Hello, hello! Lily here to say I’ve decided to host the December challenge.
I’ve decided to host a winter/holiday vibes challenge this month (and yes, just like in summer, I’m aware this is a northern hemisphere vibe this time of year, but just roll with it).
Feel free to use any of the prompts provided to create anything you’d like. Feel free to use any prompt - even those not listed - that’s a winter/holiday vibe. Everyone is welcome to participate (and I mean that absolutely), I simply ask that y’all read and abide by the rules and be kind to everyone. I like to believe we are all here to have fun and just be ridiculous with others that share our fandom space. So have fun, be kind, and happy creating!!
Summary: A Winter Fairytale AU - Young Clara receives from her father a nutcracker as a gift.
Word Count: 4K words
Rating: General (Fluff, Fairytale AU, Christmas)
Warnings: none (just ugly Richard much uglier)
-> My complete Desire & Decorum Masterlist <-
Desire & Decorum Fanfiction Taglist: @bri1234 ; @tessa-liam ; @princess-geek ; @gmsrrn98 and whoever wants to join... @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesdecember2024 [Christmas ; ...] & @choicesjanuary2025 [Light ; Joy ; Connection ; New Love]
Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome
Author's note: Inspired by the German Ballett & Fairytale called "The Nutcracker" where the heroine has the same name like my Desire & Decorum Main Character, Clara.
In this magical rewrite and retelling, Clara, a young girl with a kind heart, gazed in wonder at her new Nutcracker toy gifted by her father, Vincent, the Viscount of Edgewater.
"Oh, my Nutcracker, you're so handsome!", the girl praised as she held her wooden toy in her hands which looked almost like a human.
"Clara, dear! Clara!!"
The girl heard the grandmother call out from downstairs, so she immediately placed the wooden figure on her bed sheet, left her chambers, and hurried toward the calling woman.
After helping her grandmother, the young girl returned to her chambers only to find her younger brother, Harry, next to her broken toy. The figure lying on the floor with a missing arm.
"Oh no, my nutcracker!! What have you done?", she panicked and quickly grabbed the wooden figure from the floor. Then she picked up the missing toy arm which she found from under her bed.
"I only wanted to play with this soldier but it broke so easily. That's a dumb toy."
"Hey, don't say that about Father's gift. And that's my Nutcracker and not yours. Go and play with Edmund.", she scolded, wanting him to leave.
"Hey children, why the shouting? What happened.", a gentle voice called out. It was Viscount Vincent, the father of the children.
"Father, Harry broke my nutcracker!", little Clara sobbed and pointed at her sibling. Harry tried to avoid his father's gaze as he spoke.
"I'm sorry, father. I was just playing, and it happened by accident."
And then the boy left, leaving his sister alone with the father. The viscount discovered his daughter's sadness which broke his heart. How happy he made her with just a simple toy.
"My darling dear, please don't cry. I promise to fix your toy."
"You would do that, father?", she asked as she slowly calmed herself down.
"Anything for my Clara.", Vincent softly whispered before planting a gentle kiss on his daughter's forehead. She was the only daughter and a father who would do anything for their baby girl. He carefully took her wooden toy and its dispatched arm.
"Thank you, father. You're the best."
"I just don't want to see you sad, my child. Especially not on Christmas Eve. I'll be right back."
Determined to help, the viscount left Clara's chambers with her toy in hand, ready to fix it. Despite the challenges, he successfully reattached the arm. After just half an hour, he returned the toy to Clara, looking as good as new.
"Yayy, my nutcracker got fixed. Thanks father.", she happily squeaked.
In the dead of night, after everyone else had retired, Clara decisively woke up in her chambers to check on her nutcracker. She confidently reached for the cupboard next to her bed as the clock struck midnight. In an instant, hordes of mice flooded the room, and the walls, furniture, and everything surrounding her expanded to dizzying heights.
"Aaahh, what's happening?! Is everything growing or am I shrinking? Help!", she panicked.
Little Clara shrank into the size of a doll. The same size as her Nutcracker. She discovered her toy standing next to her with features like a real human. There was nothing wooden of him anymore. He looked more handsome and real. Light skin, chestnut curls, and stormy, blue eyes.
"Uhh, who are you?"
"Why your nutcracker, of course, milady. They also call me Ernest Sinclaire. And this gentleman is at your service now.", he spoke before raising her knuckles to plant a kiss on them which made the girl blush.
She found her nutcracker already beautiful as a toy, but now even more. Handsome, dashing, and those perfect manners. A man of her dreams.
"You're so kind. Dear Nutcracker,... I... I mean... Dear Mr. Sinclaire, were you always a nutcracker? How did this happen?"
"My Clara, it's only fair if you know the truth. I wasn't always a nutcracker, but a human like you. I got cursed."
"What?", she gasped and he nodded.
"Yes, cursed by no other but the evil Mouse King."
"Mouse King? And is there a way that your curse can be broken"
"Only by the sweetness of the Sugar Fairy."
"First a mouse and now a fairy? What does that mean?", the girl got confused than before.
"I sadly don't know either what the sweetness of the Sugar Fairy is or if she even exists, but that doesn't stop me from fighting. I won't give up that easily."
"Oh Ernest, your story is so sad. I wish I could help you."
"Clara, you helped me already. You're a wonderful girl and treat me perfectly. You don't see me as a toy but as a real human. Someone with real feelings. And thank you for stepping before. It kinda hurt when your brother was messing up with my arm.", he chuckled.
"Does your arm still hurt?" she whispered and gently stroked the injured part.
"Not when I have you, Clara. Besides, your father took great care of me. He's a good man who raised a beautiful girl."
"Oh, Ernest. You're...", she blushed.
"Yes, dear Clara?"
"Oh shut up, you're gorgeous. I like you being more human and real. You're so sweet, kind, and just perfect. You're the best gift I ever received. Even as a toy I love you."
"Clara darling, it fills my wooden heart to hear this. I wish I could spend more time with you in my human form and dance all night with you forever."
"Oh Ernest, why not dance now?"
Clara created delicate ballet movements that were pleasant to watch for Ernest. The movements of the feet were graceful, the movements of the arms and the fingers were very fluid, and the whole body got synchronized.
"Love, may I join for this dance?", he asked and extended his arm to her. She happily accepted and both started a powerful waltz. Everything around them faded away and they only focused on themselves and their dance.
"My beautiful... Clara, look out!!", her nutcracker panicked as their dance suddenly got interrupted by unwanted intruders.
"Ernest, what's happening?"
Clara was shocked and now found herself amid a battle between an army of gingerbread soldiers and the mice, led by their king.
She discovered her nutcracker shouting orders to the gingerbread men, who were joined by tin soldiers, and by dolls who served as doctors to carry away the wounded. The Mouse King returned. As the old, gray-haired being tried to advance on the nutcracker, Clara immediately threw her slipper at him to protect her nutcracker.
"Hey, you ugly rat!! Back off!!"
"Who dares to call me an ugly rat?!! The powerful Mouse King Richard!!", the almost human-like animal hissed at the girl.
"Leave Ernest and the toys alone!! Your army is hurting innocent people.", she dared to answer back while Mr. Sinclaire and the other toy soldiers were too busy fighting off some rats, Richard's minions. One of them was a light-gray human rat called Sir Gideon, who was now swordfighting with Clara's nutcracker, Ernest Sinclaire.
"My, my, what gorgeous piece do we have here? A pretty girl in my kingdom."
"Excuse me, I'm not a piece!!"
"That anger... How fierce! I like that. Why don't you join me, beautiful? I'm a King. Fight by my side and I'll make my Queen.", he spoke as he tried to move closer to her.
"Ewww, no thanks. I love Ernest Sinclaire and not you, old rat. Stay away from me."
"Nobody rejects me. And you...", Mouse King Richard got interrupted as he analyzed the battlefield.
Many of his minions sustained injuries and were defeated while the toys claimed victory in the battle. Unable to tolerate defeat, he issued a command to retreat, vowing to return and strike back harder. Mouse King Richard and Rat Sir Gideon escaped with a handful of their minions, fully intent on scheming for revenge and launching a powerful counterattack.
"Wohooo, Ernest!! They're gone. You defeated them!!", Clara cheered before running towards her soldier for a hug.
"My Clara darling, my love, are you alright? Did he hurt you? I'm so sorry I couldn't keep Richard away from you."
"It's alright, we're both safe now. Is your arm alright?", she wispered in worry.
"Well, I'm used to losing some parts of me while battling, and it doesn't hurt. But this time it feels strange. For the first time, I feel like I used to feel when I was human, Clara. That means the Sugar Fairy must be near."
"Then we have to find her to make you back human again. Does your arm hurt?"
"Manageable, Clara. But for keeping you safe, this pain is nothing to me."
"Then let's find the Sugar Fairy. Lead the way, my love."
Ernest confidently journeyed to the magnificent Land of Sweets alongside the girl. This vibrant realm was under the rule of the Sugar Fairy. The paths were adorned with colorful toffees, and towering lollipop trees captivated young Clara. They boldly crossed a candy cane bridge over the rich chocolate milk river. Energetic bees buzzed around, offering them delightful honey as they soared through the air. In this land, everything and everyone exuded a powerful sense of harmony and joy.
"It's like heaven here, Ernest."
"I was genuinely surprised to uncover this hidden world that embraced me. Nonetheless, I firmly miss the experience of being human again."
"Listen, you're still human with a heart of gold. You can feel happiness, pain, and love. Your mind is sharp and capable of strategy. While you may be made of wood at the moment, that doesn’t diminish your humanity. Together, we will break this curse."
As they stepped into the enchanting Land of Sweets, a vibrant kingdom ruled by the whimsical Sugar Fairy, they were greeted by an extraordinary assembly. Gingerbread soldiers, with their gleaming icing decorations and candy buttons, stood tall and proud. Colorful dolls with sparkling eyes danced joyfully, while fluffy teddy bears flanked them, their soft fur inviting hugs. All around, toys of every kind chimed and chimed with delight, their laughter ringing like bells in the air. The joyful procession celebrated the young couple's bravery, honoring them for vanquishing the wicked Mouse King, Richard, earlier that day.
"You were so heroic.", a ballet dancer sang as she twirled around them.
"Mister Sinclaire saved us again! How will we ever thank him?" Ginger, the teddy bear cheered.
"All hail, Mr. Sinclaire!!", the crowd joined.
"Who's the pretty girl with you, Mr. Sinclaire?" an elderly woman asked and winked at them. Everyone got curious too.
"Madam Tarte, may I introduce Clara? She's with me and together we are here to meet the Sugar Fairy."
"The Sugar Fairy? We have never seen her."
"To the Sugar Fairy? Mister Sinclaire, take my horses for the travel.", Mister Crumble offered.
Ernest, the nutcracker, gratefully accepted the warm words of encouragement and generous help from the villagers. In a display of kindness, they lent him two magnificent mares. Clara, with her spirited demeanor, perched elegantly on a chocolate-brown horse named Caramel, whose rich, glossy coat shimmered in the sun. Meanwhile, Ernest chose a striking white mare with delicate snowflake patterns dotting her fur. She was named Marzipan.
With a sense of adventure, they took off, riding swiftly through the meadows as if propelled by the very wind itself, their laughter echoing through the air. The journey led them to the enchanting crystal palace, where the fairy was said to reside. Upon their arrival, the pair dismounted and led their horses to a gentle stop, leaving them tied outside before stepping into the palace, ready to discover the magic within.
The walls of the palace were magnificently adorned with exquisite marble, showcasing intricate carvings that told stories of a bygone era. Each detail in the craftsmanship added to the grandeur of the surroundings. The floors, meticulously polished to a near-mirror finish, gleamed under the soft glow of the chandeliers, creating a mesmerizing reflection that enhanced the opulence of the space.
"So this where the good Sugar Fairy lives. It's beautiful.", Clara admired.
A cheerful gingerbread soldier adorned with colorful icing and a shiny candy button for a uniform greeted them with a warm smile, his sugary frame exuding a delightful aroma of cinnamon and spice.
"Greetings, I am Ernest Sinclaire, accompanied by Clara. We have journeyed a considerable distance to seek an audience with the esteemed Sugar Fairy. We hold a deep respect for her and sincerely believe that she possesses the power to assist us in lifting the curse that has been cast upon me. Would it be possible for us to visit her?"
"Greetings, Mr. Sinclaire. We have had the pleasure of hearing numerous accounts of your remarkable adventures throughout the land, particularly your courageous confrontations with the nefarious Mouse King. It is our honor to welcome esteemed heroes like yourself to our community."
"Thank you, Sir Luke."
"Regrettably, I am unable to assure you that you will have the opportunity to meet the Sugar Fairy today, or at any time in the future."
"Why is that?" the nutcracker asked with concern.
"I regret to inform you that the Sugar Fairy has been absent for an extended period and has yet to make her return," the soldier announced, eliciting a concerned reaction from the couple.
How can they possibly break the curse on Mr. Sinclaire now? The Sugar Fairy was their only hope, and the thought of him remaining a nutcracker forever was heartbreaking. He deserved the chance to be human again.
"I'll never return back into my human again."
"Please don't say that, Ernest. I know things feel overwhelming right now, but we will find a way through this together. Trust me, my love. I'm here for you," she said softly, wrapping her arms around him. He pulled her closer, seeking comfort, and she gently stroked his soft hair, hoping to calm his racing thoughts.
"Clara, I thought I'll be soon back human but..."
"I completely understand how you feel, my love. Believe me, I share those sentiments too. But please always remember that my love for you remains unwavering, whether you’re human or a nutcracker. You are, and always will be, my Ernest Sinclaire. My hero, my love, my everything. Your kindness, generosity, loyalty, and wonderful heart are what drew me to you, and I cherish that deeply."
"I truly love you too, Clara."
As she heard these little heartfelt words, an overwhelming warmth spread through the girl's heart. In that moment, she stood on her tiptoes, yearning to connect with him, and leaned in for a kiss. Their lips met in a tender, passionate embrace, a beautiful expression of their deep love. An experience that felt like the sweetest thing Ernest had ever tasted.
They found themselves surrounded by a radiant light that enveloped them with hope. It was a glow so captivating that toys from the nearby towns and villages rushed toward the mysterious source, eager to uncover the wonders that awaited them.
When Ernest Sinclaire slowly opened his blue eyes, he found that the girl before him had transformed. No longer was it just Clara, the girl he had known so well. Instead, it was Clara in a dazzling new form as the Sugar Fairy herself. Her brown hair shimmered like spun sugar, cascading down her shoulders in soft waves, and she wore a gown that sparkled with hues of pastel pink and blue. The air around her was sweet, filled with a hint of candy as she smiled down at him. Her radiance illuminating the room and filling Ernest with a sense of wonder and magic.
Clara of Edgewater stood enchanted. Her eyes wide with astonishment. She was dressed in a breathtaking gown. Its fabric shimmering like liquid silver as it cascaded down to the floor, each fold and flare danced gracefully with her every movement. The gown was adorned with tiny sequins that twinkled like stars, adding a touch of magic to her appearance. On her feet, she wore delicate ballet slippers, soft and pastel-hued, embellished with sparkling accents that caught the light with each step she took.
Perched atop her flowing hair was a radiant tiara, a masterpiece of artistry that sparkled with an array of precious gemstones. Each gem seemed to reflect its own story, glistening in hues of sapphire, ruby, and emerald, casting a gentle glow around her. Strikingly beautiful, she felt as if she had stepped straight out of a fairytale, transformed into a princess wrapped in elegance and grace. In that moment, she truly was a vision of purity and enchantment, completely bejeweled and captivating.
"Clara darling, you look like an angel."
The same radiant light enveloped the figure of Ernest Sinclaire, illuminating him in a warm glow. As the transformation began, the once solid wooden form gradually shifted, its hard exterior melting away into soft, supple skin. Flesh and blood filled out the structure, revealing a body full of life and vitality. Before anyone’s eyes, the inanimate wooden toy had transcended its limitations to become a fully realized human being. Indeed, he stood there as a true man, embodying the very essence of humanity as it was always intended to be.
"I'm... I'm back human. After all these times, I'm back in my own body and not a nutcracker anymore."
"Ernest, what happened? I don't understand. Just look at me... What is going on?" she begged for an explanation as she couldn't understand what just happened.
"All the time we were searching for the Sugar Fairy without knowing that you are the Sugar Fairy, Clara. You broke my curse and made me human again."
The enthusiastic crowd surged around them, their cheers rising to a deafening crescendo, echoing the excitement in the air.
"All hail Clara, the Sugar Fairy!!"
"No, that's impossible. I'm not the Sugar Fairy. I'm Clara, just an ordinary girl," she asserted firmly. The man gently placed his hands on her shoulders and looked deeply into her eyes.
"Dear Clara, I truly understand how difficult this is to accept. I felt the same way when I transformed from a human into a nutcracker and entered the Land of Sweets. Your sweetnes, your loving kiss was what broke the curse of the evil Mouse King Richard. It was only the sweetness of the Sugar Fairy that could accomplish this, which is why I believe you are the Sugar Fairy. You have given me the gift of humanity once again."
In a dazzling celebration that filled the air with sweetness, the young heroine was honored and formally welcomed as the Sugar Fairy. The festivities featured an impressive array of delectable treats from around the globe, each one more inviting than the last. Velvety chocolate from Switzerland, with its rich, creamy texture. Spiced gingerbread from Germany, bursting with warm flavors. Fragrant coffee from Arabia, with its enticing aroma. Delicate tea from China served in vibrant porcelain cups. And colorful candy canes from Russia, gleaming under the twinkling lights, were all beautifully displayed.
As laughter echoed throughout the Land of Sweets, the toys danced joyfully and captivated the crowd with their spirited performances. The atmosphere was electric with joy and happiness.
As the dawn approached, it was time for Clara to awaken soon. The night was coming to an end. Mister Sinclaire bowed to her respectfully and kissed her goodbye.
"Ernest!" she shouted, her voice breaking the tranquility of the early morning. Clara’s eyes fluttered open to find the golden sunlight streaming through her window, painting a warm glow across her room. The gentle rays danced on the walls, illuminating the delicate patterns of the wallpaper. Snuggled comfortably in her soft, plush blankets, she felt cocooned against the cold of the winter morning. She lay nestled in her cozy bed, surrounded by the familiar comforts of her chambers, momentarily lost in the peacefulness before the day began.
All the memories of Ernest, the Land of Sweets, the Mouse King, and the Sugar Fairy were still fresh in her mind, which she couldn't forget or shake away that easily. It felt so real. Was it all a dream, or did it happen? The only way to find out...
The girl swung her legs over the side of the bed, her feet brushing against the cool wooden floor. She glanced around her room, eyes scanning every corner in search of clues. Clenching her fists, she imagined what she might find a glimmering piece of candy cane or perhaps a fragrant piece of gingerbread. Her mind even wandered to the thought of an ugly rat with a tiny crown.
"Wait a second, where is the nutcracker which father gifted me yesterday on Christmas Eve?", she thought loud as she discovered that her toy was missing. It wasn't lying in the cupboard at her bedside anymore, which made her panic.
"No, no, it can't be... There must be a logical explanation. I bet Harry took my Nutcracker again. That boy..." she groaned and rushed downstairs. As she entered the main hall, she began shouting.
"Harry, come here!! Where is my nutcracker?!!"
"Are you searching for me?", someone chuckled which surprised her.
It was a young man who entered the parlour with Clara's father, Vincent, as their new guest. He was good-looking, tall, with curly brown hair, gray-blue eyes, and fair skin. He wore a white shirt with a scarf wrapped around his neck, a beige vest, and a navy blue jacket paired with brown trousers. A smile spread across his face as he noticed the girl.
"Ernest?" she whispered with surprise.
The handsome man she danced with last night in Nutcracker form was now standing in front of her, alive. Maybe it wasn't a dream after all? Or was it just a coincidence? But where was her Nutcracker then?
"Sugar Fairy.", the man whispered to her and winked which made her blush. Maybe the adventures of last night did happen. She would happily trade her toy for the dashing man in front of her.
"I hope you don't mind having a guest with us tonight, Clara.", Viscount Vincent suggested, which the girl didn't mind at all.
The entire family gathered around the beautifully adorned Christmas tree. The warm glow of the lights cast a festive ambiance in the room. They savored a traditional meal together, filling the air with the tempting aromas of roasted meats and seasonal dishes. At the table sat Father, whose jovial laughter rang out. Grandmother, with her wise and twinkling eyes. Harry, who eagerly shared stories with Edmund. Clara secretly stole glances with the special guest, who added an extra touch of joy to the occasion. It was a moment of togetherness, warmth, and cherished memories.
"Soooo... Do we know each other?" she dared to ask without letting anyone notice their interactions.
"You might know me already, Clara. I hope you're not sad that you don't have a nutcracker anymore."
"This Sugar Fairy rather wants to have you, my hero. Now Mouse King Richard won't stand a single chance against my man.", she confessed as their hands met under the dining table.
I think I got em all reblogged. I’ll start working on a masterlist as soon as I’m able (probably during the treatment appointments this week).
Thank you to everyone that created for the event. I’m sorry I couldn’t make it more fun but I adored seeing each creation. Can’t wait to catch up on my reading and reblogs soon.
Merry 11th day of Christmas and happiest of New Year’s to each and everyone of you! May your 2025 be filled with only good and beautiful things ♥️
A Quiet Christmas - Isabella x Leo (One shot from a RR Mob Boss AU)
This is a one shot from a Mob Boss style AU for Liam and Leo. This is the kids first Christmas with Leo since they returned to Cordonia.
Cutesy fic, following prompt for @choicesdecember2024 for Day 29: Snowman / Snowball Fight
tagging a few old friends as I haven’t posted in a long time and I am sorry for that 😓😭 if I have missed anyone, again I am sorry - I just haven’t posted in a lifetime 😭
This Christmas Eve for Leo was somewhat reminiscent of his days when the Rys Royal Family were still ruling the Cordonian Kingdom. It was a far cry from too many Christmases past on the run or drinking himself to oblivion to block out the pain of the unknown. This year however was set to change that repetitive narrative and create new, happier memories. Reunited again with this childhood sweetheart and their identical twin daughters, Leo decided to do something magical for their first Christmas together as a family and planned a trip to Lythikos after realising their kids hadn’t played in the snow since the were little, nor had he the opportunity to live that experience with them as a family, until now. The closer the family were to the Lythikos Kingdom, the heavier the snowflakes became. The snow was falling thick as a blanket over the darkened mountains, each flake softening the world outside. Leo sat in the driver’s seat of the black SUV, his fingers clenched on the wheel as the headlights cut through the swirling white haze. Beside him, Bella kept her eyes on the road, but he could feel her tension, the way her shoulders were slightly hunched as if bracing against some invisible storm.
Their twin daughters, Alessandra and Natalia, sat in the back, discussing the most important aspects of life right now, “Mama, Papa… will santa know we’re here and not leave our presents at home?” Their voices, high and eager, were the only sound that filled the cabin of the car. “Sí, mi amor…” Isabella spoke softly, “Santa will know where you are tonight, so do not worry…” Leo glanced at Bella, his brow furrowing. The trip had been his idea—this remote cabin in the mountains for their first Christmas as a family. It was supposed to be peaceful. But Leo couldn’t shake the feeling that, no matter how far they went, the shadows of their life would always follow may that be from the Via Imperii or someone plotting revenge of a business deal gone wrong. They had only just begun to experience the weight of their father’s legacy, the weight Leo had tried to shield them from over the past year, but in his world, that was always easier said than done. He let out a slow breath and shifted his gaze to the rearview mirror. The road was barely visible through the thickening storm, but they were nearly there.
Leo’s gaze softened as he looked at the twins, their little faces lit by the dim glow of the car’s interior light. Alessandra and Natalia both were happily watching their favourite Christmas film in the headrest screens without a care in the world and for a brief moment, Leo’s heart ached. They were so young, so innocent. He knew that life was precious and the three individuals in the car alongside him filled him with a joy that could only be described as indescribable - he wouldn’t be able to articulate how he felt, no matter how hard he tried. Coming to a stop, Leo fixed the handbrake with a grin in front of a magnificent wooden cabin decorated with outdoor twinkling Christmas Lights, “This is home for the next couple of days…” The cabin was cozy, nestled in a hollow between two snow-covered peaks. It looked almost like a picture from one of those glossy holiday brochures, the kind that promised peace and serenity—things Leo was only just beginning to understand and appreciate once more. The majority of his adult life was simply to survive, out of everyone there - he needed this the most.
He helped the petite brunette unpack the car, keeping a sharp eye on the surroundings. His instincts, honed over years of running the family business, refused to let him relax. But Bella had insisted—thiswas supposed to be their escape. He stood momentarily to take in the quiet. A millisecond of time felt like an eternity. He felt as if he were in a paradox - out in the open but sheltered from everyone at that moment. "Mi amor, come inside…" Isabella called from the front door with a giggle. "Alessandra and Natalia are already re-decorating the tree and making themselves at home…” The sandy haired former Cordonian Crown Prince walked inside, the warmth of the cabin immediately enveloping him. The fire crackled in the hearth, its flames casting long shadows on the walls. The twins were in the living room, their small hands carefully placing ornaments on the tree, giggling every time one of them tipped over.
“Papa, come see, come see!” Natalia called, her face glowing with excitement as she ran towards him, eagerly taking his calloused hand, dragging him towards the 8ft Fir Tree. With a sparkling star in hand, Leo lifted his youngest daughter high enough to reach the top of the tree to add the final decoration to its rightful place. Alessandra was watching with adoration as the star glittered from above her, the flecks of shimmering gold catching the lights as they twinkled and danced around the tree. Leo kneeled down beside them. For a brief moment, he allowed himself to forget who he was day to day—but for the holidays, he was just a father with his daughters, enjoying Christmas. Kissing both of their cheeks elicited a shriek of happiness from them both as he wrapped his strong, muscular arms around them both gently. “I think Santa knows you two have been so good this year… he didn’t tell me anything different when I spoke with him this morning…” Leo wasn’t exactly joking when he said this, he did speak to a Santa this morning but that was more of a shakedown than handing over a Christmas present list.
As the evening deepened, the storm outside grew fiercer, but inside the cabin, it was warm, filled with the smells of roasting meat and the sound of Christmas carols playing softly in the background. The twins had set the table with their own brand of chaotic enthusiasm, and the meal was simple—no lavish spreads or extravagant gifts, just a quiet night together. After dinner, they sat around the fire. Leo held a glass of whiskey in his hand, his thoughts drifting. It was hard to silence the ghosts of his past. The weight of his responsibilities was always present, lurking just beneath the surface of every smile, every laugh. But tonight, tonight was different. The twins were happily colouring in pictures as they patiently waited for bed time, the fire crackling in the background. Bella leaned against him, her fingers twining with his. “Leo, it’s ok” she cooed softly, as if she could sense his thoughts. "We’re safe here. You’re safe. We’re safe." He nodded, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that he was just waiting for something—someone—to remind him of the world he’d left behind for the next few days. But for now, as he looked at Bella and their daughters, the warmth of the fire and the laughter of his family filled the empty spaces. For the first time in years, Leo allowed himself to believe it might just be enough.
As the night wore on, Leo and Isabella found themselves cozied up on the couch as the kids fell asleep soundly in their room. Kissing the crown of Isabella’s head as she slept against his shoulder, Leo savoured his tumbler of whiskey, quietly enjoying the spitting of the fire, watching as it slowly dissipated away into ash and smoke a mere hour or two later. Each hour on the grandfather clock rang out as a reminder of the lack of sleep Leo had and how many hours he had left before chaos ensued the cabin. As the clock struck 4am, he heard a recognisable shuffling coming from the hallway. “Back to bed…” his deep voice echoed, “It’s too early…” smiling to himself as he heard a soft but audible sigh and the door closing behind them. It was sweet they were so excited, warming Leo’s heart further. He’d done so much planning. Unbeknownst to Isabella or the twins, he had the cabin built for them, it wasn’t some simple weekend retreat but a holiday home where they could just be together. In fact, it was a present to the woman who brought his children into the world and he was trying to make up for the past four years of not knowing they existed, or in Isabella’s case - still alive. Leo wanted to be the father he never had. He wanted to be present and only wanted what was best for them. For the first time in a long time, he felt a sense of peace settle over him. The past was a shadow he couldn’t escape, but tonight, that shadow didn’t feel so heavy. They were together. And for now, that was all that mattered, holding the love of his life just that little bit tighter as she slept peacefully.
As predicted, the morning brought organised chaos and a childlike wonder to all. “He didn’t forget!” Exclaimed the twins as they bounded into the living room, wakening their mother who was still asleep against their father’s shoulder. Isabella’s glazed over eyes watched as they ran towards the tree and in a whirlwind of wrapping paper, toys and presents appeared, replacing the green and red wrapped boxes that sat perfectly under the branches. “Mi querida…” the petite brunette sighed, placing her hand gently against Leo’s cheek, “Did you not sleep?” her brow raising as she questioned him. “Yeah…” Leo yawned, trying to disguise it with a smile, “I gotta couple of hours…” before immediately changing the subject, “Breakfast?” The former Crown Princess’ dark chocolate brown eyes saddened as she saw the last two wrapped presents from under the tree, both for Leo, from her and the children.
As the twins were preoccupied, Isabella carefully picked up the small boxes bringing them to the kitchen. “Open them…” she held out the presents in front of the mob boss, him puzzled as to why. Her brow furrowed at his reluctance, “…Por favor, mi amor… this one first…” she tapped her long red nail against the cardboard…” Leo opened it to a new pair of leather gloves, scarf and hat. He was confused but appreciated the gesture. “Sasha and Talia have always wanted to go build a snowman like they’ve seen in the movies… when they heard we were going somewhere snowy for Christmas they hoped that you would help them…” Leo tried on the gloves, they were pristine and weren’t tainted like his usual pair. For now, his hands were clean metaphorically and physically. Isabella’s beautiful warm smile appeared once more as she teased, now this one…” Leo looked at it, it was a small ring box, opening it he saw nothing other than a folded piece of paper. He carefully opened it, his sea green eyes scanning the contents before his gaze met the petite brunette’s. “You’re?!” Leo exclaimed, he didn’t know how to feel, he was elated but terrified at the same time. Isabella pointed to the picture of the sonogram, “Twelve weeks, going on Thirteen…” looking over her shoulder with a grin towards the twins playing on the other side of the room, completely unaware of what was unfolding, “They don’t know yet either… I thought you might want to be the one to tell them…”
“Doll…” Leo softly cupped his hands around Isabella’s face, embracing her as if it were his last. His lips crashed onto hers and once again, time felt as if it were standing still. In that moment, all he could feel was immense joy. “I’m surprised you didn’t notice each morning…” No he didn’t notice, recently when Isabella was going to work - he was only arriving home, passersby in the night as the Via Imperii’s grip tightened around the Kingdom. Family, he thought. Our family. This time it would be different, he could be there. He could be present. But again… could and would have two different meanings. “This place…” the sandy haired Cordonian cleared his throat awkwardly, “…this is for you…” Isabella’s eyes widened in shock, “We were only renting… I thought this…” causing Leo to chuckle loudly as he rolled his eyes playfully, “…You really think that you would be in one of Olivia’s Airbnb’s or something? I don’t think so honey…” shaking his head, Leo continued to plate up, “Breakfast is ready…”
“Show me all the presents Santa brought!” Leo happily exclaimed as the twins came bounding in trying to carry as many items as their little bodies would allow. “Wow…” the former Crown Prince grinned as he saw his two beaming girls, “You two must have been really good this year…” they nodded in unison. “Yes, papa! We have!” “And a little birdie told me that you also want to go build a snowman? Will we do that before dinner?” Isabella winced at the loud, piercing squeal that echoed through the wooden cabin, “So much for a quiet Christmas…” the petite brunette shook her head as the excitement grew. “Let’s all go get dressed and we can go outside…” Isabella calmly instructed before they as a family finally ventured out of their redwood cabin cocoon.
There was so much snow that neither Alessandra or Natalia knew what to do with. “Let me show you…” Leo began to form the shape of a ball, rolling it around as it became bigger. “Go help your papa…” Isabella smiled from the porch, encouraging them both to help Leo as she pulled her woollen coat tighter around her to keep warm. The white powdery snow crunched under their feet, with the snowflakes continuing to dance above their heads. “You know….” Leo looked up to the sky with a warm smile, “Each little snowflake is different, they’re not the same…” Alessandra pouted her lip with a furrowed brow from confusion, holding out her little hand to catch the flakes “But they look the same papa?” “Well…” Leo grinned as he lifted a pile of snow, patting it to form the snowman’s head as he kneeled down beside them, “You and your sister look the same… but you’re different…“ before lifting the snowman’s head and placing it atop his body. Isabella found an old scarf, a carrot, some branches from the pile of chopped wood and some stones for the eyes and buttons. “Should be we get him dressed, yes?”
Admiring their handiwork, Alessandra and Natalia sprinted toward the snowman, wrapping their arms around its snowy form in excitement. Leo cleared his throat playfully. “What about me? Where’s my hug?” The twins exchanged a mischievous glance, almost as if communicating telepathically, before racing toward him. Leo, grinning, fell backward into the snow just as they collided with him, and he wrapped his arms around them. The twins squealed with laughter as he chuckled.
“Mama!!” they cried out as Leo tickled them mercilessly. “Mama!!” they repeated, their voices full of giggles. The petite brunette, knelt beside them with a smile, her eyes twinkling. “Maybe next year you’ll have another set of hands to help stop the tickle monster…” Leo raised an eyebrow. “We’re doing this now?” Isabella nodded, her smile widening. “No better time.” Leo sat up, loosening his hold on the girls. “Sasha… Talia…” he began, his grin growing. “Your mama and I have something to tell you… we’re going to have a baby… you’re going to be big sisters.” The twins paused, taking in the news. Natalia was the first to speak, her eyes lighting up. “I want a brother!” But Alessandra shook her head with a determined expression. “No, Talia… no boys… mama…” Her hazel eyes turned to Isabella, and she smiled sweetly. “Can we get some hot chocolate?” “Por supuesto, cariño,” Isabella replied, her voice warm. “Let’s go inside and make some.”
As the evening began to slowly roll in, Isabella and Leo prepared dinner, the girls happily watching outside as their snowman stood proud and tall outside the cabin. It was a Christmas the family wouldn’t forget. Leo did have one more surprise under his sleeve but he wanted to wait until the twins went to bed before he could clamber the courage to ask the former Crown Princess to marry him with the 20 carat diamond ring he had carefully stowed away for safe keeping.
"Friendship isn't a big thing, it's a million little things”~ Paulo Coelho
Maiele x Daenarya by the always amazing @weetlebeetle 💖💖💖
@lilyoffandoms, I know this month has thrown you some challenges, so I wanted to bring you a little something to brighten your day.
I am so grateful to this fandom for bringing you into my life. My life is better for having you as a part of it. You are so talented. So kind. So generous. So hardworking. And all around an incredible human. You are amazing. I am so so happy to have you in my life. Love you lots! ❤️❤️❤️
Again, I’m sorry for my lack of participation this month. This hadn’t been my plan. Thanks y’all for understanding.
I think I’ve caught up on reblogging everything here. If I missed something, please do let me know. I’ll start reading them all and reblog to my personal blog as I am able.
Thanks for this ask - Here is part 3 of a series of little drabbles to see what Tobias does with the pumpkin pie throughout different periods of his life (and in some different worlds, too!) This story takes place during Casey's first pregnancy. I hope you enjoy it as much as Tobias (and I) love pumpkin pie!
Book: Open Heart (post-series)
Pairing: Tobias x Casey Carrick (F!MC)
Rating: Teen
Words: 1,085
Summary: Casey comes home to an incredible treat - until things go terribly awry. Can pumpkin pie save the day?
A/N: Participating in @choicesholidays Winter Event - "You did what with the pumpkin pie?" and @choicesdecember2024 Baking, Home and Family.
Be kind - I did this in a rush with very little editing :)
It was a long day – entirely too long – and the commute home had been grueling. There was nothing like a bit of rain to make the typical hellish Boston commute seem like a dream come true. Casey kicked off her shoes in the vestibule with a smile, overjoyed to be home when it finally hit her. That delightful aroma filling the air was not coming from a candle... no, that could only be one thing... Tobias’s pumpkin pie!
Her eyes lit up, and for the first time in months, her stomach growled instead of churning. Morning sickness had kept her appetite at bay for weeks, but now she couldn't wait to grab a fork and dig into her favorite pie.
“Tobias?” she called out, setting down her bag. But there was no reply.
She stepped into the kitchen, but once there, she frowned. The counters were spotless, and there wasn’t a single dish in the sink. There was no sign of the coveted pie except for the lingering scent of spices in the air.
Confused, and a little desperate, she began a search. She looked in the oven, the fridge, and even the pantry as if her husband would have stashed it in there. “Where is it?” she muttered, her excitement beginning to wane.
The sound of her phone buzzing on the counter caught her attention, and she grabbed it to find a text from Tobias’s mother, Vivian: Tobias wanted me to tell you he’ll be home shortly. He just dropped off the pumpkin pie, and it smells divine. The ladies are just going to love it!
Casey’s heart sank, and she knew it was logical, but tears began to form in her eyes. The pie wasn’t for her? How could that be? Hormones were a real thing, and her head was filling up with irrational thoughts. He didn’t make the pie for me. He knows how much I love his pumpkin pie. Doesn’t he love me anymore? Why wouldn’t he make ME a pie? I’m having his baby! I'm his wife!
When Tobias walked through the door a short time later, he found Casey sitting on the couch, hugging a pillow against her chest as tears rolled down her cheeks.
“Case?” He said, his voice filled with concern as he set down a grocery bag and rushed to her side. “Baby! What’s wrong? Are you okay? Is it the baby?”
Casey shook her head through her tears. “No. It’s just... just... you didn’t make the pie for me!”
“What?” Tobias blinked.
“The pumpkin pie! I was so excited. But you made it for your mom's dinner party. You didn’t think about me.”
The tiny crack in her voice tugged at Tobais’s heart, and he wrapped his arms around her. “Casey, of course I thought about you. My mom asked me to make one for her friends, and—”
“That’s my point!” she interrupted, her intonation rising. “You made it for your mom and her friends, not your pregnant wife who’s been throwing up every day and finally wanted something to eat!”
Tobias stifled a laugh, knowing it would only make matters worse. Leaning closer, he brushed a strand of hair from her face. “Casey, listen to me. I made the pie for my mom because she asked me to, but I knew you’d want one, too, so…” He reached for the grocery bag and pulled it onto his lap. “I stopped at the store on the way home to get ingredients for one more.”
“You’re... you’re making me one, too?” Casey asked, her lips quivering.
“Of course,” he replied, his voice gentle. “I’ll make it right now. As if I'd ever deny you."
Casey covered her face, her tears spilling once more. “I’m so sorry, baby,” she mumbled. “I know I’m being ridiculous. These damn hormones are doing a number on me.”
“You’re not being ridiculous,” he insisted, kissing her cheek. “You’re pregnant, and you want pie. There’s absolutely nothing ridiculous about that.”
Casey laughed softly, her eyes taking on a playful glint. “Did you get whipped cream, too?”
Tobias pulled a can from the paper bag, his grin turning mischievous. “Is that even a question? Though, to be fair,” he said, placing a hand on her tiny bump. “I believe whipped cream is partly responsible for us being in this situation.”
“Stop,” Casey giggled. “You know it was my boudoir photo shoot that did this.”
“Perhaps,” he grinned as his mind raced back to that day. “But I believe whipped cream was also involved. Now,” he said, jumping to his feet. “Let me get started on this pie. If my baby wants pumpkin pie, then pumpkin pie she gets.”
The two of them went to the kitchen, and Casey sat at the counter as Tobias began pulling out bowls and measuring cups he had put away just hours before.
“I can’t believe you’re making another pie just for me,” she whispered.
Tobias stopped, turning to her with an affectionate smile. “I’d do anything for you. If you want a pumpkin pie every day until this baby’s born, so be it.”
Casey couldn’t help but laugh. “If you do that, I’ll look like a pumpkin before the baby is here.”
He moved toward her and cupped her face in his hands. “You’re pregnant, Case. I think that’s to be expected. But I know you’re going to be the sexiest pumpkin I’ve ever seen.”
She rolled her eyes, but her smile gave her away. “You’re too much, Dr. Carrick.”
“Nah, never enough for you,” he replied, kissing her gently.
Once the pie was in the oven, Tobias and Casey retreated to the couch, a warm blanket wrapped snuggly around them.
“Now, don’t worry,” he whispered into her ear. “As soon as it’s done, you get the first slice.”
“Was that ever a question?” she teased, nuzzling closer to him.
Tobias placed a hand on her belly. “I love you so much, Casey. Both of you.”
She tilted her head up to kiss him. “We love you too.”
Casey smiled, reveling in the moment; she was exactly where she wanted to be. She married Tobias for a variety of reasons, and pumpkin pie expertise wasn’t among them, but if she was being honest, it sure was a nice bonus.
Thanks for this ask - Here is part 2 of a series of little drabbles to see what Tobias does with the pumpkin pie throughout different periods of his life (and in some different worlds, too!) I hope you enjoy it as much as Tobias (and I) love pumpkin pie!
Book: Open Heart (pre-series)
Characters: Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey
Rating: Teen
Words: 1,003
Summary: It's the Hopkins years, and if you think Ethan & Tobias's rivalry takes a break for the holidays, you would be mistaken!
A/N: Participating in @choicesholidays Winter Event - "You did what with the pumpkin pie?" and @choicesdecember2024 Day 1 - Naughty and Day 8 Spices.
It wasn’t a typical night in Ethan and Tobias's Baltimore apartment. Tonight, neither man would be found hovering over textbooks. There was no studying and no cramming for exams, but their competitive nature wasn't taking a break - tonight, it just took on a different flavor.
The smells of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin engulfed their home, spreading out to the hallways. It smelled delicious, even if the kitchen looked like a lab experiment gone horribly wrong. Flour dusted every surface, and bits of dough were scattered everywhere. The joyful strains of Christmas music played in the background, but they were barely audible over their neverending bickering.
Tobias was proud as a peacock, holding up his pie crust as if it were a trophy. “This... this right here is art. Crisp, buttery perfection so flaky and delicious, it has been known to make angels weep.”
Ethan’s eyes rolled back in his head. “Angels don’t give a shit about your pie crust, Tobias. But they do care about flavor. It’s all about the pie filling, and I’ve perfected the ratio of spice to sweetness in mine.”
"Are you calling me bland, Becky?" Tobias smirked. "Please, I'm waiting for you to add raisins to the mix, just like you did to your potato salad on July Fourth."
This had been going on all day. All it took was Tobias casually mentioning his mother’s pumpkin pie recipe - then Ethan insisted his was better. Anyone who knew the two of them knew there was only one way this could end, and that’s how the two future doctors found themselves elbow-deep in flour, vying for culinary supremacy.
Ethan’s girlfriend, Vincenza, sat perched on a stool nearby – close enough to bear witness but far enough away to avoid becoming a casualty. She was as patient as she was beautiful, quietly sipping her wine as she watched the chaos unfold. “For the record, if this ends in a tie, I’m declaring myself the winner just for sitting through this. It’s not exactly how I planned on spending date night.”
Dina, Tobias’s “flavor of the week,” leaned against the fridge with a grin. The raven haired law student had quickly adapted to the whirlwind that was Tobias Carrick, and tonight was no exception. “Hey, I’m just here for free pie,” she laughed. “But I have to admit, you two are taking this far too seriously.”
“Too seriously?” Tobias gasped, clutching his rolling pin to his chest. “There is no such thing as ‘too seriously’ when it comes to pumpkin pie.”
“For once, you're right,” Ethan said without missing a beat. “This is serious business, Dina... it's not for the faint of heart!”
By the time they placed the pies in the oven, the kitchen looked like a war zone. Vincenza snapped a photo for posterity—or, as she put it, for “evidence when you inevitably blame each other for this mess.”
About an hour later, the two pies emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant. Dina blindly placed a sticker with the letter A and another with the letter B at the bottom of both pies. Then, the four of them sat around the small table for the taste-off.
Vincenza went first, thoughtfully tasting a bite of Pie A. She was impressed. “The crust is really good – buttery, flaky... and the filling isn’t bad either. This is off to a solid start.” She cleansed her palate with a sip of wine before moving on to Pie B. Her eyebrows shot up. “Wow! This one is spicy! Great texture... it has a bite. They're both great, but it's B for me.”
Dina was next and eager to offer her opinion. “Pie A feels classic, like something that would be served on antique china at a fancy Thanksgiving dinner. But Pie B is more... adventurous. It’s like a modern twist on an old classic. It’s great, but A is more my speed.”
Tobias and Ethan each tried to maintain poker faces as they bit into what they assumed to be their own creations. Tobias declared A the winner, while Ethan insisted it was B.
Vincenza peeked under the pie pans. “Not that it matters since it’s a 2-2 tie, but Pie A belonged to Tobias, and Pie B was Ethan’s.”
“A tie,” Tobias groaned. “I demand a recount.”
But Ethan merely shrugged, taking a bite of Tobias’s pie. “Honestly, I’m impressed. Your crust is better than I expected. If you’d just used my pie filling, you might’ve actually won this thing.”
“You two are insufferable,” Vincenza said, shaking her head with a laugh. “But at least we get two great pies out of this!”
As the night went on, Dina stood up with a yawn. “Well, I’m exhausted,” she said, giving Tobias a pointed look. “I’m going to head to bed.”
“I’ll be right in, gorgeous," Tobias winked.
But before he made his way to his room, Ethan caught his friend grabbing the remainder of his pie filling and a can of whipped cream from the fridge out of the corner of his eye. Tobias almost made a clean getaway when Ethan’s voice called out.
“What are you going to do with that?” he asked, eyes narrowed.
Tobias paused in the doorway, his signature mischievous grin spreading across his face as he turned around slowly. “Oh, nothing wholesome, my friend. Nothing wholesome at all... do you really want to know?”
Ethan groaned, running a hand down his face. “Please, forget I asked.”
“Done,” Tobias nodded, “but unless you and Chenza are planning on making some noise of your own, you may want to put up the Christmas music. Capiche?”
“You know, getting through medical school is hard enough without having to deal with you.”
Ethan stepped into the living room and joined Vincenza on the couch, laughing despite himself. He turned up the volume of the radio before slipping an arm around his girlfriend. Life with Tobias was always unpredictable—but it was never, ever boring.
Again, I’m sorry for my lack of participation this month. This hadn’t been my plan. Thanks y’all for understanding.
I think I’ve caught up on reblogging everything here. If I missed something, please do let me know. I’ll start reading them all and reblog to my personal blog as I am able.
He literally tells everyone every day that Daenarya loves him and he did that. After like the first 3 days, everyone is just like WE KNOW! But he doesn't care, he's just so happy. He is going to be a nervous wreck when Iliana is born.
This is probably my most pointless commission but I saw a reference photo and it felt so much like them that I had to ask the lovely @weetlebeetle to sketch it for me! ❤️❤️❤️
[Mal Volari x Daenarya Blades 1 + Beyond] [Mal’s Orphanage]
[Mal Volari x Daenarya Blades 2 AU]
Premise: It’s time for the annual holiday snowball fight between cousins, but a new recruit joins the fray.
Book: Open Heart (post series)
Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine), Sienna Trinh x M!OC (Max Valentine); feat. Tony Valentine (M!OC)
Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff.
Words: 1,215
A/N: This fic was requested by @snoopdogcone who wanted to read about a snowball fight. Submission for @choicesdecember2024 and for @choicesholidays prompt for both: snowball fight.
The snow fell thick and fast over the sprawling oceanside estate in Newport, blanketing the manicured lawns and transforming towering hedges into a frosted wonderland. The Atlantic, a steel-gray expanse, seemed even more imposing, with waves rolling dramatically under a heavy, snow-laden sky.
Cassie Valentine woke to the sound of waves crashing faintly in the distance and the sight of snow falling on the beach. After an unusually warm start to the season, it looked like Mother Nature had finally heard her prayers and sent snow in time for Christmas.
She jumped out of bed, grabbed her cell phone to snap a picture of the snowy landscape outside her bedroom window, and texted her brother and cousin a challenge for the first snow fight of the season.
Team Double Trouble was ready to retake the crown after a two-year hiatus.
Max Valentine stood on the edge of the garden path, squinting through the flurries at his target. He packed a snowball in his gloved hands, the crunch of compacted snow incredibly satisfying as he launched the projectile toward his twin sister standing near the gazebo.
Cassie looked up in just time, dodging the snowball that whizzed past her head and exploded harmlessly against the column.
“Hey!” she shouted in outrage. “We’re supposed to be on the same side.”
Her cheeks were flushed pink from the cold, her blonde hair peeking out from under her knit beanie.
“Sorry, sis,” he grinned, unapologetic. “Tony’s taking forever, and I got antsy. You don’t mind, right?”
“Oh, well, in that case…” Cassie scooped up a handful of snow and hurled a perfectly aimed snowball that hit him square in the shoulder.
She chortled in satisfaction, dusting snow off her gloves. “I don’t mind at all.”
He brushed the snow off his coat and fixed her with a mock glare. “Laugh it up, but remember—"
Before Max could finish, they heard a whistle and a cold, wet thud as a snowball smacked squarely against his back. Cassie barely had time to register her surprise before another missile hit her on the arm.
They both turned, sputtering and laughing, to see Tony grinning triumphantly.
“Gotcha!” he called out. “I knew you’d get impatient waiting for me.”
“Fighting dirty,” Cassie said in admiration. She shifted her stance to distract Tony and give Max a chance to retaliate. “Didn’t think you had it in you.”
As their cousin preened at the praise, Max lobbed a snowball in a high, impressive arc toward Tony, who barely managed to duck in time. The snowball sailed past, shattering against the wooden trellis behind him with a satisfying thud.
“Ha! You miss—” Tony’s jubilant taunt was cut short as Cassie’s snowball struck him square in the face, exploding in a spray of powdery white.
“Direct hit!” Cassie cheered, pumping her fist in the air, her laughter ringing out as Tony sputtered in disbelief.
“Alright, you asked for it.” Tony rushed to crouch behind a low stone wall, using it as a fortress.
He chucked a snowball over the hedge at the twins, but it veered wide.
The fight descended into chaos, with snow flying in every direction. Max charged, attempting to storm his cousin’s stronghold, but Tony pelted him with a rapid barrage that had him retreating with a laugh.
Cassie used the distraction to close the distance and launched another snowball that caught Tony in the back. Soon, he was surrounded, with the twins closing on both sides and nowhere to retreat.
“Why is it always two against one?” he yelped, shuddering as Cassie gleefully dumped a handful of snow down the back of his coat, and Max showered his hair with more.
“Maybe it’s time to even the playing field.”
The three of them looked up in surprise at the casually spoken words.
Ethan was striding toward them, his long coat flapping behind him, a confident smile on his face. He carried a loosely packed snowball in one hand, tossing it casually into the air and catching it.
“Oh, thank god,” Tony exclaimed, pushing himself off the snowy ground. “Ethan, please tell me you’re my reinforcements against these two.”
Ethan chuckled, shaking his head. “From what I saw, you desperately need help.”
“No new recruits mid-game,” Max said from behind the wall, brandishing a snowball in one hand. He sneered at his cousin. “Unless Tony wants to surrender first, and we reset.”
Before Tony could answer, Ethan’s snowball flew through the air, hitting the stone wall just inches from Max’s head. Snow exploded in a satisfying puff, dusting his blond hair and drawing a startled yelp.
“We’re on the same team, Scout,” Max complained, ruffling his hair to shake off the snow.
“Sorry,” Cassie said with mock innocence, throwing Ethan a flirtatious wink, her lips curving into an impish smile.
Max struck back, but Ethan anticipated his move and stepped aside. Unfortunately for Max, his wife, Sienna, stepped into view, taking the brunt of his attack.
Her loud gasp was followed by a stunned silence, broken only by Max’s sheepish grin and a faint “Oops” as she glared at him.
“You jerk!”
“Sorry, Si,” Max said, leaving his position behind the barricade to help brush the snow from her coat. “I didn’t see you there.”
“This is how you treat innocent bystanders?” Sienna demanded, her brown eyes snapping with fiery indignation. “It’s good I left Noah inside with your mom .”
She sneezed loudly, the cold snow tickling her nostrils and sending a spray of powdery flakes into the air.
Tony hid a grin behind his hand, stepping back cautiously to avoid getting caught in the crossfire. Cassie leaned into Ethan, her gloved hand entwined with his, stifling her laughter behind his arm so Sienna wouldn’t catch her amusement.
“It was an accident, babe,” Max said with an abashed smile, attempting his best charm even as she batted his hands away. “Let me make it up to you.”
Sienna harrumphed, her breath puffing in the cold air as she grumbled loudly about how she’d been treated and stomped back up the path leading from the garden to the mud room.
“So, Ethan and I won, right?” Tony declared.
His words of victory were drowned under a volley of snowballs as Max and Cassie launched a coordinated strike that had Tony tumbling into the snow.
The twins celebrated their victory, their laughter ringing through the frosty air. Max hoisted Cassie onto his shoulder, spinning her around as she squealed in delight while Ethan extended a hand to Tony, helping him up.
Shortly after, the four of them trudged back toward the house, ready to change out of their damp clothes and get a hot drink.
Max walked ahead, his mind focused on finding Sienna and apologizing again. He was almost at the mudroom door when, without warning, a cascade of freezing snow dumped over him in an icy, shocking wave.
Spluttering, he wiped the snow from his face and blinked up. Standing in the doorway was Sienna, an empty bucket dangling from her hand, her expression one of pure triumph.
She arched an eyebrow, a sly smile tugging at her lips. “Now, we’re even.”
I can't thank the wonderful artsy_elii on Instagram enough for this precious holiday art of Bryce and Olivia. It's just so merry and bright, just like them! This beautiful art was gifted to me by the loveliest and most generous @fictionangyl. I am so grateful to be part of such a wonderful fandom! ❤️❤️❤️
The bell still rings for me, as it does for all who truly believe
Reading books and sharing stories is something that has been important to Alex and Thomas throughout their relationship and something they've instilled in their children. The magic of reading, of stories, of imagination, of creating, of possibilities!
The Polar Express is one of Vincent's favorite books, so he picked it for them to read together the night before Christmas. Felicity likes it but she insists there simply aren't enough reindeer to make it the best Christmas book!
Christmas is about finding the magic in what could be, not necessarily what is and appreciating the little things that turn out to be the most important of all. I think that speaks to everything Thomas and Alex are and what they hold most dear.
I can't thank Ainna enough for bringing this art of my favorite family too life.
Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate. May your holiday season be filled with joy, laughter, and wonderful memories. 💛
[All Thomas Hunt x Alex Masterlists] [Halex Commission tag]
Thanks for this ask - I'll be making a series of little drabbles to see what Tobias does with the pumpkin pie throughout different periods of his life (and in some different worlds, too!) I hope you enjoy it as much as Tobias (and I) love pumpkin pie!
Book: Open Heart (pre-series)
Characters: Tobias Carrick (child), Charles x Vivian Carrick
Rating: General
Words: 911
Summary: It's Thanksgiving, and 6-year-old Tobias wishes the guests would go home so he could get comfy and dig into his favorite treat. When it seems like that will never happen, he jumps on an opportunity to make his dream come true.
A/N: Participating in @choicesholidays Winter Event - "You did what with the pumpkin pie?" and @choicesdecember2024 - Sweets
Thanksgiving Day at the Carrick’s Georgetown townhome was always an elegant affair, and this year was no exception. The house was abuzz with activity as the scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and roast turkey wafted through the air. While the grown-ups were content, enjoying some laughs and conversation, six-year-old Tobias's patience was running thin.
He was still sitting patiently in his chair, but his swinging legs indicated that wouldn't be the case much longer. His patent leather shoes made a squeaking sound every time they rubbed together and, on a typical day, this would have driven his mother, Vivian, nuts, but today, she was too busy to notice at first...
“Tobias!” She finally shouted over her shoulder. “Stop fidgeting.”
“But, Mom!” he whined, tugging at the tie of his tiny suit. “You said I could change after dinner, and dinner was a long time ago.”
Vivian scrunched down beside him. “I know, dear, but dessert hasn’t been served yet. I promise you can change out of your suit as soon as we eat dessert.”
Dessert.
Just the thought of it brought a smile to his face. He looked forward to Thanksgiving dessert all year, especially the pumpkin pie and he didn't think it was fair that he had to wait any longer.
His father, Charles, entered the room, laughing heartily at a joke his brother Phillip had just told. Charles was in his element, playing the gracious host, but when he caught sight of a dejected Tobias, he raised a brow.
“What’s the matter, son?” He asked. “You’re not your usual happy self.”
Tobias crossed his arms, a frown spreading across his pudgy little face. “I’m tired of being in a suit, Daddy! I want pie, and I want comfy clothes!”
Charles chuckled softly. “Well, you’ll have both of those things very soon,” he assured.
“But it’s taking forever!” Tobias groaned.
Before Charles had a chance to answer, a loud noise came from the kitchen, and Scout, the family’s golden retriever puppy, came rushing into the dining room with Mrs. Johnson, the family's cook, in hot pursuit. The puppy, had Mrs. Johnson's favorite spatula clamped in its mouth and wagged its tail in triumph.
“Scout! Get back here! You little thief!” she yelled.
Unaware of any wrongdoing, Scout continued to circle the room with glee, amusing the grown-ups. That's when a lightbulb went off in Tobias’s head. Even at his tender age, he knew an opportunity when it was presented, and he wasn’t about to let this one go.
With his parents under the table trying to retrieve the spatula from Scout, he slipped off his chair, grinning as he rushed to the sideboard. He licked his lips, staring at the golden pie. Victory was about to be his!
He reached up and grabbed the edge of the crystal cake stand, tugging it closer to the edge when the pie began to wobble precariously, but Tobias steadied it, his heart pounding as he grabbed a fork and dug in.
He was in heaven. The smile on his face growing as he shoveled the sweet, creamy treat into his mouth. A happy sigh of relief escaped him, and his earlier frustration now gone. But his momentary bliss came screeching to an end when...
“Tobias!” his mother's voice echoed through the room. Startled, Tobias jumped up, his elbow plowing into the cake stand, sending the pie tumbling to the floor with a wet splat. Scout came running and made a valiant attempt to lunge for it, but Tobias grabbed her just in time.
“No, Scout!” he cried. “Dogs can’t eat pumpkin pie!”
“No, they shouldn’t,” Mrs. Johnson scolded. “But little boys shouldn’t eat it before they’re told to either.”
Vivian stood there, her mouth hanging open. Charles and the rest of the family stood behind her, peering in amusement.
“Tobias Charles Carrick!” Vivian hollered. “What on earth have you done?”
“I—I just wanted a bite!” he stammered, his bright blue eyes pleading for forgiveness. “I've been waiting a really long time, Mom.”
Vivian pressed a hand to her temple, her patience wearing thin. Charles stepped forward, crouching beside his son to survey the pumpkin pie carnage.
“Well,” he said, tapping his son’s shoulder. “At least he’s got good taste.”
Vivian shot her husband a look. “Charles! This isn’t the time!”
But little Tobias tugged his mother’s hand, tears brimming in his eyes. “I’m sorry, Mom. I just really, really wanted pie…”
Vivian couldn’t help but smile. “I know, sweetheart. But you can’t just take things because you’re impatient. Dessert is meant to be shared, not sneaked, and it’s certainly not meant to be splattered on the floor.”
Tobias nodded. “I know. I won’t do it again, Mommy. I promise.”
Vivian gave him a big hug. “Alright. Let’s clean this up, and I’ll see if there’s another pie in the kitchen.”
Tobias’s face lit up. “Really?”
“Really!” Vivian replied, ruffling his hair. “But why don’t you go up to your room and put on your jammies first. I think you've suffered enough.”
He didn’t have to be told twice. “All right!” he hollered, rushing down the hall and shedding his suit, piece by piece along the way with Scout yapping behind him.
Charles wrapped his arm around his wife as they watched their son’s impromptu striptease from a distance.
“That boy is going to drive us crazy when he’s in college,” he laughed.
Vivian looked up at her husband quizzically. “In college?” She questioned. “He’s driving us crazy right now!”
“Yes, he is,” Charles laughed, placing a kiss on Vivian's head. “But we wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Premise: Ethan and Cassie have their hands full getting ready for their first holiday as parents.
Book: Open Heart (post series)
Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine)
Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff.
Words: 885
A/N: Submission to @choicesdecember2024 prompt 12 "decorations" and to @choicesholidays Winter Holidays 2024 event.
It was a postcard-perfect winter day. Light snow fell outside the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Boston Harbor. Weak rays of sunlight struggled to break through the brooding gray clouds drifting above chopping waters.
Flames from a gas fireplace flickered softly, casting a warm glow across the room, while Christmas music filled the air with joyful melodies. The ordinarily pristine living room was a cheerful chaos of garlands, stray ornaments and empty decoration boxes.
“Eloise, no!”
Ethan Ramsey rushed to grab a forgotten piece of sparkly tinsel from the floor before his daughter could put it in her mouth.
“This is not candy,” he said firmly, crouching before her and easing the string out of her hands.
Hard as it was, he reminded himself not to waver when her lips quivered, and tears pooled in her green eyes at being denied a treat.
Kids, like dogs, could sense weakness.
Not that he’d share such a sentiment out loud. He’d learned his lesson the first time a few months ago upon seeing his wife’s shock and exasperation at his matter-of-fact statement.
Ethan picked Eloise up from the floor, tucked her against his chest and joined the rest of his family at the newly decorated tree in the corner.
“We should’ve trimmed the tree during the twins’ nap time,” he told his wife.
“Maybe,” Cassie smiled softly. “But it’s their first Christmas tree, even if they won’t remember anything.”
She jostled Sophie in her arms, stopping her from pulling a shiny ornament off the tree.
“No,” Cassie said gently, shaking one finger for emphasis.
It had taken them twice as long to decorate the tree because the twins kept getting into the box of decorations and running off with ornaments.
Well, crawling more than running, thought Ethan. Even though the girls had taken their first steps a week ago, they were more likely to crawl than walk just yet.
Cassie had laughed at their antics while he had pinched the bridge of his nose so many times he feared it was permanently indented.
“Switch,” said Cassie when Sophie got restless and reached for her father.
Ethan passed Eloise to Cassie with practiced ease, then scooped Sophie into his arms. In one smooth motion, the four of them came together in a warm embrace, a brief moment of connection before they naturally drifted apart.
Sophie babbled excitedly and patted his cheek, looking over her shoulder at the tree and then back at him.
“I see,” Ethan nodded sagely. “Yes, the tree is very pretty.”
He adjusted her position so she was facing the tree, his arm holding her securely against his front.
“Just two more, and we’re done,” Cassie said, pulling Eloise back when she tried to snatch the garland off the tree.
She reached for the open box on the coffee table and removed two colorful ornaments in the shape of snow globes with ‘Eloise’ and ‘Sophie’ written inside.
It was an early gift from their grandfather, and Ethan knew his father would appreciate seeing it on the tree.
“Here,” Cassie said, handing him Sophie’s ornament.
Ethan took Sophie’s hand in his, gently wrapping her tiny fingers around the ornament.
“Let’s hang this one together, Soph,” he said softly, guiding her toward a low branch on the tree.
Cassie held Eloise steady as the little girl’s chubby hand reached out to grasp her ornament.
“Eloise, this spot looks perfect for yours,” Cassie said, pointing to a sturdy branch beside her sister’s.
The twins cooed and babbled, their laughter spilling into the room as they clumsily helped their parents attach the ornaments to the tree. When both ornaments were finally in place, Cassie leaned back and admired the tree.
“Their first ornaments on the tree,” she said, her voice warm with pride and nostalgia. “Soon, they’ll be old enough to decorate their own Twin Tree.”
Ethan wrapped an arm around her shoulders, still holding Sophie. “Dad’s going to love this.”
“Good job, babe,” Cassie teased, adjusting Eloise in her arms so the twins were side by side. “You’re practically a Christmas tree expert now.”
Ethan rolled his eyes. “Nice to know I have a marketable skill in case the bottom ever falls out of medicine.”
“You have many skills,” she smirked, her gaze dropping to the front of his pants.
Ethan knew their daughters were too young to understand, but that didn’t stop the blush from spreading across his face. Cassie laughed, enjoying his reaction.
She tilted her head to press a soft kiss to the underside of his jaw, her voice low as she murmured, “To be continued.”
The twins started to get restless again, and Ethan knew it wouldn’t be long before they made a grab for the decorations on the tree. Lately, he and Cassie had their hands full just trying to keep up with their ever-active children.
“Here. You do the honors,” he said, handing her the remote for the lights.
“Let’s light this baby up!” Cassie exclaimed, flicking the switch.
The twins let out a delighted “Oh!” in unison as the lights flickered to life, their wide eyes reflecting the colorful glow.
Ethan didn’t believe in perfection, but in this moment—with the soft glow of the fireplace and twinkling lights reflecting in the twins’ wide, curious eyes—he couldn’t imagine anything more perfect.
TW: Mentions of Cancer, anxiety, drug abuse, alcohol abuse.
Summary: Keiki and Koa are struggling to find time to go on their first date. Will they succeed?
Note: I used the prompts Tidings, Lights and Joy from the @choicesdecember2024
A/N: Okay I know it’s a bit on the longer side, but trust me you won’t regret reading this story. This shaped up to be one of my favorite stories I’ve ever written. So enjoy 🌸🌸
A/N 2: If you want to know how Keiki and Koa met here’s their story Wildflower. Happy reading 🌸
Keiki
1.30 am
I paced around my room and hoped I wouldn’t wake my brother, Luna or the twins.
”Come on pick up. Pick up.“ I kept muttering.
A few seconds later I heard Alexis' sleep ridden voice.
”Keiks, do you know what time it is?“
”Yes. But I need your help.“
”Fine. Only because you’re my best friend otherwise I’d hang up. Okay spill girl. What’s so important that you had to wake me?“
”My date with Koa? Like how do I ask him?“
”That’s the emergency? Oh come on Keiks. Look, you can wait until he asks you out.“
”Yeah I’d wait until I was 80. No, I want to ask him out.“
”Okay then go to him, flick your eyelashes, smile and ask him.“
”I’m not Anne. What if I wrote him a letter?“
”Do you want to put it in morse code too?“
”What?“ I was confused for a second by what Alexis said.
Lexi‘s sigh was audible even from my end.
”Look, if you like him, ask him. There’s nothing wrong with a woman asking out a guy. With that being said Alexis is going back to sleep. Byeee.“
The beeping sound of Alexis who’d hung up on me echoed in my ear. Before I could think better of it I shot Koa a text.
»Are you still awake?«
Minutes passed by without a response. I waited and waited.
Worst anxious moment of my life. If you don’t count applying for colleges and waiting for a reply.
I sighed and dropped down on my bed with my phone on my stomach.
He was probably fast asleep by now. Tomorrow we both had morning classes, he was going to be at the lab a lot. And I knew he’s got his study for corals on his mind.
Damn it, I should have sent that text a long time ago, not waited half a century to hit send. A tiny piece of me was glad I did because I fucking wanted to get to know him. So what if I asked him out first? Alexis was right. Where does it say the guy has to make the first step?
I sighed again and looked at my screen only to see there’s no response.
Tired of waiting I quickly got dressed in my pink coral spaghetti dress and put on some sandals. It’s good that the dress is easy to manoeuvre in, otherwise I’d never make it outside. Or worse I’d have to use the front door. Sneaking out isn’t always as easy as it looks in movies, but thank god for the big tree sitting outside my window.
Slowly I waited for my foot to find stability on the branch and then I climbed down the thick tree branch. Once I was outside, I made sure that the window was wide open so I could sneak back in.
I always took a walk at the beach when I felt restless. Or anxious. Or both like right now. I started walking and I felt my phone vibrate in my hand. I saw it’s not only a text. No, he was actually calling me. Shit. I’m not prepared for that. What should I say?
Okay let’s take a deep breath and answer the phone like a normal person and not like a love struck weirdo.
Koa
My phone lit up on my nightstand and I fumbled for it in the dark, only to push it over the edge of the nightstand, making my phone land on the floor.
”Shit. Why does the universe hate me so much?“ I cursed and turned on the lamp on my nightstand to see where my phone went. I found it and saw it was still intact.
Once my phone was unlocked I saw I got a text from Keiki. Instantly making me smile. What is she doing awake? It’s 2:00 am.
I had the wild urge to hear her voice, not just see a text and respond to it.
Looking around in my contacts I found »Wildflower«, clicked the call button before I could change my mind. After a second I heard her voice clearly as if she was sitting right next to me.
”Ko?“ Hearing her voice soothed something deep within me. Like the ocean always does. She has the same effect on me as the ocean waves.
”Hey Wildflower. Missed me already?“
”Dream on. But now that you answered your phone already...“
”What now? You’ve got something important to tell me at 2 am?“ I can’t resist teasing her.
She scoffed.
”Smartass.“ She replied.
I laughed out loud and I‘m at ease as I sat up in my bed, talking to a girl I’m falling harder and harder for each day.
”Okay we’ve established I’m the smart one…“
”And one with a great ass.“ She said though it must’ve slipped out as I could hear her sigh on the other end.
”That‘s not what I wanted to say.“ I heard her mutter.
”Oh please tell me how you really feel. Have been checking me out, haven’t you?“
”So what if I have? Is that a crime? You’re very good-looking and you know it.“ She responded.
”I don’t actually give a damn if other people find me good-looking or not. There’s only one person’s opinion I care about.“ I said and couldn't help the smile that bloomed on my face.
”Who?“ Her voice sounded suspiciously jealous and I couldn’t help but chuckle.
”Glad you find this funny Haulani.“ She said and I grinned even though she couldn’t see it.
”Where are you right now? I can hear the waves crashing.“
It’s true I’ve been able to hear waves in the background and thought she opened her window. Her family lives close to the beach I think.
”I’m at the beach. I couldn’t sleep. So I went for a walk.“ Her voice sounded far away, as if she was somewhere else with her thoughts.
”Why don’t I come along? Only if you want?“ I asked tentatively.
There was a beat of silence before I heard her voice again.
”Sure I’d love some company.“
I smiled as I heard that she’d love my company. I just can’t help it, she makes me happy in a way no one else has gotten close to in a while. Not even Isabella. But that’s a story for another time.
”Text me where you are and I’ll be there in a sec.“
”Ok.“ We hung up and a second later I got a text with her location. I was faster out the door than you could yell pancakes.
Keiki
I slipped off my sandals and wandered around. I dipped my feet in the cool ocean water as I was waiting for Koa. It was almost 3 am now.
Damn we’re going to be so tired tomorrow, but who the fuck cared? As long as we had a good time, who‘s going to mind?
As soon as I thought that, I heard someone coming closer and when I turned my head I saw Koa‘s tall frame coming closer.
He really came. He honest to god came when I called.
Without any thought my feet kept moving, getting me closer to Koa. And when I stood in front of him I just wanted to hug him because he was here.
As if he could read my mind he opened his arms wide. Making me almost crush him, but he only chuckled and didn't say anything.
”So you missed me this much, huh?“
He said, half of my face still pressed against his chest, nodding. He smelled of fresh laundry and something like mint. I looked up at him.
”Yeah. I haven’t realized how much I’ve missed you.“ And then I hugged him tighter, if that’s even possible, as he kissed the top of my head.
”Welcome to the club. I’ve missed you too, Wildflower.“ He mumbled and we stayed like this for some time not able or willing to let go of the other. But eventually we released each other from our embrace and started walking down the deserted beach.
He pulled me closer and I leaned into him. The soft ocean breeze pulled at our hair.
”So what prompted the walk? You mentioned you couldn’t sleep.“ He asked and I didn't know what to say at first, so I shrugged my shoulders noncommittally.
”I had a lot on my mind. My studies, but I was also thinking about when we’d go out. You know? A date? We’ve said we would but we never seem to find the right time. And I kinda got sad when I thought about it.“ I said, realizing I shared more than I wanted to.
Koa stopped short, making me almost bite sand.
”That’s what kept you up at night? Come on Keiks. That‘s easily solved. I’ll pick you up tomorrow at eight.“
”It’s already tomorrow.“ I pointed out.
”Even better. Which means less time to waste.“ He said and I could feel the first rain drops on my skin.
We both looked up and tried to gauge what to do.
”Should we make a run for it?“ Koa asked as the rain began to hit harder.
”Race you to the car.“ I grinned and sprinted away, not giving him time to answer. I could feel his smile as I was running towards his car, Koa close on my feet.
Koa
I let her have fun. If it helped her distract her from whatever kept her awake at night I’ll let her have fun and be carefree.
As I reached my car Keiki was already waiting for me. We were both soaked to the bone, but we were both grinning like idiots.
A few seconds later I just wanted to feel her close and the next words that slipped out of my mouth weren’t the ones I wanted to say but I let them spill anyway.
”May I have this dance?“ I extended my hand, and Keiki put her hand in mine.
”It’s raining.“ She pointed out, as if that would stop me from dancing with her.
”So? Let’s have some fun. Come on, don't tell me you’re chicken?“
”Who are you calling chicken? Let’s dance Romeo.“
”Music to my ears.“
Keiki grinned as we danced in the rain.
We danced for a couple of minutes for sure, even though it felt as if we'd danced for hours. The heartbeat was the rhythm that was guiding us.
I spun her away from me and a second later lightning struck the sky and we both clung to each other of our own accord.
I’m honestly not sure who moved first, but in the end it didn’t really matter.
A second later I cupped her face into my hands. I needed her lips as if I was dying of thirst. Drinking from her lips like they were wine. She leaned into me, fitting into me like a glove. Her hands roamed over my wet shirt, and she clearly felt it wasn’t enough and went on her tiptoes to reach my hair only to drag her hand through it. Making me smile against her lips.
I didn’t know for how long we were standing there kissing each other, but I knew right then and there I was in trouble.
We’ve known each other for months now, but it seems all we have are stolen moments. I wanted to go out with her and get to know her better for some time now. To find out what she liked and didn‘t like. How she looked when she woke up in the morning. What face she made when she didn‘t like a certain dish or drink.
All the small details that made her, her. Unique. Beautiful. Absolutely amazing. My Wildflower.
I broke off the kiss and leaned my forehead against hers. As our breathing slowed down I took her face in my hands and just brushed a strand of chocolate hair out of her face, not able to resist touching her. Her whiskey brown eyes turned a shade darker from passion, which is a detail I stored away for later.
”Your place or mine?“ She said before I could mouth anything and I laughed softly.
”Well I can take you to mine. Just for sleeping. We both have morning classes. So we should get some shuteye.“ I said when I took out my phone to look at the time 3.55, I also checked if my phone was okay only to see it was intact and there was no water damage from the rain.
Keiki nodded.
”Let me at least write my brother a note saying I’m already at the university. So he’ll see it first thing in the morning.“
”Sounds good.“
We both got into the car making a pit stop at Keiki’s place so she could leave a note. I memorized where she lived so I could drop by for midnight dates like these.
After that I drove us to my place. Taking the girl I’m falling for each day more and more to my place.
It was kinda nerve wracking since I wanted to impress her just because she was becoming important to me.
I turned off the ignition and waited. I don’t know for what. A sign? Lightning? For pigs to grace the sky? Dragons?
”So are we going inside or are we going to sleep in the car?“ Keiki broke the silence and I turned to look at her, her hair still a little wet from the rain. I couldn’t imagine my hair looked any better.
I nodded to myself and exited the car as she did the same. The slamming of the car doors was somehow louder in the quiet evening air than expected.
Damn if the slamming of a car door didn’t make me almost jump out of my skin, then I’m really nervous.
And I swam with sharks, so nothing really fazed me except showing the girl I really liked my humble abode.
”Right. Yes. Sure come on.“
I looked at the beautiful planted flowers outside and the porch keeping the hot sun away, though the sun was still away for a couple of hours. I opened the front door and went inside.
”You’ve got a nice place.“
”Thanks. I’m renting it from my parents.“
”Really? That’s cool. So you guys live together?“
”No. I have my own place. Almost all five of my siblings have their own place. Since my oldest sister got married and had her baby she and her husband needed a bigger place.“
”Aww. That’s so cute.“
I grinned at Keiki and she smiled warmly back at me. Talking about my family always brought me the greatest joy.
”Yeah Dalia is the cutest. Though my other two siblings live with my parents, since one of my youngest two sisters is 2 and a half.”
”What? Please tell me you have pics.“
”Of course I do. She’s the sweetest. I think mom said she’d bring her around for me to babysit this weekend. You’re welcome to stay if you want.“ I smiled, put my car keys on the counter in the hallway and we continued walking towards the kitchen.
”Are you sure?“ Keiki‘s answer was hesitant as if she didn’t want to intrude but she couldn’t be further from the truth, she was always welcome at my place.
”Yeah. She’ll love you.“
Keiki smiled.
”Then I’d love to. It would be good practice for when I’m babysitting Kehlani and Alaia, my brother and his fiancée's twins.“
Koa gave me a thumbs-up.
”Why don’t I make us some grilled cheese sandwiches?“ I said and got out all the ingredients for some grilled sandwiches.
”Who knew you’re good in the kitchen too?“
”I’m good at many things. Cooking included.“ I winked at her.
”So the whole package?“ She made herself comfortable in one of the kitchen chairs.
”Let’s go with that.“
Keiki grinned and took off her shoes to get into a better seating position.
”I don’t suppose you have some Tabasco sauce?“
”As a matter of fact I do. Keanu loves that stuff so I always keep it on hand.“
I got out the small glass bottle. I don’t fancy it but Keanu loved it and so does Keiki apparently. I got the grilled sandwich done and served them on colorful plates chosen by my niece Dalia.
”Your bromance with Keanu is so sweet.“
”Yeah. Yeah. Eat your grilled cheese sandwich.“ I rolled my eyes.
Keiki stuck out her tongue at me. Before she could react I grabbed her chin and planted a kiss on her lips.
She dropped her sandwich on her plate to pull me closer to her.
A loud clearing of a throat interrupted our momentary bliss.
Keanu stood in the doorway, an exhausted gaze in his eyes. I offered him a piece of sandwich but he shook his head.
”Didn’t mean to interrupt your smooch fest…but…uhh…you said I could crash at your place for a while.“
I scratched my head.
”I suppose I did say that. The room upstairs is all yours.“ I sensed there was more Keanu wanted to say but he didn’t want to mention any of that in front of Keiki, which was totally understood. I nodded at him and he understood. We’d talk more later in the morning when we got up.
”Thanks man. Nice to see you again Keiki.“
Keiki who was blushing smiled.
”It’s nice to see you again too, Keanu.“
”If you guys don’t mind I’ll go crash for the night.“
”Yeah. You alright, Kee?“ I just couldn’t resist asking him.
I heard a chair scrape softly over the floor as Keiki got up.
”I’ll…uhh…go use the bathroom. It was nice to see you again, Keanu.“ She gave him a hug which he returned. She then went to the bathroom, which made me realize she has no idea where the bathroom is, but I appreciate that she wanted me and Keanu to have some time to talk.
Without saying anything I hand him a glass of apple juice and my grilled cheese sandwich.
”Talk to me, Kee. Who’s wrong?“ I asked him, giving him my full attention.
He sighed and took a sip of apple juice. His silver rings with a black gemstone glinted on his forefinger.
”I can’t stand those people at the frat anymore. I just can’t Ko.“ He said and he almost broke down.
”What did they do this time?“ I asked with a calmness I didn’t really feel. His frat mates are douchebags. But since he was a freshman he had to stay on campus and couldn’t live outside of campus but he’s almost finished with his degree. He’s in third year. He could live outside of campus if he wanted.
”You know who you remind me of right now? That guy from those books everyone on TikTok is raving about.“
”If you say Aaron Warner I’m going to kick you.“ I said with a warning. It’s true we looked similar but one is a fictional character and it felt fucking weird to be compared to a fictional character from a book.
Keanu grinned and took another a bite of grilled cheese.
”I don’t know, the energy shifted at the frat house. I saw Collin do drugs on the counter one morning. Like what the fuck dude? I know your dad is rich and pays for your college tuition but still! So I started looking for off campus living arrangements. Because honestly Ko I don’t want to live with those guys anymore.“ He said and I could tell all this was wearing him down.
I knew his father‘s history with alcohol abuse. His fathers path with sobriety was a hard one. That’s one of the reasons why Keanu doesn’t drink.
”You can stay with me. As long as you want. I’ve said so many times. Pack your stuff man and move in. I’ll even help you move your things. Even if we have to make the trip a couple of times. I’m here for you Kee. You’re not alone and you never were.“ I said and meant it.
He looked down and wiped at his eyes.
”I’ll fill out the paperwork tomorrow.“ He said, finished his grilled sandwich and when he’s about to put it in the sink I stop him.
”I’ve got it. Just go and get some rest.“
”You turned into a real housewife Ko.“ Keanu laughed.
”Bite me Hale.“
Keanu fully laughed and I knew things were getting better, they weren’t perfect but they were getting there.
After Keanu left, I let my head fall onto the granite countertop just taking a long and quiet breath of fresh air.
Keiki
I reentered the kitchen after I heard Keanu headed back upstairs. I found the bathroom after I looked around for a while.
Once I was out of the bathroom I headed towards the kitchen, where I saw Koa who hung his head. I wondered what happened? Trying to figure out how to help, I came to stand next to him, and moved my hand through his dark blond strands mixed in with lighter strands, from the exposure of sunlight.
”I offered him to stay at my place.“ Were his first words into the silence.
”That sounds like a good idea. He shouldn’t be alone if he’s going through a tough time, and besides I like Keanu. He seems like a good guy.“
He smiled at me and his eyes lit up.
”I don’t know about Ko, but I’m wiped out. Do you want to show me where I'll be sleeping?“
He smiled and after putting the dishware into the dishwasher he led me upstairs.
”Just fyi, I didn’t bring any sleep shirts or anything, not really thinking I’d end up at your place tonight…err…this morning.“ I said after entering the room.
”That’s alright I can lend you one of my shirts. You can also have my bed.“ He said and opened a drawer. While he rifled through the drawer until he found what he was looking for.
He handed me a bright orange shirt, with sea coral facts on it.
I gulped. Koa's bed? Where he sleeps every night? Surrounded by his scent lingering in the sheets? I won’t be able to sleep even if I tried.
Koa continued.
”And I‘ll take the couch.“
That made me feel even worse. Koa was tall and that tiny couch won’t fit him, he’ll be uncomfortable all night. That wouldn’t be fair.
”We could share your bed.“
Koa blinked at me.
”Are you sure that would be okay?“
”Yes I am sure. It’s not so bad, your bed is big enough to fit two, we'll be fine.“
Koa looked at me and when he saw I was serious he nodded.
”I’ll load the rest of the dishes into the dishwasher and then we can go to bed.“
”Okay. Need any help?“ I offered but he shook his head.
”Hey Koa?“ I called after he was almost out the door.
”Yeah?“ He looked back and I just went to him and kissed him quickly.
After I broke off the kiss I touched his bottom lip with the pad of my thumb.
”Thanks for tonight. Also for being an amazing friend to Keanu. He seems like he has a lot on his mind, it’s nice to know he’s got a friend like you.“
He left the room with a smile.
Keiki
I lied down and got comfortable when I heard Koa come in. I didn’t want to turn off his bedside lamp, because I don’t like the dark.
His bedroom overlooked the ocean from one side. He pulled down the blinds a bit but left the window wide open. Letting in a soft breeze.
”I hope you’re not a blanket hogger.“ I mumbled, eyes still closed.
”I’m a blanket sharer.“ He chuckled.
I heard fabric rustle and opened my eyes. He stood there in nothing but some turquoise satin boxers.
“Where’s the rest?“
He stared at my blandly.
”The rest of what? The house? I can give you a tour in the morning if you want.“
”I meant where’s the rest of your clothes! Or did they disappear?“ I pointed to his appearance.
”Well to be honest. I don’t wear anything when I sleep, but I put some clothes on for you.“
”Could you put on a shirt?“ I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. All that golden skin kissed by the sun was on full display.
”Why? Look, I get super hot during the night and if I wore a shirt I’d discard it during the night.“
”Fine.“ I muttered.
”Unless my body is distracting you from sleeping?“ He teased.
”Keep dreaming.“
He chuckled and it sounded hoarse. He turned off the light and I instantly moved closer to him, pulling the light covers closer to me. Not wanting to admit I’m scared of the dark.
When I laid my head on the pillow I was surrounded by Koa‘s scent of fresh ocean waves and citrus. Not just because he’s lying next to me, but because he’s sleeping in these sheets every night.
”This is stupid.“ I heard him say.
”What?“ I muttered.
He turned to me and pulled me close.
”It should be okay for us to sleep in the same bed without it being weird. It’s also okay to feel scared of the dark.“
”How did you…?“ I stuttered.
”I’m sometimes scared of the dark too. It’s okay Kei, you're safe with me.“
I smiled and leaned more into him, and instantly felt more comfortable.
”You’re right, it shouldn’t be weird.“ I said being close to him seemingly lulled me to sleep.
He laughed silently.
”Good night my little prince.“
”Good night Wildflower.“
We both fell asleep nestled together.
Keiki
It must have been pretty early in the morning when I woke up, because when I looked around I saw a digital alarm clock saying it’s 7 in the morning and noticed my pillow was moving.
When I blinked my eyes open, I realized I was sprawled all over Koa and he didn’t even care. When I tried to move, an arm held me firmly in place.
”Five more minutes. Please.“
I grinned as a devilish plan took hold. I placed soft kisses on top of his bare chest. Noticing some thin white scars. What the heck happened, was he in an accident? But before I could voice my question Koa peaked one sea green eye opened.
”Not the wake up call I imagined but I’ll take it. What are you up to Kei?“
”How about we just skip classes today? And stay here?“ I said as I placed another soft kiss on his chest.
”So what you’re suggesting is we should just what? Cut classes? Today is lab day. I have to be there.“
”Can’t you do it from home? Come on live a little Ko.“ I said before I lifted my head to steal a kiss.
I could feel him smile against my lips, before he broke it off.
”You’re playing a dangerous game Wildflower.“
I laughed as I got up, but not before he had me pinned beneath him. Making both of us laugh uncontrollably.
As he traced his fingertips across my face and then my lips, I got shivers all over my body. That such a small gesture could mean so much.
”What are you doing to me Kei-Kei?“
”Hopefully naughty things? And good things?“
”Hmm. Looks like we’re studying from home today.“ He said and wanted to get up but not before I stole another kiss.
”I wish we could wake up like this everyday.“ I said wistfully.
I love living with my brother because I get to see my nieces every day, but I’d want to live with Koa. It’s peaceful and a nice place to live. Also the view is nice. Who doesn’t like to wake up next to a hot guy? I sure do!
”You stole the words right out of my mouth, Wildflower. Come on, I’ll make us some breakfast.“
I nodded as Koa got up. I saw a bit of orange peeking out when his boxers rode up higher. Is that a tattoo I see?
”I can feel you staring.“
”Good. I wouldn’t want you to feel neglected.“ I said as I leaned back and enjoyed the show. He took a pillow and threw it at me, but I caught it before it could hit my face.
”Nice try. But let me at least help you make breakfast.“
”Nah it’s all good. You’re my guest so just lay back and relax. I’ll holler once it’s done.“
”Are you sure?“ I asked as I pulled my knees towards me and sat up in bed.
He smiled and nodded and then he went downstairs to make breakfast.
It felt strange to wake up in another bed. Not bad, just different. I couldn’t resist taking a look around his bedroom.
With his dark blue bed sheets, the pictures on the wall of dives he took. All sorts of corals were on his dresser and on his cupboard.
I got up and I knew I shouldn’t but I was too nosy. So I took a look around. As I walked by his cupboard I noticed a wooden frame adorned with seashells. It was family picture. With Koa, his parents and all of his five siblings.
They all smiled and looked so carefree. I liked seeing Koa smile. It looked good on him.
Then I saw a book and when I opened it, lots of drawings of all sorts of marine life but especially corals stared back at me. With all kinds of facts and descriptions lining the pages.
This must be his work for his studies. I carefully laid it back where I found it.
Too restless to stay in his bed any longer, I went into the adjoining bathroom with its white and light green tiles, a shower, and a small cabinet that I shamelessly opened and inspected.
Some black cologne that I opened and sniffed. It smelled like Koa. Mint and something fresh like citrus. Or like an orange blossom? Hard to tell.
Some medicine. Hair products. Condoms. Not going to look at that any closer.
I closed the cabinet and decided it’s been long enough for Koa to finish breakfast.
As I slowly got downstairs I heard two voices. One was Koa's and the other one belonged to his best friend Keanu.
I hugged the walls but they were too far into their conversation to notice me.
