#who wants to come over and eat one of my salads from the garden

[melancholyfleurs]

woke up early before work today to transplant my seedlings into their buckets on my porch in my gardener lesbian mode now that the last frost is over 👩‍🌾

[itsjunear]

Hidden feelings

Az x reader

Warnings: None, mention of loneliness, death and a little anger.

Note: Hello again! Thank you for taking the time to read me. I'm sorry if this is a disaster again, English is not my first language but I do what I can. Maybe I'll do a second part, I don't know yet. Again, thanks for reading even though I may not be very good at this.

I was listening to this song while writing this and I really loved it.

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"Was it a good idea to come today?"

I shrunk a little in my seat and swallowed hard. Of course, it had been a good idea; I was with my family. With mine, I reminded myself.

However, I couldn't help but feel a little... alone.

Rhys was in front of me, laughing at the story Feyre was telling him about one of the children attending painting classes in her studio, and Amren watched her amusedly with a glass of wine in her hand.

Cassian was at one end of the room, engrossed in listening to Nesta's account of how the Valkyries' training had gone.

And Az... the shadowsinger was chatting with Elain, who smiled sweetly at him, and she talked to him about the new flowers she was planting in the front part of the River House, in her lovely garden.

My heart squeezed a little, and I approached the window.

I gazed at the view, the lights twinkled cheerfully across the city, quite contrary to my mood. I sighed and took a sip of wine. Mor was visiting the Winter Court, so I had no one to get drunk with, even though I was very sure that anyone would have agreed to the request. They wouldn't have asked questions; they wouldn't have asked why I desperately needed to drown myself in drunkenness. They would have simply accompanied me.

But I didn't want to interrupt. I didn't want to ruin their states of... happiness.

They deserved it after all. Each one deserved whatever moments of happiness, and I didn't want to take that away from them.

I discreetly turned my gaze back to the shadowsinger, and a deep pain invaded my heart. There was no trace of Az's shadows, who was smiling at Elain in a way that felt very genuine. And she returned the gesture.  Part of me could understand it, the sweet Elain, who could resist her? She was so delicate, so kind, and she had won everyone's heart.

She wasn't to blame for any of my feelings. She wasn't to blame for my secretly being in love with the shadowsinger for over three hundred years and never having told him. That was my fault.

"Maybe you should stop looking at the window as if it were your enemy, or it will think you really hate it" Cassian joked beside me.

I turned my gaze to him and smiled slightly.

"I didn't see you at training today," said as he gently squeezed my arm as a show of affection. I shrugged, feigning indifference.

"I wasn't feeling well." Lie. I hadn't gone because it hurt to look at Az. I knew he would be there, and I... well, maybe it wasn't entirely a lie. I did feel a little unwell. Not physically, of course.

Cassian put an arm around my shoulder and looked at me with concern. "Is everything okay?"

No. Yes.

I forced a smile on my face, convincing enough not to ruin his evening. "Yes, Cass. It's nothing" I downplayed it. "A little food will cheer me up" Cassian smiled slightly, but the concern didn't vanish from his eyes.

I had never told anyone about my crush on Az. No one. And I supposed I had hidden it enough not to raise suspicions.

"Well, I'll tell them it's time to eat, or you'll get grumpy" he said. I laughed a little as I nudged Cassian lightly. Minutes later, we were all seated in the dining room.

Rhys had sat next to me, followed by Feyre "May I know why you've become so lazy that we now need to schedule an appointment to see you?" a voice spoke in my mind. I smiled without looking at Rhys as I served myself some salad. "I have a very busy schedule, High Lord" I replied aloud. Rhys raised an eyebrow, but he didn't press further.

Grateful that he didn't ask more questions, I looked up only to meet Az's eyes staring at me intently. I smiled slightly as I watched his shadows swirl behind him and coil around one of his round ears.

Okay, maybe I had been avoiding everyone a little, it's just that I didn't want to infect them with my bad mood. And I didn't want to hurt myself more by seeing Az with Elain.

The shadowsinger continued to look at me, and I furrowed my brow.

"Do I have something?" I asked.

"Aside from a bad mood, nothing" Cassian teased as I kicked him under the table before hissing. Nesta chuckled softly.

The conversation flowed slowly. Everyone conversed with everyone, and I simply listened. I enjoyed the naturalness with which Feyre laughed at a bad joke from Cassian and the way Rhys howled when Amren teased him afterward. I even enjoyed the dessert Elain had prepared, complimenting her on how delicious it had been. But I never looked at the shadowsinger. I didn't want to torture myself anymore. I didn't want to hurt my heart anymore when I thought about how much I longed to be close to him. So, for my own sake, I resisted sneaking glances at him.

Then something Rhys said caught my attention "... happened on the outskirts of an Illyrian camp. It ended in the death of four females" Horrified, I looked at him. "I didn't get any coherent or hole-free answers about what might have actually happened" anger emanated from him, from the rage that tinged his voice, I could assume he was quite frustrated with the situation. Feyre put her hand on his, trying to reassure him.

My friends deserved peace. They deserved these moments of peace. So, I didn't think twice before offering myself. "I'll go, Rhys"

"No" Az said quickly, his voice firm.

Cassian looked at him but didn't say anything, apparently in agreement.

Maybe it was anger that surged through my spine and made me act like an idiot. "I wasn't asking for permission" I spat out each word slowly.

The shadowsinger tensed as he frowned, the shadows behind him stirring. "It's very dangerous"

This time it was definitely anger boiling under my skin. I wanted to go on this mission so they could continue to be at peace, but also to get away from him. I needed a break from thinking about his eyes, from thinking that every part of him seemed beautiful to me. Even the hands he hated. "I'm old enough to make that decision" I simply said.

"I'll go with you."

I felt my whole-body tense.

"No" Az gave me a hurt look, and I regretted behaving like this, but I needed to get away. To distance him. "I can do this alone. The others need you here" I added quickly.

"Rhys" I called. He looked at me a little indecisive, debating whether to side with his brother or mine. He looked at Feyre, and I guessed they had a conversation mind to mind as they usually did when they had to make a decision.

"Alright. But you'll report every day" Feyre concluded. I smiled gratefully, and she returned the gesture, although concern also shone in her eyes.

The room filled with tension.

"She's not a spy" Az declared with a frosty look.

"Enough, Azriel" I said irritably.

Why did he insist so much on this? I was perfectly capable of doing it. I had gone on more dangerous missions and come out unscathed. This shouldn't be so complicated, and I felt that justice needed to be served for those four dead females. Cassian cleared his throat, bringing me back to reality in my seat, and I looked at Rhys with a polite smile. "I'll leave at dawn tomorrow. You'll get a report in the evening"

Rhys nodded, and dinner ended without any further incident. However, I felt the intense gaze of the shadowsinger on me for the rest of the night, until I fell asleep on the couch while some continued to drink.

In the midst of unconsciousness, I felt warm hands lift me up and a hard chest brush against my body. Drowsily, I buried my head in the crook of the neck of the one carrying me and relaxed when a familiar pine scent enveloped me. He gently laid me down on the large bed and took off my shoes almost reverently.

I might have imagined it, but I clearly felt how before leaving, he placed a kiss on my hair and closed the door, leaving me engulfed in darkness.

[abbysdruidess]

you ever see those tiktoks of ppl making to-go meals for their wives working at hospitals? i wanna do that for abby so badly 🥺 (i've seen some hcs of her being an orthopaedic surgeon and I think thats real af)

thank you for this anon<3 I was kind of in a writers block so this helped s a lot-send me more asks about my babygirl, my delightful wife.

l̳u̳n̳c̳h̳ ̳o̳f̳ ̳c̳h̳a̳m̳p̳i̳o̳n̳s̳ | modern au smut

wc: 1.3k (my longest!!)

tags: fluff, smut, domesticity, reader gets head for cooking for her wife(not that she wasn't getting it anyway), Abby eats it the whole damn thing on the kitchen counter

a/n: this is in the form of headcanons with a smut drabble in the end-lmk what you guys think<33

❦ I feel like in a modern au Abs would definitely choose a field that requires a lot of hard work(cause in the game also she overworked herself), so she's either a doctor or a construction worker(;)). I feel like she wouldn't want to choose to be a neurosurgeon like her father, bc as much as she admires his work, she doesn't want to be compared to him and she grew up with it, she wants something different. So her going into orthopaedics seems pretty reasonable.

❦ As for the lunch thing, I could totally see you making her lil lunches<3 She is careful about what she eats cause she wants maintain her muscled appearance, so she doesn't really go for the cafeteria food. Therefore, you make a habit of cooking food for the wife™️ every day. I imagine you getting one of these cute bento boxes and cook her some chicken, rice and salad the night before and set it up all cute<3

❦She'd always love it when you cook her food from your culture/country of origin also🥺because baby loved everything about you and wants to feel closer to you any chance she gets. In my country there's a lot of emphasis on fresh, unprocessed food so I imagine you growing a little garden outside your kitchen with fruits and vegetables, the works.

❦ Don't forget about dessert also-cooking a big tray of something like brownies or a batch of cookies on Sunday nights and put in on her lunch box with a note that goes like "finish your vegetables before you devour dessert!" or "eat lunch first, dear<3" . Bonus points if you kiss the note and get lipstick all over it.

❦ Maybe a coworker of hers notices one day(probably Manny cause he's the only one able to confront her about it) and goes up to her with a shit eating grin while she's eating it like "Damn doc, maybe that wife of yours can cook me up a lunch or too like yours sometime. She forgot to draw a heart on your brownies though." And normally if it was someone else she'd be pretty pissed off, because HOW DARE THEY mock the lunch her amazing, breathtaking wife worked so hard to make. But it's Manny so she knows he's just fucking around. SO Abby's like "Oh shut up Manny. You're just wish you had a girl who wants to make you lunch every day."

❦And truthfully she's extremely grateful for it, it's one of those things that reminds her why she married you, you care for her so much and cooking for her shows you look after her in one of the most vital, intimate ways possible. In the end of the week, once she comes home from work and sees you cleaning dishes in the sink, she walks up to you, leaving her little lunch box on the counter and wraps her big, beefy arms around you, while she whispers in your ear.

"I didn't thank you for lunch this week. I loved the cookies a lot.", and you can feel her breath slightly tickling your ear, the pads of her fingers toying with the hem of your shirt.

"It's alright Abs, I like making you food. You need to stay fit, big girl.", you respond, while you turn around and run your hands down her biceps.

"Hmm, thank you so much for caring about my health babe, or maybe you just like that your wife is packing such heavy guns under her shirt, huh?" she teases. You can't deny though, you love her figure. You can feel her hands on your hips as she tenderly lifts you on the counter, and you sigh happily.

"Yes Abby" you roll your eyes. "I'm soo thankful I have such a strong wife. It is quite beneficial at times.". Your hands ride up her shirt, cupping her firm, silken breasts. She exhales all wobbly, you know how sensitive her breasts are. But you know your little game won't last long.

She doesn't respond, just leans her face into yours so your noses bump and smiles. She quickly makes light work of your shirt, tossing it on the floor and goes for the button in your jeans next, as you help her by raising your hips off the counter. In one flawless motion, she has removed both your jeans and underwear, tossing them off with your shirt. Once the bare skin of your ass makes contact with the marble of the counter you shiver, and Abby brings her girthy palms to rest under your buttocks, warming up the skin there and slightly groping it.

"Lemme thank you for lunch. You are always so good to me. My pretty, little wife". She raises one of her hands and gently runs her pointer finger where your folds part, making you gasp. Your hands reach to her behind and cup her firm ass. "Alright." you whisper into her ear, as your eyes roll in the back of your head.

She then kisses a line from your jaw to your belly button, leaving sloppy, open mouth kisses where the drool from her mouth remains visible on your skin. You could only wish it would imprint on it, immortalising Abby's passionate mouth loving on your body. You shudder as you feel her delicately kissing your pussy, rubbing her tongue on your feminine lips as if she was making out with them. Her tongue teases the sensitive flesh, as the nerves in the most sensitive part of your body are abused by this wonderful, wonderful woman. You let out small, staccato moans, and your hands reach the flesh of your breasts, cupping them and toying with them deliciously. Abby continues the barrage on your cunt, licking up your clit as the room is filled with the sloppy sounds of sopping flesh.

You sit there, helpless but to take it, as you feel the coil inside you tightening up from the lovely tongue of your wife. You suddenly feels as though a band has snapped, and you are overcome with heavenly, internal bliss as your orgasm washes over you like a wave. Abby guides you through it, leaving soft kissing on your cunt and whispering "That's it baby, come like a good girl". Once it stops, you can feel her rising up to kiss you, her tongue rubbing yours in small circles as she lets you taste your salty tang.

"Mmm" you let out a soft giggle. "I'm so grateful I have such a caring attentive wife.", and she makes you gasp as she her fingers come up to your sensitive folds, dipping her hands into your hole and spreading your juices all over your inner thighs. You let out soft moans at the overstimulation but allow her to continue the assault on your cunt nonetheless, as she thumbs you clit gently, watching it twitch in between your legs.

"Damn right you are, baby. Wanna take this to the bedroom?" She leans into you and leaves a kiss on your ear lobe. "I'm not through with you yet." you don't reply just yet, because you know she still wants to have a go at you, and she will no matter what. You grumble a small yes at her as she picks you up bridal style and moves you to the bedroom, kicking your discarded clothes out of her way.

What could she say? Abby lives to please you, and you live to please her. And both of you are thankful for having each other to help whenever, whether that is with lunch and everything the other person needs.

whoaah, who wrote that🤔anyways, lmk what you guys think of it and ofc send me more asks abt Abby<33

[lulublack90]

Prompt 18 - Gymnastics

@wolfstarmicrofic August 18, word count 986

Previous part First Jegulus part

Sirius led everyone back to his and Remus’s flat. He was so excited about the BBQ. But what he was most excited about was the big bag of marshmallows he’d bought to toast over the fire. He dragged Remus by his hand to the front door and unlocked it. He inhaled deeply when they walked in. He loved his home so much. They hadn’t been here long, but it already held so many happy memories for him. 

James strode through the flat and straight out the French windows into the garden. Regulus stood a bit out of place near the front door until he followed James outside and watched him build up the fire. Sirius and Remus were terrible at starting the BBQ. Even with the easy light bags, somehow they never took. Sirius shrugged and went into the kitchen to get the food out of the fridge, ready to be cooked. 

He could hear James talking in the living room, something about the sofa being soft. Remus darted past him and poked his head around the door.

“If you break it, Potter, you’re paying for another one. Remember last time?” Sirius had to bury his face in the crook of his arm to stop them hearing his laughter. 

“Er, yeah, sorry, Moony,” James said sheepishly. Sirius could hear Regulus whispering excitedly and James’s deep voice rumbling out his excuse for breaking their sofa. They got up and Sirius couldn’t hear them any more. 

He began mixing together his secret salad dressing. It was simple but brought the otherwise bitter leaves to life. It was a recipe that Effie had given him, passed down from her mother and stolen from some friend of her mother. James wouldn’t have any other kind of dressing and was known to sneak a small bottle of it into restaurants and use that instead of whatever they had. 

He checked the steaks he’d been marinating overnight. They smelled divine, peppery and herby. They had sausages and chicken wings as well, plus loads of sides. There was no way they were going to eat it all, but Sirius didn’t mind eating the rest tomorrow. 

“Darling, did you leave you know what on the bedside table?” Remus asked matter-of-factly. Sirius paled.

“Yup,” He swallowed, but he could already hear James and Regulus coming back from that direction, so it was pointless trying to dive and roll around them with all of his teenage gymnastics skills to stop them from seeing what he’d forgotten to put away. Regulus appeared in the doorway beside James and flushed brightly when they made eye contact. “Right start taking this stuff out,” He ordered, trying to get Regulus away from him. He spun to check the dressing again and by the time he’d picked up his own plates to take outside, both Regulus and James were gone. 

“Don’t worry, my love. It could have been worse,” Remus said, stealing a kiss before he followed the others outside. 

He was so full. He could see his stomach protruding over his jeans. He wished he’d changed into his leggings, but now he didn’t want to move. He popped another toasted marshmallow into his mouth and groaned as the sweet gooey mess spread inside his mouth after he broke through the toasted skin. He pulled out his phone and started scrolling through tictok.

He was just popping another marshmallow into his mouth when his thumb froze. He was in a video. 

“WHAT THE ACTUAL!!!” He yelled at his phone as it played a video of him berating Regulus in the café from the other day. He clicked on the creator’s profile, Wormtail was their name and scrolled through. There were a lot of different people losing it in public, but the ones with the most views were of him in the café. “Who the fuck does this guy think he is?!” He cried angrily at his phone. That’s when he noticed the logo, a fat grey rat. The rat phone case man! He was going to kill him. “And I gave you an extra almond croissant you little shit! That's it he’d banned!” 

Remus’s hands found his shoulders and began pushing him into the flat. He looked around for his brother and James, but they’d gone. He had no idea when they’d disappeared, but he was more concerned with the next video that came up of Wormtail going into the back of the café to film him ranting at the toastie machines when he’d burnt his hand on one. That was crossing the line. “Remus,” He said, calmer than before, and held up the phone for Remus to see. 

“What the!” Remus was outraged now. “It clearly says, Staff Only, No Entry, Private, on the door!” His brow was furrowed in anger as he scrolled through a few more of the videos. “It’s not the first time either, look,” Sirius peered at the screen and saw himself rocking back and forth chanting. “Be nice, be nice,” The camera suddenly turned to the ceiling and bounced into the store cupboard before cutting off. “That’s right when you came and got me,” Sirius whispered. He’d been feeling so vulnerable in that moment and some guy he didn’t even know had recorded it and posted it online for likes. “Fuck,” He sobbed. Remus’s arms wrapped him in a tight warm hug.

“I’ve got you, I’ve got you,” He murmured into Sirius’s hair. 

Remus led Sirius to the bedroom, wrapping him in the duvet before going to run a bath. He took Sirius’s phone away from him and Sirius was grateful. He’d only spend the entire night watching the videos over and over, making himself feel worse. At least he had tomorrow to sort himself out. 

“Remus?” His voice was croaky and muffled from the duvet. 

“Yes, sweetheart,” Remus came back in from the bathroom and stroked his hair. 

“Can we go see Mum tomorrow?” 

Next part

[finniestoncrane]

💜🍴 Finnie's 1.5k Follower Event 🍴💚

CLOSED by health inspector

even though it felt like this took forever it really didn't because i've only been on here and writing for just over a year, and i'm so grateful that people still follow me despite my personality as a whole lmao, i wanted to do something silly and goofy so here's my prompt list for my milestone ;-; hello and welcome to the vill-inn, gotham's newest restaurant (and definitely 100% not a money-laundering front for nefarious rogue activity no sirree u-u) please come on in and peruse the menu and let us know what you want to eat!! send in your order + reader/insert gender/pronouns/genitals too! the restaurant is now closed as well as writing headcanons and drabbles, i'm also doing a little give away! so anyone who asks off anon (or not, check the specials menu below) i'll enter into a little silly draw for a 1k commission and pick 3 winners u-u 🔞minors dni🔞 • masterlist • kofi link • tag: finnie1500 (to follow or to block)

Hello, welcome to Vill-Inn, how will you be DIE-ning with us today?

Sit-In [drabbles/short fic]

Takeout [bullet-point/free form story/headcanon style]

Delivery [surprise me]

Great! Wonderful! What can I get you to drink? And don't say fear toxin! (I'm this close to quitting...) (pick 1)

Water [hurt/comfort]

Soda [angst]

Milkshake [fluff]

Signature Cocktail [smut/pwp]

Black Coffee [doesn't matter/surprise me]

And what will you be having for your MAIM course? (pick 1, feel free to specify the version)

Question Mark Shaped Nuggies [riddler]

Sushi Platter [penguin]

Pumpkin Ravioli [scarecrow]

Surf and Turf [two face]

Arroz con Pollo [bane]

Steak [victor zsasz]

Cucumber Sandwiches [mad hatter]

Garden Salad [poison ivy]

Gut Buster Burger [harley quinn]

Gazpacho [mr freeze]

Plain Noodles with Butter [john doe]

Gumbo [killer croc]

BBQ Platter [captain boomerang]

And what loyal side(kick)s are you having with that? (pick up to 4)

🍟 Regular Fries [waking up with them]

🧇 Waffle Fries [sex in a public place]

🍠 Sweet potato Fries [visiting them in Arkham/Blackgate]

➰ Curly Fries [only one bed]

🍁 Poutine [slow dancing]

🥔 Potato Skins [at a party]

🍕 Pizza Bites [tending to wounds]

🍗 Chicken Wings [confession/confessing feelings]

🍔 Sliders [exacting revenge]

🌭 Mini Dogs [hate/angry sex]

🍤 Popcorn Shrimp [hugs from behind]

🐔 Chicken Strips [oral sex/how they give and receive]

🍿 Cheese Popcorn [bite marks/marking kink]

🥒 Deep Fried Pickles [sloppy kisses]

🧅 Blooming Onion [being rejected]

🍘 Rice Crackers [choking]

🍞 Bread Rolls [blood play]

🧄 Garlic Bread [straddling]

🥖 Breadsticks [neck/wrist kisses]

🥪 Half Sandwich [giving/receiving praise]

🥣 Soup [argument]

🍜 Noodles [cuddles]

🍚 Steamed Rice [denial]

🦪 Oysters [rough sex]

🍣 Sushi Sampler [edging/orgasm denial]

🌽 Corn on the Cob [instructional masturbation]

🥕 Honey Glazed Carrots ["open your mouth"]

🥗 Green Salad ["do you need a hand?"]

🍅 Tomato Salad ["i have to go"]

🍏 Fruit Salad ["i shouldn't have to ask"]

🍆 Roasted Veg ["i've never done this before"]

🥦 Seared Broccoli ["i hate you"]

🧀 Cheese Platter ["it's too late"]

🍖 Meat Plate ["i've never wanted anything more"]

🍄 Sauteed Mushrooms ["do you want it rough or gentle?"]

🥑 Guacamole ["please don't leave"]

🥜 Toasted Peanuts ["i want to hear you"]

🥓 Bacon Bits ["i didn't say stop"]

💚 Specials Menu 💚

I'm Here For A Blind Date [tell me a bit about yourself and i'll do a character pairing for who you're having lunch with]

Can I Get A Seat At the Buffet? [i don't have an idea/want to ask off anon, but i want to be included in the draw - this message won't be answered]

thanks for visiting, and please feel free to tip your wait staff 💜

[writingjourney]

Hi! I’ve had this thought swirling in my head for days and I HAVE to share before I go nuts with Secondo taking over 😂 I went to a bbq recently and all I could think of is all the Papas, ghouls and “Seestor”hosting one amongst themselves, and they’re allowed a plus one ofc, so Secondo takes you. He’s acting like his usual bitter old man self…and then gets jealous when others start staring at you, getting worse when you have your swimwear, and then he just ends up sitting you on his lap for a while. 🏃🏼‍♀️

Thank you for infesting my brain with this and activating my Secondo brain rot 😭

I wish I had the capacity rn to write a full thing for this but just... I need to add a little bit to it (under the read more bc I got carried away, gender-neutral reader):

I can imagine Secondo being the one who actually does the barbecueing and prepares the food or at least he quickly finds himself alone because everyone else acts like they don't know how to do it and besides, Terzo already brought the potato salad and there just isn't enough space in front of the grills for more than one person anyway, you know?

He'd mildly grumble about it but actually he enjoys taking care of everyone, feeling important and showing off his skills. At first you stay by his side even though you don't know how to help, he's very particular about how he does things, just so he's not all alone. However, you're quickly distracted by Terzo and the ghouls who are passing the time until dinner is ready by playing volleyball and doing all kinds of pool shenanigans. They get you to join and you soon find yourself laughing and giggling as they splash you with water or throw their beach balls at you.

At first Secondo is incredibly glad that you blend in so seamlessly, that no one even bats an eye at the fact that you're there with him and that they respect you as part of the family. But then the ghouls and ghoulettes get a little too comfy with you, a little too touchy, staring a little too hard at you in your scarce swimwear. He knows there is no reason to be jealous, he trusts you completely and he's not insecure when it comes to your love. The reason he gets jealous is that he finds himself wishing that he could be the one to make you laugh like this. Who brings out this carefree side of you and who holds you close while the cool water softly sways around you.

This quickly leads to him missing your company and wanting to be close to you and he's quite over this barbecue all of a sudden but of course he can't let the food burn, neither does he want to spoil your fun when he knows he's just being silly, so he just watches from afar and observes the situation. He only snaps out of it when Terzo shows up and asks him if he plans to serve any ghoul meat tonight because the intensity of his death stares surely has to be lethal.

Secondo only relaxes when you all sit down to eat and he finds himself right beside you again. His hand never leaves your thigh, it's actually quite impressive how he manages to eat a whole steak using just one hand. You praise his food of course, as do the others, and his mood improves – well, right until dinner is over and the ghouls and ghoulettes already try to drag you off again. This time, he's having none of it and the moment your butt leaves the garden chair you find yourself pulled back by two strong hands that wrap around your waist. He pulls you right into his lap, firm hands on your front pushing you into his groin as his lips press to your neck in a wet kiss. You can't help but chuckle because you know exactly what prompted it and you don't mind spending time with your love after all the excitement from earlier. You place your hands on his, engaging in the conversation he's falling into with his brothers. There's certainly worse things than sitting in Secondo's lap for the rest of the night ♡

[moonbeamwritings]

As fun as the holidays may be, they require a lot of work. Running errands, preparing food, decorating, wrapping presents — the to-do list never seems to end. Nanami often regards the season as a second job for you both, only professing to enjoy the quiet moments of the season. The ones where you’re wrapped up on the couch, shielding yourselves from the cold and enjoying each other’s company.

So when you invite him to your aunt and uncle’s annual holiday party, he expects it’ll be fun, a chance to meet your extended family and spend time with you, eating good food and unwinding after a hectic season. But you can’t seem to escape obligations, even at the party.

You introduce him to your family members with a bright, proud smile. The kind of smile that makes Nanami’s heart stutter in his chest, but much to his dismay, it doesn't last long. Instead of spending the evening by his side, you’re beckoned into the kitchen, and if the roll of your eyes is anything to go by, you’re not exactly thrilled. You huff and tell Nanami to keep an eye on your wine glass as you hike the sleeves of your sweater up your forearms and join your mother and aunt in the kitchen, gone before he can even say a word.

He watches you float through the kitchen like a butterfly flutters through a garden, stopping in front of the oven and lingering there for only a moment before moving back towards the sink. There and back again. Sometimes you weave through the bodies to drop dishes or desserts onto the tables in the other room, but you always come back to the counter — right in Nanami’s line of sight. You talk to your relatives as you work, but despite the smile on your face, Nanami can tell you’re displeased, so, like any good boyfriend would do; he joins you.

You’re at the kitchen counter, putting a pasta dish onto a pot holder, desperately trying not to let stress consume you, when Nanami comes up behind you. His hand ghosts over your waist as he mumbles in your ear, “You need help, sweetheart? What can I do?”

“No, Kento, honey, go sit. My great-aunt has been dying to meet you.” You peer over his shoulder to investigate the commotion at the front door. “I think she just got here.”

He moves you away from the counter with a gentle hand on the curve of your hip. Once you’re out of his way, he rolls the sleeves of his crisp white dress shirt up to his elbows. “I can’t really enjoy the party without you, love. Let me help.”

“Honey, please, go enjoy. I promise it’s fine.” You sound a bit defeated (a tinge annoyed, too), but Nanami holds his ground. He can feel the stress and irritation coming off of you in waves (you’re the only cousin helping, after all), and knows that, just as he said, he won’t be able to relax until you can.

He pulls the salad bowl and its tongs into his hold. “I want to,” Nanami’s voice is quiet as his thumb works a slow circle into your hip. “Many hands make light work, right?”

You sigh and tilt your head up to kiss his jaw, whispering a thank you against the skin there.

You’re a dynamic duo, making short work of the menial tasks that need to be done. You pull the food from the oven or the cabinets, and hand them off to Nanami who shuttles them to the dinner table like precious cargo. And each time he enters the kitchen, Nanami drops a warm, comforting palm onto the small of your back — always asking what next, what now. And with every check-in, you can feel the stress working its way out of your shoulders. You feel like you can breathe again.

When Nanami makes one last trip to the dining room, a pot of soup in hand, your aunt fixes you with a smile. Her hip bumps into yours as she nudges her head in his direction. “You better keep him around, sweetie. We could use him next year,” she teases with a wink. Her arm loops around your shoulders as she continues, more serious this time. “He’s a good one.”

You wipe your hands on a dish towel, and stop to watch as Nanami greets your great-aunt in the other room, stooping low to press a friendly, chaste kiss to her cheek. They must start talking about you because he turns to glance at you over his shoulder, a twinkle in his eyes as he meets your gaze. You can’t help the grin that pulls at your lips.

“Yeah,” you say, cheeks warm and heart full. “He is.”

[mi-rae07]

Song Mingi : Burning Desire S2 (Part 2/3)

Pairing : Song Mingi (Ateez) and named character (Moon Aeri)

_____________________________

Aeri : so what's the plan then?

Mingi : oh, I was going to leave all that up to you actually.

Aeri took a bite of her dinner with a look, mingi smiling as he said

Mingi : okay fine. Well, I have intel as to where han's moved himself and the rest of his army to. And I also know that san does not live at the camp there, he's somewhere else.

Aeri : somewhere else?

Mingi : mhmm, any guesses as to where that is?

Aeri : wherever his daughter is, definitely.

Mingi : bingo. So you're getting yourself there, and I'm sure you are capable of killing a few tens of soldiers, your majesty?

Aeri smirked, having a bite of her salad as she said

Aeri : most definitely.

Mingi : the guards there will be less, as less as it could get because he'll want less people to know about his daughter. You kill them without san noticing, get in to his room without his daughter noticing, take your time with him saying whatever, kill him off with a hidden weapon and then get out.

Aeri : sounds easy. Do I have backup?

Mingi : yes, me.

Aeri stared at mingi as he had a bite of his chicken nonchalantly. Oh he was really trusting her with this.

Aeri : seriously?

Mingi : very.

Aeri : and uh, what's your plan? With han?

Mingi : lure him out of the camp by saying that you've got yourself lost in the woods.

Aeri : me? You're dragging me in there too?

Mingi : that's the only way he'll come alone, your majesty. He thinks low of women-

Aeri : doesn't everyone?

Mingi cleared his throat as he said

Mingi : yes and that's what I want to exploit. He's going to come into the woods alone, so that he can get his hands on you easily. He believes you to be weak, so he won't warn anyone. But instead of you, he'll find me. I'll kill him, and bring his head to the camp with all my men. Anyone who fights against, we'll have them killed. But seeing as their loyalty lies with san and not han, they won't do much. They'll be happy they avoided war.

Aeri : and when they realize that I killed san?

Mingi : I'll have all the men killed before that.

Aeri hummed, taking another bite of her food as she said

Aeri : sounds fine.

Mingi : thank you, I try.

Aeri smiled as she continued eating, mingi letting out a breath as he kept his fork down before asking

Mingi : why do you not eat meat?

Aeri : in order to not kill animals. I believe every innocent living being has the right to live, including animals. Hunting them for food, takes them away from their loved ones. Animals have emotions too.

Aeri looked up as mingi suddenly stood up from his seat, walking over to aeri as he sat on the seat next to her. Aeri frowned in confusion as mingi said

Mingi : feed me.

Aeri : the…salad?

Mingi : yes, I want to taste it.

No one had ever eaten the food she had had, no one had even bothered asking aeri why she ate only veg. Aeri sighed as she brought a spoon full of fruits to mingi, him eating it with a small hum.

Aeri : is it good?

Mingi smiled as he turned towards the maids that were standing away from them before saying

Mingi : I will have only plant-based foods from now, no meat shall ever sit on this table ever again. That is an order.

Aeri's eyes widened as the maids bowed, mingi turning back to look at her as she said

Aeri : mingi no, you love meat-

Mingi : I love you more. And if you're going to have no meat, then neither will I.

Aeri : but-

Mingi : shh, I've made my decision. Now give me more of that salad.

___________________________

A day later :

Mina looked around the palace gardens as she used the small candle light to navigate herself through the thick bushes, heading towards where han had asked her to meet through a secret letter few hours ago. Mina knew this was wrong, but what had been written in the letter did not allow her to make her own choices. The life of her children were in that cruel man's hands.

Han : so you've come.

Mina paused on her tracks as she turned around, han stepping out of the bushes as he walked close to her. Mina pressed her lips together as she asked

Mina : what do you want?

Han : I need you to do something.

Mina : what is it?

Han pulled out a vial filled with purple liquid from his pocket as he held it out for mina to take before saying

Han : it's poison, more like sleeping pills though. Put this on the empress' dinner plate the day after tomorrow, and I shall leave your children alone.

Mina : what is it going to do to her? Is it going to kill her?

Han : oh of course not, I still have uses for her, not her dead body. It's only going to force her to sleep throughout the full night, without any of her senses intact. She's going to be fine the next day.

Mina looked at the vial for a few seconds before letting out a breath, taking it from han's hand before pushing it inside her pocket.

Mina : fine, consider the job done. But if anything happens to my children, I'm going to kill you myself.

Han smiled as mina walked away, her eyes worried and tense. Han scoffed as he mumbled under his breath

Han : as if anyone can.

___________________________

A day later :

Aeri opened the door to mingi's study, her eyes falling on mingi whose head was rested against the table, his eyes closed and a cold cup of coffee lying next to him. Aeri sighed as she closed the door behind her, walking towards mingi as she stared at him. And unknowingly her hand went to his messy hair, slowly smoothening it down as mingi hummed in his sleep, unconsciously moving closer to her hand.

And even then aeri did not take it away, the feeling of his silky hair on her hand almost bringing her comfort. That was until mingi opened his eyes, aeri quickly taking her hand away as she stepped back. Mingi blinked his eyes as he looked up, his eyes still hazy and sleepy as he mumbled

Mingi : aeri?

Her name was definitely meant only for him to say it.

Aeri : sleeping like this is going to cause you neck pain, and tomorrow is an important day. Sleep on the bed.

Mingi smiled as he sat straight before asking

Mingi : are you worried for me, your majesty?

Aeri rolled her eyes as she said

Aeri : having you die tomorrow because you can't move your neck around would cause too much unwanted stress for me. And stress causes hair fall, so, no, I am not worried for you I am worried for my hair.

Mingi chuckled as he said

Mingi : I'm worried too.

Aeri : about your hair?

Mingi : about you. I…it's not that I don't trust you but now that I think about it all, I'm scared.

Aeri : scared of what?

Mingi : of losing you tomorrow. What if something goes wrong and san does something to you? Maybe I should've just let you stay safe in the palace while I go out and fight the war.

Aeri : you told me I was the empress, mingi. And that this was my nation as well. Then I will fight the war for it too, I will not let you do it alone.

Mingi sighed, taking a paper from his desk as he held it out for aeri to hold before saying

Mingi : my will.

Aeri : your…will? Mingi you aren't 65-

Mingi : if I die tomorrow, during the war, you'll need written proof to show others that I hand my kingdom over to you completely, right? That's what this is.

Aeri : you won't die tomorrow.

Mingi : one can never be too sure.

Aeri took the paper from mingi before throwing it onto the fire that was burning in the fireplace, her eyes still focused on mingi as he stared at the now burning paper with wide eyes

Aeri : you cannot die tomorrow, mingi. You have to come back to me, that is an order.

Mingi looked up at aeri as he said, a glint of despair in his eyes

Mingi : so you could just send me away from China after a few days? Never to return? What difference would it make for you if I died tomorrow, your majesty? Wouldn't it bring you more profit considering that you would get Korea too all for yourself.

Aeri stared at mingi, wondering whether to just say it. Say that she didn't care about either China or Korea anymore. But she wouldn't say it, not until he came back tomorrow.

Aeri : you want an answer? Then try not to die tomorrow.

Mingi : what? What is that supposed to mean-

Aeri : stop writing stupid wills and come back to bed, mingi. The nation needs you tomorrow.

__________________________

Mingi let out a breath as he turned back around in the bed for the tenth time that night, opening his eyes in annoyance as it landed on aeri who was fast alseep beside him. Mingi sat up against his arm as he stared at her, realizing how beautiful his wife really was. Men must throw themselves under his feet and worship her, mingi thought. How did someone like him get someone like her? Someone so scarred and dirty, did he really deserve someone as divine and pure as her?

Aeri : can't sleep?

Mingi flinched as he moved back, lying back on the bed as he whispered

Mingi : I'm fine, you can go back to sleep.

Aeri sighed at his words, sitting up straight on the bed as she said

Aeri : come to me.

Mingi stared up at aeri, her back rested against the headboard as he stared at her in confusion and shock

Mingi : w-what?

Aeri : I said come to me, mingi.

Mingi let out a breath as he moved closer to aeri, resting his head on her lap as aeri's hand came up to his hair. Mingi's body lay tense against hers, his breathing uneven as aeri slowly started running her hand along his hair. Oh, how mingi had missed this. The pain and torture he could go through to just have a single second of this moment from her.

Aeri : I'm doing this for my own benefit, so that you get proper rest to fight tomorrow. Now stop acting up and go to sleep.

Mingi pressed his lips together as he closed his eyes, aeri's hands slowly running over his hair as mingi felt his body ease up. He'd never felt this before, never felt so much at peace. And slowly mingi felt himself fall deeper into sleep, the last thing he felt being a kiss on his forehead. But he probably dreamt that, didn't he?

__________________________

It had been mingi's idea to strike at night, he believed it was the better time to make sure both san and han were in their hideouts, and better for hiding as well. Aeri had agreed to it. So she was now riding her horse to the intersection where she'd have to continue by herself, mingi riding on another horse beside her. His eyes were alert as he looked around, the 100 other soldiers riding behind them as well.

Aeri had eaten as little as possible for dinner tonight in order to make sure she doesn't overfill herself, it would affect her stealth. But for some reason she felt heavy, nonetheless she pushed it away. Now was not the time.

Mingi : we're approaching the intersection.

Aeri looked forward as she realized they were, which meant it was now time for the both of them to separate. It was time for aeri to save her nation. Aeri slowed her horse as they stopped in front of the intersection, mingi looking at her as he said

Mingi : you know what to do if something goes wrong, right?

Aeri : mhmm. Abandon the mission and run.

Mingi : you aren't going to do that though, are you?

Aeri smiled, looking around as she whispered

Aeri : I don't have to take orders from you.

Mingi sighed, bringing his hand to the back of his neck as he unclasped the necklace that had always hung around it. Aeri had wondered if it meant so much to him but she'd never asked. Mingi handed it out for aeri to hold as he said

Mingi : it was my mother's wedding necklace, it is the only thing I have left of her. I want you to have it now. It has always protected me, and today, I hope it could protect you.

Aeri took the necklace from him before clasping it around her neck, looking at mingi before saying

Aeri : you come back to me, alright? We're going to celebrate the win of our nation, together.

Mingi smiled as he said

Mingi : I will try.

Aeri gave mingi one last look before turning her horse around, galloping away from them. Mingi stared as the back of aeri's top flew against the wind, her wedding ring still gleaming against the moonlight. And in that moment mingi prayed for the first time to any god out there. Not for him, but for the love of his life. If he were to die today, he'd die happily knowing that she was safe. He'd make sure of it.

_________________________

Aeri sneaked into the mansion after having just killed a dozen men or so, their blood having stained the edge of her long top as she climbed the stairs carefully. The mansion was dead silent, and she'd seen only one room that had been lit up in the entire place from far away. That was where san would be, his daughter would've been asleep by now.

Aeri looked around the first floor hallway as she realized this was probably where his daughter slept, considering that the entire hallway was decorated in the way girls would like. Dollhouses lying everywhere with pretty pink bows stuck all over the wall. Glass made kitchen sets and pearl jewellery lying here and there. The life aeri had always wanted but never got.

She climbed to the next floor as she walked through the hallways, small sounds now being heard as she neared the room that had light coming from it's door gap. Aeri let out a breath as she knocked on it, footsteps coming closer to her before the door was opened.

San : what the hell?

Aeri : we meet again.

San stared at aeri, his eyes going to the blood that had stained her dress before saying

San : you killed my men.

Aeri : so we get to meet.

San paused as aeri pushed herself inside, holding san by the collar as she kissed him. She knew what this would do to san, or any man for that matter. A hard and deep kiss with the right eyes was all it would take for aeri to have san distracted. Then she can kill him off.

San tensed under her as she pulled back a few seconds later, breathing heavily against san's lips. Aeri felt nothing, as she never did with anyone else other than with mingi. With him it was all sparks, but with san she felt empty, as if kissing him was a chore.

San : what…you have a husband, your majesty.

Aeri : I did last time too.

San : but he wasn't song mingi.

Aeri : what difference does song mingi make?

Aeri could sense the slight fear in san's eyes, that was the power mingi held.

San : do you love him?

Aeri chuckled, feeling more heavy headed that ever as she said

Aeri : love? I love no one. Now give me what I came here for, what I killed for.

San let out a breath as he kissed her, closing his eyes as he pushed aeri against the wall. And while san was deep into kissing her, completely distracted and unaware, aeri brought one of her hand to her thigh, pulling out the knife that was wrapped around it as she brought it closer to san. But just then she felt her eyes droop, her body feeling weak as her grip on the knife loosened, making it fall down with a clatter.

San suddenly stepped back at the sound, his widened eyes looking at the knife as aeri fell onto her knees. She felt too sleepy, what was this? Why did…no. no no poison.

San : you were going to kill me.

Aeri gasped as she looked up at san, him smiling in part relief as he said

San : did you really think you could, hmm? Did you think I was that stupid?

Such arrogance, if it wasn't for the poison he'd be dead by now.

Aeri : h-how. How-

San : I bought your bestfriend off, love.

Mina, she'd slipped it in her food. No one else was allowed to touch aeri's food after the tester.

Aeri fell onto the floor as she felt her eyes slowly close, the last thing she heard being san's laugh as he said

San : next time you awake, you're going to be in hell, moon aeri.

_______________________

Mingi had been at the forest clearing for hours now, already having sent han the message that aeri was lost in the woods, disguising as one of han's own soldiers whom mingi had killed. Mingi had waited and waited after that, expecting han to come any minute. But now it was almost dawn, and mingi was sure this plan had failed. Something somehwere had gone wrong, and it had to be aeri.

And so mingi had gotten up to his horse, riding towards san's manor as his soldiers followed him. But as he neared the place he saw the thousands of men that were standing outside, indicating that han was here. Something had definitely gone wrong, aeri was now in trouble.

??? : my lord, I think we should turn back. There are too many men to tackle.

If mingi turned back and went to the palace it would be the safer option for him, because this was a death trap. But if he turned and left, that would mean the end of aeri. He knew han, he knew the things he'd do with women, and mingi was sure san was no different. Mingi had vowed to protect his wife's dignity at an cost, even if it were at the cost of his own life. He wouldn't let another man touch his wife.

Mingi : my wife is inside that manor, soldier. I will not go back without her.

Before the soldier could say anything more mingi rode faster towards the manor, the enemy soldiers swarming around mingi and his men as he said, not a single waver in his voice

Mingi : lead me to your king, I will come alone.

??? : but your majesty-

Mingi : you will stay outside, soldiers. It is an order.

Mingi jumped off his horse as a group of ten men surrounded him with swords in their hands, slowly leading him inside the manor. They had expected him, mingi was sure of it by now.

Mingi soon reached a well decorated room as one of the soldiers pushed him inside, mingi's eyes landing on aeri who was tied to a chair, san and han standing in front of her with their backs turned to him. Aeri's eyes widened as she looked at mingi before saying

Aeri : mingi.

San and han turned around at that, a smile appearing on both their faces as han said

Han : I told you, mingi, that I would always be one step ahead of you.

Aeri : he bought mina off, she poisoned my food.

Mingi clenched his jaw, looking at san as he said

Mingi : do you really want this, to side with a brother you know is only going to ruin your kingdom?

Han : you little-

San : what are you trying to say?

Mingi : that I am giving you a choice. Either you stay with han and end your own line, ruin your dynasty. Or you side with me and get to keep both the crown, and your head.

San scoffed in disbelief as he said

San : you're standing in front of me, powerless with no men to back you up and your wife at my mercy. And you still think you're capable of all that?

Of course, mingi would have to accept defeat now. He would have to pretend. But san was stupid for thinking he would forever stay defeated. And so he smiled, looking at san as he said

Mingi : look at me, do you really think there is anything that I am not capable of?

Han growled as he walked forward, punching mingi in the face as his head turned to the side. Aeri let out a breath as san quickly brought his sword to her neck, pressing the edge against it as han said

Han : your rule, is done, song mingi. If you lift so much as a hand against us, we will have that bitch killed.

Aeri : let them kill me then, mingi. Go back to the palace.

Mingi looked at aeri who seemed to be almost sure mingi would go back. She still didn't think she had so much value, and she was wrong. Aeri flinched as mingi dropped his royal sword onto the floor, san looking surprised at that. A king dropped his royal sword only once, and that was when he accepted defeat.

Aeri : n-no. no mingi-

Han : kneel.

Aeri's eyes widened as she looked at mingi, she was sure mingi had never kneeled in his life. Mingi stared right at aeri as he kneeled down, a smirk on han's face as he looked at san before saying

Han : get the cuffs.

Mingi : before that I need you to promise me something, and I know you are a man of your words.

Han hummed as mingi looked at him before saying

Mingi : promise me that you will provide my wife with everything and anything she needs in this world until the moment you die. You will listen to all her wishes, never act against her words, protect her with your life, and treat her like the empress she is.

Aeri looked like someone had just punched her.

Aeri : mingi.

Han chuckled as he said to san who threw the metal cuffs at han

Han : I told you he loved her, san.

San : your wife will remain as the empress of China until she dies, I will make sure of it. Right, han?

Han : of course, we have no need for her anyway. She can stay in the palace for all I care. But you, you will no longer walk on this Earth.

Aeri : mingi, you can still leave-

Mingi : I don't want to.

Aeri stared as mingi brought both his hands forward, han chuckling as he wrapped the metal cuffs around it. The satisfaction in his face angered mingi, but he had to lay low for now.

Han : look at the great and mighty ruler of China and Korea, the man no one could even touch. Kneeling on the ground for some woman now, are we?

Mingi : she is not some woman, she is my wife.

Han : oh really. She no longer will be once I have you killed.

Han smiled as san untied aeri's ropes, her standing up as han tugged on mingi's metal cuffs in order to make him stand as he said

Han : she's going to sit in the palanquin arranged for her, since you said you'd want her treated as the empress she is, and san and I are going to ride the horses. You, however, will walk behind us on foot. These cuffs will be attatched to my horse's back.

Aeri clenched her fists. This was humiliation, it was mingi's biggest fear. Was he really…was he really going to go through all of this just for her? Mingi chuckled as he stood up before muttering

Mingi : so original.

Han frowned as mingi walked forward, tugging hard at the cuff as han jerked forward because of his hold on it. He looked like he could kill mingi any second now.

San : the ego still remains.

_______________________________

[fizzingwizard]

something I hear Sims Youtubers say sometimes which is 100% so untrue for me:

"the Sims gets boring because you use cheats to give them money and keep their needs high. you remove the challenge when you cheat these things away and that's why you're bored"

totally my personal opinion but for me it is the exact opposite. Having to constantly worry about money in the game is what's boring. Going to a rabbit hole job, or an active career full of repetitive, meaningless tasks in order to be able to make garden salad for dinner is boring. Not having the funds to buy gameplay objects is boring, because I like variety, not watching my Sim "read a random book" for the fifteenth time today.

Sims becoming Uncomfortable every two minutes because of how fast their needs drain makes me feel like a bad parent, lol, which I know is unreasonable but it's true! I don't enjoy grumpy sims. I like them to be any other emotion than Uncomfortable. "it's part of the challenge" but it's NOT challenging - the fixes for this is usually very very simple, just eat some food! - i mean realistic but still frustrating.

It's also that... like, avoiding cheats does NOT make the game more challenging if you have even a vague sense of what to do. Because if your sim is in the wrong emotional state, all you gotta do is light some incense. Sick? Drink some green tea, no need to go to the doctor. So many of the "challenges" in the game are alleviated almost as easily without cheats as with. On top of that, they don't even feel like challenges! Again, they're mostly small, repetitive, and meaningless. There's no sense of accomplishment because I made sure my sim got to the toilet before they peed on themself. Besides, they'll surely almost wet themself again soon. (And if I happen to be in a public venue where people are constantly talking and my sim can't extricate themself from the "chat" queue in a timely manner, even my best efforts won't save their underwear! Hmm, you know what works in that scenario? TELEPORT CHEAT.)

I have tried playing rags to riches with no cheats. I didn't quit because it was too hard. (I play on long life span, aka easy mode lol!) I quit because I was BORED TO TEARS. The minute I made my sims millionaires and bought them every skill-building activity there is, I was having a lot more fun, because watching nonexistent simulated people go to sleep, use the bathroom, eat, go to work, complain about low needs, go to sleep, use the bathroom, eat, go to work OVER and OVER and OVER again is NOT FUN. I've watched rags to riches let's plays where after "beating" the challenge, the player just continued playing as a rich sim! Like they didn't suddenly get bored and go "gee I wanna be poor again, let's donate everything to charity and start over."

So yeah I have no doubt some people love rags to riches and maybe there really are some players who eschew cheats no matter what. But that is noooot going to cut it for me, not ever. Not with this game. The one thing that makes Sims 4 still playable for me is variety and that's why I don't want packs like Lovestruck, which, come on guys, it's just new dressing to gameplay that already exists. I like packs that actually bring new activities and new goals and skills. I like packs (rare as they are) that expand on existing activities, like when Island Living gave us new fish to catch and the ability to build on waterfront lots (which is STILL stupidly restricted to Sulani, WHY). I like the silliness of Cottage Living's obsidian chicken. I like watching my sims wipeout on the snowboard. And climbing Mt Komorebi, while IMO actually not challenging enough (because I beat it at level 5/6 - without cheats I should mention - when the max is 10 but there's no greater challenge from there so I haven't been motivated to finish building the skill).

I do NOT like rabbit holes or endlessly grumpy sims or ugly houses or repetitive gameplay. My sims are always traveling and always doing something new. I literally gave my sims family infinite money just so I could move them to a different lot every other week and build them a new house so I'll have something new to look at. (btw I used to struggle because I'd set these lots as generic, since you can't own multiple homes, but then they would be invaded by townies... I've since learned that if you set your McMansion to "national park," no one will bother you at all bahahahaha!)

yeah anyway. Sims 4 play styles are as diverse as humans. I don't envy the Sims team the job of trying to engage as many of us as possible lol. But I do think, for me at least, it's relatively simple: 1) add something new, 2) let it look good (gawd those fugly eyelashes!), 3) let it FUNCTION PROPERLY. don't make it too complicated okay. Don't make, for example, a Finchwick fair in which only one guy besides my sim will participate, and somehow his "normal" quality apple pie wins over my "excellent" quality one lol. Multiple times I might add x'D (But also don't make a mountain that can be successfully summited at level 5 but the rock climbing skill has 10 levels)

[peonierose]

Neon Lights

Pairing: Bryce Lahela (M!MC) x Luna Auclair (F!OC)

Words: 4,000+

Summary: Luna, Bryce and the Open Heart gang go mini golfing. Who will win?

Rating: General

A/N: Thanks to @annieruok94 for pre-reading and @doriopenheart for helping me with the fry puns 🧡

Side note: I’m participating in the @choicesficwriterscreations Holiday Event I was inspired by midnight kiss as well as @choicesdecember2022 Day 7 ”Middle of the Night“

Bryce

It’s Saturday. It’s a beautiful day in Honolulu, Hawaii. Warm and sunny exactly what the doctor ordered. I smile.

We opened the door leading out into the garden. A fresh ocean breeze is wafting inside the kitchen. I breathe in the scent and my body instantly calms down. Moving to Honolulu was the best decision we’ve ever made.

I look over at Luna who’s standing barefoot in the kitchen.

Luna and I are at home making breakfast and listening to DNCE song kissing strangers.

It’s my favorite time of the day. To make some breakfast. Well, Luna is making breakfast I’m just eating.

Damn, I have to put in some time at the gym. Maybe I can convince Luna to come with me. I laugh at that as I put my arms around Luna who leans into me.

Luna puts the stove off and I help her to put the food on the table outside in the garden.

“Don’t eat all the goods,“ Luna squats my hand away as I steal some bacon.

“Why? I can see only one snack and the job is taken,“ I say and Luna just shakes her head at me.

“You’re unbelievable you know that?“ she says and throws a napkin at me.

“You mean I’m unbelievably attractive? I know thanks,“ I say and Luna just laughs.

“And so humble too. I hope you won’t be too disappointed when I beat your very attractive ass later at minigolf,“ she says eating some bacon and we share some of her fruit salad.

I stop putting fruit on my plate and I eye her grinning.

“Really? And how will you do that? You usually lose. Sorry I love you Lu but you’re bad at bowling and I don’t think you’re going to beat me at mini golf,“ I say and eat some pineapple.

“You’re so sweet when you think you’re the only one who can win. I was gonna share a secret talent with orange soda, but I don’t know since I’m not going to win maybe another time,“ she says and I know she’s teasing but now I want to know more.

“You’re such a tease,“ I point my mango piece at her and she snatches it up with her mouth.

“Hey I was going to eat that,“ I say and grab another piece.

“Looks like you lost,“ she winks and chews on the mango piece.

I eye Luna from across the table as we eat in silence.

“Is it okay that Aubrey is coming along?“ I ask hesitantly since Luna and Aubrey, one of my fellow surgeon colleagues at Kuakini Medical Center, haven’t had the greatest start.

Luna shrugs.

“I’d like to get to know her. I mean she seemed pretty nice a few months ago when we had that pinktober event at the university,“ Luna says.

“She’s an exceptional surgeon. She’s giving me a run for my money. I know she’s had some personal problems that she’s dealing with. She can be bitchy but she usually doesn’t mean it.“ I say and catch Luna's hand in mine when her hand starts tapping on the table and drawing circles on the back of her hand. She smiles softly at me. Her green dress with daisies glowing with her.

“Before you ask I’m not saying this because I have any romantic feelings. I respect her a lot as a person and as a surgeon. I just think you’ve had a rocky start that’s all,“ I say and she grins.

“I think so too. I’d love to get to know her. I think she’s great. Maybe she’ll beat you at mini golf too,“ she says and I roll my eyes making Luna laugh.

Luna

There’s nothing more relaxing than going mini golfing with friends. And even better? It’s blacklight mini golf. How amazing is that? This is going to be great I can already tell.

Everyone is here at this super cool blacklight mini golf place called Glow Putt right here in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Everyone is here. Ethan and Hayley. My triplet cousins Evie, Soraya, and Skyler.

Elijah, Jackie, Sienna, and Tobias.

Rafael and Kyra couldn’t make it. Rafael had to work and Kyra said she had a date, which I’m super curious about. Can’t wait for the details. When it comes to dates? Kyra always has great stories to tell.

Our newest friends Aubrey and Meilani are here too. They both work with Bryce at the Kuakini Medical Center.

Aubrey dressed in a jade green flowy dress.

Aubrey is a surgeon just like Bryce.

Meilani dressed in a yellow, floral print silk dress, that ends a bit above the knees and some floral crochet sandals.

Meiliani is also my OB/GYN, she’s great. She and Sor hit it off ever since they first met. I can tell they’re great together.

Aubrey? I’m not so sure about her. But maybe she’s nice. Deep down. I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt. It’s never cool to judge someone, based on one time you’ve met them. Maybe you’ve met them when they had a bad day.

I smile as I lean into Bryce and don’t feel guilty for totally inhaling the scent of his shirt. He bought a new cologne recently because his old one was too much for me. Certain smells affect me a lot more now that I’m pregnant.

I play with Bryce’s hands as we‘re standing together by one of the holes.

The dark room is illuminated by vibrant neon colors, such as lemon, lime green, hot pink, aqua blue, electric orange, and vibrant purple.

The art is amazing. Whole scenes from the jungle and the deep blue ocean world are painted onto the walls and the floor. I think this could become my new favorite place.

I look around and see everyone in their little groups hanging out talking and laughing. I smile.

My cousins Evie, Sky, and Soraya are leaning on their golf clubs, all three of them opted for jeans, though Soraya and Evie both wear colorful blouses, while Sky is wearing one of his Hawaii shirts.

Tobias stands next to them in a white shirt and dark jeans. He must be telling a joke since all three of my cousins are hollering with laughter.

When I look further to my left I see Hayley in her lavender dress leaning into Ethan who’s wearing a grey shirt and dark blue jeans.

He smiles at Hayley. It’s a rare occasion for Ethan to smile, but it’s always nice to see.

Meilani and Aubrey joined in on the fun of playing blacklight minigolf, after their shift. Just to let out some steam after a long day at work.

Jackie, Sienna, Elijah, and Aurora are joking about a patient who got naked whenever someone entered his room. Jackie in her metallic dress and sneakers, is teasing Sienna that he’s got the hots for her. I caught the name Lucas and smiled.

Adam who stands next to Maxi with his hands in his jeans pockets and a dark olive green shirt smiles at Maxi. Maxi stands next to him and is wearing one of her cut-off jeans shorts and a super lacy camisole. She’s smiling and whispering something to Adam. Looks like things are looking up for those two. I’m excited to see my girl happy.

She catches me staring at them and grins. I blow her a kiss and she laughs out loud.

Keiki couldn’t make it since she had to study for her finals for December, but said to send pics of how her brother embarrasses himself. I will deliver embarrassing pics of Bryce.

”Are we going to stand around like a bunch of weirdos or are we going to play golf? Because that’s the sole reason we came here right? To have some fun and to show that surgeons can win at mini golf,“ I hear Aubrey say and everyone looks at her.

Ethan raises his eyebrows at her words.

Tobias's voice comes from beside my cousins.

”Well since you and Bryce are the only surgeons here I don’t know how you think you’ll win,“ Tobias just grins his green eye sparkling in the dim light.

Aubrey just smiles at him. Her face is saying ”Game on.“

I grin and look between them. I clear my throat.

Everyone shifts around and it becomes an awkward silence, while everyone introduces themselves.

Well, our group of friends is getting bigger and it’s nice if we know each other.

After that, we stand around not sure what to say next. Should we play or how do we go about it? Honestly, I’m not someone who’s at a loss for words but this time around? I feel a bit nervous and anxious.

Bryce takes my hand in his to help me and I grin thankfully at him. Skin-to-skin contact helps me with my anxiety.

I gnaw on my lip and try to think of something to say when Jackie breaks the silence and asks no one in particular.

”How about girls vs boys?“ she looks around.

”I wanted to be on Ethan’s team,“ I pout a bit disappointed.

Bryce bristles.

”Wait what? I thought we were a team?“ he asks.

Everyone chuckles.

”Looks like your woman showed you up Lahela,“ Tobias comments.

”Oh please I’ve won against Luna a couple of times,“ Bryce comments.

I smirk at B, lean into him and whisper.

”We’re always a team babe. Especially in bed…“ I whisper and leave the sentence hanging in the air. He just smirks.

”I can play dirty if that’s what you want. It’s my favorite,“ he says suggestively and I laugh much to the groaning of everyone else.

”Get a room,“ Ethan and Aubrey say at the same time.

Bryce and I grin and share a smile.

”Is it just me? Or does anyone else think this is creepy?“ Elijah asks and I add.

”Me too. They’re almost the same person. Though Ethan is a bit grumpier, which makes him adorable,“ I say and Sienna nods in my direction.

”I thought I was the only one who thought so,“ she says and we fist-bump each other.

Ethan sighs deeply.

”Can we please just play? I don’t want to have front-row seats for Lahela's make-out session. I’m getting annoyed by this banter and about the fact that you’re trying to make it about me,“ he says his tone getting grumpy.

Bryce can’t resist adding.

”Oh come on man you’d learn a thing or two,“ B adds.

Ethan just sighs.

”If you’re talking about tips on how to make out? I’ll pass. Thanks though,“ Ethan replies.

Hayley leans over and gives his stubbled cheek a light kiss.

”We love you grumpy and all,“ she says and keeps going.

”Though you’re right let’s play some minigolf. So I can finally beat your ass at something Ramsey,“ she says and earns hollers and laughs from everyone.

”Careful Rookie,“ a slight glint in his deep blue eyes.

She winks at him.

”Don’t you mean Valentine-Ramsey? Also if I act out you can just punish me later,“ she says and grins.

Jackie says loud enough for everyone in our group to hear.

”This is why I don’t like to spend time with Hayley and Ethan. They always talk about their sex life. Which is creepy,“ she says.

Hayley turns around.

”We can talk about yours,“ she says saucily.

Jackie laughs.

”You couldn’t stomach mine,“ she says and winks.

We all laugh.

Soraya chimes in.

”I think Jackie’s idea of girls vs. boys wasn’t so bad. We can wipe the floor with the guys,“ she says earning a high-five from Aubrey who decided to join in on the fun.

”Real talk. Let’s get started,“ Bryce says.

I’m still bummed I don’t get to be on Ethan’s team.

He sees my face and asks.

”Why don’t we mix it up a bit,“ Ethan asks, and everyone boos at him.

Bryce looks at me and says.

”Sure if you want to lose, let Luna be on your team,“ he teases.

I gasp and squint my eyes at my fiancé. Bryce comes back to kiss me, and my lips still tingle from our kiss even after the kiss ended. I smile.

Then he goes back to stand with the guys. The others laugh.

”Scared of losing Ramsey?“ Aurora asks her eyes twinkling.

Ethan smiles and shrugs.

”Have it your way. So what’s the losing team got to do?“ he asks and nobody has an answer to that.

”I’ve got it. Two words. Skinny dipping, huh?“ Sky asks.

Evie and Soraya say at the same time.

”Gross Sky. I don’t want to be scarred for life,“ they say shuddering both.

He sighs.

”Fine. Fair enough,“ he says.

”Why doesn’t the losing team just buy a round for the winning team?“ Sienna suggests.

We all nod and agree that that’s probably the best idea.

After we started playing I stand to the side and lean on my golf club. Just to breathe for a second.

Bryce puts his hands on my belly.

”Are you sure this isn’t too much for you? You’ve been up since early this morning,“ he asks concern lacing his every word.

”Is it weird that I find it hot that you’re concerned? But seriously I’m fine. The light breeze is doing wonders for me. The heat before was a bit much, to be honest,“ I say.

He puts a hand over my forehead. When he’s satisfied he takes his hand away.

Then he checks my pulse.

”Your pulse is a little high,“ he says.

”It’s because you’re standing next to me. Your beauty blinds me,“ I say teasing him.

He leans closer and pulls me behind a tree, out of sight of the others.

I can hear someone ask but can’t make out the voice too invested in Bryce‘s touch to care who asked.

”Where are Luna and Bryce?“

Sky laughs.

”They’re making out behind that tree,“ he laughs louder when heads turn in our direction.

”Just ignore them,“ he says smiling.

Bryce grins against my lips and we lean more into the shadows. Obscured from the view of the others. I just hope this tree won’t fall.

Evie says loud enough for me to hear.

”Let’s move to the next hole. They’ll catch up,“ she says.

I can hear someone making a dirty joke about the word hole, but too far into Bryce putting my right leg over his hip and kissing his way down my throat.

”I feel bad for making out when we’re supposed to spend time with our friends and family,“ I say gnawing on my lip.

He kisses me again and every thought of guilt flies out the window. We stand like that for what seems like an eternity.

Before we both smile and just decide to go back to the game. Lacing our fingers together.

”How are the guys already in the lead? The game just started!“ I say sadly to see that the guys lead and well the girls got a bit behind.

”I don’t care I’ve already won,“ he says kissing our interlaced fingers.

I look at him.

”How so?“ I ask totally confused.

”Because I got to lock lips with my favorite person,“ he says.

”Glad we could spend some time together. Though we were making out for some time and the girls got behind,“ I say.

Bryce laughs.

”Oh you and the others can still catch up,“ he grins.

”Oh? So you think you already got this huh? Nice try Lahela,“ I say and we join the others.

The make-out session was great, but I do want to play mini golf. That’s what we came here to do.

I’m standing together with Meilani, while Bryce is lining up his shot.

She whispers.

”Damn. I’m into women. But holy damn. Bryce? You’re a lucky woman,“ she says pointing with the putt in Bryce’s direction while watching Soraya laugh about a joke Sienna made.

I sigh while I watch him. His muscles move as he pulls up his shirt to dab away at some sweat on his brow.

I grin looking at his abs, which you can see from here. Feeling a little guilty, since I don’t love him just for his body. His mind is just as beautiful. But I can’t help checking him out. Who would fault me for that? He’s hot. I grin.

”It’s cruel that he looks this good. Though I guess you’re swooning over Sor,“ I grin and earn a chuckle from Meilani.

I get serious and dart a glance toward Meilani.

”By the way can I ask you something?“ I say not able to look her in the eye.

Meilani turns my way. Directing her whole attention to me. Giving me a sense of tranquility with her easygoing smile and the calmness I always feel when I’m around her. She’s the quiet to my inner storm.

She has a very excitable and bubbly personality similar to my own, but when it comes down to it. She’s very zen-like.

”Of course. What’s up,“ she asks. Playing with her bracelet. I look closely and see she’s wearing a yellow, floral print silk dress, that ends a bit above the knees and some floral crochet sandals. I like it it’s very Meilani.

I bite my lip, feeling super uncomfortable asking this.

”Do you think it’s normal, to be this turned on all the time?“ I ask her.

I’m probably looking as red as a fire hydrant. Sometimes I still get embarrassed when I ask certain questions.

She smiles and puts her hand on my arms.

”Your hormones are all over the place. It’s completely normal to want to have sex,“ she says and continues.

”You’re 7 months pregnant. But if you’re worried about hurting the babies, you don’t need to worry. They don’t mind it actually, studies have shown that babies get more relaxed and calm,“ she says and I gape at her.

”What? No way,“ I say sounding disbelieving.

She pats my shoulder.

”Trust me. The babies don’t mind. Just be careful not to be too rough. No experimental positions. I can give you a list of safe positions,“ she asks.

I blush furiously.

”Isn’t this convo weird?“ I ask.

She hugs me from the side.

”Not at all. I’m your doctor and your friend so it’s all good. We are friends right?“ she asks hesitantly.

I kiss her on her cheek.

”Of course you are. I’m glad we met,“ I say.

”Me too. I’ll send you that list,“ she says and walks off toward Soraya.

I nod and walk over to Bryce. I hug him and he pulls me close.

”There you are sunshine,“ he says giving me a soft kiss on my temple.

I tear up at the word sunshine.

He smiles and tucks me into him and I mumble something incoherent that probably sounded something like

”Love boo“.

”Love you too,“ he says kissing me once more before we walk towards the others.

I smile at Bryce and say to him.

”Want to know a secret?“ I ask him and he leans closer to me.

”You give the best hugs,“ I say and add ”With and without clothes,“ I say and he laughs out loud throwing his head back.

The others turn to us but when they see Bryce laughing so hard they start grinning too.

”Want to share with the class Lahela?“ Tobias asks and the others snicker.

He shakes his head at Tobias. And grins at me.

”Nope. This is not for your guy's ears,“ he says and gives me another kiss pulling me towards him and taking my cheeks into his warm, calloused hands.

They‘re all laughing and teasing each other. Having a great time.

”Oh, man. That doesn’t count. You cheated Sor. You guys saw that right? I can’t be the only one,“ Sky says.

I look over at the hole where Soraya's golf ball went into.

”Looks like the ball went through,“ I say and earn a grin from Soraya.

Sienna joins in.

”Yeah. Totally. Maybe you can learn a thing or two from us. So you wouldn’t miss all the time,“ she says and grins.

Sky throws up his hands.

”Everyone is ganging up on me,“ Sky complains.

Soraya laughs.

”Because you’re an easy target that we all love,“ she says grinning at him.

Ethan is the next who is lining up his shot.

“You better not miss Ramsey,“ Tobias says and gets a nod from Elijah and Sky.

Ethan just shakes his head.

“You guys are worse than interns,“ he says and the ball goes inside the hole.

Sky and Tobias run to him to hug him and Ethan is sandwiched between them. You can tell he feels uncomfortable.

Hayley just takes a pic.

She sees me and winks. Oh, this will definitely be sent to our group chat.

“See the guys are in the lead again,“ Sky says and grins at Ethan like they won some championship. I chuckle. I love my cousin.

“Okay okay enough with the hugs,“ Ethan sighs and when I see his mouth quirk up at the corners I can tell he wants to rile Sky up a bit. I grin and shake my head at Ethan.

“The girls can still win you know?“ Ethan points out and lets Hayley take the next one.

“Oh come on why ruin your win from a couple of seconds ago?“ Sky asks and glares at Ethan.

“I’m just stating a fact,“ Ethan replies grinning.

Hayley scores too and I can hear the guys groan.

Hayley gets a high-five from Sienna.

Ethan is right, we can still win this.

An hour later…

Luna

The boys lost to the girls.

I’m sitting down at the table of a restaurant we chose. I love the Christmas decorations they’ve put up. It’s very Hawaiian and tropical. Christmas songs are playing through the speakers.

So we picked a restaurant to celebrate at. One that isn’t too far away.

I love this place. Whenever we want to relax we come here. They have great food and them staff here is so nice and welcoming.

We choose a table that can actually seat all of us. Bryce and Sky went to take the first drinks with help from the other guys.

I’m sitting down and looking at the menu to decide what to order. I can feel like someone is standing next to my seat and when I look up I find a pair of brown eyes looking at me with uncertainty in their depths.

It’s Aubrey. We didn’t exactly get on from the start, but maybe we can talk and see if we’ve both just had a bad day.

“Is this seat taken?“ she asks hesitating to sit next to me.

I shake my head and make room for her.

“Just so you know? If I have to pee? Girl you’ll have to get up,“ I say and she grins.

“Deal,“ she says and an awkward silence settles around us.

I gnaw on my lip trying to think of something to say and to sort of break the ice, but Aubrey speaks first.

“I’m sorry I’ve been a bitch a couple of months ago when we met at the hospital. I’ve had a bad day, which is no excuse, but I wasn’t nice and I know you’re an awesome woman. At least what Bryce has said about you. He talks about you all the time by the way,“ she smiles and it transforms her seemingly cold demeanor to warm and friendly.

Like coming home from the cold and nestling in front of the fireplace to get warm.

”You’re right you were a bit bitchy. But I wasn’t nice either. It was that day I found out I was pregnant,“ I say nibbling on my upper lip.

Aubrey raises her eyebrows in surprise.

”Really? And here I go making a bad impression. To be honest I wanted you to like me. I’ve heard so many good things about you. From Bryce and Meilani,“ she smiles.

I grin at her. Feeling that this is the start of a new friendship.

I see Bryce and the other guys walk back to the table to put the drink orders down. And some of the food that’s ready. The other food orders aren’t done yet.

He keeps darting glances at me and Aubrey.

”Is it safe? Did you guys make up? Because I‘d hate it if it got awkward for all of us. No offense babe,“ he says and kisses me on the top of my head.

Someone throws a fry at me. When I look up I see that it’s by Aubrey.

”That was frying cute,“ I can’t resist adding while Bryce sits next to me and laughs silently.

Aubrey just rolls her eyes at me.

I grin even wider. Making her laugh will be a fun, new mission to have.

”God. You’re as bad with puns as Lahela is.“

Bryce looks up from the menu and frowns.

”Hey!“ he exclaims.

I lean into him and direct my attention toward Aubrey.

I point said throwing fry at Aubrey and take a bite.

”Don’t be such a fry-baby,“ I say not running out of fry puns.

The crispness and the saltiness of the fry give me almost an orgasm. But I tone it down since I’m in public.

Bryce snickers from the side. I wink at him.

Aubrey looks at us. Narrowing her eyes at me.

”You’re doing this on purpose aren’t you? I knew I should’ve ordered something stronger tonight. I’ll be right back,“ she says and is gone to get herself something stronger.

I lean into Bryce and when the rest of the food gets to the table I sigh with happiness. Food makes everything better.

Luna

Later that night I’m lying in bed next to Bryce. The door to our balcony is open to let in the moonlight shining into our bedroom.

I get up and check if Bryce woke up but he doesn’t even stir. Poor baby must be exhausted.

I smile and sit outside in one of the dark grey wicker armchairs and just look out at the ocean.

I lean back in the chair and hug my knees tight to my body. That’s when I feel a sudden kick. I look down and put my hand on my belly to see if it’ll happen again and when it does I get so excited. Oh my gosh. I feel tears running down my face. Who would’ve thought I’d have this life someday?

To be in a great relationship, be engaged, soon I’ll be married and two little ones running around the house.

I walk back into our bedroom and lie down next to B. I gently try and wake him up and when he does, he sees me smiling and raises an eyebrow.

”What?“ he asks half-asleep already.

I take his hand in mine and guide it to my stomach. Hoping the twins might kick again.

When they do he opens his eyes and I can tell he’s fully awake.

”Did that just happen?“ he asks his voice full of wonder.

I just nod and moves further down to put both of his hands on my stomach. He waits for a few heartbeats but when the kick doesn’t happen again he sighs, though he still smiles softly.

”I wanted to feel it again,“ he says sounding sad.

”They’re not circus performers. Though that would be so cool,” I say.

He grins at me.

“I love all these new memories we’re making together.”

Bryce kisses me softly and I lean into him.

We both smile at each other sharing this beautiful moment. Just us and no one else.

This right here is where I belong.

[cricketcampbell]

BIOGRAPHY • MUSINGS • INTERACTIONS

character name: cricket james campbell

nickname: chef, bug (by her mom)

age & dob: november 14, 1997 (26)

gender identity & pronouns: female, she/her/hers

sexual orientation & relationship status: bisexual, single

residential area: ocean crest apartments

occupation: personal chef

place of birth: tuscon, arizona

length of time in aurora bay: two years (as of jan 2024)

personality traits: + audacious, - naive

faceclaim: rachel sennott

FAMILY.

mother: libby campbell

father: unknown

siblings: mavis campbell

cousins: atlas nolan, scottie nolan

TL;DR.

tw power dynamic

grew up on the road at the whims of her generally unstable mother, who never could quite manage to settle down in one place...until she did, with a man who had no idea that she had children and essentially left cricket in the dust. after a nannying gig gone wrong (affair with her boss), realized her passion for taking care of people through food, and attended culinary school in california, where she returned after a brief european stint over two years ago to work as a local personal chef!

HEADCANONS.

is fully convinced that miley cyrus and hannah montana are, in fact, two entirely separate people and will not be accepting any criticism on her theory!

diet coke fiend, her go to caffeine fix more than anything else

sometimes lies just for fun, a habit she picked up in her childhood, especially when she knew she wouldn't be sticking around somewhere for long--not usually about anything major, just a little something to keep it interesting

only got her first cellphone a few years back but caught on very quickly; doesn't quite understand twitter yet but is fully addicted to tiktok and has recently started posting little day in my life as a personal chef videos as a sort of online journal

has absolutely zero clue who her birth father is and never bothered to ask, but thinks her middle name could maybe possibly be a homage to him

cooking for others is her love language but when it comes to feeding herself, it's either strictly the basics (kraft mac & cheese, pb&j, cup noodles) or she's ordering takeout! definitely pays for dashpass

recently adopted a street cat she's named caesar (after the salad ofc)

despite the lack of stability, the one thing her mom was serious about was school, so through a combination of both in person and homeschooling, cricket did get a high school diploma, and even managed to graduate early

personal chef is her main gig, but does offer a less expensive meal prepping service for some extra cash!

has a finsta @friendswholunch where she posts little photo dumps of pics she snaps of her friends when they go out/come over to eat! not only to document good meals but also good company 🫶

started and runs a cookbook of the month club! basically everyone chooses a different recipe to recreate from the same cookbook and then all meet up on the 3rd saturday of the month for a cute little potluck 🤭

CURRENT CONNECTIONS.

younger half-sister of @maviscampbell

ocean crest mommy issues club founding members with @finnbrooks

her recipe tester guinea pig/not so reluctant sous @aidenxstevens

forever hiding from their awful third roomie with @lorelailewis

ex-girlfriend of @mackmontgomery

the older brother she (probably) never had @buddywellls

co-club head and dinner party coordinator for @samucl-kane's community garden

wants @paxton-brady's mom to adopt her

culinary school pals/used to run a pop up restaurant out of @solaadisa's apartment

london friends with @luckylewis

work besties to reg besties pipeline @helenasoarcs

@santiagodeleons used to date her mom

cool older sister vibes @thegillyxliang

cousin of @atlasnolan and @scottienolan

if @ravirussell has zero haters it’s because cricket’s dead!!!

WANTED CONNECTIONS.

clients (either personal chef or meal prepping)

someone who she sometimes enlists as a sous chef

blasts from the pasts from her time on the road/abroad

stable influence(s)

roomies

somewhat recent ex

someone (or someones!) she'd consider to be her best friend(s)

members of her cookbook club or the community garden!

someone she's decided to lie to for fun and it's just spiraled from there

friends who've had a falling out/frenemies/enemies

party/drinking/smoking friends

fans of her tik tok

neighbors

fwbs/one night stands/tinder dates

@aurorabayaesthetic

[tinyshe]

GARDEN REPORT 23.04.15

Spring has burst forth and is sprinting towards Summer -- a relay race of the Seasons is in full GO mode.

The hot beds shrinkage is amazing. I have never had a compost pile work and drop so fast. Simply amazing as it is reduced to half its original size in a month.

Seeding (pots and plots): yellow pear toms, German heirloom tom Riesentraube, sweet cherry peppers, some small sugar pumpkins, courgette/zucs called black beauties, tagetes, Sophia marigolds; scarlet globe radish, deer tongue lettuce, prizehead lettuce,dill, dutch corn salade, Jericho lettuce, roman chamomile; and in little poppers under a dome I thought I would try to grow some rhubarb from seed.

Vermiculture bins are producing well. Every garden should have a little worm farm on the back stoop.

Hens are older, a little less in the egg production but there is usually an egg a day, some times three but usually average two a day. We have enough eggs for what we are eating right now plus enough to share with an elder every other week by gifting a dozen. They produced some very fine material for the hot beds (soiled coop fir shavings and soiled meadow grass/wheat straw from aviary floor). The grass is coming off in the front garden so they are happy to have a more steady supply of fresh greens (instead of our left overs, alfalfa pellets or tips off the walking kale).

Flowers are starting with forget-me-nots, coral bells, camellias, tulips, Hyacinth, scillia, yellow pompom thingies =     Kerria Japonica Pleniflora , vincas, violets, calendula (orange ones), calla lilies, some of the potted geraniums (but they be sad). Strangely enough (or not) the roses are still quiet ... I did give them a great pruning so there is new growth. I purchased some harebell and poppy seeds I want to plant for my brother. He lives far away but we exchange flower photos through emails.

The fruit trees are about middling of their bloom cycle. I haven’t seen too many bees in the back but the rosemary hedge out front is alive with buzzing buddies. They just love that rosemary hedge. It is long blooming so I know they appreciate it. I’m hoping by the time the raspberries start blooming that someone -- honey bee or bumble bee or any pollinator at this point (!) shows up. The yellow rasp are looking mighty good but the tays and red rasp, not so much. Its time to rejuvenate those beds.

I did move the artichokes out of the main bed in the veg patch and put them over by the chicken coop. They just take up too much prime space for what they produce.

Hoping in the coming weeks to move out the potted roses for the rose tunnel out at Kat’s and that will give me back my walk way.

Planning on battling the bamboo or in reality, finding someone who will be my champion and take on slaying my foe. Do not put bamboo in the garden, straight in the ground! Even clumping bamboo runs! I don’t know what the previous owners were thinking (not) ...

[d0nutzgg]

Vegetarian Breakfast Recipes

So for those who don't know @emoryvalentine14 (my wife) is vegetarian, and I am not but we respect each other's food choices because we love each other very much.

When Taylor first came to my house, she was used to only eating Knorr Butter Noodles and canned corn and green beans. It honestly, was quite tragic. For those who don't know her story, she comes from a very abusive household and has a mother who is a drug addict. I may post a post about that later. Her mother essentially starved her for 25 years of her life and right now she is only 97lbs (she has gained 4lbs since September which I am very proud of her because autistic beans don't always grow like they should because of food OCD basically)

Anyways, she was terrified of eating new things because of her OCD about textures and tastes so I made her a deal: if you try a bite and don't like it I will never cook it again.

In my teen years I had been a die-hard vegan for 5 years, and so I had a bit of background in cooking vegan (and later vegetarian). I decided I would make it my mission to make her good & healthy vegetarian food.

Fast-forward a few months now from September and she is now trying new things without fussing, up to eating all sorts of good and healthy foods, and raves about how great a cook I am lol.

I would like to share some of her favorite recipes since Valentine's Day just passed!

Breakfast

Vegetarian Bagel with Swiss, Ripe Olives, Sliced Tomato, and Parsley

The picture above at the top of this post is the physical version of this recipe. Tay decided she loves fresh tomatoes but her favorite things are what she calls "toasties."

I try to cook her a good toasty breakfast every morning and this recipe is as follows:

1 slice of fresh roma tomato (thick cut) 1 toasted plain bagel 1 slice swiss cheese 3 - 4 sprigs of fresh Parsley (chopped) 1 small handful of ripe sliced olives (black olives) (optional) 1 or 2 sliced mushrooms (optional) 1 teaspoon / tablespoon of Parmesan Ranch (optional) black pepper to taste on tomato slices To start off I toast the bagel, then I layer it with all the ingredients (washing the parsley and mushrooms very good), and pop it into the microwave for about 30 seconds to melt the cheese and warm the veggies slightly. Then if she wants the Parmesan ranch, I put a small amount on the top bagel (spread it). She also occasionally likes adding some black pepper to taste on the tomatoes.

Lunch

Taylor is a huge fan of salads so one of her favorites right now is fruity salads with her Parmesan ranch lol.

Berry-Delightful Garden Salad

This beautiful salad features fresh blackberries and blueberries, a few sliced / cubed apples, and a lot of cheese which is Taylor's favorite.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup blackberries, fresh 1/4 cup blueberries, fresh 2 cups of Garden Salad blend with carrots and red cabbage 1 handful of toasted almonds 1/4 cup feta cheese 1 handful of mozzarella cheese (skim) 1 teaspoon of grated parmesan Parmesan Ranch or Avocado Ranch to taste (optional) cubed Hass Avocados

Preparation:

Wash everything, then put the garden salad in, the berries in, and the almonds in, layer it with the cheeses, put some cubed Avocados in, and then top with ranch to taste.

Dinner

Gardein Chick'n Tender Sandwich

This is Tay's new favorite dinner. I cooked her this for Valentine's Day and she absolutely loves the vegan tenders on it.

Ingredients:

4 Gardein Vegan Chick'n Tenders 2 slices of Roma Tomatoes 1 handful of Feta Cheese 1 slice of Swiss 1 teaspoon of Parmesan Ranch 2 Kings Hawaiian Buns

Recipe:

Cook the tenders how it says on the bag. We like the oven method because it makes them crunchy. Wash the tomato, slice it. Spread Parmesan ranch over toasted King's Hawaiian buns, then put the cheeses down, the tomatoes, and then put the chicken tenders on it when they're done. Really I just flip the sandwich because it's easier, otherwise the ingredients are hard to layer.

Conclusion

If you like the recipes I mentioned, feel free to ask for more. I may be posting quite a bit including what we spoil our cats with which is recipes I make for them (that are kitty friendly!). Hint: plain Prosciutto, string mozzarella, and Friskies is delicious to them. (I make it into kitty prosciutto wraps!)

Thanks :D also I love you @emoryvalentine14

[hauntingthechateau]

Saturday November 18th

Cold and drizzling with a couple downpours, high of 10 low of 4

Got up at regular time and headed straight to the Chateau to grab an early breakfast. The last of the sunrise was coming down so despite the damp I sat outside and enjoyed the beautiful misty morning. Dusty came and sat with/on me for a while and gave me a brief fight when he decided my braid might be a cat toy. I did my journaling on my phone while I waited for our ride to Troyes.

A pleasant train in (about 50 minutes) and I read a book on it. Arrived and as I walked away from the train station I fell more and more in love with Troyes! It looked at first like a typical french town, but then the closer you got to the old centre, there were old half timber houses everywhere! I zoomed my way to see the three main churches first Église Sainte-Madeleine, Basilique Saint-Urbain and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul. Sainte-Madeleine had a beautiful 16th century rood screen that was just magnificent! Sadly, even though all these churches were built in the 13th century, they don't really have any medieval art in them 😔 Saint-Pierre did have a room of relics and treasures, some medieval, but very few. I think for medieval sightseeing, Italy is still definitely the place to go.

Hit the Hôtel de Vauluisant before lunch (things close for lunch here), a small public history museum with some 16th century paintings, sculpture and stained glass, and then the second half of the museum dedicated for Troyes having been the Hosiery manufactory capital of France for a good while. Small museum, didn't take too long in it.

Headed to the Reulles des Chats next and AHHHHHH its all just cute I just want to live in this part of town and weave through all the adorable little alleyways and eat the wonderful food and AHHHHH I love it here! Met up with Genna for lunch and ran into Claudio who joined us. Chose a place in advanced knowing it has ample outdoor dining. Had a wonderful beef tartare provençal with goat cheese and herbs and a side of shoestring fries and a beer. Really perfect lunch, we parted ways and went off to do more of our own things.

Maison de l'Outil was up next for me, a large 1550s half timber residence and garden that has been turned into a museum of handtools! Really interesting concept for a museum and the displays were GORGEOUS, I only wish they were a little better labeled (although nothing was older than 1600, so whatever). Nothing was in English so I was using google lens to translate everything which drained my phone, so by the end of the museum I was just looking at things. Pretty to look at though and a nice building to boot!

Wandered around for a bit before heading to a bar to sit down, enjoy a beer and charge my phone before it was time to go back to the train. Eve joined me near the end and we headed back to the station together, where we ran into everyone else.

Train ride back was quiet and quick, made it back home to the Chateau around 6:30 where we loitered until dinnertime.

It was Missy's birthday today, so tonight we celebrate!!! For dinner lasagne, green salad, chickpea and avocado salad and cabbage, orange and hazlenut salad. I ate sooo much salad, but that lasagna is the real star, the bechamel sauce and the meat sauce don't fuck around and the pasta is thick and chewy and tastes fresh 🖤 For dessert of course we had cake!! Tonight a beautiful three chocolate mouse cake with a crispy wafer layer that was just FANTASTIC! Straight from the patisserie this one! I sat with Missy at dinner and talked and talked and talked well after dinner. Chef Lorine caught me mooning over the plate and sent me home with a couple slices for a midnight snack 😈

Walked home with my cake and had a good read before bed. 10/10 day. Face hurts from smiling.

[prettiestcowgirl]

I walked to the little Italian market down the street from my house to get gluten free pasta and homemade sauce for my best friend and I. I made chicken Parmesan from scratch; I breaded the chicken and hand grated the mozzarella. I also made a side salad with the kale from my garden, a little spring mix, and a handmade Italian dressing. We cleaned up together and then went to a party in the city. I was invited by the DJ because I cut his hair. I made him look like the Gallagher brothers.

I brought my friend some of my leftovers for her dinner and then we all drank and danced to the dj sets. I scored a Korean cigarette and a camel crush. I had two ciders. I had a bathroom meeting and multiple hugs. There were two bjorks at the party.

Before I left, one of my friends stopped me and said, “this whole house loves you, I told them you’re into music and they want you to come hang out and make stuff with them,” we then started to make plans to have a big dinner together. I thought the idea of a dinner was very coincidental; food has been the meeting place between me and my loved ones recently.

My childhood best friend stayed over the night before because she was fighting with her boyfriend; I made her roasted chicken with fried onions, herbed rice, and corn. She said that she’s been sad, that she hasn’t been eating, yet it was the best meal she’s had in awhile. She doesn’t know, but I think I’m going to start bringing her lunches to her job so she eats during the day.

My roommates and I bond over food. One night they lured me downstairs to eat chocolate covered strawberries and drink white wine and we ended up talking for awhile at the table. We decided to make plans to go see a movie together. We’re not very close, but we like to cross paths every so often.

Dad, i wish you could see me now. I feel like you had a part in it. The child pays for the sins of the father, but then you left earth and took all of my pains with you. I like to think my life unexpectedly flowering after you died had something to do with your spirit being released into the unknown.

I talked a lot about you today. You loved cooking. I thought of you while I salted and oiled my water for the spaghetti. I told my best friend about how you’d make pasta and sausages with peppers for dinner when I was in high school. You’d make us dip bread into the sauce while you cooked and we’d scoop up little plates of olive oil and rosemary as appetizers. You’d finish the night with a big bowl of fruit and we’d watch tv until we fell asleep. Sometimes I remember you so softly it strikes my body like a punch.

I miss you. I love you. I wish you could see how much I’ve changed in such a short amount of time. I drink more, which I think you’d like (lol), and I’m a lot more…expressive.

You always said that my older brother took your boldness, but I embodied the parts of you that were shy and nervous. You said that he talked and planned and dreamed out loud while I always stayed quiet and listened. I’ve been speaking up, dad, especially when I want something. I think a shard of you broke off inside of my heart somewhere. If you had to go so I could carry you with me in my manner, then thank you. I like who I am becoming. Thank you.

[thehungrykat1]

Yurakuen in Diamond Hotel Offers Eat-All-You-Can Yakiniku

Ever since I first experienced Yurakuen’s Teppanyaki Eat-All-You-Can at Diamond Hotel Philippines, I have always wanted to come back for their premium seafood and meat dishes. Surprisingly, I just found out that Yurakuen also has a Yakiniku Eat-All-You-Can promotion, where guests can grill their own food at the specialized Yakiniku tables over Japanese charcoal. That’s why I was so excited to visit Diamond Hotel last week to try this delicious option for myself.

Yurakuen is Diamond Hotel’s award-winning Japanese restaurant located at the ground floor, just past its equally elegant lobby lounge. This dining oasis is one of the prettiest places you can find in the city, even with all the newer hotels and resorts that have opened. I always marvel at its three-story high floor-to-ceiling glass windows illuminating the iconic glass cherry blossom tree in the center.

The teppanyaki grills are usually what diners go for when they visit Yurakuen (Read: Teppanyaki All You Can at Yurakuen in Diamond Hotel). This is where you have your own personal chef who cooks in front of you on a teppan table.

However, there is also a separate area nearby which offers a different dining experience altogether. The Yakiniku Eat-All-You-Can is available daily at the Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant for only P3,580 net per person. Here, you can grill your own meats and seafood instead of watching the chefs do it for you. This is not just your usual yakiniku or samgyupsal buffet, because it comes with premium dishes and ingredients that you won’t find in other cheaper alternatives.

Guests can order as much as they want from the Yakiniku Menu which also comes with other Japanese appetizers, salads and soups. It also includes a round of standard drinks.

Diamond Hotel’s Japanese MasterChef Hiroshi Masuda personally welcomed us to Yurakuen as we were all excited to begin our yakiniku adventure.

But before we fired up the grills, the Yakiniku all-you-can-eat experience starts off with a variety of appetizers that would definitely entice your palate. I ordered some Crab Stick Salad for myself but you can also try the Wakame Seaweed Salad or the Garden Salad.

I also had some warm Miso Soup for my starters. They also offer Egg Soup and Seaweed Soup to whet your appetite.

Now this is my type of appetizer! This Japanese platter comes with fresh Tuna and Salmon Sushi and Sashimi plus Crab Sticks, Ebi Tempura Roll and California Roll. Other appetizers you can order include Kimchi, Dilis Tsukudani, Pickled Vegetables, and Peanuts.

Each guest can order 1 round of standard drinks including Japanese beer, soda, and juices.

Now it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get ready to grill these unlimited servings of premium seafood, meat and vegetables. The tabletop grills use Japanese charcoal for cooking. This is really much better than the typical electric or portable grills used at other restaurants because you can taste the smokiness of the dishes.

We started with a seafood platter consisting of U.S. Scallops, Squid, Shrimp, Salmon. Just put the items on the hot grill and let it cook according to your preference. The plump and juicy scallops were really good, as well as the fresh shrimps and tender salmon.

Carnivores will love to have these meaty items on the grill. There’s Pork Belly, Beef Rib Eye, Beef Top Striploin, Beef Short Ribs, Baby Lamb Chops, and Chicken on the Yakiniku menu.

I really enjoyed having my own Surf anf Turf options. It’s so easy so cook these and I can eat and order as much as like.

Don’t forget about the vegetables and make sure to include some mushrooms, pumpkin, onions, and sweet potato as well. All these meats and seafood go down better with a bowl of their Seafood Fried Rice.

There were so many meats to choose from but I just had to try them all. The ribeye steak was my favorite, especially when paired with the shrimp. You will definitely not find these premium meats at other all you can eat restaurants.

It’s great when you have a seat mate who loves to cook, because all I had to so was to eat everything on the table. Finally, after all that grilling, we ended our yakiniku adventure with some cool desserts such as Seasonal Fresh Fruits and Ice Cream.

We would like to thank Ms. Melanie Samonte for hosting our yakiniku group and always taking care of us whenever we visit Diamond Hotel. The Yakiniku All-You-Can-Eat at Yurakuen is truly one of the most premium and luxurious dining offers in the city that you should not miss. I’ll definitely be back here soon!

Yurakuen

G/F Diamond Hotel, Roxas Boulavard cor Dr. J. Quintos Street, Manila

8528-3000

www.diamondhotel.com

www.facebook.com/diamondhotelphilippines