#woohoo another late night post from yours truly!

[mayuichi]

“... I didn't meant what I said.„

Saigiku Jouno x Reader Warning: unhealthy relationship behaviors (sorry I can't see Jouno be capable to have a healthy relationship with anybody)

Note : I skipped yesterday in my everyday fic because of some sickness, so I have to post twice today woohoo! I really hope I'll feel better soon ughhh

Art from the anime.

Despite the blanket covering your lap, you keep shivering from the cool air. Autumn slowly letting place to winter, December becoming colder day by day. It was one of the snowy days today. Those days you would love to spend home with your boyfriend.

Speaking of which, it was getting late, night already settled down. Yet he still isn't home. It isn't even surprising, he is part of the Hunting Dogs after all. You're used for him to get home extremely late, if just not coming home at all.

Sitting on the sofa, looking at some stupid TV show to pass the time, you're reading a book at the same time. You just want some background noises to not suffocate from the silence. You work too, of course, but your shift finishes at 5pm. It's already been two hours you're trying to kill time.

You have been waiting long enough, you're pretty sure he won't come home anytime soon. Placing down your book and turning the TV off, you make your way to the kitchen. Once again, you'd make food only for yourself. How long has it been since your last meal together ? A bit too long.

Picking each ingredient carefully, you start making yourself dinner, every so often glancing toward the window in case you'd see him come home. While waiting for the cooking to be over, checking from time to time in the oven, you pick your phone.

“I'll lock the front door. Be careful to not wake me up when you'll come home, if you even do. I have to wake up early tomorrow.„

You're pretty sure he won't even read it now. There has always been some ups and downs in between you, but it's been a while since the last good time. You couldn't help but doubt his words again. You sigh, feeling helpless.

Eating alone, you use once more the TV as only company. Does he love me? You question your own mind, knowing damn well it'll only hurt you further. But those questions keep repeating themselves in your mind until the next day.

Even throuhough your shift. You're tensed, so anxious it needs to end. He hasn't answered your last text, and didn't even went home.

Walking home, your head low, you don't want to see anyone. Holding the end of your scarf, you hurry back home. The cold air reddening your nose and ears, your fingers taking a blue tint. You even struggle to open your door, your hands shaking.

Rapidly closing the door behind you, you rub your hands against one another, yearning for some warmth. Without undoing your scarf or jacket, you make your way to the kitchen to make yourself a hot chocolate, only to see a tall figure waiting against the cupboard.

He is facing you, his arms crossed as a smirk adorned his face. “I can feel that you missed me, didn't you ?„ he hums. It isn't truly a question, he already knows the answer. Yet you don't plan on giving him one.

He raises an eyebrow when he hears your steps leaving to the bedroom, where you take off your scarf, jacket and shoes. He follows you close. “Aren't you planning on answering me ? Is it too much to ask to your little self?„

His smirk widens when he feels your heartbeat increase. He absolutely loves the way he can play your emotions like an instrument. So easy to read, and to control. “If you can't even utter a word, then what's the purpose of my presence. I thought you'd jump in my arms. Or perhaps... You don't truly love me ?„

He steps closer and closer, until his slender figure is hovering you, almost pinning you against the wall. Fluttering your eyes shut, anxiety rising in your body, your voice almost breaking as you speak. “I.. should be the one asking you that..„

He huffs in response, unsure of what you are trying to tell him. He brings his fingers under your chin. “Go ahead, word your thoughts then. I am all ears, darling.„

Your breath itchs in your throat. Feeling his soft yet hot breath against your nose, you muttered in a shy voice. “... I know your work asks you a lot of your time but.. You don't even text me...„

You see his expression not faltering even in the slightless. Instead, he just pulls away, sighing in disappointment. “Are you that needy ? Greedy for attention ? You should've known better when you desired to be with me. If you can't keep up, then I might just leave.„

His words sink in your mind. You turn your head away, barely capable to answer. “... I understand...„ it took you all your might to not let your voice break, but he knows better. He knows deep down you're dying from his words.

And even if he feels regret, speaking and admitting them out loud is another thing. He watches as you make your way to the living room, where you snuggle under the blanket and turn the TV on. He has always been cruel, but never going to that extend. Never expressing anything about leaving.

What if he truly does ? Would it make him feel better ? But you, in all that ? Does he think about how you feel ? You endured all his words, and his sadist behavior all the time, for only little to no comforting moment. You just have to handle it. Yet you are at your breaking point.

Drowning your sorrow and pain in that stupid show. It's all you can do if you don't want your mind to make you suffocate. The night quickly arrives, and with that, the cold breeze from the open window too.

Too absorbed into forgetting your aching heart, you don't hear the footsteps making their way to close the window. “Darling,„ his tone surprisingly sweet. “Here. I wouldn't want you to freeze.„

He places a hot chocolate in front of you on the coffee table, sitting down next to you. He doesn't try to touch you in any way though, surely knowing it isn't the time for it. You stare at the gentle treat he gives you.

You hesitantly reach for the cup, feeling its warmth spreading through your hands. You see him pick the TV remote to lower the volume. He lets out a heavy sigh, rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment.

“... Why do you act so kind suddenly ?„ you breath out, quietly blowing on the hot chocolate before taking a sip. You can hear him gulp. Perhaps he feels remorse now..

“... I didn't meant what I said.„ it's so hard for him to admit he's wrong. It makes you giggle, and you don't hide it, which makes him have a faint blush. He clears his throat, “... Don't laugh like that. It isn't fun.„

“Yet it would've been if I were the one to apologise.„ you sigh, keeping your eyes on that sweet drink he made you. He leans over you, his head almost resting on your shoulder.

“... I promise to make an effort, but please, don't leave yet. I want you to stay. It's better with you.„ it's the first time he shows himself being vulnerable. Yet, everyone has insecurities and weak side, right ? But he doesn't want anyone to see it. You're the only exception.

“If you don't push me to leave again, then... I won't. I love you also for your harsh words, but.. Just, don't make me feel like I'm a burden.„

He presses a gentle kiss on your cheek. You hope he'll change his behavior, but you can't be sure he will. You just allow yourself to doubt. He wraps his arm around your shoulder, rubbing it in a comforting gesture.

“You can't be a burden. You make me have another purpose than just serve for justice. You make me feel alive.„

/ᐠ - ˕ •マ Ⳋ mayuichi's property. do not repost, copy or translate it without permission.

#bungou stray dogs #bungo stray dogs x reader #bsd #bsd x reader #bsd jouno #bsd saigiku #jouno saigiku #saigiku jouno x reader #x reader #bsd jouno saigiku #/ᐠ - ˕ •マ Ⳋ's writing

[yakumtsaki]

-Oh Sunset, I'm so lucky to be in a loving relationship with such a kind, loyal and non-criminally insane person such as yourself!

You're so on the money, buddy, the only thing you missed was 'sexually repelled by cousins'.

-I CAN'T DO THIS, TYLER, YOU'RE SUFFOCATING ME -I'm sorry! Also my name is Ty! -I KNOW BUT IT'S A STUPID NAME AND I'M NOT CALLING YOU THAT

She's right, Ty, and to top it off your last name isn't Union, it's like you're not even trying!

Bruh.. This chain of interactions from the hugging to the insulting to the making out took place in about 1 minute, I can't believe Stacy and Julian of all couples produced Sunset. Why can't you be more like your parents?? They were my cutest, healthiest couple ever!!

-They only thing they cared about having sex 50 a times a day! Aunt June basically raised me!!

Omg I'm looking at the pics of the spare updates I never posted because I suck and YA SHE DID, that explains so much, June is truly the platonic ideal of the hot-batshit combo.

Speaking of batshit-

-And hot!

If you say so, Barth is putting the moves on Marla Biggs, whomst we last saw when June (there she is again) used her to dump Erik-

-Yes, and that one wolf whistle from June turned me gay for all eternity, so don't even bother!

-UGH. So I guess I have no choice..

-..but to sleep with another one of my second cousins! -Oh Barth, I can't believe this is finally happening!!! -I know, Cyan, it took way too long!

We've been here for a week.

-Don't worry, nothing will interrupt this magical moment-WHAT THE FUCK I'M BEING CHEATED ON GOTTA RUN SORRY CYAN CATCH YOU LATER

Ok apparently I was laughing too hard to take a decent pic, but yes, BARTHOLOMEW CAUGHT HIS COUSIN 'CHEATING' ON HIM AS HE WAS HOOKING UP WITH HIS OTHER COUSIN. I HATE MY GAME.

-AND I HATE YOU, SUNSET. YOU BROKE MY HEART -FUCK YOU, BARTHOLOMEW, I'M NOT GONNA BE PART OF YOUR SECOND COUSIN HAREM -I HOPE YOU DROWN IN THE POOL -This was so beautiful, Sunset, I think I'm falling in love with you💙 -GET OUT OF HERE, TYLER -It's Ty! -NO ONE CARES, ASSHOLE -DON'T TALK TO TYLER LIKE THAT -That's not my name! -IT IS NOW, SHUT UP

I gotta hand it to Ty, he's in it to win it, whatever it is one could possibly 'win' when it comes to Sunset.

-Oh Sunset, you're the queen of my heart! -Gross!🥰

-Aw baby, I love spending all our awake time woohooing and doing nothing interesting, huhu!🌞 -It really is the best, thanks to your horrific LTW we don't even have to try! It's so awful people are bound to vote for us just to watch the trainwreck!

Ya I wish I had a counter-argument but you two really have this thing figured out, even I wanna watch me have a mental breakdown trying to raise your 6 asshole kids.

-Our kids are not gonna be assholes!🌞

LOL YA OK MEADOW, whatever helps you sleep at night.

-Meadow and Felina are not the only ones with a perfect relationship! Britannicus and I are also deeply in love!! I'm writing a novel about it as we speak!!!

Jimmy no offense but I literally forgot you live here and I can barely remember who Britannicus is half the time.

-THE PARTY HAS ARRIVED

Oh Britannicus here you are, thank God, you're so indispensable to this legacy!

-All you main-houser bitches look down on me but I have a lot to offer!! I'm grandpa Gunther's heir!!!

Of course you are, now give us the pizza so the people who matter don't die.

-I'll show you! I'll show you all!! >:(

Yes yes, it's been lovely catching up-

-and now it's time to get serious and break Cyan and Barth up! Hit us with your best shot, Marg, we've been on a winning streak lately with those matches, please don't go back to Cyn's leftovers.

-Got you, say no more..

-Here's Kennedy Cox!

MARGARET

-Well it's very hard to find someone Cyneswith hasn't banged!

Ok ya that's very true but Cyan is understandably like 😬 so let's try this again, here's another dollar.

-Alright, you didn't want Cyneswith leftovers..

-How about Sandy the Zombie leftovers??

I hope I don't have to explain to you why that's SO MUCH WORSE

-And I hope I don't have to explain to you that you get what you pay for when you give a dollar for a date!

Fucking touche, Marg, get out of here.

And now for another sequence of events so absolutely ridic I'm just gonna describe it with no dialogue:

So I send Cyan inside to check the college directory thing and see what available bachelors we might booty call up, but there's no one that I like for her so I send her back out to ask Margaret for another dollar date-

-once outside, we find BRITANNICUS SERENADING BARTHOLOMEW, to which Cyan has no reaction as she's probably too shocked-

-poor dumbass loved up Jimmy has no clue and is inside getting high-

-Cyan asks Marg for another date as Barth is performing the Second Cousin Vagina Monologues-

-Margaret gives us Neon Vest Zomb AGAIN and I'm like wtf-

-at which point Britannicus, who just one moment ago was serenading Barth, WOLF WHISTLES AT CYAN-

-CAUSING BARTH TO FEEL CHEATED ON AND DUMP HER

-BETRAYED BY MY OWN BLOOD TWICE IN ONE DAY! OH, THE SHAME!

BARTH SHUT UP. BRITANNICUS WHAT. THE. HELL

-I told you! >:D

Ok you know what, at least with this I feel we have peaked and there is simply no way the situation in this house can get more insane and degenerate-

-Think again!

NO FUCKING WAY. NO. SPICE WHAT ARE YOU DOING YOU'RE DATING ELDERLY GOOD WITCH, I SPECIFICALLY FOUND YOU A GF TO KEEP YOU OUT OF THIS BS

-I know but there's something almost genetically inherited drawing me to Cyan! -Yes, It's almost like our parents were into each other but there was some invisible force separating them!

YA THAT WAS THE LAWS OF NATURE

-Oh please, it was the extended family mod and we no longer have to function under its oppression!

NOTHING IN THIS HOUSE IS REMOTELY FUNCTIONING. You know what, enjoy this while it lasts because I'm breaking every single one of you mofos up, istg I feel like I'm fighting the Hydra, I chop one semi-incestuous head off and two others pop up. WELL I'LL WIN LIKE HERACLES

I'd like to end this disgusting update with this image of the rose Ty left for Sunset next to the flaming shitbag Neon Vest Zombie left for Cyan. What is this world coming to that men no longer appreciate you cheating on them with 2 of your cousins during a date?? Chivalry is dead!

#unions #gen 4 #ts2 #long post

[cannibalistic-suggestions]

There was something about that person that you just couldn't stand.

Mostly, it seems, they had something you wanted so badly but could never have, and that is what filled you with a seething feeling everytime you saw them.

You couldn't bear to see them around anymore, alive, so you took matters into your own hands. You put them out of their misery to alleviate your own.

Jealousy works up an appetite, though. Their parts were strewn among the blood-stained tiles of the floor as you daintily ate them. Crimson fingers pulling off thin sheets of flesh, blood brushing at your lips as you ate the bits of the tender limbs and body parts. It tasted just fine, rather good. At least it was enough to soothe the empty pit in your stomach.

But did it soothe the empty cavity of your heart?

In a way, maybe, by eating them, you could absorb their essence, attain all those things you'd envied them for, all for yourself. Now that their body would merge with yours, now that you were one being, maybe you could finally be better than them.

But maybe it's just wishful thinking.

You wonder if anyone will miss them.

#suggestion #cannibalism #murder #blood #gore #death #dismemberment #jealousy #envy #anger #feelings #woohoo another late night post from yours truly! #this one is kinda weird? but ignore that #trying to also tell some interesting stories w/ these suggestions ;0 #AND AH FRICK IM FORGETTING TAGS AGAIN #appetite #hunger

[sunnydawn444]

New Post has been published on Sunny Dawn Johnston

New Post has been published on http://sunnydawnjohnston.com/blog/are-you-a-night-owl-or-a-lark-how-i-changed-from-one-to-the-other/

Are you a Night Owl or a Lark? - How & Why I Changed from One to the Other

Do you know someone that simply hates mornings… prefers late late evenings? I know, hate is a strong word… one I don’t usually use. In this case though, I know several people that truly do hate mornings. Maybe you too despise those mornings when the alarm goes off, or the dogs get you up early or the kids wake up way before you have to get up. Maybe you hit the snooze 5 times wishing for just 10 more minutes of sleep.

Mornings are tough for a lot of people. I know, I used to be one of them… I was your typical night owl. Staying up until 2 or 3 am was my typical schedule. Now however, I am usually up before my alarm goes off. Today, I woke up at 3:45, meditated and did my appreciation journaling. I got out of bed today at 4:30 and started creating my day intentionally. I wake up excited about the day ahead and all that I can create in it. I also love the quietness of the mornings. The stillness of the early 4-5 am … and then the birds waking up and singing and the sun shining its rays of light on us. I absolutely LOVE mornings!!!

I used to be a NIGHT OWL … SO, I do understand … the struggle is real!!

Did you know that studies show that larks … that’s what they call us early risers … tend to be healthier and happier than night owls. The study says that early risers are healthier physically – likely because they head to bed before the nighttime snacking begins, have greater productivity, worry less/sleep more and are generally happier. Now, I know … to give credit to you night owls … you consider the late late night the same as we early birds do … sacred time. I really don’t think there is a right or a wrong here, unless of course it isn’t working for ya, and you know you need a change 🙂

Click here to see who else rises early … and why (this is really interesting)

So first off, if you are happy being a night owl … you are a happy energetic person creating the life of your dreams … and being a night owl serves you well … WOOHOO!!!!!! I think that’s great and there is no reason to change! Keep it up!!!

For me, switching from a night owl to a lark has helped me in so many ways. I am sharing this for those of you, especially you Janice (that asked me to write about this) and many of my longtime clients, that are always saying they wish they could get up earlier, but they just can’t. This article is for those of you that WANT to be a lark instead of an owl:) It’s for those that feel a bit of depression, isolation, disconnection or just plain can’t get your ass in bed early enough or out of bed early either.

So if you want to make the change … Here is what I did … and why:)

Let’s start with WHY?

Well, there were several reasons.

I woke up in reaction mode. Reacting to the alarm, to being late, anxiousness, to the pressures of moment-to-moment living. The feeling of reaction in my body was very comfortable, in an uncomfortable sort of way. I wanted to create my day in a graceful and loving way; yet everyday, I would wake up to chaotic stressful energy … within myself.

 I was missing time with my husband: He got up at 3am to work construction in the summer, and he went to bed by 8 … at the latest!! I went to bed at 2 or 3am and got up at 7am because my son was up. We were on opposite schedules and didn’t have to be. He couldn’t change his schedule, but I could. And, if I didn’t go to bed with him, I wouldn’t have any “special” time with him.

I realized that I needed to change my nightly routine because I would sit and eat at night … bored and nervous eating. My body showed the physical signs and my mind the mental berating of myself every night and every morning. I recognized this pattern for years before I did anything about it. YEARS!!!!!!!!!

I was going to bed at 3am and having to get up at 7am to get my son off to school. I was tired and bitchy and short-tempered. It wasn’t his fault … it was my responsibility.

My intuition told me that I would feel better, be kinder to myself and others, be intentional and committed and proud of myself … if I would JUST DO IT!

I knew that with a name like Sunny Dawn, I was destined to be an early bird 🙂 :): )

First off – I decided I wanted to get up early – It is a choice! If you want to get up, you CAN!!! You just need to commit to YOU!

Here are some of the things I did, in no particular order, to become an Early Bird. Maybe some of them they will work for you too:)

Create a morning ritual or routine. Many people that start their days early create the time for meditation, exercise, journal/writing, reading and even a healthy breakfast. I do the first four, but threw in breakfast, as that can be an important one for many.

Start slow, don’t make any major changes. Start by waking up just 20 minutes earlier than usual. Get used to that, then do another 20 minutes. Do this gradually until you get to your goal time. Waking up earlier should signal your body to fall asleep earlier as well. If you’re waking up 20 minutes earlier in the morning, you will likely fall asleep 20 minutes earlier in the evening … eventually. This doesn’t always happen right away. Be patient!

Put your alarm clock/phone on the other side of the room. This forces you to get up out of bed to shut it off. Mission accomplished.

Choose to be proactive. I can’t tell you how many mornings I woke up late, rushing around trying to get my son ready for school or feeling rushed because I didn’t have enough time to get something ready. And man the stories I told myself in my head about how no good I was … they were terrible. When you are running late, you are reactive. When you have created plenty of time, you are proactive.

Go to sleep earlier … even if you don’t think you’ll be able to fall asleep … and read an old fashioned book (no screens) while in bed. If you are tired, you’ll fall asleep much sooner than you think. Remember, you are training your body to a new way of living.

Watch the sunrise. There is something about watching a sunrise that reminds us that no matter what happens, on any day … ever … the sun will come up again. Witnessing that breaking of the dawn and the start of a whole new day … reminds you that it’s your life to create as you wish.

Go into the bathroom and pee … or to the kitchen and get yourself a glass of water, make a cup of coffee or tea. Move your body away from the bed. Immediately.

Stay on a sleep schedule – even on the weekends my friends. Let your body get into a cycle. Human beings are cyclic; it will be much easier if you will stick to a sleep cycle. Changing it on the weekends, especially in the beginning, will surely sabotage your early bird goals.

Do something important and use your time wisely. Don’t waste your time on Facebook or social media. Do something productive. Set your intention for the day or write in your gratitude journal. By the time 8am rolls around, you’ll have done more than most people do all day.

Stay Committed – Don’t listen to that head of yours when it tries to talk you out of it. Give it a 21 day chance … at least.

Whether you choose to be an early bird or a night owl … I LOVE you! If whatever you are doing isn’t working for you, just make some baby-step changes. Try out something new. Eventually you will find what works best for you … and remember … you just never know. Just because you’ve always done it one way or been this way … doesn’t mean it is best for you for now! Venture out and try new ways of being and living if what you are doing isn’t working for your highest and best good any longer.

ALL my LOVE, Sunny

PS: Are you an early bird or a night owl? Do you do any of these routines and do they work for you? Will you incorporate a few of these steps into your life? I’d love to hear. Please share in the comments below – SDJ♥

PPS: Sign up to receive my morning affirmations in your inbox everyday and start the day off right:) Simply click here to sign up

#affirmations #appreciation #business #early bird #early riser #energy #healing #intuition #lark #love #morning #night owl #Soul Food with Sunny #spirit #spiritprenuer #spiritual teacher #sunny dawn johnston #support

[dreamscript]

HEY IT ME AGAIN-- LITERALLY SAME I GOT SICK AND LIKE IM STILL COUGHING AND I WANT IT TO STOP. LIKE. RIGHT. NOW. I hope you feel better soon! I can only imagine how bad you're suffering! Make sure to get lots of rest and binge watch Naruto hehehehe// I got sick around Christmas so it's kinda just here// But yeah lol just excuse me late responses (; 7 ; ) and yas girl just embrace you're inner otaku its okay xD (i wanna re-read Naruto actually//) OMG YES PLZ I LOVE YOUR FICS AND-

{CONT} YO HOW DARE YOU WRITE THAT JUNGKOOK FIC IM SHOOKED JKSDFNKJD// LMAO IF THAT AINT ME IN ANY MATH CLASS FUKFFKFKKFKF BUT ITS OKAY YOU CAN DO IT I BELIEVE IN YOU! There was freezing rain here a day or so ago. That was fun . u . (sobs) IF YOU COULD TWEEK MY BLOG OMG ID LOVE THAT. But the theme isn’t originally mine and I’d assume the original owner wouldn’t want the original code changed?

{CONT} IDK I wanted to change my theme for a while now // Something not endless scroll but just boxes for previews? Also I wanted a minimalistic theme based with pastel colours and black and white hehe/ ANYWAY NO NO WORRIES SOMETIMES IM JUST HERE WONDERING IF YOONGI SUED BIGHIT FOR DYING HIS HAIR TOO FREQUENTLY AND NOW HE BALD (LOL) BUT YEAH APPARENTLY THEY ARE SUPPOSE TO HAVE A COMEBACK IN FEBRUARY AND MY WALLET IS UPSET. I ALSO WANT THE NEW ARMY STICK FOR NO GOOD REASON AT ALL LOL

{CONT 3 xD} I’ve only read Naruto Manga so if you wanna screech with me about that lets do it ahaha/ HECK YES I WILL READ THEIR FIC- I WILL NOT STUDY JAHAJSDSDKJF Shout out to Cat and Fae too like i seriously love their fics- your Christmas series had me shooked!! Anyways I have so much work to do and so i will bother you later :) - Sakura !

IM HEALED AND BETTER NOW THANK YOU I HOPE YOU’RE FINE NOW TOO??!?! but i remember my doctor telling me once that if you’re still coughing like a month later you should get it checked out or something D:

and oh. my. god.

naruto.

LISTEN I LITERALLY CRY EVERYTIME IT MAKES ME SO EMO. I WATCHED NARUTO THE ROAD TO NINJA MOVIE LIKE TWO NIGHTS AGO AND I CRIED LIKE A BABY WATCHING HIM INTERACT WITH HIS PARENTS AND ALL LIKE D’:: highkey still hated on sasuke though

but yeah no it’s okay! i have super late responses as of late…. and it’s really only because i’ve been too emotionally spent by the end of the day or tired or busy or just “not feeling it”

idk, but i hope to get back into being more active. i miss this place. i miss interacting with others, as little of it i seem to be doing right now (guh _ _)

LOL I HAVE SO MANY SEX SCENES ALREADY PREWRITTEN OUT FOR HTE JUNGKOOK FIC AND SO NOW THAT I’VE GOT THE HARDEST PARTS DONE, IT’S JUST DOWN TO FILLING IN THE PLOT AND SUCH. aaaand that’s kinda hard too, but i think i’ll manage. hopefully.

(help)

dude it was rainy and windy and cold today and i had to go outside and the entire time i was walking/running/dying to class i was thinking a) why b) this was a Mistake

ah well in regards to your theme, usually the theme makers are okay with minor changes (sometimes major ones too) as long as you keep the credit and the changes are for personal use (as opposed to commercial use/redistribution, etc). just to be sure, you can just check their rules. they usually have that whole page/pop up or will simply include it in their theme code.

hmm what do you mean by boxes for previews? i don’t think i’ve ever seen such as thing. it sounds interesting, though. are they previews for like posts or…?

YEAH OMG I’M REALLY EXCITED BECAUSE FEBRUARY IS BOTH MINE AND ALSO @taesthetes​‘ BIRTHDAY MONTH SO ITS LIKE A BIRTHDAY PRESENT WOOHOO

thank you for loving our collaboration! i’m still amazed on how quickly we got things put together and everything… honestly… cat and @zephyoongist​ are so talented i don’t know what i’m doing here :’) (or where i would be without them)

and now finally…

(for the maaaain event)…

okaY OKAY I WILL SCREECH WITH YOU ABOUT NARUTO. RIGHT HERE. RIGHT NOW. just under the cut because spoilers:

I’M SUCH AN EMOTIONAL WRECK OVER NARUTO THE ONLY BEST WAY I CAN TRULY EXPRESS MY THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS AT THE MOMENT IS JUST THROUGH BULLET POINTS SO:

i love kakashi

i also love gaara. i can’t choose between the two, but lately i’ve been more biased towards kakashi. i blame it on my sister because she’s always had a thing for him

(i still love you gaara its okay my sand child)

kakashi’s backstory had me in tears… like… with obito died and he’s telling kakashi he’ll give him his sharingan (the sharingan that he’d always been talking about that would get him to hokage) to be his eye to see the future…

i just..

fucking broke down man like dude… stop… you’re killing me here… and then how kakashi really changes afterwards

(okay but listen child kakashi was savage as fuck though and it was hilarious)

(also i know it’s a filler but that one episode in which it showed guy and kakashi comparing dick sizes as kids….,,..,.

….,,..i wasn’t expecting that at all but i don’t mind the info heheheheh heh /dies)

OKAY BUT THEN RIN DIES WHY

literally if she hadn’t died a lot of the issues in naruto wouldn’t have occurred but they fucking did

no i’m not blaming her she died for a noble reason okay it just makes me really sad i’m sorry

AND FINALLY MINATO DIES TOO AND KAKASHI IS THE LAST OF HIS TEAM IM EMO

on a side note minato and kushina were cute as fuck

ANYWAYS GAARA OH MY OH MY GOD MY POOR BABY as a kid he was so cute and just wanted some friends and was out helping all those villagers and such but then his damned dad just had to go and screw those things up like STOP IT HE;S MY CHILD

even though i love those two, my favorites are actually the akatsuki

like. they hate each other but istg they secretly love each other like have you seen kakuzu and hidan’s interactions??? they tease and insult and threaten (and have killed) each other but kakuzu is actually patient with hidan’s rituals and such, and hidan will still accompany kakuzu to the collection centers

also, when he sees asuma’s guardian shinobi thing the first thing that comes to mind is kakuzu and how he’d want him for the money and he’s like u gh but like !!!

and AND when hidan at first thinks he’s accidentally killed kakuzu in his fight with shikamaru & co., he has that look of panic ooooh my god I JUST GASHUDFJSDIJASD

also hidan is just hilarious. like when they go to recruit him he’s like “who are you guys, all wearing the same clothes?? are you guys an orchestra or band or something?”

/points at kakuzu/ bet you play the bass

/points at konan/ bet the girl does vocals and keyboards

/points at itachi/ …or do you do vocals…?

and then the first thing hidan and kakuzu do to each other is kill each other

the look of utter disbelief on both of their faces

“what the–why aren’t you dead?”

“bitch that hurt–wait. why aren’t you dead?”

but anyways we can’t forget about itachi and kisame either, now can we?? like. they are actually like the only partner group that openly got along with each other, and they were sad oh my god they were sad upon realizing each other’s death’s

and idk just the way kisame says “itachi-san” does something to me

 i t a c h i

oh boy i have so much to say about this kid

but before i move on i must! address! the others!!

okay so like deidara is actually op as fuck and sometimes idk i feel like he doesnt get enough credit?? idk.

BUT LIKE LISTEN OKAY HE GOES THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS TO SEAL THE ICHIBI AKA SHUKAKU AKA GAARA’S TAILED BEAST and then immediately after decides to take on naruto (and kakashi)

AND HE ONLY HAD ONE ARM AT THE TIME HAVING JUST LOST ONE IN HIS FIGHT WITH GAARA LIKE WHAT IS THIS STAMINA AND HOW DOES HE NOT BLEED OUT THIS KID IS FUCKING AMAZING WHAT THE HELL

and he’s 19 like lol what bye

but anyways, after his “fight” he loses his other arm because kakashi and now he’s armless BUT THIS KID STILL HOLDS HIS OWN though completely on the defense AGAINST TEAM GAI LIKE WHAT THE FUCK HE’S AMAZING and then he manages to create a bomb without using any sort of handseals and fools them all into thinking he’s dead

like

i love this boy give him a metal why did he have to die so early why (yet another reason why i dislike sasuke lmfao)

black zetsu scares the fuck out of me (esp when i learned of his true past and intentions) but white zetsu!! he’s such a sweetie holy shit

I JUST REALLY LIKED THAT TIME WHEN HE BURSTS INTO THE 5 KAGE SUMMIT AND HE’S LIKE “HALLLLOOO!!!!!!” WITH THE ARMS AND EVERYTHING DAW OMG

and also unlike so many others he actually likes everyone and when he saves deidara he’s like “you’re a fun guy to be around” and then and then later when he’s talking to tobi he reveals that he’s sad that so many of the akatsuki members died like D::

let’s not forget when black zetsu called him weak (they had split in two at the time) and white zetsu just kind of D: and wilts a little like ooHH NO oo baby it’s okay it’s okay

ahem

konan is so strong… holy crap… like… her ultimate attack? with the bajillion paper explosive tags disguised as a lake?? that go off for 10 minutes? holy fuck.

yahiko’s pretty damn hot if you ask me (yes i know he’s a cadaver in the main time period but listen)

idk my favorite arc of the entire thing was pain’s invasion of konoha… like from the moment jiraiya’s message arrived to when everyone got revived…. and then kakashi almost became hokage…

it was fantastic

i think it’s mainly because it was a mystery, race against time, battle thing all in one and it was so neat i guess

also you could see everyone in the village working together, fighting their hardest, showing their potentials for like, the first time ever

um um um okay sasori mentally scarred me as a child, and now whenever i hear the rattling puppet noises i immediately think of these scary nightmares i had after watching his fight with sakura… yeah, puppets scare me a lot now

orochimaru is a creep ‘nuff said moving on

tobi! i love this alternate ego of obito/”madara” like idk he’s so jumpy and honestly it’s fucking hilarious watching him because he’s so secretly op certain people underestimate him at first (and then others overestimate him because of his association with akatsuki)

like. when he was warding off konoha from itachi vs sasuke’s fight (which i am still emo about) he was just like playing whack-a-mole with them and then he’s like lemme use this ability! frill-necked lizard!

and they all kinda stand and stare at him intensely execting something legit

but in reality that’s it. the extent of htat ability is just him hanging upside down with the cloack falling behind him to look like a frill-necked lizard

and it’s fucking hilarious

i also thought it was fucking adorable when he and deidara first confront sasuke

and the little bitch goes ahead and slices through him

literally through him

and HE MAKES THE MOST ADORABLE NOISE BEFORE FALLING FLAT ON HIS FACE GAH

but sasuke thinks that he actually killed him and sasuke’s all like “one down”

and deidara just kinda

ugh this kid

and tobi gets up and brushes himself off like wow that was rly fast!!! and sasuke just >:/

URM OKAY ENOUGH ABOUT THE AKATSUKI MEMBERS

sorry i thought i should make this clear but i lowkey highkey have this vendetta thing against sasuke like this little shit

i mean ofc i know the reason for his disillusionment really isn’t all his fault like @ itachi really?

like really when he goes back to konoha and sasuke tries to kill him… he goes and easily breaks his wrist

and he kinda just considers him for a moment like

…hm

how about i….. make his situation even worse…?

and then traps him in a genjutsu that forces him to relive their parents death for 24 hours like why the fuck this is literally all your fault

and also on a side note, fuck danzo. why the fuck did the 3rd not kill him when he was supposed to. why. all the wrong people lived for far too long.

anyways

but yeah no idk i just really don’t like sasuke after he defected and became a Vengeful Teen

AND ITACHI’S STORY MAKES ME CRY EVERY TIME HOLY SHIT IT MAKES ME SO SAD WHY DID THIS BOY HAVE TO SUFFER SO MUCH and then mess up his little brother’s psyche to the point in which he starts killing like everyone wtf

AHEM

another favorite moment arc of mine is the very beginning

like the first 15ish episodes

IRUKA SENSEI

he’s such a blessing. he’s literally one of those crucially important side characters and i appreciate him and i love him and it would’ve been nice to see more of him, but hey, that’s okay too.

(his part in the naruto road to ninja movie had me in tears. like at the end. fucking tears.)

like naruto and kakashi may be super close and stuff, but when he needs someone as a guardian, naruto turns to iruka and idk i feel that says a lot about their relationship and it makes me cry all the fucking time

um anyways yes i also love zabuza

he’s so strong and empowered

AND THAT WHOLE ARC MADE ME CRY A LOT TOO AND THE FACT THAT IT BECOMES SUCH AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE STORY MAKES ME SO FUCKING HAPPY

i have a lot more the say probably but it’s getting late and i need to take a shower and sleep and get up early in the morning to make food so i’ll just leave it at that

(i wrote a lot i know i’m sorry)

(hope i didn’t blow you away with any spoilers D:)

#my naruto gushing got a bit out of hand but i regret nothing #also when i say i cry #I ACTUALLY CRY #LIKE FULL ON CRYING #I NOW HAVE A BOX OF TISSUES ON MY DESK BECAUSE OF THIS #replies #love people #polarbearchan

[brookeap3]

Post-its and Paperclips New Years Eve

Only a day late! Woohoo! Happy New Year to all of my fellow Outlaw Queen shippers! I hope this year is a great one for all of you and that you enjoy this little continuation of this fic done for @onceuponanadvent! Cover by @ninzied​

The invitation comes by way of a post-it stuck to her desk monitor when she walks into her office Thursday morning. New Years Eve? Be my date? It has a dopey grin crossing Regina’s face as the corners of her mouth tip up. Robin. They've been communicating through the little square sticky notes for the last week, one on her desk every morning, slipped into one of her files during an office meeting, there’d even been one stuck to a to-go cup from her favorite coffee shop mid-afternoon yesterday.

Things like; You look gorgeous in that blouse today and How can I focus on Gold with you sitting across from me? to You taste even better than the coffee. Each one leaves her giddy, and she scribbles plenty back to him. Are you trying to charm me, Locksley? and That tie’s working for you today, even It’s a shame there’s no mistletoe around...

It’s entirely inappropriate, to flirt this way during working hours, and a few of their coworkers have begun to whisper about it, about them, but it’s been so long since Regina has felt anything like this bubbling excitement she can’t bring herself to truly care.

“Something catch your eye?”

Robin’s voice sounds from the doorway and Regina’s head shoots up, grin widening when she sees him leaning against the jamb, hands tucked behind his back, watching her read his note, and she chuckles at him. “Interesting inter office memo.” She retorts playfully.

“Oh really?” Robin returns, taking a few steps further into her office until he’s standing on the other side of her desk. “I don’t believe I got that one. Anything I should know?”

There’s a twinkle in his eye, and Regina does her best to stifle a groan when he bites his lower lip in that way that drives her crazy.

It comes so naturally. The flirting. She’s surprised they’d never realized their attraction to one another before now. But then again, they’d been too busy insulting and avoiding one another to really give it much thought. Now though, it’s hard for them to do anything but, to keep up appearances for the sake of professionalism when all either of them want to do is kiss each other until they’re breathless. It’s rather distracting actually.

“An exclusive meeting. One I’m in the midsts of considering if I’ll accept or not.” Comes her joking reply as she wiggles her eyebrows at him.

Robin hums consideringly, “Perhaps this will sway you one direction or the other.” He shifts his arms from behind his back, flourishing a piece of paper that he presents to her and Regina takes it with an amused smile on her face. It’s one of Roland’s drawings, of her and Robin and himself and the big ball in Time’s Square. A formal invitation to join them for New Years, the request written in big letters over the top of the page and signed with his name at the bottom. Regina’s heart inflates as she studies the colorful lines. She’s completely fallen for this man’s child in ways she never could have imagined.

Spending Christmas with him and Robin, with their closest friends, had been one of the best experiences she’s had in years. All of them had made her feel so welcomed and accepted. They’d gone to Robin’s place and she’d watched Roland excitedly tear through his presents from Santa from her place beside Robin on the couch, sipping coffee and snuggling beside him. She and Roland had played with his new set of lincoln logs while Robin had cooked them breakfast, building their own little village before indulging themselves with eggs and french toast.

She’d gone home for a few short hours, only long enough to shower and dress in fresh clothing, taking a bit more thought and care for her appearance with the prospect of Robin’s appreciative glances for the rest of the evening. By the time she’d returned the house had been crawling with men laughing and joking, a few of their girlfriends gathered in groups of twos and threes here and there. Robin had introduced to her John and Will, his closest friends since college, and Regina had been pleasantly surprised that she’d hit it off so well with them, that they’d seemed to accept her without question. It had been nice to feel a part of such a large group. She’d never really had that growing up or in her adult life.

And the kisses Robin had snuck under the mistletoe throughout the night had been quite pleasant as well. Regina’s discovered that she’s a bit addicted to them, and the way he wraps an arm around her waist to pull her close, peppering light kisses along her brow, how he strokes his fingers through her hair and whispers how beautiful she is into her ear.

It had been a perfect day.

Lifting her gaze from the colorful drawing to meet Robin’s again, Regina grins. “Well who can resist an invitation like that?” She asks, though her eyes glance back to the post-it that she’s left lying on the desk, at Robin’s messy scrawl asking her to be his date and Regina has to admit that she’d been charmed by the cute note even before the drawing.

She smiles up at him, glancing quickly out into the hallway, can hear people milling about, catching up on how they’d spent their last evening or asking questions regarding their current projects. Still, she rounds her desk to take a few steps closer to him, not enough to be touching, but enough that there’s a miniscule amount of space between their bodies, teasing him as she looks up at him from beneath her lashes. “I would love to be your date for New Year’s, Robin.”

He grins, that gleeful look lighting up his entire face at her acceptance, and Regina’s heart trips over in her chest knowing she’d been the one to put that expression on his features. “Wonderful.” He replies, eyes darting down to her lips with clear intention.

They are at work, however, and the last thing they need is for someone to wonder by her open door and see them lip locked, no matter how much Regina may want to kiss him. So he turns away from her for a minute, quickly striding over and closing the door to give them a margin of privacy before he’s back in front of her, drawing her into his embrace.

Then his mouth is meeting hers in a deep kiss, his palm pressed against the small of her back to pull her against his body as he cups her cheek with his other hand. Their lips opening and parting as Regina lets Robin sweep his tongue into her mouth, doing the same to him. She can taste the mint from his toothpaste, mixed with the dark roast he enjoys, and it’s delicious, has her letting out a quiet groan and wrapping her arms around him.

When they pull apart, Robin grins down at her, clearly pleased. They stay that way, Robin’s arms locked around her, fingers laced at the bottom of her spine, Regina’s looped around his neck as she leans back against the edge of her desk.

“So, what are your plans exactly?” She asks out of curiosity. Most people typically go out to celebrate the new year, but he has Roland to think about, and Regina has to admit she wouldn’t mind spending the night with the adorable dimpled child as well as his father.  

“We’re having a party at our house, actually. Same group of people you met on Christmas.”

Regina laughs and questions, “Again? Aren’t you just the social butterfly. Hosting twice within a week.” She’s only teasing him, but the faint blush that rises to Robin’s cheeks pleases her greatly.

“Yes, well, it’s easier with Roland. And we have the space for it.”

Scratching her nails along the back of his neck, just at the bottom of his hairline she tells him, “It’s nice.”

“Roland’s quite excited to see you again as well.” Robin grins at her, “You’re all he’s talked about since Christmas and how much fun he had with you. He was over the moon when I mentioned inviting you to the party. Though he never makes it past eleven o’clock, despite his valiant attempts to watch the ball drop with the rest of us.”  

That’s adorable, she thinks, eager to have the opportunity to share it with them this year. “I look forward to spending it with you both. Can’t think of a better way to ring in the new year, actually.” There’s a slight pink tinge to her cheeks as she says it. They’ve only just begun exploring whatever it is that’s between them, and however much she may want them to be a part of this next year of her life, everything’s happened rather fast.

Robin reads her easily and is quick to cup her cheek again, rubbing his thumb along her lower lip affectionately. This romantic interest between them may have hit them both over the head, but after the new side to her he’s witnessed and watching her with his son there is no doubt in his mind that he wants something serious with her. “Neither can we.” He assures, grinning before bending his head to buss his lips against hers one last time. “I better get back to my office though, people will start to talk if we stay in here with the door closed for much longer. Leroy’s imagination is probably running wild with what we could be getting up to.”

He says it teasingly, lifting a single brow, and Regina chortles. “We wouldn’t want that now.” Extricating herself from Robin’s embrace she gently pushes against his chest, tone stern as she orders, “Out with you.” Robin’s laughter echoes throughout her office even as he opens the door again and strides out into the hall, Regina fighting the grin that wants to spread over her face.

Sitting down behind her desk, she powers up her computer, then spots the post-it still lying on the surface beside her purse and smiles, picking it up and slipping it into the upper left-hand drawer of her desk, on top of the pile of all of the other sticky notes he’s left her.

—————

Regina’s heels click on the cement as she strides up the walkway, the light dusting of snow covering it and the mounds shoveled into piles along the edge make her smile. The fluffy white substance now reminds her of one of the best nights she’s ever had. Robin’s home is still lit up for Christmas, the bright, oversized multi-colored lights strung along the gutters and around the windows and garage, giving it a gingerbread house feel. There’s a plastic Santa and Snowman in the yard that she just knows Roland picked out and it makes Regina chuckle as she steps onto the porch.

Sounds of a party already in full swing can be heard coming from the other side of the door and surprisingly enough, she feels a sliver of anticipation building up within her rather than dread at being faced with a crowd. She’s comfortable with these people, Robin’s friends. She’s only met them once, but it was enough to be eager to get to know them better.

Taking a deep breath and smoothing out an invisible wrinkle or two on the dark material of her dress, her red pea coat left unbuttoned as she’s only going from car to front door, she lifts a hand and raps her knuckles against the wood. It’s no more than a minute later than the door is swinging open and those noises that had been muffled previously are magnified tenfold, Robin’s eager face smiling at her in greeting. “Regina! Come in, come in!” He gestures for her to enter and she steps through the threshold as he shuts the door behind her. “We’ve been waiting for you.”

“Holiday traffic.” She replies by way of an explanation and holds out the bottle of champagne in her hand, offering it to him, “Happy New Year.”

Robin chuckles, accepting the gift. “Thank you. This will be much appreciated. I’m afraid that Will’s already had a bit of a head start on the evening. Ana’s threatened to cut him off and we’ve hours yet to midnight.”

“It’s barely seven o’clock.” She comments, wrinkling her nose.

“Exactly,” Robin laughs, shaking his head. “Here, let me take your coat.” Tucking the champagne bottle into the crook of his arm, he helps her slip off the red material, pulling it down her arms as Regina turns her back to him before spinning back around to face him. Robin’s expression quickly shifts from admiration into one of pure desire as his jaw slackens slightly and his eyes rake up and down her body. “Regina,” he breathes in that husky tone that has a lovely liquid warmth pooling in her belly. “You look absolutely stunning.”

His gaze is enough to have heat spreading through her as she smiles back at him, pinching her bottom lip between her teeth slightly. “Thank you.” She replies, pleased that her outfit is a hit. Her dress hugs every one of her curves, the black body of it flattering with royal blue sleeves that cap off just above her elbows. The collar comes together at her throat, but the bodice is open, forming a deep v that reveals just enough cleavage to warrant Robin’s hungry look.

Standing in his foyer, Regina absorbs Robin’s own appearance. He’s dressed in neat slacks and a light blue button down shirt that brings out his eyes, a deeper navy blazer topping off the ensemble. He looks sexy and hot and Regina wonders briefly how long they will be able to hold out on this crippling attraction between them. “You don’t look so bad yourself.” She flirts.

“Why thank you, milady.” Regina laughs at the endearment, old fashioned as it may be it never fails to charm her coming from his lips. Robin’s gaze flickers upward for a moment before landing back on hers and a mischievous smirk slowly unfolds over his face. A quick glance above her head reveals the mistletoe from Christmas Day is still hanging above the doorway.

Returning her gaze to Robin’s, Regina grins at him, tilting her head slightly to the side in silent permission and then he’s stepping toward her, lowering his mouth to hers. His lips are warm and tempting, rubbing over her own, creating a heat that spreads throughout her, ridding her of the last vestiges of a chill from outside. Releasing her mouth after a few moments, Robin smirks adoringly at her.

“You planned that.” Regina comments, mocking offense when she’s anything but, her lips still tingling from the touch of his own.

“Absolutely.” Robin confirms, and then they’re both laughing softly until an excited shout sounds from a little ways off.

“R’ginaaaaaa!” She hears the squeal come from behind her and quickly turns from Robin to see Roland barreling his way down the hall excitedly just in time for him to wrap his arms around her legs and grin up at her. “You’re here!”

Her heart knocks over in her chest at Roland’s beaming face. She doesn’t know what it is about him that makes him so special, so different from every other child she’s ever met, but a part of her feels a deep pull toward him, as strong as the one she feels toward his father. “Hello, sweetheart.” Regina greets, fluffing her fingers through his mane of dark curls. Kneeling down to his level, she taps a finger on the tip of his nose, grinning at his laugh and tells him, “Happy New Year.”

“Happy New Year!” He echos, practically vibrating, and Regina wonders how much sugar Robin’s let him consume tonight already. “We’re having a party!” Roland informs her as if she’s unaware of that fact and Regina gasps her excitement, questioning, Really? “Yes! And we have hats and noisemakers and Daddy and I decorated with streamers. Come see!”

He’s gripping her hand in his and dragging her off in the direction of the living room before Regina can get a word in edgewise and Robin watches them go with affection, chuckling when she turns to look back over her shoulder at him. It warms his heart to see how well Roland has taken to her. His son is an excellent judge of character and it would seem that he’s discovered someone to fulfill the role of his new favorite person. Robin can’t say that he blames him really. Not when Regina has rapidly become the same for him.

Turning toward the den to deposit her coat with the rest of the party guests outerwear Robin rests it over the couch in there and then makes his way toward the kitchen. He stores her gift in the fridge then turns to poor her a glass of champagne and another for himself while he’s at it. Letting his gaze drift back and forth from his task at hand and over the counter top to where Regina is sitting on the couch while Roland excitedly holds out different hat options for her to pick from. The standard cone and a headband with silver letters outlining New Years Eve. She chooses the latter and let’s Roland slip it over her dark locks.

“Lady of the hour is here I see.”

Robin shifts his gaze from the two of them to grin at John. “Indeed she is.” He laughs, not even bothering to pretend he doesn’t know what his friend is talking about. Despite the crowd of friends wandering about his house to occupy his attention, Robin’s been glancing toward the door repeatedly and Roland has been asking when Regina would arrive every ten minutes. After Christmas his friends are not unaware of the affection he and his son hold for the woman. John shakes his head at him and turns around to start a conversation with Tuck while Robin picks up their glasses and ventures into the living room.

They’ve moved on to other party favors by the time Robin joins them. Regina placing a set of oversized glasses on the bridge of Roland’s nose that outline 2017 and laughing when they swallow up the boy’s face before sliding right back down. The pair of them laughing at how silly he looks.

Her gaze shifts from Roland to him as he rounds the couch and holds out a glass to her. “Champagne, milady.” Robin offers her the flute before taking the open space beside her.

“Thank you.” Regina replies, sipping the bubbly liquid and letting the flavor explode over her tongue. Robin’s arm lifts to rest behind her on the couch, his fingertips just brushing her shoulder and Regina leans back into him, letting his warmth envelope her while Roland turns back to the coffee table for more festive favors. He holds out a string of beads and Regina gamely bends her neck for him to slip them over her head.

“What do we have here?” Robin asks and Regina lifts her glass for another sip and struggles to keep her lips from twitching while she watches Roland turn his enthusiasm on his father.

“Hats and funny glasses and noisy things!” He exclaims, reaching for a cone shaped New Years hat and holding it out to Robin. “Here, you need one too, Daddy!” Obligingly, Robin takes the paper hat from Roland, placing it on the top of his head and snapping the elastic underneath his chin before winking at Regina and asking Roland how it looks. “Perfect!” The boy declares and then grabs one of the noisemakers, blowing into it and letting out a ringing sound in celebration, all three of them laughing together.

Roland hands out two to each of them and they oblige him by blowing into their own. If it weren’t for the gleeful look on his face every time they do it the things would surely become bothersome, but his tiny little dimples dent his cheeks and neither feel any annoyance at all.

Suddenly, the toddler is turning back to them, studying Robin eagerly. “How long till the ball drops, Daddy?” Roland asks, rocking up and down in anticipation and deflating just a tad when Robin informs him they have quite a while yet.

“But we’ll have plenty of fun before then.” Regina tells him, anxious to return that dimpled smile to his face, and blowing one of the noisemakers between her lips until it uncurls to tickle Roland square in the middle of his chest, his laughter precious. “What’s been your favorite thing about this year, Roland?” She asks as a distraction.

He thinks about it for a minute, serious expression forming on his features as he contemplates the question before those chocolate colored eyes light up and he proclaims, “Meeting you, R’gina!”

It wasn’t at all the answer she had been expecting to come out of him and for a few seconds it takes Regina aback. Emotion wells up within her, a depth of affection for this child that she probably has no right to be feeling so soon. But if she’s honest with herself she’s totally in love with this little boy already and suddenly feels tears prickling at her eyes. Fighting them back, she leans forward to rest her elbows on her knees, grasping Roland’s hands in her own and telling him truthfully, “You’ve been my favorite part of this year too, Roland.”

Robin watches his son’s arms flop around Regina’s neck in a hug and the sight of the two of them is such a wonderful image he thinks his heart might just burst from his chest. When his eyes meet Regina’s over Roland’s shoulder all he can think is how grateful he is for that snow storm last week that had opened up this door for him and his son, for all of them really. It seems it was fate that they’d been brought together the way they had. Two years of working together and a single night had completely altered everything for them.

They watch Roland dash off in the direction of where Tuck and Alan are chatting by the fireplace, casually sipping their beer until the boy snags their attention. Robin turns his focus back to Regina, smiling at her and curling his arm around her shoulders more firmly when she leans back against the couch again. His thumb caresses her shoulder and those dark and fascinating brown irises turn to twinkle at him. “I’m glad you’re here.” Robin tells her.

“Oh really?” Regina hums, swallowing the last bit of her first glass of champagne which is nearly gone now and using it as an opportunity to collect herself. She’s just relaxed and comfortable enough to be feeling bold, extra flirty with him, the weight of her moment with Roland melting away as the alcohol swishes around in her belly. Leaning in closer, their faces only a few inches apart, she asks, “And why is that? For my charming personality or stunning appearance? Or because of Roland’s affections? Oh, I know! It’s the hat isn’t it?” Regina jokes, pointing to the ridiculous band on her head, barely containing her grin.

Robin’s own amusement climbing at this flirtatious, on-her-way-toward-tipsy side of her, he leans in toward her mouth, stopping just shy of pressing his own into it and answers, “All of the above.” Regina’s laughter is music to his ears and then she’s the one connecting their mouths in a relatively chaste, but drawn out kiss that leaves them both wanting more, and Robin wishes they could have a private moment together where he could kiss her properly.

“I’m glad I’m here too.” Regina replies finally when they separate. “You’ve been one of the best parts of my year also.”

“As have you, milady.” They grin at each other like idiots for another minute before Robin plucks her glass from her slender fingers and rocks himself up to his feet. “Looks like you need a refill. I’ll be right back.” Regina nods and settles back into the couch, grinning stupidly at him as she watches him walk away. Tonight is turning out to be even better than she was expecting.

—————

As the hours tick by, inching closer and closer to midnight, Regina feels her entire being relaxing. Each glass of champagne settles pleasurably into her system, every laugh with Roland has her heart swelling, and each time she catches Robin looking at her something in his eyes steals the breath from her lungs. Several occasions already she’s noticed him subtly checking her out and she’s grateful she chose this dress for the evening. Is enjoying teasing him as much as she’s doing the same to herself, and with each passing minute Regina looks forward to sharing a kiss with him at midnight.

She’s wandered into the kitchen in search of the champagne bottle to top off her glass, becoming distracted by the sight of Robin and Roland playing together across the room.

“You know, he's quite smitten with you. This whole week it's been Regina this and Regina that. He's a friendly boy, but I've never seen him take to anyone the way he has you.” John comments, taking a sip of his beer and studying her.

Regina watches them, chuckling when Robin drills a finger into his tummy and Roland lets out a high pitched shriek of laughter. She can feel the grin splitting her face, can't help it before John’s next words register. “The same could be said for his father.”

Her eyes whip back to his instantly to find him observing her watching them, a blush rising to her cheeks. Flickering her gaze back to the pair then back to John, Regina confesses softly, “They aren't the only ones.”

Something in her answer must satisfy whatever hidden question had been behind his words, for he studies her another moment and then nods approvingly. “Good. It's been a long time since I’ve seen him smile at anyone the way he does at you.” And she knows this time he’s referring to Robin alone.

It makes her wonder… about Roland’s mother, Robin’s wife. She knows that she’d passed away when Roland had been a baby, but not much beyond that. They haven’t quite gotten into the serious parts of their past in this budding romance of theirs, despite their conversation about her family on Christmas Eve. Tonight’s not the night for that discussion though, and if there’s anything that Regina is surprisingly positive of it’s that they’ll have an opportunity for it in the future. She doesn’t see either of them going anywhere in her life. Crazy as that may be.

John’s voice breaks through her thoughts, bringing Regina back to the present. “Can I get you another drink?”

She nods, “That would be wonderful. Thank you.”

A few minutes later, glass in hand, she makes her way over to Robin and Roland. The boy’s bouncing on the balls of his feet in time with the song playing through the sound system. “What are you two up to without me?” She teases.

“Dancing!” Roland informs her, executing a rather wobbly turn that makes both she and Robin laugh.

“Well then,” Regina sets her glass on the coffee table and holds out a hand to Roland, “May I have this dance?”

He nods his head eagerly and clasps his hand in hers, Regina’s fingers curling around his tiny hands as they begin stepping side to side, rocking their arms back and forth. When the tempo picks up a bit, Regina swoops Roland up onto her hip and wiggles them around, steadying him with a hand on his back and dipping him upside down to a degree to make him squeal.

By the time the song ends and turns into a new one, they are both breathless, giggling at each other until Roland turns his gaze to his father. “Daddy, you dance with R’gina now.”

Happy to oblige, Robin bites his lower lip between his teeth, “Of course, my boy.” and waits for Regina to set him back on his feet before he’s taking her hand in his and tugging her in close to his body before spinning her out and back in. Robin turns them around in a few quick steps and Regina is laughing merrily while Roland claps his hands with the beat and wiggles around himself.

Robin takes both her hands in his and leads her in a few more moves before twirling her beneath his arm and Regina grins up at him when the song ends, taking a moment to catch her breath, “You’re quite the dancer.”

“One of my many talents.” Robin quips with a smirk and then shifts his attention to Roland when he asks if it’s time for cookies yet. Agreeing, the pair of them head toward the kitchen and Regina grabs her glass from the table, letting the cool liquid sate her sudden thirst and plopping down on the couch again.

Not long after, she excuses herself from a conversation with Ana, Will’s girlfriend, for a trip to the bathroom. She’s fought off breaking the dreaded seal as long as she can manage for the night. When she exits the powder room situated near the entrance way of Robin’s home there’s a post-it stuck to the wall opposite her and Regina smirks at the sight of it.

Meet me in the den.

Grabbing the little yellow square, she slinks quietly down the hall and twists the knob, slipping into the room just off the front of the house and shutting the door behind her. Robin’s leaning back against the dark, mahogany desk, and smiles when she enters the room.

“You got my note I see.”

Regina waves the post-it held between her index and middle finger and nods. “Yes. Did you need something?” She questions, one corner of her mouth curving upward as Robin strides toward her, closing the distance between them. He stops a step in front of her, his lovely pine scent filling her nostrils.

“As a matter of fact, yes. This.”

And then he’s taking her mouth with his in a quick and fiery kiss, as if he hasn’t been stealing kisses here and there for the entire night, like it’s been days rather than less than an hour since the last time he’s tasted her. Regina moans into the kiss, arching her back and pressing herself against him, one arm hooking around his neck. His tongue sweeps against hers, toying with it, chasing it with his own as the flavor of her explodes in his mouth.  

Robin’s teeth nip at her lip, biting hard enough to have Regina groaning before his tongue moves back in to sooth the slight ache. The action causes little tingles to spread throughout her body. “Mmmmm…” She hums against his mouth, Robin’s hands stroking up and down her sides as their kisses slow a degree.

They make out for a few more moments, noses sliding over cheeks as their heads tilt back and forth, eager for more of each other, more of this heady feeling their kisses produce.

When they eventually part, Regina lets her eyelids flutter open, dreamy expression on her face as she asks Robin, “What was that for?”

He twirls a lock of her hair between his fingers and smiles stupidly, “I just wanted a few minutes alone with you. It’s the first chance I’ve had to kiss you properly all evening.” Regina's smile spreads over her whole face and Robin has a desperate desire to see that expression on her as often as he can manage. “Are you enjoying yourself?”

“Immensely.” Regina assures him because tonight has been wonderful. The best ending to a year she's had in more than she can remember and it's largely due to this man and his son. She's rather enjoying this turn of the holiday season when she typically spends them alone.

“Good.” Robin's arms lock around her waist, pressing her tightly against him, Regina's hands trapped between their bodies, palms resting on his chest. “No regrets about accepting my invitation then?”

She can tell what he's playing at and smirks, willing to go along with the game. Scrunching up her nose, tiny wrinkle forming between her brows, Regina pretends to mull the question over. In a flirty, teasing tone she replies, “Hmmmm, not yet. The night is young though.”

The full bellied laugh Robin lets out jiggles both of their bodies as he shakes his head. “I'll have to ensure we keep you happy then.” Punctuating his vow by kissing her again, not quite as desperate this time but no less passionate.

All of a sudden the door to the den is crashing open and Roland's excited voice interrupts them. “Daddy, John's doing funny animal noises. Come see!” Chortling, Robin promises Roland he'll be there in a moment and leans in for a quick peck to Regina's lips before letting her go and following his son out of the room toward the direction of delighted laughter.

—————

Despite his valiant efforts to maintain the neverending energy he seems to posses, Roland does not make it to seeing the ball drop this year. Instead, he conks out on the couch with Regina at half past eleven, his head resting in her lap as she brushes her fingers through his hair over and over again.

Honestly, Regina wouldn't mind ringing in the new year just like this, doesn't feel a need to move one bit. But the closer the clock gets to twelve o'clock the louder everyone seems to be getting, the healthy supply of drinks long since kicking in and filters dissipating. Roland would probably be more comfortable in his own bed as well.

So when Robin stands from his perch on the arm of the sofa to take him, Regina doesn't protest as he scoops him up into his arms. The tired toddler doesn't make a peep. “I'm just gonna take him up to bed.” Her reluctance to release him must show on her face though because he's quickly following up his statement with, “Would you like to help?” Regina nods and follows them up the steps to Roland's bedroom.

The two of them spend the next ten minutes tucking him into bed. Untying the laces of his sneakers and setting them aside while Robin retrieves a set of pajamas with fox faces all over them. Regina helps him maneuver Roland out of his sweater and khaki pants into soft cotton. Robin turns on the night light luminary on the table beside the bed, in case Roland should wake up during the night.

Regina can't resist the urge to place a light kiss to Roland's forehead, smoothing her hand over his hair before she and Robin tiptoe silently out of the room, letting the door click shut behind them.

Someone's lowered the volume on the speakers and switched on Ryan Seacrest’s Rockin’ New Year's Eve on the television. Some mediocre pop singer on stage as Robin leaves for a minute to retrieve and refill their glasses. He’s back quickly and the two of them clink their glasses in a silent toast before drinking deeply.

“Thank you for coming.” Robin whispers into her ear, an arm wrapped around her waist to keep her close while Regina snuggles into his side, her head tipping over to rest in the coveted space between shoulder and neck.

Her lips curve against his throat and Regina places a gentle kiss to the lightly stubbled skin there. “Thank you for inviting me.”

They stay that way until the final five minutes to midnight when they shift positions and Robin hugs his arms around Regina from behind, resting his chin atop her shoulder while they watch the hosts on screen, the hundreds of people crowded into Time Square cheering. Everyone has gathered in the living room at this point, all their attention focused on the tv. Will ribbing John for his lack of a date and therefore upcoming kiss while Ana smacks him on the shoulder.

There’s a jolly, anxious atmosphere to the room as the anticipation builds with each passing minute. Only two more to go now. Regina’s manicured nails trace lightly up and down the arm Robin has encircled around her waist, smiling at everyone around her even while her attention is mostly centered around Robin’s warmth surrounding her. She takes another sip of champagne, buzzed off the golden liquid and the man running his nose along her jaw.

One minute.

The group gathers their noisemakers and drinks with equal measure, arming themselves for the celebration when the clock switches between one year and the next. Circling around to face Robin, still wrapped in his arms, Regina smiles at him and slips her fingers through his hair. Then everyone in the room begins counting down around them.

Ten, nine, eight, seven…

Robin squeezes her a bit, already slowly leaning in toward her.

Six, five, four, three…

Her breath catches when his lips are only an inch from hers when he stops, waiting for those final few seconds.

Two, one…

Their lips connect, Robin’s slanting over Regina’s, molding against hers. Sparks seem to erupt from where their mouths meet, shimmering all around them, tiny invisible fireworks of their own and she moans as her head spins. His tongue tickles her for an all to brief moment before Robin pulls away, blue eyes sparkling as they gaze into her own brown ones.

“Happy New Year, Regina.”

Her smile is bright and luminous as she whispers back to him. “Happy New Year, Robin.”

—————

The party has finally wound down, the clock hanging along the far wall signaling it’s well after midnight, several hours into the new year already and Robin’s just closed the door behind the last of his guests, ensuring everyone is piled into cabs or paired up with those assigned to be designated drivers and safely on their way home.

Regina is perched on the arm of the sofa, hands gripping the edge on either side of her hips as she tips her head toward her shoulder and smiles a bit drunkenly at Robin as he comes back into the room. She should probably be going too. It’s late after all. But she’s had such a pleasant evening and she and Robin are truly alone now, no one to question where they’ve slipped off to or little boys to interrupt them and she wants a few minutes with him. Then she’ll go…

“Have I mentioned how incredibly stunning you look tonight?” Robin asks her, a smile of his own gracing his features as he comes to a stop in front of her. His fingers lift to brush back a few locks of hair from her forehead, tucking them behind her ear as the pad of his thumb caresses her cheek slowly, back and forth.

Giggling, ridiculously gratified by his praise, Regina confirms, “You have. Several times in fact.”

Leaning forward, so their noses bump playfully against each other, he whispers, “Perhaps your beauty is growing with each passing hour,” into the space between their lips.

She sincerely doubts that. There’s enough alcohol in her system that Regina knows she’s not as put together as she normally would be, as she had been when she’d walked in earlier tonight and his jaw had dropped. However, the complement has her heart fluttering in her chest like a schoolgirl. It’s almost embarrassing.

Regina shifts her head the other direction, letting it rest in the palm of his hand and replies with an amused smirk, “Charmer.”

Robin shrugs his shoulder good naturedly. “It’s true.” He pauses, “You’re so beautiful, Regina.”

From anyone else she might think the words to be a line, but Regina knows that Robin means it, can hear the sincerity behind them. Maybe it’s just the alcohol swirling around her brain, dulling her senses, but she’s ridiculously pleased with herself, with him. Staring into those clear blue eyes, her gaze drifting over his stubbled jaw, his tempting mouth, and her heart stutters as she whispers, “So are you.” Far too relaxed to be embarrassed by her words.

Music continues to play in the background, nothing overly intrusive, the same volume it’s been at for the better part of the last few hours, but without the steady hum of voices it’s more prevalent. Robin takes a step back, smiling at her with intention in his eyes as he holds out a hand, palm facing upward and asks, “Dance with me?”

It surprises her, shouldn’t, not really. Robin is nothing if not skilled in the romantic gestures department. And quite the dancer as she’d discovered earlier. Still, Regina’s heart rises and swells within her chest as her lips curve upward and she places her hand in his own, letting him pull her to her feet.

Just as Robin draws her in close to his body, flush against one another, chest to chest, thigh to thigh, the song changes to something slow and seductive, Michael Bublé’s voice sounding through the speakers as they begin to gently rock back and forth.

Wise men say only fools rush in

Her hand is tucked against Robin’s chest, his fingers curled around her own, and Regina rests her head on his shoulder as they move in tiny steps, around and around in a circle. Robin’s pine scent is still strong as her nose brushes against the side of his throat, makes her feel safe and content to stay right here, breathing him in. His other arm is curved around her waist, palm pressed to the small of her back, holding her close to him.

But I can't help falling in love with you

The lyrics of the song breach the fog of her addled brain and Regina barely resists letting out a snort. Nothing could be more fitting. For while it’s only been a week since that night in their office, a week of endless flirting and teasing notes, afternoon coffee dates and strings of midnight text messages, Regina feels herself falling for this man. He and his son have captured something within her heart that she hadn’t even known she’d been missing.

Perhaps it’s foolish to dive in head first the way that she has, with a co-worker no less, but in the last week Regina has been happier with him than in longer than she can remember. And she doesn’t want to let that go, refuses to let this chance slip through her grasp.

Shall I stay Would it be a sin

Robin’s mouth lowers to hers, slow and seductive, his lips pressing and molding against her own. The grip he has on her tightens as he pulls her impossibly closer, their movements slowing down, feet barely even shuffling back and forth at this point. Opening his mouth, the tip of his tongue traces lightly along the seam of her lips, urging them open, access that Regina happily grants as Robin deepens the kiss.

Her head is spinning pleasantly, a light, weightless feeling that trickles out through her limbs. A mixture of the champagne she’s been drinking throughout the night and Robin’s heady, addictive kiss. God, he’s a good kisser. His tongue swirls over hers, sweeping through her mouth and drawing her into him, tasting of the chocolate chip cookies he’d shared with Roland earlier in the night and sweet wine and something uniquely Robin.

Regina could drown in him.

If I can't help falling in love with you

“Stay.” Robin murmurs against her temple, placing a light kiss there as his fingers pulse against her waist, his nose running lovingly along the side of her face. “Stay the night with me, Regina.”

Opening her eyes, Regina pulls away from him, looking up into those pleading blue eyes that hold nothing but affection and wonder as they study her and Regina’s heart screams at her that this is exactly where she belongs. Who is she to resist what he’s offering?

Nodding, Regina murmurs quietly, “Alright.”

Relief washes over Robin’s face and then he’s sweeping down and capturing her lips in another kiss, letting his fingers thread through her hair, thumb caressing her cheek. Regina’s arms wrap around Robin’s neck, molding her body to his, and then he’s sweeping her up into his arms, lifting her off her feet, and she can’t contain the breathless laugh that escapes.

When he sets her back on the balls of her feet, Regina smirks up at him and Robin’s hands caress down her arms to take each of her hands, pulling her with him as he walks backward toward the stairs. His eyes never leave hers, desire and anticipation darkening them with every step they take. Excitement builds within Regina as they make their way to Robin’s bedroom.

They tiptoe down the hallway, stopping quietly to peek into Roland’s room, checking on him. The boy is fast asleep, hugging his grey stuffed monkey to his chest, snuggled beneath the covers, and Robin silently shuts the door again, continuing down the hall and twisting the knob of his own door. Leaving Regina standing in the doorway for a moment he strides over to the night stand, flicking on the lamp to cast the room in a quiet glow. Shadows dance across the room, but it’s enough light that they can see one another without being overly bright.

Regina takes a moment to let her attention wander around the room, noting the darkly stained furniture throughout the space, the muted green and brown tones. There are a few of Roland’s drawings framed and hung along the wall and they make Regina smile. It feels like Robin, suits him completely. Shifting her focus back to him she finds him watching her with that grin that makes her breath catch. There’s a hungry look in his eyes as he takes a few slow steps toward her. “What do you think?”

“I like it.” She responds, voice already a touch breathless and Regina chastises herself to pull it together. This isn’t the first time she’s ever been with a man, she shouldn’t be so worked up already. But it’s been a long night of flirty remarks and teasing touches, stolen kisses here and there, and whether she had intended for them to end up here or not, they’ve been slowly working themselves up all evening.

“I’m glad.” He replies, coming to a stop in front of her. Robin’s index finger trails lightly along the neckline of her dress, from her throat, over the swells of her breasts, down to the small v between them. It’s barely a touch at all, but it causes Regina to shiver as he murmurs in a deep, throaty whisper, “This dress has been driving me insane all night.”

“I know.” She grins, her own voice gravely. “That was my intention.”

It makes him laugh, those dimples she’s helpless against creasing his cheeks as he shakes his head at her, “You minx.”

“Is that a problem?” Regina sasses, the corner of her mouth tipping up in a flirty smirk.

Leaning forward Robin lets his forehead rest against hers, their mouths only an inch or so apart as his breath washes over her lips, “Not at all.” And then he’s closing the distance that separates them, molding his mouth to hers, tilting his lips over hers, and Regina loses herself in the feel of him for a few moments as their tongues tangle together.

Nerves skitter along her spine when his hand strokes down her side, outlining her curves and settling over her hip, fingers gripping while his mouth occupies her own. She’s nervous all of a sudden. Shouldn’t be. This is Robin. They’ve been coworkers for years and though this new romance has surprised both of them, Regina has discovered that she trusts him. There’s absolutely no reason for her to have butterflies dancing around in her belly.

He must sense her turn of thought because he pulls his mouth away from hers, runs his thumb along her jaw, just beneath her chin and asks quietly, “You’re sure?”

Something in the way he says it, or perhaps it’s just the way he’s looking at her, understanding and caring, but those nerves settle in Regina’s stomach immediately and she smiles up at him, nods once and replies, “Yes. I want you, Robin.”

He’d shed his blazer earlier in the evening, leaving him in just that button down shirt that Regina has been itching to rid him of for hours now. She lets her hands rest on his shoulders for a moment before they slide down his chest. Hard muscles twitch beneath her touch and Regina bites her bottom lip in admiration at the feel of them beneath her fingers, her nails scratch lightly over his abdomen before sweeping upward again and landing on the top button of his shirt. Her eyes meet his as she slowly slips it through the loop. Inching down to the next one, and the next, again and again until she’s undone every one and can slip the shirt from his shoulders, pushing it down his arms and revealing his toned torso.

Delicately, Regina smoothes the pads of her fingers over the smattering of hair along his chest, trails the tip of her finger in a line down the center and she feels his abs ripple beneath her touch. Fluttering her lashes at him, Regina grins and flirts, “Very impressive, Locksley.”

Robin laughs and kisses her briefly again. Just a quick thing before he’s pulling back and taunting playfully, “My turn, Ms. Mills.”

Regina nods her permission and stands perfectly still as Robin’s hands roam over her body, along the side of her throat, her shoulders, down her biceps. Slowly, he circles around until he’s standing behind her, let’s his gaze roam over the back of the dress. There’s a zipper that runs from collar down the entire back of the dark material and he dances his fingers up the length of it as he leans down to pepper kisses over her neck. He swirls his tongue over her skin, leaving wet trails in his wake as he inches upward to find that spot just behind her ear that makes her knees weak.

Of course he would find it almost instantly. Somehow he seems to know exactly what to do to have her mind clouding. Alcohol still courses through her veins and further helps her to relax as Robin bestows his attentions on her. Ever so slowly, his thumb and index finger pinch the zipper, tugging it down inch by inch at the same time as his mouth finds her earlobe to whisper seductively, “I’ve been picturing peeling you out of this dress since the moment you stepped through the door.”

Her entire body shivers as Robin punctuates his words with a light nip to her lobe between his teeth. Sliding the zipper halfway down her back, he stops just above the curve of her ass, revealing the expanse of her back to him and Robin hums appreciatively as he slides his hands over the newly exposed skin. Then he’s circling back around to face her. His movements remaining slow, he unhooks the collar to reveal the hollow of her throat and then dips his head to circle his tongue over her flesh there.

Regina’s skin tingles everywhere Robin’s lips touch, growing as his mouth ventures down her chest, peppering kisses over her skin before he’s pushing her dress over her shoulders and down her arms, letting it pool to the floor. Straightening, Robin takes a moment to let his gaze roam over her form.

She’d chosen a lacy lingerie set, in a deep plum color. The material of her bra is nearly see through, her already hardened nipples clearly visible through the sheer lace, and Robin groans at the sight of that alone. The swells of her breasts rise above the edges and he can’t wait to have them in his palms, to squeeze and knead at them. His eyes continue down her flat torso to the narrow strip of silk and lace at her hips in a matching color and he feels his stomach tighten with desire.

He’s not sure how he’s gotten this lucky, to be here with this incredible woman, granted the permission to touch her to his heart's content, but Robin is beyond grateful for whatever it was he did to have this woman brought into his life.

Reaching out his hands, he runs his palms over her skin, tugging her closer to him until she’s pressed against him and he can take her mouth with his. Regina’s fingers sneak their way between their bodies, deftly unhooking his slacks, pushing them off Robin’s hips and lightly rubbing her hand over his very obvious desire through his boxers. Robin lets out a low groan at her touch and scrapes his teeth along her lip.

Eager to draw the sound from him again, Regina presses her hand against him more firmly, her touch becoming bolder with each stroke up and down the hard length of him. Robin steadily rocks his hips against her hand as he kisses her with fervor until he abruptly parts their mouths, breathing labored when he drops his forehead to hers. “Regina…”

Curving her lips upward into a smile Regina taunts innocently, “Yes?” Her grip shifts to rest her hands on either side of his hips, the tips of her fingers dipping beneath his waistband.

Robin's fingers swirl over the skin of her back, creeping their way upward toward the clasp of her bra, toying with it as he draws back enough to look her in the eye. “As gorgeous as you are in this...I think it's time it goes.” With that, he deftly frees the hooks, letting the plum colored straps slip down her arms before pulling the material from her chest and tossing it aside. Robin's eyes darken as his gaze roams over her, “So beautiful.”

Standing before him, Regina waits for Robin to move, his steady gaze drifting over her. Her body feels like it's buzzing, whether from the champagne earlier or anticipation she doesn't know, probably both, but Regina isn't sure how much longer she can wait to have him.

Warm hands reach out to cup her breasts, thumbs flicking over her nipples, teasing, and Regina moans, over sensitive. Smirking at her reaction, Robin lowers his head and latches his lips around one of her breasts. His tongue swirls over her, sucking steadily while his other hand continues to massage her breast. It feels wonderful, amazing. Regina’s hands find their way into Robin’s hair, anchoring herself as sensations swirl through her.

He switches to the other breast, bestowing the same attentions to that one until Regina is arching her back and trying desperately to find a bit of relief for the ache between her thighs. Granting her a bit of reprieve, Robin slips a hand between her legs, rubbing at her over the silk of her panties. Groaning, he releases her breast with a wet pop and mutters, “God, you’re soaked, Regina.”

She doesn’t doubt it, not with the how much she wants him and how her body has reacted to his touches already. “Mmhmm” She agrees, eyes closed as she focuses on how amazing Robin’s hand feels against her. Hooking his fingers around the waistband of her panties, he draws them down over her hips, kneeling before her as Regina steps out of them.

And then she is blessedly bare in front of him and Robin once again thanks his lucky stars for being here with her. “Bloody gorgeous.” He mutters before swooping in to drag his tongue through her folds, lapping up a bit of the wetness that has gathered there. Regina moans, her head falling back, hair draping to tickle between her shoulder blades.

Intent on his task and drawing more of those deep, throaty moans from her, Robin sucks at her clit. Two of his fingers stroke through her folds before slipping inside her, thrusting up into her. It works. Regina mewls her pleasure, hands gripping almost painfully at his hair as she anchors herself to him. “Oh god, Robin, that feels… mmmmm… so good.” He scrapes his teeth lightly over her sensitive bud, swirling his tongue around it quickly after then wraps his lips around it once more.

For the next few minutes he sucks and licks at her, fingers arching inside her and hitting that spot within her that has delicious bursts of pleasure exploding every time Robin finds it. Regina feels her body tightening, fighting its way toward orgasm. As amazing as his mouth feels, she wants more, wants him. Her voice is raspy as Regina licks her lips and finally opens her eyes to look down at him. “Robin, I — oh, yes.” Hips rocking against his mouth of their own accord Regina struggles to finish her thought. “I want you. Now. Inside me.”

Robin sucks at her clit for another moment before pulling back to look up at her. Those gorgeous blue eyes so dark they appear nearly navy in color as he nods and then places a few kisses over her lower stomach on his way back up her body, fingers slipping out of her.

Their mouths meet in a fierce kiss and Regina can taste herself on his tongue, groans as her arms band tightly around his neck and her body molds to his. Her breasts are pressed to his chest, nipples hard points that the wiry hair on his chest tickles. Biting her lower lip between his teeth, Robin tugs and then releases it, panting a bit.

He’s hard as a rock, aching for her, desperate to feel her. Moving quickly, Robin sheds himself of his boxers, kicking them off his ankles before gripping her hands and walking backward until the back of his knees hit the bed and he plops down. Regina smirks at him, gaze darting down to where his cock is standing at attention. “Apparently I’m not the only one that’s eager.” She teases.

“God, no.” Robin laughs, voice a touched strained as he tries to contain himself when her soft hands wrap around him, stroking up and down his shaft a few times, swiping her thumb over his head, before releasing him and climbing into his lap. She takes his mouth with hers, the both of them sighing as his cock is now nestled between her folds, rubbing against her clit as Regina rocks her hips and their tongues sweep into each other’s mouths.

They stay that way for a minute or two before they fall back to the mattress laughing and then Robin is rolling them over, one hand resting beside Regina’s head as he hovers over her. Bending his head, Robin kisses her again, then drags his tongue over her jaw, down her throat to suck at the vulnerable skin there. Regina moans, “Robin—“ They’ve teased each other enough and both of them are more than ready.

Chuckling, he nips at the joint where her neck and shoulder meet and then he’s stretching over toward the nightstand. Sliding the drawer open, he quickly pulls out a foil wrapper, sitting back on his heels as he rips the packet open and quickly covers himself. He leans over her once more, the tip of him brushing against her entrance as he gazes down at her, such deep affection and desire in his eyes, Regina’s breath stops. Then he’s pushing himself inside her and every rational thought in her head melts away.

Both of them moan as Regina’s wet, warm heat envelops him, drawing him in. Robin’s hips still for a moment, buried deep inside her, waiting for Regina’s eyes to meet his, ensuring she’s alright before he’s rocking in and out of her slowly. It feels incredible, beyond anything he ever could have imagined. One of his hands skates across her skin to cup her breast, pinching a nipple between his fingers and she groans.

He’s thick and wonderful and the onslaught of sensations overwhelms Regina for a moment. Screwing her eyes shut she lets herself revel in the feel of him inside her, stretching her, creating a glorious friction that has heat spreading throughout her limbs as he pumps in and out of her.

Their mouths meet for another kiss and Regina slips her arms around Robin’s back, letting them caress over his skin, nails digging into his flesh on a particularly deep thrust that has her crying out. She’s close already, worked up and needy and everything he’s doing to her is pushing her nearer to that edge.

Breaking the kiss, Regina tucks her face into the crook of his neck, inhaling his scent and letting her tongue dart out to taste his skin, a bit slick and salty from the light dew of sweat that covers him. She kisses her way up to his ear, biting his lobe between her teeth before whispering into his ear, “Mmmm… Robin, you feel so good. Don’t stop.” Her voice is airy, laced with lust and longing as she demands, “Faster. I want you so much.”

Moaning, Robin happily obeys her request, increasing the pace of his thrusts, cock pounding into her over and over again. He’s close to the edge himself, the combined sensation of her mouth and body and those deep whimpers rapidly drawing him toward that peak. Maneuvering his hand further down between them he swipes his thumb over her clit, rubbing along with his thrusts.

Regina cries out, gasping and nodding her head as it falls back against the pillow beneath her. Her body is tingling, teetering on a cliff of ultimate bliss as Robin slides in and out of her, touching her. “That’s it, babe. Let go for me. I wanna watch you come.” He mutters, pounding harder into her, and that British accent of his ridiculously sexy. A few more thrusts are all it takes to have her tightening around him, muscles spasming as she whimpers in pleasure.

It’s a true sight to behold, Regina Mills coming on his cock, and Robin bites his bottom lip, struggles to hold out for just a little longer, letting her ride out her orgasm for as long as he can. When her eyes finally flutter open, meeting his and grinning up at him, he lets go of that thin strip of control and jerks his hips sharply against hers, once, twice, three times before he’s spilling over.

Panting, Robin collapses on top of her, his head landing beside hers and peppering kisses over the side of her neck. Regina wraps her arms around him, snuggling into him, enjoying the feel of his heated skin against her own for a minute or two before he’s gripping the condom at the base of his shaft to keep it from slipping and rolling off her onto his back. She turns her head to look at him, grinning when his chest continues to heave while he catches his breath. “Wow.” Is all he says when he turns his head to meet her gaze.

Laughing, Regina turns on her side, propping her head on her hand to grin at him. “Yeah. That was definitely something. Another hidden talent, huh?” Robin chuckles, lifting a hand to push a lock of hair that’s fallen over her face behind her ear. He sits up and slowly stands from the bed, striding into the bathroom to dispose of the condom before returning to her.

Robin turns down the comforter they hadn’t bothered with earlier and waits for Regina to wiggle beneath it before he slips in after her. Drawing her into his arms as she settles her head against his shoulder contentedly. Pressing a kiss into her hair, he murmurs softly, “Thank you for spending New Years with me, Regina.”

Her lips curve against his chest and she lets her eyes close as they lay together in the afterglow. “Thank you for making it so special.” She replies quietly.

Never in a million years would Regina have thought that her year would end up like this. And as she lays curled up in Robin’s arms, naked and sated, drifting off to sleep to the feeling of him stroking his hand over her hair, she can’t wait to find out what the next three hundred and sixty five days will hold.

#outlaw queen #oq ff #oq fan fiction #oq fan fics #brookeap3 writing #regina and robin #regina and robin hood #Regina Mills #robin hood

[lotsofdogs]

Things I’m Loving Friday #239

Friday is here!! It’s kind of crazy to think that this could be our last weekend before our little one arrives… or I could easily be typing up my TILF post with a baby in my belly again next week. At my appointment on Wednesday, I learned that I’m two centimeters dilated which doesn’t mean much at this point but I was actually admitted to the hospital when I was two centimeters dilated with Chase when I was 38 weeks which blows my mind a bit.

Since I don’t want to sit around and feel like we’re just waiting for signs of labor all weekend (aka a great way to drive myself crazy), I’m thrilled we have a great distraction arriving in town this evening. My parents are driving up from Florida and we have a weekend of boating, grilling out and relaxation on the agenda. Bring on the fun!

And now, before I sign off to soak up some family fun all weekend, I wanted to share my usual Things I’m Loving Friday post with you guys! Let’s dive right in, shall we!?

Things I’m Loving Friday

“Mom, We Just Talk A Little Bit”

I read somewhere that when it comes to raising a toddler, you’ll either experience the “Terrible Twos” or a “Threenager.” It sounds like no one can fully avoid the challenges associated with toddlerhood! We’ve had our fair share of toddler battles and meltdowns but, for the most part, Chase is a really joyful little guy, kind, polite and a big ray of sunshine in my day every day… But recently, however, he seems to have entered a phase where his immediate reaction to many (MOST) things I ask him to do is the exact opposite of my request. It’s requiring me to become more creative as a mother and infinitely more patient which, at times, it admittedly hard.

I think this is why, lately, some of the quiet moments where Chase’s sweet heart shines through hit me even harder than usual. His high-pitched requests for playing (“Mom, you want to play airplanes with me?”), reading books and talking together (“Mom, we just talk a little bit?”) make my heart turn to mush. The “talk a little bit” request is one that came about a few months ago but surfaced again this week when he wanted to simply hold my hand and talk about his morning at camp before bed one evening. I could’ve cried no less than 10 times as we rocked together in him room and he told me all about Water Day at camp and a visit from the ice cream truck and then segued into telling me what he thought he was going to dream about that night (Sadie, Mom and Dad… and dragons).

File this under weird things I already think about as a mom, but I told Ryan I cannot help but feel a little nervous about future years – mainly teenage years – when I am not naive enough to think Chase will still want to share everything with me. I love the way Chase talks to me right now and wants to share the most minute details of his life (or his imaginary stories) with me at rapid-fire speed. I  I love our open, honest and continuous communication right now and while I know it’s natural for Chase to pull back as he gets older, understanding how fast time flies by makes me really want to slow down and savor his “talk a little bit” requests even more.

A Clean Car

I have to believe I am currently in the midst of some last-minute nesting urges because I’ve found myself doing a ton of random projects around the house during any spare minute I may have had this week. Yesterday’s must-do? Cleaning out my car! I swore I’d never have a car filled with crumbs and dirt but then a toddler came into my life and I’ve been driving around in a Crumbmobile for months. My car desperately needed to be vacuumed and wiped down and I took a solid hour to give it a thorough clean. I only gagged once over a horrible snack I found under Chase’s car seat which seemed to be some kind of gelatinous goo mixed with Goldfish cracker crumbs. Hooray for clean cars!

Oh, and in case you were wondering where all of your bobbypins go when they unexpectedly disappear, the answer is the depths of your car.

A Positive Update

If you follow me on Instagram and Facebook you already know about my Wednesday prenatal appointment, but it was a bit unnerving in the beginning. My anxiety peeked as I waited to see our baby on the monitor during my doctor-requested ultrasound but thankfully everything ended up okay and I got to see our baby in 3D. It was amazing. Our little one has the sweetest little button nose and pouty lips and seemed to like to hang out in my belly with his or her little fist balled up right in front of their tiny face. (This reminded me so much of how Chase loved to sleep as a newborn!) I was overcome with a range of emotions – relief, love and so much gratitude – and left feeling all the more excited for the moment Ryan and I get to meet our baby and snuggle up with a tiny newborn. It’s crazy to me that it could truly be ANY day now… or in a week or two!

New Phone (And No More Broken Home Button!)

I haven’t upgraded my phone in three(ish) years and I was totally fine with my old phone until the home button broke. I’ve tried to have it professionally fixed numerous times and have been living with a phone without a working home button for several months. (Yes, this is as annoying as it sounds.)

Well, I finally got my act together and upgraded my phone yesterday morning. This was another one of those items on my before baby to-do list that I was hoping to accomplish before our little one arrives mainly because I am excited for a better phone camera and portrait mode! Woohoo! But, I’m not going to lie, no longer relying on some random app to work as my home button trumps everything. And now to shop for a new phone case…

Father’s Day Gift Ideas

I’m not planning to share a full Father’s Day Gift Guide on the blog this year just because I feel a bit pressed on time (gift guides take me a shockingly LONG time to put together), but here are a few ideas I had swimming around in my brain to hopefully help give you some ideas!

Surprise Car Detailing (Can you tell what inspired this one!? Ha!)

Fitbit Versa (Both Ryan and my dad have this watch and rave about it)

Plan a Date Night or a Family Activity Day

BONOBOS Chinos (Ryan LOVES these and they’re currently 25 percent off. They fit so well!)

Marshall Kilburn Bluetooth Portable Speaker (A total splurge but Ryan and I are both obsessed with ours and use it all the time in the house, in the backyard, in the garage, etc. Excellent sound quality!)

Tickets to a concert/sporting event/comedy show, etc.

New Book (One of Ryan’s recent favs is Ready Player One)

Kiehl’s Ultimate Man Scrub Soap (Ryan’s favorite “splurge” soap I give him for almost every holiday)

Adidas Slides (These are coming back in style and Ryan never stopped wearing his even when they weren’t cool. He says he feels vindicated! Haha! He prioritizes comfort over everything and there’s nothing more comfy than a pair of pool slides in the hot summer months. I like the sleek look of this gray pair and they’re only $35.)

Hydroflask Water Bottle

From the kids:

Homemade Cake or Dad’s Favorite Breakfast

D-A-D Picture Frame Photo Project (See above!)

Homemade Signs + Cards

All About Dad Q&A

  Friday Flashbacks

60-40-20 Kettlebell Workout (A total body kettlebell workout formatted in a decreasing repetition pattern so you’ll get the most challenging part of the workout out of the way first!)

12 Best Baby Toys for the First Year (Looking back at this post gave me all the feels! So many nostalgic memories from the toys Chase LOVED during his first year!)

Question of the Day

What is one thing that is making you smile this week?

[Read More ...] https://www.pbfingers.com/things-im-loving-friday-239/

#health #fitness

[heliosfinance]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

  ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

  ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

  ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

  The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[fesahaawit]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

 ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

 ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

 ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

 The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation posted first on http://ift.tt/2lnwIdQ

[heliosfinance]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

  ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

  ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

  ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

  The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[heliosfinance]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

  ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

  ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

  ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

  The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[heliosfinance]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

  ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

  ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

  ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

  The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[heliosfinance]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

  ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

  ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

  ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

  The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[fesahaawit]

#Money Motivation

There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world today.

Here are some emails I’ve saved over the months which can’t help but get you to smile and be proud of your fellow man :) None of this money stuff happens over night, but it’s amazing what a little patience and just plain CARING will do once you set your mind to things!

Let this inspire you to keep on pushing through yourselves, and if any of you have a good comeback story please do share it below (or shoot me a note privately).

******

The Hustler

I have always lived from paycheck to paycheck until sometime in 2015 (yes that is how late I was to the ‘savers cult’) I came across an article on Forbes about a blogger who socked away 400k in 7 years.

I brushed it aside at first and told myself, ‘I’m not making much a year so I can’t save. I was born in a poor family so I will never be rich, blah blah, excuse after excuse. Didn’t save the whole of 2015.

In January 2016 I looked at my account and I had -$20 in my checking and $200 in my savings. I then became serious and religiously read your articles. I was making $34k at the time. I signed up for my work 401k and IRA. Started working hard, got a raise and now I’m making $37k/year before taxes (which is not a lot of money in Chicago).

Last year I saved $10k. This year I’m targeting $20k in savings. I started side hustles and right now I also work as a dishwasher on weekends (I use the dishwashing money for utilities, transport and food). For my rent I use money from my 9-5 job. I now have 18k in savings after 15 months.

(Hope I make sense, English is my second language.)

 ******

The Multi-Millionaire

I have been a long-time fan of your website and your monthly “Net Worth Tracker” posts inspired me to start calculating my own….

I finished medical school in 2008 and resolved to have a 7-figure net worth by the time I hit 40 (which will be in 2024). This was no small goal, given the debt level I accumulated at that time (~$100,000).

Fast forward to 2009 when I started tracking my net worth at a grand total of $0. I worked diligently during residency (advanced training after medical school) to moonlight and retire all of my student loans. I managed to do that by the time I finished in 2011.

Fast forward again to August of 2014 and I hit my goal of a 7-figure net worth 10 years early. Finally, this brings us to my most recent net worth calculation which doubled from 3 years ago to just over $2 million (woohoo, multimillionaire status!!) at age 33.

All of this to say that I did not accomplish this with a get-rich-quick scheme or investing everything in Google’s IPO. Low expense ratio ETF’s, healthy savings in tax-advantaged 401(k)’s and IRAs and an absolute fear and loathing of debt truly are the paths to wealth.

 ******

The Change Saver

I have been reading your fine blog for roughly a year, and first took notice after reading an article on your blog about saving spare change. I had just begun the endeavor and kind of made it an experiment to see how much I could save in a year.

Lo and behold it amounted to over $1,600.00!! I don’t intend to ever stop my coin saving now! Saving has become addictive for me!

Next I read your article on unclaimed property, and BOOM! – I have two claims totaling $3,500.00!!!!!….. man, it gives me pause because its SO GRATIFYING!….

I also have another trick to save money which is also like a little hobby too – I save and collect $2 bills. [Editor’s Note: me too – they make great gifts/tips!]

 ******

The Conscious Spender

For years I have been telling myself that since I can’t afford big ticket items right now, I may as well make myself happier in the short term by spending whatever amount of discretionary income I have.

When it dawned on me that I could save most of that money instead – albeit in small amounts at a time – the thought actually terrified me. I felt like I was just pissing in the wind whenever I turned down some kind of instant gratification (eg. picking up lunch, drinks after work, seeing a movie) in favor of the big picture. Tbh I didn’t even know if there was a big picture, putting $5 and $10 dollars into savings at a time.

Funny how the big picture suddenly looked a lot clearer when I saw my savings hit the thousand dollar mark for the first time! I realized I wanted to do a lot of things I had told myself I could never do: own my own home being the biggie. I still have times when I doubt what’s possible, but I’m too scared to give up now as I never want to go back to how I did things before.

Another spinoff? I am now way better at managing my income overall, have trimmed the budget on everything, and find myself being a lot more creative with the small amount of personal expenses I do still allow myself. I actually think I have more fun and get more stuff I want… because I am forced to think consciously about things!

(I’ve also gotten better at saying No to things like social events that I don’t really want to attend. I’m learning how to put my own needs first, and I enjoy it more when I do want to go out now, as I know I’ve chosen to and can afford it (instead of resenting it, which was too often the case: not a great basis for one’s social life!))

 The takeaways today?

First, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Then you need to just *start*

Then hustle

And have patience

And stay motivated

And record your milestones

And, ultimately, want it bad enough to keep going

Almost all of these people starting with nothing, and in a matter of time completely changed things around – both in their wallets, and more importantly, in their minds. And without your mind right, there’s no way your money will follow!

So keep on learning, doing, and dreaming y’all. One day after the next. You got this!

****** More motivational boosts:

Proof you can live off 50% of your income

Proof you can get rid of all your debt

Proof you can become a millionaire

#Money Motivation posted first on http://ift.tt/2lnwIdQ