[saskiskies]

Masterlist

I thought I'd try starting something that may one day be a masterlist so here's a link to my WIP on AO3. Please check the tags before reading.

Endless Summer

Series: Across the Stars - (Jake McKenzie/F!mc)

A group of college students won a free holiday to a tropical island… except they weren't chosen randomly.

Insert a bunch of weird timeline stuff, mix in some all round crazy no one saw coming and the resulting decision is one no-one should ever have to make.

Part 1: Dealing with Demons (1/1 single chapter prologue piece that can be read standalone.)

The girl who made that decision was Jayden McKenzie, but this story isn't about her - not yet. This story starts with the guy she left behind.

He's not doing so good.

Part 2: Memories (13/13 chapters. Complete)

It's been almost five years since Jake lost his wife to the crazy crap that went down on La Huerta. He's finally starting to pick up the pieces of his shattered life when he stumbles across an all too familiar face, homeless, and with no memories.

There's no way it's her... Right?

How about from the other side.

How would it feel to wake up one day and not know where you were, or even your full name? What if there was no one you could call because you had no phone and well… there was no-one?

This is a typical day for Jayden. Except maybe its not so typical afterall. After struggling to survive on the streets she's about ready to give up hope, until a stranger who feels more familiar than he should offers the helping hand she so desperately needs

Part 3: La Huerta (WIP 17/30 chapters)

Jay and Jake have (finally) overcome some of the hurdles of her missing memories, but what happens when a certain island refuses to stay a part of their past?

Will she get her memories back? Or is something more sinister at play?

I updated 'Across the Stars' with a summary I created for a fanfiction book club community on here. I never expected anyone to read my stories that wasn't already part of the ES fandom but love that some of you gave it a go 💜

Lost & Found - (Jake McKenzie/F!mc)

(A stand-alone fic that got stuck in my head while writing Memories and wouldn't go away until I wrote it. If you're only going to pick one thing of mine to read maybe don't make it this one)

What if Jay found herself alone on a busy city street instead of on the holiday of a lifetime. She's been of course - she just doesn't know that. No, all she can remember is setting off on a plane and hastily formed (and possibly inaccurate) impressions of the other people on it. She certainly has no idea how or why she's here.

Thankfully her memories leading up to the flight are clear, so she remembers Diego; and her phone seems to be intact. A quick call reaches her equally confused best friend while he's with the rest of the group as they prepare to fly out for the anniversary of her death.

It looks like they won't have to drag Jake to La Huerta afterall. This years reunion should be great right? Except it's really not. How's Jake supposed to react when it's not just that she doesn't just remember their relationship - but seems to actively dislike him?

1/1 chapters. Complete

[glorious-spoon]

an underrated boon of fandom is having a friend who is pedantic about the exact same stuff as you, so you can vent and/or critique in peace

[mysterious-gizem]

[choicesfandomappreciation]

With May coming to a close this week, I'd like to get feedback on how you think the Reblog Event went. But don't worry, if you haven't finished reblogging, you still have another few days (but honestly, missed the event? reblog whenever you can, I can't imagine anyone being upset to get late reblogs!)

Did your work get some more attention?

How many work(s) did you interact with? (ie: 0-5, 5-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20+, everything)

Did you enjoy the works you interacted with? Did you just read books you already read for or did you venture into other books?

Did you interact more on Tumblr or AO3 or equally?

Do you think this event was successful?

Would you like to see another event like this in the future?

What changes would you like to see if there was another event? Did you like the structure of posting all the works at once and having a month to interact? Or would you prefer less works?

Please answer any and all you are comfortable with. You can comment, reblog, send an anon ask, or DM me. Whatever works for you!

Thank you to everyone who participated ❤️

@aria-ashryver

@cadybear420

@cassiusadalhard

@choicesgodfanatic

@eadanga

@hazelestelle

@loreofyore

@marmolady

@peonyblossom

@princess-geek

@rjschoicesstuff

@saskiskies

@somerandomjewelleryonthefloor

@tessa-liam

@twinkleallnight

@whiskeyinlythikos

[saskiskies]

Thankyou @choicesfandomappreciation for organising this and everyone who submitted work and read and reblogged others.

Answers under the cut

Did your work get some more attention?

Yes it did. Much appreciated everyone who took the time to read my entries and left comments, kudos’s and/or reblogs. It meant a lot.

How many work(s) did you interact with?

16 so far

I meant to do more but May has had some real life issues that meant my participation in this event dropped off after the middle of the month (not quite sure where the rest of it went tbh)

I have the links saved and hope to get round to a few more yet - even if it ends up being after the event ends.

Did you enjoy the works you interacted with? Did you just read books you already read for or did you venture into other books?

I mainly read entries for books I’d played through, though not necessarily ones I'd usually read for; but I did try some others and hope to read more. (I might have to read canon for Immortal Desires as that seemed a popular one.)

Did you interact more on Tumblr or AO3 or equally?

Both. (Well more tumblr because there were more tumblr fics, but if the entry was on Ao3 i tried to comment and kudos there, with a reblog on tumblr for those that included both.)

Do you think this event was successful?

Yes.

It's been an enjoyable event. I read things I wouldn't have come across usually and there are definitely some people here whose work I will be reading more of :)

Would you like to see another event like this in the future?

Yes, though I might just read peoples fics rather than sign up next time as I find commenting stressful and often anxiety inducing. (Then I wouldn't feel bad if I only left a short comment.) A lot of my usual Ao3 comments just say something like ‘I really enjoyed reading this’ but I wanted to do better for this event - especially as some people left lovely comments that I'd really like to repay in kind. Unfortunately that turned into a kind of self imposed pressure that did not combine well with currently occurring life stuff.

What changes would you like to see if there was another event? Did you like the structure of posting all the works at once and having a month to interact? Or would you prefer less works?

I liked that the list was posted at the start, then people could prioritise ones they wanted to and work through it at their own pace.

Once again many thanks for organising this event. I really like the idea of supporting each other more.

[saskiskies]

To anyone who these words find their way to. I hope you're having a good day, that your words flow well, and you manage to get done everything you wanted/needed to do today 💜

🖊️📖🎨🎵

[prophetic-writer]

Becoming a writer is great because now you have a hobby that haunts you whenever you don’t have time to do it

[saskiskies]

@endlessly-searching-for-you is this one of those 'im in this picture and I don't like it' moments? 🤣🤣

Be a writer - have eternal homework looming... None of us are right in the head 🤣

[saskiskies]

Awake at silly o clock working on my next chapter even though I really should be sleeping.

🖊️📖☕

I am going to regret this tomorrow 😂

[tessa-liam]

Turning The Page

Chapter –1 - Memories

The Royal Romance, Alternate Universe

Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son.

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks

All characters belong to Pixelberry

Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression

Rating: M🔞Warnings – crude language, not Beta’d - please excuse all errors.

Words: 1951

Turning the Page

Memories - Chapter 1

Chapter Summary: While remembering bittersweet memories of her time in Cordonia, Riley comes to the realization that there are still unanswered questions to pursue from the night of the Coronation Ball.

Music Inspiration: Far Side of the World, Holden Miller, The Way We Were, Lucy Thomas

A/N: My submission for @choicesflashfics, Week #41, Prompt #1, “You make me feel like I’m worth it.”

A/N2: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.

“...I can’t do this anymore.” Riley answered softly.

Daniel’s heart broke in two as he looked at his dear friend. Her tear-stained cheeks and red-rimmed eyes told him everything that he needed to know.

“It’s okay, Riley,” Daniel said. “It’s not your fault. You were put in a difficult position.”

Her bottom lip trembling; those words spoken, was all it took for her to break down.

…. Remembering the day she danced with her prince at the Coronation Ball, and he said,

‘I hope you never have cause to regret coming here.’

‘Why would you say that?’

‘Well, so much has happened, and...’

As the song winds down, Prince Liam’s hands linger on her waist, his eyes searching hers.

‘I need to talk to you.’

‘Is something wrong?’

***

Wrapping his arm around her shoulders Daniel pulled her close to his chest, breaking the memory.

“I should have known that I was in way over my head. The signs were all there.” Riley spoke between sobs.

“This situation is so fucked up. Falling in love with a man from across the ocean, whose duty to his country dictates his future. Whose life is not his own. His world is so foreign to you. A world unavailable to....”

Riley took a deep breath and met his gaze.

“Stop. Just stop. ...Please.”

“Mommy?” “Dan Dan?” A little voice called out.

Daniel looked over at Riley’s son, walking with his pail towards the sandcastle that they had all made together.

“Hey, buddy, what do you have in your pail?”

“Fo howse,” he pointed to the sandcastle.

“One sec, Ri. I will be right back.” Daniel kissed Riley’s forehead quickly and walked towards the little boy.

Riley closed her eyes, continuing to remember the words Liam spoke to her the night they visited the Statue of Liberty.

‘...but I’ve always known that my role would require me to give up much of what I desire.’

‘You’re the prince. Can't you do what you want, at least some of the time?’

‘If only. My whole life I’ve prepared myself to do what’s best for Cordonia.’

Looking at her son. Looking at Liam’s son.

Riley had an epiphany.

***

The royal council meeting lasted well into the evening. It was almost 9:30 pm when the last council member left the boardroom at the palace. Liam stood up from his chair and started to walk down the long hallway to his study. His plans for the rest of the evening included shooting hoops with Drake and a stop at the beer garden later to wind down. Pouring himself a finger of Scotch he sat down at his desk and reclined his chair. Pulling out his phone, he checked for any missed messages or calls, but nothing of interest was received. The one and only person he wanted to desperately hear from still eluded him.

Three years ago.

The love of his life.

Walked away from him.

Three years of being alone.

Even though he constantly had people around him; Regina, Leo, his guards, nobles, his friends. But never her.

 He would never blame her for walking away. The situation was. Is. So very unfair to her. So undeserved.

And if he was being honest with himself. Very unfair to him. His entire life, he was groomed to serve the Cordonian people and the monarchy. To fulfill ‘his duty’ to Cordonia, without question.

When Riley captured his heart that fateful night in New York, he felt the walls of duty surrounding him start to crumble.

When Riley followed him to the masquerade ball to join the social season, his world shifted in its axis. Thinking that he would never see Riley again, he was given the best surprise. Just to think that she travelled all the way from New York City to be with him.

‘I know we have something special. I want to see what it can be.’

And now, after all the years, his guilt still consumed him.

How he wished he could find out how she was. To make sure she's OK. Hopefully. She moved on with her life. Tears welled in his eyes. He missed Riley. Every day he thought about her and wondered where she was. He missed her voice. He missed her smile.

He remembered everything, and could forget, nothing.

Wanting to relax he stretched his legs and reclined his chair more. His eyes drifted shut and he was almost asleep when he heard a knock on the door.

“Come.” Liam called out in response.

Opening his eyes, he saw Madeleine scowling down at him.

Liam grinned at the thought. It had to be her. No one else would have been able to make such an impression on his guards, to let her in without his permission.

“You know, Madeleine, I think I have seen enough of you for this evening. Please go away and do whatever you do in the evening.”

Liam was well aware that Madeleine kept her own Cordonian arrangement with a dignitary from Morocco. He was in the capital this evening on business, planning to rendezvous with her tonight.

“You know Liam, I am not a child. I understand that you are in a position of authority, and I know that you cannot spend all your time with me.”

“I do need you to come to my chambers and spend the evening with me.” She stood waiting for his answer as Liam felt her gaze burning through him.

At least once a month, Madeleine tried to persuade Liam to sleep with her, but to no avail.

Tonight, was no exception.

“You have not answered my question. Are you coming to my chambers or not?”

“Madeleine, it is a generous offer, but there is no way in hell I want to spend my evening with you. I have plans. Not that it is any of your business. I am spending time with friends tonight.”

“Do you realize, Liam, we have been married for almost four years now and yet no heir. How long will this last? Our people are waiting for news!”

“Isn’t Eduardo waiting for you, Madeleine?” Liam scoffed.

“You will not even touch me. For as long as I see fit, at the very least he pays attention to me. How long will you wait for Riley to magically reappear? She left you Liam. She left you high and dry. She could not handle it. Stop embarrassing yourself, Liam. This country wants an heir. It is our duty to supply one.”

There was a short knock on the door and Drake popped his head through the doorway.

“Li, my apologies for interrupting.” Drake gave Liam a ‘knowing look’.

“Queen Madeleine.”

 Liam stood up from his desk, glowering at Madeleine and turned towards his bar cart. Picking up a bottle of Macallen, “Drake, my man, come have a drink with me. This one is leaving.”

Madeleine ‘glared daggers’ at Liam as she watched him pour whiskey into two lowball glasses, Huffing, she turned around and walked out of his study, not acknowledging Drake. Drake raised an eyebrow, “was I interrupting something important?”

“Hell, no.” Liam shot back his drink and slammed the glass onto his desk.

“Let's play some ball.”

***

“I need to ask a favor of you, Daniel.” Riley called out.

“Anything, Ri, of course,” Daniel replied.

Standing up from the sand he reached down and scooped up Riley's son into his arms. Walking towards her, Riley smiled as she held out her arms.

 “Li Li, come to mommy, sweetheart.”

That is all it took for the giggles to start. William squealed and successfully wrangled out of Daniel’s grasp to get to his mom.

Shaking his head, “this kid will kick my butt one day!”

“What's up, Riley?”

Taking a deep breath, “well, remember that certain table that you asked me to serve the night before I left for Cordonia?” Riley sheepishly looked at her friend.

“How could I forget?” Daniel raised his eyebrow in question.

“Yes, well....”

Riley looked down, not able to meet his eyes.

 “Remember, there were four men. Liam, of course, was one. Tariq, as well, was there.”

“Oh yes and I remember there were two others with them.”

 “Yes, that’s right, Drake and Maxwell. I need you to contact Maxwell.”

“OK, Riley. Sure, that sounds easy enough. I remember that I still owe you a favor for looking after that table that night for me.”

Riley smirked at the look of horror that suddenly fell on his face for saying that aloud.

“Anything Riley.... What is his address?”

“Actually, I need you to call him.”

“OK, call him. ...and what do you want me to say?”

“I need you to ask him to come here. to New York City.”

 “Riley. Are you sure that's a good idea? Won't he tell Liam your whereabouts? Aren't you concerned?”

“Daniel, I am going to ask Maxwell, as my friend. To help me get some answers. But first I need to talk to Maxwell and explain everything to him in person. He needs to come here alone. And I need you to sell that reason to him to come alone, and not to bring anyone with him. Could you do that for me?"

Daniel paused. Looking at his dear friend. “Yes,” he said begrudgingly.

“I sure hope you know what you're doing.”

“So do I, Daniel. So, do I.”

“For you and this little one, I want nothing but happiness from now on. You deserve the world.”

“Thank you, Daniel...for everything.

“You make me feel like I’m worth it.”

***

...if we had the chance to do it all again tell me, would we, could we?

♥️♥️Thank you for reading♥️♥️

 📌@ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @jared2612 @irisk12 @thesvnsins @emersyn-in-cordonia @mainstreetreader @belencha77 @walkerdrakewalker @iluaaa @mysticalfangirl @choicesflashfics @choicesficwriterscreations

[saskiskies]

Easy to read and intriguing first chapter. I'll definitely be reading more of this.

I can't believe she's left it so long to get in touch. Better late than never though - right? That's going to be one heck of a call/visit.

I love that Liam is ignoring Madeline (though that possibly makes me a little mean 🤣)

[toothsheeran]

[saskiskies]

Says it all really ❤️

[theartoflovingthomashunt]

Inevitable

Huge thank you to the incredible @oh-so-youre-a-nerd / @ascindio for this incredible piece! I am in complete and utter awe! It is simply perfection and exactly how I pictured it!

Pairing: Thomas Hunt x Alex (F!MC) Book: HWU/RCD — Golden Age Hollywood AU Word Count: ~ 1,350 Synopsis: Hollywood newcomer Alexandra Spencer is working on her first picture at a major studio. Veteran Thomas Hunt is going through the motions. Despite being from different studios, their paths continue to cross. Is it coincidence or something more? A one-shot AU told through a series of vignettes.

Read on AO3

[All Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer] [Red Carpet Diaries] [Hollywood U]

The flash of the cameras danced around her, each lens begging for her attention. Camera shutters echoed in her ear. This was the moment she'd dreamed of—imagined a thousand and one times. She tilted her chin and turned her shoulder.

Everything was perfect.

It should have been enough.

It wasn't.

Her practiced smile didn't quite reach her eyes. For a moment, she almost turned, as if someone had called—though no one had. They'd never noticed. The studio had been sure she was media-ready for today. Nothing would challenge her their big moment.

Not even him.

i. chance

Her heart fluttered as her fingers delicately traced the golden Art Deco door handle. She was finally here. Inhaling deeply, she lifted her head, straightening her shoulders, before opening the studio door.

The space was dark except for a few soft stage lights, the set not yet reset for the day. She lingered near the door, her gaze tracing over the space. If these walls could talk. She inched closer, a typewritten script held in her arms.

He walked swiftly across the stage. He paused only long enough to retrieve his blazer from the director's chair, then continued on.

The sound of footsteps pulled her attention. She caught only the silhouette of a man retreating. The echo of his step faded, leaving the space emptier than it had been before.

ii. thread

Muffled voices seeped through the wood-paneled walls as he navigated the narrow hallway. He passed Studio A on the way to the next. He’d always thought interviews were little more than promotion—advertisements for the latest picture, disguised as a conversation.

The on-air light was dim. He reached for the silver door handle. A soft laugh sounded from the other side, light and honest. He opened it slowly. A brunette woman met him. He stepped aside, holding it open for her.

"Thank you."

She stepped past him.

He let the door close behind her.

He almost looked back.

iii. glance

Her fingers curled around the white porcelain cup. The familiar notes of the freshly brewed coffee brought a smile to her lips. She listened to the quiet hum of the cafe. Her days had been filled with rehearsals and filming. Unscripted moments had become rare.

Her gaze lifted.

He sat at a table opposite hers. His pen scratched across the surface of the pages in front of him.

He looked up.

For a moment, their eyes met. She smiled over the rim of her cup, taking another sip before looking away. Her gaze turned out the window, watching those walking by. His reflection lingered faintly in the glass as he returned to his work.

iv. interruption

He moved with purpose through the lot. A call for quiet from a nearby set drew his attention. He turned toward the set. A familiar face caught his eye. She moved gracefully across the scene. Her voice was light, touched with optimism.

"Cut."

Her gaze met his as she turned away from the production.

Recognition flashed in her eyes. A slow smile spread on her lips.

He took a step forward.

"Alexandra."

A production assistant guided her back to her mark.

He lingered a moment longer before continuing on his way.

Alexandra.

v. choice

The scent of stale tobacco mixed with the sharp coffee aroma as she entered the cafe. She glanced around the space, making her way to an empty table. She took a seat and opened a small black appointment book, reading through the notes for the day.

She turned her attention out the window. A familiar reflection caught her eye, drawing her gaze to the table across from her.

He sat still, a book perched in his hands. His face gave little away, his expression unreadable.

She almost turned back to the busy street.

But she didn't.

Not today.

"Hello," she greeted.

His gaze lifted from the page, over the top of the book.

His eyes met hers.

vi. pull

"Alexandra, is it?" He closed the book and set it on the table.

"Should I be impressed Thomas Hunt knows my name?"

His eyes narrowed, the corner of his lip lifting slightly. "Many would be."

"You'll find I'm not," she challenged.

He studied her for a moment. She was more direct than he anticipated, her smile still unguarded. That was a rarity. "Indeed."

"My apologies if that disappoints."

The book remained closed beneath his hand. His attention no longer on it, his gaze fixed on her. "I'm not certain you could disappoint."

vii. bond

It had become effortless, spending time like this. The placid lake stretched out before them. Strands of golden sun kissed the water, scattering like diamonds across the surface.

Her fingers brushed over the soft fabric of the picnic blanket. The wind shifted, lifting a strand of her hair. He reached up, brushing it back.

"I like it here," she decided.

"It's quiet," he agreed.

"It's easier out here." Her gaze fell to the sandy shore.

His hand settled over hers.

"It's easier with you," she added.

"I've found the same."

“Careful, Thomas... You almost sound agreeable.”

The smile that tugged at his lips reached his eyes. His gaze drifted back over the lake.

viii. dream

The ballroom glowed beneath the ornate chandeliers. Voices around them blurred into the music.

She rested her head on his shoulder, his hand warm against her lower back. Her silk dress shifted with each gentle movement as they swayed slowly together. Nothing beyond them seemed to exist. When she lifted her head, her eyes met his. The smile that greeted her was unlike any the public ever saw. It was entirely hers.

"Alex." His voice was tender.

"I know."

As the song quieted, neither of them moved. He drew her closer, the distance between them fading. His lips found hers in a soft, almost fragile kiss.

The final notes faded into applause, but she didn't move.

Neither of them did.

ix. interference

"Miss Spencer." The steady voice stopped her before she could go further. "A word, if you please."

She drew in a deep breath, her body reluctant to follow. "Of course."

"Have a seat." The studio executive gestured toward an emerald green leather chair.

"You're still new to all of this, Miss Spencer, so I'll be quite clear. There are expectations that come with representing the studio. The image you present is not solely yours—it belongs to us. Personal associations are not without there consequences. If and when changes are required, they will be made in accordance with the studio's interests. I trust you understand."

"But—" Her mouth opened, though the expression that met her across the desk gave her pause. Her hands tightened. "I understand."

"I trust you'll attend the premiere of your upcoming picture in a manner consistent with these expectations."

She rose to her feet, smoothing the fabric of her dress before turning away.

x. destiny

Her smile never wavered. Each step down the red carpet had been choreographed for her. Who to talk with, who to pose for, when to hesitate, when to move on. It was another scene for her to play, far from the empowerment she thought it would bring. She was their Alexandra. She hadn't thought she'd miss being Alex.

With careful precision, she executed every look they wanted. The bright lights of the cameras started to dim as she neared the theater.

"Thank you!" She waved, posing once more for a final display.

The doors opened, welcoming her into the screening of her picture. She ascended the steps of the theater, slipping her gloves off. She'd been offered a private box. The first thing that had gone right. At least there, she would be free from the performance.

She paused outside of it. Her fingers caressed the green velvet curtains separating her space from the hall. Quietly, she slipped in, disappearing from the world outside.

She stilled, her eyes not trusting what they saw.

It was him.

Of course, it was him.

"How?"

"Does it matter?"

He stood to meet her, guiding her down into the seat beside him. He drew her in, and this time, he kissed her without hesitation. Nothing could pull them apart.

A/N: Initially I was going to do a kismet mini series on this but readership is so low in the fandom that I didn't think anyone would follow that long. So I compromised and tried to write 100 word drabbles for each "chapter" and make a mosiac one-shot instead.

If you read this, I hope you enjoyed it! It was a lot of fun to write. It's very different than my normal fluffy writing style. It's much more controlled and restrained. It was very hard especially when the finally got together not to revert back lol

Thank you again for reading!

[saskiskies]

I commented and kudos'd this on Ao3 but realised I hadn't actually reblogged - so here you go :)

[endlessly-searching-for-you]

Let them eat cake (not you, Sean)

a bite-sized spite-fueled ficlet in which Sean has a birthday, but doesn't have a cake. somebody (absolutely not me) stole it. oh no. anyway. 😈

The cake had twelve slices. Sean insisted on cutting it himself. Twelve people, twelve slices, one for everyone, and not a crumb for himself until everyone else had theirs first. He’d announced it with a cheerful nobility that made Zahra roll her eyes so hard she had to have seen the back of her head and Taylor snort into her drink and quickly ask for a refill to cover it.

But still, a plan was a plan. Everyone had to have a slice before he does.

That his slice was the largest was just the birthday boy’s privilege. Nobody could judge him for that.

Now that all eleven of his friends had their plate, Sean was about to finally grab his and dig in, but Raj and Quinn called him over from where they were dissecting theirs like a pair of surgeons.

“Sean, settle this for us,” Quinn said cheerfully. “What’s the flavor? We can’t agree on it.”

Zahra took one bite and winced, then produced a flask she had somewhere on her person and poured amber liquid generously over the slice.

“Don’t look at me like that,” she warned. “It’s terribly dry.”

Sean, who was absolutely about to look at her like that, quickly assessed his chances and turned his head away from her, only to catch a glimpse of Jake and Craig disappearing through the garden door with a bottle of something dark and expensive. His fault for not locking the cupboards.

The flavor debate remained unsolved. Sean tried to excuse himself and get his own sample for better input, but first he got caught in Michelle’s photo-op, then Taylor insisted on singing a ‘happy birthday’ that was just as enthusiastic as it was off-key, then there were playlist issues and one more round of birthday wishes, and he only remembered about the uneaten cake when his stomach started to grumble.

“Who’s that?” Diego gestured at someone behind Sean’s back just as he was on his way to the dessert table.

“Who?” he followed his gaze to see a short lady with a mop and a very serious case of stink eye. “Oh, her? She cleans here. Though, to be honest, most of the time I feel like she runs this place.”

“I’d be careful if I were you. She looks like she wants to kill you.”

Sean shrugged. “Maybe that’s just her face. Don’t be so judgy.”

From the corner of his eye, he caught Jake and Craig coming back from the garden, bottle-less now, but suspiciously cheerful. Looking a bit embarrassed, they gave him a lazy salute. Sean just smiled in response. It looked like all his guests had fun alright, and wasn’t that the point of hosting a birthday party? Well, just after the cake, of course. He turned to the table and barely suppressed a disappointed groan.

His cake was gone.

---

The missing cake slice was in the kitchen. Technically. It was even still on a plate, and not scraped to the bin like he feared.

The cleaning lady, who had, for reasons he could never quite explain, been giving him a side eye since the moment she saw him, sat perched on his counter and held the cake-filled plate in one hand. In the other, she had a tiny fork, already heading towards the cake. She looked him in the eye and did not flinch.

“It’s my birthday cake,” he whined. “I was saving it—”

Too late.

Her fork dropped onto the slice like a little guillotine and chopped off a generous bite. Without breaking eye contact, the cleaning lady put it in her mouth and chewed slowly.

“You and your American cakes. Terrible,” she scoffed in her heavy accent, but still took another bite before shrugging. “Happy birthday. I guess.”

He sighed and turned on his heel, walking back to his party.

Happy birthday, indeed.

[saskiskies]

Oooohhhhh I am sat giggling to myself reading this. The Sean hate is so real (and I feel bad that I've contributed to some of it 🤣)

I almost want to say poor Sean but... 🤣

[saskiskies]

WIP Wednesday

Okay, so I've been gently bullied into joining in with this - so here goes 🤣🤣

WIP fic Across the Stars. Endless Summer WIP canon continuation centering on Jake and Jayden (female mc)

Here's a bit from Mikes POV

*

They came up with the idea for the first anniversary while working to clear his and Jake's names. Mike was more than a little surprised they included him in their efforts - he had been fighting against them for some of their time on the island after all. But apparently they cared enough for Grandpa that including him went without saying. And it certainly didn't hurt to have a second pilot kicking about - especially when their previous one really wasn't in any fit state to be responsible for himself - let alone others. 

Mike flew them out without question that year. 

He didn't expect to be invited to the second one as he'd recently kicked Jake out, severing his link to the group - or so he thought. But he supposed they still needed a pilot - and so he spent another brief holiday with the remainder of the ex-catalysts. 

By the third anniversary Jake was improving and was even taking a pilots refresher course. Knowing his flying abilities were no longer required, Mike had been prepared to say goodbye to the mad bunch. Obviously he'd keep in touch with Jake now they'd cleared the air, but his time with the rest of them was coming to an end.

He hadn't expected the call from Sean for the fourth one. But it appeared that somewhere along the way he'd become one of the group.

This year was different though, and not just because it was early. She was back. Somehow. The girl whose death they'd spent the last couple of years meeting up for. The one who'd messed up Jake's life, saved them all and brought him back to life on the same day... was somehow back in their lives. 

Mike slipped quietly into the lodge, knowing he wasn't expected for another couple of hours. He put his case on the floor and glanced round the living room, surprised to see Quinn curled up on the couch with a book. 

Her eyes lit up as she lifted herself gracefully from the couch, slipping her arms around him and pulling him into a gentle hug. He returned it, wondering - as he did every time he saw her - how this kind-hearted, caring woman had ever controlled the power of the Island's heart. 

"Hey Mike. Nice flight?" 

"Hey Red. Yeah clear skies all the way. Where is everyone?" 

"Either on the roof or out back. 

He paused. "And her?" 

No need to ask who he meant. "Jay was out back with Jake, Craig, Sean and Raj when I last looked. I think Craig's trying to talk them into a frisbee match. You want me to head out with you?"

He kissed the top of her head lightly. "Nah Red. Get back to your book. I'll grab a drink and head out."

Mike leaned against the kitchen door frame, beer in hand as he watched the five of them play; trying to get a feel for their blond guest of honour. On one hand she was the reason he was alive and it was pretty hard to begrudge that, on the other hand he'd seen the state she left Jake in and that was pretty hard to forgive. Jake was his friend, and so far she wasn't. 

A smile crossed his face as he watched Jake spin her in the air and plant a kiss on her forehead after Sean missed his shot and they scored again. It was damned good to see Grandpa back fully in the land of the living but he couldn't help worrying what would happen if she left again. None of them were sure Jake would pull through a second time. Watching them together Mike was pretty certain he wouldn't. 

The frisbee landed at his feet, dragging him from his thoughts. 

[marmolady]

*tries to do a WIP Wednesday post but realises upon scrolling through that in-progress chapter of Broken Chains has no non-gloomy bits*

☹️

*gazes enviously at folks writing fluffy stuff*

You know, maybe I’m due a Fluff Break.

[endlessly-searching-for-you]

[saskiskies]

I can empathise. 🫂 I'm convinced there are plenty of fluffy bits scattered amongst my fic, but I do sometimes wonder if they're a little too scattered. (Especially when a certain someone circles some of my tags and asks where they are 🤣🤣)

I've never attempted a WIP wednesday though. Does that mean I should try find something nice to tempt you guys with?

But... but... Spoilers 🤣

[aria-ashryver]

Fae Changelings Edit Series (3 of 3) - Cas/Gabe

❄WINTER❄

🌸SPRING🌸

And lastly, Changeling Cas and Gabe and their Winter and Spring counterparts! You can find their Summer and Autumn aspects here, and Luca's Daylight/Moonlight Fae edit here!

Participating in Choices Community Events International Fairy Day | Prompt - Nature

tagging: @choicescommunityevents @ladylamrian

Many thanks to @farizrz for the assets!

[saskiskies]

I haven't read Immortal Desires but these are really pretty even without the story context ❤️

[marmolady]

Happy Mother's Day!

[saskiskies]

Pretty ❤️

Hope you had a good day :)

[storyofmychoices]

Our Greatest Adventure

This is the final part in The Hidden Path mini series. I started planning this moment 4 years ago. I've had this art for over 3 years. I've drafted at least a dozen versions of this and it never felt right, because I realized recently, it was never just about this moment, it was about all that came before and all that will come next. Having the mini series to explore that elevates this moment even more for me. I really hope you enjoy this art and the fic. Thank you for supporting these two for the past 6 years. I am eternally grateful.

Art by ArtbyAinna (instagram)

Read on AO3

Pairings: Mal Volari x Daenarya with Rayden (OC), Lydo (OC) Book: Blades of Light & Shadow (Book 1 AU) Word Count: < 700 Rating/Warnings: General, no warnings

Synopsis: The map that sent them on their latest adventure has brought them home. This is part two of "The Hidden Path" mini series.

Background: This is the final chapter in The Hidden Path series. It also comes after previous attempts at Mal proposing: A Proposal (of sorts) and To Have and To Lose.

Her pulse quickened as she lifted the key, questions racing through her mind. She carefully traced the dark metal of the lock, the corner of her lip tugging upward at the familiar design.

For a moment, all she could think about was her family—her boys... and Mal.

Her hand shook as she slid the key in place, twisting it until she heard a faint click. She chewed her lower lip, not sure what waited on the other side. The wooden gate eased forward with a comforting soft squeak.

She stepped forward, her breath catching.

Red rose petals were scattered delicately at her feet. Candlelight flickered on either side of her, inviting her to follow their light. She took a slow step forward, the petals shifting softly beneath her feet.

The yard was quiet except for the giggles and excited squeals from the boys trailing just behind her.

"Mal." His name was a wordless whisper on her lips as she approached a floral arch illuminated with lanterns at the center of the space.

He held his hand out, guiding her forward. His other hand rested on her swollen stomach. "I love you both." His voice was quiet, just for her. "I'm sorry things fell apart today."

Rayden and Lydo moved behind him, checking their mark to make sure everything was perfect.

Mal leaned forward, brushing a lingering kiss on her forehead before lowering to one knee in front of her.

"Daenarya—" his voice cracked as he said her name. He opened his mouth, but his words failed. He shook his head. "I practiced this so many times, but with you, I lose what I thought I knew."

"There hasn't been a moment since I met you that I've wanted to be anywhere other than by your side," he continued. "When you paused this morning outside of the city, talking about home, I had to fight against myself to propose on the spot. That moment may have been beautiful, but it wasn't our home. When the rain fell, and you were once again in my arms, I was reminded how far we'd come since that first dance and how I never want that dance to end. I thought about asking you then, but it wasn't where I wanted to grow old together. But then—" his gaze fell, his head shaking. "—Then I hurt you... I never meant to make you feel like I didn't trust you. It took everything in me not to tell you. To know I hurt you today—Daenarya." Tears filled his eyes, slipping down his face. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay," she mouthed, her eyes glistening. She offered a gentle nod. "It's okay."

"If I had, I could have spared you so much pain. I'm sorry... but it's not just about us anymore. It's about our children and the home we share. It's not just about where we are now, but where we've been and where we're going. There is no greater treasure in this world or the next that compares with you.

Daenarya, will you marry me?"

Her breath hitched at the question hanging between them, her hands clasping over her mouth. A soft laugh broke through her tears. "Mal..." Her gaze flickered between him and the boys bouncing excitedly behind him. Her heart swelled. She nodded before she could answer. "Yes!" Her voice trembled, but her smile never faltered. "Of course, yes! I'll marry you!"

Mal slipped the golden ring onto her finger, his hands steady and sure.

He rose swiftly, pulling her into a kiss, his arms wrapping around her as he held her close, never wanting to let her go.

The boys' cheer broke their embrace. Their small hands tugged at them, waiting for their time to celebrate. The newly engaged couple fell to their knees, gathering their boys into their arms. Their shared laughter broke through the last of the tears as they held their family close.

This was just the beginning of their greatest adventure. 

Thank you again for reading! I hope you enjoyed this and hope that it feels earned and worthy of all they've been through.

[saskiskies]

Hey, first I want to admit I haven't actually read this as it's the final piece in the series and I don't want to spoil the ending. Instead I read your first chapter and intend reading more, but it's unlikely I'll catch up to this chapter during the event. I didn't want this to miss out on a reblog simply because I want to read in order so here you are :)

[hazelestelle]

who'd have known

Fandom: Open Heart (probably somewhere in Book 3) Pairing: Tobias/MC (Julia Zhang) Word Count: 1515 Summary: Julia needs a date for a wedding, on Valentine's Day no less. Tobias is happy to help.

For @choicesholidays' Valentine's event. I can never resist a fake dating prompt.

Read on AO3

After work drinks weren’t an uncommon occurrence, especially after a hard shift, and it wasn’t uncommon to see Julia and her friends occupy the table in the corner either, laughing and chatting loudly.

Today though, Julia had been frowning at her phone, and then excused herself, and Tobias was concerned.

None of her friends seemed to have noticed that she wasn’t back yet, but Tobias couldn’t help but think about her, his eyes drawn to her whenever they were in the same room. She was brilliant and smart and funny and beautiful and a thousand other things that made it impossible to look away. He had long accepted his infatuation, even if he knew it was unlikely that anything would ever come off it. They weren’t hostile anymore, but he wouldn’t call them friends either.

Still, he reasoned, as a colleague, it would be fine to go ask if she was okay, although it was just as likely she would tell him to piss off than what was going on.

So he went outside where he found her sitting on one of the pub’s benches, staring at the sky, a frown still on her face.

Tobias sat down next to her, close but not so close that they would be touching.

“Are you okay?”

Julia didn’t say anything for a moment, and Tobias almost got ready to leave her alone, but then she sighed.

“An… acquaintances is getting married. On Valentine’s Day. And I’m invited.”

She sounded annoyed and a little disgusted, and Tobias frowned.

Sure, it was a little short notice, and maybe, if someone asked him, a bit tacky to get married on Valentine’s Day, but he didn’t see why it would warrant such a reaction.

“Okay?”, he prompted, and Julia sighed again.

“I know her from school, and she doesn’t actually like me. Which is mutual”, she added, as if that hadn’t been clear. “She’s always trying to show me up, and I just know she only invited me to show how oh-so-romantic her life is or some other nonsense.”

“That does sound stupid”, Tobias agreed, and Julia snorted, which he counted as a win. If nothing else, at least he had cheered her up a little.

“Don’t go then”, he proposed, and Julia rolled her eyes.

“Wish that I could. But she’ll see that as an admission that her life is better or something.”

“That’s even more stupid”, Tobias couldn’t help but say. “You’re amazing, and someone isn’t ‘better’ because they’re getting married on Valentine’s Day.” He put as much disdain into his voice as he could, which was a lot, and Julia smiled.

“Thanks. I know. I still have to go though. But I can’t go alone.”

“Ah.” Of course that crazy person Tobias didn’t even know seemed like she would see that as a weakness too, or something equally stupid. “Take someone then?”

“Where am I gonna find a date for Valentine’s Day this quickly?”

Tobias was sure that there were lots of people who wanted to date her, but he wasn’t going to say that.

“I’ll go with you.”

“What?” Julia turned to him, clearly surprised, and Tobias shrugged, trying to look casual and not like his heart was beating out of his chest.

“I have nothing better to do, and I’ll get free food. And I admit, I’m interested in seeing what kind of person this acquaintance of yours is.”

“Hmm.” Julia grinned, her eyes gleaming. “So does that mean you want to date me, Dr. Carrick?”

Tobias grinned back, leaning in a little, delighted when Julia didn’t pull back. Of course dating her was exactly what he wanted, but he still made it sound like as much as a joke as he could when he replied “You wish, Dr. Zhang.”

And despite knowing that she didn’t mean it, her answering cheeky “Maybe” and the accompanying wink made his heart skip a beat.

Valentine’s Day came quickly, and Tobias went to pick Julia up. He was wearing his best suit, having taken extra effort to look good. Even if it was just a fake date, he wanted to look good for her.

When Julia opened the door, the view took his breath away. She was wearing a dark blue strapless gown that accentuated her figure just right, her long dark hair was swept over one bare shoulder, and her wine-red lipstick drew attention to her full lips.

Tobias swallowed drily. “Wow.” He had to clear his throat to get more words out. “You look amazing.”

Julia blushed a little. “Thank you.”

Then she grinned, looking him up and down. “You’re not too bad yourself.”

Tobias laughed. “An almost compliment from you? I’ll take it.”

The wedding was as extravagant as he had expected, and the reception was held in a big ballroom, with tables to both sides and a huge dancefloor in the middle.

They were seated with no one Julia knew, which according to her was a jab from the bride, but she actually didn’t mind, saying that she didn’t like any of the other people from her school who had been invited anyway, and Tobias didn’t care either way.

The food had been good, and now he was content to people watch and listen to Julia’s stories about them.

His arm was draped casually over the back of her chair and she was leaning into him, and Tobias was enjoying this more than he probably should.

Julia was just pointing out a particularly bad dancer, when the bride appeared in front of them. Tobias had been wondering if that would happen or if she would just ignore them, and apparently now was the time.

“Julia”, she greeted, not even looking at Tobias, and Julia forced a smile.

“Astrid. Congratulations.”

Astrid smiled sweetly. “Thank you! Isn’t everything sooo romantic?” She sighed dreamily, and Tobias had to stop himself from rolling his eyes.

“Not that you would know about romance”, she added then, sounding condescending. “It’s always just work with you, isn’t it?”

“Well, not only is she brilliant at her job”, Tobias cut in before Julia could say anything, irritated that this stupid woman would treat her like that. “She also has a very satisfying romantic life.”

He said it with just the right amount of innuendo to leave no doubt what he was talking about, leaning forward a little, moving his hand from the back of the chair to Julia’s shoulder, his thumb brushing her collarbone and feeling her shudder at that.

She smiled brightly, turning to him. “Exactly. I’ve certainly never had any complaints.”

The way she was looking at him, her eyes dark and her lips slightly parted, almost made Tobias forget that this was all just an act.

He only just stopped himself from leaning in and kissing her, instead brushing a kiss over her cheek, risky enough, but not as bad as a real kiss.

Then he turned back to Astrid, a fake smile on his lips. “Anything else we can help you with?”

“Tch. Forget it.” She turned around, stomping back over to her husband, looking like a petulant child, and Tobias couldn’t help but laugh.

Julia laughed with him. “Thanks! That was great.”

“Anytime.” And he meant that. If he could make Julia happy, anything was worth it.

“Do you want to dance?”, she asked then, and he agreed.

It was a slow song, appropriate for a wedding, and he pulled her close, his hands on her waist. She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned her head against his chest, and he let his head rest on hers, trying not to dwell on the fact that she fit perfectly in his arms. But there on the dancefloor, swaying to the music, he let himself forget for just one moment that this was just pretend and just enjoyed holding her. Reality would be bad enough tomorrow, he reasoned, so he could indulge just this once.

Later, when Julia had deemed it appropriate to leave without making Astrid think they were going too early or slighting her or whatever stupid thing she would come up with, they were back at Julia’s door.

She smiled up at him. “This was surprisingly fun.”

“The food was good. The company was okay, I guess.” Tobias shrugged, fighting a grin, and Julia rolled her eyes.

“Sure. But seriously, thank you.”

“Anytime”, he couldn’t help but reply.

“Yeah?” Julia stepped a little closer. “So you’re saying you’d date me anytime?”

Maybe he shouldn’t do this, maybe it would ruin their work relationship and make things awkward, but with the way she was looking at him, curious and hopeful, he couldn’t help but be honest. “Yes.”

“Oh.” She blinked, then the most brilliant smile broke out on her face. “In that case…” She came even closer, placing her hands on his hips and pulling herself up on her tiptoes. “Can I get a goodnight kiss?”

Smiling back, he leaned down and cupped her cheeks.

“Always”, he murmured against her lips, before finally kissing her like he had been dreaming of for so long.

[saskiskies]

Reading as part of the Choices Fandom Reblog Event.

As I commented on your other one I wouldn't usually consider Tobias for a romance, but both these fics could make me reconsider.

Her acquaintance can take a running jump, but good for Tobias grasping the oppertunity. And good for both of them for not letting oppertunity pass. ❤️