#yes I am still trying to finish the French gp

[f1]

Norris takes a 'lot of positives' from France despite Alpine edging ahead of McLaren in the championship

Lando Norris had put in what he called a “very, very good lap” in qualifying to seal P5 on the grid and split the two Mercedes cars. But the youngster had indicated he would struggle to stay there in the race and so it proved, as he lost out to both George Russell and Fernando Alonso to come home a still solid seventh. In France, McLaren were running a raft of new upgrades, which helped Norris to extract the absolute maximum from his MCL36 on Saturday over one lap. But he wasn’t able to replicate that feeling during the race, although he was still pleased with the progress the team had made. READ MORE: 6 Winners and 5 Losers from the French Grand Prix – Which drivers shone at a sunny Circuit Paul Ricard? “I think there’s still a lot of positives – it’s helped the car, it’s moved it in the right direction,” he said. “Some of those improvements in balance that I seemed to have for yesterday, I lost today and went away from me, and I just didn’t have the same confidence in the car. Good work by the team; we’d have been a lot slower if we didn’t have [the upgrades].” Norris lost out to Alonso at the start, but was at least able to keep Ocon behind Norris was overtaken by a fast-moving Alonso at the start, and never had the pace to take the fight to the Spaniard across the following 53 laps. Combined with Esteban Ocon coming home in P8 ahead of Daniel Ricciardo, the result meant Alpine forged ahead of McLaren in the constructors’ championship to the tune of four points. “I was trying to keep up with Fernando for the whole race, and pushing like hell the whole time,” Norris admitted. “I was trying to save the tyres and push and save and push, whereas I felt like Fernando was chilling the whole race.” READ MORE: Binotto says Ferrari must 'turn the page' and secure a 1-2 in Hungary after French GP loss Alpine’s superior race pace is definitely a concern heading into the second half of the season, and something Norris’s team mate also witnessed first-hand. “Still certainly tricky out there. [I was] playing defence when I want to be on the attack,” said Ricciardo, who came home ninth. “I tried to hold on to Esteban Ocon for as long as I could, but in the end the Alpines were a bit too quick today. Managed to hold on to the Astons at the end but obviously want to be catching cars not falling back into the hands of the others.” Daniel Ricciardo: P9 in French GP not 'enough points to make me feel satisfied' For Ricciardo, it was the first time he’s managed back-to-back points finishes this season – but he was also embroiled in a race of tyre management and still seeking answers as to why he couldn't extract the performance he wanted from both car and tyres. HIGHLIGHTS: Relive the action from a dramatic French Grand Prix, as Verstappen capitalises on Leclerc's misfortune “I think once we got through like halfway through the stint the others could just keep that pace and I would simply just fall off, just unable to use anymore of… the tyre or the grip. Yes, I don’t feel like I am aggressive on the tyre or anything, just simply can’t hold what the others can.” He was upbeat post-race despite his struggles with tyre management but he won't have long to try and find any answers, with just a week to trawl through the data before racing resumes in Hungary. via Formula 1 News https://www.formula1.com

#F1 #Norris takes a 'lot of positives' from France despite Alpine edging ahead of McLaren in the championship #Formula 1

[drivindrivin]

I do really enjoy the McLarens passing Sainz, it’s very satisfying.

#yes I am still trying to finish the French gp #2021 french gp

[psychewithwings]

Pt. 1 A Visitor... Once Again  Kirishima x Goddess!reader

hello hello, this is my contribution to this months bnharem collab! The theme was ‘mythology and lore’ and hit very close to my ancient greek loving soul. We have so many wonderful writers and artists that have worked hard so pls check out the rest of the collab here!!!

I’ve been rather ill and so I’ll be breaking it up into parts, part 2 will be out as soon as I am feeling more myself (which will hopefully be next week). Please enjoy a story about 2 of my favourite characters. Kirishima Eijirou, as his hero self (tho with a demi-god twist) and reader! as Kalypso, the goddess, daughter of Atlas, the titan who holds up the sky. Her curse is that she is forced to live alone on an island and fall in love with any visitor who falls to her shores. Once she falls for them, she is forced to ask if they would like to stay and she may grant them immortality if they say yes, and if not? They may leave. They have no way of leaving the island until she falls in love. She is a kind and wonderful character and I have a lot of love for her, (perhaps I relate to her a bit too much) so it is an honor to tell a new version of her story. 

This is set in present day even tho Kalypso is an ancient greek figure, Kirishima is about 25-28 here? Pro hero Kiri!

TW: a small sex scene in the beginning, little bit of dirty talk, penetration

———————————————————————

“Fuck, thats it baby, feel it going all the way inside? Feels good right?” You moan into his neck, “s-so good.” He starts to thrust in and out slowly. Your nails dig into the muscles of his back… his… names and faces are unimportant blurs as he continues to thrust inside. Each drag of his cock hits each sweet spot and taps against your cervix. “Fuck~ you feel so fucking good darling, so-fucking-good, perfect, fucking perfect… yeah that's it clamp down on my cock, massage it with that perfect pussy.” His hand slips between your sweat soaked bodies and rubs quick circles over your clit. “Gonna cum for me baby? I can feel it, you’re about to gush~” You cry into his neck, soft tears of ecstasy hitting his skin. You’re close, so very close-

“Hello? Hey!!! Is anyone home?? Hello?”

You open your eyes and the man above you, the cock inside you, all falls away. It had all been a dream… a delicious, wonderful dream. A dream that had been ruined by an incurable racket. You stare groggily at the ceiling. The ache in your core of having been so close to cumming now boils into a rage. “Hello?!?! Is someone here? Hello??” Your brow crinkled in confusion as to who the rasping voice belonged to. You check to see if you had somehow managed to flip the tv on but the screen was dark. “Does anyone live here?” It dawned on you then… It’s a visitor.

You check the clock that blinks 5:37AM. You groan into a pillow and kick your legs in an attempt to relieve the ache. Your bare thighs are covered in your arousal, which has turned into your frustration. You stay lying still in hopes that he will go away, leave you alone, never return. “HELLO????!?!” But he had to stop screaming and it didn’t seem like he was going to until he came into contact with someone… You knew the nature of the curse well enough at this point but you would try to rebel as long as you could…

You flip the covers off of your body and slowly walk to grab a robe to cover yourself with. You stare at your reflection in the full length mirror while you finish tying the robe. “We got this,” you point to yourself, “no falling in love this time, no falling in love no matter what, ever again, you hear me?” You nod back to yourself. “Pinkie swear.” You touch pinkies with the mirror and laugh coldly. “No more foolish love,” you sarcastically remark before opening the french doors and stepping onto the balcony.

You stare down at the man who had been shouting for so long and your heart drops. He’s beautiful, red hair hanging in his face, still wet with the sea. His body must have been designed by the muses and chiseled by delicate hands. It’s clear even through his clothes. Son of Ares? Or even Zeus perhaps? He is interesting, never had you seen a demigod with such clear physical strength and kind eyes. The combination was rare. He gives you a grin which then fades to surprise. “Oh- I am so sorry, my manners,” he laughs nervously before slowly kneeling on the ground. “Great Goddess, I humble myself now in front of your grace and all encapsulating beauty…” You roll your eyes hoping he will take the hint and shut up. It wasn’t any different from the men before him… It was the same shit as always, though you were disappointed, this one seemed different upon first glance. “...your magnificence is profound, you are both elegant and ethereal in your just standing there-” you cut him off before he can continue the asinine speech. “Ya done?” you ask bluntly.

His eyes grow wide and he softly utters a “what?” You roll your eyes and lean on the gold railing. “Dude, it’s 5am, you’re yelling and ranting, can ya just get to the point?” He remains on his knees in a bow. His pitch varies with confusion as he speaks. “My ship, uhh I crashed it on your shore, and I was hoping that you could umm, maybe assist me in getting home? I-” he hangs his head for a moment, perhaps in exhaustion before continuing. “I have no GPS, no compass, not even a map… if I could do it without bothering you, I would, nothing you for help isn’t very manly... but please Goddess, please help me get home.”  You sigh, century after century of the same request has really weakened your patience, though he had asked nicer than most. “You’re stuck here for the foreseeable future,” you smile slightly. You wait for the look of annoyance, frustration, fear… but it never comes. In fact he gives a slight half smile as he stands. “Well, nothing we can do?” he asks. “‘Fraid not,” you sigh. He starts to say something else but he winces. “Are you okay?” you ask, genuine concern bleeding through the nonchalant tone you had been practicing the past milenia. He nods and grabs hold of his side. “I got a little beat up, but don’t worry goddess, ‘tis but a flesh wound,” he tips his head down.  As he raises his head he looks deathly pale. “Hey sit down okay?” you call down to him, but it’s too late. His eyes roll back and he collapses. “Shit-” you mutter to yourself as you run down to him.

He lays there in a crumpled heap, his breathing shallow. “Wish you’d said you were hurt first dummy,” you grumble before assessing the situation. You need to get him to the herbs and the back porch. This wouldn't be easy, he’s big, huge really. But he collapsed on his side which makes things easier. You hook an arm around one of his and the other around a leg. It takes a lot and it's a staring but you manage to lift him on your shoulders. If your father can hold up the sky, you can surely carry this brick house of a man back to the bed on the porch. 

You step into the house while fireman carrying him to the screened-in porch to lay him down on the daybed. You place him carefully in the soft, green covers and he whines softly. “You’re gonna be just fine,” you reassure gently. Your back porch was reserved for growing herbs, arts and crafts, summer sleep, and it occasionally became a makeshift infirmary when visitors came to you injured and in need of patching up. It happened once every few centuries…

You grabbed some fabric scissors and cut away his shirt to reveal what had been ailing him. You hoped for a broken rib, those were easy to heal with a careful dose of leaf from the widows bone flower and some angel root. But what lay beneath was worse than imagined. A deep gash in his side had tried to close over and heal but it’s irritated, angry. The wound is oozing a sickly yellow pus and iridescent ichor. The skin around it is red with infection. This is one of the worst you’d been brought with. You touch his head, it’s hot and sticky with sweat. This wasn’t good. “Wait here, okay?” You grab a clump of angel root and take it back inside to the kitchen, setting it in a pot of water to boil. You grab a cloth and wet it under the sink in cold water.

You place it on his forehead and sit on the bed beside him. His face was relaxed and he was even more beautiful now. You brush the hair from his eyes and smile down at him, there was something familiar about him… like you’d met before. Though no one could return to Ogygia.

You lean down to where you can speak over his heart in a language that cannot be written or replicated... But the meaning of the words would go something like:

You are healing

You are youthful and strong

Your heart knows how to heal because it is made of love

Pure love can heal anything

You are healing now

You repeat this chant until you hear his breath deepen and watch the cut sooth. It’s a small enchantment but it has done its job. Sure, you’re no Circe, or her brethren, but you’re an enchantress all the same.

You rush back inside and grab the angel root, that's now wet and flexible from being submerged in water. You lay it across his wound before wrapping it carefully. “There now, wait here and I’m going to get you some nectar to drink,” He doesn't respond but his face is relaxed, less anguished, less in pain. You sigh in relief, hopefully that will be enough to close the wound in a day or so, else he will need to be stitched up.

You return with a small bottle of nectar and a dropper to feed him with. You coax his jaw to relax with your hand before dropping the nectar slowly onto his tongue. “You heroes are an awful lot of trouble… you know that?” You continue to feed him slowly so he won’t choke. You sigh in relief as the colour returns back to his face. He’s so beautiful he’s almost glowing, you start to reach for him, to brush the hair from his eyes but you stop yourself and turn away. “No, no love this time, remember?” you say to your reflection in the glass of the windows.

His eyes flutter open with long slow blinks. You watch as they focus on you. He blinks again. “Elyssium,” he breathes and you can’t help but chuckle. “No, Ogygia,” you correct gently. “I’m Eijirou,” he smiles. You laugh again. “No no, this island, where you are is called Ogygia, you aren’t dead,” you assure. He blinks up at you still and you curse the gods for creating him to be so breathtaking. “And what are you called?” he asks. He attempts to sit up but finds it difficult. You place your hand on his head, it’s warm and you can feel his brow relax against your palm. “You’re much better now, but just take your time…” His hands touch his torso and then move to his head. “You healed me?” You nod, “I’ll have to sew this one the rest of the way, it was quite deep.” He circles his hand around your arm, his thumb stroking soft circles. “Thank you, goddess,” he murmurs. You pull away, his touch sending lightning down into your fingertips. You don't remember the last time you had a visitor on this island of yours… but none of the previous visitors seemed to matter anymore, even though each one had stolen your heart some way or another. But no- no love, not this time, not now, not again… It hurt, but you suppressed the feelings of desire and brushed your hands down the front of your robe. “It’s nothing, but for the love of the lethe, stop calling me goddess. Kalypso is fine, just Kalypso.”

He grabs your hand as you turn to leave, “thank you... Kalypso, thank you for saving my life.” In all the years you had been saddled with this curse, it was rare for the visitor to say your name... and none of them, had said your name quite like that. 

You pull your hand from his grasp and make sure not to look back, even though you want to. “You’re welcome,” you answer simply, “I’ll uhh- get you some water.”   

to be added to the taglist

#kirishima #bnha #kirishima eijirou #kirishima x reader #kirishima x y/n #kirishima x you #kiri #eijiro x reader #kirishima eijiro x reader #bnharem #bnharem collab #august collab

[silverwhiteraven]

Borne of the Stars - Chapter 14 - An MLB Kryptonian AU

Tag List:  @eve-valution @weird-pale-blonde-person @kris-pines04 @soulmate-game @abrx2002 @amayakans @vixen-uchiha @heldtogetherbysafetypins @raisuke06 @dorkus-minimus @mopester-is-here @moonlightstar64 @annabellabrookes @toodaloo-kangaroo @the-navistar-carol @elspethshadow @chocolatecatstheron @ivymala07 @maribat-is-lifeblood

[ Summary: Author is Back! The Heroes now meet. They also meet their first Akuma. ]

[ Posted on A03 ] [ Chapter 1 ] [ Chapter 13 ] [ Chapter 15 ]

Marinette was falling.

Well, falling as much one could when holding on for dear life to one end of a magical yo-yo that acted as its own weird grappler mixed with a trapeze. Neither of which she had ever used in her life.

First time for everything she supposed, though she also hoped this wouldn’t end with lasts, either.

Speaking of firsts being lasts, she realized her latest upswing was about to turn into a crash course collision with a black clad figure floating in the open air. As she yelled a terrified “ Look out!! ” at the person she didn't know was friend or foe, she really did wish this would be her one and only time her bad aim with a yo-yo ever turned into this situation. She really doubted it, though, but a girl can dream.

She barely saw a flash of blonde hair and green, green eyes turn towards her in shock before they slammed into each other, and fell several meters to a high rooftop below with mutual ‘ oofs ’ and wire wrapped around them. They rolled to a stop, Marinette resting awkwardly atop the other who had her back to the roof.

“I am so so sorry!” Marinette immediately apologized as soon as breath was back in her lungs. “I’m really new at this, I-” She was interrupted and silenced a moment later by a laugh and green, feline eyes looking into her own from below.

“Don’t worry about it, little lady,” the girl clad in black soothed reassuringly, her French accented. “I know a thing or two about knocking everything over when you first start out. I’d make a great practice dummy if you ever need it. Now, let's get out of this- uh…” She looked down, confused, at the string around them as she gave her arms a tug. “Wow, this stuff is stronger than I thought.”

Marinette could just feel the yo-yo string staying firmly tight with every tug, and realized she still had one end of it in her hand. “Oh! Let me just-” One tug, and the yo-yo came zipping around them and back into her hand. She was up in an instant, backing up with a flush of embarrassment on her face. “S-sorry, again, I’ll get better at this soon.”

The other girl just grinned, revealing pointed canines as she stood up as well. “Take your time, I can carry us both for as long as we need until you’re ready.”

A distant rumble caught their attention, and the blonde girl went tense and turned back to Marinette.

“Let’s make these introductions quick. I’m Oncilla the Black Cat,” The girl in black said, a hand over her heart and the other behind her back, taking a rather formal looking bow. “You must be the Ladybug I was told to expect?”

Marinette gaped like a fish for a moment before nodding quickly. “Oh, yes! Ladybug, yeah, you can call me that, not many other options with this costume, huh?” She joked nervously with a glance at her red and black-spotted hoodie.

“It suits you, Buggy,” Oncilla said with a grin, then walked over to the edge of the roof towards where the noise was coming from. Marinette- Ladybug- followed, fidgeting the yo-yo in her hand. “We should get going,” Oncilla added, squinting into the distance. “If there's anything I know, it’s that the damage only gets worse with time.”

“Experienced?” Ladybug asked, looking out over the edge nervously.

“Very. You?”

Ladybug laughed nervously once more. “Only with classroom bullies. This is…”

“Bigger, yeah. But think of it this way,” Oncilla turned to Ladybug and set a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “In a classroom, you're both on equal footing. Out here with villains? The field is bigger, but being Ladybug means your footing is the same, too. And you know what else you have that they don’t?”

“What?” Ladybug asked curiously.

“Back-up,” Oncilla said confidently through a big grin. “Bullies never have many friends, and villains are nothing more than slightly bigger bullies with even bigger heroes to oppose them. Trust me, your Ladyship, we got this. ”

Ladybug’s shoulders relaxed, and a grateful smile spread on her face. “Thank you. Having friends to back you up is always a good choice. Glad to have you as one of mine.”

Oncilla beamed at her. “Let’s head off. I can fly, but since you can’t, I'll stick with you. I've learned my lesson with going in head-first without my team, I won’t be teaching that to you on our first day together.”

“I appreciate it, considering I’m still not used to this yet at all,” Ladybug showed the yo-yo in her hand. “Catch me if I fall again? I don’t think ladybugs land on their feet…”

“‘Course,” Oncilla answered, then pulled a silver staff from behind her back. Not only did she plan to stay by Ladybug, she also seemed to be planning to forego flying so she could keep the same pace. Ladybug appreciated the gesture, and with a toss of her yo-yo and a step off the edge, she was off towards her first ever in-person super-villain, partner close behind.

Their travel wasn't long, though it felt like forever to the poor Ladybug, who was holding any more panicked yells from escaping. She really hoped she would get used to this soon, she really did.

They found their villain near the Eiffel Tower, the large monument clearly being the Akuma’s goal.

“They're trying to get a higher vantage point,” Oncilla fills in as Ladybug notices the Akuma was only floating so high off the ground. One of the Black Cat hero’s feline ears was flicking, cluing the other into Oncilla’s enhanced hearing as well.

As Ladybug turned back to look at the villain, squinting at them, she could have sworn for just a second she heard the Akuma muttering to themself. Maybe she got her hearing enhanced, too, just not as much? She supposed it went along with the themes, really.

“So how do you usually handle this kind of thing?” Ladybug questioned without moving her eyes from the target. She also kept them moving closer, though slower to keep from rushing or alerting the Akuma.

“Observe, strategize, attack, and don’t ever hesitate. Waiting is only good if it lets you get information, otherwise that’s just stalling, and stalling is bad if you don’t want extra collateral damage.” Oncilla was clearly concentrating well on the situation, looking and sounding perfectly in her element. Ladybug felt out of place, but she still held to the hope that she could fill her new role without any classic Marinette-clumsiness getting in the way.

“Observe…” Ladybug mused. “I saw earlier from my own, uh, high places, that all the glowing street parts popping up are a big, connecting map. The roofs of some buildings are even getting marked with icons.”

“Oh, I noticed that too, a... friend pointed it out to me,” Oncilla nodded. “But why turn the whole city into a giant map?”

Ladybug shrugged. “Maybe they got lost, couldn't find a place to ask directions?” She tapped her chin, thinking more. “I also saw a few odd things while I was swinging around. A few miscellaneous places had markers on them, almost like pins in a personal map rather than existing landmarks. They could be caused by the Akuma’s personal interests in those places?”

“Sounds reasonable. But in that case, they already know the layout of the city. Again, why a map ? Maybe...”

“They're tracking something?” Ladybug filled in.

“Exactly!” Oncilla snapped and smiled at her. “Maybe a bit more like a GPS system. Or a treasure hunt. They don't know where the thing they're looking for is, but they know it’s going to be marked on the map. So, they need to get somewhere to be able to see the map best.”

“Like a really tall tower in the middle of a lot of shorter buildings,” Ladybug finished, then looked onward, past the Akuma, to the Tower itself.

“Let’s intercept them at the base,” she suggested, “If we can't stop them there, we can at least follow them up and see where they go from there.”

“Smart,” the other replied. “Let’s go.” And with that, Oncilla was running and pole vaulting towards the Tower, skirting far around the Akuma to avoid notice, Ladybug close behind with her yo-yo.

The two heroes got to the base of the Eiffel Tower before the Akuma did, though not by long. However, the Akuma seemed not to notice them, eyes locked on the upper levels. That is, until a violet glow ringed their mask, and their eyes snapped downward to the duo, before their previously pensive expression warped into a cold sneer.

“The Ladybeetle and Black Cat! You finally arrived!” The Akuma spoke loudly, impatience thick in their tone.

The two dropped into defensive stances at the recognition, Ladybug’s more sloppy and unpracticed than Oncilla’s. Ladybug thought to herself that she should really take more fencing classes as Marinette. Maybe Kara and her friends could assist, too? Not the time to think about this! She self reprimanded, turning her focus back to the villain.

“What about us?” Oncilla taunted, bringing the focus of the Akuma to her.

“I am Atlas, and in exchange for your Miraculous, I shall be able to find what I have lost with the gift I have been granted. So hand them over.”

“Yeah, no,” the Black Cat wielder continued, “These aren't toys to trade like Halloween candy. We keep them, and you get lost.”

"No! Give me your Miraculous and get out of my way so I can get back to finding my things!" The Akuma bellowed at the heroes.

"I'm sorry Atlas, but we really can't do that," Ladybug chimed in, looking conflicted. She wasn't used to this, it was only her first time as a hero, let alone negotiating with a super-villain or a possessed civilian. Yet, there was something here she did know how to do.

"But!" She interrupts the Akuma as their face contorts into a deeper scowl, their body crouched and coiled, ready to jump at them. "But, maybe we can help?"

"Help?" Atlas became confused, and the butterfly-shaped glow returned. They waved it away with a shake of their head, "Quiet, Hawk Moth, maybe she can help you with this, too."

"Yeah- Yes! I can try to help, what is it you lost, maybe we can look for it." She glanced back to the other hero, making sure she was on board. Oncilla shrugged, relaxing from her previous stance and restraining herself from jumping right into fighting.

The Akuma looked thoughtful before answering.

"Well, at first, I just lost my pens,” the Akuma recalled aloud. “But then..." Their expression contorted in pain as they remembered their moments that led to their Akumatization.

"I lost a lot, actually," they amended. "Today was rough, a lot went bad. I just wanted to relax and work on my calligraphy when I was finally home. But I couldn't find my pens, or my backups... God, I found my good paper with spilled ink! " Their voice rose again, the anger and frustration growing and radiating from them like a toxin. Ladybug kept herself from recoiling and held herself as steady as she could, listening.

"I'm probably the one who spilled it when I left this morning, hell, I probably forgot my pens in the locker when I emptied it, or on the subway like a freaking idiot . I keep doing things like this, losing everything . I can't keep anything straight, I can't remember anything right, I can't do what's expected of me! " Tears streamed down their cheeks now, and their cries had risen to a yell.

"I need everything mapped out for me because I'm useless without that!! So just, HELP ME , or GIVE UP and GIVE ME THE MIRACULOUS!! "

The butterfly glow returned, and only a split second of unheard prompting had the sorrowful and angered Atlas attacking the heroes off-guard.

The two heroes jumped apart, dodging the first attack. Oncilla was quick to engage Atlas in  close combat while Ladybug recovered herself.

The fight moved away from the newer hero, and in an attempt to get herself closer, tossed her yo-yo into the beams of the Tower. It stuck and pulled her up, but she failed to get it back down, and ended up hanging from the string a few meters in the air. Looking around to see if there was anywhere for her to safely fall to, she realized, even if it wasn't much, she could see things better than from the ground.

“Oncilla!” Ladybug called out, and saw the other hero’s feline ears twitch towards her in acknowledgment. “I need to get higher, I have an idea! Can you handle them for a minute more?”

“Of course!” came the response. “Easy peasy, lemon squeezy, I got this! Go!”

With a quick, hard tug, and another throw of the yo-yo as she fell, Ladybug was heading up the Eiffel Tower.

As she swung to the peak, she called out, “ Lucky Charm! ”

#Borne of the Stars #maribat #Krypto-Mari AU #marinette dupain cheng #kara danvers #miraculous ladybug #dc super hero girls #black cat kara #kryptonian au

[swistrikova-blog]

Cafe ’ Magick

Lacy left pre-calculus exhausted. She desperately needed some coffee to stay alert while she finished polishing the final paper for her creative writing class. Her muse was wavering since her best friend left school. Amanda was pregnant. Lacy was depressed.

Walking the familiar streets of New Town, her feet moved as if on autopilot to her favorite Star Buckles Café. Every Wednesday evening, she would write, and people watch while polishing off her favorite toffee flavored latte. Phone in hand as she traveled, she noticed her battery was almost dead and the door handle to the coffee shop refused to budge. She stepped back and noticed a huge “closed for remodeling” sign. “Shit!”

She quickly Google-searched for another coffee shop and followed her pedestrian enabled GPS. Another Star Buckles was further downtown than she was comfortable with. Her father told her to stay near the school to stay safe. Yet, she was feeling desperate and would risk walking further away from campus to keep a semblance of her routine.

“Walk two blocks South and your destination is on the left.” The GPS voice-prompted and her phone died. She shook her head in disgust.

Lacy missed her friend something awful, her room was too quiet, and she had no one to talk too. Deeply lost in her thoughts she missed the left turn and kept walking South. After four blocks she realized her error, but she noticed a cute little coffee and tea shop to her right and headed for it.

As she entered Café Magick, a small smile graced her lips at the cute French Apothecary theme of the shop. An old-style bell chimed when she opened the door and the hip clothing and hairstyles of the customers seemed at odds with the homogenous conventions of her usual haunt. "What is this place?" She thought. A larger smile graced her face when she noticed the cutest girl in her writing class working the coffee machine.

Lacy slowly made her way to the counter fascinated by the décor of the place and the calm mood it elicited inside her. “Kristin, hi!”

The five-foot-five twenty-something was wiping down the coffee machine. Spiky dark brown hair with purple tips, vivid blue eyes, and a right eyebrow piercing looked up and threw Lacy off guard by the smile that radiated through her entire face. “Hi. Lacy right? You are in my writing class.”

Lacy giggled awkwardly. "Yes, I am. I have never been here before. I usually go to Star Buckles off Main Street, but it’s closed." 

Kristin looked offended. “Pfff, this place is way better than that shithole. What can I get you?” She pointed to a chalkboard. “Those are today’s specials.”

Lacy rubbed her chin in thought, her cute long blond hair bouncing slightly. “Um, I think I will try a medium lavender-vanilla latte with soymilk on ice, please. I have never had lavender in my coffee before.”

“Coming right up.” Kristin smiled again. “Why don’t you pick a seat. This place will fill up soon.”

"Thank you," Lacy said.

 She quickly found a cozy little nook near the front window that two women had just vacated. This was already her favorite spot in the store. The bay window next to her seat offered her a view of the various colored apothecary bottles on the window shelves. She could see the world outside and had a complete view of the patrons inside of the shop. She pulled her laptop, pen, and paper out while Kristin hand-delivered her coffee.

“Let me know if you need anything else.” She said and sauntered off.

The environment was fueling Lacy’s creativity and the finishing touches on her paper went perfect. Not long after she saved then emailed her final draft to her professor, a hoard of drag queens entered the store in all their flamboyant and boisterous glory.

The scene before her opened her eyes to the subtle rainbow items, the predominant women, and the drags queens. "Oh my God, I am in the gay district," she thought. She opened her word processor and wrote, and people watched, and her muse hit her with a wave of ethereal inspiration.

Night had fallen, and the shop was slowly emptying. Kristin walked over to Lacy. “Hey, you looked so busy earlier that I didn't want to bother you. I thought you would like some water and, just so you know, we are about to close soon.”

“Thank you!” Lacy sucked down the water and swished some inside her mouth. “I have to admit something. Lavender is the worst tasting stuff to put into coffee.”

Kristin laughed. “Isn’t though. You should have asked for a new drink.”

Lacy’s hazel eyes peered into Kristin’s. "I guess I am not used to complaining. My dad’s motto is "suck it up buttercup," so I usually do.”

Kristin sat down. “Well, buttercup next time you are in here I will buy you a coffee to make up for that one deal?”

Lacy shot out her hand to shake the brunettes. “Deal. I have another problem. My phone died and I have no idea how to get home from here.”

“If you want to wait, I can give you a ride back to the dorms. Just give me fifteen more minutes to wrap up.” The barista moved to the counter and asked, “how do you like the gay district?”

Lacy moved closer so they could talk. “I love it! My muse came back to me tonight. My roommate and best friend left two weeks ago, and I have been miserable. Then my favorite coffee shop was closed, and I thought things could not get any worse.”

“Don’t forget about the nasty lavender coffee.” Kristin winked.

“Ha! Yep, that too. But truthfully tonight has felt like a door has opened, and my life will take on a new path. Getting lost and finding this place seems like fate to me.”

Kristin locked the front door and guided Lacy out the back to the small reserved parking lot to her car. A black shiny two thousand something Camaro sat under a bright streetlight.

Lacy squealed. “Is that your car?”

“Yes, it is.” Kristin smiled proudly.

“Please tell me it has a V8 in it.” Lacy gently rubbed the passenger door. “My father and I love car shows.”

"Could anyone drive a muscle car without one?" Kristin scoffed. "She has a 350 and a stick."

Lacy stared at Kristin for a moment before asking. "Are you single?"

"Yes, I am."

 Lacy grabbed her chest and slide into the leather seat. "Be still my heart… this just may be the best night ever!"

#Erika Shadow @shadow_erika

[toraberaa]

“Out of this world!”  those were the words that I uttered after witnessing the impeccable beauty of Mt. Ijen.

Mt. Ijen is not just an ordinary mountain. It is a volcano. And not just an ordinary volcano but an active one. It is a stratovolcano which sits 2,799 meters above sea level (9,183 ft). A hazardous volcano that emits toxic fumes and a home for highly acidic lake.

Literally, it was a “hell” and figuratively speaking as well. My hike was hellish. There were too many struggles I faced. I know that without these hardships, the story that I would tell will be definitely lame. Kidding! Nevertheless, I overcame it and I was rewarded with a beautiful sight. I saw a “heaven”. It was a bizarre feeling. I’ve never seen so sublime in my life. It’s a mixture of apocalypse and nirvana. A violent act of nature. Many of the locals said this phrase “Eye on Heaven, Foot in Hell”.  It’s amazing how these two places coincide. How God beautifully designed it.

With that said, I entitled this as “Where Heaven and Hell meets”

Day Minus Zero

It was August 6, 2018 when I left Bali. A day after magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit it. I thought on myself that it was far from the epicenter thus, it was much safer to go on high areas. I was worried that there would be a tsunami at that time. Nah. Who was I kidding? I just surfed earlier on that morning and the real reason was, I scheduled to go on that day based on my plan. The D-day.

It was hot and sunny in Bali and for few hours and kilometers away, I was welcomed by drizzle at Banyuwangi. (I will edit this post later to provide info on how to go to Banyuwangi from Bali)

Loooong and winding road

Approximately 5 hours of bus ride, I arrived at Ketapang port at 8:30 PM. There were only few people around and it feels like it’s already late at night. It was difficult to hail a taxi or even an ojek (motorcycle taxi). No one shows available too in Grab. I went to convenience store and asked around. Some can’t understand English. Somehow I could tell that they understood what I’m trying to convey and they were willing to help. They referred me to a cab who knows a little bit of English and said repeatedly “House stay?” I said “Yes. Mango home stay” and hopped in. I hoped we were at the same page after I confirmed. I checked on my GPS and it was a relief that he knows where we were heading.

I arrived at Mango Tree House Home Stay and I paid him 40.000 IDR.

The Mango Tree House Home stay

“Philippines?” Mr. Arif, the owner of the house, greeted me. I acknowledged him with a nod. He said he was waiting for me. As we entered the house, he asked me again “Tea or coffee?” “Coffee will do.” I replied.

While he was heating the pot, he showed me my room. It doesn’t have an air condition but it have an electric fan. It’s okay since it was cold. The room have also a single pillow and a bed. That’s it! You get what you pay for. (By the way, the room was only 65.000 IDR) The room was just good enough for an overnight. After all, I just came here for Mt. Ijen.

House Special!

Mr. Arif served the coffee and we just had a conversation. We talked about my experience in Indonesia, difference of our countries (because Indonesia and Philippines were kinda the same) and other stuff. He had a good sense of humor and very entertaining. A moment later, another guests arrived. Mr. Arif introduced the new guests to me. They were a German couple who came from Probolinggo, just after the Mt. Bromo tour. He said I would be joining them for the Mt. Ijen tour tonight as well as the two Italians who arrived earlier than us. And guess what, they were also a couple. (Not jealous. lol!) Mr. Arif told us that he was still waiting for the French guy to arrive. I was hoping. Not that I wanted to be a fifth wheel but it must be a minimum of 6 persons to avail the package to Mt. Ijen.

As the night getting late, Mr. Arif suggested to take quick dinner near the home stay. The German couple decided to take a rest while I took a quick dinner at warungs (a small family owned business restaurant).

Solved! My dinner for 15.000 IDR only

The tour will start by 12 AM. It was 10 PM already. I went back to the home stay and took a quick nap.

V

I woke up exactly 11 PM. I packed up for the things I needed — headlights, gloves, jacket, camera and etc. Checked! I went to the living room and I didn’t saw yet the Italians and Germans at the living room. Maybe I was too early? I guessed I was really excited for this tour (which was true). I wished I stayed a little longer in bed.

I saw new faces in the living room. The French guy was already there, along with two lovely gals who were also French. He said that he was too tired and he would not go for Mt. Ijen tonight while the two gals were scheduled tomorrow.

We had a little chit-chat. Yes, only a little. They were talking in their native language. Since I can’t understand them, my mind wandered and I imagined The Little Prince. (LOL!) The younger lady (too bad, I couldn’t remember her name) was so considerate as she kept me entertained. She even asked the others to speak in English so I could also join their conversation.

Few minutes passed, they showed up. So it would be just a group of five — 1 Filipino, 2 Germans, and 2 Italians. Good thing that Mr. Arif was really kind. He didn’t want to disappoint us. Instead we avail the package tour from the agencies, he would be the one who will drive us to Mt. Ijen.

The Road to Mt. Ijen

From the start, it was already a challenge, the weather condition was not that good. It’s drizzling. We were starting to doubt if we could see the blue fire tonight. Blue fire is one of unnatural phenomenon that is happening in Banyuwangi. I believed this was also the reason why travelers would go here. Mr. Arif said that “We can’t tell. It’s nature.” He seems to have a good point. After all, nature is really unpredictable. But he also made our hopes high and said “But you will go above the clouds, so it will not be raining.”

“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.” – Zig Ziglar

Around 12:30 AM, we leave at the home stay and drove towards Mt. Ijen. It would be a long drive for about an hour. I sat at the front seat while the others continue to rest at the back seats. I can’t catch some nap even I wanted to. Plus, I sat next to Mr. Arif. I should keep him a company and needed him to stay awake. With this, I just witnessed how difficult the roads to Mt. Ijen.

Excessive moisture in the window.

It had a zigzag road. For a few moments, the roads turned to a jungle with no lights on the road — trusting only the headlights that the car provides. The road also became muddy due to the weather condition. As we went higher, the fogs appeared. Mr. Arif wiped the windshield every time as the window had moist. I’m very glad that Mr. Arif was a skillful driver and knew the road.

The Base Camp

We reached the Base Camp at 1:36 AM. Mr. Arif handed us gas masks. After that, Mr. Arif called me and told me the best tip ever. “This is the only tip I can give to you. At the counter, say “Satu” (it means one) and just give 10.000″.  We both knew that I looked like an Indonesian. The price difference from foreigner to locals was 90.000 IDR. Good guy Mr. Arif!

Mr. Arif guided the others and I headed to the ticket office alone. I needed to be alone to pull this trick. When I got there, I followed his advice. I confidently said “Satu!” as if I spoke a magical phrase “Open sesame!” in One Thousand and One Nights. However, the ticket officer said something I didn’t know. I repeated “Satu!” but the stare of the officer didn’t quite look good. (Uh-oh! Busted!) Our plan didn’t worked out. The ticket officer went outside and that moment I thought I would be penalized or could be worse. But he just pointed me where I should buy. He meant “Where the foreigners should buy”. Whew! I think this was not the first time it happened to them. Some also tried this scheme perhaps. But what embarrassed me more was when he spoke to me and I tried to push a little harder saying random Indonesian words that I learned. I believed in his mind you would read “Nice try!”. (LOL!)

I went back to our group and paid the foreign price. “What happened?” the group questioned. I reported and I said “I think he was asking for smaller bill. I saw the ticket it was only 5.000 IDR. Maybe it’s something with my accent too.” Mr. Arif said that someone might already overheard us and tipped the officer. “Too bad.” Mr. Arif responded with a chuckle and patted my back. “It’s okay!” I replied. Well, it’s actually fine. No regrets. Although the price difference were very significant, to be honest, spending 100.000 IDR was already cheap for the exchange for what we would discover later. (I’m telling you now that it was very worthy after I finished the hike.)

Jump Off

We started at 1:58 am. This was where the real struggle began. First, it was cold. Maybe because we were already in high altitude and rain also contributed. They said that the temperature sometimes drop from 15°C to 10°C. Second, it was dark. Pitch dark. It was nice that I bought a headlamp since it was not included in the trip. Third, we have no tour guide either. Even though if we avail the package, the tour guide was excluded. Mr. Arif told us that it wasn’t required and we don’t need to. “Mt. Ijen trail had only one trail — where you enter is where you exit. Just follow the crowd and you will not get lost.” He was right. There were many people who were also hiking. These people were not only tourist. Some were just local people — guides and miners. Yes, the sulfur miners. And so on and so on.

The gates were already open.

Our group, the Mango Tree House party (I made that up inside of my head), agreed that we could walk together instead doing by yourselves. While walking, I introduced myself and started a conversation. The name of German couple were Patrick and his girlfriend (Sorry! I forgot the name!) And the name of Italian couple were Andrea and her boyfriend. (Yes…I also forgot the name.) The Italian couple didn’t talk too much. It was Patrick’s girlfriend who talked to me a lot. That was why it was a shame to forget her name. (If you ever found my blog and read this. Let me know so I can apologize.).

Along the way, we saw some locals who had a push cart. This is what they called “Human Taxi”. Some says it costs around 400.000 IDR in exchange that they would take you to the top.

The Struggle is Real

Few minutes later, I felt that I’m having difficulty to walk. Besides that it was still raining and that makes the terrain slippery. But because I surfed before I went here, it’s now paying toll on me. I felt the pain in my upper body and I got blisters on my toes. Although minimal, I felt the irritating pain every time I took a step. I was thinking why I did that knowing that I would hike later. Nevertheless, the show must go on. And by speaking, while hiking, I still managed to document or video myself.

We saw a shed. I took some minutes to rest, while others went to toilet. Some also put layers on their body. This was supposed to be our last stop, and we should moved all the way from the top..well..uhmm let me repeat that. This was supposed to be “their” last stop. Because for me, it’s not. As we back on track again, I felt now the fatigue and every steps were now heavy. My heart was pounding like a jack hammer. I was leading before on our group (excited too much) and now I was lagging behind. Their stamina was fascinating. I knew I haven’t had a good rest just like them. That’s what I told to myself just to fool my mind.

“You are in the cottage”

We arrived at the “cafeteria”. I stopped again and took a rest for a while. It was my life saver! I was a fool that I forgot to brought water. If there’s no store available, I might desperately beg someone to give me some water. After I bought a bottled water, I gulped it immediately. As I checked my group, they were nowhere in my sight. I lost them and I think they didn’t notice me. That’s why I said that was our  their last stop because I realized they didn’t took a break here.

I proceeded even without them and just a few moments later, the nature called me. I wanted pee. I don’t know if there would be another stop after the cafeteria. I don’t want even to go back there. I went astray and I did the “tabi-tabi po” style (common Filipino culture) and asked Mt. Ijen for forgiveness. Thank goodness it was pitch dark.

To the Summit

We needed to be on top quickly. It’s because blue fire only show itself in darkness. This was also the reason why we needed to hike at midnight. It would not be longer visible once the sun had risen.

I moved quickly as I needed to catch up with Mango Tree House party. I hoped that at some point I would see them. And just when I thought. They were there, waiting and searching for me. I heard from afar “It is him?” as I went closer to them. I saw their faces with a sign of relief. All of them were worried about me. They asked if I’m okay. I answered them that I’m fine and I apologized to them. I suggested that they could continue without me. I don’t want to become a burden or the reason why they will not see the blue fire. Still, Patrick’s girlfriend insisted “No, you can tell us if you want to have a break. We will wait for you. Okay?” Isn’t she sweet? (It was really a shame that I forgot her name. I wish one day, I will remember it.)

When we got back on track again, she noticed that I’m running out of breath and curiously asked me “Do you smoke?” I honestly replied “No, I’m just fat.” and she laughed.

I stopped recording and documentation for a while to save some energy.

MDPL means meter dari permukaan laut which literally translated as meters above sea level (MASL)

We were already walking for about 2 hours from the start. They said that 3 hours was the average time to reach the top. I felt we were already near. I saw already the caldera and the trail changed to flat terrain. At 3:26 AM, we finally made it to the top.

To the Dragon’s Nest

Actually, to went down close to the crater was prohibited. Only the workers (sulfur miners) were allowed. Not to mention that it was dangerous, but it was also slippery at that time. However, many of the visitors ignored this warning and continue their way to the crater. It was at your own risk. We talked to each other if we wanted to continue. It was early to go back and we decided to continue our way.

The trail going down was very narrow. At least one person could fit in. There were no hand rails. One wrong step and you would fall. Take note that the terrain here was rocky. To jump or skip would make stones or rocks fall.

We, the uninvited guests, were attacked by the vile stench of Mt. Ijen halfway down the steep trail. It was an acrid and sour smell. From here, we wore our gas mask. This made hard for me to breathe.

This was the time, Patrick and his girlfriend turned around and decided to go back.  I was behind them and I could tell that they were having a difficulty going down. They said it was very dangerous and they don’t wanted to risk it.  I didn’t persist. They wished me good luck and I replied them to take care. (Later, when we were on our way to house stay. Patrick was vomiting along the way and got sick. It was a good call for them to turned back.) 

As for the Italian couple, who were just right behind me. I saw that they hired a guide who gave them a helping hand when descending. They were now in good hands and we parted away from each other as I had to do breaks. So from here, I did it on my own.

The Devil’s Gold and the Ijen Warriors

I saw sulfur miners as I moved closer to the crater. According to some, these sulfur miners carries a load for about 30-50 kg (60-110 lbs) for each basket. If you ever saw them along the way, please stop for a while and give way. I also noticed that some of them didn’t have proper equipment, they didn’t wear gloves and gas masks. Despite the dangers and the risks they could encounter, as I heard, most of them went twice on a single day to doubled their sulfur mine. And you may probably wouldn’t believe that the cost of their tough grind is only 800 IDR per kilo.

These sulfur miners were the real mutants. Where did they get their superpowers? This probably one of the toughest job in the world! With their amazing feat, they have earned respect and fascination on the tourist. Some of them tried to carry the loads or took some photographs with them and leave a small tip. Some gave things like cigarettes which they said to be their favorite, which was kinda ironic. While some of the sulfur miners created souvenirs for extra income. These were shaped sulfur which comes in different shapes and size with a cost of 10.000-50.000 IDR. I bought a teddy bear shaped sulfur for 20.000 IDR for keepsake and to helped them. Please don’t haggle anymore.

The yellow ore is the sulfur. This is already extracted from the volcano.

Behind me is what they called “Devil’s Gold” where the sulfur miners risked their lives for these.

The Heart of Mt. Ijen

I arrived at the crater at 4:15 AM. They were already a lot of people waiting for the blue fire. As I stood on the ground and took a rest, I saw people who were still going down. I was fascinated to saw the alternating lights, blinking and flickering. Looked back how far that I got just to arrived here.

What I saw afterwards was more fascinating than this. As I extended my sight upwards, I saw the illumination of the moon and the brilliant stars. I saw the Milky Way and a glimpse of the universe. What a lovely sight to see. I stared for a while and made me forget the exhaustion even just for a second.

I was worried if the blue fire would appear tonight. So I looked around for the other spot. And I finally saw the blue fire.I said “This is it?”  A stranger replied “Yeah, it’s the blue fire”. Deep inside I know it’s the “blue fire”. A fire that was blue. But it’s not what I pictured based on what I Googled and it was just a small one. It looks like the one you could see when you light up a denatured alcohol or a flame in your stove. At that time, my headlamp was still on. But even after I turned it off, I appreciated it somehow.

The Eccentric Blue Fire

11 minutes passed and the blue fire finally appeared. The one that I was expecting. We were all in awe. All of us in crowd said “Wow!” in chorus. I moved closer to the blue fire. We all know that the blue flame was the hottest and the most intense part of a fire. They said that it could be at 600°C yet I can’t feel hot nearby the blue fire. I haven’t thought of this at that time. I was overjoyed I guess. But I admitted that I was reckless at that time.

I stopped recording and just watched the marvels of the world.

There are only two places in the world that the blue fire can be observe — Iceland and Indonesia.

While Indonesia is just close to Philippines, it has also a larger blue fire area compared to Iceland.

It looks like a lava, that’s why most of the people mistakenly called it as “blue lava”. The flames were so pure and so mystical. It was like a heart of Mt. Ijen, burning so brightly indicating its life force. Once the flames go out, it would lose its appeal. Eventually, that happened.

The Blue Acid Lake

After some time, they extinguished the fire and we were now enveloped in toxic fumes. This was the time our gas masks became really useful. These smokes were very nasty. Even with our gas masks on, I could still inhale the smoke that I needed to stop my breathing for a while. It was also irritating to the eyes. It singed that made our eyes teared.

As the show already finished, like what I said earlier, some people started to climb back. Even we were engulfed by smoke, I chose to stay for several reasons. They were still people going down. With the trail so steep and it’s still dark, I was worried about the traffic and there might be falling rocks or debris. I might also lose my balance and fall. If I stay, it would be a perfect time to recover and saved some strength. To add, it’s too early to went back. I wanted to see the blue acid lake. I have checked where the blue acid lake located. It was still dark at that time and I’m unable to appreciate its true beauty.

I looked for a spot and hid behind a big rock. At least, it would protect me from toxic smoke. In order to survive until sunrise, I needed to stay low, curl down, closed my eyes, and stopped my breath.

Around 5:43 AM, as dawn washed the darkness from the sky, the blue acid lake was revealed to be an enchanted beauty. I have seen similar turquoise blue water in Kawasan Falls at Cebu, Philippines and Kuang Si Falls at Luang Prabang, Laos but this was an exception. It was not the type of waters you want to dive into.

It was deceptively beautiful!

Mt. Ijen is also known for the World’s Most Highly Acidic Lake. (Hitting two birds in one stone) According to research, it has a pH lower than the battery acid or almost zero.

I wished I could stay longer to admire the acidic lake. However, I already ran out of luck and the toxic smoke was slowly engulfing us. I couldn’t take it anymore and my body was now reacting to it. Short-term exposure to highly concentrated levels of toxic smoke could be deadly. It could lead to breathing difficulties, may burn the lungs, corrode the skin and can even melt your teeth. Yikes! It’s time to go back.

After Dark

It was 6:37 AM when I reached Mt. Ijen’s peak again. This time, I was greeted of an awe-inspiring sight. The sun light slowly gleaming the caldera. The sky was deep blue and the cloud was the same height as where I stood as if my hands could reach it. The cold wind blew so strong you could hear its whistle. The field became lunar-liked as if I was transported or stepped on another planet. While revisiting the sight of blue acid lake and smoke came from the sulfur, it somehow reminded me of the movie “The Planet of the Apes”. So calm yet, destructive. I also like the blending of colors — bright yellow and turquoise blue.

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I never had this scene in my entire travel. This was what the philosophers called “the sublime”.

Totally out of this world!

Below was a short impromptu documentary that I made. Enjoy! 🙂

Sometimes, the most phenomenal things in life require a little danger, and climbing Mt. Ijen certainly is one of them.

Mt. Ijen – Where Heaven and Hell Meets "Out of this world!"  those were the words that I uttered after witnessing the impeccable beauty of Mt.

#acid lake #adventure #Asia #banyuwangi #blue fire #blue flame #devils gold #gilimanuk #heaven #hell #hike #Ijen #Indonesia #kawah ijen #ketapang #lunar #Mango Tree House Home stay #merapi #mountain #mt. merapi #natural park #out of this world #SouthEast Asia #sulfur #sulfur miner #travel #trek #vlog #Volcano #world

[huesofthemorning]

Yours Truly, a Friend: Chapter 2

Pairing: NozoEli, NicoEli, eventual NozoNicoEli

Words: 3300

Summary:  Nozomi knows well of friendships lost, but it’s time she learned of friendships gained. A simple letter from thousands of miles away can be the start of everything.

Notes: The next chapter, as requested by several people. I’ll make an attempt to continue and finish this story, but unfortunately I can’t promise anything

Prologue | Chapter 1

Dear Eli,

How’s Japan treating you so far? Two weeks in, and surely you’re a pro already! How is it? Are you finding your way around okay? Has anything exciting happened yet? Are you remembering to take your shoes off when you get inside? That’s important, ya know! As for me, I’m nearing the end of my current project, I’m sad to say. I’ll miss the girls when it’s over. And I guess I’ll have to find a new job, huh? The trials of adulthood never end.

It’s strange, though… I feel like I’m right on the edge of something. The edge of a cliff, perhaps? And it’s a long way down to the bottom, but there’s a bridge I could take… I just have to be brave enough to take that first step. Or maybe I’ve already fallen? Maybe I’ve caught myself on a ledge, unable to move, and there’s a hand reaching out to me from above. Should I take that hand, and risk slipping and falling farther, or should I stay where I am, stuck but safe? Surely the reward for getting out must be far greater than the risk.

What do you think? Have you ever felt this way? Is my imagination getting away from me?

Lots of love,

Nozomi <3

~*~

Eli liked to think of herself as someone who was composed, someone who could adapt flawlessly to any situation with grace. She had cultivated that persona for years, holding her head high and hiding all traces of bewilderment she might feel when the world throws her for a loop. She had mastered the art of it all – or so she had thought.

“I’ve been to Moscow a hundred times,” she muttered under her breath, “I shouldn’t be this lost in a city.”

Eli glared at the gps on her phone, then spun in a circle and glared at the buildings surrounding her. People pushed past her on all sides, chattering away; cars flew down the road; even the wind whistling through the tall buildings was deafening. It near overwhelmed Eli, and the knowledge that this was a quiet time of day terrified her.

Already, Eli was missing her quiet life in her small Russian village. Sure, there was nothing to do there, and she had long grown tired of seeing the same faces day in and day out, but at least she could breathe. Even when she managed to find her way back to her apartment, she wouldn’t be able to block out the noise.

“Oh my god, you’re gorgeous,” a voice said.

Well, Eli wasn’t a quitter – except sometimes, when she was, but that was in the past, and she wasn’t going to be like that anymore – and she was simply going to have to get used to it. She just needed some time, is all.

“Hey, do you have a map?” the voice continued. “Cause I think I’m lost in your eyes.”

“Oh.” Eli finally noticed the young woman standing in front of her. She was short, even for the Japanese, and she wore a bright smile that Eli felt she could trust. What had she said? Everyone spoke so fast here – was it something about being lost? That must be it. “Ah, yes, I’ve gotten a little turned around.  Would you mind giving me directions?”

The woman looked surprised for a moment – had Eli said something wrong? – but she bounced back instantly. “Oh, you’re new here! That’s great! I’m Yazawa Nico, just Nico is fine, and I’ll be your tour guide! I’ll show you alllllllll the wonders of Japan, don’t you worry.”

Nico hooked her arm through Eli’s, who for the first time in years found herself unable to keep up with what was happening, and pulled her down the street.

“So! European, right? You’ve got to be, with those blue eyes. What country? My first guess was France, but you don’t sound French, at least I don’t think so. German maybe? Russian? What other countries are over there… Ukraine? Norway? Chile? Wait, no, that’s one of the Americas, isn’t it? I was never very good with geography. Hey! Have you ever thought about dancing?”

Eli gaped at Nico. What had she gotten herself into? At least Nico’s barrage of questions had been said at a slower pace than before, and once Eli pulled herself together she realized she had managed to understand it all.

“Yes, I’m Russian, but I’m actually more Japanese than Russian, it’s just been a while since I’ve been here…” Fifteen years, to be exact. Eli had planned on coming back sooner, possibly for high school, but life got in the way, and now she barely remembered anything about the country. “And I used to dance, but not anymore.”

“Perfect! I knew it the moment I saw you!” Nico nodded to herself, as if acknowledging what a genius she was. She dragged Eli into a random building, sat her down at a table, disappeared, and returned a few moments later with two steaming cups of something in her hands. Nico moved fast, slipping around people and darting through the crowds, and between watching her and breathing in the smell of coffee that filled the small café, Eli was almost dizzy. She took the cup Nico handed her gratefully.

“I forgot to ask what you like,” Nico said, “so I just got hot chocolate, because who actually likes coffee? I mean, my friend Maki does, but she’s a med student and I think an addiction to coffee is required for graduation, so she doesn’t count. Also, what’s your name?”

“Elizaveta Alexandrovna,” Eli said, sipping her hot chocolate and grimacing as it burned her tongue. Nico gave her a blank stare and Eli sighed. Right. Japan. “Eli in Japanese. Ayase Eli.”

“Cool. What’re you doing in Japan, Eli? Visiting? Moving?”

“Moving. I graduated university a year ago, but I couldn’t find any interesting work back home, so I thought I’d try here. Plus…” Eli hesitated a moment, then continued on. “I have a friend here, we’ve been sending each other letters for years, and it’d be nice to finally meet in person.”

“What, you two were pen pals or something?” Nico scoffed at the idea. “That’s stupid. This is the twenty-first century, we have phones and webcams. Use those and you can find out someone’s abandoned you after a week, instead of waiting 3 months for a letter that will never come.”

“What?”

“Anyway!” The odd darkness that had clouded Nico’s eyes vanished as quickly as it had appeared, and she was back to her sunny and dazzling self an instant later. “When are you going to meet this mystery friend of yours?”

“I don’t know… We haven’t really talked about it yet.”

“Seriously? Come on! How long have you two been friends?”

“About ten years.”

“Ten years! And you’re not racing down the streets to throw yourself in their arms? What kind of friends are you?”

“Well… It’s kinda nerve wracking, isn’t it?” Eli gave a sheepish grin. “I like to think I know her pretty well, but talking in person is a lot different than writing. And what would we do? We’ve never had to… do anything together before.”

“You could see a movie? Go bowling? Go to an arcade? An amusement park? Take a walk through the park? Go to the beach? See touristy stuff? Go-”

“Okay, okay, I get it! There’s lots of things to do!” They laughed together, and Eli felt her nervousness ease, just a little.

They left the café a little while later, Nico leading the way to Eli’s apartment. She pointed out various landmarks that Eli tried her best to commit to memory, and talked nonsense the rest of the time. Eli had tuned her out by the end of it, which she felt bad about, but it was exhausting going from Japanese class once a week to full immersion with native speakers. She needed a nap.

“And ta-da! Home sweet home, right?” Nico gestured to the apartment building, which Eli was slowly beginning to think of as hers.

“Yes, thank you Nico. You were a great help.” Eli made her way to the door with relief, Nico following a few steps behind.

“So, hey, Eli, you want to go out with me?” Nico asked, and Eli paused on the threshold.

Did she? She supposed it wouldn’t hurt to have another friend here, especially one in the area. Somehow, she got this feeling that hanging around Nico could lead to more trouble than it was worth, with her impulsive actions… but Eli had had fun, and moving to a new country meant taking risks, didn’t it?

“Alright,” Eli decided. “Message me if you want to meet up, then. My job doesn’t start for another couple weeks, so I should be free whenever.”

Nico grinned, raising her hands up in some weird pose. “You got it!”

~*~

Dear Nozomi,

I ran into the oddest person the other day…

Nico’s words kept spinning around in Eli’s mind. There was no doubt about it: the correct course of action was to ask Nozomi to meet up. She couldn’t imagine Nozomi saying no, and surely they would be able to find something to do. Still, there was that fluttering of her heart that came up whenever she read one of Nozomi’s letters, or whenever she looked at that jar slowly filling up with paper stars, and it made her hesitate.

Eli folded the 484th star, finished the letter, and didn’t write anything at all about getting together.

~*~

Eli’s phone buzzed early in the morning, and she groaned as she opened her eyes to sunlight. Buying curtains was moving up in her priority list. A fan, too, she decided, as she spotted the blanket lying on the floor. She had vague memories of kicking it off during the night, unable to deal with the heat. The phone vibrated again, and Eli fumbled through the clutter piled on her night stand until she found it.

11:03 am, the screen read. Not that early, then, and she couldn’t use jet lag as an excuse anymore. Well, she was technically on vacation, so she was allowed to sleep in. Eli yawned and pushed herself into an upright position.  

“It’s your favorite up and coming idol, Nico-Nii!” the message read, “I compleeeeeeeeeeeetely forgot to ask you something important the other day. Think you can find the coffee shop again and meet me there? You won’t regret it, I promise!”

The gps said the café was a 20 minute walk. Eli gave herself an hour to hunt down the place, and prided herself on getting there in 45 minutes. She bought a chocolate latte and sat down at the same table as before. Nico walked in a short while later, looking almost dressed up in her pink blouse and doodle-print skirt. It was a cute look.

“You actually made it!” Nico said, dropping herself in the chair. “I’m surprised. I thought I’d have to rescue you again.”

“I’m not completely hopeless.”

“Yeah? How long did it take you?”

Eli took a sip of her drink instead of answering and ignored Nico’s smirk. “Anyways, what was that important question you had?”

“Oh yeah! You said you knew how to dance, right?”

“I did, but…”

“What about singing? You have any experience with that?”

“Not really, no.”

“Well, that’s fine. Your accent is a bit thick, but your voice is nice, so there shouldn’t be any problems.”

“Wait, problems with what? What are you talking about?”

“My idol group, of course!” Nico said it with such confidence and energy that Eli almost nodded in understanding before she realized that she still had no idea what Nico was talking about.

“Your… idol group? You mean, like a celebrity?”

“Sure. But idols are better, and a whole lot cuter! I’m aiming to be the number one idol in the entire universe! Me and my friend Maki are forming an idol group together. We’re going to debut soon, but we’re looking for one more member first. That’s where you come in!”

“What? Hold on-”

“You said you’re free for a couple weeks, right? That’s plenty of time to catch up on the dance moves, and we’re almost done with the song, and then we can find time to meet outside of work. Of course, once we make it big, we’ll have to practice full time, so don’t get too attached to your job, okay?”

“Wait, wait, I haven’t agreed to anything yet. Why are you picking me for this?”

“Uh, because you’re hot? And you just have that talented look about you, too. I’ve got a sense for this stuff, you know! I can see it now,” Nico said, stars in her eyes, “your face on magazine covers, the headlines crying out about the new foreign star, Ayase Elizabeth-“

“Elizaveta.”

“Same thing?”

“As same as Nico and Nicole.”

“That’s kinda cute, actually.”

Eli sighed heavily. “Nico, I appreciate the offer, but I’m not interested in joining your idol group.”

“Aw, come on. Why not?”

“Because… because I have enough stuff to do right now, and I’m going to like my new job, and I haven’t danced in over eight years and I’m not planning on starting again.”

“Why not?” Nico asked again, and this time she had a more serious look in her eyes. Still, Eli wasn’t about to open up to someone she had just met, new friend or not.

“It’s complicated,” Eli said, and met Nico’s suspicious look with a firm one.

“Well, fine,” Nico decided after a moment. “But you’ll still come with me to meet Maki, right? I told her I was bringing you over, and she’ll make fun of me if I don’t.”

“I suppose that’s fine, just meeting her…” Even as Eli said it, she had a nagging feeling that she should be saying no. The more distance she put between herself and dance, the better, and this was getting to close for comfort.

“Awesome!” Nico jumped out of her chair, full of energy. “Let’s get going then!”

Eli shook her head helplessly and followed Nico out the door. What had she gotten herself into?

“So, our group,” Nico started, leading the way down the street. She grabbed Eli’s hand as they walked, and Eli almost jumped at the contact. Nico didn’t seem to notice. “Right now, we’re thinking of calling our group BiBi. It doesn’t really mean anything, but it sounds pretty cool, right? We’ve got that one song I mentioned mostly done, and I’m writing lyrics for a second one. Maki’s the musician, except she only plays piano, and who’s ever heard of a classical music idol song? No one, that’s who, so I’ve been helping her play around with some fancy music software. It sounded pretty terrible at first, but I think we’ve finally gotten somewhere! And of course, dancing is easy. Maki could use a little more enthusiasm though. She’s kinda bland sometimes.”

“Uh huh,” Eli said, still distracted by Nico’s hand. Was this what friends in Japan did? Hold hands as they walked down the street? She had so much more to learn than she thought. Normally she’d be bothered by it, but… it was kind of nice, actually. For some reason, it made her think of Nozomi. Is this what Nozomi would do, when they finally met up? Eli still felt a pang of regret for her inaction. Next letter, for sure, she would ask.

Nico didn’t let go of Eli’s hand until they reached their destination. She led the way through the building, past classrooms filled with tired looking students. It was Maki’s university, Nico explained. She had gotten permission from the school to use the auditorium for a couple hours every few days, which was much nicer than Nico’s cramped apartment.

“Sounds like she’s already here,” Nico said, hearing the faint music floating down the hallway. They found her at the base of the stage, completely at home on the grand piano, playing like the rest of the world didn’t exist. They listened quietly, Nico with impatience and Eli with awe at the beauty of it. Maki hit the last few notes with a lingering sadness for the end of the song, and the music faded away. She ran her fingers silently over the key before turning around.

“You’re late,” Maki said, throwing Nico an annoyed look before turning to Eli. “And you’re the new member Nico is dragging into this mess?”

“Yes. I mean, no, I’m not joining your group, I just came because Nico wanted me to meet you, or something…” Eli paused, glancing between Nico’s smirk and Maki’s disinterested look. “I’m Ayase Eli, by the way. Your piano playing is marvelous.”

Maki’s whole expression changed at the compliment, mouth dropping open and eyes widening. She forced her surprise into a frown, but she couldn’t hide her red cheeks. She coughed, turning away and playing with a lock of hair. “Er, thanks. I’m Nishikino Maki.”

Nico laughed. “Oh, man, this is going to be fun. Hey, Maki! Why don’t we show Eli our song? Give her a taste of the idol world!”

“Do we have to? I’d rather do singing warm ups first.”

“That’s boring, I don’t want to. Oh, yeah, speaking of boring things – you find a producer yet?”

“How is that boring? We can’t do anything without a producer. And yes, I think so. My friend says she knows someone.”

“Your giiiiiiiiiiiiirlfriend, you mean?”

Maki turned truly red at that, standing up and stomping her foot. “She’s not my girlfriend, stop saying that!”

Nico practically cackled at that, and even Eli wanted to laugh at the childish display, though she hid her smile behind her hand.

“Anyways!” Nico said, setting up the speakers she pulled out of her bag, “let’s do that song.”

“Fine,” Maki growled, “but just one run through. Then we’re doing warm ups.”

“Sure, sure. Whatever you want.” Nico hopped on stage and gave Eli a bright smile. “Here’s the deal, okay? You said you’re not going to dance again, and that’s fine. I’ll respect that. But you didn’t say that you didn’t want to dance again, so I’m guessing that, maybe, deep down, you actually want to keep going. I could be wrong! But if you truly don’t want to dance again – prove it. If you watch us dance, and you don’t feel any urge to join us, then I won’t bug you about it anymore. But if you do feel that urge, if I see you tapping your foot or singing along – you have to join us. Got it?”

The speech was the last thing Eli expected. She would have to join them? If she showed any enjoyment in their performance, she would have to join them? There was a heat growing in her chest, and as she pushed through her shock, Eli realized she was angry. She’d met Nico three days ago; this was their second interaction; how dare Nico try and control her life?  What gave her the right? Eli had quit ballet because she was a failure, through and through, and that was never going to change. She would never be good at dancing. She would never get better. That’s the way it was, and as much as it hurt, it would hurt even more to pretend there was hope. Did she want to keep dancing? Of course she did. Of course. There was nothing she wanted more in the world, and Nico was treating it like a joke. Like Eli was hiding that desire away because she was scared. Like her soul could be bargained with.

Eli glared at Nico, fists clenched, fury burning in her blue eyes – but Nico didn’t back down. And for some reason, once again, Eli thought of Nozomi:

Maybe I’ve already fallen. Maybe I’ve caught myself on a ledge, unable to move, and there’s a hand reaching out to me from above… Surely the reward must be greater than the risk.

Surely the reward…

Have you ever felt this way?

The anger drained out of Eli.

“Alright,” she said softly, collapsing into a front row chair, “You have yourself a deal.”

#love live #nozoeli #nicoeli #nozonicoeli #LL fic #my stuff #ro fic #i dont think i'll ever write something funnier than eli meeting nico and going #yeah she looks trustworthy #the dramatic irony is great

[footballfinns]

Getaway

Summary: Rachel and Finn get away for a night.

Finn finished putting their bags in the truck and turned it on to get the heat going. It was a very cold morning, but he had hot coffee ready for he and his wife sitting in the cupholders and he would warm it up before she came down. When the truck was deemed warm enough, he turned the engine off once more so he could go up to the apartment and see if Rachel was ready to go. “Hey baby.” He walked into their bedroom. “Ready?”

Rachel had put off stepping out of the warmth if the shower until the last possible minute. The morning was definitely coldest of winter so far and she had to bundle up in a bulky sweater and lined leggings. She was finishing putting her hair up in a bun when Finn popped into the bedroom. “Yes, I am.” Before she moved the living room and her coat, she put her arms around Finn and gave him a kiss. “Thank you for packing up the truck. I'm looking forward to relaxing in front of a fire.”

“I am too. It will be so nice. And the hot tub. It's gonna be a nice and warm night.” He made sure all of their lights were turned off before he led the way back to the parking garage where the truck sat. “I warmed it up but I'm not sure how warm it stayed.” He opened the door for her.

Rachel tried to hide how overjoyed she truly was about this trip. She had saved for months and to see Finn happy was more than enough reward for her. She barely even noticed the cold outside and she sunk into the worn seat of his truck once he'd opened her door. “It's actually perfect.” She buckled herself in. “You know how to spoil a girl.”

He got into the truck and gave her a smile. “I'm the spoiled one!” He reached over to hand her the coffee he had gotten her.

Rachel would have protested had it not been for the coffee. Not that objections would have gotten her anywhere, nor did she need them too. They were both good. What, really, could she argue about in that case. “Thank you.” She blew then sipped, the rich flavor if her favorite blend soothing her throat. “That's good coffee. The perfect start to this trip.”

“I'm glad I remembered whichever one was the one you like.” He said as he began to drive. “You’ll have to GPS it and lead the way, baby.”

Rachel placed her cup between her thighs so she could set the directions on her phone. “I am quite a good navigator when I need to be. We'll be there in…” She waited for the apl to give her an ETA. “Just over two hours in light traffic.” She placed the phone on the seat next to her.

“That sounds good to me. You can find a radio station if you want. Unless you just wanna talk or something.”

Rachel glanced from the radio to Finn. “You know I could talk all the way there. But I won't torment you that way. Besides, sometimes the radio gets you to sing with me.” She turned the knob, tuning until the sounds came out clear and she could hum along.

He rolled his eyes with a smile. “Talking to you isn't torture but music it is.” He said withskin od. He yawned before taking another sip of coffee, his focus on the road.

Rachel glanced in his direction. He was more than capable of getting them to their destination but it occurred to her then that he always drove. And she rarely offered to take on the responsibility of it. “You know, I could take the wheel if you wanted to nap.”

Finn shrugged “I will be okay either way. You can drive if you want to though.”

Rachel was not a fan of driving his truck. It had rhythms that were forever foreign to her and she generally uncomfortable whenever she had to drive it. “Just let me know if you want a break at any point, okay?” Her arm extended as she combed her fingers through his hair. “Also, you'll need to stop being so handsome. It's thoroughly distracting.”

“I will. I kind of like driving. I miss driving everywhere like I did in Lima.” He laughed softly, shaking his head. “I just can't help it.” He said with a playful sigh.

Rachel had never been an enthusiastic driver and the lack of need for it in New York suited her. But she'd never considered that such a trivial thing to her held great meaning to him. “We'll have to go on more drives so you can do this more.” Plus, she was sure he didn't mind being out of the city from time to time. “And I guess I'll have to give you a pass on the other. Especially since you haven't managed to avoid it since the day I met you.”

“That would be cool. Whenever we have some extra money we can just go explore a little bit.” He liked that idea a lot. While Finn was getting used to the city and all the craziness, he still liked to visit quiet places and be away from it all. The city was never a place he considered he would end up until he met Rachel. He glanced at her with a crooked grin. “You're goofy.”

Rachel sat back, quite pleased with herself and her ability to come up with ways to help balance a life in New York out for Finn. “And you're very attractive.” Her hands folded around her coffee again, her lips curving in a smirk as she sipped then went back to the music.

His focus moved back to the road, though he was wishing he could be closer to his wife. When he finished his coffee, he reached over for her hand. “what all do you wanna do while we are there? Just snuggle up in front of the fire and hang out in the hot tub? Should we stop and grab stuff to make dinner there or go out?”

Rachel let an involuntary sigh pass her lips when she felt Finn's fingers slip through her own. “Dinner brought to the room was part of the package. You'll get a nice steak, cooked by a proper chef. So no shoe leather alla Rachel tonight.” She squeezed his hand as she laughed. “And we have a couple's massage scheduled before dinner. That way we'll be nice and relaxed for the evening ahead.”

“Damn, you went all out baby “ he said, genuinely surprised. “I've never had a real massage before…  Just the ones you give me and those just lead to happy endings.” He wait playfully. “It sounds like it will be a really good night.”

Rachel rolled her eyes but maintained a smile. “I figured that if we were going to go there, it should be worthwhile. And who's to say this massage won't lead in the exact same direction? Just not with the person giving it to you.”

“I might be too relaxed.” He joked. “The hot tub on the other hand… You know I can't resist.”

Rachel wanted to throw back that she couldn't recall the last time he was ‘too relaxed,’ but the hot tub came up and she liked the idea of getting cozy with him there. “I do. You are always very open to me in either next to nothing or nothing. A hot tub facilitates that.”

“I do like a naked Rachel.” He joked. “I'm just really excited. This is a really good present.”

Rachel tried to resist the urge to beam with pride, mostly because it centered on her own accomplishments. That was a different Rachel, one who largely existed before Finn and New York. Now, she just wanted to be happy with him and for herself. That was the point of the trip. “I'm thinking of making this our tradition. Instead of regular gifts, we do one of these little getaways.”

“Yeah! We both save up for a couple of nights away. I like that idea a lot.”

“That's what we'll do then. Especially when  you're this happy about it. That's the absolute best gift I could ever get.”

“You know I love getting away and doing new things with you. I couldn't ask for anything better. “

“New things, yes, but also some of your tried and true favorites.” Rachel gave his arm a little push - she was sitting too far away to nudge him - then went back to singing quietly.

He chuckled softly, then just enjoyed the sounds of her singing along to the radio. As Deck the Halls came on, he decided to give her what she knew she loved and sing along with her.

Rachel's tilted subtly toward Finn as he joined at the chorus. Finn singing was one of her favorite things and she could've stopped her own tune just to listen to him. But she didn't want him to stop because she did. Instead, she squeezed his hand.

He playfully sang along with her for a while, until his stomach began to growl and his attention was averted. “How much longer do we have?”

Rachel heard his stomach then looked at her phone. “We have another half hour or so. If you want to stop for a snack, we can.” Rachel parsed the side of the highway for a sign. “There's a gas station restaurant at the next exit.”

Finn thought about it for a moment before nodding his head “let's see what they've got.” He said as he took the exit.

Rachel let him pull off the road, scanning the scene as he pulled into the station. “The restaurant doesn't look half bad, actually.” At least not from the outside. Rachel hoped it would be as clean and welcoming on the inside.

“Yeah? An actual breakfast does sound nice.” He said and parked. He got out and opened her door for her and grabbed her hand to walk he found a booth for the two of them and slid in.

Rachel's relief came when the diner looked much like the one she'd worked at in Lima

Simple but pleasant. She scooted in next to Finn and glanced at the menu after it was offered to her. “A waffle with strawberries and a glass of juice does sound good.”

Finn looked over the menu, trying to decide. “I think I want French toast.” He said and put the menu down just in time for their waitress to approach the table. He ordered for the two of them, then put his arm around her.

Rachel relaxed against Finn after he ordered for them, looking out the window they were seated next to. “It's snowing.” She watched the delicate flakes fall slowly, glazing the ground in a layer of white.

Finn looked over to watch the snow fall. “Good thing we don't have much of a drive left.” He commented, pressing a kiss to her temple.

“This is true. But I bet the snow makes everything more beautiful than it already is.” Rachel looked up at him, smiling. “Strangely, it's putting me in a romantic mood. I'm thinking about making love in front of a crackling warm fire.”

“It is beautiful.” He smiled back at her. “I will be as romantic as you want, baby.”

Rachel let her head rest on his shoulder. “I don't expect you to be anything but what you are. That's more than enough for me. It always has been.”

“Well I want to make sure this trip is worth it for you.” He said softly.

“You're here. That makes it worthwhile for me. You're all I need.”

“Okay baby.” He gave her a kiss and unwrapped his arm from her when their food was placed in front of them.

Rachel missed his arm, but she understood.  He was hungry and two hands usually helped in that endeavor. “I might steal a bite of yours. It looks really good.” As did hers, a fact that was only further verified when she took her first bite.

“Go for it.” He smiled as he began to eat. “How is it?”

Rachel had stuffed a bite in her mouth just as Finn spoke. She had to swallow before she could answer. “Delicious. Yours?”

“Mine is really good.” He grinned. “I'm glad we decided to stop.”

Rachel flicked her fork and snatched a piece of french toast from his plate. “You're right. It's really good.”

He chuckled “I'm glad you think so.” He continued eating until his plate was cleared.

Rachel made it through most of her food before getting full. She had one quarter section left when she nudged the plate toward him. “Want to finish this? I couldn't eat anymore if I tried.”

Finn was always happy to finish off her food and now was no exception. “Yours was really good too.” He pulled his wallet out so he would be ready when the Rachel came with their bill. He handed her cash and got up “let's get there!”

Rachel took the money after slipping her coat back on. She paid and left the change and a little more on the table for a tip. “Yes, let's.” She took his hand and stepped out into the cold again. Luckily, the snow was still light and the truck wasn't far.

Finn opened the passenger door for her and gave her a kiss before she could get in. He walked around the truck to get in and started the engine. “Man, I can't wait to be somewhere warm.”

Rachel was feeling the same way as she leaned back against her seat and directed him towards the resort once again. “We'll be there in no time.”

Finn began to drive, his hand reaching out for her. “Lead the way baby.”

Rachel was glad that the rest of the way entailed a straight drive up the freeway, then one exit and a simple turn. They were parked in front of the lodge before she had time to be tired of being in the car. “I'm going to go check in and get our keys.”

Finn parked in front of the lodge and nodded his head, letting her go by herself while he got their bags ready to take out.

The check-in process was quick and simple and Rachel hurried back to Finn, her coat tucked tightly around her. “We're set and over that way.” She raised a gloved hand in the direction of their suite then hustled that way. “That hot tub is sounding perfect right now.”

When Rachel returned, Finn followed after her with bags in his hands. “It really does. I'll let you choose what we do first.”

Rachel swiped the key in front of the door once they were standing in front of it, her hands feeling cold doing so despite her gloves. “The first thing I need to do is get warm because… it’s freezing.” She felt justified in being slightly dramatic at the moment, especially since the snow was beginning to fall in earnest now.

Finn walked into the room and settled their bags on the floor. “Well we could get in the hot tub or we could lay under the blankets until you're warm.” He suggested.

Rachel had a feeling that both scenarios would do the trick, though lying under blankets would lead to sex more quickly than she’d anticipated. “A nice soak in the hot tub after the drive up sounds nice and relaxing and we don’t have to be at our massage appointment for a couple of hours.”

Finn nodded his head and grabbed his bag to go through it and find his board shorts. “The hot tub does sound awesome. We need to take advantage all we can.”

Rachel had never been a fan of herself in a swimsuit, but she wanted the warmth that the tub offered so she easily got over the bikini aspect of things. She quickly found a black one in her bag, put it on then covered up with a robe. Luckily, the controls were just inside the door that led to a covered deck so staying inside until it warmed up was an option.

He put his board shorts on and wrapped his arms around her as they waited for the tub to heat up. “We need one of these.” He joked as he looked out at the tub.

Feeling Finn’s arms slip around her made Rachel reconsider the blankets scenario he'd pitched at the door, a sudden warmth turning low in her belly. “If only we could fit one on the fire escape.” Turning, her arms came around his neck as she kissed him. “Someday, we'll live in a place where one will fit.”

Finn smiled “I like that idea.” He let go of her to open the sliding glass door and he removed the cover to the hot tub, all of the steam escaping. He climbed the short ladder so he could step in and shrunk into the hot water.

Rachel watched him from the doorway, admiring the way his body moved as he opened the tub. She bit her lip in an attempt to hide a wanton smile before dropping her robe and easing down into the steaming water. “Mmm… definitely what I needed.”

“Me too baby. Thank you so much for this. You knew exactly what I needed.” He moved close to her to put his arm around her.

Rachel moved in close to him, her hip touching his, and sighed again. “We both did. After the past few months especially.” If she let herself, she could rehash all their struggles and the stress of it all. But that wasn't what the trip was about. If anything, it was a celebration of getting through and passed all that. “It's like you said before. We need to focus on us. And that's what this is all about. You and me.”

Finn nodded his head in agreement that after the last few months they needed a break from their regular lives. Things had been rocky to say the least, but they were in a good place now and he knew that bringing up past hardships never helped anything. He turned and kissed her cheek. “That's something I can definitely focus on. Nothing else.”

“I'm sure this swimsuit doesn't hurt your concentration.” Rachel nudged his ribs playfully before tugging at the top, wishing it covered more of her chest. She wasn't sure why - it was just them and he'd seen her in less. But somehow it was easier to be naked. “If you were focused on something else, I might be worried.”

Finn waggled his eyebrows “Of course that's where my focus is. I was trying to show some self control.” He joked. “I like this swimsuit.”

“According to you, your exhibiting it a lot of the time. I'm not sure why but you seem quite taken with me.” Rachel turned to kiss him, testing what resolve he claimed to have. “You do? I think it's a little small. It doesn't cover much of anything.”

Finn's arm moved around her as h kissed her back. “Why do you think I like it so much? If you don’t like it you can just take it off..” He smirked, his hand toying with the strap of her top.

Rachel felt her cheeks blush, though she couldn't tell if it was from the heat of the tub or Finn’s not-so-subtle flirting. “You spend a lot of time trying to get me naked, you know.” Moving, she straddled his hips and leaned against him as they kissed. “Not that the effort goes unappreciated.”

He hugged her close as she moved into his lap. “I can't help it that you're so hot.” He shrugged.

Being back in his arms made Rachel smile, her happiness unabashed. “Well of course. I am in a hot tub after all.” Her fingers combed through his her and her kisses were lazy. “You're just bound and determined to charm me.”

“I'm always wanting to charm you.” He said with a soft laugh. “My wife likes to be talked up.” He moved his kisses down to her neck.

“I really do. Compliments from you have become one of my favorites.” Rachel was quickly distracted from words by the soft movement of his lips against her skin. “Those aren't bad either.”

He lazily kissed her skin, his hand gliding down her back as he did so. “How long do we have before those massages?” He asked, his lips barely away from her skin.

Rachel was quickly becoming the one who had to focus on self control, especially as the warmth of his breath tickled her neck. “An hour or so.”

“Hmm.. That's not very long.” He tried to decide how far he wanted to take things.

“I suppose it depends on what, exactly, you’re looking to do in that time.” Rachel was open to whatever he wanted, though sex in a hot tub wasn’t something she’d ever expected doing.

“You.” He lifted his head to give her a playful grin.

Rachel’s hands drifted from his neck, her nails drawing light paths along his chest then over his stomach. “You were making a convincing point of that before. But I’m curious to see how you proceed.”

He kissed her again, deciding how he did want to proceed. While having sex in the hot tub would probably be hot, he wasn't sure how sanitary that situation would be and he didn't want to make Rachel make that choice so he pulled away slightly. “Let's go inside.”

Rachel was a little caught off guard by his suggestion, and the part of her that became sensitive and self-conscious wondered if she’d done something to turn him off. “We can do that.” The corner of her mouth ticked up before she let her lips settle against his.

“Unless you wanna get this swimsuit off in here..” His hand moved to her chest, just above her breast.

Rachel rolled her bottom lip between her teeth, looking down at the water then back at Finn. “I would but… how often do you think they clean this tub out?”

“That's why I want to go inside.” He nodded with a scrunched nose. “You never know..”

Rachel was relieved by his reasoning as much as she was by the fact that she wasn’t going to be naked in the hot tub. “Okay.” She was still somewhat reluctant to move away from him, kissing him twice more before finally climbing out of the tub and wrapping her robe around her.

Finn stepped out and wrapped himself in a towel, hurriedly stepping back in through the door because the cold air hitting his hot skin was unpleasant. He dried off and got his shorts off so he wouldn't get the bed wet before laying on it. “Okay, come and love me.” He said playfully.

Rachel closed the door to the patio behind them and stepped into the bedroom as Finn was taking off his shorts. “Well, no one would ever accuse you of subtlety.” Stripping out of her to robe and suit, Rachel slid in close to her husband and greeted him with a kiss.

Finn shrugged “you married me. You like it.” He wrapped his arm around her as their lips met.

Rachel would've relented on that point were she not more focused on their kiss than on proving a point. He had a certain roguish charm about him, one that she'd fallen in love with. He didn't have to be poetic or some kind of wordsmith. All he had to do was say the things that made her laugh and feel loved. “Maybe a little.” Her hands were skimming his body again, her nails scratching lightly at his skin.

He let out a low groan as her nails scraped gently along his skin. His own hand moved down her stomach “well I love you.”

Rachel made a quiet sound, his touch stirring a familiar feeling in the place his fingers brushed against. “I love you too, baby.” Rachel’s teeth nipped at his bottom lip, knowing he’d always enjoyed that a little.

He let his hand move between her legs, his finger pressing against her clit. His lips moved against hers in a more heated kiss.

Rachel scooted up against the bed as Finn’s fingers teased her nerves and his mouth covered hers in a hungry kiss. She gripped him tighter as she resisted the urge to push against his hand, her moan escaping in a quiet sound as her tongue searched for his.

Finn could feel her excitement growing as he toyed with her and he let his finger move from her clit to press into her. “You're so sexy.” He whispered.

Rachel had to pull away from their kiss, for air and to whimper at Finn’s efforts. Any restraint on her part were quickly failing as she let her hips lift off the bed and meet his hand. “And you’re talking me up. Not that I mind. You just can’t tease me, baby.”

“I'm not teasing.” He grabbed her hand to bring to his growing erection.

Rachel had gotten a little too wrapped up in what he was doing to her that she had neglected him. Her hand eased around him with his guidance, her strokes pacing to meet that of his fingers. “I see you’ve been enjoying it as much as I have. You’re already so big in my hand.”

Finn sighed as she began to stroke him. “I always do baby. I love touching you.”

“I love you touching me.” The warmth reached her cheeks, but for reasons other than the physical. The word ‘love’ had a way of doing that to Rachel, regardless of the context. The word itself made her feel that way - loved. “I love everything we do.”

“Me too.” He smiled as he pulled his hand away from her so he could move between her legs. “I just love everything about you.” He sat on his knees, his eyes on her.

Rachel’s knees settled around him as he moved between them. It amazed her that she could still feel any level of bashfulness when he looked at her the way he was now. But she was constantly moved by the tenderness she often saw there - or thought she did - and all the little ways he showed her that love existed between them, no matter what they did it in bed. “Like I do you?” Rachel pushed up so she could steal another kiss. “I am so in love with you. Now more than ever. And probably more tomorrow.”

“Then you know exactly how I feel about you.” He placed himself at her center and slowly pushed into her.

Rachel’s head fell back, her lips parting in an ecstatic sigh as he entered her. “So perfect.” Her eyes opened long enough to focus on his, her whole body drawing close to his.

Finn’s pace was slower than usual as he focused on loving his wife more than getting them off. He leaned his head down to press kisses to her neck.

Rachel was getting the romance she’d asked for, that she needed out of a trip like this. She didn’t even need the fire place or any of the extraneous things. Just Finn moving the way he was, and giving her the kind of attention she often craved. “You’re so good to me.” Her body moved with his, her fingers tangling in his hair and running down his back.

He pressed his nose against her neck “You're good to me, baby.. You make me so happy.”

Rachel couldn't remember the last time they'd been like this and she revelled in the calm sweetness of it. “I'm always happiest when I'm with you.”

“Me too. You're the best thing that ever happened to me.” He lifted his head to look down at her.

Rachel felt the warm of a tear creeping to the corner of her eye, her eyes fluttering so that she didn’t turn him off or upset him. Truly, she was moved and instead of crying, she reached up to kiss him. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too, baby.” He said softly, resting his forehead against hers as his hips picked up pace.

The slow build between them was catching up to Rachel and quickly overtaking her senses. She was lifting off the bed to meet his hips, her whole body craving every part of him that touched her.

Finn knew he was going to come undone soon so he brought his hand between them to press his finger to her clit as he let his hips move against her with less reservation.

“Finn…” Rachel couldn’t find words beyond that, her body beginning to quake and unleash as Finn stroked her. Her eyes fell shut as she let go, colors popping behind her eyelids.

Feeling Rachel orgasm triggered Finn’s own release. He sighed as his hips came to a stop. Looking down at her, he gave her a smile.

Rachel’s chest moved rose and fell rapidly, her whole body feeling pliable as she managed to look up at her husband. “That was nice.” Testing her mobility, she moved her arm and stroked his cheek with the backs of her fingers.

He gave her a small kiss before rolling to lay beside her. “It was nice.” He wrapped his arm around her.

Rachel turned into him, her head resting on his shoulder. “You really went all out with the romance. It still gives me butterflies when you do that.”

He laughed softly “I know you like it when I'm like that with you.” He kissed the top of her head.

“I like you all the time but there is something special about when you’re like this, because I know that you put a lot of heart and effort into it. Not that you don’t always but… well, I know it’s easier for both of us to get carried away with the ultimate release. It’s just nice when you step back and take it to another level.”

“Yeah we get caught up in that often.” He said with a laugh. “But I do like it when things are like this too.”

“I’ve always known you to be a closeted romantic. Actually, I like the idea that you’ve only been that way with me.” Rachel turned her head up, smiling at Finn. “And if you haven’t, that’s one of the very few lies that I’ll be okay with.”

“It's not a lie, you are the only one who has gotten this side of me.” He kissed her.

“I had a feeling.” Rachel kissed him back, a soft hum passing between as she moved back. “I am almost tempted to stay right here until we have to leave. If the massage wasn’t already paid for, we just might.” Turning away, Rachel stretched and forced herself to sit up. “We should definitely shower before we go though.”

“A shower sounds good.” he got up from the bed and stretched before heading to the bathroom and starting the shower.

Rachel was slower to get out of bed but she followed Finn in momentarily. It was very impressive, much like everything else in the room was, and not only because they could both stand in it with plenty of room to spare. Rachel made sure to do a full turn once she was inside. “Let’s also have a shower this large at some point.”

“Yeah, I want one too.” He laughed as he leaned his head back to let the water hit his face. “I love you, but it would be nice to be bumping elbows while we shower.”

The space was enough that they could stand under the spray together, Rachel’s hair still pulled back after the hot tub, albeit it a mess after their love making. “Oh? You don’t seem to mind when other parts bump when we’re in the shower.” Reaching for the complimentary soap, she lathered her hands and moved them over his chest, then his abdomen. “I know what you mean, though.”

He waggled his eyebrows with a playful smirk. “I'm just saying it makes things complicated when you tell me no funny business in the shower and then we have to be right on top of each other while wet and naked.” He laughed softly.

Rachel’s head shook, mostly because she hadn’t considered that line of reasoning behind his ‘whys’ when she absolutely should have. “Me saying ‘no funny business’ rarely actually holds up. You say it’s because I’m ‘sexy,’” Rachel interjected air quotes. “But I think it’s because you know that I have very little restraint and you use that to your advantage.”

Finn shrugged, watching her hands on his body. “No comment.” His eyes flashed to hers with a joking smile.

“Hey! We have somewhere to be. We absolutely have no time for whatever is behind that smile of yours.” Rachel tried to curb her smile by biting down on her lip, but it wasn’t possible. He was much too appealing when he was like this.

“I will be good so we can get massages.” He laughed as he worked on rinsing the soap off.

Rachel watched him for a moment before sighing and actually cleaning herself up. “I don’t necessarily like it when you’re good. You’ll need to stop after the massages for… reasons.”

He stood against the shower wall as she cleaned up, shrugging at her words. “I think we both know my patience level doesn't last longer than an hour or so anyways.”

Rachel shook her head as she reached around to scrub her back. “I don’t know. Sometimes your patience lasts longer than that. I mean, it lasted for… two or three months, maybe, when we first started dating.”

“You kept my patience refreshed.” He joked.

It took Rachel a moment to comprehend but she just rolled her eyes, an amused grin holding her lips, when she did. “I think you could've survived without it. Sex isn't everything.”

“It's a lot though.” He said playfully. “I fell in love with you pretty quick so I probably would have waited until marriage honestly.”

“I love that you felt and feel strongly enough for me to think that. But, baby, I don't think I could have put you through that.”

“I'm very glad you didn't. Our sex life is awesome and it was from the start.”

“And I'm very glad that you enjoy it like I do.” Rachel finished washing up then turned to him. “Loving you has always made me hope for your happiness. And when we started, I wanted it to be this special thing we shared. Not in a cheesy way but… I'm a little sentimental at times so sharing that level of trust through intimacy means a lot to me.”

“Well it is still a special thing we share. It's like the best way for us to show how much we love each other.” He gave her a kiss.

Rachel drew in close, her head on his chest once their kiss ended. “It's top two for me. I still like hearing you say it most of all. But you do that a lot when we're...romantically entangled.”

“This is going to sound stupid cheesy, but before you sex didn't mean anything to me. It was just fun and felt good.. But now it means a lot of things to me. I just like being close to you.”

Rachel smiled, thinking back to a time before they'd slept together but were still intimate. Her feelings had been so hurt that things meant more to her than they seemed to him. This moment, and hearing him say what it intimacy meant to him, was quite  gratifying for her. “It doesn't sound cheesy. It's actually kind of perfect.”

He gave her a small smile “We should probably go get dressed and ready for that massage.” He said and stepped out of the shower. He grabbed her a towel before one for himself and dried off. “Babe, do you really have to be like naked when they massage you?”

Rachel accepted the towel from him, tucking it around her body. “You usually are but I'm sure you can leave your boxers on if you want. It's not like they massage that area. Plus, they give you a sheet to cover up with.”

Finn nodded his head, deciding that he would feel out the situation once he was there. “Okay.. We will see.” He walked to the bedroom again to put clothes on.

Rachel hadn't considered that he might be uncomfortable about the massage she bit her lip at the prospect of it. “If you find that it's not for you, that's okay.” She reached some comfy clothes that she could easily slip out of.”

“I'm sure it will be cool. I mean, it's supposed to feel really good. What's not to like?”

Rachel shrugged, not having answer. With as much as she did physically between school and work, having someone work the tension and stress out of her body was ideal. Still, she wished she'd considered his comfort level before making such a uniform choice. “It does but you're not obligated to do anything other than give me all the kisses I want. Just so you know.”

“You already get all the kisses you want.” He rolled his eyes with a smile. “I'm good. We're cool.”

Rachel grinned proudly as she reached for him. “You're right, I do. But you know what they say. Happy wife, happy life. And I think you're happy so those kisses work out.”

“I do love giving you kisses..” He smiled as he gave her a kiss.

“Obviously I love getting them.” As much as she truly did, kissing was a gateway and she definitely didn't want to reek of sex when a stranger was rubbing her back. “But save the rest for later. We should head over.”

“Fine..” He let go of her and grabbed her hand as he headed out of the door, letting her lead the way once they were in the hall.

Luckily, the spa didn't require them to be outside for more than a minute as they moved from their building to the main building. Walking in, Rachel heard the tranquil sounds of a meditative track playing overhead and was met by a smiling receptionist. She gave her name and then took a seat. “She said it should only be a few minutes then they'll call us in.”

Finn sat down and put his arm around her. “Will we be in the same room?” He asked.

“We will be. That's how a couples massage usually goes from what I read before I booked it and I double checked to make sure when I called. So we'll still be close while we relax.”

He nodded his head, unsure why he was even nervous for something so small. “Oh, cool.” He gave her a smile. “Have you gotten one before?”

“Last year, when you surprised me with that spa day on our California trip. I was a little nervous at first because… well, you know I'm not always excited about taking my clothes off. But the lady was super nice. She stepped out so I could take my clothes off and get on the table and cover up so that made things easier.”

“I forgot about that.” He smiled, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “that was a fun trip. Makes me miss warm weather.”

“Very fun.” Rachel leaned into him. “That's the day I asked you to come to New York. Or, well, I said I wanted you there with me and you said you would come.”

“I remember all of that now.” He said with a nod. “That was a good day… it's crazy to think how much things have changed since then.”

“It's like a whole other life that I sometimes can't believe was ours. And I can't believe that decision was such a tug of war for us.”

“I can't either. I mean, I know why we did but at the same time.. I wish we could have just made the right decisions all along and skipped all the craziness.”

Rachel smiled a little as her fingers slipped between his. “That seems the way of it, doesn’t it? We always create bigger problems over small things for ourselves because we’re both stubborn. I have a feeling that’s something we’ll be working on forever.”

“Yeah we both have a tendency to be stuck in our own minds. It will always be something we battle with but we are still good together.. That's what matters.”

“Yes. All the good we bring to one another's lives outweighs the areas where we sometimes fall short.” It was then that a tall, slim woman appeared and waved them back. Rachel stood with her hand still intertwined with Finn's.

Finn stood up after Rachel and followed her into the room where two tables sat. He let go of Rachel's hand to sit on one of them as they were greeted.

The two women doing the massages introduced themselves then explained the process, what they'd be using as far as products, and the order of things. Then they stepped out so Rachel and Finn could remove their clothes and cover up on their individual tables. “Ready?” She kissed him before lifting the hem of his shirt, her logic being that the intimacy of removing each other's clothes might relax him.

Nodding his head, he lifted his arms so she could get his shirt off, then he followed suit by lifting her shirt. He gave her a small kiss before he worked on getting his pants off, along with his boxers and laying on the table. He pulled the sheet up to his back and turned to look at Rachel.

Rachel was glad to see his smile as he finished undressing. She turned after he settled on the bed, purposefully shimmying her hips as she shifted her pants off her hips. Standing for a moment before climbing the table, she looked over her shoulder at her husband and winked. She'd just covered up when the women stepped back into the room.

He smirked as she made a show of taking her pants off and chuckled when the massage therapists entered the room before he could say anything about it. He let his head rest as the woman began to rub oil onto his back, his body relaxing as she began to work on him.

Rachel watched Finn for a reaction, her own ease taking hold a she saw him relax. The hands kneading the muscles of her back didn't hurt matters either. She sighed, her eyes fluttering shut.

Finn let himself get lost in the massage, almost to the point of falling asleep though he fought the urge. “This was a good idea.” He murmured to his wife.

Rachel wasn't fully asleep so she heard Finn mumbling. Opening her eyes, she reached across the small space that separated them to touch his arm. “As good as mine?” She made a quiet sound of amusement.

He turned his head to give her a smile “Yours are the best, baby.” He said softly.

Rachel brought her arm back to rest her chin on it. “You're sweet.” She was quiet again until the woman asked her to turn on her back. Pulling the sheet over herself, Rachel moved around and got comfortable again.

Finn put his head back down, his body giving in to sleep as he was moved to relaxation until the massage was over. He sighed as he opened his eyes. “I don't wanna move now.”

Rachel felt amazing at the end of the massage and thanked the women as they left. She turned to Finn. “Me either. But we have to, unfortunately.” Standing up, she let the sheet fall away as she moved to kiss him. “But we'll have dinner brought to the room and we can chill for the rest of the night.”

Finn sat up just in time for Rachel to reach him. “That sounds perfect.” He smiled as he got up and began to get dressed. “But we are either gonna be naked or in pajamas. I'm done with clothes.” He joked.

“Pajamas until they bring the dinner cart up. After that, all things are possible.” Rachel pulled her pants and shirt back on then took him by the hand. “I might not object to the nudity either.”

Finn finished getting dressed and shrugged “I'm sure you won't.” He said as they began walking out. “Thank you for all of this, baby. It's been really great.”

Rachel nodded in agreement. “It really has been nice so far. But no thanks necessary when I did it for us both.”

“I know, but it was still cool of you.” he opened their door, glad to be out of the cold.

“I am pretty cool sometimes.” Rachel scooted in the door to their room and immediately found a spot on the sofa by the fireplace. She grabbed the throw blanket from the back of the sofa and draped it around herself. “Why can't Broadway be someplace warmer?”

Finn moved to sit beside her and cuddled close. “I know… I'm tired of winter already.”

Rachel winged her arm out so Finn could share the blanket with her.

Finn pulled the blanket over himself and kissed her cheek. “Are you having fun?”

“I am. I always do with you but… it's nice to be away from the tiny apartment and the city and everything. I like not thinking about responsibilities and actually focusing on the important things. Like you, and us.”

“It is nice to just have our little bubble. I wish we could stay for a few days.”

“Me too.” Rachel turned into him, her head resting on his shoulder. “Alas, we are not rich.”

“Our list of things we want when we are rich is getting too big. We are going to have to be really rich. “ he joked.

“Disgustingly so.” Rachel kissed his cheek. “But all I really want is you and to be happy. The other stuff is okay but those things are necessary.”

“That’s all I want to. I just want a good life with you. Maybe kids and a house and stuff someday.”

Selfishly, Rachel hoped the kids would come farther down the road. Ten years, maybe. Until, she'd have Finn all to herself, just how she liked him. “Someday. But which do you want first? House or kids?”

“I don't know.. We couldn't really have a house in the city so it would have be down the road a while.. Maybe kids first.”

“Really? I'm kind of surprised. Not that you're wrong about the house but… wow, kids.”

“Is your answer different?’ He asked with a laugh.

“A little. I mean, I figured we'd wait on kids so a home would come first. But I'm not against kids first.”

“How long do you want to wait?” He asked, wondering how they hadn't had this conversation before.

Rachel paused, contemplating the question. Ten years was her ideal, but she needed to be realistic. And thoughtful. If he wanted children before that, it would be something for them to discuss seriously. “At the very least, I'd need to be done with school. I'd also love to be established before we started having children but… I don't know how long that will be so.” She studied Finn's expression as she spoke. “How long do you want to?”

Finn nodded his head “I don't know, I figured after you've been doing shows for a couple of years we'd be ready. I mean, I'll be steady in my job and you'd be steady in yours. Hopefully we'd be in a bigger apartment.”

Rachel twisted the inside of her lip between her teeth. “We'd definitely need a bigger apartment. I don't think we'd survive a baby sleeping in our bedroom now.”

“We’ll just have to see where we are in a few years, I guess. I mean hopefully we have our shit together a little more then so we aren't fighting and stuff all the time.”

Rachel grew quiet, hating how their fighting was classified as ‘all the time.’ She never thought the fought that much, but maybe they did. “We have time to work on us and to achieve things before babies are a priority.”

“Yeah, we do.” He gave her a smile. “But I do want it someday. I’m glad you do too.”

“How could I not want it with you?” Rachel moves into his lap, her arms circling his neck. “You have shown me what an amazing person you are in these last few years. I can't help but want for another person to experience that on a daily basis.”

He gave her a kiss as his arms wrapped around her middle. “I love you so much. I just want everything with you.”

“I want the same with you. It'll be hard to share you but I'll find a way to manage.”

“I don't think it would be hard for either one of us once we were doing it.” He ran his hand down her back. “You'll be sick of all my attention by then.”

Rachel raised an eyebrow. “We both know that's not possible.” Looking down, she began toying with the collar of his shirt. “Do you ever wonder if you'll be good at it? Being a parent, I mean. I know we're pretty far from it and it's strange to be this young and wondering but.. I don't know. I never had a mom and it makes me think about if I'll be bad at it because of that.”

“I think you’ll be an amazing mom, Rach. You mother me all the time.” He joked. “And you’re caring and strong.” He looked down at her lap. “I just… I feel like I want to give someone all the things we couldn’t have. I know it probably is the wrong reason to want to be a father but I guess it would be like fixing my childhood somehow.”

“I don't think it's wrong or the only reason you want to be a dad. I think most people want their kids to have things they didn't. Our things just aren't material. That's all.” She tilted his face towards hers with her index finger. “I think you'll be a good dad, too. But… you'll have to wear pants all the time. All of the days of naked romps in the kitchen will end.”

He chuckled “Well, forget about it then.” He said playfully. “No more kitchen sex is just out of the realm of possibility for me.”

Leaning back a little, Rachel laughed. “Okay. Maybe not completely. Just much less.”

“We don't do it that often anyways.” He laughed. “Usually it's the bed.”

“It'll probably be there a lot when we have kids. The good news is that we have plenty of time to get all the friskiness we want in.”

“It's a good excuse to get dirty.” He smirked.

“Like we've ever needed an excuse.” Rachel started a kiss then worked her way down his neck.

Finn closed his eyes as she kissed his neck. “I love it when you do that. “

Rachel's hands moved under his shirt, her nails grazing his sides as her teeth scored his neck. “Really? I'd never have guessed.”

He groaned softly, his head tilting a little as a response. “You known all of the ways to get me.”

“I am your wife, so I should know them better than anyone.” Rachel wondered how much time they had before dinner came. She didn't want to rile Finn too much just to leave them both frustrated. But she also didn't to stop, which always won out in the end. “You've always been very good at telling me exactly what they are.”

“You've always known though. That's part of what makes you so amazing.” He ran his hand down her back.

Rachel shifted her body so that her knees hugged Finn's hips as her lips found his again. Her own hips shifted against his in a gentle rocking move. “What else makes me amazing?”

Finn let his hands move up her shirt. “This body..” He smirked.

Rachel had nothing on under the shirt she was wearing, a strategic move for the massage that now seemed to be working in other favors. “You do enjoy this body, thoroughly and often.”

“Mhm.. I love touching you.” He kissed her again. “Especially here.” He brought his hands to her breasts.

Finn’s hands were warm on her breasts and Rachel sighed as his palms closed over them. “Their one of my favorites, too.”

He moved his hands only so he could pull her shirt up over her head. His lips moved to her neck and down to her chest before letting his tongue circle her nipple.

Rachel lifted her arms so he could pull her shirt off. Her hips moved in earnest as he took her nipple into his mouth. “Mmm, baby. It's good you're touching me. Or I'd have to do it myself.”

“Mm.. Thinking about you touching yourself turns me on so much.” He lifted his head to look at her.

Rachel looked down, her smile wicked. “And if you saw it? What do you think that would do?”

Finn returned her grin “It would make me so hard, baby.”

With a final kiss, Rachel lifted off him and reached for his hand. Why she was more comfortable on the bed, she wasn't sure. It just felt safer, especially when she was about to be at her most vulnerable. Not that she hadn't imagined doing this before with him. She just never thought she'd build up the courage to be able to expose something so private. But it was Finn, and she loved him. He was the only one she truly trusted with anything. So she stopped midway in the bedroom to drop her pants. She slid onto the bed and looked over at him with a soft expression.

He got up from the couch after her, hardly believing that this was happening. He watched her climb onto the bed before he removed his own clothes and moved to sit beside her, letting her take her own time.

It was somehow comforting to Rachel knowing that Finn was close. The potential  awkwardness of a moment like they were having seemed absent as she laid back and her hands slid down her neck, settling at her breasts. She was slow as she kneaded each, her mind drifting back to Finn's mouth on them moments before. It didn't take long before a hand moved over her stomach to caress the inside of her thigh.

Finn watched her closely, feeling like he was n some kind of dream. “You're so sexy, baby.” He said softly.

Rachel opened her eyes, focusing on her husband as the hand on her thigh moved upward. Her chest fluttered with anticipation as she teased herself, purposefully avoiding her clit at first. “You like this, hmm?” She brushed a finger against her nerves and gasped. “That you can make want it so bad, even when you're not around?”

He bit the inside of his lip as she began to touch herself. “I do baby.. I love that you touch yourself thinking about me.”

Rachel's body arched off the bed as she pressed a finger into herself, more to indulge Finn than anything - her solo sessions weren't always on that level. “Everything you do feels so good. It gets me so turned on.”

Finn was growing hard just watching her, his eyes fixated on her. He wanted more than anything to touch her, but he wasn't willing to ruin the moment for that. “You're getting me so hard, Rach.”

Rachel moaned, wanting for his hands to be on her more than her own. “Well, there's enough of me to share. I wouldn't want to deprive you.”

“But I'm watching.” He said with a playful smile as he reached over to play with her breast.

Rachel reacted to his touch with a subtle shift in her body towards his own. “I could set a hands off policy. But I don't think you'll like that.”

He shook his head “I would break that rule immediately.” He gave her a kiss.

Rachel's hands stopped then, her whole focus being on Finn and the kiss. She pushed up a little to get at his lips and she whimpered when she finally had to part for air.

Finn kissed her heatedly, losing himself in the moment and forgetting about what they had come in here to do. He moved his arm around her, pulling her close as his lips moved down to her neck in rough kisses.

Rachel moved easily to her husband, the heat of his kisses increasing her volume as he likely bruised her neck. “You liked the little show, hmm?”

“You know I did.” His lips brushed her skin as he spoke before he nipped at her.

Rachel smiled. “I do. But now we're both completely turned on. We should do something about that.”

“Maybe you should.” He lifted his head to look at her with a smirk.

Lip tucked her lip between her teeth then moved to straddle her husband. “I like doing it with you best.” It was where she started in the other room and as she shifted, slowing sinking onto Finn, she knew it was how she wanted it to end too. Just not immediately.

“I like it with you too… even though you just fulfilled a pretty big fantasy just now.” He smiled before sighed as she sunk onto him.

Rachel linked her hands with his before pressing them against the bed. “Mmm, good to know.” Controlling her body was nearly impossible but Rachel managed to keep a slow starting pace,  her hips rocking in a way that made her moan. “I like being your fantasy girl.”

“You have been since we started talking, baby.” He said softly as he gave her a small kiss.

Rachel deepened the kiss, holding it for as long as she could. Straightening, she kept her eyes turned to Finn as her hips moved faster.

He moved one of his hands from hers so he could place it on her hip. “I love you so much.” He said, followed by a groan.

Rachel leaned forward, her free hand covering Finn’s, so she could move in a way that really got him going. “I love you, baby. Always.”

Finn’s head tilted back slightly “God, you feel so fucking good.” He realized he was getting close so he moved his hand between them to toy with her clit. “The only thing that will make it better is if you cum for me.”

Rachel didn't need much in the way of encouragement, physical or otherwise, to climax. She enjoyed the way Finn was touching her, though, so she held out as long as she could before losing control. All that passed her lips was Finn’s name and satisfied sounds as she started to come down.

He waited until he felt her orgasm before he allowed his own release. He let out a long breath as his body relaxed and his hand moved along her back.

Rachel lay beside him, watching his chest rise and fall as they both calmed. She smiled lazily at him as his hand swept her spine. “Between this, the massage, and dinner, I have a feeling we’ll both sleep well tonight.”

“Yes we will. I'm already exhausted.” He said with a laugh.

Rachel played absently with his hair as she didn't have the energy for much else. “Don't get too comfy. I'm actually surprised the food hasn't come yet.”

“I forgot about food.” He said, feigning surprise at his own words.

“It's understandable. Your world was completely rocked just now.” Rachel winked then laughed at herself for being so goofy.

“It was.” He gave her a kiss. “My extremely sexy wife just made my year.”

Rachel blushed ever so slightly and nudged him gently. “You're always so complimentary.”

“You like being talked up every now and then.” He grinned.

“More like every chance you have.” Rachel could never deny that compliments were her weakness, especially when they come Finn. Even the salacious comments made her heart jump a bit faster. “You're what makes them worthwhile.” Tilting her head back, her lips brushed his. “Your compliments are always going to be the best. Better than any reviews or awards or any of that.”

“We will see when you start being praised by everyone else.” He gave her a kiss.

“If you want to wait that long to tell me I am right about this, I won't push you. But I absolutely am. None of those people, whoever they are, could mean to me what you do so their words aren't worth as much.”

He pressed his forehead against hers “I love you a lot.”

Rachel felt her lips curve into a smile, their closeness more irresistible than any compliment he could offer. “I love you at least as much.” She sighed, her hand moving into his. “I will all my life.”

“I will love you forever.” He kissed her again.

Rachel almost made a cheeky comment about her butt being cute enough to keep him interested for a time… but she stopped herself short. The beauty of these moments between them wasn't lost on her and even though they weren't lacking, Rachel chose to cherish all of the unspoken feelings that couldn't be put to words since no words were large enough. “I wouldn't have it any other way, baby.”

He gave her a smile “So… You mentioned food…”

Rachel laughed as Finn's hunger cut into their moment. “My poor, starving hubby.” She patted his belly before getting up and pulling on his shirt from the floor. “I'll call and check the status.” The room phone sat on the nightstand so she sat beside him as she gathered information on the whereabouts of their meal. “It's hot and on its way.”

He watched her as she called about their food and nodded his head when she told him it was coming. “Awesome.” He grinned as he got up to put on his boxers.

Rachel sat back against the headboard and watched him dress. “You've always been this way but you practically light up when you're about to be fed.”

“Light up?” He asked with a laugh.

“Yes. Like, you get a shine in your eyes and a goofy grin. Almost like you're falling in love.” Rachel winked as she moved off the bed to put her arms around him. “If food were a girl, I might have to be jealous since I thought those things were reserved for me alone.”

“I just like food.” He laughed as he hugged her back. “I like you more though.”

“That’s the impression that I was given just now.” Rachel kissed his cheek but was prevented from any further affection by a knock on the door. “Sounds like someone heard your pleas.”

“Oh thank God.” He joked as he walked to the door and opened it to get their food. He brought it in and set it down before sitting in front of it to eat.

Rachel thanked the individual who delivered the food before sitting down with Finn to eat. “It smells really good.” Her meal was her favorite - eggplant parmesan - and she savored the first bite.

“It is amazing baby. This whole trip is.” he gave her a closed mouth smiled.

Rachel was overjoyed by his admission. He’d been saying it all day but it made her feel strangely successful to see him that satisfied and happy with her choice. It hadn’t been easy to squirrel away as much money as she did, especially knowing that they could have used it for other, small things. His smile while he enjoyed his meal made everything worthwhile. “Good. You don’t get a good steak very often.”

“Nah but everything we do eat is fine. I do like getting spoiled every now and then too though.” He leaned over to kiss her cheek.

“I try to spoil you in other ways to make up for the steak deficit you experience at home. Seeing you enjoy this much is really the best part of this whole experience. The nice room, hot tub, and massage weren’t so bad either.”

“You do spoil me in other ways. I'm a lucky man.” He grinned. “Well it's been a fun day, how could I not enjoy myself?”

“Good question. I can't imagine many scenarios that would make this unenjoyable.” Rachel looked at her husband, his smile the very definition of everything she loved most in the world.

Finn happily finished off his food and put his arm around her. “I don't think the there would be a way to ruin it. You and me alone outside the city? That's the perfect situation. “

Rachel took a sip of the sparkling cider that’d come with dinner before reaching out to touch Finn’s cheek. “Well, I don’t want to say any of them and jinx things. What I do think is a fire after dinner would make it even better. I can cuddle up with you under a blanket. Maybe kiss a little.”

“A fire does sound nice. And kisses are expected.” He joked.

“At this point, kisses are the minimum standard. If there are no kisses, then someone is in trouble.” Rachel quieted as she attempted to finish up her plate, a little piece of food left when she sat back in her chair.

Finn ran his hand along her back as she finished eating, then stole a kiss once she was done. “I'm not just trying to talk you up, but you are seriously so beautiful. I love you so much.”

Rachel instinctively leaned toward Finn when he touched her, told her she was beautiful. “I know you aren't. I don't think you've ever been anything but sincere when you call me beautiful.” Turning completely, Rachel kissed him, momentarily feeling almost as shy as she had the first time he asked to kiss her. “I love you. With all my heart. And everything you do for me makes every part of my dreams seem more possible.”

Finn smiled at her words “I'm glad I get to be a part of it.” He kissed her again.

Rachel couldn't imagine her life without him being part of it. She had when things were rocky between them and she decided then that there was nothing that would keep them apart. She would always fight for them because when everything else came and went, there was still Finn. And them. She wasn't willing to ever give it up. “You always will be. A girl needs her best friend, after all.”

“And he needs his best friend too.” He stood up and held his hand out to her. “Let's get this fire going.”

Rachel took his hand but stopped short to pull him close to her. “The fire can wait just a second. I need just one…” She kissed him softly, her arms moving around his neck. The warmth between them made her sigh happily and she almost couldn't stop herself from catching his lip gently with her teeth. “Okay. Now we can start the fire.”

Finn happily allowed himself to be drawn into her and kissed her back. “I don't know why you do that and expect me to stay on task.”

Rachel didn't move away from him, her eyes focused on the curve of his lip as he talked. “I can't help myself around you. Especially when you tell me I'm beautiful.” She had to tear her glance away. “And that you're going to start a fire. I will undoubtedly feel very lovey dovey after that and offer similar displays of affection.”

“Which you will get all you want.” He walked to the fireplace and started it. He grabbed a blanket to lay down in front of the fireplace and sat on it, patting beside him so she would join.

Rachel slid onto the blanket next to him, the glow from the fire warming her cheeks. “Very nice.” She leaned against him and rested her head on his shoulder. “This is what I see when I daydream on the train sometimes. Just you and me, someplace romantic.”

“I don't really daydream but if I did I'm sure that's what I would be thinking about too.” He turned his head to kiss her.

Rachel tilted her head, the kiss drawing her slightly up from her relaxed position. “The difference is that we normally have clothes on when I think about us.”

He chuckled, shrugging. “At this point you can't expect much else from me.”

“I will forever be a hopeful romantic, so I have faith that you can do anything.”

“Well… I'd rather have naked fantasies than romantic daydreams.”

“As long as I'm the star in all of them, I can't be too upset.” Rachel kissed along his neck a little.

“You are, always. You known that.” He moved his arm around her.

“Mmhmm.” Rachel tried not to leave any marks but she found the task almost impossible. Her lips moved back to his. “And making out in front of a fire? Is that on the fantasy list?”

His eyes closed as she kissed his neck, though he was glad when she kissed him again. “Maybe with a little more boobs.” He joked as his hand moved to just where he was talking about over the shirt she wore.

“I'm not even remotely surprised.” The shirt was really just in the way, so Rachel pulled back long enough to lift it over her head and toss it next to them. “Better?”

He watched her with a smirk as she pulled the shirt over her head, then moved his hands to her. “Always better when I have my hands on you.”

Rachel had to agree on that point, his palms fitting over her breasts as if they were made to be there. “And your mouth.”

“Message received.” He said with a small chuckle as he kissed her again, but let his kisses trail down her chin to her neck and slowly to her chest before be let his tongue find her nipple.

Rachel knew she was spoiled but she relished every bit of attention he paid her. The way he brought her body to a slow burn with his kisses made her moan softly, appreciatively. “You know just what I like. What makes me feel good.”

Finn gave a groan in response, his arm wrapping around her to hold her against him as he lavished her breast.

Rachel's fingers tugged lightly at his hair, the moans becoming louder as he drew her closer. “Now I know why you built that fire. To have your way with me.”

He lifted his head to give her a smirk “You said you wanted to make love by the fire. I'm just fulfilling fantasies here.”

In the glow of the fire, and the muss of his hair, Rachel recalled the sweet boy she'd fallen so madly in love with. Her fingers moved to sweep his cheek as she kissed him. “You're the fantasy. The fire is just a bonus.”

“You have me everyday forever.” He kissed her again, his lips moving against hers passionately.

“That's what gets me through every day. Knowing I have you to come home to.” The kiss was enticing but Rachel needed more. “You got me turned on though, and I don't know if I can take that.”

Finn gave her an amused smirk before he pushed her back against the blanket and his lips attached to her neck as his hand moved between her legs.

Rachel laud back, her knees slack and body wanton for his touch once again. “That's it, baby.” Her body arched as he stroked. “Get me nice and wet for you.”

He nipped at her skin, then kissed his way back to her lips in a heated kiss. As he worked her up, he began to feel more wired and he pressed himself against her.

Rachel's nails dug into his shoulder, a frenzied feeling gripping her as she felt him shift against her. In a fumbling effort, she pushed at his shorts.

He let out a breath as he felt her nails against his skin. He pulled away just enough that he could push his boxers off of himself, then kissed her again as he continued to work them both up.

Rachel grinned as Finn took off his shorts, then pouted and huffed when he didn't immediately push into her. Patience had never been her strong suit but his continued touch and kiss sated part of het desire. At least enough to let him work. Her legs shifted with purpose, her soft thigh rubbing against Finn.

Finn could tell she was running out of patience so he moved his hand from her so he could grip himself to guide himself into her. He bit his lip, looking down at her as he pushed into her.

Rachel's gaze stayed on Finn as they were finally joined, her body feeling perfect and right in the moment. She reached up to touch his neck, then his chest. Her hand rested over his heart for just a moment. “I love you so much.”

He paused as he filled her, his eyes meeting hers. “I love you too, Rach.” He began to move, trying to keep the pace as slow as they had been all day.

Rachel's smile faded into a satisfied moan as her back arched, Finn’s pace driving her crazy. “More.” She pulled him closer to her, her leg wrapping tight  around his torso.

He was so glad she was asking for me and he didn't hesitate to give it to her as he began to move in harder thrusts. His head ducked by her shoulder, pressing kisses to her neck every so often.

Rachel held nothing back as Finn moved against her in a very pleasing way. “That's so good, baby.” Her fingers traced his spine as the found their shared rhythm.

“Yeah?” He said softly against her skin. “You always feel so good. You're amazing.”

Inexplicably, Rachel was becoming emotionally overwhelmed. Her hands gently took his face so she could look at his eyes. They were as soft as his words. “You make everything incredible.” Her lips pressed to his before she fell back, his body taking hers in all the best possible ways. “Oh Finn.”

Finn let her take his face, giving her a smile as their eyes met. As she moaned, he moved faster against her. “do you want to trade spots, baby?” He asked, knowing he was going to get close soon if they didn't change.

Rachel had to find composure at his suggestion but she managed to nod, their places exchanged quickly. On top, she kissed him lightly to slow things down. Her fingers wove through his as she sunk down, her head falling to the side as she started slowly.

Finn was glad she agreed and quickly moved off of her so they could trade spots. He ran his hand up her torso as she sunk onto him, and his teeth dug into his bottom lip as he watched her move. “I could watch you like this forever.”

Rachel leaned forward, their joined hands against the blanket. “I love when you do.” The words were barely a whisper, Rachel trying to hold it together even though Finn had primed her well.

He squeezed her hands, his eyes closing as he tried to hold off from the inevitable. “You have me so close, baby.” He finally said with a groan.

Rachel continued to build at a slower pace, wanting everything to last when she knew it couldn't. She wanted him to touch her but there was barely time to ask before she stilled on top of him as she completely unraveled.

Finn’s back arched slightly into her as he released, his hand holding hers tightly as they came undone together. He came down with e release of a breath “I love you.”

Rachel moved off of him and laid next to him on the blanket. “I love you.” She kissed his cheek. “Thank you for the fire. And for.. you know.” Rachel hid her face, a giddiness she hadn't felt since their early days taking hold.

He chuckled, his arm wrapping around her. “You are welcome.” He waggled his eyebrows. “Thank you.” He added playfully.

Rachel laughed. “You still make me feel like the when I first fell for you. I blush and ramble like a silly kid.”

“I love seeing you like this. You're cute.” He pressed a kiss to her cheek.

“I'm just happy, blissfully so. You've always made me feel this way and it's always made me love you more.”

“I'm feeling really happy as well. You make my life so good.”

In a perfect world, they'd never have to leave that feeling behind. “I definitely try. I know it has its ups and downs but it means a lot to me that our relationship mostly feels good for both if us.”

“It does me too, baby. I would take a bad day with you over a good day with anyone else.”

Rachel let the tips of her fingers drift over his chest, her eyes feeling slightly heavy with warmth. “Same. But let's say we weren't married, never dated. What do you think you'd be doing right now?”

Finn shrugged “I wouldn't have left Lima. I'd probably be working at Sheets N’ Things.”

“Hey, you looked super sexy in the uniform.” Rachel nudged his side. “It would've led to a torrid love affair with Terri Schuester.”

“That is gross.” He laughed. “I do think she had a weird thing for me though, I'm not gonna lie.”

“Oh, she definitely did. Though, you are quite appealing in many ways so I'm not surprised. It would be hard for any woman to avoid falling madly in love with you.”

“Of course you would feel that way.” he laughed.

“Are you accusing me of being bias?” Rachel propped herself up a little to give him a kiss. “I don’t know if I like your implication.”

“You are. I did just rock your world though so I can't say I blame you.”

Rachel opened her mouth then shut it quickly since she had no counter, teasing or otherwise. “You did, no doubt.”

Finn gave her a smug nod. “so what now, Mrs. Hudson?”

Rachel grinned at him. “I do like when you call me that.” She sat up and stretched a little. “I wouldn't mind cuddling in bed. I'm getting a little tired to be honest. Must have been having my world rocked.”

“Must have.” He said with a chuckle as he stood to put the fire out. “Let's get to bed then. I'm pretty tired as well.”

Rachel reached for his hand to pull herself up then grabbed the blanket off the floor and wrapped in it. “And since you've been such a good husband, you get all the naked cuddles tonight.” With a wink and a kiss, she slipped off to the bedroom.

“Oh man, I'm so lucky.” He followed after her, reaching out to tap her behind as she walked.

Rachel jumped at his teasing slap, turning her head to offer a quirky smile. “You’re very lucky. I mean, you get to sleep next to all this.” For emphasis, she wrapped her blanketed arms around him and let her frame press against his. “All warm and snuggly and likely willing by the morning.”

“Good, because after the day we've had and snuggling with you naked I will probably wake up more than willing too.” He gave her a kiss.

“You’re always pretty willing. I figure a trip like this is a rarity so we have to make the most of it.” Rachel let go and and slid between the soft sheets.

“I mean… Sometimes more than others.” He laughed softly and climbed into bed with her. He wrapped his arm around her and cuddled close.

Rachel was comfortable in his arms, her whole body relaxing as Finn held her. “That’s true. You usually have to be really tired or in a really foul mood to turn you off completely. And when you’re sick. Other than that, I can’t think of anything that keeps you off intimacy regularly.”

“Yeah, nothing really does I guess.” He laughed. “At least you know in consistent.”

“Consistently in the mood. If I had a watch, I could set it to your schedule.” Rachel rested her head on his chest. “In all seriousness, when you’re not, I start to worry. It usual tells me you’re down or sick or something.”

Finn ran his hand along her back. “I've never thought about it that way, but I guess it probably is usually a sign.”

Rachel felt a shiver line her spine, gaze soft as she looked at Finn. “Everyone has tells. And all joking aside, not wanting to be close like that is one of yours. I know to back off a little and give you space when you're not in the mood. Unless you ask me not to, of course.”

He gave her a small smile “I try not to get like that.” He said softly.

“I know. Sometimes, it just can’t be helped. I’m starting to understand that and not take it as a call for me to fix anything. I try to wait for you to ask me for help now.”

“I'm sorry if I make things complicated. “ he gave her a kiss.

Rachel stroked his cheek. “Don’t be sorry for that. I am complicated too. You’ve said so a thousand times in the past.” Her smile grew as their lips touched. “But you love me all the same. Just like I love you.”

He closed his eyes as she stroked his cheek. “I do love you a lot.” He said with a smile. “You're not that complicated. Sometimes maybe a little.”

Rachel watched his face, his closed eyes making him look serene. “I probably always will be, even if just a little at times. As long as you love me, though, I’ll be okay. That love actually makes so many parts of my life much easier.”

“You know that nothing could make me stop loving you. Even if you were the most complicated person on earth I would follow you anywhere.”

“Just like I would you. To Lima or Antarctica. There's no place I want to be without you.” Rachel moved in, wanting to feel closer. “I'm getting a bit emotional.”

He kissed her forehead “We can stop.” He said with a small laugh. “don't want any tears tonight.”

“Someday, I’m going to not get teary when I get emotional. Just so that I can soak up all the sweet things you say without you having to stop saying them. But thank you for always understanding.”

“As long as you're crying for good reasons, I can handle it.” He smiled.

Rachel yawned, her eyes fluttering shut before she forced them open. “Most of my tears are good tears. Except when I stub my toe. Those are always bad tears.”

“Those are the worst tears.” He laughed softly. “Goodnight baby.” He kissed her cheek.

Rachel settled down, pulling the blanket up over her arms to combat the slight chill of the room. “Goodnight.”

#finchel rp

[nitaescence]

The Return of Superman - HS

BTS members as fathers in The Return of Superman show

J-Hope x Reader Genre : Fluff Word Count : 3143

Author’s Note -

It includes interviews and shootings.

*…* : sentences edited on the final images.

Bold : cameras’ position in the house or outside.

Italics : dialogues.

/…/ : Time.

(…) : Sound effects.

[…] : camera movements

Who Do You Take After?

Building

*The sky is radiant in Seoul today*

Kitchen/Living-room/Bedrooms

*Let's meet the new superman!*

[Hourglass]

/10:56 AM/

*It's late in the morning and everyone is still sleeping*

Living-room

There is some bustling in the corridor.

*It seems like someone is awake.* [zoom] A shitzu appears, walking around the apartment to sniff the different tents hiding the cameramen. *Oh, it's the owner's pet. So cute* (amazement) *Hello.*

Bedroom

*There's only one person asleep in this bed*

The tall body rolls around to lie of their front, spreading his arms to the other side of the bed. His arms land on an empty spot making them lift their head. *awake* Looking around and trying to chase away the last remnants of slumber, he sit on the bed's edge while rubbing their eyes. The person stands up and walks around, scratching his bare stomach. *The new dad seems very fit* He puts on a shirt and walks out to the bathroom.

Living-room

[Tilt-pan] The man walks in the living-room. [slow-motion] *Who's the new dad?* [slow-motion / zoom on their face] *It's charismatic idol, Jung Ho Seok!* (amazement) [pictures/videos of him performing with the other members in concerts and shows] *He made his debut as one of the rappers and the main dancer in the worldwide known K-Pop group BTS in 2013 under the nickname of J-Hope. [videos of him in interviews and taken by the members or himself] His energetic and bubbly personality is one of his numerous charms. He's always seen as extra.[videos of him dancing in studios] Since his debut, he got highly praised for his high skills in dance and still does. (amazement) He opened his own dance Academy in 2022 located in Seoul and Gwangju, his native town.*

Ho Seok – Hello. I'm singer Jung Ho Seok. I'm here to greet you all as the father of my first child Jung Rae Yeon.

Director – Could you introduce yourself as J-Hope?

Ho Seok – So suddenly? You're making me flush... I'm your hope, I'm you're angel! I'm J-Hope! (laughs)

Ho Seok's smile dies instantly after that,abashed, looking at the staff.

Sleep lines can be seen on one side of his face. *signs of deep sleep* Ho Seok walks to one of the cameramen as the dog follows him, running and jumping around.

'Has she already left?' He asks him, bending a little.

'Yes. About two hours ago.' Answers the cameraman.

[Flashback two hours ago] Y/N wakes up earlier than her husband. She gets ready then goes in the kitchen to make sure she didn't forget anything regarding the food she prepared for her family. She also thinks of filling the dog's bowl with its food and water. She is then seen walking to a camera settled in one of the kitchen's corner and greets the viewers. [End of flashback]

Y/N- Hello. I'm Jung Ho Seok's wife and Rae Yeon's mother, Y/N. It's nice to meet you all.

Ho Seok stands up, rubbing his eyes. He picks his dog and goes to lie down on the couch. He strokes him before it leaves him to drink water in its bowl. He stretches his body, still tired.

Child Bedroom

In the dark, someone wiggles their way out of the warm blankets and stands up by the bed, still dazed. (amazement) Slowly, they open the door and walk outside.

Living-room

Ho Seok is still lying on the couch, his face buried in the crook of his elbow. *Did he fall asleep again?*(laughs) When small steps are heard, he immediately opens his eyes and turns his head.

'Rae Yeon-ah, come here.' He says in a groggy voice, opening his arms.

[zoom on Rae Yeon's face] *Beautiful Rae Yeon just woke up* The little girl walks to her father with a big smile on her face, her arm tightly holding her soft toy.

Rae Yeon – Hello, I'm five year-old Jung Rae Yeon.(amazement)

[Couple pictures] *Jung Hoseok dated Y/N his for two and half years and got married in 2023. Rae Yeon was conceived a year later. [Picture of baby Rae Yeon] *She looks a lot like her mother* *She is the daughter of a happy family* [footage of 3-year-old Rae Yeon dancing] *She takes after his father* *She is as playful and energetic*

Y/N – Her name wasn't even that hard to think of. When I was pregnant of her, she was very vigorous and not a day passed by without her kicking inside of me. I kept saying that she got her vitality from Ho Seok and I then I thought about how much people refer to him being as lively as the sun. That's how we came up with her name; its pronunciation reminds me of the french word for ray. It made pretty much sense as she keeps illuminating our lives since the day she was born. (amazement)

Living-room

'Did you sleep well?' asks Ho Seok as he straightens his daughter's hair with his fingers. Rae Yeon nods while yawning. She leans in and kisses his father on the mouth. *They are very expressive in showing their love for each other* (amazement) Ho Seok puts his arm around her shoulders to press her face against him and rubs her back. 'Can you bring dad's phone? It's in my room' She nods and walks away, noticing on her way a moving remote camera placed next to the T.V.

'What is it? Camera?' She asks, looking puzzled at the device.

'It follows you if you move around.' Says Ho Seok, looking at her from the couch. She shifts her body to the right and left and laughs when she sees the camera following her movements then leaves in her parents' bedroom.

She appears again and walks back to her dad with his phone in her hand.

'Thank you.' Ho Seok, unlocks and thumbs quickly on it while Rae Yeon walks back to take a closer look at the camera. Then she picks the T.V remote to watch cartoons.

Ho Seok suddenly stands up and walks to the open kitchen, fetching some plastic boxes and plates from the fridge. He puts his phone on the counter, taking a glance once in while as he starts preparing breakfast. *He reads something diligently*

Kitchen

[zoom on Ho Seok's phone] He is reading a text message. *His wife must have written him instructions for today*

'Rae Yeon-ah!'

'Yes?'

He holds a glass in the air for her to come to take. She walks to him, eyes still glued to the T.V.

'Yah, aren't you exaggerating? T.V isn't going to fly away.' She smiles cutely and takes her fruit juice from him.

He puts the food that Y/N prepared earlier to heat in the microwave. Once everything is ready, he sets the table and calls for Rae Yeon to come and eat.

'It's good.' comments the girl, her mouth full.

'Your mother's cooking skills are no joke.' adds Ho Seok, moving his chopsticks vividly to taste everything. (laughs) Rae Yeon starts moving her hand in the air and wiggling her body on her chair. *She dances to express her happiness* Ho Seok mimics her while making funny faces making them both laugh.

Living-room

/11:42 AM/

After they have finished eating and Ho Seok has washed the dishes, they settle in the living-room – Ho Seok is sat on the floor against the couch on his phone and Rae Yeon is standing beside him, hugging her soft toy and staring at the T.V now playing music videos.

Ho Seok notices from the corner of his eyes as she starts moving her body to the girls dancing in the screen and smiles to himself.

'That's it, you've got to digest.'(laughs)

*Rae Yeon dances to help her digestion* [Rae Yeon's dance and Dancers'] *It's quite similar* *She gets into the groove* (laughs) *Agile leg motions* She does her best to move like the persons on the screen. *Rae Yeon's bottom wave* Ho Seok bursts out laughing while clapping. *Ho Seok finds his daughter's dance hilarious* (laughs)

'Rae Yeon-ah.' Calls Ho Seok making Rae Yeon to look at him.

'Is it true, that you have your lesson today?'

'What day are we?

'What?'

'What day are we?'

'Wednesday.'

'Yes. My classes are Wednesdays.'

*Does she take dance lessons because it's your passion?*

Ho Seok – No, not at all. She made the request herself after I took her with me one day at my dance Academy. Nowadays, she's very fond of watching MV's and learning dances. Surprisingly, she doesn't recognize me in BTS ones. I suspect the haircuts. (laughs) When she expressed the will to follow dance lessons she had a very precise idea of it, she wanted it to be ballet lessons. Still, I'm very glad that she loves dancing and chose that way to express herself. I will support her whatever she does though, regardless of her choices.

Ho Seok's Car

/02:01 PM/

'Let's go!' shouts Ho Seok as the car's engine turns on.

'Dad! Do you know the way?' asks Rae Yeon, buckled in the backseat.

'No, but our friend, the GPS, will tell us the right way. At least, I hope.' (laughs) Answers Ho Seok, his eyes looking back and forth between the road and the little screen on his bottom right. *It's Ho Seok's first time, bringing Rae Yeon to her ballet lessons* 'We're almost there!' He exclaims, relieved.

'I don't recognize the surroundings.' comments Rae Yeon looking outside.

'I typed the address correctly. What are you saying?' (laughs)

'It's a joke.' She smiles. *Rae Yeon likes to tease her father*

Ho Seok's parks his car and they get out of it.

'You took your bag?'

'Yes.'

'Let's go,then.'

In front of the changing rooms

'No!' Shouts suddenly Rae Yeon, yanking on her dad's hand.

'What is it?'

'You can't go in. You're a man.'

'Wha- You'll be able to change yourself?'

'Yes, wait here.'

'Are you sure?'

She nods and walks away to the ladies room. Ho Seok sits on the bench placed next to the rooms, looking around him to take in his surroundings. She reappears a few minutes later in her white dance outfit. *She looks adorable. She transformed into a white swan.* Ho Seok's eyes illuminates as soon as he sees her and stands up to meet her.

'Dad! Can you do my hair?'

'Your hair?' Rae Yeon turns her back to Ho Seok and gives him her elastic band. 'How is it supposed to be?' asks Ho Seok, flustered.

'You need to do a high bun. Like her.' Answers Rae Yeon pointing at a girl passing by.

Ho Seok looks around him and tries to comb his daughter hair the same as the others but to no avail.

*He has no idea of what he's doing*(laughs) All the children hurry inside the classroom as it will soon begin.

'Dad, you need to hurry.'

'Wait a second.' He tries a second time but the bun is not tight enough. He sighs, defeated. *What will he do?*

'Excuse me! Excuse me.' He calls out a group of young mothers, discussing nearby. 'Could you please help me tie my daughter's hair?' One of the women walks to them and starts combing Rae Yeon's hair. *The woman did it in a matter of few seconds* (amazement) 'Thank you.' He says while Rae Yeon is already gone, running not to miss her lesson.

Ho Seok follows close and goes to sit with the parents already installed. He instantly spots his daughter as the teacher's voice resonates in the room.

'Let's first warm up our bodies.' All the children listen carefully and executes all the exercises and routines they've started to work on. Rae Yeon seems to really enjoy her dance lessons as she laughs with children around her. *Rae Yeon has made several friends*  

Ho Seok watches her carefully and a feeling of pride washes over his face whenever the teacher tells her students to take his daughter as an example. He makes sure to record some videos and takes some pictures. *Ho Seok is Rae Won's biggest fan*

Ho Seok – I had no idea what consisted ballet lessons and I was really impressed at how good all the children were despite the difficulties. I already know that she has incredible flexibility but Rae Yeon really surprised me and I was really proud of her when she succeeded doing all the movements the right way. I also saw how much she loves taking these classes by the look on her face, she seems well-rounded. I'll make sure to accompany her to some other lessons.

Ho Seok's Car

/03:26 PM/

'Where are we going ?' asks Rae Yeon watching her father plug his phone in his vehicle's USB port.

'Right now? We're going shopping?' Ho Seok answers while leaving his parking spot.

'We're going to buy clothes?' *Rae Yeon is happy to spend some more time with her father*

'Yes. Your mom told me to buy a present for your baby cousin.'

A music compilation blasts from Ho Seok's phone, making Rae Yeon move her head in rhythm. Ho Seok sings along the lyrics here and there, making eye-contact with her through the rear-view mirror.  

After a while they park in the mall's underground parking lot. They walk into an elevator and push the button that will lead them to the clothes shop floor. Then, they appear walking hand in hand until they enter a kids' clothes shop. Rae Yeon drops her father's hand to push the door open.

Kids' Clothes Shop

'Hello!' they both greet the salespersons welcoming them.

'Wow, so many pretty clothes here.' exclaims Ho Seok.

*A place with cute clothes and lots of accessories* (amazement) *Will they find their happiness?*

'What can we get for him?' asks Ho Seok, looking around while Rae Yeon walks ahead of him.

'Dad, look!' She suddenly exclaims when she finds a cute little dress.

Ho Seok turns his head to look at his daughter, a smile on his face.

'Go ahead. Pick out the clothes you like.' he encourages while he goes to one of the venders. 'What kind of clothes do you have for baby boys?'

'A baby boy?' repeats the young woman.

'Yes. It'll be a gift.' Ho Seok follows her to the back of the shop dedicated to baby's clothes. 'Rae Yeon-ah! I'll be right here.' She doesn't hear him. *Rae Yeon seems to have found her paradise.* Another vendor is standing next to her, to help her get the clothes that catch her attention.

'Here are the clothes, you're looking for. Take your time, call me if you need anything.' says the woman before retreating back to the front.

'Thank you.' Ho Seok gets closer to the shelves with the folded clothes and picks some to look at them. He hesitates for a while as he picks several items, talking to himself.

'Aren't these for girls' ?'/'Are these regular sizes for boys?'/'Is this too big?'/'Will they like something like that?'/ 'Excuse-me,Ma'am./ Are these for 7-months-old?' *Dad seems lost* *Luckily, the vendors are here to help him make his mind* 'This looks nice./ Nice./ I like this one.' *Dad wants to make sure he picks the right ones*

He eventually chooses two outfits, one for the day and another for the night with baby shoes. He walks back to where he left his daughter.

'Rae Yeon-ah, where are you?'

She is still with the same woman, her arms laden with the little girl's choices.

'Yah! What is this? Are you going to buy all this?Why not buy the whole shop while we're on the subject. (laughs) 'Why is the poor woman's arms full with clothes?'

Rae Yeon smiles sheepishly to him. He goes to them and takes the clothes out of the vendor's arms.

'You can't take all of this, you need to make a choice.' He squats and starts to separate the items to look at them while Rae Yeon joins him.

'I like this one. I really like this one.' She says pointing at a baby blue skirt.

'This one? Take it.' Ho Seok gives her the skirt and picks a long sleeve shirt among the amount of clothes he placed on his bent leg. 'This should match the skirt. You want to take that dress too?' Rae Yeon nods, opening her arms.

'Ok. Let's try them on.' He stands up and goes to give the other clothes back to the woman who stands still not far from them. 'Do you have changing-rooms?' She shows him the way.

'What do you want to try first?' Ho Seok opens the curtain to let his daughter in and she pushes him outside to keep him from entering. 'What are you doing?'

'Don't go in.'

*It's the second time, today*

[Flashback changing-rooms before the ballet lesson] 'No!' Shouts suddenly Rae Yeon, yanking on her dad's hand.

'What is it?'

'You can't go in. You're a man.'

'Wha- You'll be able to change yourself?'

'Yes, wait here.'

'Are you sure?'

She nods and walks away to the ladies room. [end of flashback]

*Rae Yeon seems firm when it comes to changing clothes*

Ho Seok smiles, dumb-founded and stands still beside her cabin, leaning against a wall.

'Why is she being like this? I wonder who I wash at home ? Maybe it wasn't my daughter.' (laughs) He asks himself, laughing at the situation. One of the vendors comes to him and suggest to help her to put the clothes on. 'The woman came to help you.'

*Ho Seok patiently for his daughter*

'You okay?' He leans his head near the curtains.

'I'll come out.' says her little voice muffled behind the thick fabric.

Suddenly, the curtains is pulled to the side and Ho Seok straightens himself, taking a few steps backwards.

[slow-motion] Rae Yeon comes out wearing the blue skirt and white shirt. *A pretty little fairy* She smiles at the camera while turning around and posing cutely. *Rae Yeon's finger heart*

'Wow! You're so pretty. / What do you think? / Do you like it? / Did you look in the mirror?/ Let's take a picture and send it to mom.' Ho Seok cannot take his eyes off of her.

'Don't raise it so high.' (laughs) He says, laughing when he sees Rae Yeon tugging on her skirt. She goes back to try the dress on.

'Ok, let's go. That's good. Let's buy these.' Ho Seok takes her clothes and let the woman help Rae Yeon put her own clothes back on while he walks to the checkout. Rae Yeon joins him.

*Ho Seok pays for the clothes*

The vendor gives him their bags after she wrapped the present.

'Thank you. Let's go. Say good-bye.'

They go out of the shop and go to the parking.

'Dad, thank you for the clothes!'

'Your welcome, sweetheart.'

                                                                                                          End of Day 1.

#bts scenarios #bts fluff #bts jhope #jhope fluff #bts imagines #jhope scenarios #jhope imagine #The Return of Superman #bts fathers #jung hoseok #hoseok #bts hoseok #bts hobi #bangtan sonyeondan

[heatherereyna]

Nikiforov Winery

Tote in hand, keys, where are the keys?  Got them. Phone, yep.  Ready to go.  GPS loaded into the phone.  Gotta have the directions, must not be getting lost.  Okay, have everything.  “Why am I so nervous?  Maybe because I am going to meet my Prince.” Laughing.

Driving thru France’s northeastern wine-growing region: a road trip through beautiful towns, lush vineyards, and breathtaking mountain roads, all while filling up on good food, great wine, and amazing sights.

 First stop was in Eguisheim.  Eguisheim is about an hour drive through most motorways.  Stopping for just a bit to get out and stretch the legs, see a few of the sights.  Its early and giving Yuuri plenty of time for a few side trips.  

 Eguisheim is considered the cradle of Alsatian Wine and Vineyard. Parking at the public park was convenient since the town square is only about 300 meters walking distance. Eguisheim is considered a medieval village.  It was believed to be conquered by the Romans in the 11th century.  Looking around, Eguisheim, it appears to be right out of a story book.  With its narrow and winding cobbled stone streets that are lined up with half-timbered houses and flowers spilling from everywhere.  No wonder it is was voted “Favorite French Village” Yuuri thought.  Taking in the charming views of the Chateau Saint-Leon, a former castle that was built in the 13th century that now serves as a chapel.  “So beautiful.” Yuuri’s eyes widened.  Grabbing for his camera wanting to take a few pictures and jotting down information in his notebook.  “This is good, all this inspiration that surrounds me.”  Putting pen to paper, not wanting to miss anything that he saw.  He was told by a local to take a walk along the Rue de Rempart Sud for the village’s most photogenic spots and to find L’Authentique Pain d’Epices bakery to get some pastries.  Which Yuuri thought one pastry will not hurt his figure.  He’ll spend an extra hour on the ice to make up for it.  Surprisingly, the village was not too busy, which was nice.  This let Yuuri really be able to stop and take a moment to appreciate everything without the crowds.  The Locals were very friendly.  Yuuri even had a few of the locals offer to take pictures with him in it.  That was nice.  The beautiful houses and monuments served as gorgeous backdrops.  Not wanting to leave, but he had already spent an hour there and he needed to move on.  Heading back up to his car.

 Leaving Eguisheim, heading for Lac du Ballon, which was 40km. This drive took Yuuri through winding mountain roads.  The mountain air was refreshing, windows rolled down.  “I should have rented a convertible.”  Thinking to himself.  Coming to the highest point of the drive, The Grand Ballon, which is the highest mountain of the Vosges, peaking at 1424 meters.  With breathtaking views from the summit.  Yuuri did some research and found out that this mountain got its name from ballon, a Frenh geographical term for a mountain with a rounded summit.  Parking to get out to take the leisurely walk around the summit and to take a few killer pictures.  Also, too, to jot down a few notes of what Yuuri saw.  “Such wonders of true amazement.” Thought Yuuri.

 Looking at this watch, still plenty of time.

 The next stop was in Kayserberg.  This is a well -preserved medieval town with more of the timbered houses, plus several very impressive structures like the Church of Sainte Croix and the 16th century stone bridge crossing the Weiss River.  The ruins of the Chateau de Kayserberg sit up on a hill as a reminder of its strategic importance during the times of war in the past.  This village was not as big as Eguisheim so Yuuri only spent about 30 minutes at this village.

 Continuing, was Riquewihr.  Now Riquewihr was full of tourist.  This village is considered a tourist favorite- its main street was thick with crowds either taking pictures of the beautiful village, notably the pinkish, flower-decked Dolder, a lookout tower, or spilling out of the nearby cafes and restaurants lining the street.  Yuuri, feeling the crowds, making it a bit harder to take his photos or being able to jot down words in his notebook, but he did manage.  After a quick circuit of the village, he wondered into a quaint wine cellar owned by Maison Zimmer, where he was able to taste some of the wines there.  Yuuri decided to take a bottle back home with him, picking up a Cremant d’Alsace. Feeling a bit hungry, he was told to try out lunch at Au Viex Riquewihr.  He ordered a tarte flambee, which was rather tasty, not too sweet nor too tart.

 Leaving satisfied, heading for Colmar.  Colmar is a well-preserved medieval town that was founded in the 19th century with numerous architectural landmarks and museums.  Colmar is well known for its architecture, food, language, and culture.  Colmar also enjoys a sunny microclimate and is one of the driest cities in France, all thanks to the Vosges mountains that shield it from precipitation.  This makes for an ideal terroir to grow the most world-class wines.  

 Colmar is also known as “Little Venice,” a district filled with flower-decked canal lined by half timbered houses and specialty shops along with great restaurants.

 Yuuri found other architectural landmarks to visit such as: St. Martin’s Church – made with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements; and well-preserved medieval buildings like Maison Pfister, Maison des Tetes, and Maison Adolph.  

 Yuuri was told for chocolates, to stop at by the Jacques Bockel chocolaterie.  For cheese, particularly the local Munster cheese, and sausages, the Chez Thierry. Both, which were on Yuuri’s list to visit and buy from anyhow.

 After exploring Colmar, Yuuri was found driving over to Haut-Koenigsboug. This was a quick hour drive.  Feeling more anxious, the next stop after Haut-Koenigsboug was Nikiforov Winery.  

 Arriving at Haut-Koenigboug, also a medieval chateau that lies in the mountains, strategically located on a rocky ridge overlooking a plain.  This village was used by royal families, robber baron, and invading troops from the Middle Ages until it was abandoned in the 17th century.  Now, it’s become a popular tourist attraction and classified as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture.  

Just taking a few pictures and jotting a few notes, Yuuri decided it was time to leave and head for his destination, Nikiforov Winery.  He planned a tour of winery and was very much excited to get there.

 Seeing the Nikiforvo Winery just off in the distance, that blue castle stood out, so beautiful, Yuuri loved the color blue, his favorite.  There were also some cherry blossoms just off to the side of the castle.  This reminded him of his hometown back in Japan, full of cherry blossoms.  Turning down the cobblestone road, up ahead, the parking was just left of the castle, seeing the tour bus.  He knew that a tour of the winery would be splendid, he did the full tour package, which included going to the barrel room, where they produce the wine and stored it, along with a tour of the vinelands, lunch at Nikiforov Restaurant, the wine cellar, which was also the tasting room that served different types of fruit and different types of cheeses.  Finishing the tour was a stop at their local Wine Bar.  “This is going to be the most splendid day.” Thought Yuuri.  

 Finally pulling up to the parking area, wanting to get out to snap a few quick photos before the tour started.  “Yep, have about 20 minutes before I load the tour bus.”  Awesome.  Getting out, giving a stretch, walking over the amazement that stood in front of him. “Wow!” Staring.  The castle even looked more amazing up-close.  It was so vividly blue, with specks of gold and pinks. Just gorgeous.  The castle sat up on just a little hill, surrounded in green meadow grass with flowers scattered thru out and a path that led up to the castle. The sky was a perfect blue with those pretty cumulus clouds.  Yuuri could not ask for a better afternoon.  Looking over at the cherry blossoms the sweet smells that were coming off them.  Just amazing. Taking a moment to take it all in, Yuuri had finally made it, he was here, here at Nikiforvo Winery.

 Turning to head over to check in, this poodle came running over.  That poodle was the cutest poodle that Yuuri ever saw and it was running right towards him.  Jumping up, wanting to lick Yuuri, ending over to pet this very friendly poodle, looking to see whose poodle this belonged too, and then Yurri heard him, that very familiar French accent.  The one he heard at that wine store.  “Makka, down. Leave this pretty boy alone now.” Spoken by Christoph.

 “Yuuri, I am glad you got the invitation.” Meaning from that bottle of wine that Christoph had gave to Yuuri at the wine store.  “Ummm, hi Christoph.  What are you doing here?” Asked Yuuri.  “Oh, I work here.  I’m the tour guide.  I did hope you signed up for the tour?” Trying to look over at Yuuri’s ass.  “Yes, I did sign up for the tour.  Does that mean your going to be the guide?” Yuuri hoping that Christoph was not going to make it awkward.  Cause Yuuri was already feeling awkward but he was not going to back out of this.  He was there for a reason and that reason was hoping that he was going to meet that Prince of his.  “Yes, and don’t worry pretty boy, no wandering hands, even though I would love to let my hands wander, I’ll keep this professional.”  Teasing.  Yuuri feeling his cheeks becoming very red while Christoph gave a chuckle.  

 “Yurio, Yurio, come take Makka.  I need to get ready for this tour now.” Calling over to a younger blonde that looked like he wanted to punch someone thought Yuuri.  Yurio came over to grab Makka, an unwilling Makka, but he managed to pull her away.  “Tsk Christoph, already hitting on the tourist.  You don’t wait.  And you know whose type this fellow is….” Yurio got interrupted really fast.  Yuuri wondered what that was about, but heard Christoph telling him that he better get moving and get over to check in cause the tour was going to be leaving soon.

 Yuuri checking in, getting his name tag, heading over to the bus, wanting to have this afternoon started, feeling very excited and anxious.  Anxious knowing that Christoph was going to be the tour guide. Christoph kinda scares Yuuri, with his very upfront expressions and wondering eyes.  “I shouldn’t worry, this is going to fine.  He is going to be professional.” Hopefully.  Finding a seat, up towards the front, even though he would be closer to Christoph, he wanted to be able to hear everything and especially be able to ask anything if something came up.  Christoph nodding approval as Yuuri sat up towards the front.

 As the tour bus was leaving the parking lot, Christoph started with the history of the Castle and winery.  It was not always a winery; the castle was built back in the late 14 centuries.  It was one of Louis XII scattered castles. He was often found there when he wanted to get away.  After Louis XII passed, it was taken over by his daughter, Claude of France.  Claude of France was married to Francis of Angouleme. Francis of Angouleme passed in 1547. They had no son.  Claude of France stayed on until she passed.  The castle remained untouched for years.  It was not until the House of Habsburgs took over.  The castle was occupied just until the early 19 Century.  It was than taken over by Nikiforvo Family, who turned this so-called castle into the Winery that it is today.

 Yuuri was making sure that he was jotting everything down in his notebook, as he did not want to miss a thing.  And it helped that Christoph asked if anything needed to be repeated, which, Yuuri had asked and Christoph was more than happy to repeat himself while winking at Yuuri.

 Continuing, looking at the grape vines on both the right and left side of the bus, what a sight to see. They seem to go for miles. Amazing.  Wondering if it would ever be possible to walk through the vines, eating a grape here and there.  In a daze, day-dreaming of walking between these vines with his Prince.  Looking up, noticing that Christoph was looking right at him with the biggest smirk as if already knowing what Yuuri was thinking.  Feeling his cheeks get red, looking away rather quickly.

 Yuuri noticed that the tour bus was starting to slow down, looking up, seeing a separate building, wondering what this place was and just like that Christoph began to speak. “This here is the where the wine gets produced and stored.  “Once the bus comes to a complete stop, we will be getting out and taking the tour. Yuuri, would you like to lead?” As Christoph was smiling.  “Ummm, sure, I guess.” Blushing once again.

 Heading into the building, Christoph just slightly ahead of Yuuri began explaining the process.  “First the grapes have to harvest.  This process is where as the grapes ripen, their sugar content increases and their acid content decreases.  The trick is to harvest them at the time when the balance is between when the acid and sugar levels are just right.” Explaining and pausing for those to take in this process and for Yuuri to get caught up in his note taking.  Continuing, “This process is a learned process, once mastered, you have the most delish wine, right Yuuri?”  Why was Christoph so intent with only mentioning him when there were plenty of others on this tour.  “I guess so. I am not sure of the process.  I only started drinking wine.”  Bleatingly stating.  Christoph looking over at Yuuri.  “Oh Yuuri, I must say, you are a wonder.”  

 Christoph moving on, “Once the harvest is complete, the grapes are collected, with he stems removed and the grapes are crushed.  This is done so that juices are released more easily during the pressing.” Any questions? Yuuri almost raised his hand but decided to wait.  “Next comes the pressing.  As you can see over here to your right where we have the crushed grapes being pressed the old-fashioned way, by a presser, hands on.” Yuuri caught Christoph looking over at him as he was stating the hands on part.  How was this man being so openly flirtations with him, unbelievable?  “Next comes the fermentation and then the aging/maturation process in the barrels, then the final product goes into the bottles.” Chris looking over to the left.

 “As you can see, to the left, the process is somewhat different, the crushed grapes are fomented first.  This is for the Red wine.  The pressing comes after the fermentation.  You might notice that the skins on the red grapes stay on during this process.  This is where the color comes from.  The skins are removed after and then the crushed grapes are pressed.” Looking around to make sure everyone understood.  Seems like it.  Good. “Of course, the aging/maturation is the same process as the white, in specific barrels and then put into the bottles to be sold.”

 “Now are there any questions?” Asked Christoph.  Yuuri hesitating, “How long is the aging process?”  Eagerly to answer, “Anywhere from 6 months to 5 years.  Whites tend to age less as to where reds can age longer.” Any other questions?  “Ummm, how do you determine what barrels to use?  I mean, are there different types of barrels or is it just oak?” Yuuri asked. “We only use Oak barrels in the aging process.  The barrels either come from here or we import them from the states, which is rare. It is how long that wine is aged for is what determines the complexity of the flavor.  The longer the wine is aged, the stronger taste in the oak and vanilla one might taste.” Impressed with that question.  Christoph felt that Yuuri was really wanting to take in the process.  Good, he thought as Victor would be very happy to know that he was taking an interest. All part of the plan.  “Any other questions?” Waiting for a moment, “No?  Alright, let’s head back to the bus.”

 Back on the bus, the next stop was Nikiforov Restaurant, which was also on site but about a mile away, still on Nikiforov property.  Impressed with its size.  The mile drive still had the grapevines on both the left and right side of the cobbled road.

 The restaurant was not really that big.  Kinda quaint Yurri thought.  Wondering what the lunch was going to be.  Everything was prepared in this package.  Stopping, everyone getting off, some of the tourists were talking with Christoph.  As Christoph had mentioned earlier that this was a leisure lunch, they had 90 minutes here at the restaurant and could therefor get their prepared lunch at will.  As long as they were back on the bus in 90 minutes.

 Christoph looking over towards Yuuri, looking like he was trying to break away for the tourist that surrounded him.  Yuuri was somewhat thankful for that, as he wanted to take a few photos and go over his notes.  He made his way inside the restaurant.  It was nice. The tables looked to be made of oak, fresh flowers in the vases.  Each table had a vase.  Pictures of the winery on the wall.  Heading over to those pictures, trying to see if there was anyone that was not in the pics online.  Sighing, no luck.  Yuuri was hoping to get a glimpse of that Prince he was hoping to find.  Stomach growling, he went to find a seat over by the window.  Luckily the place was not booming.  Sitting down, the server came over and saw that he was part of the tour.  

 “I’ll be right back with your food sir.” She stated.  She had a very pleasant smile.  Short, wavy, reddish brown hair with blue eyes.  She was attractive, but of course, not Yuuri’s type.  Making sure to catch her name when she came back.  Wonder what the food is going to be?

 Coming back with a plate that looked like it had chicken and a spring salad.  Mila, that was on her name tag.  “Thank you, Mila, this looks wonderful.  Please compliment the chef.” Stated Yuuri.  Nodding her head, asking if Yuuri wanted a complimentary glass of wine. “Yes please.  What do you recommend?” Yurri asked.  “The Riesling would go very nice.  It compliments the herbs in the grilled Tuscan chicken.”  Mila responded.  Yuuri nodded in agreement.  Taking a small bite of the chicken, so good, so very good.  Having the wine put down by Christoph rather than Mila, “May I join you Yuuri now that I have a moment?”

 “Sure.” Responded Yuuri. “How do you like the tour so far? Anything that I can do to make this more interesting for you?”  Grinning. “Uh, no.” Feeling a bit overwhelmed now. “Why does he have to hit on me so hard?” Yuuri thinking to himself.  “So, was it hard for you to find this place and how was your drive?” Christoph wanting to know.  “Good. I allowed enough time to stop along the way.  I only wished that I had a convertible, the air is so nice.”  Smiling now.  “That is not the only thing that is nice.” Christoph winking at Yuuri making his cheeks turn a shade of pink.  How Christoph loved doing that, making Yuuri blush constantly.  But Christoph was only being Christoph, he knew who was interested in Yuuri and he was not going to deny his best friend.  “Um, Christoph, Um, I’ve been meaning to ask since I saw you at the castle.  Um, did you see me before the wine shop back in town?”  Blushing a bit more.  Trying to think of how to word this without giving anything away.  Well, he really did not see him at the Bar back near the wine shop.  Victor had told him that he saw an Angel and after the description, he put it together in the wine shop.  “No, I just met you in the wine shop and it desperately looked like you needed some help.” Well, he was not lying.  “Oh, Ok. Thanks Christoph.” Sighing.  But I guess that is good, because he was not hoping that this was supposed to be his Prince.

 Finishing up his meal and wine.  Which the wine did pair rather well with the Tuscan chicken.  He would have to remember to thank Mila.  Getting ready to get back onto the bus as it was almost time. He did enjoy chatting with Christoph, once he got past Christoph’s flirtatious behavior, he was actually a very nice and knowledgeable guy.  Christoph was already heading out by the bus.  Yuuri, stopping by to thank Mila.  “I really enjoyed the lunch and wanted to thank you for the wine suggestion.  It did compliment the chicken very nicely.” Smiling rather wide.  “Oh, your welcome.  I hope you get to meet…..” almost ruining it, Christoph yelled over, interrupting Mila. “Yuuri, come on now.  We have more to see.”  

 Getting back on the bus, Christoph explained the next stop was the wine cellar back over in the castle where they would be tasting different wines paired with different cheeses and fruit.  Yuuri was really looking forward to this part of the tour.  He definitely would be able to take this knowledge back to his flat and feel more confident in buying wine the next time.  Christoph was giving some information regarding the restaurant, back when it was decided upon to be built and be part of Nikiforvo Winery.  Yuuri taking this all in and making sure to add notes in his notebook.

 Sitting in his seat, his mind wondering, he stated to think about what Mila was about to say before she was interrupted by Christoph.  He looked like he was glaring at her as well.  Did she know something?  How he wished that she was not interrupted.  Hopefully he’ll get some answers soon, oh how he so hoped.  Feeling a bit anxious now.

  Arriving back at the castle, getting off the bus, waiting to be led down to the wine cellar. He saw that blonde kid with the Makka. Now what was that kids name again, oh yeah, Yurio.  How could he forget that, since it was so close to his own?  It looked like that he had a pretty good grip on that leash since it appeared Makka wanted to run back over to him, laughing.  Makka really was a beautiful poodle.  Poodle’s made Yuuri’s heart melted.  He did wonder if Makka belonged to Yurio.  That would be odd if she did, cause Yurio did not look like the type to want to own a dog, cat yes, but dogs no.

 Getting shuffled down to the wine cellar, it was kinda cool.  Not a cold temperature, but a nice cool one.  Most likely for the wine.  There was a lot of wine.  There were several small tasting tables set up with different types of cheese.  There was cheddar, Munster, brie, swiss, blue cheese, and goat cheese.  They also had grapes, strawberries, apples, and pears.  There were bottles of white, roses, and reds.  Yuuri was really looking forward to this.  Each table had specific wines with the cheese and fruits. Not all the tables were alike Yuuri noticed.

 “Gather around please. If we can make small groups, five groups of five, one group at each table and then we’ll rotate.” Stating Christoph.  “Please watch me as I demonstrate how to taste the wine.”  Twirling the wine glass just a bit, making the wine swirl in the glass, taking a small sip, swishing it around in his mouth, letting it linger for just a moment before swallowing.  “This will give you the full flavor and allows the wine to linger on your tongue.  Now take a normal sip and pair it with any of the fruits you have in front of you.  After take a bit of the cheese.” Christoph stated.  Make sure you rinse you mouth with the water before moving to the next table, spitting it out in the empty glass before you.” No easier way of explaining that part of it.  

 Moving from table to table, Yuuri was rather enjoying himself.  Lost in thought, hoping that he can do this with his Prince.  That would be nice.  If he can find his Prince here, not even sure if that is going to happen or not.  But then there was Mila and what was it she was going to say?  He still wondered about that.  Also, he had not forgot about Yurio.  Yurio was going to make some comment as well.  Maybe he will have to come back another day to eat at that restaurant to ask her a few more questions or hopefully catch Yurio.

 Christoph, looking over at Yuuri, knowing his thoughts, starts to ask some questions to the guests or to him specifically.  “Yuuri, do you have favorite here?  Red, rose, or white?” Asking.  “Uh, I prefer the white.  I like how I can taste the subtle hints of the oak and vanilla.  I rather enjoyed it paired with the pears.  I found that the taste bought out the flavor more of the pear.” Feeling proud, like he learned something, well, he did.  “I’m impressed Yuuri.  I think you have learned quite a bit on this tour.  I am most glad I was your teacher.” Grinning ear to ear.  

 “Ok, who is ready to head up to the bar?” Christoph almost saying that with some meaning behind it Yuuri thought.  

 Heading up to the bar with the rest of the group and Christoph, Yuuri did not know what to expect.  

 The bar was rather nice. It did not have the oak tables as did the restaurant had.  The tables were more marble.  There were a few booths that were up against the outer wall.  The floor was marble as well.  There were a few high tables with high bar stools scattered though out. There were some high tables that did not have bar stools.  Yurri guessed this was for those that just wanted to stand and not sit.  The bar was made of marble as well.  There was a waterfall behind the bar, in the middle section.  Yuuri thought that was a nice, added touch.  The bar consisted mostly of wines, but there were some other liquors. Not a lot, as this was a winery and Yuuri thought that it should mostly consist of wine.  The bartender seemed intense.  Kinda shaved on the side and back of his head.  Dark hair, shorter than Yuuri.  Otabek, the name on his nameplate.  “What can I get you?” Asking Otabek  “I’ll take a glass of that Riesling right there.” Yuuri responded.  “Hey Christoph.  How was the tour?” Looking towards Christoph.  “Oh, it went rather well, looking over at Yuuri, what do you think Otabek?”  Yuuri feeling that he was in the middle of something but did not know what it was.  “Yeah.” Agreeing with Christoph.  “Um, what’s going on?  Am I missing something here?” Yuuri chiming in.  

 Just then, Yuuri turns around as sees it.  The same piano that was in the bar not far from his flat.  No one was sitting there though.  His chest tightened.  He was feeling all sort of feels.  Breathing became labored.  Hoping someone was going to come out to play.  Hoping that this person was his Prince.  Walking over toward the piano, just wanting to touch it, reaching out, but bring his hand back, not sure if he could or not.  He needed to know….he needed to know who played that piano?

 Both Otabek and Christoph looked over at Yuuri, grinning.  “So how much longer do you think?” Otabek asking of Christoph.  “For his sake, I hope not much longer.  He has been getting anxious.  Just look at him Otabek, over there by the piano, wanting something to happen or someone to come out.  I only wished he took a liking to me.” Smirking.  “You’ll find someone.  I am sure of that.” Otabek stating.  “He did say that he was going to be back here before all these folks left, right Christoph?” Making sure.  “Yeah, he called me, hoping that this browned eyed boy was here. He was taken back when I told him that he was here and doing the tour.  Victor stammered a bit and told me he was on his way.  I told him that this was going to work.” Christoph chucking.  “He is most likely speeding over here as we speak.  I bet you.” Joking.  “Nah, I am not going to take that bet because I know that is exactly what he is doing.”  Stating the obvious.  “Hush now.” Whispered Christoph.  Yuuri was heading back over to the bar where Otabek and Christoph were sitting, being rather quite all of a sudden.  

 “Um, anyone play that piano?” Yuuri nervously inquiring.  “Yes.” Responded Christoph.  “Um, OK, are you going to tell me who or when?” Nervously stuttering.  Christoph, just looking up, giving the most, biggest, smile possible.  

 Just then, the piano music started and Yurri turned around, it was him…..

[coshayphinelove]

@lifeandlongstretch I know this isn’t exactly what you wanted, but I got excited and went rogue.  Hope you can still enjoy this and thanks for the prompts and never ending support <3

The arrangement wan’t ideal, but they just didn’t have the space at the spa for her.  So until they renovated, Shay and a few of the other massage therapists had to work from an apartment nearby.  

She went about her day in the two bedroom apartment that served as her office.  She had a referral today: a friend of Cosima’s.  (Cosima that had almost been something after high school, but college had gotten in the way.)  

This friend was clearly a setup.  Cosima had been very clear that Dr. Delphine Cormier is bi and chronically single and nice and pretty and smart and perfect for you Shay! 

Shay wondered if she was so perfect, why wasn’t Cosima dating her?

She ducked behind the curtain hanging between two room dividers to see her next client sitting awkwardly on the table, still fully clothed in her suit.

“Hi, you must be Dr. Cormier,” Shay greeted with her usual fake smile she reserved for customers.

She nodded, “Delphine,”  she corrected.  She held out her hand for a shake which wasn’t unheard of, but still a little formal for someone who was about to rub your naked back, “You must be Shay.”

“I am,” Shay said with a genuine smile.  Cosima was right about everything but she hadn’t mentioned French.  “So what brings you here other than our over excitable mutual friend?”

Delphine shrugged.  “She says I stress too much.  I told her that I stress the perfect amount.  She sent me to you saying that if you couldn’t help then she would let it drop.”

“That’s a lot of pressure,” Shay laughed.  “Do you want to get started?” she gestured at Delphine’s clothes, “I can’t really do my job if you’re still dressed.”

“Oh,” Delphine laughed, “I wasn’t really sure how this worked.”  Her already rosy cheeks flushed a deeper red.  Does she also know that this is a setup or is she just awkward?

“That’s totally okay!” Shay reassured.  “Take off as many clothes as you’re comfortable with.  There’s some shorts in that drawer underneath you and towels to cover up with.  I’ll give you a couple minutes.  Just lay down on the table on your stomach when you’re ready.”

Delphine nodded stiffly.  Shay ducked out under the curtain.  She pulled her phone out of her pocket and shot a ‘You’re so dead’ text to Cosima.

She waited the length of one chorus of “Kissed a Girl” by Katie Perry which was stuck in her head, and totally unhelpful of her subconscious, before approaching the door again.  “Delphine?  Are you ready?”

A weak, “Ou-yeah.  Yes,” carried over the curtain.  Poor girl, Shay thought to herself.   She entered slowly.  She made sure to make plenty of noise as she approached.  “So, do you want me to focus on anything specific or do you just want me to go nuts?”

“I don’t really know.”

“Okay, well I’ll just work on your back and see where the tension is.  Is that okay?”

Delphine nodded.

Shay got her oils out and started her work.  There were quite a few knots in her upper back.  She didn’t want to say anything, she was going to help Delphine win her argument with Cosima.  

“So I know you work with Cosima, but what do you specifically do?” she started the small talk.  She wanted to put Delphine at ease.  And maybe learn a little about this bombshell that was most likely here trying to get set up.  There’s nothing wrong with taking an opportunity when it arrives, Shay reasoned with herself.

“Basically the same thing.  I just have to write the reports,” Delphine grunted at the end.  Shay had found a particularly hard knot.  

“Hmm, fancy.  Does that hurt?”

“A little.”

Shay lessened the pressure and asked, “Better?”

“Oui.”

“Is that French French or Québécoise?” Shay asked.  She usually tried to make small talk with clients but she was actually interested this time.

Delphine shrugged a little, “Québécoise is French.”

Shay laughed.  “Sorry, maybe I wasn’t clear.  I’m trying to sneakily ask you where you’re from without sounding like a broken record.”

“Oh,” Delphine laughed lightly.  “A little bit of both I guess.  I was born in France but my parents moved us to Quebec when I was sixteen.”

“Oh, cool,” Shay murmured.  She was distracted by a knot right over Delphine’s rib cage.

After a few moments of grunting and then a sigh of relief after the knot was released Delphine asked, “So is that English English or Canadian?”

Shay laughed.  “Canadian.  I’m from a suburb just outside the city.”

“That must be nice,” Delphine muttered.

“What?” Shay asked.

Delphine laughed nervously, “Well I haven’t lived in Lille for ten years but I can probably still navigate it perfectly.  But here, in Toronto, I still have to use a GPS to get everywhere.”

“Well how long have you been here?”

“Seven months?  A little less.”

“And you lived in Lille for what, sixteen years?”  When Delphine nodded she continued, “It’s just practice.  Come back to me in fifteen years and then tell me that you don’t know how to get around.”

Delphine laughed.  “Okay.”

They fell into a comfortable silence.  Shay went about her work, proud when Delphine’s back started to loosen.  Shay laughed to herself when Delphine’s hand fell off the table.  The deep breathing and limp arm were tell-tale signs that she’d fallen asleep.

Cosima had been right about Delphine’s stress levels.  But she was never going to say that out loud.  

She finished the massage as she usually did.  Honestly, it was easier to do her job when people fell asleep anyway.  But it was awkward to wake strangers up.

She wiped her hands clean and walked up to Delphine’s head.  She had the urge to bury her face in her neck and leave little kisses to wake her up.  That was not a professional urge.

Instead she gently nudged her shoulder, “Delphine, I’m done.”

Delphine jolted and started to sit up.  As she realized she was not wearing a shirt she leaned back down.  She put a hand to her forehead, “Sorry.”

“It’s okay.  A lot of people fall asleep.  Just be glad you’re not one of the people who fart.”

“What?” Delphine giggled and blushed.

Shay laughed, “Some people get so relaxed that they pass gas.”

Delphine laughed with her.  “I am glad that that’s not me.”

“I’m gonna step outside and let you get dressed.  Come out when you’re ready,” Shay said.

“Okay.”

When Shay did all the check-out work Delphine said something about coming back and asking if she needed it.  Shay said yes without proving Cosima right.  Some b.s. that everybody should get massages all the time, not some excuse to see Delphine again. 

When Delphine went on her way with promises to be back, Shay checked her phone.  She only had a text message.  It was from Cosima.

‘so what do you think?’

Shay smiled.  She thought a lot of things, none of which she was going to tell Cosima.

#ugh #finally #sorry this took so long but i got stuck in the middle and then got busy #delphine cormier #shay davydov #coshayphine #my fic

[teonikolova]

Things happen when you least expect them. For example I would have never considered moving to France and yet the opportunity came to me out of nowhere one day.Similar is the case here, as Israel was not in our travel list for this year, but my husband sent here urgently for a few weeks due to work. So I decided that this was a sign, and I shouldn’t miss this opportunity so I decided to tag along. 

So here is how the story begins.

We landed on Saturday evening after 5 hour flight, and everything was closed as it was Shabat so if you are planning your travel bear this in mind.We did manage to find a Japanese restaurant (Japanika) which was open. I think we were lucky because it was also very delicious.We kept coming back every other night there.

The next day we woke up early and decided to start exploring the city of Tel Aviv.I did make some plans ahead of what should we visit, but my main wish was just to walk around and explore random streets and mix with the locals.

When you read for Israel often, the information is wrong and advises you how dangerous it is but honestly I felt so much safer than many other places, even Paris where I live for the past 5 years.

My first day was amazing I walked31km around Tel Aviv just exploring the city on foot.

Going around Tel Aviv can be very easy, if you do not wish to walk you can use public transport.You will need to buy a card called Rav-Kav which is reusable contactless stored value smart card for making electronic payments in public transportation. 

Walking

Walking is by far the most pleasant way to get around the city. Because Tel Aviv isn’t big, getting from one end to the other won’t take you much more than an hour. With great weather year-round, walking is a great way to get some vitamin D and exercise. Finding your way is very easy with Google Maps. If you don’t have a cell phone service when you’re here, turn on just GPS or download an offline map and you’re good to go!

Bike around

Tel Aviv is extremely bike friendly, and pretty much everyone in Tel Aviv goes around by bike.Biking lanes connect the entire city, and bikes can be rented at pretty much every corner.

Rent Scooter

Tel Aviv has variety of ways for transportation and one is the electric scooter. The service allows riders to pick up scooters anywhere and ride them for as long as necessary. Riders are charged per minute, and everything is done through the company’s app on a smartphone.

I really felt at home in Tel Aviv, just the way the streets are and the culture of the people.I would not consider moving in Israel as still this is much more religious country for my taste, but I felt comfortable and safe for the timebeing in Tel Aviv.I guess I should have known that I would have fallen for Tel Aviv, because how can you not love cities by the sea.I think there is something special about this kind of cities.

Tel Aviv is blessed with really good urban beaches. Whether for a simple walk along the waterfront during the fall or spring season or a dip in the clear Mediterranean waters when the temperatures rise, going to the beach is among the things to do in Tel Aviv for either fun and relaxation. I noticed that bunch of them was also pet-friendly! I can say overall Tel Aviv is pet friendly and there was dogs everywhere I went. 

It was already the late afternoon on our first day when my husband, who was just finishing work joined me. He came at the best time as the sun started setting, the light was simply stunning and we could not get enough of it. We both were so happy to dip our feet in the water, whenever we go somewhere sunny and nice, nothing can keep us away from the water. The water was very chilly still, I guess as even though it is 20 degrees it is still February.

Now we had completely lost track of time just talking and just enjoying the lovely colors in the sky. It was time to walk back and find something for dinner as we were both starving. 

The light is special at sunrise and sunset, so I am really happy we got to see it not once but almost every night we were there. Indeed, one of the nicest things to do in Tel Aviv is admiring the sunset along the waterfront.

Explore the markets.

Locals know that the best produce, fresh-squeezed juices, hot off the oven bread, melt in your mouth hummus, and fresh herbs and spices can be found at the shuk (market). Markets, indoors and out, are very much a part of the locals of Tel Aviv. Each has its own unique charm and character, offering shoppers the chance to explore exotic foods and other staples in authentic locations.

I had the time to visit only Sarona Market and later the Carmel Market.

I like food markets. I find them to be the perfect place to learn more about the culture of the city and blend with the locals. Also to observe the behavior of people at the market. Be advised that in Israel you can always bargain the prices, they really like bargaining with tourists. So shop and haggle like a local, and don’t give up until you’ve gotten yourself a deal

Besides, markets are the best places to get some cheap yet tasty street food. Sure enough, going to Carmel Market is a must if you are in search for fresh produce and good street food.

The Sarona Market is closed modest market where you can find a lot of spices and nuts, olives, gelato and some modern food stores, but there is a lot of small street food places inside the market where you can have a taste of the local cuisine.

Other popular Tel Aviv markets include Hatikva in South Tel Aviv, Levinsky in Florentin.

The next day I decided to take it slow and chill a bit go somewhere first for breakfast and then figure out where to go and what to see.

I sat in a local cafe and order what was in the menu as “Breakfast for One” after 15 min a man came bringing me everything that I can think of from bread, butter and hummus to hard-boiled eggs. I regret not taking pictures of the breakfast, as it was huge, but I was enjoying it too much.

You should try the breakfast in Tel Aviv, it reminds me so much of home and what most French people would consider brunch not breakfast. When it comes to breakfast, Israelis take it to a whole new level. Salads, bread, tahini, eggs and other deliciousness are ever present at any proper breakfast table there. In Tel Aviv, breakfast is the most important meal, so I can tell you it is very rich and feeling. Israel is full with fantastic restaurants where take pride in showing tourists what food in Israel is all about. As believe it or not Israel is not only Hummus, yes it is amazing but you can also eat it at home, so I advise you to try other local treats do not just concentrate or Falafels and hummus.

Heaven for Vegetarians and Vegans

Big part of Israeli food is naturally vegan, and this is probably the most vegan friendly country you will come across, where every restaurant is offering multiple choices for vegan dishes and some restaurants solely focusing on vegan cuisine, so this will be your heaven.

  Now let’s talk about some of my favourite sour pastry called Boureka.

Boureka is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and /or other ingredients. It’s perfect for breakfast on the go. You’ll find it at any bakery.

This is a standard breakfast pastry for us in Bulgaria also, but we eat it with a lot of white cheese and butter. Here they serve it with hummus, pesto or boiled egg inside and crunchy pickles on side. When they asked me “what would you like inside,” I said nothing and the person looked at strangely… I really just wanted to take it plane first, obviously I tried it with hummus and egg inside also, and spoiler… alert it was really delicious.

Israel has incorporated a lot of cheese in their cuisine, so I asked what type of cheese it is, and local people explained to us that if the milk or cheese is not specified, therefore, this is always Cow’s milk made. If it is sheep, Camel or goat you will definitely see it written in the box. As I am coming from Bulgaria for me, white cheese is also always made with cow‘s milk, but living in France white/feta cheese here is made from sheep or goats milk, which I actually dislike, so I need it to be sure is not feta just white cheese. 

Challah

Probably the most famous Jewish bread, challah is often eaten during Sabbat dinner. It’s a bit dry-is and it is a bit sweet but not as sweet as Brioche or Stollen/Kozunak.

I remember when I went for very first time in US in 2011 I worked for a bagel Bakery/Deli/Inn and I used to take care of the owners three kids as my side job. They were Jewish so every Sabbat I was with them and was lucky as they shared their Sabbat traditions for the short time I spend with them, so they would always bake and offer Challah on Friday at the Bakery.

Explore Old Jaffa.

Old Jaffa a beautiful little town considered part of the greater Tel Aviv area and one of the best places to visit in Tel Aviv. I actually decided to do a 2-hours tour for free there. (if you decide to try, they have free tours with the Sandman webpage.) There are daily free walking tours of Old Jaffa that depart at 11 am and 2:00 pm from the Clock Tower. You will be asked to leave a tip for the tour, as nothing is actually free in Israel, but you can leave what you find appropriate. I did sew people who left as soon as the tour asked for tips, though. I did thought it was a bit rude as the woman who did the tour was very nice, given us a lot of info and also funny.

So we started walking through the narrow streets of Jaffa, passing by the Clock Tower, the Flea Market, the Wishing Bridge, Andromeda’s Rock and Al-Bahr Mosque. And we ended up in Jaffa Port, where we joined in the crowds inside Old. Jaffa.

Old Jaffa, the oldest part of Tel Aviv (whose city by the way, is a UNESCO site)

Jews, Christians and Muslims living in harmony in a small district of Tel Aviv.

Jaffa (yaffo in Hebrew) is about 3,500 years old. Ancient Egypt ruled Jaffa around 1500 B.C. then it kept changing hands – ruled by Philistines, Israelites, Moslems, Mamluks, Crusaders, Ottomans, British, Israel. Jaffa is mentioned in the Bible – as the port to where Jonah fled fearing the wreath of God. Napoleon put a siege around the walls of the town, conquered it and his soldiers conducted a bloody massacre there. Later the walls came down.

  Today Old Jaffa is part of Tel Aviv. It has been reconstructed but still remains an ancient, charming place. It includes a fishermen’s port , exotic allies and antique buildings, lots of art galleries and shops of antiquities, great restaurants (I was surprised to find a Bulgarian restaurant there, until the tour guide actually said that Bulgarians re constructed the fishermen’s port.), a very interesting Flea Market, the wonderful St. Peter church and last, but not least – a great view of Tel Aviv and the shores of the Mediterranean.

  Experience Tel Aviv Things happen when you least expect them. For example I would have never considered moving to France and yet the opportunity came to me out of nowhere one day.Similar is the case here, as Israel was not in our travel list for this year, but my husband sent here urgently for a few weeks due to work. 

[tripstations]

The Camino de Santiago – The Portuguese Way

My Camino de Santiago is getting closer to being a reality. There are many Camino’s, but the one thing they have in common is the finish at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

It has been said that some people get the “bug” after one and then spend months and years planning the next one – and the one after that. This will be my first. I have chosen the Portuguese ‘Way’ for several reasons. It is the second most popular and therefore less crowded than the more popular French way, and I don’t like crowds. 

The culture and food of Portugal have always been of interest. The second part of my Camino is the Coastal Route of Portugal and like most New Zealander’s I can’t bear to be too far from the ocean.

People of all ages walk the Caminos for all number of reasons. For many, it is a religious pilgrimage, for others a way of dealing with personal loss or overwhelming life events. 

READ MORE: * The pain in Spain: Camino Skies star Terry Wilson sees the trek as a ‘metaphor for life’ * Camino Skies: NZ doco follows ‘broken’ Kiwis on road to Santiago * Galicia, Spain: Hiking the ‘last unspoilt coast of Europe’ * Just a mum on the Camino de Santiago

PAUL JOHNSON

Training walk Long Bay Cliffs

For me, it is simply because it is time. I have always had an interest and a desire, and with the passing of years, one of the wisdoms we will all come to know is “I’ll get around to doing it one day” is not actually going to happen without forward momentum. 

So, this is how I am getting to the start of my Camino.

I am 56, have had two hip surgeries, including a full replacement in November 2018. I have a knee that probably should be replaced, but while it is still functioning of sorts I intend to hang onto it for a while longer.

I suffered a pulmonary embolism in America at the start of a skiing holiday four years ago, so have learnt the importance of keeping active. 

Five months ago I was drinking too much and exercising too little, eating what I wanted but nothing good. I had successfully shed several kilos and wanted not only to keep them off but to continue to be active for as long as I could. So, I hatched a plan.

I never travelled alone in my younger years and have been with my husband since I was 18. It was not until I travelled alone back to Vancouver to visit family and surprise my mother for her 80th birthday that I realised something along the way. 

I had two stop-overs in Hawaii on the way to and from Vancouver, and I liked travelling alone and had no problems with my own company. It felt empowering to plan how to get from A to B and then actually arrive! Those that know me know that my sense of direction is non-existent and my ability to get lost heightened. But I guess sometimes you have to ‘get lost’ to appreciate the journey

So here I am, now just over a month to go. Back when there was 5 months to go I decided my next drop of wine would be a glass of bubbles at Auckland International Airport when I fly out to Lisbon Portugal via Doha to start my Camino. 

GAYLE JOHNSON

Training walk – Long Bay to Devonport – 24 kms.

Now that nearly four months have passed and there are just weeks left to go, I am down to the “pointy end” of the planning. And I am a “planner” – annoyingly so according to my husband. I have currently got four pairs of shoes in the ‘under consideration’ pile. 

Everyone seems to say your shoes and socks are two of the most important things you will take on this journey. Your shoes can not be shiny and new but must be rugged and broken in. Merino (some say) socks are best. There are several ways of dealing with inevitable blisters and foot pain – I have them all on my’ list’. 

I am currently tossing up between hiking shoes, that are aggravating a bunion, or swapping around two pairs of lightweight walking shoes that are not as sturdy, but for me more comfortable.

 My trials have resulted in both toenails of my second toe turning black and will no doubt fall off before I take my first steps in Lisbon – the result of older hiking boots that had done admirable service in the past and were no longer up to the task. Your feet change as you grow older – who knew? 

Especially “NZ” feet that spend so much time unencumbered by shoes either barefoot or in jandals for many months of the year.

I have made the decision to have my bag “transferred” from hotel to hotel. 

Some Camino purists might say that this is “cheating”, but with one hip replaced and one repaired, it is simply not an option for me to carry too many kilos on my back.

I am opting for a “day” hiking pack that will carry my essentials and which I have spent the last few months trying to decide what is, in fact, an “essential” and what is not. I think my day pack may be too small, but perhaps that is not a bad thing.

PENNY WARDLE

Tackling the Camino de Santiago.

I will have detailed maps and instructions, a mobile phone on roaming and there are even AP’s that will help me, but even with all of those, I will, at some stage, get hopelessly lost. As I said, I have no sense of direction, and there will likely be tears and tantrums though without the benefit of an audience, I will have to work it out myself.

After nearly 2 1/2 weeks walking from Lisbon to Porto my husband will be joining me for the Coastal Camino from Porto to Santiago. It will be nice to have some company, and share in part of my journey, although I am also looking forward to the initial solitary journey and walking alone. 

Some say you are never truly alone on the Camino as there are always other pilgrims to greet and walk with you, or to swap stories of the road with at the end of the day. But it is still a ‘lone’ journey as no one can take those steps for you. Yes, it is likely to be hard, but I am hoping one of my most memorable travel experiences.

Many pilgrims walk with the recognised sign of the Camino – a scallop shell the grooves of which represents all the Camino’ ways’ or trails finishing at the same point, the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. 

It is a way of identifying your fellow pilgrims on the road. With plentiful scallop shells on many of our beaches, I am taking a few, hand-painted in yellow – the colour of many of the arrows pointing directions on the various ways to Santiago – and embellishing them with little black kiwis with a yellow eye.

ISTOCK

Many travel the Camino de Santiago for different reason.

 I will carry one on my backpack to identify myself as a pilgrim but also a ‘Kiwi’ pilgrim. I hope to have enough of these made and varnished to protect them from the elements, so that I may give away one each day to someone I meet who helps make my Camino a more memorable journey.

I am in countdown mode now with just a matter of weeks to go. I have been studying maps and routes, working out the technology of a newly purchased mobile phone and linked watch with GPS and making my “list” which is being revised almost daily.

I recently got so see the NZ movie Camino Skies and had I not already booked to walk my own Camino this would have sent me straight into planning mode.

I especially like the advice given by pilgrim and walker Terry Wilson at the question and answer at the end of the viewing:

1. Never walk by anyone without asking if they need help.

2. Never walk by anyone who asks if you need help. Reason being if someone is asking you then you have probably missed something in yourself and likely do require the assistance of some sort.

3. Never walk past a toilet.

GAYLE JOHNSON

Work in progress ‘Camino’ scallop shells for a ‘Kiwi’ pilgrim.

I intend to walk my Camino employing this advice.

It is also apparently one of the only places in the world where you can get hugged from a stranger and indeed give a hug, without being arrested. 

I will reserve judgement on this one – I am not fond of my personal space being invaded.

I am, in equal parts excited and a bit scared but ready to tackle ‘My Way’ to Santiago de Compostela.

  The post The Camino de Santiago – The Portuguese Way appeared first on Tripstations.

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[leyendomagia]

eight;

The weekend came and the game was going to start, apparently in this game I would start, it was five in the afternoon and my family and I were in front of the TV tuning the game, my mother kept screaming every time Ben I played the ball, I laughed when I saw her so excited, my father just enjoyed the game, however I remained neutral, it's not that I do not like football, I liked it ... well before we met Ben, we only watched the games of the French team so I was not excited for another game, but now I was obliged to see them because according to Ben, he made me promise that he would see all his games and that in the end he would ask me questions, it was ridiculous. The first time ended and I stopped at the bathroom and my mom ran for more snacks in the kitchen. Fifteen minutes later the second half began, Ben had come out of the change.

"Well I'm leaving," I said, getting up from the couch.

-But the match is not over yet!

-It will not play Ben.

"It does not matter," my mother went on.

-Mom, I have things to do. Just tell me who wins, okay?

-I'll tell Ben you did not finish watching the game.

-Mom!

-Go and go.

I went up to my room, deep down I knew I would not say anything to him. I decided to take a quick shower before I started my homework.

I was going into the bathroom when I saw something white hanging on a chair, I approached and it was the shirt that Ben had given me, I took it and smelled it in case the doubts, it smelled clean, I smiled and I left it on my bed to put it on when I finished .

[...]

It was about two in the morning and I was still doing homework, it was Saturday, well actually very early Sunday, I wanted to finish everything as soon as possible so I could rest and have some free time.

I heard the main door close, my parents were already asleep, I went out into the hall and looked out. It was Benjamin, I did not think he would arrive at this time, rather I did not even expect him to arrive today, they traveled by bus so the transfers were slower.

-Hello. -he realized he was looking at him from the stairs.

-Hello. - She puts her things on the couch.

-Linda T-shirt -I looked what I was wearing, I did not even remember.

- Shut up, I had nothing else to wear.

"I'll be like I believe you." I rolled my eyes. "Hey, I'm hungry.

-Is seriously?

-Yep, let's find something to eat.

-Are you crazy? It's two o'clock in the morning, everything must be closed.

-It's Paris, there must be something open there, go downstairs and come on.

He was right, but if my parents realized that he was not home at that time they would worry. I was undecided but I think it would be fun, everything Ben was involved in was fun.

-I'm going; wait. -I came to my room and changed my slippers for some tennis and grabbed a sweatshirt that was out there, go down trying to make as little noise as possible.

"You are a bad influence," I said, standing beside him.

-Now we're going before you regret it.

The car was parked in the garage but luckily the door did not make any noise, we went up and Ben started driving, I knew I did not like to drive at night so he took the wheel.

I'm looking for an establishment open at this time in the GPS, found some fast food place so we went there.

On the way we did not stop talking and laughing. We said any nonsense and burst into laughter.

-Then if you feel like going to the bathroom during a game, do you hold on? -I looked at him trying to contain the laughter but it did not last ten seconds, the car became flooded with laughter.

-Do you really want to know? -I thought a moment.

-mmm no, thanks.

"We arrived," he said suddenly. I looked out the window and, although it was late in the morning, there were a lot of people on the street and several places open.

We got out of the car and I could feel the cold breeze on my face.

-Let's start walking towards the entrance, we were about to arrive when I could not stop shivering from the cold and I did not really know if it was too cold or it was just my question, why of course, it was a cold first. Ben noticed and took off his sweatshirt.

-put on this if you do not want a cold.

-It is not necessary.

-Ali, I'm not asking you.

"I have a jacket in the car, come on," I said and still put on my sweatshirt.

We returned to the car and took the jacket out of the suitcase, I returned his sweatshirt and put on the other garment, I did not want him to get sick either.

We went back to the place and they took care of us, Ben asked only for a chicken sandwich and a coffee and I ordered a strawberry milkshake because of his insistence that I eat something.

- You know, you could have eaten that in the house.

-I know.

-Y?

-I suddenly came up with this idea and I thought it would be fun, I also wanted you to be distracted a little from your homework.

-Thank you?

-You are welcome.

-You are a cretin.

- But an intelligent cretin - we laughed.

[...]

I opened my eyes with regret, the sunlight filtered through the thin curtains, what time was it? I looked for my mobile phone on the table next to my bed, it was hard for me to focus my eyesight, 1 o'clock in the afternoon! Oh my God! It was very late. I got up immediately and took a shower immediately to get rid of all the laziness.

Later I went down to the kitchen, dying of hunger.

-Good Morning! said my mother sarcastically.

-Good morning mom.

- Why did you get up so late? -I caught sight of Ben sitting in the living room, trying to contain the laughter.

-I stayed doing homework until very late.

-But you always do it and you never get up so late.

-Mom but today is Sunday. Sometimes I need to sleep, I'm not a robot.

-Yeah, you're right, well on the table there's a little food.

-Thank you.

He was starving, it seemed he had not eaten in days.

"I forgot to tell you that I'd like to invite you to dinner today." Ben suddenly spoke. He could hear it from here.

-Us? -my dad was surprised.

-Yes, everyone, I am already earning my own money so I would like to invite you as a thank you for all you have done for me.

-Oh dear, we would really like to go, but in the morning we received a call from my sister, her husband had an accident and we want to go see him.

-Oh! He is okay? Ben said worriedly.

-Yes, apparently it was only the scare but we want to make sure you are well and in the way to say hello to the family.

-Don't worry, I can still cancel the reservation.

-Did you have a reservation made? I said entering the room.

-Yes.

-Oh no! No way! You can go with Ali, she will stay at home, "my mother said.

-I'll stay?

-We do not know if we will return today and you have to go to school tomorrow, so you can not join us.

-Oh

-Don't worry, I can reschedule the reservation.

-No, no, go with Ali, it will go as our representation to that dinner. -said my father now.

I did not say anything, I was not against it, but I was not in favor of going either, I was in a neutral situation, we did not go to a restaurant with my family for a long time so it would be good to go now that someone proposed it.

[...]

It was six in the afternoon and I wanted to win everything that was in my way, just a few minutes ago Ben had sent me a message with the location of the place. I had the idea that there were places as elegant as that, but it never crossed my mind to stop at one of those in life!

According to the Internet, it was a somewhat exclusive place, and how could it not? If I forgot that Benjamin was already someone in the world of sports and could afford a little luxury.

Tired of thinking about what clothes I would wear, I threw myself into bed with stress to everything I gave.

-I do not want to go! I shouted for Benjamin to hear me from the other side of the wall.

-Let's go Ali! Do not be ridiculous! -answered

-You say why you are a man and men do not care so much about how to dress!

-I do not want!

-Ali please! -I was standing at my door with my arms crossed, I had to straighten my head to see it well. At what moment had I finished with my head?

-It's the last time! After this I will never re-invite another invitation as it is.

-Never say never Ali -he left the room -Never! -I heard him scream.

Two hours later I was ready. Too late choosing the clothes she would wear so that in the end she would determine that the dress I had worn at the high school graduation was the most elegant thing I had in my closet. {I leave the link of the dress in a comment}. I left my hair loose and took a small bag.

Ben was already waiting for me downstairs, when we got to him we just stared at each other.

-Is seriously? I said and he just shrugged indifferently. It took a few seconds for both of us to start laughing. He was wearing the same "and I think unique" suit he had worn at his graduation, and he knew that my dress had also been my graduation.

-I think we need to go shopping.

-Yep.

After laughing, we went to the car and got going. The place was about thirty minutes or so near the center of Paris.

-We arrived. -He said. -wait, do not get off.

-Hey? -I saw how he got out of the car and immediately opened the door and helped me down. -Is seriously?

-What?

- When do you open the door for me? I said, no doubt men become blue princes in this kind of places.

-Don't be a liar, I've made this gesture before.

-I'll like to believe you -I just wanted to upset him because I know he had done it before, only it was not a frequent habit in him and I had to talk so as not to get nervous. Of course he did not make me nervous, it was the place and the people who generated fear in me of making a fool of myself.

-Good evening, welcome to Boutary On whose behalf is your reservation? -They attended us immediately.

-Good evening, Benjamin Pavard.

- Very well, spend a moment here - directed us to a balcony - please wait in what they prepare your table.

-Clear.

I was admiring the view, it was certainly beautiful, you could see the Seine River in all its splendor, just at that moment my cell phone rang.

-Good? Mom? ... They just arrived? How is my uncle? ... We also just arrived ... yes, it's very nice ... no mom ... mom is just a dinner ... it's okay, see you later, take care, I love you.

-Already arrived? said Ben.

-Yeah, my uncle is fine and they'll come back tomorrow.

-I'm glad.

-Come in, please. said the hostess.

-Eh yes a moment.

"What's wrong," said Ben.

-My mom insisted that we send her a picture of us.

-Really?

-Yes -I closed my eyes.

-Would you please take a picture please? Ben said to the kind young man who looked after us.

-Clear. -I gave him my cell phone and the boy took the picture -I'm sorry I got involved in matters that do not belong to me, but they really make a beautiful couple.

What? Nobody had told us that before, they all thought that we were just brothers and that is how they would not think about it? if we have the same skin tone, the same color of hair and eyes, unlike him he had wavy and not curly hair, who would think to think something like that? Clear only to this subject. I felt the heat flood my cheeks.

-Could you take us to our table? Ben said a little uncomfortably.

-Yes, go ahead, come here please -he directed us to a table near a fountain, the place was very beautiful, the best thing was that there were almost no people. -It's here, and excuse me.

-No problem thanks. -Said Ben.

-Do you see that I was not the guilty party of any boy approaching you? -River.

-I can see that.

-Well, let's ask for something that I'm starving to death. -Re read the complete letter like four times, I did not know what to ask, I ended up asking the same thing as Ben only in a smaller ration.

Although we started the night a bit uncomfortable, the rest of the evening we had a good time, we did not stop talking and laughing as we always did, it seems that we never finish with the topics of conversation.

We arrived home after eleven o'clock at night. I still had to read an article and I was dead.

-Thanks for dinner, he was very rich.

-Nothing, I hope that for the next we go the 4.

-I hope so.

He said goodbye as he always did, with a big hug, I had to sleep because I had training tomorrow and I had to finish some pending I had from the university.

[beauticate]

Fiona Myer, Entrepreneur

It was perfect timing that just as we launched our brand new Interiors section, Melbourne doyenne Fiona Myer was kind enough to open up her beautiful Toorak home to us. She shared how her career began as a model in Paris (it’s not always glamorous, but it makes for a great story) and the path that has led her to her current cherished roles as founder and creative director of White Story, and long-time patron of the Victorian art scene. And yes, she tells us all about her go-to beauty products she uses to create her favoured “less is more” look, and some affordable ways to bring the outside into your own home.

“I found myself in Paris at 21 after being head hunted to join the Glamour agency. 

From there I travelled to some obscure parts of the world and have some amazing memories. Fashion shows on jumbo jets. Work in Beirut the day before war broke out. Barbados shooting swimwear, when the boat ran out of fuel while I was water skiing. I landed in a coral reef filled with sea urchin tentacles, and they took me off the shoot while I had each tentacle burned out over many days. There were hoax appointments, getting locked in cage lifts, a skiing shoot when the gondola closed due to high wind (the ski patrol was closed too, so we were left swaying recklessly well into the night). On that occasion I was lucky, because the shoot was for Courrèges and I was laden with fur coats. My clients included Yves Saint Laurent, Revillon, Sprung Frères... life was never dull.

After a good stint in Paris I came home to Australia, ready for a more grounded career.

Deciding to take a huge pay cut from modelling, I started work at the Georges Department Store in the promotions department. Outside of my life in Paris, Georges was my exposure to the world of couture. It was intoxicating working with the likes of Dior, Fendi, Lanvin, Givenchy and Celine. I was then headhunted down to Myer in Bourke Street to work as a fashion forecaster. After running a number of small businesses including luxury homewares from Myanmar and a collection of furniture, sleep wear and accessories, I have now taken on my biggest challenge of all: White Story.

It’s no surprise that retailing is a tough business, especially now.

We employ a vibrant, young team – I have emphasised employing people under 30. With my kids living away, it is the young team at White Story that get me out of bed in the morning. I feel needed and have a purpose. Without them realising it, they are keeping me young while teaching me the way of Gen Y.  

It’s my hope that in my small way, White Story can provide a platform for young people to move seamlessly from student life, to their first internship and subsequently their first job. 

My approach to beauty is simply less is more.

You would think after all those years of modelling I would apply makeup generously, but no - perhaps it was because I had it put on for me for all those years by professionals. One thing is for sure: the older you get, the less time you want to spend applying makeup. 

My daily routine always starts with washing my face in cold water and drinking a glass of warm water. I head off for a swim, then shower with Alpha Keri oil and moisturise with Actinica SPF 50+ lotion. Then I apply La Mer foundation, a light brush of bronzer, Trish McEvoy mascara and I’m out the door.

My go-to shop for cosmetics has to be Mecca.

Jo Horgan and her team have nailed it. It’s easy, it’s accessible and it has every brand and product I could possibly want, including my favourite Diptyque oversized candles. My favourite perfume is a toss up depending on my mood, though I like Laurent Mazzone Parfums O Des Soupirs or Diptyque Oyédo. I think Kiehl’s makes the ultimate hand cream, and in terms of treatments I always have Clarins Gentle Peeling Smooth Away Cream to hand. Then there is good old Dermaveen Soap Free Wash which I use as a makeup remover and finally BAKEL makeup remover for eyes (Ed. note: not currently available in Australia). What else is in my kit? By Terry’s Hyaluronic Hydra Primer, Trish McEvoy blush, NARS Orgasm blush, Trish McEvoy highlighter, and the Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil. 

My personal style is pared-back, clean and uncluttered – the way I would like to think my mind is!

My wardrobe is quite androgynous. Weekend wear is Givenchy menswear shirts and hipster jeans. Unwashed hair with little or no make up. After all, we spend our weekends at our farm and usually see no one. When it comes to dressing up, I’m in maxi evening pinafore dresses, either with a crisp white shirt or combining black organza and velvet. For the most part my go-to designers are young and unknown Japanese designers. When I’m committed to shopping I’m heading straight to Comme des Garçons, The Row, Victoria Beckham and Celine.

As I head towards 60 next November, I feel so blessed to have an incredibly supportive husband who keeps me sane.

We relax together. Week nights are bliss at home on our own. We light the fire in winter in my study, set the table at my old French leather desk, open up a full bodied red and say ahhhh - we talk for hours. Everything gets covered off in a full night: kids, holidays, White Story, the farm; there’s never nothing to talk about. It’s truthfully my favourite thing to do. My husband is after all my best friend. My other best friends are all living away – my children! The three of them are working either interstate or overseas, and I feel fortunate that they are all pursuing exciting opportunities and making own futures. 

I used to meditate religiously and I must get back into it. I’ve had a couple of months off and it shows. I’m so much calmer and more focused when I meditate.

I have always loved exercise. I swim daily come winter or summer – it is non-negotiable.

I walk to work and often meet a friend for brekky along the way. I am definitely not a gym junkie and gave Pilates away years ago. I need to be outdoors. 

I usually cook fish at home (normally salmon) with my own marinade of ginger, garlic, Tamari sesame oil, and maple syrup. I serve it with masses of wok veggies and my sweet potato purée, with added fresh ginger and a dash of sesame oil.

I’m lucky to have some wonderful health practitioners that help me through life.

I regularly have acupuncture and see a wonderful chiropractor. I have a weekly NET session with my kinesiologist to clear everything out. I just don’t have time to let small things get in my way. I also visit a bio-energiticist to keep me in check. Most GPs don’t get alternative healers. I find that my team sees the stuff doctors don’t find until you really have a problem.

I have been collecting art over 30 years, and for almost 20 years have supported the Victorian College of the Arts and Victoria University with scholarships, travel grants and awards for the students.

VU generously awarded me an honorary doctorate in recognition of this. Our family’s works are a mixture from emerging artists from VCA and VU, as well as locally and internationally recognised artists, sculptors and ceramicists. These include Polly Bolland, John Young, Peter Demetrius, Frog King, Robert Hunter, Philip Hunter, Chiharu Shiota, Yayoi Kusama, and Dale Frank to name a few. I also try and visit Hong Kong Art Basel annually. 

We host a Dom Pérignon event each year, and I think this will be our fifth year.

It all happened many years ago when the wonderful Deeta Colvin approached me. I love designing and visual merchandising and find large events like this so much fun to create. Each year I think up a theme, and we might feature anything from race horses at the party to models weaving through the crowds in our latest collection. I invite family and friends, business associates, people from the fashion industry, artists, politicians - the lot. It makes for an eclectic party and each person invited is a loyal Dom Pérignon drinker. 

Time not always being my best friend means inevitable last minute decisions – me running around right up until it starts is not unusual. Don’t laugh, but because the table arrangements are important to me I usually have the tables set days before so I can add and subtract until I feel happy. It’s a bit like sculpting my pots, you just don’t quite know what you’re going to get until it’s finished. Though mistakes are usually my best works.

Our house really comes to life when it is filled with plants and flowers.  

I like to bring inside whatever is in season. Although my life mantra is “less is more”, when it comes to floral arrangements and interiors in general I believe bountiful and generous is the way to go. For instance, I use masses of lilies (up to ten bunches) in one glass vessel. Whatever I use, I use in bulk. Whether it be burnt oak leaves or fruit, I stick to one variety and have multiples, which I find harmonious and peaceful. It’s less complicated and definitely no fuss.

They say “build a house, make a home”, and in my experience it takes years to truly make a home.

There are transitional periods in life (and in the state of your home) such as when or if you decide to have a family. As my family knows, a favourite line of mine is, “it’s a journey not a destination” - so even though now it’s just my husband and I here, I’m still making a home and I’m definitely still making a life. I want to bring on the next chapter with vigour and strength, and most of all, with love.”

Story by Zoe Briggs. Photography by Neiyo.

#Fiona Myer #white story

[depressionconsumes]

answer all of the questions (:

1. Are you good at apologizing?: well.. I think I am. If I know I’m in the wrong I’ll be the first to say I am sorry.

2. Do you prefer your looks or personality?: uhh.. I struggle with liking either to be honest.

3. Are you confident?: sometimes I can be.

4. What are you most confident about yourself?: I’m confident about my eyes I guess ^^

5. Name a few songs that remind you of someone, and who they remind you of: I like it like that by cardi b, the other popular song by cardi b, country roads… they all remind me of my best friend!

6. What is your favorite color combination?: oh this is easy. My three fav colors ofc, blue green and purple xD

7. Define your “aesthetic”: do faeries, elves, mermaids and aliens count as an aesthetic?

8. What is sex to you?: to me it’s something I will only have again if I completely love and trust a person. I wont give that part of myself away to someone I dont love.

9. Do you have any kinks? What are they?: shittt this is a loaded question Haha.. uhh. Well. I’m into BDSM to a degree, I’m a switch but I’m usually more submissive. I could go more into what I’m into with BDSM but I dont want too LOL. most my kinks relate too it as well.

10. What are your biggest pet peeves?: I have so many. Lying, rude customers at work, people making my bestfriend sad, people who have kids but dont care about them enough. The list is long my dudes.

11. What’s something that automatically turns you off of other people?: hmm.. uhh.. getting caught in a lie and trying to make me feel bad about catching the lie they told? That’s something I guess LOL

12. What song always makes you sad and emotional?: right now, what if and we belong make me sad. Theres alot of songs that get me emotional tbh.

13. How many people have you dated? How many of them do you still have feelings for?: 3 serious relationships. I’ve dated 7 total people though. I’m not answering the second part but I will say if you truly love someone you will always have a place in your heart for them.

14. How are you with moving on?: I’m okay with it. At first it’s hard for me. But give it a little bit and I get back up and keep trekking on. You have to be willing to move on to actually do so.

15. What’s a philosophy you agree with but fail to live by?: uhh.. anarchism maybe.

16. What’s something you dont like about yourself?: I don’t like much about myself but I guess I’ll go with the biggest one and say my body.

17. What’s something positive happening in your life right now?Well I think I finally found the path in life that I’m supposed to be on with work if that makes sense. I finally have a job I love to go too.

18. Are you truly able to admit your faults in relationships to yourself?I think I am. I dont always know what my faults are but if they’ve been pointed out and if I see them myself I’m the first one to admit I was at fault. So long as I actually was.

19. Is it important to be a good person?:It depends. I think for the most part yes. But what is a good person actually?

20. Are you a good person? I can be I think. But I also can be a shitty person. I think everyone’s capable of both.

21. How could you become a better personMaybe being less bitter hahahahaha

22. Would/have you ever pierced your genitalia?No. Probably not.

23. Have you ever been in love? If so with how many people?Once. I’ve experienced actually loving someone once in my life. Its powerful and it never goes away.

24. Do you believe in love at first sight? I mean.. yes. I believe in soulmates and such and sometimes when you meet a soul mate or someone supposed to be in your life for whatever reason, I believe love at first site can happen.

25. Which social science interests you most? Psychology, sociology or anthropology? Why? Its definitely a close tie between psychology and anthropology. I love learning how our brains work but I also absolutely love learning about culture so it’s hard to chose just one.

26. Have you ever orgasmed?No. No I havent actually. I try believe me.

27. Have you ever made someone else orgasm?Yes. Yes I have.

28. During sexual interaction what is most important too you?Feeling wanted and feeling safe.

29. Are you comfortable being sexual with lots of people?Not really. I’ve had sex twice with one person in my life and that person took advantage of my both times and then did a shitty thing too me. So sex is a hard subject for me.

30. I dont feel like answering this one sorry guys.

31. What’s your favorite song to sing alot?Uhhhh.. COUNTRY ROADDDSS TAKE ME HOMEE TO THE PLACE. I BELONGGG

32. What’s some “embaressing” music you listen too?Weeb ass music LOL

33. What are you most snobby/pretentious about?UHHH… I dont know really

34. How do you Express sad emotions? And happy emotions?I bottle up sad emotions usually and replace them with laughing and being bitter or angry lol. Sometimes I cry too tho. Happy emotions I just get excited usually I guess.

35. Do you Skype? Facetime?Yepp yep I do. Have been doing that since I was like 13/14

36. How do you feel about phone calls?Eh.. if it’s with someone I love I like them. Otherwise i hate phone calls they make me anxious.

37. How do you feel about texting? I’m most comfortable texting because i usually Express myself better then when I’m word vomiting all over.

38. What are your thoughts on LDRs?They’re hard. And hard work. And they dont always last and survive but when they do it’s a beautiful thing. I’ve been in a few myself..

39. The answer is no I havent. Not yet anyway

40. When and why was the last time you cried?Not long ago. I’ve been crying alot lately. The reason why recently has been the same. Life is overwhelming and I feel an incredible emptiness.. emptiness isn’t even the right word but it’s close. So sometimes I just break down and cry about it. Sometimes I cry because I just dont want to keep fighting for a life in this shitty world but.. I have people in my life who keep me going.

41. What’s something that you love that you never do anymore? Why dont you do it?Draw on paper and write.. I lost my spark I guess. I havent done either of those things besides writing letters to my bestfriend in awhile.

42. Are you afraid to die?No not really. Only afraid of the people I love hurting if I died.

43. If there were no limits, who and what would you be?Id be a mystical as fuck elf okay. Like hell yeah. Or a fairy maybe. Like pls

44. Are you more likely to be a sub or dom during sex?I’m more sub.

45. Describe your fashion senseI wear what I want and what I’m comfortable in. Dresses r life.

46. Do you have stage fright?Yes.

47. Did you ever put your hand up in class?Yes.

48. Are you more of an open or closed person?Uh.. both really.

49. What is the worst thing that has ever happened to you? And the best?Losing my virginity was probably the worst. My bestfriend entering my life is probably the best.

50. Are you a theist? Uhh… well. I’m an agnostic theist if I’m being honest. Dont know what that is? Google is your friend.

51. What are your top three places you want to travel and why?Ireland(and the UK in general) because my roots lie there. Japan because I love Japanese culture and it’s beautiful there. Andd… France. So I have a reason to finish becoming fluent in French.

52. What’s something you thought would be really scary/bad, but when it actually happened it was fine?Rollercoasters. Was terrified now I’m obsessed.

53. When you sleep at a friends house, how often do you sleep in their bed?Uh.. I only have had one friend where I was actually comfortable enough to sleep in their bed, and it was in high school and it took multiple times of her saying I could for me to be like you know what.. okay why not. Platonically sleeping with someone isn’t bad. I was more afraid I’d roll over or something and push her out of her own bed then anything tbh

54. Can you sleep facing someone?I dont know. Never got the chance to experience that to know yet.

55. Do you ever get in slumps? If so how often/long do they happen?Absolutely. All the time. It depends really. They can last a day or a year or feel neverending.

56. Do you like being alone?Most of the time yes. But sometimes I crave being around people.

57. Are you social?I can be.

58. How do you feel about parties?Depends on the party. I like to party definitely but not all parties are fun.

59. Have you ever hosted a party? Howd it go?Yeah I have. It went well. Everyone had fun. Think we even had a line in the backyard for chacha slide lolol

60. What questions do you love to ask people?What’s your zodiac sign?

61. What questions do you live to be asked?I dont know.

62. Are you confrontational? Does it make you uncomfortable when others are?Not usually no. I hate confrontation. And it does make me uncomfortable yes. I have an issue where I’m almost always defensive and it’s because of living with narcissists and people who emotionally abused me my entire life and blamed me for things I didnt do. So I really struggle with the side effects of living that way tbh.

There yall gp. I did it. Bc ily guys