#louisa has such a sweet smile!

[cinematic-phosphenes]

Marian — 2.04: "His Grace the Duke" THE GILDED AGE (2022-)

#the gilded age #thegildedageedit #thegildedagesource #perioddramagif #perioddramaedit #gifshistorical #tvedit #tvgifs #marian brook #louisa jacobson #maud beaton #nicole brydon bloom #costume design #costumes #19th century fashion #*meine #louisa has such a sweet smile!

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

To a Tea 2

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc. 

Part of the Sweet and Spicy AU 

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as dubcon/noncon, and other possible triggers. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk. 

18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you. 

Summary:  A demanding customer grows increasingly needy.

Character:  Raymond Smith

The title is a pun, don’t @ me.

Please comment and reblog if it’s not too much. I always love getting to chat about these stories and hearing all your ideas! You all are wonderful and loved. 

You don’t often miss work, but that week, a burst pipe throws everything off. A morning spent waiting on your landlord, then the next few hours for a plumber, has things a bit off kilter. Even the next day, you’re not quite back on point. 

The patched wall next to fridge reminds you of the disaster and a dingy smell persists. You hope it doesn’t cling to you as you set off for your shift that day. If you can, you want to pick up some hours from others if their up for grabs. Harry doesn’t like Saturday’s, maybe he’ll hand over some. 

You try to leave your problems behind as you catch a bus down to the city centre. You get to the tea shop five minutes before the hour. Jenna’s wrapping up the opening tasks as you go to leave your things in the back. You tie on your apron and unlock the front door for the first customers of the day. 

At first, it’s a trickle. Never very much at all. The early risers who often come alone or if they aren’t, they don’t speak much or very loudly. The smell of fresh baking and the slow rising sun add to the lazy din. 

“Thought the special was strawberry today,” you comment as you transfer macarons from a cooled tray to the display. 

“Eh, it was but we didn’t have enough jam,” she shrugs. “Changed the sign, is all.” 

“Ah, thought my mind was lagging again. Everything’s been off since yesterday.” 

“Eh, how’s the apartment, anyhow? Marilyn said it was something about a leak?” 

“Burst pipe,” you explain, “they took out the wall above the sink, buncha clanging all day. When I tell you this place is like heaven.” 

She chuckles, “can be.” 

“There’s a formal tea booked in the Marigold Room at noon,” she intones, “forgot to mention that. With Mother’s day coming up, suppose we’ll get more bookings.” 

“Suppose,” you go to check the schedule hanging on the wall. “Party of twelve, wow.” 

“I’ll man the till. Honest, since those ladies at New Years, I’ve hated doing them.” 

“No problem, Harry should be here, shouldn’t he?” 

“Well, he’s... called in.” 

“Again?” You whine as you face her. 

“Are you really surprised?” She scoffs. 

“No one else to cover? Not even Louisa?” 

“Nah, she’s on holiday still.” 

You huff, “fine. Not much of a choose then, is it?” 

🫖

The tea room is as close to raucous as you’ve ever heard it. You have your back to the rest of the shop as you balance the stacked serving trays with an array of sponge cake, fruit, and biscuits. It’s the typical assortment for a tea party booking. 

You’ve already served the tea and the sandwiches, and dessert is the last bit, along with any further pots needed to be steeped throughout. With a partner, it isn’t hard to keep up, but alone, it’s rather overwhelming. Jenna does her best to assist but there aren’t many lulls around lunch time. 

Beyond that, the tourists are chatty. You could hardly get away to fetch each course as they wanted to chat about the culture and your suggestions of what they should do next. It’s nice that they’re friendly but still stressful. 

You put the trays on the cart and roll it around the counter. As you do, you nearly skid to a halt. In the rush, you hadn’t noticed him. Your eyes meet Raymond’s as he watches you. Intent, intense. You give an apologetic smile and nod in acknowledgement. Jenna wanted to deal with the main room, she’ll have to wipe down his table and do her best. 

You roll behind the wall and into the Marigold room. You present the tray and grab it by the ring at the top, lifting it onto the centre of the table. You roll around to gather the empty plates and cups, taking two pots for refill. 

You come back out and see Raymond standing, just as he was. He sees you too. Watching, hands folded, knuckles white, jaw set. He’s usually patient but you don’t know how long he’s been waiting. 

You roll behind the counter and sigh, clearing off the cart as Jenna steams a tea latte. 

“Can you wipe Raymond’s table?” You ask. 

“Who?” She furrows her brow. 

You glance over your shoulder toward the man in question and she follows. She rolls her eyes, “I tried, I wiped the the table. He didn’t sit.” 

“Hm, well... did you wash your hands first?” 

“Christ Almighty, what is he a child?” 

“Jen, he’s just... you know, my mom’s the same. He can’t help it.” 

“You can deal with him. I won’t be arsed,” she sniffs, “he was rude and you know I don’t got time for those ones.” 

“Jenna, I’m kinda up to my eyes,” you dump the used bags from a pot. “I know he can be prickly but just wash your hands and redo the table.” 

“Ugh, fine,” she sneers, “but you owe me.” 

“Let’s call it even,” you retort as you pour boiling water into the pots mouth. 

She shakes her head and huffs, “guess it is.” 

🫖

It’s nearly three in the afternoon. It’s quiet. Harry’s on his phone instead of doing the cups and your wiping the empty tables to keep yourself moving. The door opens and you glance over to make sure Harry’s alert. He’s not. 

Doesn’t matter. It’s him. Raymond. You stand and clutch the cloth tight in your hand as you greet him. 

“Be right with you, Raymond,” you assure him. 

He barely looks at you as he goes to wait next to his table. You go behind the counter and mutter under your breath in Harry’s direction, “...dirty cups.” You wash your hands and make sure to clink some of the empty porcelain in an effort to draw your coworker’s attention. He’s still entranced by his phone. 

You take the disinfectant wipes and go back out. You approach Raymond as he checks his watch. 

“How are you today?” You ask. 

He grumbles and shrugs, “fine.” 

“English Breakfast, black,” you declares as you finish wiping up, “usual.” 

“So you remember,” he challenges as he steps close, closer than ever, before sidling around to sit. 

“Of course, I always do,” you smile. 

“And last time?” 

“Last time...” 

“Twice.” 

You’re confused. What is he talking about? 

“I came on Tuesday and you weren’t here. Then on Thursday, you didn’t even say hello.” 

“Oh, well, I’m sorry, Raymond, it was a busy day. Tuesday, I had a personal emergency so I didn’t even know you’d been in--” 

“I’ll have my tea now,” he interjects tersely. 

“Right, tea,” you confirm and spin around. 

“Crooked strings,” he remarks dully, “again.” 

#raymond smith #dark raymond smith #raymond smith x reader #dark!raymond smith #drabble #series #to a tea #sweet and spicy #the gentlemen #au

[nanami1chu]

I’m sorry for any spelling errors!!

I just wanna put this out here, I been dreaming about for like two weeks it’s like a series in my head. So this happens when Alastor was still alive, he falls in love with a woman who was a bit younger than him, she was a sweet doll. They slept together once!(sexually, they were each others first) But they were never officially a couple, Alastor wanted to but hasn’t made a move on it (cuz he was busy killing). So after they slept together she founds out she’s pregnant, since she was younger than him she was scared to tell him because they weren’t even in a relationship and didn’t want to ruin his career and reputation,  (she kinda knew what he did at night another reason why she was scared that he was gonna hurt her or the baby, still loved him)  but she was just scared so she told her family and her family sent her way and she never told Alastor. He was kinda of heartbroken when he found out couple days later that she moved away. Her family wouldn’t give him any information where or how to contact her. So he never saw her again. 

That’s the basics of it! 

Anywho, so she’s pregnant with twins one boy one girl (girl looked like her mom while the boy is a copy of their father), Alastor dies 3 week later when the twins where born, a hard working single mother. She did talk about their father to her kids and what he was like also looked like with the one picture she had. Years later mother dies of a sickness when the twins are 18 years old. (Mother goes to heaven)

The point of this is that the twins took up, dark magic, same as their father, but didn’t know that he did that to.

(Idk why but I like the names Maddie(boy) and Louisa(girl) for the twins, the boy is older by a couple minutes or months idk how the twin thing works )

By now the twins are 20 years old and for some reason Lou (short for Louisa) wants to know more about the mysterious Alastor, who is known to be their father. So she’s going through looking for information, anything about him. She just feels a little sad she never got a dad like the other girls she went to school with or when in middle school she couldn’t go to the Father daughter dance. She just wanted a little bit of a father figure while Maddie wasn’t really interested in knowing about their father, he sees their “father” as a guy who’s just a guy.

(As you can see both Daddy issues in two different ways, Maddie more of a mommy’s boy also was very protective of their mother when alive, and sister. Promising his mother to look after his sister) 

I have more to this but I wanna get into what kind of powers the twins have.

Louisa ability is more of a witch more like the Scarlet witch but she’s more a soft girl so she doesn’t really use it for evil. She very more connected to nature (like kiri from Avatar). She is the kindest person you’ll meet, she’s every understanding about others (she’s someone you can talk to without feeling judged) she doesn’t really care if she’s hurt physically, but emotionally not just to her but to the ones she loves… things get dark.

Maddie is more of a… fuck around and found out will inflict pain on you for just looking at them or his sister in the wrong way , like Alastor smiles a lot too, I wouldn’t say he’s soft but he’s very aware of his emotions but it’s hard for him to talk about it( rather suffer in silence)  ability is… it’s kind a like Alastor, but not really, but the form of it is also a Wendigo. he does know dark magic like spells, but he transforms into a beast like a Wendigo. (yk how Alastor and his shadow are like “friends?” They talk to each other and stuff) well Maddie has that too but it’s not a shadow kinda more a (venom) thing of his Wendigo who is his friend and they are bound together.

I have more but I can’t put it into words for right now Alastor does come up in this and meets the twins but this right here is more about them

More outfits

#alastor #alastor hazbin hotel #alastor headcanons #alastor human #alastor x reader #hazbin alastor #hazbin hotel #the radio demon #alastor hartfelt #alastor the radio demon #cursed cat alastor

[pedroshotwifey]

Christmas Countdown Day 21 - Christmas Movies

What to Watch

Pairing: Husband!Marcus Pike x Pregnant!Wife!Reader

Word count: 863

Tags/Warnings: no warnings, just fluff! no use of y/n or reader description other than her being preggo, sweet nicknames, sweet feels, reader and Marcus have two kids, good dad marcus pike, stuff im forgetting

Summary: Marcus never fails to save the day

A/N: This is a cute one! I love the family dynamic when it comes to Pedro characters. Maybe it stems from the fact that I want to give him ten kids. Hope you enjoy this Christmasy fluff!

***

You’ve been trying to get a movie started for half an hour now. 

It’s a Friday night—family movie night. It’s the last Friday before Christmas, so everyone’s decided to watch a holiday movie. Unfortunately, Marcus is running late, and neither of your children can agree on something to watch. 

“Honey,” you start, trying to reason with your daughter. “How about we watch Thomas’s movie tonight, and then tomorrow, we’ll watch another?” 

Louisa crosses her arms as she pouts, looking absolutely pissed for a seven year old. 

“But Mama, I want to watch my mov–”

“I want the train!” Thomas interrupts her whinilly. You sigh, watching as your four year old’s outburst causes another round of bickering. 

Frankly, even though your daughter is dead-set on watching Barbie in the Nutcracker, you agree that it sounds better than The Polar Express. It may be a classic, but it’s always creeped you out. 

Your strategy right now though is to try to convince your daughter to do the ‘big sister thing’ and let her younger brother have his way just for tonight. 

“Alright, guys,” you say gently after a moment, attempting to slow their arguing. You have no idea what to do to convince either one of them at this point. “How abou—”

Just then, the door opens, and your entire body sags with relief. It’s almost comedic, the way you hadn’t realized you’d been so tense. 

“Daddy!” the kids yell in unison, already making a dash for the front door. Despite your stress, you smile as you hear an ‘oof’ that must be from Marcus getting pounced on by two children. 

You come in a few seconds after them, one hand balanced on your protruding stomach as you lean against the doorway. Marcus has already dropped his work things to kneel down and embrace his kids. 

“Hello my angels, have you been good for your mother today?” He glances up at you with a knowing look, having heard all about their behavior today over text. They’ve been rowdy since they got off school for Christmas break, but you can’t blame them. 

You’ll admit that you love how exciting this time of year is for them, even if it means they’re a bit naughty. The magic won’t last forever, afterall. 

You bite your lip to conceal a laugh as Thomas and Lou give each other a knowing look of their own. At least they can agree on something. Marcus hms thoughtfully as he starts to stand. 

“Let me give your mother a kiss, and then we can talk about what to watch,” he says, rubbing both of their heads. 

You smile and take a step toward your husband to wrap your arms around him. He grabs your hips gently as he gives you a soft kiss. 

“You’re doing so good, Momma,” he says just loud enough for you to hear. “Why don’t you let me deal with this while you go sit down for a minute.” 

You smile at him gratefully, breathing in his scent as he embraces you. 

“Thank you,” you whisper, planting a kiss on his cheek before pulling away to track back into the living room. 

As you sit, you close your eyes and focus on Marcus talking to your children. He’s such a good dad, you have no idea how he does it. 

It’s not long before the three of them are trailing in behind you, the kids snuggling up with you as Marcus takes The Polar Express out of its case and puts it into the DVD player. 

He gets it set up and presses play before toeing his shoes off and sliding behind you on the couch, near the armrest. He gently tugs you back so that you’re tucked comfortably against him, the children resting on you as you stroke Lou’s hair and Thomas’s back. 

Marcus slides his arms around you, linking his hands above your belly and slightly under your swollen breasts to alleviate some pressure. You sigh, relaxing further into him. 

You tilt your head back slightly as the movie begins, giving Marcus a lingering kiss. 

“How did you do it?” you whisper with a slight giggle. You feel him shrug behind you. 

“Just told them we would watch both movies tonight.”

You shake your head and huff a laugh through your nose. You both know neither of them have the energy to even stay up for the duration of one. 

Thomas is already snoring within about ten minutes, and Lou is well on her way. Halfway through the movie, Marcus carefully gets up and carries them individually to their rooms. 

“Poor guys are exhausted,” he laughs, dipping down to slot your lips against yours again. You chuckle in agreement. It’s been a long day of bickering. 

You’re about to open your mouth to speak when Marcus scoops you up just like he had your children, making you squeal as quietly as you can as you wrap your arms around his neck. 

He carries you bridal style to your room and lays you down on the bed before getting in next to you. Tucked within his loving embrace, you’re out like a light quicker than the kids were.

***

Please consider interacting if you enjoyed this fic! Lmk if u would like to join the countdown taglist <3

FOTJC: @arcanefox207 @redhotkitchen @magpiepills @exquisiteserotonin @sparklefarts38 @pink-whiskey-woman @youandmeand5bucks @legendary-pink-dot @for-a-longlongtime @secretelephanttattoo @morallyinept @beskarandblasters @tightjeansjavi @theywhowriteandknowthings @nerdieforpedro @maggiemayhemnj @ramblers-lets-get-ramblin @ghostofaboy @joels-shitty-puns @elvinaa

WCC: @amyispxnk @melaninmommy @brittmb115 @mandoalorian @yorksgirl

Link to prompt list

#pedro pascal #fan fiction #ao3 #fluff #pedro pascal fluff #marcus pike fluff #marcus pike x reader #marcus pike #pedro pascal characters #pedro pascal fanfiction #wifeys christmas countdown #christmas #friends of the juice collective

[sariel626]

I read your platonic dad Poe fic. Could you do another one where Poe has to run to the office and brings his kid for a few minutes and they meet Fitzgerald for the first time. He tries to keep his little detective quiet lol

AAAAAAA! My first request!!! This is so exciting!!!

Note: Fitzgerald did meet reader under different circumstances in the other Poe work, so we’ll have reader’s memory be foggy of him.

TW: possible OOC characters

———————————————————————

Emergency Meeting!🚨🚨🚨

Poe grabbed his phone and noticed it was Francis calling, so he answered the call while motioning for (Reader) to be quiet, “Hello boss, is there something you need? Ah yes, the plans for the new buildings have been drafted. I can bring them in a couple hours for review- 15 minutes?! N-No, it’s not a problem, but my daughter, she can’t be left alone yet. I promise she won’t be a bother! Thank you!”

Immediately after hanging up Poe started to gather his things. (Reader) had cleaned up her crayons and papers after figuring out she would probably be going somewhere with her dad. “Dad, are you going to work?” Poe sighed, “Yes, there’s a meeting I have to go to and unfortunately, you’ll be coming with me this time.” He recalled the last time (Reader) was at the office and shivered at the thought of the experience repeating. Poe grabbed his bag and began leading her out the door. The young girl whined at this, “Why can’t I stay with Uncle Ranpo? It’s Saturday, he’s not gonna be at work!” “I have to be there in less than fifteen minutes. That isn’t anywhere near enough time to drop you off with Ranpo. Did you grab some books? Colors and notebooks?” The girl hummed in response, pouting about having to go to her dad’s work on the weekend.

Living about 7 minutes away made it slightly easier for the stressed architect and young girl to arrive in time by speed walking. There were many times when a bookstore or sweet shop would catch little (Reader)’s eye and almost distract her, but Poe was determined to get him and his daughter to and through this meeting as soon as possible.

Once they arrived at the entrance of the guild, (Reader) felt a sense of deja vu wash over her. She grabbed Poe’s hand and he looked down at her. “I think I’ve been here before…and something bad happened. I don’t wanna go.” Her father’s expression immediately grew worried. Was she having traumatic flashbacks? Was he going to lose his daughter because of this important meeting? Karl jumped off Poe’s shoulders onto his daughter’s, which seemed to help calm the small girl’s nerves a bit. “It’ll only be one short meeting, then we’ll leave, I promise” Poe gave (Reader) a reassuring smile. “…Ok, but then we have to get ice cream!” “Deal!”

After passing through what seemed like 50 empty hallways, they finally made it to their destination with a minute to spare. Knocking on the door, they hear a “Come in” and both enter the lavish room, coming face to face with Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald himself and Louisa Alcott by his side, as per usual. Seeing Poe now here, Francis smiled and checked his watch, “Poe! You’re just in time! Let’s take a look at what you’ve drawn up.” Ignoring the presence of Poe’s daughter, he watched Poe take out the files for each plan and set them on his desk. “The new firm will require at least $690,000,000 to build…”

Meanwhile, (Reader) had moved from behind Poe to behind the couch he was sitting on. She felt uncomfortable upon seeing the blonde CEO, but couldn’t pinpoint what it was exactly that gave her that feeling. Taking out the crayons from her bag, the girl continued working on her picture for Uncle Ranpo. Sifting through the box to find a black crayon, because he always has to have his signature glasses at the scene, she noticed her red crayon fall out and roll around the corner of the couch. Of course, this did not go unnoticed by Francis. Amusement spread across his face as he spoke, “Poe, did you let in a rat?” Knowing full well who was there. The tousle haired writer tried to maintain his composure and picked it up, “I-It must’ve fallen out o-of my pocket from earlier.” Francis laughed, “I didn’t know you used crayons to draw up your plans for new structures.” This only raised Poe’s anxiety of the situation. Will Francis see his daughter and force him to get rid of her? Will he kill her?! “O-Occasionally I do, t-to avoid smearing in my drafts…” Hearing the poor excuse, Francis decided to see how far Poe would go to hide the girl’s presence. “I suppose that’s reasonable. Now, you were saying?”

The writer let out a sigh of relief internally and continued with the meeting. He couldn’t help but notice Louisa glancing next to him, almost as if she were trying to see behind the couch. At this point, (Reader) had finished her initial drawing and flipped her drawing notebook paper. Coincidentally, this was done almost in sync with her father, but she was slightly louder which caught the attention of the Guild’s strategist. The young girl, pondering what to draw next, glanced around the room before freezing up as she looked at the space between Fitzgerald’s desk and the door (like where Atsushi was before he escaped and took the doll to Dazai). Her pupils shrunk and (Reader)’s hand instinctively started moving to draw a familiar, yet forgotten memory…

As she was drawing, the small artist had built up the urge to sneeze and sneeze she did. The room fell silent for a few moments before Francis said, “Poe, please refrain from bringing anyone to Guild meetings again. You may come out from hiding.” (Reader) peeked her head out, still feeling a bit uncomfortable around the businessman. Francis would’ve been lying if he said he was surprised by the girl’s appearance. He had expected someone much older and taller. Clearing his voice without breaking eye contact, he asks Louisa to take the young girl to another room until he and Poe are finished.

Cleaning up her crayons again, and getting the red one from her father, (Reader) follows the loyal woman to a room nearby. “Miss Louisa? Can I call you that?” Louisa looked down at the kid, “Louisa or Alcott is fine.” “Do you have to go back?” “I do…but I don’t want to interrupt Lord Francis’s meeting…” The small girl pondered this, “Do you want to play double double this this?” Louisa was taken by surprise at the girl’s offer. Didn’t this kid remember her just watching Lord Francis killing her parents and almost her a few years ago? Why would she want to play a game with her? Unless it’s a trap! “—ouisa? Miss Louisa? You can say no, it’s ok.” A tiny hand was waving in front of Louisa’s face to snap her out of her thoughts. “S-Sorry, I don’t know how to play so I’ll just review my work. Can you please be completely quiet so I can work?” “I’ll try my best to be as quiet as possible!” Louisa smiled at the young detective’s determination, but immediately sweat dropped when (Reader) pulled out four adult mystery novels.

Soon enough, the meeting was over and the girl had solved three mysteries before reaching the end of the books. Louisa brought (Reader) back to Francis’s office, the room still making the young detective uneasy. Karl was the first of the three to notice the two enter, and he jumped onto the familiar child’s shoulder. This alerted both Poe and Francis of the two girls’ arrival. “Welcome back little one, I’m sure you were much better for Miss Louisa than you were during the meeting?” Poe sighed, “I-I’m so sorry sir…I j-just couldn’t find a-anyone to watch her.” Louisa interjected, “She was very good and polite. I asked her to stay quiet so I could work and she didn’t make a sound.”

The nervous girl who had been hiding behind Louisa with Karl on her shoulders came out, knowing that she had to apologize for causing trouble for her father. Fidgeting with the ends of her shirt, she bowed her head in shame, “I-I’m sorry for making so much noise during your meeting…and being a problem…” Francis patted her head and chuckled, “Just don’t let it happen again.” He pulled his hand back, “You’re exactly like your father, appearances aside. Run along now, I’m sure you two had plans today.” Poe and (Reader) said their goodbyes and quickly rushed out.

Once they were gone, Francis frowned and continued staring at the door, “Miss Louisa.” “Y-Yes Lord Francis?” He turned towards her, “Don’t you think that girl resembled Eliza Haywood and Damien Lewis a bit too much?” Louisa noticed this too, but she didn’t expect her boss to ask her about it so soon. “I do…but are we still going to kill her? Poe seemed really attached to her…” “He was told to kill her if he saw her back then, that means he disobeyed an order.” Francis sighed and sat down in his chair at his desk, “But this could bear fruit for us if we play our cards right, let’s leave her be for now. I’m sure her father will help hone whatever gift that girl has.” “Should I retrieve the files on her biological parents?” “No, please continue putting together the next strategy.”

Meanwhile, after having left Francis’s office, Poe began scolding his daughter. “You can’t cause more problems for Mr. Fitzgerald like that. He’s busy enough as is with his businesses and running the Guild. He had to call me in on a day off because of his schedule being so packed. Please don’t let that happen again, especially when you can be quieter for other people.” There was a moment of silence as the little (Reader) let his words sink in. “ Oh, Why were you so nervous around him? I mean, I don’t blame you since he could easily fire me or kill m-“ The girl stopped in her tracks the moment he said ‘kill’ with a terrified expression on her face. Poe saw this and immediately grew worried, he hadn’t seen that look since he first took her in. The writer, not knowing what to do, reached out his hand like he did so long ago and asked, “Would you like to go to those sweet shops we passed on our way here? We could also s-stop by the bookstore if it’s still open?” Trying to hide the nervousness in his voice. Karl nuzzled her cheek, both gestures making the child snap out of her trance. She shakily grabbed her dad’s hand and the three left to fulfill Poe’s offer to his daughter.

———————————————————————

YOU CAN’T BEAT THE POWER OF ENERGY DRINKS AND OVERWORKING MYSELF WRITER’S BLOCK! I GOT THE POWER OF CHILD READER ON MY SIDE!

I’m so sorry if you’re not happy with how this turned out. I tried to keep it consistent with the how (Reader) was adopted story. Please feel free to give feedback, it is much appreciated.

Fun Fact: Eliza Haywood and Damien Lewis are also writers irl.

#bsd #bungou stray dogs #poe bsd #platonic bsd #francis bsd #louisa bsd #platonic poe x reader bsd #platonic bungo stray dogs #platonic poe bsd

[joandfriedrich]

My Trip to Concord: Part Two

Location 2: Orchard House

We went up the path that lead to the church, and there was a table for guests to sign in with their info and whatever message they’d like to leave. I wrote something like “Best birthday ever for the biggest Little Women fan.” Beside it was a small garden and while it didn’t have any flowers, it was nice to imagine what could have been, and it being the cutest garden.

The tour started in the church, and I was able to get these photos.

Apologizes that the cabinet picture isn’t the greatest, but it was a picture of what appears to be Joan of Arc, and my friend wondered if perhaps Abigail had painted that too. While we waited, we watched this documentary piece (we did miss part of the beginning because we ran a little late at the cemetery) where an actress played LMA and gave a small tour of the house. Something worth noting, and it will be particularly sweet to a certain demographic, when the fictional LMA was showing the pictures from the house, she referred Thoreau as a “very, very, very special friend”. It made me smile like an idiot.

When it finished, our guide told us that this was the school of Philosophy, where Bronson was the superintendent. The bench by the tree was the bench Bronson often sat at. Then moving into the house, we started in the kitchen and I snuck this picture in before being told that we were not allowed any pictures. If you want a good idea of how the interior looks, the 1994 film did a phenomenal job with the design, the colors are a bit different, but the structure is pretty much the same.

This was where the well was, and it was protected by plexiglass. It’s interesting, because in October I got to see Edgar Allan Poe’s house in Baltimore, and Orchard house is so much bigger than that, and it really did feel as cozy and inviting as you’d imagine. From the kitchen to the dining room, it had a picture of LMA over the mantel by the stairs, one that was done after her illness and by the same painter who did Abraham Lincoln. The china in the cabinet was the family china, belonging to her mother, which is why it has “May” engraved as it was her maiden name.

The only bedrooms we saw were the parents, which had a small offshoot of Anna’s twin boys’ room, Abigail and, of course, Louisa. The rooms were all very good size, though Abigail's was smaller than the other two, but I get it, she was the youngest, and if remembering correctly, she moved out/was in Europe at an early age, and didn't need the space. What was so cool as seeing her artwork all around her room, protected by plexiglass, and a copy of her painting La Négresse, was featured in her room.

Louisa's room was my favorite, not just because it's Louisa, but because it had the coziest feel, was sunny, and had such a great history there. Our guide shared that Louisa stayed in this room primarily when she was sick during the war, and Abigail would keep her company, and while she lamented she couldn't get Louisa flowers (as they were pricey), she painted flowers in her room, and it's still there, and very beautiful. It's a black background, with calla lilies and some red flower I am not sure of (you can see a part of it if you look at Abigail's wiki page.).

Something to note, at various places around the house, there were small baskets of fake apples, and my mom asked me "what's with the apples", and I said, "well, it is called orchard house." And then a few minutes later, the guide said that there used to be apple trees that grew nearby and Bronson was known to give people apples even if they didn't ask for it. His study was pretty cool, saw a pocket watch holder that worked as well as a clock. On the shelf, the people of the museum filled it with different versions of LMA's works from all over the world, both in style and in language.

Off from there was Abigail's small art studio, which had a dollhouse like case where different scenes from Little Women are played out. And they discovered underneath the wallpaper and whatnot, outlines of Abigail's artwork, profiles of people that had come to visit, and the museum had protected it with plexiglass, and on that highlighted the profiles.

At the end, we were in the store and there were so many awesome things there that I could have wasted my money there, but I settled on a few things.

Starting at the top and going clockwise, a magnet with Louisa on it with the quote "Nothing is impossible to a determined woman". Next is a small book called "The Language of Flowers" which is, as the cover says, flowers and their meanings". Next is "Merry Christmas and Other Christmas Stories" written by LMA. "Orchard House: Home of Little Women" is a Emmy winning documentary, and was the one that played in the church, and next to it is the Katharine Hepburn Little Women (they had the 33, 94, 19 versions, but I was surprised they didn't have the 17 or even the 49 film, though that is apparently a tough find). Above her, is little kids book called "Little Women: A Playtime Primer", and it's going to be a gift for my nephew. Above that is an ornament of Orchard house with an engraving of LMA, and in the center is a tote bag.

I also got a candle that's called Pickled Limes, and holy crap it smells amazing! A sweet limey scent, which reminded me of @thegamineingrey post of how they were like candy back in the day, and I totally get it. Also, bonus inside, an umbrella charm which was what really sealed the deal, if not for the scent.

Here are pics of the outside of Orchard House, many of which were taken by my mom, since I was too busy just admiring the place.

Suffice to say, it is a beautiful house, full of a rich history and, just as the book, still feels relevant and like going home. I am glad we were able to make the trip out to see this amazing house.

#little women #louisa may alcott #henry thoreau #henry david thoreau #ralph waldo emerson #meg march #jo march #beth march #amy march

[kenneth-williams-diaries]

Kenneth Williams and Ingrid Bergman at a press reception in London on the occasion of their upcoming stage play of George Bernard Shaw's "Captain Brassbound's Conversion" on 5 January 1971

24 February 1971

Ingrid is still doing some lines well and some lines badly ... it is because the lack of stage technique makes her her unable to sustain moments or comedy effects ... Nevertheless, I adore this woman and will forgive everything from someone who has her sweetness, radiance and generosity of spirit and who packs the theatre as she does. It is really marvellous to play to such houses.

11 June 1971

[...] I should think Bergman is the best person I've ever met who is an international star. I said to her in the wings 'You are being splendid tonight' & she said 'Yes, I'm in good voice too.' I said 'Yes, but the entrance was superb! So grand, so composed ... utterly serene' and she replied 'Well you know about actors - you can't just switch it on - some nights it all just goes right ...' It is true.

30 August 1982

[...] Went in to see her (Louisa, KW's mother) for meal at 5.30 and she told me 'Poor Ingrid Bergman is dead' and there was an item about her on the TV news, and a shot of her talking about Casablanca. She looked very altered from the '71 days when I worked with her. She died of cancer. [...]

1 September 1982

We saw the television tribute to Ingrid Bergman. It was staggering to see clips of her early films when she looked so radiantly beautiful, and then the later shots of her (during the illness) when the face aged so rapidly. The interviewer asked her 'Were you frightened when you found out you'd got cancer?' and for a tiny moment Ingrid's patience broke. 'Of course ... wouldn't you be frightened if you found that out about yourself?' Then the smile was resumed. I remember that dinner with her at the Garden in '71. I wrote in that diary how I'd said at the end of the evening 'You're the best person I've ever worked with' & she replied 'Oh my dear! There will be lots of others ...' There were not.

The Kenneth Williams Diaries

In memoriam INGRID BERGMAN ✨️

* 29 August 1915

✝︎ 29 August 1982

"You don't realise how much warmth, delight and love you bring into a room with you ..."

#Ingrid Bergman #Happy Birthday angel ✨️🕊 #29 August 1915 #may she rest in peace 🥀 #29 August 1982 #Kenneth Williams #The Kenneth Williams Diaries #1971 #1982 #so sweet how much Ken loved and respected her ... 😭💕 #my edits

[lenaswritingandstuff]

Losing Game [Antoine Griezmann x fem!OC] (Chap. VII)

Requested: No​

Pairing: Antoine Griezmann x OC!Gabrielle Darian; more to be added.

Warnings: English is not my first language!

Wordcount: 4.4K+

A/N: Thank you for still reading! GIF IS NOT MINE. Enjoy!

Previous chapter

“No, I’m not coming! Just forget about me like you did with your oldest daughter!”

Louisa hangs up and throws her phone on the table before she wipes her watery eyes. Starting last night, Louisa’s mother Mrs. Honorin has been calling her to convince her to come to a reception she’s organizing, and also to convince her to put her older sister “on the right track”. Louisa usually manages to handle it well and only gets angry at her mother, but it’s starting to really upsets her. She sits next to me and I put an arm around her shoulders.

“I don’t understand,” she has been saying that ever since her mother called her. “A mother is supposed to love and accept her child, not denigrate her.”

I know exactly how Tatiana feels.

“If you heard her,” Louisa continues, her head in her hands, “it seemed like Tatian was a monster.”

Several tears are shed, but I eventually comfort her after a few minutes.

“When I have a child, I’ll always be there for him, no matter what.”

“I’m sure you’ll be a great mother,” I answer.

I try to think of an activity to make her smile but the clock in the kitchen let me know that I have to leave to Clairefontaine in a few minutes. Maybe…

“You wanna come to Clairefontaine with me?”

She gives me a confused look.

“It would lift your spirit,” I say.

“Are you sure I can come?”

“We’ll know right away.”

I decide to call Antoine, hoping he’ll answer and accept a second guest in the castle. To my surprise, he answers immediately.

“Hello?”

“Hey, it’s me.”

Damn it, Gaby, of course he knows it’s you. I try to ignore the joy it gives me to hear his voice and focus on his answer.

“Are you okay? Is everything alright?”

“Yes, hum, I’m sorry to bother you, I just wanted to ask for…a favor.”

“You never bother me. Tell me.”

“I know it wasn’t planned, and it’s already nice of you guys to allow me to come to Clairefontaine,” I say, uncertain, “but can Louisa come?”

“Hold on a second.”

There are a few seconds of silence and then muffled whispers.

“Gaby? You still here?” 

“Yes, yes,” I say, surprised.

“There is no problem in Louisa coming.”

“That’s so sweet of you guys, thanks a lot.”

“Of course,” he says, and I can hear a smile in his voice. “See you later then.”

“See you.”

I hang up and turns to Louisa.

“He said yes.”

She has a little smile, and since we both already ready to go, we leave right away. In the car Louisa asks me questions about my visit to the castle the day before, and I don’t give her the details. We finally arrive at the castle, and I present the badge Antoine gave me yesterday and told me to keep.

“I don’t have one, though,” Louisa tells me, pointing at it.

“Let’s hope Antoine thought about it.”

We enter just fine – Antoine did think about it – and we walk to the castle. I still fell like an outsider, and I’m surprised to see that Louisa feels that way. She looks around with curiosity and also a bit incertitude. Approaching the  castle, we see a silhouette sitting in the grass, near the big letters that indicates where we are. I recognize the person right away, as does Louisa.

“Is it Pavard?” she whispers.

“Yes.

I bring Louisa with me to say hi to him before joining the others inside, hoping we won’t bother him.

“Hi, Benjamin,” I say softly.

He jumps in surprise and turns towards us.

“Oh, hi.” he gets up. “Sorry, I didn’t hear you two coming. How are you?”

He kisses me on the cheek and turns to Louisa, then to me again, waiting for me to introduce the two of them.

“Oh, sorry. This is Louisa, my best friend. Antoine kindly invited us to come here today.”

There is a sudden light in his brown eyes, and he nods.

“Oh, yes, Antoine told me. Nice to meet you.”

“A pleasure.”

He also kisses her on the cheek and a small smile grows on his sad face. I look at Louisa, whose cheeks seem to have become pink. I hear a door opening behind us and see Antoine coming out of the building. He walks to us, and Louisa give me a teasing look. Don’t start now. He smiles as he comes to us.

“Hi,” he says looking at me.

“Hi.”

He puts his hands on my arm and then kisses me. I see Louisa looking at the ground, a small smile on her lips. You giggle and I’ll kill you. After we get away, Antoine turns to her and gives her a polite smile.

“Nice too see again. Welcome to Clairefontaine.”

“Thank you for having me,” she answers. “Nice to see you too.”

“No problem,” Antoine says. “Gaby’s friends are always welcome to come. By the way, Benji, would you mind showing Louisa around?”

I’m about to ask why we won’t do it all together – as Antoine told me he’d give me a visit of the whole Center – when “Benji” nods.

“No problem.”

Thanks, bro. We’ll catch up later.”

I’ll admit that I’m not comfortable with the idea of leaving Louisa alone with a stranger, even if it’s a friend and teammate of Antoine’s. But Louisa looks happy so I keep my mouth shut. Antoine takes my hand and we walk to the castle.

“A private visit of the Bleus’ castle,” I say, “How lucky these both girls are.”

“Right?” Antoine laughs. “We’re not going into the second floor, there’s nothing to see in there except for messy bedrooms and video games.”

He opens the door and let me enter before him. I hear whispers and giggles right away. Antoine leads me to some kind of living room with a TV and several sofas. Hugo and Olivier, sitting next to each other, get up to greet me and ask me about my parents’ health and how is the company is. The four of us talk when Kylian arrives, a phone near his ear. He hangs up a few seconds later, a soft smile on his face.

“Was it Helena?” Olivier asks with a smirk.

“Yes,” Kylian answers with a smile after greeting me. “She’s coming to see the match with her mom and Baptiste.”

“You’re coming too, right?” Hugo asks me.”

I look at him, confused. I had no idea they had another game coming.

“Hum, yes,” I say, feeling awkward.

I look at Antoine, who’s looking at me.

“I mean, if you want me to come. I’d understand if you want to be left alone.”

“What? Of course I want you to come,” Antoine says as if he didn’t understand. “It would be awesome. Plus, you would bear me luck, just like last time.”

“You’re good at shooting penalties,” I say quickly. “I had nothing to do with it.”

“I agree with Grizou,” Olivier says. “I’m sure you and Louisa will bring us luck when you’ll be in the stadium.”

Antoine leaves and comes back a few seconds later with an envelope in his hand, which he hands me.

“There are two tickets in there, that way Louisa can come too if she wants.

“It’s very nice of you,” I answer, feeling a bit uncomfortable, “but I could have bought them.”

“Oh, but Antoine is a real gentleman,” Hugo laughs softly.

Yes, I’m starting to be aware of that.

*-*

After a moment of talking with the three Bleus, greeting Corentin Tolisso and Didier Deschamps and visiting le first floor of the castle, Antoine decides to give me a visit of the parc. He points at the younger team’s building, the auditorium and the other building. We walk to the woods which is all around the parc when se see Louisa and Benjamin come back from it, speaking vividly.

“My,” Antoine says with a small laugh, “they do seem like they get along.”

“Indeed,” I say.

“It’s been a while since we’ve seen Benji like that,” he says more seriously. “It’s nice to see him happy. He’s a good dude, and a real friend. I wouldn’t have let your friend with him if I didn’t trust him. His girlfriend left him,” he adds as if we were complotting. “Just like that, for no reason. He really loved her, it almost broke him. He doesn’t feel like seeing someone else yet, so Louisa is safe with him.”

I nod. Benjamin and Louisa come closer, still talking and laughing. They wave at us as we walk to the wood. If Clairefontaine seems generally peaceful – except for maybe the castle – the wood is probably the most peaceful place all around. It’s kind of romantic, when you think about it.

“This is a nice place,” I say without really thinking.

Antoine doesn’t answer and stares at me. His eyes go from my eyes to my mouth and then he kisses me like he never kissed me before. I thought our first kiss after our date was passionate, but it’s nothing compared to this one. The feeling of dizziness is a hundred times more powerful, and I feel something warm in my belly. My arms go around his neck and the kiss gets harder. I feel Antoine making me walk back and a few seconds after I feel a tree against my back. His hands grab my hips and his lips descend from my mouth to my chin and then my neck. Oh my God. The warm sensation inside of me increases and Antoine puts his hands under my shirt. The cold sensation of his hands on my skin makes me shiver as his lips kisses every centimeter of my neck. He suddenly stops, and I’m about to ask him to do it again when his face slightly comes back to mine. I open my eyes and try to catch my breath, feeling as if my heart is gonna come out of my chest.

“What are you doing to me?” he whispers, his eyes in mine.

Before I can answer, he kisses my neck and then comes back to my lips. My hands touch his light brown hair and soon my fingers run through it. His mouth lets out a sigh of contentment and I feel him slightly pulling up my shirt. I should tell him to stop, but I can’t. One of his hands leave my limbs to grab my leg and put it against his hip, without his lips ever leaving mine. Please don’t ever make him stop. At this moment, we hear conversations and laughs from the castle. After a few seconds, Antoine somewhat gets his face away from mine, his nose almost touching mine and his breath on my neck.

“I think they’re waiting for you,” I whisper, hoping he won’t hear the regret in my voice.

He puts me back on the ground, as only one of my feet were touching the ground, and I give him one last kiss. I caress his cheek and when I see his smile, I know he’ll finish what he started soon or later.

*-*

I try to fix my hair as much as I can – because of course Mr. Griezmann ruined it – as we go back to the castle. We see Didier outside, surrounded by his assistant, most of the players and Louisa, who talks with Benjamin and Steve Mandanda. I quickly pray that I don’t have any hickey.

“Training session is on, Grizou,” Didier says. “Ladies, you can watch it if you like,” he ads for Louisa and me.

“Are you sure it won’t be a problem?” I ask, and I see Louisa agreeing with me.

“Of course not,” Antoine answers with an appeasing tone.

“We’re not used to have such a charming public”, Paul says. “so it’s a big change. Right, lads?”

The other approve and we head for the training fields, Louisa walking between me and her new friend. She gives me an interrogating and amused look but I don’t say anything and let her know I’ll tell her later. I’m sure she also has things to tell me – even though I won’t give her all the details of my moment in the wood with Antoine.

I talk with her and Emilien when I notice Antoine observing Emilien in a strange way. Once they’re on the fields, the team get in formation and Louisa and I sit in seats protected from the sun. I try to learn more about the moment Louisa shared with Benjamin, but she remains silent and I eventually give up, perfectly knowing she’ll tell me everything once we’ll be alone. Even if she doesn’t say anything, I see that she keeps looking at Benjamin, who in return sometimes gives her sweet small smiles. If last time Antoine did look at me from time to time, this time their number is multiplicated by two and I feel myself blush. Just like last time, I don’t get bored one bit, and neither does Louisa. The most amusing part of the training sessions is them shooting. They all shoot each at the time, Hugo catching several balls. Antoine walks up, focused. I saw him focused during a match, but being actually near him and seeing his determined face, he’s…hot.

“He really is focused, isn’t he?” Louisa asks me.

“He is,” I whisper.

“He looks at you this way,” she says with a lower voice. “As if you were the only thing in the world.”

I look at her before hearing a noise and a scream of joy.

“Yes!” Antoine scream, toddling. “Gaby did you see this one?

I nod, smile and clap. It’s Emilien’s turn to shoot. He scores too but Hugo protests that it was off-side.

“It wasn’t, dude, I promise,” Emilien laugh, running a hand in his blond hair.

“Not to be rude, brother,” Olivier says in a soothing voice, “I think Cap is right, it was off-side.”

“I think so too,” Antoine adds.

“How about we ask the judges of the day?” Emilien answers. “Girls?”

I don’t know anything about football, bro, why do you have to come to me like that?

“I think the boys are right,” I answer, and Louisa approves. “Sorry, Emilien.”

“Ah, see.” Antoine says.

Emilien is still not convinced, but he gladly accepts to shoot again. This time, Hugo stops it and his teammates compliments him. After the training session, we decide it’s time for us to leave, as I work this afternoon – and Louisa has to leave with me, unless a player kindly bring her back to Paris.

“Stay for lunch, Paul proposes as the other players head for the dining room. “It feels good to have new people here.

“Thank you,” I answer, “but I wouldn’t want to take advantage of the system.”

He stares at me and slightly frowns.

“Who tells you the system is not taking advantage of you?”

Antoine gives Paul a cold look, so much so I think for a second that he’s gonna jump on him. I didn’t think that such a nice and warm person could have so much anger in their eyes. Their a confused moment of silence and I have a hard time figuring out what is going on. Olivier coughs, bringing everyone back to reality.

“He meant abusing your charming company,” he reassures with a smoothing smile to me, “right Paul?”

“Of course,” Paul answers with a nonchalant voice.

“Let’s go,” Antoine says coldly.

He grabs my arm and takes me to the dining room, where we others are already sited. Antoine points at a chair to his and I sit between him and Paul. As for Louisa, she is sat between Hugo and Benjamin. The atmosphere is very joyful and way calmer than I expected. Antoine becomes his normal, joyful self and we talk with Paul and Emilien. The food is delicious and I have to say I’m having a real good time – and watching her talk vividly with Benjamin, Louisa seems to feel the same. After dessert, I check the time and see with regret that I have to go if I don’t want to arrive late at work. I let Antoine know and walk to Didier and the other members of the staff, who have already finished eating and get up at the same as I do.

“Thank you for everything, sir.”

“Please call me Didier. Antoine told me you’re coming to the match against the United-States?”

“Absolutely,” I answer. “Thank you for the tickets.”

“Of course. See you soon.”

When I leave the room, Louisa follows me and greet everybody goodbye before smiling at Benjamin. Antoine walks us to the door, and Louisa greets him before leaving us alone.

“Thanks for everything,” I say again. “It did Louisa some good, and it did me some good too.”

“Us too.”

“Are you sure you’re not have a problem with the coach or that your mates aren’t gonna tease you?” I ask.

The first question is an obsession.

“Oh, we tease each other for less that than,” he laughs softly. “Speaking of problems, though…”

Antoine looks at the ground for a second before looking at the window.

“The only problem I have,” he says, “is that the more I see you, the more I hate watching you leave.”

I have to take a second to understand the information.

“I feel the same,” I admit in a low voice, my eyes lowered. “I don’t like saying goodbye to you.”

He takes my hips, makes me come closer and puts his forehead on mine. I put my hands on his warm cheeks and kiss him. He kisses me back tenderly and it’s somehow as enjoyable as the kiss in the woods. We eventually separate, my hand in his.

“See you.”

“Bye.”0

I hear chairs moving and people going up stairs. I smile at him before opening the door, and at the moment when I lave the building, I swear I hear a sigh. I walk to the car, where Louisa is waiting for me, when I feel like somebody is watching me. I turn to the castle and expect Antoine to be staring at me from the window. But at a window on the second floor, for a short second, I perceive blond hair. 

*-*

I drop Louisa to our apartment for heaving up to work. I arrive slightly early and greet the welcoming ladies. I take the elevator to my floor and try to continue the organization of the gala, even if my brain just won’t stop thinking about what happened in the woods with Antoine. I think of his lips on my neck, his hands on my skin and a shiver goes down my spine. I shake my head and focuses on my work. Even if my ultimate goal is to be a translator and I’m taking a course to do that, I’ll admit that organizing a gala isn’t that bad. The most difficult part is to call people when you’re very shy and to pick things that my mother will like. When I’m about to take a break, I take the opportunity to learn more about the Bleus in general and their upcoming games – at least those at home. Searching up on the internet, I find an article whose title is very different from the others. If most articles talk about the upcoming World Cup, players that weren’t called by Didier Deschamps, some of the pictures the payers posted of their families, this article talks of a night club where most of the team went and got in a fight with other people. It’s really surprising considering no other website talk about that night. I tell myself that’s it’s probably just click bait when I’m distracted by my phone ringing. I look at it see my grand-mother’s name.

“Hello, darling.”

“Hi grandma, how are you? I’m sorry I didn’t call you earlier.”

“It’s alright, dear, I know you’re very busy.”

If she only knew. She asks about my parents and Noah’s health, talk about her neighbors, her plants, and book club and her volunteering in a charity for people in need. It runs in the family it would seem.

“I’ve read in a newspaper that the mayor is going to increase the library’s budget.”

She’s so adorable, how can I not be happy when she is?

“By the way, darling, was it you I saw in that magazine?”

“Oh, I guess so, it must have been for the gala,” I answer. “I was in charge of the last one.”

“Oh no, dear, I saw articles about the gala weeks ago. That one was talking about you and a boy.”

I almost choke on my water and my colleagues give me a weird look.

“What do you mean me ‘and a boy’?” I ask.

Jesus Christ.

I jump from my chair, my phone on my ear. Ignoring the surprised gazes of my colleagues, I leave the room, take the elevator – for the first time it seems slow – to the first floor and walk quickly to the newsagent nearby, 200 feet from the building. There are not many people at this hour and I walk to the end of the room. I observe all the magazines my eyes can see, and after two minutes I see the magazine my grand-mother wasn’t talking about.

Antoine Griezmann dating : who is his new darling, Gabrielle Darian?

“You’re right,” I say. “It was me.”

I quickly read the magazine before finding the page about Antoine and I. Damn it, I knew it. All around the text are pictures of him and I in front of the restaurant, and there is even one where we are about to kiss. Sighing, I go to pay the magazine and leave. I go back to the building and my floor where I’m alone, as all my coworkers left for a break.

“I didn’t know you had a boyfriend,” my grand-mother tells me.

Neither did I, grandma, neither did I.

“Neither did I,” I sigh. “I didn’t even know we were a couple, it’s…it’s very recent.”

“I see. But who is he? Is he famous?”

“Yes,” I answer. “He’s…His name is Antoine, he’s a football player.”

“Professional?”

“Yes, he plays for Madrid and the National Team.”

“Well, well. How did you guys meet?”

I quickly explain to her that we met at the gala – without telling her about him and my mates inviting themselves. She asks me several other questions but is happy for me.

“Can I you a question, Gabrielle?”

 Her voice, despite remaining sweet, became serious.”

“Of course.”

“Do you love this boy?”

*-*

After my day is over, I head for the exit of the building, my conversation with my grand-mother being stuck in my head. Do you love this boy? I thought I was in love with the boy I dated when I finished high school, but I realize that what I feel for Antoine is very different, and way stronger. I can’t stop thinking about him, which keeps me from sleeping – which isn’t that bad, though, as I keep having nightmares lately – and as I told him, when I am with him I want this moment to continue. When my grand-mother asked me that question, I answered her that I didn’t know. But the truth is, seeing hos things are going, it will be the case soon. So the real question is: when will I make the mistake of falling in love with him?

I’m so deep in my thoughts that only a small pain in my shoulder is able to bring me back to reality.

“Oh, sorry.”

“No, that’s on me…Gabrielle?!”

I raise my head and see a young woman with blond hair and large grey eyes. I’m about to ask her if we know one another when a memory strikes me.

“Ornella?”

Ornella, Noah’s one-night girlfriend he brought at one of our galas. When I saw her that night she was wearing a pretty nice dress, high heels and make up, today she is wearing a jean, a washed-out jacket and snickers, and her hair is in a ponytail. I’m surprised but happy to see her.

“How are you? What’s brings you here?”

“Oh, I’m visiting my aunt, she lives in the neighborhood.”

We chat, asking about our respective families’ health, and she tells me she is seeing someone at the moment. I’m relieved to hear it, as it happened before that one of Noah’s “girlfriends” can’t move on after their break-up. We exchange our phone numbers and promise to go have a coffee with Louisa soon. I head for the apartment, and when I hear Louisa on the phone – unless she’s talking to herself – I’m afraid she’s fighting with her mother again but I hear her laugh. She hangs up the moment I enter the living room and smiles at me.

“Was it Tatiana?” I ask.

Her smile doesn’t disappear and her cheeks turn pink.

“It was Benjamin.” she answers shyly, almost embarrassed.

“Pavard?” I say, surprise.

“Obviously,” she says, rolling her eyes. “Which other Benjamin do you want me to call? Benjamin Button?

I pour two glasses of apple juice and sit down next to her.

“You two got along well, then,” I tease her.

“Oh my gosh, Gaby,” Louisa says in an excited tone, turning to me. “He is so nice. And so funny and adorable.”

She starts a monologue of fifteen minutes – I counted – about how nice, funny, adorable, hilarious, respectful Benjamin is and she’s so happy that I don’t stop her. Once she’s done, I ask her what they talked about in the woods.

“Oh, anything and everything,” she answers in a calm tone with the same smile. “Of our families – I just told him I had a sister, as you can guess -, of college, of his club. Like you and Griezmann, I guess. Speak of the devil, what did you two talk about in the woods?

“Nothing special.”

“Did you kiss?” she asks with a teasing smile.

“Yes, we did.”

“And?”

“And nothing, we just talked and kissed, that’s all.”

This isn’t technically a lie. Louisa insists, and it’s hard not to tell her anything else. I always thought that she picked her course well, as she is very good at talking with people and make them admit their secrets or things they wouldn’t tell anybody else. When it’s time, we prepare diner and after eating we decide to go to sleep early, her because she works early tomorrow and me because I need sleep. Before entering her room, Louisa turns to me.

“They are very nice, though, letting us come to their place and stuff.”

I look at the last text Antoine sent me, whishing me a good night and I feel something weird in my stomach.

“Yes. Yes, they are.”

Want to be tagged? Just use my Ask-Box!

Masterlist

#griezmann #football #france nt #football fanfic #les bleus #antoine griezmann x reader #soccer #hugo lloris #olivier giroud #kylian mbappe #benjamin pavard #grizi #original female character #losing game #fanfic #antoine griezmann x original character #antoine griezmann

[ashleybenlove]

"I must say also a few words to you, my dear cousin, of little darling William. I wish you could see him; he is very tall of his age, with sweet laughing blue eyes, dark eye-lashes, and curling hair. When he smiles, two little dimples appear on each cheek, which are rosy with health. He has already had one or two little wives, but Louisa Biron is his favourite, a pretty little girl of five years of age.”

This is Straight Culture bullshit rearing its head as early as the 1800s.

#ashleybenlove posts #Frankenstein Weekly #Frankenstein

[coldwayhome]

hi, I want to request death by a thousand cuts for fem!reader please!

I'm asian, about 5'2 with short hair and brown eyes. extroverted and outgoing, chaotic person and a pain in the ass with friends (like literally), BUT shy with strangers mostly because I don’t know them or I'm uncomfortable around them. according to my friends, they thought I was quiet and calm person, when they saw me in public. I get irritated/mad quite easily around loved ones and it's like issue.

I like reading (my fav writers are Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott), watching movies, listening to music (HUGE TAYLOR SWIFT FAN, also I adore Lana Del Rey, Laufey, Bruno Mars and The Smiths). the most frustrating thing is that because of my optimistic behavior in society, people usually think I'm dummy.

and if you don’t mind, I wanted to say that my love language is physical touch and words of affirmation. I'll be looking forward to it and thanks in advance!

anon 🤍

౨ৎ ⋆˚ ONE FOR THE AGES

☆ DEATH BY A THOUSAND CUTS: send a description of yourself, and i'll assign you a best friend (based on the characters i write for)!

— okay this sounds random but you remind me of rarity from my little pony for some reason HAHA

— (that's a compliment she's my fav!!)

— anyways

— reading this, i immediately jumped to piper.

— in my view, piper is super welcoming and sweet to new people, yet stands her ground if she senses something wrong.

— when piper met you for the first time, she immediately knew she was going to be your best friend.

— call it aphrodite's intuition, spidey senses, whatever, but she made it her mission to crack your shell.

— shy at first, you were a bit intimidated by this girl towering over you (piper is 5'10 fight me), asking you questions and making direct eye contact.

— she somehow convinced you to take a walk with her around camp, showing you around.

— she continued her interrogation questioning, and you slowly started to open up.

— it wasn't as though she was making you uncomfortable, but she can definitely be a lot if you aren't used to her energy.

— you opened up about your favorite hobbies and interests, and piper saw you were becoming more comfortable with her.

— she was internally cheering! of course, piper could charmspeak someone to be her friend, but she was absolutely against that.

— making friends has always been hard for piper, partly because of her father. she grew up too fast :(

— so seeing you smiling with her, her heart grew.

— hanging out with you for the next few weeks made her so happy! she introduced you to leo and jason, and even her cabinmates took interest in you.

— you turned piper on to your favorite music and books, and found similar activities you could do together (piper's personal favorite is strawberry picking)

— you both liked to chill, too. painting nails and dancing to your shared playlist were just some of the things you enjoyed together.

— growing closer with you was one of piper's highlights of camp. she enjoyed having a friend like you, one she could hold hands with without it being "weird".

— piper is so happy to be your friend 🤍

ahh thank you for rqing anon!!! piper is my girl and i love her so much; i hope you do too! feel free to leave feedback or new rqs in my inbox!! (p.s your guys' laufey song is best friend <33)

#event: my lover #starrie night #anon 🤍 #piper mclean x reader #piper mclean #heroes of olympus x reader #heroes of olympus

[lulubelle814]

Regards, Loki - Chapter 29

Master List

On Sunday, the charity gala details had reached Louisa.  “It sounds incredible!”

Cora was just as excited.  “I wonder if anyone can go?  Does it say how much tickets are?”

She looked at the news article and did some googling before coming up defeated.  “It’s by invitation only.”  They groaned collectively.  Rather than sit about and sulk, they decided to host their own Labyrinth night that evening and would invite Chad and Brad.  Louisa would bake a few things.  Chad and Brad said they’d come and bring the food, and Cora would bring the drinks.  The movie part was set to start at 6 that evening.  

Louisa decided to make a couple different things: lemon bars and millionaire bars.  Getting an early start, they were done by 3 pm.  As she was putting them in containers, she had an idea.

Louisa:  Hey Bruno!  How’s your day going?

Bruno: It’s going well, Ms. Louisa.  How are you?

Louisa: It’s going well!  I just made a few things and was wondering if you could take a container of them to Loki?

Bruno:  I can come by in about an hour.

Louisa: You are the best!  And I will have your payment as well: your own container of treats.

Bruno: Ms. Louisa, you spoil me.

She spent the next 20 minutes or so figuring out the best way to package them so they wouldn’t end up smashing into each other during their transit.  Eventually, she decided to use a larger container and place wax paper between each treat.  She still had some spritz left (and they were still soft and tasty) and included a few of those.

When Bruno came knocking, she was ready for him and gave him a bright smile.  “I have one for you, and one for Loki.”  

Bruno was always happy to help her.  Even with everything that’s happened since he met her, she was still a sweet lady which he found was a rare find these days, and he wanted to help protect her from those who’d try to change that.

“You are too kind, Ms. Louisa.”  He opened his container to find not 1 but 3 different treats.  He pulled out one of the biscuits as it’d be the least messy and took a bite, humming with delight.  “You’ve outdone yourself!”

“I’m glad you like them!”

“I have some free time.  So I’ll take these over to him now.  You two are lucky I like you.  Otherwise, I’d just keep this second container for myself.”  They laughed together.  “I had a similar issue with my friend Chad last night.  I texted his hubs about the treats he was bringing home to make sure they actually made it home.”

“I can’t say I blame the guy.  You are an incredible baker.  You should think about finding somewhere to sell these, like a farmer’s market or something.”

She laughed.  “You’re too kind, but no one would want to buy this.  Plus, it’s just something I do for fun.  I start back to my job soon, and this has been a great stress relief.”

“If you ever decide to, consider me your first customer.”  He smiled at her.

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

******************************************************************************

It was almost an hour later (thanks to awful traffic) when he arrived at James’ door where he was already expected but had let him know he’d be a bit delayed.  When James welcomed him in, Bruno handed him the container of treats.  “Compliments of Ms. Sigyn, sir.”

James took the proffered container and opened it, smelling the delicious treats. He instantly recognized the biscuits as the same ones she’d sent him a picture of a couple days ago.  Not wasting a moment, he picked one up and took a bite.  His eyes went big as he tasted them, quickly eating the rest of it.  

“I told her she should consider selling her baked goods, but she doesn’t think anyone would buy them.  You and I both know she’d be a big hit.”

James couldn’t agree more.  Before he could say anything, Bruno spoke up again.  “She did mention something in passing that I thought you’d like to know.”

“Oh?”  He was curious.

“That man she went to the movie with?  Chad?”

“Yes?  What about him?”  He was hoping for some good news when it came to that man.

“You’ll be delighted to know that he’s married.”  He could see the smile appearing on James’ face but then dropped.

“If he’s married, why is he going out with her to a movie?”

Bruno grinned.  “She told me that she gave Chad some treats to take home…….to his husband.”

James laughed, obvious relief spreading through him.  Bruno was glad he could cheer him up.  “You said you had an errand you’d like me to run?  I’m assuming it has to do with Ms. Sigyn.”

James thought for a moment, lost in the flood of relief.  “Oh yes!”  He ran to his office and came back with an elegant envelope.  “Would you mind, terribly, taking this to her?”

******************************************************************************

Back at her place, Louisa changed into clean comfy clothes as her previous clothes were covered in sugar and flour.  She made a mental note to get an apron.  

Everyone started arriving early around 5:30, and of course, Cora brought up the upcoming gala.  The guys were stunned and asked about tickets but quickly became jealous when Cora and Louisa told them it was a charity event by invite only.  “Who do we have to bribe to get an invite?”  They laughed knowing they’d never get to go.

Louisa queued the movie while the others brought the food and drinks to the living room, placing them on the table.  As expected, everyone sang along with the songs throughout the movie; however, when it came to the ballroom sequence dream, they all watched in awe.

“I wish I could go to a ball like that,” Louisa said.  “It’s been a dream of mine since I was little.”

At the very moment when Jareth starts to dance with Sarah, there was a knock at the door.  Looking at each other, no one had any idea who it could be.

Cora suggested it was probably someone going door to door selling magazines or something like that, but Louisa was curious enough to go check.  Looking through the peephole, she was surprised to see Bruno was back and opened the door.  “Is everything ok?”

Bruno smiled and held out the envelope.  “For you from Mr. Loki.”  She was confused as she took the envelope.  Bruno bid his farewells and left.

“Who was that, sweetie?”  Brad was nosey.  Cora filled him in on the details about Bruno being a go-between for her and Loki.  Louisa made her way back to the couch, staring at the invitation.

“Are you going to open that?  Or do you have x-ray vision and are reading it through the envelope?”  Chad smacked Brad on the arm.  “What?  If she’s not going to open it, I will.”  He made the motion to swipe the envelope from her but stopped when she flipped it over, starting to open it.

Pulling out the elegant paper, she read it and was stunned to silence.  Cora looked over her shoulder trying to see what it was.  Since neither spoke, Brad snatched it, and the envelope, away to take a look before Chad could stop him (not that Chad would have because he was dying to know what was in the envelope as well).

“You are hereby invited to the Labyrinth themed Charity Ball.”  The invitation included the time, date, and location.  “Honey, I don’t care what plans you might have for that night, but consider them canceled!  You have to go!”

Chad took the invitation to look at it, but Brad held it away.  The only thing he got in the attempt was the envelope.  It didn’t take him long to notice there was still something in there.  Opening the envelope back up, he saw there was a folded note.  Taking it out, he unfolded it and read aloud.

Dear Sigyn,

I hope you will do me the honor of joining me at the ball?  I know our arrangement was set for anonymity, but I would very much like to meet you if you are comfortable doing so.  I will not be offended if you say no.  You are welcome to use the invitation either way.  

While the theme is Labyrinth (which I know is your favorite movie), it is also a masquerade ball.  So there will be no need to worry about revealing yourself should you not wish to.

I hope you choose to attend.  I believe it will be a magical night for everyone attending.

Regards,

Loki

Cora grinned, secretly knowing that Loki was planning something like this, but she didn’t know the extent of it.  

Louisa was even more stunned, if that was possible, and Cora could see she was becoming overwhelmed.  “It’s okay if you’re not ready to meet him.  You don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”

“But she……” Cora glared at Chad which shut him right up.

“And you don’t have to decide it right now.  It’s not happening for a month.  If you decide to go, we’ll help you look for a dress.  If you don’t want to go, we’ll all forget about it.”

Louisa looked at Cora, grateful for her best friend.  At this moment, she had no idea where she’d be without her.  Deep down, she knew she wanted to go.  Amidst their texts, she felt a bond with this man and was curious as to his identity but wanted to respect his wishes.  Now that he revealed he wanted to meet her, too?

“I don’t know, Cor.  What if he finds me disappointing?”  

Cora wrapped her arm around her friend.  “I think the question should be will you find him disappointing.  You are an amazing woman.  Any man would be lucky to know you.”  Brad and Chad wholeheartedly agreed.  They all thought she should go, but no one wanted to pressure her into doing something if she didn’t want to do it.

Taglist: @huntress-artemiss @jaidenhawke

#tom hiddleston #twh #tomhiddleston #twhiddleston #damn hiddleston #hiddlestoners #thomas william hiddleston #hiddleston #hiddles #loki #sigyn #tom hiddleston fanfiction #tom hiddelston imagine #tom hiddelston x reader #tom hiddelson #tom hiddleston x original female character #tom hiddleston x reader #tom hiddleston x ofc #tom hiddleston x you #james conrad #james conrad AU #james conrad x original female character #james conrad x reader #james conrad x ofc #james conrad x you #regards loki #lulubelle814

[silvfyre-writings]

I love those eyes of yours (BSD Fanfic)

May I present to you, fluff, and nothing but fluff for a change :D

This fic was born because a friend and I were chatting and the topic of make-up came up and we were like "what if Poe wore make-up?" and thus, I got to writing. Just some short, soft, and sweet fluff. Enjoy, my friend!!!

Poe was used to Ranpo inviting himself over without warning, so much so that when he got back from his walk and saw Ranpo fast asleep on his couch, he didn’t even blink. He just stood there a moment and watched as Ranpo slept, stretched out with his arms resting above his head. Ranpo’s face is smoothed out and relaxed, unlike the last time Poe had seen the other when it had been creased in stress and exhaustion. Poe smiles and steps into the room, and his smile grows as Karl leaps off his shoulders and curls up on the blanket that’s covering Ranpo’s legs, tucking his tiny snout under his tail.

Poe wishes so bad that he had a camera on him, just so that he could snap a picture to forever remember the sight in front of him.

Knowing that Karl will be enough of a note to tell Ranpo he’s returned home from his outing, Poe makes his way up the stairs to change into more comfortable clothing; he’d gone out to lunch with Louisa and Lucy after the two had consistently nagged that they never saw him anymore, so he’d dressed up a little when he’d gone to meet them. It wasn’t anything outside of what he usually did when going out—a change of clothes, sweeping his bangs out of his eyes, and some simple make-up—but it was nice to do on the odd occasion. Poe lets out a sigh upon entering his room, immediately shrugging off his coat and throwing it onto the bed; the rest of his clothing follows suite and he pulls on the comfiest pair of sweatpants he owns, along with a hoodie, before heading to the bathroom.

Poe doesn’t wear a lot of make-up, nor does he wear it often, but he does enjoy wearing it whenever he makes the decision to. It gives him that little bit of extra confidence that he lacks. Of course, while he enjoys it, the worst part is always having to remove it when he comes home, mostly because he’s tired and wants to sleep—like right now. But he knows that if he doesn’t remove it now, it’ll become near impossible to remove later.

Poe moves to grab what he needs from his bathroom before moving back to his room to sit in front of the mirror that he has there. He sits on the floor and pins his hair back so it’s entirely out of his face, but before he can get started, he’s distracted by the pitter patter of paws, and the soft footsteps that follow that are coming up the stairs. Poe looks over just as his bedroom door is opened; Karl comes racing into the room and launches himself onto Poe’s bed, staring at Poe with beady eyes before he starts to groom himself. Ranpo follows a moment later, and pauses when his eyes meet Poe’s own; a soft look forms on the detectives face and he crosses the room to drape himself over Poe’s shoulders.

“You didn’t wake me.” Ranpo pouts, resting his chin on top of Poe’s head as he watches Poe in the mirror. “Why?”

“You looked tired, and I didn’t want to disturb you.” Poe turns his head to the side and presses a kiss to Ranpo’s cheek, smiling when Ranpo’s cheeks turn pink and he hides his face into Poe’s neck. “When did you get here?”

“Around nine. You were already gone though.” Ranpo pulls away and stands up behind Poe. “I didn’t know you wore make-up.”

“I don’t normally. I usually do it when I go out with others.” Poe says, and now that he doesn’t have an entire person leaning against him, can finally begin to clean his face.

“Oh, so you’ve worn it around me before? How come I’ve never seen it?”

“I have worn it. It’s just my bangs usually hide it, that’s all.” Poe nods, and looks over his shoulder at Ranpo and blinks. He thought he’d noticed something different about Ranpo’s choice in clothing just before when his partner had entered the room, but hadn’t had the chance to really look until now. “Is that a new skirt?”

“It is!” Ranpo spins so show off the newest addition to his wardrobe, looking incredibly pleased with himself as he does so. “Yosano saw it when she went shopping last time and bought it for me. I wanted to show it to you, but you weren’t home and I fell asleep so it’s a little creased, but—”

“I think it looks nice.” Poe interrupts before Ranpo can get started on a ramble that won’t stop for ten minutes as he tries to justify his every decision since leaving his own home that morning. He knows it’s just what Ranpo does when he’s worrying about something, so he tries his best not to get irritated when it happens, and instead gently stop his partner. Poe gives a gentle smile before he turns back to the mirror and scrubs at his face. “It suits you.”

“You think so?” Ranpo sighs and drops to sit next to him. “People kept giving me strange looks on my way here.”

“People tend to stare at things they aren’t sure about or are curious about. I know it’s uncomfortable, but it’s not necessarily a bad thing, unless they say something to you.” Poe pauses in what he’s doing and gives Ranpo a look. “No one gave you trouble did they?”

Ranpo shakes his head. “No trouble.”

Relief fills Poe; it wouldn’t be the first time someone had dared to give the detective trouble for wanting to wear something different to his usual garb, and it wouldn’t be the last, but he could only hope that those incidents lessened as time passed by and people became more accepting. “Good, you deserve to wear what you want to wear. What clothes you choose to wear isn’t really anyone’s business but your own honestly. And I know it’s not common over here in Japan, but in the western countries, it’s not uncommon to see people dressing how they want, regardless of whether they are ‘girl’ or ‘boy’ clothes.”

“I know.” Ranpo closes his eyes as he rests his head against Poe’s shoulder. “Is it the same with make-up? Everyone wears it?”

“Not everyone, but the people that enjoy wearing it—male, female, or other—wear it. Why do you ask?”

There’s no answer to his question, and the weight against his shoulder disappears, which is enough to have Poe frowning as he looks into the mirror to see Ranpo staring at the ground, fingers fidgeting with his clothes. He recognizes the tension in Ranpo’s shoulders, the lines of uncertainty in his face; the detective wants something, but isn’t sure of how to ask about it. “Ranpo?”

It takes several beats of silence before Ranpo finally speaks. “Could I try some?”

“Make-up?”

“Yeah.”

Poe puts down the cloth he’d been using to wash his face and spins to face Ranpo so he doesn’t have to use the mirror to determine Ranpo’s mood. His partner still refuses to make eye contact with him, which is fine, but Poe’s a little curious where this has come from. He’s more than happy to show Ranpo how to apply some of the lighter stuff, but he also knows Ranpo well enough to know that the other man wouldn’t enjoy wearing it. And he says as much. “Sure, but… I’m not sure you’ll like it.”

Ranpo shrugs, and finally, lifts his head from the floor. “I’d like to try.”

“Alright. Give me a minute, and I can help you.”

“Wait, right now?” Ranpo blinks, looking a little stunned, probably at how quickly Poe had agreed to indulge him.

“You can just use some of mine. There’s no point going out and buying stuff for yourself if you won’t like it and use it.” Poe explains as he gets up and gathers everything into his arms, returning it to its rightful place in the bathroom before he grabs the kit that houses all his make-up.

He hears Ranpo from the other room. “Oh, makes sense. Okay then.”

“Sit still, Ranpo, or I’ll wind up poking your eye out.” Poe says as he gently grasps Ranpo’s chin as the other jerks away from him once again. He’s trying to apply eyeliner, which he’d thought would be the easiest part, considering he has no trouble with it himself, but he realized his mistake when Ranpo had eyed the innocent stick with more caution than was necessary. He was further proven wrong when he’d tried to apply the eyeliner for the first time, only to have Ranpo nearly throw himself off the bed trying to get away from him.

“Why does it have to come so close to my eye?” Ranpo whines, only flinching slightly as the stick finally makes contact with his skin. He remains tense as Poe gently applies the eyeliner, but he doesn’t jerk away.

“It’s called eyeliner for a reason, Ranpo.” Poe huffs through the smile on his face. He made sure to let Ranpo know that if he wanted to stop, all he had to do was tell him so; until then though, Poe would enjoy Ranpo’s whining and complaints. “Look up towards the roof, it should help.”

Ranpo’s eyes flick up towards the ceiling, and just like that, the flinching eases off. It’s still there, but much less than before, and it only takes Poe a few minutes before he finishes with the eyeliner. Poe leans back and studies his handiwork just to make sure that he’s actually made it look even; it’s quite different applying makeup to another person instead of himself, but he finds himself pretty impressed with the end result. “Done.”

“Is the rest of it going to be like that?” Ranpo asks as he checks himself out in the mirror. At first, his expression doesn’t appear to be very impressed, but then he turns his head a specific way and his mouth drops open slightly. “Oh, my eyes look brighter. Weird”

“That’s one of the things eyeliner does.” Poe answers as he pulls out the next part of what he has planned, which is foundation. Luckily, he’d had some of the powder kind, because there would’ve been no chance of Ranpo letting him smear cream all over his face—Ranpo doesn’t even like the feeling of sunscreen against his skin on the days he needs that, so he feels that make-up cream would not be taken well. “Do you want to keep going, or is the eyeliner enough?”

Ranpo thinks and looks at the little container in Poe’s hands before he shakes his head. “I’m done. I tried. Sorry.”

“That’s fine.” Poe puts down the container in his hand. “Do you want me to remove the eyeliner?”

“No, I don’t mind it.” Ranpo says, eyeing himself in the mirror again. “I don’t know how you do it without fear of poking your eye.”

Poe gets up from the bed and returns everything to the bathroom before he comes back and sits next to Ranpo on the bed. “Lot’s of practice. If you ever want to wear it again, I can show you how to do it yourself.”

“No thanks, if I want to wear it again, I’d rather you do it.” Ranpo faces Poe and leans in close, so close that Poe has to lean back slightly to see the other’s face clearly. Ranpo grins at him. “You like me wearing this eyeliner stuff, don’t you? ‘Cause it brings out my eyes more and you always said you liked my eyes.”

Poe huffs a laugh. He can’t disagree there; he does love Ranpo’s eyes. They are the greenest eyes he’s seen in his life, and so full of life and emotion that he couldn’t help but fall head over heels for them. It’s made even better by the fact that Ranpo keeps his eyes closed most of the time, so getting to see those eyes before they’d gotten together, was a rare sight that Poe always looked forward to. “I do love those eyes of yours.”

“And me? You love me too, right?”

“Of course, Ranpo.” Poe leans in and gives Ranpo a gentle kiss that Ranpo is quick to reciprocate. “How could I not love you?”

#bsd #bungo stray dogs #bsd fanfic #ranpoe #fluff #boys in love #edogawa ranpo #edgar allan poe #writing #fanfic

[husnakara]

Me Before You - Jojo Moyes

Never in my life have I cried so hard that my lips were still swollen the next day.

Don't get me wrong, I loved this novel. In fact, I loved it so much that, although I only purchased it two months ago, the pages have already started to brown.

The plot is as follows:

Louisa Clarke is an eccentric young woman, living life in her hometown. After being dismissed from her quaint job at the cafe in town, Louisa must find another job to help her family make ends meet.

Will Traynor, a suicidal quadriplegic, has lost all meaning to his life. His mother worries and takes to hiring a caretaker to brighten up his day.

Can Louisa save Will from his worst enemy, his mind? Or has Will rushed too far into the void?

As a reader, I fell in love with both characters. There's a sweetness to their relationship that is explored and a fondness that most adult fiction lacks in writing these days.

Whether it was the way his eyes lingered on her as they watched a movie or his smile as she broke out of her shell, I too was mesmerised. It had me squealing and kicking my feet under my duvet covers as I read on.

Despite all this sweetness, there was pain of course. Though it left my heart split in two, I appreciated the realism of it. Had the story taken a last minute turn, it would have felt rushed and abrupt.

Overall, I would rate this novel a 9/10. It was a beautiful novel, full of conflict and hope.

A realistic story with authentic characters.

Warnings: attempted suicide.

#book review #one of the best #cried my eyes out #romance #me before you #jojo moyes

[gion-division]

“Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations.”

Introduction

Moriko Himawari, also known as Canopus in rap battles, is the third member of Hana no Joō. A cheerful actress most known for being in horror and action series / films, Moriko retired to focus on pursuing a manga artist career. This decision has made her relationship with her family incredibly strained, to the point she’s even running away from them.

Biographical Information

Name: Moriko Himawari / Himawari Moriko

Moriko (森子) - “Forest Child”

Himawari (向日葵) - “Sunflower”

Aliases:

Himewari (fans)

Sunny / Sunshine

Final Girl Queen

Gender: Female

Age: 21

Birthday: October 12th

Star Sign: Libra

Ethnicity: Half-Japanese, Half-South African

Hair Color: Dark brown with blonde highlights

Eye Color: Green

Height: 183cm / 5’11”

Weight: 167lbs / 76kg

Piercings: Tongue piercing

Markings: A couple faded bruises from messing up stunts.

Family:

Unnamed father (Deceased)

Unnamed mother

Fun Facts

MC Name: Canopus

Occupation: Ex-Actress | Manga Artist

Division: Gion

Team: Hana No Joō / Flower Queen

Position: Third Member

Favorite Food: Koeksisters

Least Favorite Food: Taro

Likes: Weapons, anime and manga, talking to people, and harajuku sweets.

Dislikes: Tight schedules, people who are rude / arrogant at first meetings, too many rules, and pointless fights.

Appearance

Moriko is a tall brown-skinned woman with a toned build. She has long, curly brown hair that reaches her back, with yellow at the tips; it’s normally put up in a ponytail. Her bangs are swept to her right, framing her green eyes. On her neck she’s wearing a black choker with a cream-colored flower.

She wears a pale yellow cardigan that has flowers and butterfly patterns on it, and a white sleeveless kimono top with black lining and a slit on its side. On her waist is a dark brown strap for her katana. Her sweatpants are dark red and she wears white sneakers. She also wears black gloves with gold lining.

Personality

The most accurate way to describe Moriko is cheerful. She’s the typical genki girl: usually smiling, kind, and energetic. She always wears her heart on her sleeve. It kind of makes other civilians uncomfortable around her though because she keeps talking even if they want to be left alone, so it feels like she doesn’t know how to read the room.

Moriko’s also quite rebellious, often breaking rules if she doesn’t find them necessary or doing things her own way if she doesn’t like the way someone else does it. She’s been restricted for most of her life, let her be free for a bit~ Granted she’s gotten into trouble for being like this but who cares!

Despite her friendliness, she absolutely loves the thought of fighting if it means she gets to have fun. Whether it be physically or with a microphone, Moriko absolutely loves a challenge and enjoys the thrill, which is why she joined the DRB with Koyumi. Most of the time she doesn’t really take it as an actual competition though, she sees it as a “friendly battle” and hopes to be friends with the “enemy” afterwards like what happens in some animes. It’s not her being stupid or naive, she just has a lot of hope for people. It’s hard to get her to truly hate someone.

Hypnosis Mic

Her microphone is a long and golden circle microphone. In the middle of the circle is a five-pointed star with a yellow speaker.

Her speakers take the form of a golden astrolabe in the sky, acting as the sun. Surrounding her is a bamboo forest.

Her rap ability is Sunlight, which makes her speaker flash a bright light on the entire area for a few seconds to blind her opponent(s) and make them bypass their turn. On the other side, it heals her team. She can only use this ability two times in each battle however.

Trivia

Yes, the katana’s real.

Moriko is ambidextrous, but leans towards using her left hand.

Her birthday is a reference to Joshua 10-12, ‘The Sun Stands Still’.

Her MC name is the name of the star associated with Chaxiraxi, a goddess often known as the Sun Mother.

Her quote is from Louisa May Alcott; the full quote is “Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead."

Moriko is very popular with the gyaru community.

Unsurprisingly, Moriko’s a gamer. She even has a Youtube channel where she plays a lot of fighting and horror games like the Mortal Kombat series, Street Fighter, Samurai Shodown, etc.

Moriko already has a whole list of lore for the worlds and characters of her manga idea. She can ramble about it for hours, please talk to her about this. No this is absolutely not me self-projecting.

She’s the main driver in the team, owning both a car and a motorcycle. She’s gotten into a lot of car chases though, which has destroyed property so she needs to apologize and pay for things often.

#hypnosis mic oc #hypmic oc #oc profile #gion division #hana no joō #flower queen #moriko himawari #i dont know how to lineart curly hair ahahaha ( ；∀；) #AAAAAAAAA #HAPPY BELATED BDAY MORIIIII #I PROCRASTINATED TVT

[littlewomenpodcast]

What you think of Jo's comment after Beth dies that she tries to be more good than Amy and gets less than her? I feel like this might have more to do with Jo herself than Amy, because Amy did try hard to be good and reaped rewards for it too. Jo was bad so she lost out on Europe.

That is a great question. Let’s look at the chapter “All Alone” 

“And that’s our cool, reserved, and worldly Amy! Truly, love does work miracles. How very, very happy they must be!” and Jo laid the rustling sheets together with a careful hand, as one might shut the covers of a lovely romance, which holds the reader fast till the end comes, and he finds himself alone in the workaday world again.

By-and-by Jo roamed away upstairs, for it was rainy, and she could not walk. A restless spirit possessed her, and the old feeling came again, not bitter as it once was, but a sorrowfully patient wonder why one sister should have all she asked, the other nothing. It was not true, she knew that and tried to put it away, but the natural craving for affection was strong, and Amy’s happiness woke the hungry longing for someone to ‘love with heart and soul, and cling to while God let them be together’. Up in the garret, where Jo’s unquiet wanderings ended stood four little wooden chests in a row, each marked with its owners name, and each filled with relics of the childhood and girlhood ended now for all. Jo glanced into them, and when she came to her own, leaned her chin on the edge, and stared absently at the chaotic collection, till a bundle of old exercise books caught her eye. She drew them out, turned them over, and relived that pleasant winter at kind Mrs. Kirke’s. She had smiled at first, then she looked thoughtful, next sad, and when she came to a little message written in the Professor’s hand, her lips began to tremble, the books slid out of her lap, and she sat looking at the friendly words, as they took a new meaning, and touched a tender spot in her heart.

“Wait for me, my friend. I may be a little late, but I shall surely come”.

I must say I agree with you, this is a more about Jo’s personal growth than it is about Amy. 

Jo has also compared herself to Meg in the same chapter

As they sat sewing together, Jo discovered how much improved her sister Meg was, how well she could talk, how much she knew about good, womanly impulses, thoughts, and feelings, how happy she was in husband and children, and how much they were all doing for each other.

“Marriage is an excellent thing, after all. I wonder if I should blossom out half as well as you have, if I tried it?, always ‘perwisin’ I could,” said Jo, as she constructed a kite for Demi in the topsy-turvy nursery.

“It’s just what you need to bring out the tender womanly half of your nature, Jo. You are like a chestnut burr, prickly outside, but silky-soft within, and a sweet kernal, if one can only get at it. Love will make you show your heart one day, and then the rough burr will fall off.”

She also says to her mother that “she would like to try all kinds of love” and that love of the family used to be enough for her, but it is not anymore”. Louisa May Alcott’s original name suggestion for the part 2 was called “leaving the nest” which perfectly sums up Jo’s growth. She does not spite Amy for getting things, she is jealous to Amy because she herself is lonely. 

There is a diary marking from Louisa May Alcott after her sister May married. It pretty much echoes this chapter 

”Happy letters from May, who is enjoying life as one can but once” Then with a sudden vision of her own lonely lot, she exclaims: ”How different our lives are just now. I was so lonely, and sick and she was so happy and blest. She always had the cream of things and deserved it. My time is yet to come somewhere else when I am ready for it”.

Once again there is jealosy for the sister’s happiness. Louisa May Alcott believed in re-carnation and she wrote that in her “next life” she gets her rewards and she deserves them because she has been “good” and made lots of sacrifices for her family and career. This is very sad, that she could not find happiness during her life, but she found consolation in her books when she wrote happy endings to her characters. 

A lot of times in life when personal crisis happens, in this case a death of a loved one, it can create personal transformation in an invidual. Jo already fell in love with Friedrich in New York, even if she did not know how to put it into words, Beth’s dead in away forced her to think her own life more in depth and what future holds for her. 

[novelmonger]

Book Review: Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott

Recommended by @sailforvalinor as part of the 2023 Book Rec Exchange

Premise: Rose Campbell is a thirteen-year-old girl who has recently been orphaned after caring for her ailing father. Now she is being raised by a couple of great-aunts, but soon her care will be taken over by her uncle, a single man who has been working abroad. Because of a rift in the family, she has never met him nor the many aunts, uncles, and cousins she now finds herself in the midst of. Many adventures ensue as she spends her first year in this new, sometimes intimidating but ultimately wholesome, situation.

Thoughts: What a delightful read! I really wish this had been the book thrust upon me over and over again when I was a kid, instead of Little Women; I think I would have appreciated it much more at that age. Alas, instead I ended up with an unfairly poor impression of Louisa May Alcott, simply because little me was bored by the romance at the end of the March sisters' story ^^'

But in Eight Cousins, I immediately fell in love with every single character I encountered. Especially the cousins. I had much sympathy for Rose's apprehension when she learns that she's going to be spending a lot of time with her seven cousins who are all boys; I probably would have thought the same thing at that age. But all of them are so sweet and kind, not looking down on Rose because she's "just a girl," not excluding her in their games, but going out of their way to include her and respect her even when she's not inclined to go frolicking around like they do. I think my favorite cousin was Archie, because he's so sensible and respectful, a natural leader; it was easy to see why the others follow his example and look up to him so much. A close second was Jamie, who is six and utterly adorable, from the time they meet and he immediately asks for candy, to the part in the last chapter where he promises to wash his hands before he touches her if she'll just go and live with him X3

It wasn't just the cousins that I fell in love with, though. I instantly liked Phebe, the servant girl Rose befriends early on and decides to "adopt." It reminded me a lot of Sara and Becky in A Little Princess. And of course I loved Uncle Alec, Rose's guardian, right off. He's so interesting, with all of the things he's brought back from his travels and his unconventional approach to raising her and improving her health, but it's so clear to see that he's just brimming over with love for his little niece. An eccentric uncle who will brook no nonsense but give his charge everything she needs and more with a heart of true generosity? What's not to love?

The book is a simple read, almost episodic even, but I really enjoyed it. It's full of wholesome joy and delightful people living life together. There's no real antagonist and not much conflict beyond the ordinary ups and downs of life, but that doesn't diminish the story in any way. It brought me many laughs, lots of smiles, and even a few sweet tears. It gets my stamp of approval, and I look forward to reading the sequel to find out what happens next to all of these wonderful characters.

#book thoughts #eight cousins #louisa may alcott #book rec exchange 2023