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chhedadry123 · 1 year

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What are the top 10 snack foods?

Written By- Chhedadryfruits

Are you looking for some delicious and satisfying snack options? Well, look no further! We've scoured the grocery store shelves and taste-tested dozens of treats to bring you our top 10 favorite snack foods. From sweet to savory, crunchy to chewy, these snacks are sure to satisfy any craving. So sit back, grab a snack (or three), and let's dive into the list Best Snacks home delivery near me!

Potato Chips

Potato chips are a type of snack food made from thinly sliced potatoes that have been fried or baked. They are often served with dipping sauces or used as a topping on other dishes. Potato chips are one of the most popular snacks in the world and are typically high in fat and calories.

Candy

Candy is one of the most popular snack foods in the world. There are thousands of different types of candy, and new ones are being created all the time. Candy is made from sugar or chocolate, and can be flavored with fruits, nuts, spices, or other ingredients. Candy is a great snack because it satisfies your sweet tooth and can give you a quick energy boost. It's also easy to eat on the go and can be stored for long periods of time. If you're looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, candy is a great option.

There are a lot of great snack foods out there, but cookies are definitely one of the top contenders. Whether you're looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth or just looking for a tasty treat, cookies are always a good choice. There are so many different types of cookies to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to have. Do you want a classic chocolate chip cookie or something more unique like an oatmeal raisin cookie? Or maybe you're in the mood for something completely different like a peanut butter cookie. Whatever your preference, there's sure to be a cookie that's perfect for you. Cookies are such a popular snack because they're easy to make and they taste great. Plus, they're portable so you can take them with you on the go. Whether you're headed to the office or hitting the gym, cookies make a great snack option.

Ice Cream

There are few things more refreshing than a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day. While the flavor options are endless, some of our favorites include classic vanilla, rich chocolate, and fruity strawberry. Ice cream is not only delicious, but it can also be healthy! It's packed with calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones. And recent studies have shown that eating ice cream can actually help you lose weight. So next time you're looking for a snack, reach for the ice cream!

Cake

There are countless types of cake, but most can be classified into two broad categories: sponge cake and butter cake. Sponge cake is made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, while butter cake uses additional fat in the form of butter or oil. Both types of cake are leavened with baking powder or soda. Cake is often served as a dessert or snack, and comes in a variety of flavors including chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and lemon. It can be decorated with frosting, icing, or fruit. Cake is a popular food for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. One of the earliest cakes was the honey cake, which dates back to ancient Greece. The Roman Empire also had a type of cake called placenta, which was made with flour, cheese, eggs, and spices. In medieval Europe, cakes were often filled with fruit or nuts and soaked in alcohol. Today, there are endless possibilities when it comes to cake recipes - from simple pound cakes to elaborate wedding cakes!

Fruit

Fruit is a great snack food because it is packed with nutrients and fiber. It is also relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for those watching their weight. There are many different types of fruit, so there is sure to be one that will suit your taste. Some popular varieties include apples, bananas, oranges, and grapes.

Vegetables

There are a wide variety of vegetables that make great snacks. Some of the most popular include carrots, celery, cucumbers, and peppers. These veggies are all low in calories and fat, and high in fiber and nutrients. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and can be enjoyed plain or with dips or other healthy toppings.

Cheese

Cheese is a dairy product made from milk that has been fermented and usually pressed into a solid form. It is a popular food in many cultures and comes in a variety of flavors, textures, and forms. Cheese can be used as a condiment, ingredient, or main dish. There are many different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, brie, and more. Cheese can be eaten fresh or aged, and has a wide range of textures from soft to firm. It is often used in cooking to add flavor or texture to dishes. Cheese is high in protein and calcium, and is a good source of vitamins A and B12. It also contains phosphorus, zinc, and vitamin K.

Crackers

There are many types of crackers available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some crackers are unhealthy and full of empty calories, while others are packed with nutrients and provide a variety of health benefits. When choosing a healthy cracker, it's important to look for one that is made with whole grains. Whole grain crackers contain more fiber and nutrients than their refined counterparts. They also tend to be lower in calories and better for your digestion. Another thing to look for in a healthy cracker is one that contains healthy fats. Many crackers are loaded with unhealthy saturated fats, but there are some brands that use healthier fats like olive oil or avocado oil. These types of fat can help to improve your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease. Finally, you'll want to choose a cracker that is low in sugar. Many crackers contain added sugars, which can cause spikes in your blood sugar levels. Opt for a brand that uses natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead. If you're looking for a healthy and delicious snack, then be sure to check out these top-rated crackers!

Popcorn

Popcorn is a healthy snack because it is low in calories and fat. A one-ounce serving of popcorn has only 31 calories and 0.5 grams of fat. Popcorn is also a good source of fiber, with 3.6 grams per serving. This whole grain snack can help you feel full and satisfied between meals.

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sambvcks · 3 years

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crawl home to her, b.b. x reader

chapter one // body’s working on empty

summary: bucky isn’t as receptive to this new life of his as everyone had hoped. he’s cold, sharp-tongued, and closed off. except to the tenant across the hallway from him, who always wears pajamas and bakes a dozen too many of his favorite cookies

warnings: food, nothing too bad this chapter!

word count: 1.5k-ish

author’s note: i thought my marvel phase ended five years ago...here we are again. i haven’t written in awhile so please be kind! title and chapter titles taken from hozier’s ‘work song’.

[ read on ao3 | series masterlist | inbox | join my taglist! ]

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Five minutes into their first session, Bucky decided he was going to make Dr. Raynor’s job as difficult as he possibly could.

It wouldn’t be an impossible task, seeing how this whole ordeal depended on him opening up and talking, two things that he had abandoned decades ago. Her unwavering stare was nothing more than a challenge, these fifty-minute sessions once a week were nothing more than a slight inconvenience to his lackluster day to day routine. He would play along, do whatever exercises she asked, and feign stability until he never had to see her again.

“Since this is our first session together, we’ll take it easy.” She promised with a forced upturn of her lips before whipping out her notebook.

Suddenly, it felt like he was encased in bulletproof glass in Berlin again. He remembered that the last time he had been forced into receiving psychiatric help, it hadn’t exactly gone to plan. His chin fell to his chest, hands wringing together as he thought of any excuse to request a different doctor.

“Let’s begin.”

It was already getting too hot to wear leather gloves and his heavy jacket. New York’s heatwave was supposed to be the highest on record this year and while kids popped open fire hydrants in the street, Bucky would be settled on the hardwood floor in the back corner of his apartment, waiting.

Waiting for what, he wasn’t quite sure.

It was a fairly nice apartment, newly renovated and practically barren. Government issued and funded, of course, and he had spent the first night pulling the furniture from the walls to the center of the room in search of bugs and cameras. He found thirty-four, destroyed them under a rolling pin, and they hadn’t come to replace them. Message received.

The one thing he really liked about the apartment building were his neighbors. The price tag for a one bedroom was substantial to say the least and only older couples could really afford it. No children, no dogs, no outsiders. The only break from his undisturbed routine would be occasionally helping Mrs. Johnson down the hall carry her groceries as she struggled to get the door unlocked with her brittle hands.

They affectionately called him James and the older women were quick to get a hold of his arms, saying things like “They don’t make them like you anymore, James!”. He swallowed the bile prickling at the back of his throat as he nodded, and they moved on to telling him about their single granddaughters.

It was almost nice, his routine. Almost.

Outside of those small encounters, he spent most of his waking hours jogging in the park and cooking the same three meals. He had his appointment every Wednesday with Dr. Raynor, but that was it. He’d take two trains back to his apartment and wouldn’t emerge again until he needed groceries two days later.

It was when he was returning from one of his biweekly grocery trips, a paper bag settled on his hips, that he spotted you outside his door.

He stilled in the hallway, taking a quick step back to peek around the corner without being spotted. His breath stalled, his ears picking up your soft humming and the crinkle of plastic as you set a bundle of cookies at his doorstep, the only one without a mat. His eyes flicked to the other doors, where identical bags of cookies sat propped up, tied with blood red ribbons.

His shoulders relaxed. No threat.

The bottom of his grocery bag suddenly gave way, fruit rolling in every direction. Bucky fell to his knees, glove clad hands snatching up everything he could reach as quickly as he could manage. You were faster, though, and scooped up a plum that had rolled your way, offering it over as he tried to balance the rest of his groceries in his arms.

“Thanks.” He was quick to sweep past you, hand digging in his pockets for his key.

“James, right? Ms. Robinson downstairs is like, in love with you.”

“Yeah, but, uh-“ Dr. Raynor’s instructions from their last session rang in his head, as much as he tried to tune her out: make connections. “You can call me Bucky.” He cleared his throat. “And Mrs. Robinson is far too good for me.”

“Bucky it is then.” You trailed him down the hallway, “Y/N.”

Bucky tried to sneak a glance at you from the corner of his eyes, which was harder to inconspicuously do now that he had gotten a haircut and couldn’t hide his wandering eyes behind long tresses. Young was Bucky’s first thought. much younger than the other renters in the building. Bright was next, followed by much too smiley for a Tuesday morning.

Pretty, he admitted as he turned his back to unlock his door. Maybe in another life he would have lingered in the hall, his so-called effortless charm seeping through as you swooned at the very thought of a date with James Buchanan Barnes. But that life was long gone, and instead he rushed to retreat.

“Oh, don’t forget these.” You swooped down to collect the bundle of cookies you had left at his door, handing them to the hand that wasn’t delicately balancing the pile of groceries he still held against his impossibly broad shoulders. “Oatmeal raisin, super-secret family recipe.”

He was back in the doorway of his ma’s kitchen, watching his little sister balance on a wobbling stool as she struggled to crack and egg with her little fingers. He can so distinctly see the pale green of the cabinets, remember the fight his parents had when she begged for that shade of green while his dad had wanted white. Of course, she won.

“These are your brother’s favorite.” His ma whispered to his sister; her flour covered hands reaching for the age faded index card with their grandmother’s script detailing the ingredients. “Our family’s recipe. One day, you will make these for your children. And your children’s children.”

Rebecca, still so young and with a hatred for smelly boys deep in her bones, giggled at the mere thought as her fingers fished out the bits of eggshell that snuck their way into the bowl. She wiped it away on the spare apron tied twice around her waist, much too big for her.

Bucky would never see her grow into it. He would be drafted only a few months later.

In the meantime, he would bundle half a dozen of them in a tea towel and split them with Steve on the walk to the movie theater. Steve would begrudgingly admit that Buck’s ma made the best cookies, but his made the best brisket. They’d sneak in through the back door and do it all again the next weekend, until they ran out of weekends together.

“Oatmeal raisin are my favorite.” He admitted, accepting your offering like a stray cat does to the first scrap of food from a stranger.

“I think you’re the only person under the age on one hundred to ever say that.” You teased, backing away to the door adjacent to his, “Anyway, don’t tell me things like that. I’m a stress baker and with finals coming up…” You winced at the image of the dozens of batches you would surely be whipping up in the coming weeks.

“Finals?”

“Law school, one semester left.” You fished your own keys from your back pocket. Bucky barely held in the scoff at the shiny Spider-Man keychain that dangled from your fingers. “You?”

“Oh, no. I haven’t been in school in what feels like…a century.”

“Well, I’m all alone here and as much as I would love to, I can’t eat everything that I bake. So, expect a few dozen muffins and cookies every few days.”

“No arguing from me, doll.”

You both lingered in the small hallway, only a few steps apart, each leaning against your respective doors. Keys in each hand, with no intention of using them any time soon.

“Law school, you said? How do you afford a place like this?” Bucky was sure he was the only recently pardoned fugitive under this room.

“Well, this used to be my grandma’s apartment and it was handed down to me in a maybe no so legal way. If the landlord asks, I’m an eighty-year-old woman who doesn’t know how to work her answering machine.”

He huffed a laugh, mostly because that wasn’t particularly far from how he felt with today’s tech. The flip phone that Dr. Raynor had described as archaic sat heavy in his back pocket with only three names programed into his contacts. Don’t get him started on his television.

“Nice to meet you, Bucky.”

With that, you each stepping into your respective apartments. Bucky stalled at his door for a moment, listening as you locked and dead bolted your door behind you. He sighed, dumping his half-ruined groceries on his barren kitchen island.

The next day, he’d have another appointment with Dr. Raynor. This time when he’d say I’m trying, as he did each week, it wouldn’t be a complete lie. His phone buzzed in his back pocket.

2 New Messages

From: Sam

You coming up this weekend?

Don’t ignore me this time. He’s getting worse, Buck.

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes x you #marvel imagine #tfatws imagine #crawl home to her #sab writes

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sunriserose1023 · 6 years

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The Adventures of Love Muffin and Coffee Shop Guy

Here is one of my entries for Mimi’s Marvel Trope Challenge, which I combined with Kait’s 8K Angst Writing Challenge. I took it easy on the angst, in that it’s still there, just not as rip-your-heart-out as I have been known to do in the past.

PROMPT 1: Two strangers who have a silent daily battle to get the same muffin/ most comfortable chair/ best parking spot/ certain object at the coffee shop/library that turns into something more PROMPT 2: “Can we get coffee?” ”Is this a date or it is because you’ll end up strangling someone if you don’t get caffeine in your system?” ”I shouldn’t have asked.” CHARACTERS: Female reader, Hope van Dyne, Wanda Maximoff, Clint Barton, Jane Foster, Sam Wilson, Scott Lang, Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, Natasha Romanoff WORD COUNT: 5491 WARNINGS: Angst, fluff; Clint is based on the Hawkeye of the comics, so he’s deaf

TAGS: @captain-rogers-beard, @bionic-buckyb, @captain-s-rogers, @star-spangled-man-with-a-plan, @stevieang

You tapped your foot on the floorboard of the car, leaning forward and looking out the passenger-side window. You blew out a breath and tapped the horn at the exact moment the door opened and your best friend stepped out of her house. She held a hand to her hip, one perfectly groomed eyebrow raised. She made her way down the sidewalk and climbed into your car, turning to face you and blinking her big blue eyes.

“Did you just honk at me?” “We’ve got to hurry.” “Why? We don’t have to be at work for another forty-five minutes.” “It’s not work I’m trying to get to. It’s the coffee shop.”

Hope stared at you as you drove just slightly over the speed limit. She glanced out the windshield, then looked back to you.

“What coffee shop?” “One I found a few weeks ago. It’s called Widow’s Peak, and it is divine.” “Okay, why are we rushing to get there?”

You flipped your blinker on, changing lanes as you talked.

“I need to get the last chocolate cream cheese muffin.” “How do you know it’s the last one?” “Because it always is. Those things are beyond delicious and they’re always the first to go.”

Hope shook her head.

“I’m so confused.”

You smiled as you flipped the blinker on again, pulling into the parking lot of a small shopping center. You’d barely put the car in park before you jumped out and ran inside. Hope scrambled to follow you, stepping inside right behind you. The girl behind the counter, a pretty girl with reddish hair, dark eyes, dark eyeliner, and rings on almost every finger tsked her tongue when you walked in.

“Nooo.”

She smiled, shrugging her shoulders.

“Sorry, honey. He beat you today.”

You stomped your foot, turning back and pointing at Hope.

“This is all your fault.”

Hope held out her hands and the girl behind the counter laughed. You dragged your feet to the pastry cooler, Hope joining you a minute later. You had a pout on your face as you scanned the cooler and Hope let out a breath as she looked to the girl.

“Can you fill me in on what this is all about?”

She smiled.

“Y/N has an ongoing competition with another of our customers.”

Hope raised an eyebrow and you huffed out a breath.

“She won’t even tell me his name. Only that he’s gorgeous and apparently loves chocolate cream cheese muffins and breaking hearts.”

The girl laughed, holding out a hand towards Hope.

“I’m Wanda, by the way. Wanda Maximoff.” “Hope van Dyne.”

Wanda walked behind the pastry cooler, setting her chin on the top of it.

“What are you going to settle for today?”

You sighed, then pointed to your selection.

“I guess one of the raspberry scones. And two oatmeal cookies.” “Cookies before nine A.M.?” “You hush your mouth or I won’t share like I was planning to.”

Hope smiled, and Wanda set the pastries on the counter, along with two steaming cups of coffee. You paid for it all and waved at Wanda, then handed Hope one of the cups of coffee as the two of you walked back to your car. When you’d started the engine, you unwrapped the cookies, taking a bite out of one and handing the other to Hope.

“So tell me more about … this.”

You chewed, taking a sip of your coffee before you spoke.

“So I found this place a few weeks back. Looked interesting, so I went in. Did you taste the coffee yet?”

Hope shook her head, and you motioned for her to try it. She did, and when her eyes widened, you nodded.

“I know, right? So I figured if the coffee was that good, the pastries had to be too, you know? I tried one of the muffins and it was heavenly. Went back the next day and all the muffins were gone. Went the next day and I got the last one. When I went back the next week, the muffins were gone again. I happened to mention to Wanda that the chocolate cream cheese muffins are my favorite, and she said they’re super popular. Mentioned that there was this guy who came in every day and always gets the chocolate cream cheese muffin. I was just joking with her, told her to tell him that he’d have to get up early in the morning to get my muffin.”

You smiled.

“And I guess he took that as a challenge. So we … kind of fight every day to get the last muffin.” “Why don’t you just get up earlier and come get one when they first open?” “Because one: they open at five A.M. And two: have you met me? I barely make it to work on time. You think I would waste my precious sleep to get up early for a muffin?”

Hope laughed.

“Good point.”

You shook your head, taking another sip of coffee and putting the car in drive.

The next morning, you walked into the office with a smile on your face. Hope looked up from her desk and leaned back in her chair when she saw you.

“Well, well. Someone looks happy today.” “Damn right. I beat him to it.”

You sat at your desk and unwrapped the muffin. You gave a happy sigh and smiled widely, and Hope laughed as she scooted closer to you.

“Let me try a bite.”

You shot her a look that made her laugh and she moved closer to you.

“I want to see if this thing is worth competing for. Come on.”

You rolled your eyes, pinching off a piece of the muffin and handing it to her. She chewed it and you watched as her eyes widened.

“Holy shit.” “Right?! Now do you see?” “Oh, honey. Can you order like a dozen of these? Because I need that every morning.” “You’re welcome.”

You walked into the coffee shop and Wanda smiled.

“Just in time.”

You threw your hands into the air and she laughed as she pulled the last muffin from the pastry case. You set your purse on the counter and Wanda cleared her throat. You met her eyes, tilting your head when you saw the single pink rose in her hand. You raised an eyebrow and she smiled.

“He was in here just a little while ago. Asked me to give this to you when you came to get your muffin.”

Your mouth dropped open, fingers gently taking the rose Wanda handed to you. You brought it to your nose and closed your eyes as you took in the sweet scent. You swallowed, smiling up at her.

“Tell him … thank you. I love it.”

Wanda grinned at you.

“I will.”

“Hey, I got a tray of those muffins for the breakfast meeting tomorrow. Do you think you can pick them up on your way?”

You nodded, and Hope moved to rest a hip on the edge of your desk.

“Anything this morning?”

You smiled.

“Maybe.”

Hope smiled.

“What?”

You took a roll of Sweet Tarts candy from your pocket. Hope frowned when she looked at it, then looked to you. You laughed.

“Wanda said he said that he thinks I must be sweet, the way Wanda describes me, but stealing his muffin makes me a little tart.”

Hope rolled her eyes, but smiled.

“What are you doing in return?” “I gave Wanda a little bag of Sour Patch Kids.”

Hope laughed.

“Perfect.”

After a week of little gifts from what you’d come to think of as your secret admirer with Wanda playing the middle man between the two of you, you walked into the coffee shop and yawned. Wanda gave you a smile.

“Good morning, sunshine.”

You rolled your eyes and she laughed.

“He beat you in this morning, but he did leave something for you.”

You leaned over the counter and Wanda pulled out a small plate with half of a chocolate cream cheese muffin on it. You laughed, then smiled as warmth filled your chest. Wanda cleared her throat and you looked up at her. She smiled, then rolled her eyes.

“He wanted me to ask you a question.”

You nodded, and she spoke as she wrapped up the muffin.

“Do you like raisins?”

You furrowed your brows, and Wanda glanced back at you, she nodded in encouragement, and you shrugged your shoulders.

“Sure.” “How about a date?”

You stopped, let the words register, then fell out laughing. Tears came to your eyes and Wanda grinned behind the counter, laughing to herself.

“Oh, wow. Oh my god, that’s great.”

You pulled your phone out of your purse when you heard it vibrate, then groaned.

“I’ve got a meeting I’ve got to get to. I’ll get here early tomorrow and tell you something to tell him back, okay?” “I’ll be waiting!”

You glanced up from your desk when Hope stood up from hers. She came back a few minutes later and you waved her over. She raised an eyebrow in lieu of saying anything and you leaned back in your chair.

“What’s the cheesiest pick up line you know?” “What?”

You smiled, laughing to yourself.

“So when I went to the coffee shop this morning, Wanda was waiting for me. He beat me this morning, but left me half of the muffin.” “Aw!”

You rolled your eyes.

“Then, Wanda said he’d asked her to tell me something. Well, to ask me a question.” “Which was?”

You looked up at her.

“Do you like raisins?”

Hope made a face.

“Seriously? What kind of question is that? ‘Do you like raisins?’ What the hell?” “Just answer the question.” “Do I like raisins?”

You nodded, and she lifted her shoulders.

“Sure. They’re okay.” “How about a date?” “A d—”

Recognition lit up Hope’s features and you laughed as she shook her head.

“Oh, wow. That’s a good one. I’ve never heard that one before.” “Right? So I want to tell him one back, but I don’t know what to say.”

Hope tapped a dark burgundy nail against her chin.

“Well, I mean, there’s the classics. ‘Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?’ Although that one won’t really work since you’ve never seen the guy.”

She twisted her lips, then turned her back to you.

“Hey Clint!”

Clint Barton poked his head around his cubicle, standing up and walking over to your desk. Hope nodded to him, speaking slowly and deliberately, so he could read her lips.

“Cheesiest pick up line you know.”

He thought for a second, then smiled, hands moving as he spoke.

“Did it hurt? When you fell from heaven?”

You rolled your eyes, but smiled, and Clint took that as permission to continue.

“If I could rearrange the alphabet, I’d put ‘U’ and ‘I’ together.”

You groaned at that, and Clint laughed. Jane Foster stepped up from her cubicle, leaning against the side of yours.

“I lost my number. Can I have yours?”

You laughed at that, nodding at her. Sam Wilson walked up, glancing at the crowd around your desk.

“What are we pow-wowing about and why wasn’t I invited?” “Corniest pick up line you’ve got. Go.”

Sam nodded at Hope, then turned to you.

“Can you hold this for me?”

He held out a hand and you nodded, moving your hand under his. Instead of handing you something, which you were expecting, Sam took hold of your hand. You shook your head.

“That’s your hand. … Oh.”

You laughed as Sam gave your hand a squeeze and Clint clapped his hands together.

“That’s the best one!”

Sam let go of your hand and stepped back.

“Why are we tossing around cheesy pick-up lines?” “Because Y/N got hit with one this morning.”

Jane rushed forward.

“From Coffee Shop Guy?!”

You lifted your eyebrows and Jane shrugged. Clint stepped into your line of sight, smiling as he began signing, hands flying. You shook your head, reaching out and taking hold of his wrists. You spoke slowly and deliberately, allowing Clint to read your lips.

“You’ve got to slow down. I can’t read that fast.”

Clint gave a quiet laugh, this time speaking as he signed.

“Hope told us about him.”

You leaned around Clint, and Hope held out her hands.

“What, like it was a secret?”

You rolled your eyes, and Jane clasped her hands together.

“I think it’s sweet. Especially now.” “Hey, I thought of another one.”

You glanced over to Sam, who bounced his eyebrows at you. You raised your eyebrows in anticipation, a smile already playing at your lips. He cleared his throat, speaking with a wide smile on his face.

“Kiss me if I’m wrong, but dinosaurs still exist, right?”

Laughter rang throughout your group of cubicles, and Clint clapped his hands until you all turned to look at him. He signed while he spoke.

“There’s a whole website dedicated to cheesy pick up lines.”

You crawled out of your chair, moving to join the rest of the group gathered around Clint’s computer. Jane let out a laugh.

“You must be a parking ticket, ‘cause you’ve got ‘Fine’ written all over you.” “Classic.”

The bell above the door jingled as you stepped into Widow’s Peak, mouth open in a wide yawn.

“I’ve got everything ready for you.”

You furrowed your eyebrows and Wanda’s smile softened as she held out a baggie and a tall to-go cup.

“I’ve got something to tell you.”

You sighed.

“I never really had an admirer, did I? You bought the stuff because you felt sorry for me.” “What? No!”

You stopped at the counter and Wanda leaned over it.

“Your guy? He’s in the military. He’s going on a mission, of sorts. He couldn’t tell me much, only that he’d be gone for about a month.” “Oh.”

You glanced down at the counter, wondering why you felt sad. You’d never even met the guy, but hearing Wanda say the words struck a place in your heart.

“However …”

You met her eyes again and she smiled.

“He said to be sure and make absolutely certain that you got your muffin every day.”

You blinked, a soft smile coming to your lips.

“Really?”

She nodded.

“So get ready, because I promised to be sure and take care of you while he’s gone.”

You blinked, a lump suddenly in your throat. You went for your purse and Wanda shook her head.

“It’s taken care of.”

You met her eyes, yours widening.

“For a month?”

She nodded, and you pursed your lips, biting the inside of your cheek. You nodded, giving her a smile as you took your coffee and the muffin, lost in your thoughts as you walked back to your car.

You sat at your desk, one foot planted on the ground, slowly moving your chair back and forth. Hope was at her desk across from you when the other people in your office gathered around. Clint tapped a hand on your desk and you turned to face him. He spoke slowly, hands moving to sign the words he said.

“How’s Coffee Shop Guy?”

You sighed as you turned to face Clint. You opened your mouth, but couldn’t find the words. You shrugged your shoulders and shook your head.

“Did something happen?”

You looked to Clint’s right, where Jane was standing. You gave her a smile, then shook your head.

“I went to the coffee shop this morning. Wanda had a muffin there waiting for me, which apparently, he set up.” “’Set up?’”

You nodded to Clint.

“Turns out, he’s in the military and he’s leaving for a while. But he … made a deal with Wanda to make sure get a muffin every day while he’s gone. He paid for it and everything.”

Jane’s mouth dropped open and she glanced to Hope, who stood up from her desk.

“What?”

You nodded.

“I don’t … I don’t know what to do with that. I … I’ve never even met the guy and I feel … weird.” “Weird how? Is the muffin bad?”

You laughed, looking over to Sam, who was smiling at you.

“No, the muffin’s perfect.”

Sam winked at you, and Clint went to speak, closing his mouth when the phone at your desk rang. You answered it, making a face.

“We’re needed in the conference room.”

Everyone made a face identical to yours, then headed down the hall.

You sat on Hope’s couch, a glass of wine in your hand. She walked in from the kitchen, sitting beside you and picking up her own glass.

“Talk to me.”

You smiled.

“It’s weird.” “Yeah, you mentioned that.”

You rolled your eyes, keeping the smile on your face.

“I don’t even know this guy. Never met him before in my life. I mean … that I know of. All we do is go to the same coffee shop. And now I …”

You sighed.

“I’m worried about him.”

Hope sighed, shaking her head as she brought her wine glass to her lips.

“You are falling in love with Coffee Shop Guy.” “I am not.” “You lie. Did you hear the words you just said?”

You sighed, leaning forward and setting your glass on Hope’s coffee table. You turned to face her, pulling your legs up under you.

“I don’t know him. Every time we’ve ever interacted, it’s been through Wanda. She could be playing him up because he’s her brother and she wants him out of her house. Or he could be in the mob and he’s threatening her to do the stuff.” “Okay, you’ve got to stop watching these weird-ass movies on Netflix all the time. Go outside. Get some fresh air. Human interaction.” “Shut up.”

Hope laughed before moving to set her glass on the table beside yours, pulling her legs up under her the same way you were.

“This is sweet, Y/N. It’s like … like old times, when people had secret admirers.” “What if the military thing is a lie and he’s from the old times? Like what if he’s ninety?” “I don’t think Wanda would do that to you.”

You nodded.

“I just …”

You sighed and Hope reached over, taking one of your hands.

“It’s okay. To … like him and worry about him. To conjure up this picture in your mind of what he’s like. I mean, he’s given you flowers and made you laugh and made sure that you’re getting your favorite breakfast every day.” “I just don’t want to build him up so much the real thing disappoints me.” “I know, honey. But you’ll never know if you don’t take the shot.”

You nodded, and Hope leaned over, kissing your forehead as she stood up.

“Come on. I’m going to bed and if you don’t come get in your spot now, I’ll lock you out so you don’t wake me up.”

You laughed, but stood up because you knew she wasn’t kidding. You fell asleep dreaming of coffee and muffins and roses and for some reason you couldn’t pinpoint, blue, blue eyes.

You were typing on your computer at work the next day when Clint walked by, gently tapping on the edge of your desk. You lifted your head and he signed to you, asking if you knew what was going on. You shook your head and he shrugged his shoulders, signing that everyone was in the conference room. You stood up, following him down the hall. One of the projectors was set up, filling one of the walls of the room with what looked to be a newscast. You sidled up to Scott Lang, who worked across the hall and was constantly flirting with Hope, crossing your arms over your chest, whispering to him.

“Hey, what’s all this about?”

He shrugged.

“I don’t really know. Something about how a group of Special Forces soldiers has gone missing. Doesn’t look good.”

Your breath caught in your throat as you turned back to the projection on the wall. You watched the news ticker across the bottom, covering your mouth with a hand.

You went to Widow’s Peak as soon as you got off work, ignoring Hope’s efforts to get you to talk to her. There were no customers, only Wanda behind the counter, and she came and sat at a table with you, both of you sipping hot chocolate.

“So … he was in that group of soldiers that’s been on the news, wasn’t he?”

Wanda sighed, stirring her hot chocolate, the thin spoon clinking against the rim of the mug.

“I don’t know for certain, because he can’t call when he leaves out, but … I think so. I’m afraid so. Nat’s out of her mind with worry.” “Nat?”

Wanda met your eyes and smiled.

“Natasha. She’s my cousin, and this is her coffee shop.” “So she’s the one who makes the pastries?”

Wanda grinned.

“Yep.” “I need to meet her and marry her.”

Wanda laughed.

“If she wasn’t already married, she’d totally take you up on that.”

You smiled, leaning forward, taking the opportunity to change the subject.

“So I’ve always wondered. Why ‘Widow’s Peak?’ Where did that name come from?”

Wanda took a sip of her hot chocolate, then smiled.

“There are a couple of theories bouncing around out there. One, that the name is literal and means something tragic.”

Wanda shrugged.

“Since I know Bucky very well and he is very much alive, which makes Natasha the opposite of a widow, I say that theory has been debunked.”

You smiled and nodded as she went on.

“Another is that Nat was a spy for the CIA or something, and her code name had something to do with it. I’m thinking it was something like Black Widow, you know?”

You nodded and she shrugged again.

“I’m on the fence about that one. I mean, I doubt it was true, but …”

You pursed your lips as you slowly nodded, and Wanda spoke up again.

“The third theory is that this place was overrun with black widow spiders and they had to practically level it before the strip mall was built, and the name is an homage to that.”

You went still, slowly moving your eyes from side to side and Wanda laughed.

“Don’t worry. I haven’t seen hide nor hair of a single spider since I started working here.”

You shivered and she laughed, taking another drink from her mug. You shook your head as you looked down at your cup, giving a sigh.

“I’m worried about him, Wanda.”

Wanda gave a soft smile.

“I know, honey.” “I’ve never even met the guy, never laid eyes on him, but … I’m terrified he might not come back.” “You can’t think like that.”

Wanda reached over, the bracelets on her wrist jingling as she laid her hand on yours. You looked up at her, tears filling your eyes.

“He has to be okay.”

She nodded.

“I know.”

You both turned and looked out the window, but you turned your hand over and gripped Wanda’s tightly.

“So Coffee Shop Guy is rich?”

You rolled your eyes before turning back to look at Sam.

“What makes you say that?” “Because it’s been almost six weeks and you’re still muffin-ing every morning.” “Shut up, Sam.”

He smiled, moving to lean against your desk.

“You can’t think the worst.”

You sighed.

“They found those soldiers three weeks ago, Sam. Wanda doesn’t say a word when I go in the shop anymore. This morning, my coffee and the muffin were just sitting on the counter, no one around.”

You swallowed, turning back to your computer.

“I just feel stupid.” “Why?” “Because I wasted all that time acting like a child. Trying to get to a stupid muffin instead of …”

You shrugged your shoulders, shaking your head. Sam crossed his arms over his chest.

“So … what? You should have called this punk out the first time he got the last muffin? You should have sat outside the shop and waited and … what, kicked his ass?”

You blew out a breath.

“I don’t know.” “Y/N, you had fun doing it. You’d come up in here like the cat who ate the canary whenever you won. And when you didn’t, you were all sulled up and pouty, but it was cute. It gave you something to look forward to. Something special just for you. You can’t negate all that just because you let your mind work double-time.”

You looked up to Sam, who gave you a smile. He reached down and pressed his thumb at your cheek.

“Cheer up, buttercup.”

You gave a smile and Sam patted your shoulder before he walked away.

You sat in your car outside Widow’s Peak for a good ten minutes before you got up the nerve to go in. It was Saturday, which was good in that you didn’t have to work, but then you weren’t sure if Wanda worked on Saturdays. You closed your eyes and took in a deep breath, letting it out slowly. You turned the car off and climbed out, walking towards the door. A man with his arm in a complicated-looking brace came walking up and you opened the door for him. He flashed you a smile, murmuring his thanks as he stepped into the shop. You followed him, taking off your sunglasses and setting them atop your head. You looked around, heart falling when you saw a man behind the counter.

You thought about turning back and just going home, but you shook your head and walked towards the counter. The man behind it walked into the kitchen just as you did and you sighed before you stepped towards the pastry cooler.

“What’s your favorite thing to get here?”

You glanced over your shoulder, seeing the guy with the arm brace standing beside you. You straightened and shrugged your shoulders.

“I always get the same thing. Caramel macchiato. Although I’m leaning towards something iced today.”

He nodded, glancing up at the chalkboard menu.

“Yeah, I always go for the Americano myself.” “Creature of habit?” “Quite a bit.”

You smiled as you looked up at him. He was taller than you, with blondish hair and gorgeous blue eyes. He looked like he must work out all the time, aside from the sling that fit around his ridiculously tiny waist and over one shoulder, keeping his elbow bent and his arm near his stomach. You met his eyes and saw the smirk on his face, feeling your cheeks heat up before you smiled.

“I’m Y/N, by the way.” “Steve Rogers.”

You nodded, glancing back towards the still-empty counter. Steve stepped closer to it.

“It’s okay. I know the owners.”

He slapped his hand on the counter a few times, until the man from earlier poked his head out from the kitchen. He looked around, face falling when he saw Steve. Steve nodded to him, a smile on his face.

“Quit playing grab-ass with your wife and come take our orders.”

The man shook his head, muttering under his breath as he walked forward.

“You know, Rogers, if there wasn’t a lady present …” “You wouldn’t be here. Ha, ha.”

You snorted, clamping a hand over your mouth. Steve and the man behind the counter looked to you and smiled. You shrugged your shoulders and Steve turned back.

“I want an extra large Americano, and my new friend here will have …”

You smiled.

“Medium iced vanilla latte. With caramel drizzle, please.”

The man nodded.

“Any pastries?”

Steve looked down at you and nodded. You smiled, speaking at the same time as Steve did.

“Just don’t get the—” “The chocolate cream cheese muffin, please.”

You took in a breath and let it out slowly, turning your head when you heard Steve’s whisper.

“It can’t be.”

You met his eyes and shook your head.

“What?”

Steve stared at you, then licked his lips.

“Are … are you …”

The two of you turned back as the bell over the front door jingled. A smile came over your face when you saw Wanda, but it slipped away when she gasped and covered her mouth with her multi-ringed fingers. You reached out to her.

“Wanda? Are you okay?” “You know Wanda?” “She’s my friend. We talk in here all the time.”

Steve smiled.

“You’re Wanda’s friend who loves the chocolate cream cheese muffins.” “Hang on.”

You looked back at the man behind the counter, who was pointing at you with the pen in his hand, but looking at Steve.

“Is this your little love muffin?”

You barked out a laugh.

“Excuse me?”

The man behind the counter gave a sheepish look while Wanda put a hand to her forehead. You looked to Steve, who was glaring at the man behind the counter. You shook your head and Wanda stepped to you, laying her bejeweled hands on your shoulders.

“Y/N, this is him.” “Who him?”

Wanda widened her eyes and smiled. You took in a breath, pointing.

“This is him? My Coffee Shop Guy?” “How original.” “Shut up, Bucky.”

Wanda and Steve had spoken at the same time, and you glanced from the man behind the counter back to Steve. A soft smile came over your face when you moved closer to him.

“You’re my … rose leaving, cheesy pick up line giver?”

A smile came over his lips.

“And you’re my muffin stealer.” “I didn’t steal it!”

He laughed, holding out the hand that wasn’t in the sling. You put your hand in his and stepped closer to him.

“Thank you, for … everything you set up while you were gone.”

Steve nodded, and you looked up, breath catching in your throat at the sight of his blue, blue eyes.

“I’m glad you’re back.”

The words were barely a murmur, but Steve closed his eyes at them. After a moment, he opened them, giving your hand a gentle squeeze.

“So am I.” “Good God, man. Kiss her already.”

Steve hung his head and you let out a laugh. He gave your hand a tug and you stepped closer, ignoring the crowd around you as you went on your tiptoes to press your lips to his. The kiss was chaste, but sweet, and when you went back to your flat feet, the look of promise in Steve’s eyes lit a fire in your belly. You licked your lips, seeing a flash in his eyes, and you motioned to one of the tables.

“Would you like to sit and talk?” “Without a middleman this time? Think we can do it?”

Wanda rolled her eyes and huffed out a sigh that you heard across the room. You laughed, nodding your head.

“Let’s try it out.”

You started walking towards one of the tables and Steve stopped by the counter, tapping a hand on it, getting Bucky’s attention.

“Can we get coffee?” “Is this a date or is it because you’ll end up strangling someone if you don’t get caffeine in your system?” “I shouldn’t have asked.”

You laughed from your spot at the table, and Steve shook his head as he came to sit across from you. You leaned over the table, a smile on your face.

“You know, I … I think something’s wrong with my eyes.”

Steve’s brows furrowed and you couldn’t help the smile.

“I can’t seem to take them off of you.”

Steve blinked, a second before he threw his head back, rich laughter filling the shop. He moved the hand not in the sling to rest just to the left of his heart, and he shook his head as he looked back to you.

“Oh, yeah. It was all worth it. Every bit.”

You smiled, leaning back in your chair as Bucky brought over your coffees and the muffin. You and Steve both reached for it at the same time, smiles on each of your faces as you started making your cases as to why you should get the muffin.

Bucky walked back behind the counter, smiling at Natasha as she walked out from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dishtowel. Wanda came skipping over and leaned across the counter as Bucky wrapped an arm around his wife. Natasha nodded towards the table.

“All’s well that ends well?”

Wanda nodded, but Bucky narrowed his eyes.

“Neither one of them know that you keep a stash of those muffins in the kitchen and only set one out in the cooler, do they?”

Wanda pursed her lips, widening her eyes and shrugging her shoulders. Nat mirrored Wanda’s look, then laid a hand on her husband’s chest.

“Desperate times, baby. All’s fair in love and war.”

#mimi's marvel trope challenge #kaits8kangstchallenge #marvel fanfiction #Marvel AU #rachel writes marvel #Steve Rogers #Steve Rogers x Female Reader #steve rogers au #angst #fluff #cheesy pick up lines #coffeeshop AU

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writing-royza · 5 years

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Tainted Blood, Tainted Soul: Chapter Sixteen - Apaavan

A/N: Happy Wednesday, everyone! I'm sorry for the delay; this is getting into a busy timeof year for me. This weekend, I helped my husband host a public trivia night on Saturday and then Sunday we played D&D with friends and it ran late. Since then, I’ve just been trying to get enough sleep and unwind where I can. So please enjoy this chapter, even if it is a little late!

I do not own FMA.

Chapter Sixteen - Apaavan

EAST CITY MILITARY HOSPITAL

1743 HOURS, APRIL 21

As soon as the man entered the main lobby of the hospital, once he was out of the infernal sun, he felt the irritating weakness in his limbs fade. It wasn't entirely gone, not while the sun remained above the horizon, but as long as he wasn't directly within its beams, he would manage.

He was careful to carry his bouquet of flowers upright, so that the canvas bag folded in amongst the stems wouldn't fall and draw unnecessary attention. Just a man visiting an ill friend, he thought to himself. Or perhaps my wife just gave birth to our child. That would certainly garner more sympathy, if any staff become too nosy….

Pausing in front of the directory board mounted across from the entry, he let his eyes skim over unnecessary departments such as Obstetrics, Podiatry, Emergency…. Ah, there.

'Phlebotomy Clinic.'

Perhaps the Emergency department would make a good exit once he was finished; it appeared to be located the closest to the hospital's blood donor facility. And why not? If the blood was to be used on incoming patients anyway, why should it travel farther than it needed to?

Starting off down the corridor, he kept his pace measured and his expression neutral. He passed mostly nurses and orderlies who were too absorbed in their duties to pay much attention, visitors or patients looking for specific rooms, the occasional doctor in the white coats that identified their positions, and once, a cheery, pink-pinstriped candy striper with her small cart.

Unfortunately, of all those he passed, he made eye contact with her.

The girl couldn't have been older than 17, and she was nearly impossible to ignore. Between her curly blonde hair, wide blue eyes, and dazzling broad smile, she drew attention like iron filings to a magnet. The man began to feel the weakness returning, brought on by nothing but an overly sunny disposition.

"Good evening, sir!" she chirped, her tone oozing friendliness and the pep of three dozen pep rallies. "Can I interest you in anything for the person you're visiting? Nothing gets somebody back on their feet like a good pick-me-up!" She giggled at her own joke.

"That would be rather difficult," the man said, making his voice as bland and bleak as possible. "My friend was in a rather unfortunate accident and appears to be in a coma."

The smile dropped off the girl's face so quickly that it was nearly comical. "Oh my gosh… that's terrible!" Those blue eyes swam with emotion and what appeared to be the very beginnings of tears. "I hope they come out of it soon. In fact, I'm sure they will — East City has some of the best doctors!"

"Yes, I'm aware." Stepping past her, he continued down the hall, reimagining the moment the annoyingly bright smile had vanished. "Please, excuse me."

"Sir, one moment!"

Annoyance washed over him like high tide, and he took a deep breath before turning to face her. It wouldn't do to snap and draw the stares of onlookers; even the excuse of an ailing friend could only support so much blame. When he turned, the girl was so close, it felt that she was practically nose to nose with him. Taking one of his hands in both of hers, she pressed something into it with that same cheerful smile.

"Here, sir. Perhaps your friend might not need anything, but here's something to keep you going in the meantime. Got to keep your strength up!" Turning, she bounced back to her cart and set off along the hall with a wave. "Take care, now!"

Looking down at the cookie in his hand, the man grimaced at the icing smile drawn across the oatmeal chocolate chip surface. With his teeth gritted, he glanced about to make sure he was unobserved before shoving the thing into the nearest waste bin and stalking off down the hall.

He followed the relevant signs to the phlebotomy clinic, using the time to regain his composure. When he finally reached it, he stood, ostensibly examining another directory board, but watching from the corner of his eye through the open clinic door. Two donors sat in the tiny waiting area, a petite female orderly behind the check-in desk. This woman got up as a male nurse escorted a third donor into the waiting area, and presented him with a cookie and a small paper cup of juice. The nurse disappeared back into the depths of the clinic after an exchange of a few words, taking one of the waiting donors with him.

The man pasted a friendly smile on his face — dim, compared to the candy striper — and headed inside.

"Hello there," he greeted the orderly as she returned to the desk. "I have a flower delivery here for the clinic manager."

"For Mr. Lanceton?" The girl looked puzzled. "I didn't know he liked flowers…. I'm sorry, he's already left for the day. If you like, you can leave them here and he can pick them up first thing in the morning."

The man's smile turned knowing. "It's kind of the idea that he left before I got here. The customer asked specifically that we deliver them after he left at five, so that they would be on his desk first thing tomorrow morning. A nice sort of surprise to start the day, you know?" Leaning over the counter, he gave the girl a wink. "Are you sure you can't let me in there? Just for a minute?"

The girl blushed prettily, looking away. "Well… okay. He usually leaves his office door unlocked, just in case any of us need files or anything after he leaves." She pointed back over her shoulder. "Go ahead – third door on the left. Just be quick, okay?"

"As quick as I can, so that I can get back here and see that cute smile again," he promised, before passing the desk and heading off down the hall.

The right side was apparently devoted entirely to exam rooms, with the left side being reserved for offices… and the cold storage lab. Bypassing the manager's office, the man glanced briefly over his shoulder before hurrying to the lab and slipping inside.

A cool draft pervaded the room, spiralling off the glass-fronted coolers that lined one wall. With it being after five, the lab techs had all gone home for the day, leaving the room empty and dimly lit.

Taking the folded bag from inside the flower bouquet, he dropped the bundle on the floor and kicked it aside, scattering petals and leaves. It had served its purpose. He shook the bag out, his tongue running over gleaming white teeth as he approached the coolers and the life-filled glass bottles stored within. They were lined up in neat rows, their labels showing that they were grouped by type and date.

The man reached in, taking three bottles at random. A, B, O, AB… none of that mattered to him; he was swallowing the stuff, not taking it intravenously. Arranging the bottles in the bag, he selected two more, nestling them alongside the others. His long fingers were just brushing against the sixth and seventh selections when the silence of the lab was shattered.

"What are you doing?!"

When he looked back, the male nurse from earlier was standing in the doorway, a bottle of fresh blood in his hand. One hand rested on the doorknob, his mouth slightly open and eyes wide in surprise.

The man smiled, letting his pointed canine teeth show. "Inventory inspection. For… quality control."

He gripped the open bag in his fist, keeping any of the stolen bottles from spilling out, and launched himself across the room at the nurse. The other saw him coming and took a surprised half-step back before the intruder landed against his chest and forced him to the floor.

Leaning back, the man raised his free hand and brought a newly-formed fist crashing against the nurse's temple. The unfortunate man had time for a single violent twitch, before sharp teeth were buried in his throat. He gasped once, dazed eyes open wide, the sound turning into a wet gurgle as the piercing teeth ripped.

The man didn't wait to see the life drain out of his victim; a shame, really. He enjoyed that part. Taking the bag, he glanced down once at his suit: the chest and entire left arm were covered in a spray of bright red arterial blood, more still coming from the choking, dying man on the floor. There was no way to explain this, no way to calmly walk out of the hospital like nothing was wrong….

Hugging the bag of blood-filled bottles to his chest, the man broke into a run.

The exclamations, when he dashed through the reception area, were more surprised than horrified. Out the door, he turned right, toward the emergency room, hearing the shouts and surprise behind him turn horrified as they realized just what the red stuff on him was.

Patients, visitors, and staff alike pressed themselves out of his way as he hurtled through the halls, often crying out as he passed as they spotted the blood. One or two of them screamed, and an elderly man who had the misfortune to get a clear look at him stopped in his tracks before passing out in shock.

The man burst through the doors into the busy emergency room, skidding to a halt mere feet from the nearest set of chairs. The breath heaved in his chest, his head swivelling this way and that as he tried to locate the exit. A shocked hush fell over the scene, the only sound his own ragged breathing as he breathed in the scents of fear, antiseptic, sickness, and blood.

Two uniformed security guards stepped slowly from an adjacent hallway, their hands resting on the guns holstered at their hips. They paused, eyes taking in the blood on the man's suit and the wild look in the eyes that swung their way.

The man grinned, revealing blood-streaked, pointed white teeth. A woman nearby gasped and clutched her coughing child closer, shrinking away from the man as she did.

"All right, sir," the first guard said cautiously, one hand held out in a calming gesture. "Take it easy. You don't want to make things any worse for yourself than they already are."

"I'm relatively sure that's impossible," the man shot back, still grinning. It wasn't his usual assured, confident smile; his held more than a hint of manicness, betrayed how his brain was tilting toward imbalance… how the bloodlust had its hold and was keeping a firm grip. "At least… things can't get worse for me. You…. You might not be so lucky."

The guard frowned, puzzled. "And just what is that supposed to —"

His words disappeared in screams, both his own and those of the people around him as the man lunged forward. A hand fisted itself around the uniform's tie, dragging the unfortunate man close to where his attacker's teeth could sink into his throat. The man jerked his head back, twisting as he did so for maximum power, feeling the lacerations spread into shreds.

He shoved the dying guard back into his partner, then turned and bolted toward the wide doors across the room. He dodged walkers and canes, leapt empty seats, and pushed bodies from his path regardless of age or health. At one point, a man in dirt- and oil-smudged overalls stood up, a bloody rag wrapped around an injured hand, and attempted to catch the fleeing man in a bear hug. Had he been a fraction of a second faster, he would have succeeded, but the man ducked his would-be captor's arm and shot through the doors into the gathering dusk.

The sun hadn't been down long, probably only having slipped below the horizon a few minutes before. His limbs lacked their full strength to sustain his top running speed, and transferring to a less corporeal form wouldn't be possible until it was a good deal darker.

Slowing to an easy lope, the man headed off along back alleys and little-used streets, his arms wrapped tightly around the bottles of hunger-sating blood.

RECONSTRUCTION OUTPOST OFFICE, JADAD, ISHVAL

0723 HOURS, APRIL 22

He was waiting outside their office when they arrived to begin the work day. Roy stood with his back to the wall beside the front door, his arms folded and his expression entirely composed. Dark eyes watched the two men approaching from across the plaza, not missing the way they exchanged a glance before reaching him.

"You're up early, Colonel," Miles commented, once he and Scar were within earshot. "Did you sleep well?"

"Bold of you to assume I slept at all," was the acerbic answer. Roy shifted to stand straight, but otherwise held his ground. "Given that I was forcibly separated from my Lieutenant thirty seconds after she was screaming her head off for some reason I still don't know, and no one will tell me anything." Hard, dark eyes went from one man to the other and back again. "Nothing about what was wrong, nothing about where she was taken or who she was taken by, and nothing about when she might be back or when I can see her."

Grim-faced as ever, Scar stepped past him, unlocking the door and allowing it to swing open. "Come inside," he said tersely, entering and not bothering to see if he was followed. "You won't want to discuss this out in the open."

Roy couldn't help but glance around as he stepped inside what had once been a single-family house. The door opened into what had likely been a general family/living room, with an archway off to the right leading to what he could only assume was some sort of dining room. A doorway there permitted the barest glimpse of a kitchen area that Scar disappeared into. Stairs in the main room led to a second floor, and — one would assume — what had once been bedrooms.

And every direction he turned, every surface was covered in scrolls, maps, books, blank paper, and writing tools.

"Welcome to our newest outpost of the Reconstruction Office," Miles commented offhandedly. "Perhaps not as tidy as a military office, but it's a functional sort of chaos."

Roy didn't answer, watching as the Major closed the door and moved to kneel behind a low writing desk off to one side. "What's going on that you didn't want to discuss it outside?" he finally asked, moving to where he could see both Miles and Scar, the latter moving about inside the kitchen area to the clinking of earthenware cups.

The warrior priest spoke without looking over. "How long has your Lieutenant been apaavan?" he asked quietly.

"…Has she been…?"

"Apaavan," Miles repeated, already sorting through the books on his desk, apparently in search of one in particular. "It's our word for 'unclean' or 'unholy.'"

For a long moment, all Roy could do was stare at the other man. He was barely aware of Scar re-entering the room, automatically accepting the steaming cup of tea the warrior passed to him. Finally, when he found his voice, all he could think to say was, "…Why would you think she's that?"

"Her reaction to the blessed sand speaks for itself," Scar answered. He settled behind a second writing desk Roy hadn't noticed; the surface was piled so high with maps and scrolls that it was hard to recognize the furniture underneath. "You'll notice that you didn't react when it touched you, but —"

Roy gritted his teeth, cutting across the other man. "Let me get this straight. Lieutenant Hawkeye reacted so strangely because the sand was holy and she was… not?" His felt his fingers tighten on the cup and forced his grip to loosen before he shattered the thing. "Why wouldn't she be?"

"A very good question," Miles commented. Apparently finding the book he wanted, he looked up. "Please, sit, Colonel. Standing can't be that comfortable." He pointed to a cushion in front of his desk, and Roy sank reluctantly onto it. "To answer your good question, it's rather simple. Something the Lieutenant has done has, to oversimplify things, corrupted her soul. That which ties us to God."

Roy's mind flashed him the briefest of images: the way she'd thrown her head back in the back of the truck, literally screaming in pure, unadulterated pleasure —

"What sort of thing could she have done?" he said, forcing his mind back to the task at hand. Taking a cautious, thoughtful sip of tea, he added, "It can't be anything to do with our roles in the civil war, or else I'd be… apaavan?" He glanced at Scar, who nodded confirmation. "— as well. I would have reacted just as badly as she did."

"There can be several reasons a person is considered unclean," Miles assured him. "Things like… well, as Major General Armstrong said once or twice, if there were 'bears in the forest,' so to speak."

Roy lifted one eyebrow, waiting for the other to explain, before Scar quietly cleared his throat. "A woman being on her cycle is considered physically unclean," he clarified. Something in his usually unreadable mask of a face took an uncomfortable edge. "A reaction like the Lieutenant's points to unholiness of the soul, not the body."

"And that returns to the question of how she got that way." Taking another sip of the tea, Roy allowed himself to relax a little in posture; staying angry and uptight wouldn't help Riza any faster. "What causes corruption to a soul?"

Scar's shrug was about as expressive as the man ever got. "In our modern times, it's relegated mostly to what you would 'cardinal sins.' Things like murder, rape, adultery… things on that level. In times past, I would also include pacts with otherworldly beings, selling her soul to a demon, or unnatural creation at the hands of someone like the Homonculi's Father… but those would seem to be a bit farfetched."

Miles had the book open in front of him on the desk, skimming through it carefully. He paused on one page in particular, then looked up. "Possession," he suggested.

Roy went cold all over, seeing again the Central/East City serial killer forcing his blood down Riza’s throat.

Deep frown lines etched Scar's forehead as he thought. "I would consider it more likely than the other supernatural options," he said at last, "but still quite a reach."

"More likely how?" Roy took a sip of his tea to counteract the sudden dryness of his mouth.

The large man shrugged expressively. "There were millions of souls flying loose during the Promised Day," he answered. "If one lost its spiritual connection to its body, it stands to reason it might try and attach itself to another host. And if that host happened to be your Lieutenant, it would create a kind of corruption."

At least he doesn't suspect what I do…. Sitting straight, Roy glanced between the two men, putting his years of command into full play. "Regardless of whatever is causing the problem, I want to see her," he said firmly. "I won't stay separated from a member of my team when they need help."

"No one is saying you should, Colonel," Miles soothed. He gestured toward the stairs before looking back to his book. "We'll continue trying to find an explanation. Your Lieutenant spent the night upstairs, under observation."

It took most of what Roy had not to scramble for the stairs at top speed. He instead forced himself to calmly set down his cup and rise smoothly to his feet. His steps were purposeful but unhurried as he ascended to the second floor, finding Scar's master sitting cross-legged on the floor outside a closed wooden door.

The older man smiled in a fatherlike way, getting to his feet and offering a small bow. "Good morning, Colonel," he said, quietly. "I told her you would be here before too long. I'm pleased to see I was right."

"Thank you for looking after her," he answered, just as quietly. "Is she awake?"

"I believe so, though she's been silent for some time." His expression turned solemn. "As to what happened yesterday at the temple…. Once the two of you have had a chance to catch up, I'd like to go over some of the options for your Lieutenant. On how to help her."

Roy inclined his head in an abbreviated bow. "Thank you. I'll let you know when she's ready. Now, if you don't mind?" He gestured to the door.

When it was opened for him, it was onto a severe interior. The walls and floor were bare, as was the lone window that looked out over the expanse of sandy dirt that was the small building's 'backyard.' The only light came from the window, and Roy stepped inside into shadows that only deepened as the door closed behind him.

"I didn't think you'd keep me waiting long."

His head turned as the voice came from a dark corner, his eyes taking a moment to fully see her as they adjusted to the gloom. Riza was just getting to her feet, one hand on the wall for balance, though she winced and pulled it away after a moment. She still wore the simple desert dress and sash, but the headscarf was gone, allowing her bangs to fall freely into her eyes.

"Hey, there you –"

He broke off, staring as exactly what he was seeing sank in. His feet had only taken a pair of steps in her direction before he froze in his tracks, mouth falling open. A long, loud silence fell before his voicebox remembered its function, although the only words his brain could muster were "…Holy shit."

Riza smiled wryly, though there wasn't much strength behind it. "That seems to be the sentiment of most people who have seen me," she replied, far more calmly than Roy would have thought. She held up her hands, palms out. "Though it's mostly in response to this."

On each palm where her hands had touched as they were cupped to receive the blessed sand was an angry red half-circle. Spreading out from that, as though each vein and capillary were traced in ink, was a network of fine, red lines. It looked like the web of some crazed spider, with the arachnid itself sitting large and menacing in the centre.

Carefully, he took her hands in his, bringing them closer for a better look. Her skin was cool, almost cold to the touch, and pale enough that the red stood out starkly even in the dim light. "Riza… are these burns?"

"Why do you think I screamed?" She tried to gently tug free of his grasp, but he didn't allow her to slip away. "It's all right; our… hosts gave me some salve to take the heat out of them. They're mostly just tender."

"Yeah. Our hosts." He glanced around the room, seeing the sleeping pallet in one corner, the small mirror on the wall, but no other furniture. "Are they treating you all right? Did they let you sleep?"

She was smiling, the expression fond, and tolerant of his worrying. "I've been left to my own devices since ten o'clock last night," she informed him. "The guard outside is for my own protection from any citizen that may have heard what happened, and to assist me if necessary." She shrugged. "He and I talked for a few hours. He's very nice."

His irritation was rising at her apparent disregard for her situation, and Roy had to grit his teeth to stop himself from saying anything too harsh. "Riza, do you know what happened after the blessing went south? Miles and Scar's Master pulled a disappearing act with you, while Scar himself pretty much pinned me to the floor so that I couldn't go after them."

Unable to hold himself back completely, he wrapped her in a fierce hug, burying his nose in the fall of her hair. "I've spent the last twenty hours replaying it all in my head, trying to figure out what happened, hoping you were all right, wondering where you were…. They wouldn't tell me anything, other than that you were in a safe place, that they were looking into it, that the best thing I could do was to keep a low profile and talk to them this morning." He hugged her tighter as her hands rested gently on his back. "Do you have any idea how hard that is?"

"I know. I'm sorry you were so worried." She pulled away just enough so that her hands cupped his face, lifting his head to where she could look him in the eye. "I'm all right. You're all right. Things are going to work out for the better."

But his dark eyes were tracking over her face, scrutinizing, trying to see that comforting shade of brown, but the colour hidden by the shadows. "Are you sure everything's okay with you?" Standing straight, he held her at arms' length for a better look. "You're white as a sheet, your hands are like ice…." His gaze went to the spots of bright colour in her cheeks, and he frowned. One hand lifted to press the back against her forehead, brushing her bangs aside. "You didn't have any problems stemming from those burns? No shock or anything?"

She shook her head, ducking away from his hand. "No, Roy, and I'm not feverish either."

"Okay, okay. I was just checking." The same hand touched her cheek, the gesture intimate rather than analytical, before he leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her cheek. "I have to make sure my Lieutenant is in top form. She knows I'd go under without her."

From the moment he walked in, she was biding her time. It hadn't taken Riza long to discover that even the faint light of morning was enough to kick off the feeling of weakness in her limbs if she stood in it directly. It was the sensation if a body preparing to fall unconscious, though the associated blackness never came.

So, Riza stayed in that shadows, out of the direct fall of sun. She was there when he found her, something inside her chest giving a happy leap at the sight of him. Even with his face in shadow, she could pick out the mixture of worry and relief when those dark eyes landed on her, could see the way the frown lines in his forehead deepened when it was obvious her hands were injured.

She almost pulled him close at the first touch, but forced herself to hold back. She couldn't appear too eager to see him, or risk alerting the Ishvalan outside her door to their illicit little affair. There was the chance that it would be interpreted as relief after being forcibly separated from him under strange circumstances, but until she had a better handle on the culture, it was better not to risk it.

Her eyes stayed on the marks on her hands as he examined them. "Riza, are these burns?"

"Why do you think I screamed?" She watched the neckline of his tunic pull away from his throat as he looked up, his pulse visible as the tiniest flutter of a vein beneath the skin. An overwhelming feeling of desire rose like thick fog in mind, and she tried to tug away from him before she could act upon it… but his hands held fast to hers. "It's all right; our… hosts gave me some salve to take the heat out of them. They're mostly just tender."

"Yeah. Our hosts." Riza's eyes started drifting back toward the side if his neck as his head turned, looking around the small room. "Are they treating you all right? Did they let you sleep?"

She could faintly hear his heartbeat, now that she was consciously listening for it; the sound drew a smile to her lips. "I've been left to my own devices since ten o'clock last night," she answered almost automatically. Her attention was taken up with the steady th-thump th-thump th-thump coming from his chest. "The guard outside is for my own protection from any citizen that may have heard what happened, and to assist me if necessary." She shrugged. "He and I talked for a few hours. He's very nice."

The sound of his teeth clenching carried over the sound of his pulse. When she met his gaze, it was full of frustration, worry, and something close to desperation. "Riza, do you know what happened after the blessing went south? Miles and Scar's Master pulled a disappearing act with you, while Scar himself pretty much pinned me to the floor so that I couldn't go after them."

Roy abruptly wrapped her in a tight hug, and though Riza tried to pay attention to what he said – he was concerned, that much was obvious – the sudden proximity of his heart drowned out the words. Her ear, so close against his neck, could hear nothing but a rushing roar of pumping muscle and flowing blood. Lifting her hands, she settled them on his back, holding hm closer so that she could keep listening to that sound….

And abruptly realized he had stopped speaking and was probably waiting for an answer. "I know. I'm sorry you were so worried." Easing herself away from him, so that she could hear, if nothing else, she cupped his face in both hands. "I'm all right. You're all right. Things are going to work out for the better."

He was watching her closely, brows slowly lowering into a frown. "Are you sure everything's okay with you? You're white as a sheet, your hands are like ice…." He stepped back as he spoke, giving her a brief once-over before reaching up to press the back of one hand against her forehead. "You didn't have any problems stemming from those burns? No shock or anything?"

Ducking away from his hand before he could notice how her eyes looked, she played the evasion off with a smile. She couldn't let him see her eyes just yet; she had seen them in the mirror, but thanks to the dim lighting, he had yet to notice. "No, Roy, and I'm not feverish either."

"Okay, okay. I was just checking." His fingers brushed down one cheek, before he leaned in to press a kiss to the other. "I have to make sure my Lieutenant is in top form. She knows I'd go under without her."

The roar of his pulse sounded briefly again in her ears, and Riza unconsciously moistened her lips with a flick of her tongue. Roy stepped away as suddenly as he had moved closer, heading toward the lone window and leaving her in the centre of the room.

"I have to say, this has taken a turn from how I pictured our return to Ishval," he commented. Riza watched his hands reach reflexively for pockets that weren't there, instead folding behind his back. "But with any luck, we can move past this and get down to business in the next day or two."

Her mind was beginning to drift away from her, most reasoning fading into the background as what felt like mental white noise took over. Her muscles felt loose and lithe, her body moving with more ease of movement than she ever remembered having before.

"Hey." Roy glanced back over his shoulder when she spoke, finding her with her arms held out to him. "I think you and I have some business of our own that needs attending to."

He glanced briefly toward the door, weighing his options; Riza waited. She could wait forever if she needed to… but she knew he wouldn't last long before giving in. After the stresses of the day before, she was the tall drink of cool water for the man just emerging from the desert, and he would not resist her.

When he stepped into her embrace, his arms settling comfortably around her, he was smiling. "Sorry, I thought we were done with this…." He pressed a quick kiss to her forehead. "Though the way you've been going the last few weeks, I shouldn't be surprised."

She smiled, watching the way his eyes dropped toward her lips… and then widened at the sight of her teeth. "I suppose I have been a little… demanding, haven't I."

The takedown happened as though she were dancing with an inordinately clumsy partner. Her arms still around him, Riza twisted sharply on the spot, throwing him off-balance. Roy gave a surprised yell as he started to fall, and she braced herself as his hold on her dragged her along.

He hit the floorboards on his back, with her hugged to his chest. Riza pressed both hands to the floor and pushed herself up, keeping herself astride his chest to ensure he would stay where he was. "Sir, if you keep making noise like that, it's going to be very hard to explain to our hosts," she commented mildly.

"Riza, what the hell –"

"Sshhhhh." She leaned over him, one finger pressed to his lips, though it was a needless gesture. His eyes flitted from her eyes, to her teeth, and back again. "Language, sir, there's a lady present."

Sitting straight, trailed the finger from his lips, down his throat, and to the centre of his chest with feathery lightness. She shook the half-concealing bangs from her eyes, allowing the slit-pupiled amethyst purple to show, her smile hinting at the pointed canine teeth he had already noticed.

"Besides, you've never fought me before. Why start now?"

#fma #fmab #Roy Mustang #Riza Hawkeye #royza #royai #fma fanfiction #royai fanfiction #tainted blood

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hg80summer-blog · 3 years

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Crossing the river

(This story is conceived and finished during the Winter of 2019)

The funeral was held at the languid hillside sixty miles away from the city. Took a man some amount of effort to get here, but that was neither here nor there. What was more “here or there”, however, was the fact that I was sitting in the front seat of the sable and grey hearse, but I had no bloody idea who was the funeral for. I didn't know who that man behind the black and white and grey picture frame was.

Okay, that wasn't entirely the truth. I know the guy was a business partner of my brother’s, but that was literally it. I didn't even know the guy's name for crying out loud, and knowing that fact, the wheels of the hearse still just kept on spinning, like that one dreidel I saw in my friend's house during Hanukkah that just wouldn't stop spinning, and it took my best effort to not just jump out of the car and stab the goddamn tire with a butter knife. What a bunch of assholes.

Earlier the day, I was standing in the man’s living room. His house was blue as anything, and the field outside of his house was green. His family members were standing in front of me, and they all looked miserable, in a way that was not expected from a family who had just lost a loved one. The man, the guy’s son, looked like he simply didn’t care, with his complete and utter indifference and apathy evident by his constantly flattened eyebrows and catatonic face. He dressed like a hobo as well, and not that I had any problems with homeless people, well, to be honest, I had plenty, but disregarding that, the man was at his father’s funeral for the love of all gods. Showing even just a little bit of respect would already be good enough. But no, fuck it, his fat ass just couldn’t have enough cookie for him to show proper grief for his own father’s death.

The woman, bloated looking, presumably the guy's daughter in law, was taking care of a little boy, presumably the guy’s grandson, and she looked somehow elated. She dressed okay, I guess, but good god her taste was awful. Puffy dresses, swollen hairstyle, all just to cover her almost anemic looking body size. Her eyes literally got sucked down back into her skulls, but again, somehow, she looked happy. The funeral was less than a few hours away, and she looked a lot more than just rejoiced. Strangely the couple never talked to each other. The woman kept dealing with the kid, and the guy was just standing around. There was this air of awkwardness, so thick it was like oatmeal, I could eat it with a spoon. They were definitely having a fight.

The kid was… well, a brat. Eight years old, wouldn’t expect him to even know what the date of the day was, let along with the fact that his grandpa had just died and could never wake up like he thought he would. Overweight, tumid, sickly looking. Not the best looking kid I have ever seen.

We were just standing around the living room waiting for something, what exactly? I don’t know, nor did I care. The drivers maybe. I hadn’t talked to any of the people there, and I didn’t, and still, don’t know any of the people in that living room beside my brother. My brother was talking to the husband about something which I couldn't possibly understand, nor did I want to, so I just stood aside with the grey tuxedo I picked this morning just to passively show everyone how little care I had for the funeral. Luckily, no one got it, I guess being discerning wasn’t a trait this family possessed.

Now I was standing in a line, surrounding the guy's coffin. I could see his peaceful but waxed face, with an expression of this horrendous serenity. I remembered that expression, I had seen it before on that one chicken my mother butchered during thanksgiving because a turkey was just too big for a family of single parents. The funeral had gone on for a while, and I was over it a long time ago, so I just spaced out and started to think of random crap that would be more entertaining than the songs they were playing. My car, my warehouse, my colleagues, my career, my love, my wife’s tits, my mistress’ tits, fuck, fuck, fuck…

As my thoughts ran wild, I started to look around to seek other stimulations. The family members were standing on the other side of the coffin opposite of me, all standing there looking like kids being punished standing in the hallway. The coffin separated us, and I started imagining it as a river. That side was the family member’s, and me and my brother and other business associates were on this side. Maybe Moses was in the middle, splitting the Red Sea with God’s will. Okay, Moses was not in the middle, the dead man was, and I don’t know his name. Maybe his name was Moses, that would be an interesting coincidence.

The mother, just couldn't stop wailing with her lungs hung wide open, like she was afraid the people over that side of the hill wouldn’t be able to hear her ghastly voice. By god it was unbearable. Howling, howling, couldn’t stop her own noise from escaping from her own throat! The dead man's son hadn't even made a significant expression, and this woman just wouldn't shut it up. Was she faking it? I wondered. The kid standing next to the woman looked as bewildered as I was. The only difference was, I wasn't sucking my middle finger.

Then the songs were over. It was time for us to wrap it all up. Me and my brothers and an entire line of business-suited men walked up to the family and shook their hands to express our condolences, which regrettably but not so remorsefully, I had none. I saw my brother in front of me shaking the little boy's hand as well, which I was just thinking of ignoring the brats cause what the fuck would he know? He probably thought his grandpa was just taking a morning nap in a strange wooden box. But my brother had started it, so I have no choice. After I shook my hand with the wailing woman, which was all wet with her tears, I proffered my hand to the boy, and the boy took it, quite competently, to my surprise. I tried my best to not have such a tight grip, so I wouldn't scare the boy or made him realize that I really didn't give a crap. Honestly, if he noticed it, I wouldn’t care either. Who would expect anyone to give a shit about some complete stranger’s eternal relief? He was dead. So what? They didn’t even look that devastated anyway.

The boy looked up at me mid handshake. And he smiled.

"Congratulations." He uttered.

The room was drenched with silences, and the silence was coated upon the already natural quietness of an almost ending funeral like jelly coating a Black Forest cake. So thick, so goddamn thick, flies wouldn't be able to fly through the silence. I panicked. My hands jumped away by themselves, and my vision shook like a bad family VHS video.

His mom slapped him right across the face and screamed at him for his insolence. The boy didn’t cry, in fact, he still looked just as confused as ever, rubbing his swollen cheek with his little hands, not realizing why his mother had just slapped him in front of so many people, or why was she yelling right at his face. I tried to calm the woman down by telling her he was just a kid, and I am sure he has no bad intention, and kids always just blab random stuff, and we shouldn’t scorn a kid in public like that, and how that might hurt a kid’s pride, and how that is not healthy for a kid’s growth, and how it meant no offense for sure, but the woman didn’t care, she was just screaming, crying.

The husband, the dead guy’s son, did nothing. He just stood there, staring at the dead man’s face.

The funeral was done, but my hands were still shaking. The mother was still scorning the kid, and I don’t get why? Why me? I am not the first in line. There were like dozens of men in front of me, all had shaken the kid’s hand, along with his parents'? It is because I was at the back end of the line? Well, there were still enough people behind me. So why me? Is it my wrongdoing? I mean, the kid was eight, or nine, or ten already. He is not stupid. He definitely knows better to not say things like “Congratulations” in such an unseemly time? Congratulating what? His grandfather’s death? Why would a kid be so vicious? Then it hits me. The family might be estranged. They might not like the grandpa that much. The kid might never even know grandpa that well. Grandpa might be abusive. That might explain the joy the wife had experienced. Or the husband’s indifferences. The grandpa might not be that good of a person after all. The family oozed exhaustion. They looked tiresome. Maybe, the old man was still a part of their family, no matter how abusive of a person he was. Maybe the wife thought she would be glad that the abusive old fart was gone, but then when she was standing in front of his coffin, she still couldn’t control her grief and sadness. Maybe she was not faking when she cried. The husband might have hated his father’s guts, but still couldn't figure a way to deal with his passing and the affairs and the inheritance business that followed. That could explain his numbing reactions to all these. Maybe the couple was having fights nonstop for the past few weeks. Arguing about the funeral, the death, the house, the legacy, and their kids. That could explain why they never talked to each other. But they still love each other. Even with all the arguments and exhaustion, they still love each other. That was why even though they never talked, the wife would still put her husband’s hat on for him, and the husband would carry their son if the wife got tired. Maybe the wife slapped the kid just because she was breaking, and she couldn’t control himself. Maybe the kid said the word, not because I had done something wrong, or out of any vicious intent. He said the word just because he was a kid. The kid didn’t even look happy. He looked tiresome as well. His chubby little face looked cute and childish, but look further into the details, his high forehead, disheveled black hair, enormous blackened eye bags, and a look of deep exhaustion in his sunken eyes, all features that would be normal on a fifty years old’s face, no an eight years old’s. The kid might be having a hard time as well. His word might just be a slip. I mean, how could anyone assume malicious intent from an eight years old little… uh… little…

Little…

Huh.

I don’t know his name.

I don’t really… know them, this family.

The thought stopped all my tracks. I chewed on it, tasteless, but interesting.

I don’t know, any of them.

Not their name, not their past, nothing.

Huh.

When I walked outside for some fresh air, the family had left the scene long ago. I stood at the top of the hill, looking down, seeing them going back on their car, and their engine starting, and their car slowly going away. The sky looked cloudier. The car was going away, leaving the hill, and crossing the river now. Finally, it disappeared from my vision. If they were still here, I might have asked them their names. I thought to myself. My brother came out and told me to get ready to leave, but I told him I want a moment, he gave me one. I just stood there, staring at the spot where their car disappeared on the other side of the river.

The end

#short story #literature #practice writing #old work #writing

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alicethecook · 5 years

Text

Delicious Spicy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

New Post has been published on https://homekitchen.info/delicious-spicy-oatmeal-raisin-cookies/

Delicious Spicy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Homemade meals as well as desserts can be less complicated to make than you think, and also great for your household.

There’s a quick and also very easy way to help your youngsters become happier and also healthier-try planning and preparing a dish together.

Cooking as a family task is fun as well as can be remarkably quick. Preparing an enjoyable meal or treat from scrape can take less time than eating out.

One more advantage of scratch food preparation is that it enables you to much better control the sorts of components you take in. As individuals look for methods to stay clear of trans fats and also food allergens, lower sugar as well as salt consumption, as well as boost entire grains, vegetables and fruits in their diet regimens, making meals from the ground up has actually been “uncovered.” And also the tasty results will certainly please the entire household, especially when you prepare it together.

Begin with the proper preparation and see to it to equip your pantry and kitchen as well as fridge freezer with fresh components for healthy as well as easy recipes. Prior to cooking breads, muffins or cookies, make sure you have actually examined your baking powerhouses-baking soda and also cooking powder, as well as seasonings, corn starch as well as flour. Replace any that are a year old. If in doubt, start new and also day each thing to make certain you’ll be advised following year.

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Below’s a simple entire grain oat meal cookie to attempt:

Spicy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

1 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 mug brownish sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

11/2 cups versatile flour

1 1/2 tsps fresh baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats. Don’t use instant, there is a difference.

8 oz. raisins

1 1/2 tsps cinnamon

1/2 tsp allspice

Preheat oven to 375 ° F.

Using your stand up mixer, cream well the butter, adding the sugars until light as well as fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition. Scrape the bowl well, the butter tends to climb up the sides. Beat in vanilla. In a different medium sized bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda as well as salt. With your stand mixer set to medium, add the dry ingredients slowly to butter mix and stir until blended. Stir in oats, raisins, cinnamon and allspice.

Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoon onto greased baking sheets. Bake until the cookies are light brown, about 15 mins. After a few minutes cool on cake rack.

Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

Cooking as a family task is enjoyable and can be surprisingly fast. Beginning with the correct preparation and make certain to equip your kitchen and fridge freezer with fresh ingredients for simple as well as healthful recipes. Prior to cooking muffins, breads or cookies, make certain you have inspected your baking powerhouses-baking soda and baking powder, as well as seasonings, corn starch and flour. If in question, start brand-new and write the date on each item to make sure you’ll be reminded next time.

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#baking cookies #how to bake

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valkyrieelysia18 · 7 years

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In Thoughts, All Alone

Summer Rose could fully admit that Team STRQ was not the most emotional stable team in her year. In other words, the four them were so deeply messed up it's a wonder how none of them had snapped by now. All anyone would need to see the truth of it was in the coping mechanisms.

For example, Taiyang was usually a pleasant person to be around, but when he got stressed or frustrated, he tended to take it out on others. Not physically, but in a way Summer thought what really happened was worse. His pranks would go from generally light hearted to somewhat spiteful and bullying. Then there was he'd talk that to him was joking, but could off as rather cruel and insensitive to those he was talking to. Summer couldn't count the number times she had to apologize and the number of times those apologies were NOT accepted.

Whereas the blonde's behavior might pass people's attention if they didn't see it that often, Qrow's vice was obvious. Summer was eternally grateful to Headmaster Ozpin for banning Qrow from leaving Beacon back while she had been unconscious. His tendency to blame himself because of his semblance and his liking for alcohol was a dangerous combination. It was in worse in that Qrow wouldn't talk about it, whenever she reached out he flinched away like she physically hurt him.

And then there was Raven.....oh boy.....

There wasn't the words to describe what Raven Branwen was capable of when she was emotionally...compromised.

And the only reason I haven't dragged them all into counseling is because I'm probably the worst of them all. Summer sighed as she piped the icing onto the sixth dozen strawberry cupcakes (her third type of sweet for that evening aside the oatmeal raisin cookies and the tiramisu) she had baked that night.

The kitchens at Beacon were quiet at night especially on the weekends, which was just the way Summer liked it. She had taken to coming here to bake whenever her nightmares got a bit too much for her. Luckily, her teammates had gone to the city earlier which left her to her own devices.

All of the cupcakes iced, she put the piping bag she was using off to the side and went over to the strawberries she had prepared earlier. As she arranged them in a way that was aesthetically pleasing on her sweets, she sighed. She knew it wasn't healthy to go into a baking frenzy whenever she dreamed about her past, but it was honestly the only way she COULD handle it. The main problem was the lack of sleep and the massive amounts of sweets that she definitely couldn't finish on her own (most of the time she shared in the first class she had that morning, giving the students and the teachers a much appreciated morning kick).

Of her teammates, only Raven had noticed it was a problem. She could still recall the swordswoman's words from the last time. "Enough with the baking Summer! If this keeps up, our ranking is going to fall! I don't know what priorities you were raised with, but out there we live and die by our ability to fight! Though, I suppose someone like you would never understand that....."

Qrow had told her off, Tai tried to talk some sense into her; but neither of them really noticed Summer's reaction to it all. And she supposed a part of her was grateful towards that.

She closed her eyes, her hands ceasing with decorating as she felt the flashes of her nightmares come to her.

The howl of the pack of Beowolves....

"Go! We'll meet you back at the old tree! I promise!"

".....Alright. Please be safe."

A kiss to the forehead as tears stream down a face that looked very similar to hers.

The unearthly screech that made her truly afraid for the first time in her life.

The same face lying still in death, smiling as if at peace. A gray cloak lying not too far away, tattered and stained with blood.....

The same blood on her hands.

Taking in a deep breath, Summer came back to the kitchen. It took a few minutes of steady breathing on her own to fully realize where she was. She bit her lip, hugging herself as she hunched over. You're right Raven, I'm not like you. I can't just turn whatever I feel in to fighting.

It took a full five minutes for her to calm down. It was pretty vivid tonight, why is that?

She took out her Scroll; checking to see if her teammates had called her and seeing the time was well past midnight. As well as seeing the date which made 'Click!' in her mind. "Oh right......it's my birthday....."

She had honestly forgotten. Then again, it's not like she really celebrated it. Tai was always excited when it came to his birthday and whatever he planned whereas the Branwens stated that where they came from birthdays were celebrated communally all at once rather than individually (they also mentioned something of a Coming of Age Ceremony that neither wanted to go into great details over). But Summer.....

She never really celebrated her birthday because no one celebrated it with her.

A thought struck her as she got up to where one of the drawers were, finding a lone little birthday candle with matches. Perfect.

Sticking the candle onto the last cupcake (which had no strawberries on top) and lighting it, Summer smiled as she felt herself talk to someone who was long gone. "Hey Dad....another year, gone by. I promise, next time I'm doing this at your grave where it's not so weird. But, you were the one who made a big deal about my birthday, so yeah.....I'm doing this now.

"School's been going okay. I mean, it's school so it's not all fun. My team's been doing really good on rankings though we definitely have things we can improve on. My teammates are really good people at heart....admittedly, it took a while for me to see Raven's good side. Sometimes, I'm jealous of them; Raven's confidence, Tai's charisma, Qrow's ability to just keep going no matter what. But honestly Dad, I wish you could have met them. I get the feeling you'd have liked them.

"I wonder what you'd also think of my teachers. It's funny; the more I see of Headmaster Ozpin, the more I think you two would have probably gotten along well. I don't know why, I mean for goodness' sakes, you hated coffee and you were never distant with anyone."

She took a deep breath before she continued. "So, I'm fine. If Mom's there with you, tell her I said hi. If she's not there......well, I miss you. That's all I wanted to say."

Summer leaned forward, blowing out the candle. She then proceeded to eat the tiny strawberry cake slowly. It really was good, though had cooled a bit. Once it was done, she remembered all of her other sweets. Better store these in the containers. Then maybe I should get some shut eye.

Feeling the stream of sunlight coming through the windows, Summer groaned at having to wake up. Five more minutes....

Still, she knew she couldn't sleep the Sunday (and her birthday) away. Her eyes fluttered open slowly, her mouth opening into a slight yawn.

And it was in that moment that she fully awake, she noticed that right in front of her on the table she had been resting on was a small wrapped package.

She picked it up cautiously, unwrapping the present. Wait, is this for me...but I never told anyone about my birthday.

Her thoughts failed her as she opened the small box. A silver necklace was there in the art deco style; silver curled stems leading into a rose with a white pearl dangling down.

It's so beautiful, but who would get this for me? It looks way too expensive for Tai, Qrow, or Raven to go for. Because I'm pretty sure this is real silver.

Then she noticed something missing rather than something new. "Where'd the tiramisu go?!"

Feels a little unfinished, but this is where I'd stop this for now. Might do a sequel. Or something with Rose Garden.

So a couple of hints were dropped of what I head canon as Summer's backstory. They weren't all clear, but I kind of made them vague on purpose. Let's just say I have a very sad twisted head canon on the Silver Eyes that may come up again in a future writing. Summer's father may also make another appearance, my version's name being Yue Rose.

Let's face it, everyone is pretty messed. Some are just more obvious about it.

And anyone who knows what tiramisu is can probably guess who left the gift.

#rwby #teams strq #taiyang xiao long #raven branwen #qrow branwen #coping mechanism #My writing #all of team strq is messed up #summer rose

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kitchensinkblog · 7 years

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All I can say is that these are moist and chewy. The olive oil imparts a wonderful flavour and you would not even know that I cut the sugar and added date syrup.

They turned out a little flatter than I had anticipated, but that is because I made a few adjustments of my own to the recipe. I have a link to the original recipe.

Chocolate Skor Olive Oil Oatmeal Cookies

What you need: 1 ½ cups of brown sugar, packed 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, softened ½ cup good quality olive oil ½ cup date syrup 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups oatmeal 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp sea salt 2 cups dark chocolate, coarsely chopped or chips ½ cup skor pieces Sea salt flakes for the tops (optional)

What to do: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Make sure you have a rack in the top third of your oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silpat. In an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream your brown sugar, butter, oil and granulated sugar on medium speed until fully incorporated. Add the eggs + vanilla and mix on medium until everything is well blended. Take the bowl out of the mixer. In a medium bowl whisk together all-purpose flour, oatmeal, baking powder, baking soda and sea salt. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and fold until the cookie dough is barely blended. You still want to see streaks of flour. Add the chocolate chunks and skor pieces and fold until just mixed.* Gently roll into 2 tablespoon-sized balls, place on a parchment-covered baking sheet and allow about 2 inches of space between the dough balls. I like to freeze the dough balls for about 10 minutes prior to baking. Bake the cookies in the top third of the oven for about 11 minutes. They will look slightly underdone. Fresh out of the oven, sprinkle with the sea salt flakes. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes post baking and then move to a cooling rack to finish cooling down

*Rebecca - the author of the recipe says that at this point, you could put the dough, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, in the fridge for several days, if you want to make the cookies another day. Additionally, you could also roll the dough into balls, freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet and then shove them in a resealable plastic bag and put back in the freezer to have cookies on-demand…just add a minute or two to the bake time.

Makes About 3 Dozen Cookies

#olive oil cookies

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bountyofbeads · 5 years

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Migrant children describe neglect at Texas border facility

https://apnews.com/46da2dbe04f54adbb875cfbc06bbc615

The way these children are being treated is INHUMANE, BARBARIC, CRUEL, DIABOLICAL, HEARTLESS, MERCILESS, UNCOMPASSIONATE, and UNSYMPATHETIC. I DON'T understand how the so called religious right can stand by and let these children be treated this way.

Jesus said to them, “Let the little childrencome to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Migrant children describe neglect at Texas border facility

By CEDAR ATTANASIO, GARANCE BURKE AND MARTHA MENDOZA | Published June 20, 2019 | AP | Posted June 21, 2019 |

EL PASO, Texas (AP) — A 2-year-old boy locked in detention wants to be held all the time. A few girls, ages 10 to 15, say they've been doing their best to feed and soothe the clingy toddler who was handed to them by a guard days ago. Lawyers warn that kids are taking care of kids, and there's inadequate food, water and sanitation for the 250 infants, children and teens at the Border Patrol station.

The bleak portrait emerged Thursday after a legal team interviewed 60 children at the facility near El Paso that has become the latest place where attorneys say young migrants are describing neglect and mistreatment at the hands of the U.S. government.

Data obtained by The Associated Press showed that on Wednesday there were three infants in the station, all with their teen mothers, along with a 1-year-old, two 2-year-olds and a 3-year-old. There are dozens more under 12. Fifteen have the flu, and 10 more are quarantined.

Three girls told attorneys they were trying to take care of the 2-year-old boy, who had wet his pants and no diaper and was wearing a mucus-smeared shirt when the legal team encountered him.

"A Border Patrol agent came in our room with a 2-year-old boy and asked us, 'Who wants to take care of this little boy?' Another girl said she would take care of him, but she lost interest after a few hours and so I started taking care of him yesterday," one of the girls said in an interview with attorneys.

Law professor Warren Binford, who is helping interview the children, said she couldn't learn anything about the toddler, not even where he's from or who his family is. He is not speaking.

Binford described that during interviews with children in a conference room at the facility, "little kids are so tired they have been falling asleep on chairs and at the conference table."

She said an 8-year-old taking care of a very small 4-year-old with matted hair couldn't convince the little one to take a shower.

"In my 22 years of doing visits with children in detention I have never heard of this level of inhumanity," said Holly Cooper, who co-directs University of California, Davis' Immigration Law Clinic and represents detained youth.

The lawyers inspected the facilities because they are involved in the Flores settlement, a Clinton-era legal agreement that governs detention conditions for migrant children and families. The lawyers negotiated access to the facility with officials, and say Border Patrol knew the dates of their visit three weeks in advance.

Many children interviewed had arrived alone at the U.S.-Mexico border, but some had been separated from their parents or other adult caregivers including aunts and uncles, the attorneys said.

Government rules call for the children to be held by the Border Patrol for no longer than 72 hours before they are transferred to the custody of Health and Human Services, which houses migrant youth in facilities around the country.

Government facilities are overcrowded and five immigrant children have died since late last year after being detained by Customs and Border Protection. A teenage mother with a premature baby was found last week in a Texas Border Patrol processing center after being held for nine days by the government.

In an interview this week with the AP, acting Customs and Border Protection Commissioner John Sanders acknowledged that children need better medical care and a place to recover from their illnesses. He urged Congress to pass a $4.6 billion emergency funding package includes nearly $3 billion to care for unaccompanied migrant children.

He said that the Border Patrol is holding 15,000 people, and the agency considers 4,000 to be at capacity.

"The death of a child is always a terrible thing, but here is a situation where, because there is not enough funding ... they can't move the people out of our custody," Sanders said.

The arrival of thousands of families and children at the border each month has not only strained resources but thrust Border Patrol agents into the role of caregivers, especially for the many migrant youth who are coming without parents.

But children at the facility in Clint, which sits amid the desert scrubland some 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of El Paso, say they have had to pick up some of the duties in watching over the younger kids.

A 14-year-old girl from Guatemala said she had been holding two little girls in her lap.

"I need comfort, too. I am bigger than they are, but I am a child, too," she said.

Children told lawyers that they were fed oatmeal, a cookie and a sweetened drink in the morning, instant noodles for lunch and a burrito and cookie for dinner. There are no fruits or vegetables. They said they'd gone weeks without bathing or a clean change of clothes.

A migrant father, speaking on condition of anonymity because of his immigration status, told AP Thursday that authorities separated his daughter from her aunt when they entered the country. The girl would be a second grader in a U.S. school.

He had no idea where she was until Monday, when one of the attorney team members visiting Clint found his phone number written in permanent marker on a bracelet she was wearing. It said "U.S. parent."

"She's suffering very much because she's never been alone. She doesn't know these other children," said her father.

Republican Congressman Will Hurd, whose district includes Clint, said "tragic conditions" playing out on the southern border were pushing government agencies, nonprofits and Texas communities to the limit.

"This latest development just further demonstrates the immediate need to reform asylum laws and provide supplemental funding to address the humanitarian crisis at our border," he said.

Dr. Julie Linton, who co-chairs the American Academy of Pediatrics Immigrant Health Special Interest Group, said CBP stations are not an appropriate place to hold children.

"Those facilities are anything but child friendly," said Dr. Julie Linton. "That type of environment is not only unhealthy for children but also unsafe."

The Trump administration has been scrambling to find new space to hold immigrants as it faces criticism that it's violating the human rights of migrant children by keeping so many of them detained.

San Francisco psychoanalyst Gilbert Kliman, who has evaluated about 50 children and parents seeking asylum, says the trauma is causing lasting damage.

"The care of children by children constitutes a betrayal of adult responsibility, governmental responsibility," he said.

___

Burke reported from San Francisco. Mendoza reported from Santa Cruz, California.

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gyrlversion · 5 years

Text

Migrant Children Describe Neglect, Mistreatment At Texas Border Facility

EL PASO, Texas (AP) — A 2-year-old boy locked in detention wants to be held all the time. A few girls, ages 10 to 15, say they’ve been doing their best to feed and soothe the clingy toddler who was handed to them by a guard days ago. Lawyers warn that kids are taking care of kids, and there’s inadequate food, water and sanitation for the 250 infants, children and teens at the Border Patrol station.

Three girls told attorneys they were trying to take care of the 2-year-old boy, who had wet his pants and no diaper and was wearing a mucus-smeared shirt when the legal team encountered him.

“A Border Patrol agent came in our room with a 2-year-old boy and asked us, ‘Who wants to take care of this little boy?’ Another girl said she would take care of him, but she lost interest after a few hours and so I started taking care of him yesterday,” one of the girls said in an interview with attorneys.

Law professor Warren Binford, who is helping interview the children, said she couldn’t learn anything about the toddler, not even where he’s from or who his family is. He is not speaking.

Binford described that during interviews with children in a conference room at the facility, “little kids are so tired they have been falling asleep on chairs and at the conference table.”

She said an 8-year-old taking care of a very small 4-year-old with matted hair couldn’t convince the little one to take a shower.

“In my 22 years of doing visits with children in detention I have never heard of this level of inhumanity,” said Holly Cooper, who co-directs University of California, Davis’ Immigration Law Clinic and represents detained youth.

Many children interviewed had arrived alone at the U.S.-Mexico border, but some had been separated from their parents or other adult caregivers including aunts and uncles, the attorneys said.

He said that the Border Patrol is holding 15,000 people, and the agency considers 4,000 to be at capacity.

“The death of a child is always a terrible thing, but here is a situation where, because there is not enough funding … they can’t move the people out of our custody,” Sanders said.

A 14-year-old girl from Guatemala said she had been holding two little girls in her lap.

“I need comfort, too. I am bigger than they are, but I am a child, too,” she said.

Children told lawyers that they were fed oatmeal, a cookie and a sweetened drink in the morning, instant noodles for lunch and a burrito and cookie for dinner. There are no fruits or vegetables. They said they’d gone weeks without bathing or a clean change of clothes.

“She’s suffering very much because she’s never been alone. She doesn’t know these other children,” said her father.

Republican Congressman Will Hurd, whose district includes Clint, said “tragic conditions” playing out on the southern border were pushing government agencies, nonprofits and Texas communities to the limit.

“This latest development just further demonstrates the immediate need to reform asylum laws and provide supplemental funding to address the humanitarian crisis at our border,” he said.

Dr. Julie Linton, who co-chairs the American Academy of Pediatrics Immigrant Health Special Interest Group, said CBP stations are not an appropriate place to hold children.

“Those facilities are anything but child friendly,” said Dr. Julie Linton. “That type of environment is not only unhealthy for children but also unsafe.”

The Trump administration has been scrambling to find new space to hold immigrants as it faces criticism that it’s violating the human rights of migrant children by keeping so many of them detained.

San Francisco psychoanalyst Gilbert Kliman, who has evaluated about 50 children and parents seeking asylum, says the trauma is causing lasting damage.

“The care of children by children constitutes a betrayal of adult responsibility, governmental responsibility,” he said.

Burke reported from San Francisco. Mendoza reported from Santa Cruz, California.

REAL LIFE. REAL NEWS. REAL VOICES.

Help us tell more of the stories that matter from voices that too often remain unheard.

The post Migrant Children Describe Neglect, Mistreatment At Texas Border Facility appeared first on Gyrlversion.

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ezrecrack · 5 years

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The Top Healthy Snacks To Pack For A Kayak Trip

What Kind Of Snacks Should I Pack For A Kayaking Trip?

Paddling, kayaking, canoeing—these are all extremely fun activities that can get you addicted in no time. But while they are a lot of fun, they are also very tiring. And you don’t have to experience it to know that running low on energy mid-paddle is the worst. Not only will you struggle to make it back to shore, you also wouldn’t get to enjoy the rest of your trip.

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If you’re going to visit one of the top kayaking destinations in the country, you’re going to need more than a kayak and arm strength. You’re going to need food.

More importantly, you will need healthy snacks that can refill your energy levels in no time. You need snacks that can increase your longevity. You will want healthy snacks that are easy to prepare and easy to carry. This means you will only bring simple meals. Taking heavy snacks can put a little extra weight on your kayak, making it that much harder to navigate.

Here are the top 10 healthiest snacks that you should take with you on your next kayaking trip.

1. Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter and Banana

Rice cakes are full of carbohydrates, which your body can convert into energy. But on top of that, it’s also a delicious snack that’s easy to prepare. You can swap the peanut butter for almond or another nut, depending on your preference.

For this, you need to pack the rice cakes in something solid to prevent crumbling. The fiber and protein can keep you going for a long time, and it doesn’t take too much space in your storage. It’s the perfect snack for a kayaking trip!

2. Energy Balls

Energy balls are serious contenders when it comes to the “best snack options for kayakers”. Not only are they packed with calories, protein, and fiber (hence the “energy” part of the name), they are also made into compact balls that are easy to store and eat on the go.

Most energy balls contain nuts, dried fruits, and some kind of sweetener to add a little more to the energizing factor. You can throw a dozen into a small container and never run out of snacks while you paddle.

You can make one yourself with the following ingredients: 150g oatmeal, 110g peanut or almond butter, 75g cup chocolate chips, 75g cup honey or maple syrup, 75g cup soaked dates, 50g cup shelled hemp seeds, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp salt.

All you have to do is put all the ingredients into a food processor and blend for about 10 seconds, or until all the ingredients are mixed together (but not too fine). Remove it from the processor and then roll into small balls, and then put it on the fridge. It should be ready after 2 hours.

3. Trail Mix

Trail mix is a classic choice among kayakers. You can try the prepackaged ones from the grocery store, but if you want to make sure it’s healthier, you can make one on your own. This way, you can choose your favorite additions and put it into the trail mix.

Try making your own with a selection of the following ingredients: cashews, goji berries, brazil nuts, yogurt-covered raisins, dried mango, roasted almonds, dried apples, chocolate-covered peanuts, or a dark chocolate bar cut into pieces.

You can choose your own ingredients, but make sure it’s not overloaded with chocolate items so that it still offers you a lot of nutritional value.

4. Homemade Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is also a good choice because it’s a high protein snack. It’s also satisfying and delicious. But in-store beef jerky is often full of sodium and other unhealthy additives, so you may want to consider making one at home instead.

5. Salt and Vinegar Roasted Chickpeas

Chickpeas are known for being full of nutrients. They contain 15 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of dietary fiber per serving. Snacking on chickpeas will therefore help you stay fueled and satisfied on your paddling trips.

If you want to make them more delicious, roasting chickpeas with salt and vinegar will infuse them with lots of flavor.

6. Pitas

Pitas are perfect for kayaking trips because you can put lots of stuff in them, depending on what you want. Try PB&J, honey, sausage slices, smoked salmon, tuna, cheese, dried beef, etc.

They are also very easy to prepare. But because pitas are somewhat fragile, store them on the top of your food bag.

7. Backcountry Smorgasbord

This one is in between a snack and a meal. Buy your favorite cheese, crackers, cold cuts, raw veggies, or other dips, and then assemble on a plate or cutting board during a break from paddling. This of course requires a bit of preparation. Pre-cut the items as necessary and store them near the top of your food pack for easy access and assembly.

8. Dehydrated Yogurt

To dehydrate Greek yogurt, you need to spread a thin and even layer over parchment paper laid on a cookie sheet. Make sure that the yogurt is just thick enough that you can’t see the parchment paper underneath. Dehydrate at 135 degrees for approximately seven hours. When that’s done, you can peel it off the parchment paper quite easily. Cut the dehydrated yogurt into pieces and pack in a plastic bag. Once you are on your paddling trip, just add water to it in a small bowl and mix. Top it with nuts, honey, etc.

9. Ants on a Log

This one is a classic kids snack that is actually refreshing and nutritious. It’s great for a day on the water. Just pre-cut three stalks of celery into two inch pieces, and then spread some all-natural peanut butter in the hollow space. Top it with raisins or even dried cranberries. Now you have a snack that’s delicious and filling.

10. Apples

Now if you don’t want to prepare anything, just having a few apples in your bag can go a long way. They hold up extremely well in a pack and taste fantastic. They’re also very crunchy and satisfying. You don’t even have to peel them. If in doubt, bring out the apples.

Our Recommendation: The EZ Rec-Rack Roof Top Kayak Loading System

If you’re going to invest on a kayak carrier, why not go for one of the best in the market? With the EZ Rec-Rack Roof Top Loading System for kayaks, you can load your kayak all by yourself—and in just a little over a minute!

EZ Rec-Rack is changing the game and revolutionizing the industry by being the first and only kayak carrier that lets you load and unload your kayak by yourself! With this roof-mounted carrier, you can strap your kayak on and then easily slide it on top of the minivan.

This piece of innovation was developed, crafted, and patented by Ira Mercurio after realizing that this has never been done before. With the right attachments, you can load your paddle boards, surf boards, cargo boxes, etc!

This multipurpose loading system gives kayakers the ability to just enjoy their trip and not sweat the small stuff. This way, you can focus more of your energy on having fun and doing what you love: whether it’s a relaxing trip on peaceful lakes, or a more challenging adventure in twisting rivers.

Get the EZ Rec-Rack Roof Top Loading System today!

http://bit.ly/2FFqp3h

What To Look For In A Roof Top Kayak Carrier Top 10 Kayak Destinations In MI

What is the easier 1 person kaya loading sysem

Buying A Kayak Carrier Online

What To Know About Kayaking Alone

Best Places To Kayak In Alabama

Is Kabrewing Safe?

Roof Rack Car Racks

Top 5 Destinations in Florida for Kayaking

from EZ Rec-Rack http://bit.ly/2WkPqGl

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turnerkeene6-blog · 5 years

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How to Get The Best Online Marijuana Seedbank

Sera Chews CBD Chia is often a superseed. The medical benefits of Chia cannot be overstated. Just check the gram for gram financial spread betting Chia and also other foods down further. An astonishing fact of Chia is the way contains 8x more Omega 3's than Salmon!chia-seeds Chia is in order to integrate into almost any food. I eat Chia every holiday weekend. This morning I mixed Chia with my eggs, of course you can also goes well with oatmeal or cereal. Chia comes either as a seed, or as a ground talc. With both products you come to enjoy the cost health importance.

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Octomom was given the cannabidiol card only two days after leaving rehab to be with her Xanax substance addiction. She consumes marijuana in baked goods such as cookies. Octomom uses marijuana both within your own and when she is making appearances. Despite that, she doesn't use marijuana when the nannies remain. Kevin: Avoid. Absolutely. I think it's good to people to totally realize the amount of those that are going to site for information. The novice your friend's blog. Hemp Oil, which proceeds from the Hemp Plant has been used for thousands of years, don't just as a fix for those coping with eczema, however for dozens of medical problems, especially skin problems. One of would like for this the oil is an excellent moisturizer. May perhaps possibly easily hydrate and revitalize your skin pores. When it depends on your health and wellbeing, just the very best will will. Tragically, there are some people who will suffer from reoccurring and chronic symptoms, no matter they try to treat these individuals. Such symptoms can greatly take their toll relating to the overall life. Many times, prescription medicines are only so effective, or have several side effects or undesirable qualities for that may often hurt as up to they enable. In some of these cases, medical cannabis may be an effective and herbal and safe treatment feature. The only way to find out if it is usually right a person personally is by seeing a physician at medicinal marijuana clinics. Many countries and companies have found great success in manufacturing with bi-products from Hemp Legal. The products we use every day can become better and are usually more lasting then products enhance with petroleum based products. This really is found inside plastics that may be composed of hemp cooking oils. Auto manufacturers can make panels and a few other components form hemp based resins. It is considered to have strength of carbon fiber is important. "This is likely to create your new agricultural industry in our state. For one, we import lots of our sisal twine from Indonesia and places overseas to wrap our vineyards and hop fields. If we grow hemp ourselves, simply as we can supply all of our twine," Shea added. We can use nanoscopic metals to soaps for coloration and anti-bacterial properties. A lot of use titanium powder to get these effects and these are extremely white soaps. Some metals like nickel, aluminium, and silver are rarely used in soap making, but have got the anti-bacterial property. Their working method simple. These metals have electron-rubbing methods. When they come up-to-date with bacterial, they strip electrons contrary to the bacteria's surface and get rid of the bacteria. Sometimes, these metals remain on the inside skin for long time after washing plus prevent bacterial contamination and a number of get gone bad odors caused by bacteria.

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jmuo-blog · 6 years

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New Post has been published on https://jmuo.com/17-july-4th-dessert-recipes-youll-find-room-for/

17 July 4th Dessert Recipes You'll Find Room For (...

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[Photograph: Vicky Wasik, Carrie Vasios Mullins]

It’s practically your patriotic duty to stuff your face with hot dogs and`potato salad on July 4th, so we understand if you don’t usually leave room for dessert. But after a big meal of smoky grilled meats (maybe a few hours after), a little something sweet can be just the pick-me-up you need. Plus, entertaining is a great opportunity to whip up all sorts of tasty desserts you may not take the time to make just for yourself—succulent grilled peaches and juicy strawberry pie to celebrate peak summer-fruit season, cooling homemade ice creams and popsicles, a light and creamy basil mousse that showcases just how well the fragrant herb pairs with dairy. Whatever strikes your fancy, you’ll find the perfect match in this collection of 17 Fourth of July dessert recipes.

Grilled Peaches and Pound Cake With Cider Vinegar Caramel Sauce

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

To really get the most out of that roaring fire in your grill, use it for your dessert along with your burgers. All three elements of this elegant dish—peaches, caramel sauce, and pound cake—are given some time over the fire, where they absorb a tantalizing whiff of smoke to complement their sweetness. We cut the peaches in half and dip them in sugar before placing them on the grates, allowing them to develop a crisp crust. You could certainly make your own pound cake, but the final dish here is so delicious, no one will notice at all if you go store-bought.

Get the recipe for Grilled Peaches and Pound Cake With Cider Vinegar Caramel Sauce »

Grilled Banana Boats With Peanut Butter, Chocolate, and Marshmallows

[Photograph: Joshua Bousel]

For a simpler grilled dessert that’s also kid-friendly, it doesn’t get much easier than stuffing split-open bananas with candy, chocolate, and marshmallows, then grilling them right in their peels for a messy, melty treat. Our recipe calls for mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips, but the sky’s really the limit—just set out a spread of possible fillings and let your guests choose their own adventures.

Get the recipe for Grilled Banana Boats With Peanut Butter, Chocolate, and Marshmallows »

Sunny Lemon Bars

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

These outrageously bright and tart lemon bars start with a fully cooked custard made with equal parts whole eggs and egg yolks, producing a soft, rich texture that’s just firm enough to slice without falling apart. The extra yolks help stabilize the custard without the need for cornstarch, keeping it stunningly clear. A bit of lemon zest added to the simple butter-and-sugar crumb fortifies the bars’ citrusy flavor.

Get the recipe for Sunny Lemon Bars »

DIY Pudding Pops

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

A popsicle on a hot day is one of life’s purest simple pleasures. It’s hard to say no even to a plastic-wrapped pop from the freezer section, but these homemade takes on Jell-O’s long-discontinued Puddin’ Pops will truly blow the crowd away. What’s more, they’re easy to whip up, using a simple vanilla custard thickened with tapioca starch. To make them extra special, dip the pops in a mixture of chocolate and coconut oil to form a crispy shell, then coat in sprinkles, cocoa nibs, or another crunchy topping of your choice.

Get the recipe for DIY Pudding Pops »

Tamarind and Palm Sugar Popsicles With Chili Salt

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

Inspired by the sticky, spicy-sweet tamarind candy Pelon Pelo Rico, these thoroughly grown-up popsicles package the same flavors into a refreshingly frosty treat. Though harder to find than white sugar or standard brown, palm sugar lends a unique caramelly sweetness to offset the tart tamarind concentrate, while a dip in chili salt mixed with malic acid gives the pops a little hot, sour bite.

Get the recipe for Tamarind and Palm Sugar Popsicles With Chili Salt »

Fresh Basil Mousse

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

We don’t often think of basil as a dessert ingredient, but to anyone who’s ever enjoyed a Caprese salad or a margherita pizza, it should be no surprise that it pairs well with dairy. What’s a little more surprising is the inclusion here of white chocolate, which has a floral aroma that complements basil beautifully and helps add richness and body to this light mousse. It’s thickened with gelatin, making it easier than an egg-based version and safe for any egg-allergic friends.

Get the recipe for Fresh Basil Mousse »

Texas Sheet Cake

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes dessert—this supersized cake will easily feed a party of two dozen Independence Day revelers. (It also keeps well enough that a smaller group could nibble on it for a week.) The buttermilk-enriched chocolate batter is poured into a thin layer in a sheet pan, where it bakes up fluffy and moist. But the real magic happens when it’s doused in molten fudge icing—the fudge seeps into the cake, turning the top of it delightfully gooey. A layer of toasted pecans gives the otherwise soft cake and fudge some crunch.

Get the recipe for Texas Sheet Cake »

Homemade Brownie Mix

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

Stella’s best from-scratch brownies are indeed fantastic, but they require browned butter and a couple hours’ worth of prep time. If you’re looking for a quicker route to brownies, try stirring together a batch of this homemade brownie mix in advance. On the day of, simply add the wet ingredients, pulse in a food processor or mix by hand, pour, and bake. Made with Dutch-process cocoa powder, chopped dark chocolate, malted milk powder, and refined coconut oil, the mix will last for up to a year on the shelf (or until the expiration date of the coconut oil), and it tastes better than anything you can buy.

Get the recipe for Homemade Brownie Mix »

Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

Chocolate chip cookies are an obvious crowd-pleaser, whether you choose to make our ultra-involved, best-ever cookies or an old-fashioned, quick and easy variety. But if you’ll be celebrating the Fourth with anyone who eschews eggs, dairy, or both, this vegan recipe will make not only them happy but those with no such dietary restrictions, too. Here, an oat slurry stands in for eggs, coconut oil replaces the butter, and a mix of dry malt extract and nutmeg gives the cookies some of the toasty, nutty flavors that butter takes on in the oven. We add hand-chopped dark chocolate to the batter rather than commercial chips, for better flavor and to help thicken the dough.

Get the recipe for Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies »

Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

Can’t decide between cookies and ice cream? This recipe gives you the best of both worlds, but there are no crushed-up cookies involved. Instead, we opt for a deconstructed approach, mixing crispy oats, crunchy pecans, and chewy dried fruit into a brown sugar base infused with cinnamon, toasted oats, and vanilla bean. The oats do double duty—we steep them into the base to give it a nutty flavor, then bake them into clusters to use as a mix-in.

Get the recipe for Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream »

The Best Cherry Pie

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

You don’t need any magical tricks to turn out a delicious, perfectly thickened cherry pie—just the right ratio. Pair the fruit (fresh or frozen cherries will work great) with 25% of its weight in sugar and 5.5% of its weight in tapioca starch, and the filling will come out thick but juicy every time. Using a mix of different cherry varieties, sweet and sour, yields the best flavor.

Get the recipe for The Best Cherry Pie »

The Best Blueberry Pie

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

The best part about the above ratio from our cherry pie is that it works perfectly for many other fruit pies, too (though not all—apple and peach pies, for example, need a different treatment). Here, that means blueberries, preferably a mix of cultivated and wild for greater depth of flavor. As pretty as ceramic and stoneware pie plates may look, you’ll actually get a crispier crust that’s less prone to sogging with inexpensive tempered glass.

Get the recipe for The Best Blueberry Pie »

Fresh and Creamy Lime Pie

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

A twist on an old-fashioned lemon cream pie, this tart, bright pie is akin to a cross between Key lime and lemon meringue—and just as delicious as that sounds. We cook the simple custard on the stovetop, then pour it into a blind-baked whole wheat crust, which we find delivers a graham cracker–like flavor that pairs nicely with the lime. It’s all topped off with fluffy peaks of meringue that toast to a nutty brown in the oven.

Get the recipe for Fresh and Creamy Lime Pie »

Grasshopper Ice Cream Pie

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

Another dessert of days past, grasshopper pie was traditionally made by mixing crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream with melted marshmallows. Our updated take uses a custard filling that’s decidedly more grown-up, flavored with Fernet Branca (to enhance the minty flavor while offsetting the sweetness) and a dash of mint extract, plus melted dark chocolate instead of the usual chocolate liqueur. An intense cocoa-nib caramel drizzled over the top completes the dessert.

Get the recipe for Grasshopper Ice Cream Pie »

Summer Strawberry Pie

[Photograph: Yvonne Ruperti]

It’s one thing to make a pie that’s served cold, but in July, the real win is one that keeps all the prep work cold, too. This summery pie requires no baking and no cooking, unless you count a quick trip to the microwave to melt the gelatin. That helps to thicken a filling of strawberry purée and macerated fruit, which we pour into a homemade graham cracker crust, then refrigerate until set.

Get the recipe for Summer Strawberry Pie »

No-Bake Cheesecake With Freeze-Dried Fruit

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

As much as we love our seasonal berries and peaches, you don’t need great summer fruit to make a great summer fruit dessert. The moisture in fresh fruit will actually ruin a no-bake cheesecake, so we turn to powdered freeze-dried fruit instead—you can order all sorts online, including strawberries and blueberries, bananas, and cherries. Think of our recipe as a template, and make it your own by experimenting with different combinations of fruit and crust. You can’t go wrong with strawberry and Oreos, banana and Biscoff, or mango and gingersnaps, but those are just for starters.

Get the recipe for No-Bake Cheesecake With Freeze-Dried Fruit »

American Flag Fruit Salad

[Photograph: Carrie Vasios Mullins]

An American flag–shaped dessert is a time-honored tradition on the Fourth of July, and this one happens to be exceptionally easy as well. Artfully arranging berries, cherries, banana, and bits of apple turns a plain old fruit salad into a patriotic centerpiece. Of course, feel free to swap out these specific fruits for whatever appropriately colored options look best at your local market.

Get the recipe for American Flag Fruit Salad »

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