#and Alicent arriving and changing the vibes

[stannussy]

Y know what I'm mad abt? Omitting Rhaenyra's ladies in waiting. It could've been an incredible way to also show the disconnect of Rhaenyra and Alicent's relationship with all of them watching once their friend Alicent become their queen which of course changes the dynamic alienating Alicent further

#hotd #house of the dragon #also I just love the idea of the episode with the hunting trip that instead of Rhaenyra begin alone reading with her bard #its all her ladies in waiting talking reading and just having fun #and Alicent arriving and changing the vibes #they just stop bc 'my queen' and such and then her having to pull rank to Rhae and further showings she's not one of them anymore #i might do a storyboard fuck it

[wingedhallows]

traitor - ch. one; sirius black

pairing: sirius black (golden trio era) x fem! oc | 0.9k words warning: dark themes, death, torture plot: Fourteen years ago, Hecate Hunt, a valuable member of the Order and once a Death Eater gave her life for her friends and the man she loved, at least that's what was believed. Now she's done hiding, ready to fight alongside her old friends and her godson. Ready to return to the life she once had, ready to once again be a traitor. authors note: hi there! I've been meaning to write this since it's been wandering around in my head for weeks. Thank you for reading and let me know if you liked it! :) ps.: this is the first work of mine in years, i wrote a lot of fanfics in highschool but somehow this helps with taking my mind off things. thank u <3 btw, things aren't absolutely accurate so don't come for me, let's just vibe, ok? ok.

navigation | chapter one ; chapter two ; chapter three

then

"I want you all to meet a new member to the order. I believe her to be trusted, however you might think." from behind the old wizard a young woman emerged. Hair dark and long, a solem look on her face as she stepped infront of him. "Nice to meet you." she spoke, voice deep and firm. Her eyes were dark, almost black in the dim lit kitchen of the Black residence. Sirius felt himself lean forward, determined to catch a glimpse of her face.

"This is Hecate Hunt, a powerful witch and-"a Death Eater." Alastor Moody spoke, his eye skimming from side to side, mouth in a smarl. "Felt it minutes ago." The other members let their shock be known. Gasps and whispers present. She knew the members, of course. How could she not know the legendary Marauders, for one. 

"Why would you bring a Death Eater to this place, Albus?" Minerva spoke, voice almost too quiet to hear. Hecate let her gaze wander to Lily and James Potter who held hands, thumbs stroking each others hands. She had known the younger members, as she visited Hogwarts the same years they did. They were hard to miss. Remus Lupin just stared at her, hands in fists. Sirius Black on the other hand had his jaw clenched, mouth in a scowl and his wand in his hand. She knew of the older Black all too well. She had listened to the Dark Lord complain about Walburga and Orions incapability of turning their own son to the dark side multible times.

"Hecate has changed her mind in light of recent events.-"I don't buy it. Once a Death Eater, always a Death Eater." Sirius interupted Albus, his fist connected with the dark wooden table as he spat the words. Anger rose inside of her, she knew of his temper, had seen it first hand in their school days. "Oh you would know all about it, right? Since your familiy's swamped with'em and all, Black." Hecate spat, hands now crossed over her chest. She stooped low, she knew, but she had to get in, she had to make a change. She wouldn't let Black ruin it.

Sirius was fast to jump to his feet, wand raised and his body shaking with anger. "How dare yo-"Sirius, please." Remus tugged him down to his chair. Hecate didn't back down, ready to take whatever would jump from the purebloods wand. It wouldn't be worse than to stand against the Cruciato curse, which made its way passed Lord Voldemorts lips all too often. 

Albus huffed a sigh as he eyed Sirius. "If i could continue what i was about to say." Hecate shifted her weight from one leg to another, uneasy with the mood in the room. "Hecate was the witch who freed Alice and Frank Longbottom from the clutches of Death Eaters." he paused, looking at the woman next to him. "Delivered them right to me. I believe that no real Death Eater would've shown them mercy. Therefore, after careful thinking, i recruit Hecate Hunt to be a member of the Order." she gave him a curt nod before taking a seat. She had freed them, too late though. Barty Crouch Jr had broken their minds when she arrived. She'd just spared them from their death. Her eyes once again connected with those of Sirius.

"The reason why i want to help you, is my sister."

now

Harry made his way passed the table, to the cabinets filled with plates and mugs. Sirius sat at the head of the table, a mug in one hand and the daily prophet in the other. "Morning, Harry." he spoke, a hopeful smile on his bearded face. Remus Lupin sat to his right, a little notebook placed on the table in front of him as he looked up at Padfoots godson. "Morning." he spoke as he saw Harry. He also greeted Lupin with a small smile. "Good Morning."  They didn't mind Harry looking around, it was an old and interesting house after all. Harry thanked Kreacher as the house elf scrambled to make the kid a cup of tea. His eyes locked on a picture frame. The only picture frame there was. 

There he saw Sirius and a woman he didn't know. Sirius looked younger, twenty maybe, the woman next to him was beautiful. Her dark long hair hung down her shoulders, shimmering in the warm sunlight as a bright smile spread across her pale face. Sirius gave her an adoring look before he smacked his lips on her cheek. The moment repeated, as every foto in the wizard world does.

"Sirus." he spoke, voice quiet. "Who is this?"

He turned around to look at his godfather. His face had frozen up, the shadow of a tear in his eyes. "Harry.." He could hear Remus say, an attempt of pushing the matter away.

"That's.." Sirius had to take a breath, his voice failing him. "Hecate Hunt." he spoke. He took a sip of his mug, the daily prophet long forgotten on the table in front of him. "Your godmother." it was merely a whisper as he spoke. Harry couldn't believe what he was hearing.

He had a godmother, somewhere out there-"She's dead." his voice rang in Harry's head. Harry placed the picture on the table, hand on his hip as he tried again. "How-"That's enough, Harry." Remus said, before Sirius rose to his feet and left, a quiet sob sounded in the distance.

"You-Know-Who killed her, there's nothing more to it." Remus spoke before he walked after his best friend. The boy once more stared at the picture in front of him. The woman, Hecate, once again gave the camera a warm smile. Just as young Sirius planted another forcefull kiss on her cheek he could hear a loud rumble upstairs. 

Sirius had just blown something to bits.

#harry potter #harry potter angst #harry potter fanfic #sirius black angst #sirius black imagine #sirius black x reader #sirius black fanfic #hp fanfic #the marauders #marauders imagine #marauders era #voldemort #death eaters #remus lupin #lily potter #james potter

[slightly-gay-pogohammer]

I haven't played less of p, but can keep asking questions!

Do you have any propaganda for playing the game?

hi welcome to the lies of p propaganda

literally a mix of bloodborne and american mcgee's alice when it comes to aesthetic, vibes, themes and battle systems. if you liked either of them and are upset that bloodborne won't get a port and alice won't get a sequel this is a good alternative

the devs confirmed a sequel and a dlc btw. and they're indie so they shouldn't have many problems

INCREDIBLE soundtrack, and here's some examples of my favorites because i need to share quixotic, memory of beach, shattered memories, hall of fame and arche abbey everywhere

the boss fights are difficult, but most of them are very fair and easy to learn the patterns of. while some are clearly fodder... anyone who played a soulsborne game know that every now and then you have to deal with a curse-rotted greatwood or a witch of hemwick if it means you can have a pontiff sulyvan or a lady maria in return!! if you don't mind spoilers i highly recommend checking out the battles with the king of puppets or with champion victor

tackles themes of overcoming grief, different ways to deal with it, rebirth, what it means to be human, being your own person and honestly and lies, with the latter especially being the most prominent one and heavily implying that even if honesty is good, sometimes a lie is a much better option for everyone

INCREDIBLE visuals hello

i need to talk about how good the monsters design is because body and mechanical horror fans rise UP

you can actually mix-n-match every single weapons you can find around, not including very overpowered boss weapons, and you can have a cannon arm?? like yes it's far from being the fastest weapon but consider: i can either hit and dash or i can make the boss explode

Your Choices Matter you know when a game promises you that they don't. well they do they DOOO literally every single choice starting with your very first one matter HEAVILY in the end

i can't stress enough how good the characters are, they're all full of life and energy and Love. you get a puppet in love, a beautiful charismatic old woman, a spunky young mechanic, whatever the fuck venigni my dad venigni has going on, an actually pretty fun version of the cricket and even pinocchio, who like most soulsborne seems to have little to no personality, is way more human from the get-go, with a lot of characters noting that he's so easily annoyed by their bigger-than-life personality and dramatique

this game made me cry SO many times between the music the lore and the incredible writing and voice acting. it's weird to say i didn't expect that much from it, like when the first trailer arrived we all went haha bishounen pinocchio bloodborne game, but the various npcs and even some bosses feel so human that inevitably seeing them going through situation destroyed me fr fr

but seriously the small details fuck me up so bad. the fact that pinocchio starts by making heavy mechanical noises whenever he moves and occasionally twitches and makes no noise when he attacks and the more "good ending" choices you make the less mechanical noises he makes and the more he occasionally grunts whenever he's hit is so nice?? they literally change every single one of his animation if you aim for that ending and it's so!!!!! aaaa

and also you can play fashionsouls the clothes have no effect other than being fancy so you can literally wear whatever the fuck you want and i, personally, find it very fun. big fan of the workshop master clothes btw that was my main until i unlocked the white clothes

i could go on but it would fall in spoilers territory fnasdmg point is. play lies of p

#gio replies #lies of p

[rosewaterandivy]

ii. let me dream of you

summary: interrupted dreams, meddling friends, and a storm.

pairing: s.h. x witch!reader

w.c.: 3.6k

warnings: my blog is 18+ MDNI; vague allusions to magic and the like, carpenter & flannel-wearing Steve.

a/n: here she is, as promised! i would like to thank alice hoffman and her exquisite prose, for bringing us the ULTIMATE autumn vibes with practical magic.

Nota bene: Reblogging, commenting, and liking my work is always appreciated! Reposting, however, is not. Enjoy! 💜

Series Masterlist | Playlist | Currently spinning:

On the tenth day of the tenth month, you’d decided that you’d had enough. Sick of waking up breathless and in an inferno of heat, a fever you couldn’t possibly sweat out. Haunted by kind hazel eyes and a soft smile, a faint cloud of wood and sap taunting you at every turn. 

You were good on your own.

Always had been.

And the arrival of a carpenter down the block had changed nothing.

Except that now you would wake at odd hours of the night, only to see a warm amber glow from his house down the way. Mimicking the purple hue from your own room, you were sure. Interrupted sleep, walking around in a daze, hallucinating that you’re seeing him in places he ought not be— in your kitchen, at your favorite cafe, in your dreams.

Tangled in the well-worn sheets of your bed. Resplendent and golden in the early morning light. Your fingers threading through his hair as rough, warm hands slid down your sides to grip onto your hips, giving a gentle squeeze. His arms wrapped around you tightly, pulling your body flush with his as you settled in his lap, an agonizing ache spreading steadily throughout your body. 

His hot mouth traveled up your neck until his lips met yours with a soft groan, the sound setting your skin ablaze as you sunk into him more, desperate to be close. Skin to skin. Your fingers flexing in his hair as you ground your hips into his, reveling in the low whine that managed to slip up his throat. 

It was intoxicating. He was intoxicating. His taste and warmth and the sounds that he made making your head go hazy in the best way as you thrummed with need. Desire swooping low in your stomach to leave the most tender of aches. Your body begged for him. You could never get enough. You felt crazy.

Your mouth met his neck in a soft suck, his breath catching in his throat as you licked and bit. Nosing along the column of his throat to settle just beneath his ear, infatuated with the dusting of freckles and moles there. 

It felt like his heart was about to beat out of his chest, pounding against the cage of his ribs looking for a way out. Skin erupting in goosebumps when your sweet breath caresses his skin.

“Thought about this before?” You asked softly, scratching your nails down his shoulders until you could squeeze his biceps.

“How did you–”

“Could feel it,” you admit with a smile to his pulse point, pressing a kiss there just so you could feel it thrum against your lips. “I don’t know. Just … could tell.”

He squeezed your hips harder still, pulling you closer against him, not even an inch of space between your bodies and yet still not close enough. His chest was heaving, hips arching up against his will, dying to relieve some of the ache.

“Me too.” He murmured the confession up to the ceiling, his voice just above a whisper. “Want you so badly.”

You reached down to feel the hard length of him through the rumpled sheets. The small catch in his breath encouraging you to rub your palm over him. You looked up as his head tilted back, neck on full display, his adam’s apple bobbing in his throat alluringly.

“Then take me.”

His heart skipped a beat, your words doing more to him than he thought possible. Words he’d imagined falling from your kiss-bitten lips more often than he’d care to admit. He wanted more, needed more. Needed you to say all the things he’d been feeling and too afraid to admit. 

And then Steve’s heart plummeted, his eyes blinking in the warm sunlight as his alarm blared on the nightstand. He looked around his empty bedroom in confusion, his brain lagging on what was happening, your hazy form slipping through the recesses of his mind and then it dawned on him.

A dream.

And a wet one at that.

Up at the shop, things were picking up as summer turned to autumn and you couldn’t recall the last time you had a day off. Everyone in town, it seemed, had a sudden hankering to descend upon Bell, Book, & Candle in preparation for the season.

The phone rang as you finished with a customer. Excusing yourself, you left to answer it only to find Tracy with the receiver in her hand nodding along and taking notes on a scrap of receipt paper. “Of course, we’ll be here to let them in. Thanks so much!” She chirped a goodbye and placed the phone back in its cradle against the wall. 

“Who was that?” You asked, stepping behind the counter to check the day’s to-do list. Most of the items had been crossed out— Inventory, Call in replen order, Front window display?, Bank deposit, File invoices. But something had been added to the bottom of the list in Tracy’s handwriting: H & M - 8 PM.

“Oh, just the construction company confirming our appointment.”

“Appointment for…?”

She gestured to the built-ins, “The teak? Your new neighbor mentioned it the other day.”

“Yeah,” you huff, “As a suggestion. One I haven’t had the time to consider.”

“Well,” she drawled with a saccharine smile, “Luckily for you, I’ve had the time and I think he’s onto something.”

“Hmm,” you hum, as if considering her point. “Do you also happen to have the money this will set us back?”

Mouth turning up at the corners, she propped an elbow against the desk. “Thought you could just magic some out of thin air. You’re a Callahan, after all.”

Eyes rolling, you scoff and turn back to the task at hand. The oft-dreaded inventory; you grab a pen and a legal pad, trotting off to the stock-room. Getting off of the shop floor was a blessing, nevermind that it was late in the day and you’d be closing up soon— customer after customer needing special attention or clamoring that the item in question wasn’t there, when it was clearly right in front of their noses.

Tracy can handle the stragglers of the day, besides she loathed inventory even more than you did. Mollified by the gentle pitter patter of rain falling on the roof, you let your mind wander. Business was good, Tracy and the aunts were doing well— no complaints there. But something was niggling at the back of your skull, darting to and fro before you could get a good, hard look at it. Annoying, yes but not distractingly so. 

The blue bic pen scratches against the paper as you note specific items and quantities, starring those that are running a bit low, prioritizing any with ample back stock for the shop floor. Making your way around the room from shelf to shelf, you lost yourself to the familiar routine.

Eddie and Steve were finishing up a job, an installation of a washer and dryer for a new mom. She’d offered them refreshments and checked on them every so often, occasionally with the newborn in tow. 

Steve was checking the input while Eddie wiped down the machines to clear any dust that may have settled. He eyes Steve, wondering what could’ve gotten into the man— up at odd hours of the night, walking from one room to the next only to forget why as soon as he’d arrived, and a faint, hazy look in his eye.

“You remember Trish?”

Steve grunts. “That Wiccan chick you dated?”

Eddie rolls his eyes, “She was pagan, but yeah.” 

He pockets the rag, steps back to allow Steve some room to assess the laundry unit.

“You remember that reading she gave you?”

A snort. “Once you fall in love,” he quotes with a laugh, “It’ll be forever.” 

He couldn’t help but disagree. While his conquests were plenty, and true, he didn’t love most of them, but there had been a few.

“Tell that to Nance.”

Now it’s Eddie’s turn to scoff. “Nah man,” He says, following Steve out into the kitchen. “You didn’t love her, not really.”

Steve ruefully bites his bottom lip. Yeah, maybe. “She’s better off now anyways.”

A clap of a warm hand to his shoulder as Eddie gives him a shake, “That’s the spirit!” And leaves to let the client know they’re done.

Steve grabs the tools and eyes the kitchen table, something from IKEA and already showing wear and tear. Knows he could do better— salvaged wood, something study and timeless. He leaves their card on the table and steps out the door.

The woman waves from the living room, still in conversation with Eddie, who is currently holding the baby for the time being. He nods to Steve, a signal that he’ll be done soon, before turning back to the conversation. 

He tosses the tool belt into the bed of the truck begins to roll down the sleeves of his flannel. Steve’s so wound up, he can’t think of anything but you, the Callahan girl with the shop on main street. The soft purple light from the house down the block. He’s started carrying a knife around with him, in order to whittle some odds and ends from scrap lumber. Something, anything to do to keep his mind off of you.

Met you all of one time and he wants you so bad, that he’s fucking you in his head when he should be doing things like paying attention to pedestrians as he’s driving or helping his widowed neighbor with her garden and hedges. Steve had always run warm, but now he’s so overheated that the cuffs of his shirts are singed. He’s hard constantly, ready for something that looks as if it’s never going to happen.

“Ready to go?”

Steve settles into the driver’s seat and sighs. As the engine turns over, the sky takes on a darker hue, more gray than blue with rolling clouds. 

“She was nice,” Eddie says, flipping through invoices from the passenger seat. “Said she might be calling us for a kitchen reno.”

Steve scoffs, “That kitchen doesn’t need a reno, just a table that isn’t a piece of shit.”

“Yeah,” Eddie’s lips curl up in a smile, “Told her about your carpentry skills, dude.”

He hmms in response. 

They pull up to the house on Willow Lane, Robin already bounding out of the garage to meet them. She’s got a few pieces of paper in her hand, and begins rattling off names and addresses for estimates.

“And, oh–” She follows them into the workshop, Steve shouldering his tool belt while Eddie frantically scribbled on a legal pad. “Tracy at Bell, Book, & Candle called to say the service entrance will be open for you.”

Steve furrows his brow, “Tracy?”

“Yeah,” Robin confirms, “Eddie did an estimate for her a few days ago. Re-oiling the teak built-ins? She won’t be there but the owner will.”

He stills. “Oh, right.”

Eddie smirks, and elbows Robin conspiratorially. “Y’know, I just remembered I promised I’d help Robs tonight.”

“Yeah!” She chimes in, “With the uh, thing.”

He stifles a laugh, “Uh huh, the thing.” Eddie turns to Steve, “You can handle this solo, right, big boy?”

Steve, for his part, is in a daze and while he registers what they’ve said, it never seems to reach him. Bell, Book, & Candle, isn’t that Callahan’s place? He’s got a lump in his throat just thinking about you. Already imagining the things you could do if the two of you were alone together. Steve could forget the reason he’s there in the first place if he’s not careful. He could make a very stupid mistake.

“Fucking Christ!” 

“Shit, I am so sorry,” Steve says, letting the service door shut behind him. He sets a small toolbox down and reaches to help you up. 

Startled by his sudden arrival, you’d dropped a blown-glass cloche on the floor and fell in a heap against the industrial shelves of the storeroom. Tentatively, your palm meets his as you allow him to pull you up. His grip was strong and comforting, and you couldn’t help but admire the way his arm flexed ever so slightly as he pulled you up.

“You okay?” He asks, checking you for any nicks or cuts from the glass. 

Steve hasn’t had an easy life, and it shows on his face. There are lines and hollows underneath his eyes that he’s too young to have, and there’s a good bit of loneliness there too, plain for anyone to see. He’s not the kind of man who hides things, but he’s trying desperately to hide his interest in you.

And failing. 

In fact, you can’t quite believe the way he’s staring at you. Would somebody really have the nerve to stand in the storeroom of your business and look at you like this?

Apparently, Steve Harrington would.

“Let me, uh,” His eyes dart to the shattered glass behind you, “I’ll clean that up, just–”

“It’s fine. I can–”

“No, it’s my fault.” He says with a shake of his head, dodging your concerned eyes. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

When you softly chuckle, Steve looks into your eyes and sees himself upside down. He finds himself in a pool of twilight, drowning, going down for the second time, and there’s nothing he can do about it. He remembers hearing some old wives' tale about how witches caught you this way—they knew how much most men loved themselves and how deeply they’ll let themselves be drawn in, just for a glimpse of their reflection.

Narcissus and the pool. 

Steve has no intention of spurning you like poor Echo, no nothing like that. He intends to go on drowning for a very long time.

“Takes a lot more than that to scare me,” You reply with a soft smile. “Broom is in the supply closet.” A nod to the corner of the room. “I’ll meet you out front?”

Your hair has slipped out of its rubber band. You’re wearing leggings and an oversized sweater, the sleeves keep sliding down your arms even though you’d rolled them up, you’re out of sorts but surprisingly patient. You’re beautiful all right, at least by Steve Harrington’s estimation, you’re exactly what he’d dreamed you’d be, except right there in front of him.

Close enough to touch. 

“Sure thing.” He says, watching you leave the room. 

Steve shakes his head, but that doesn’t clear up the matter. All it does is make him see double. Momentarily there are two of you before him, and each one makes him wish he weren’t here in an official capacity. He forces himself to get the broom and sweep up the glass shards. Thinks about the soft brush of your skin against his, wonders if you’d let him kiss you slow and deep, undress you leisurely in a warm amber glow. 

Later, in the cool calm of Bell, Book, & Candle, it takes everything you have to keep your nerve and look at Steve. He looks right back at you, irises like crisp evergreen. So quickly that you have to lower your gaze to the floor. 

A recollection of warning from the aunts, that one must be extremely careful looking into eyes like his. Women have lost themselves for a lot less than a glance. You shudder to think of the girls and women who would brave the bluestone path at twilight, desperation roiling off them like so much heat. 

Some came for vengeance, others out of desire. But they all came seeking love.

You would sit at the top of the stairs while the aunts did their work. The hearts of doves pierced seven times, taffeta charm bags stuffed into purses and pockets, a sense of magic crackling through the air. And you swore to yourself that you’d never end up like them, that losing your wits and falling in love was just not for you.

One-night stands a town or so over, frenzied touches in the backseat of cars, tongues and teeth battling for dominance, spit and slick aplenty. A spinster, you were not. The system worked well, allowed you to get out your frustrations, sexual or otherwise, and avoid the curse of the Callahan women.

That each man they loved died.

So no, you wouldn’t fall in love. Couldn’t subject someone to a fate like that, closed off your emotions, and kept your distance. Despite the ringing of the telephone, the calls and messages went unanswered from former paramours. They knew the deal, a one-time thing. It didn’t matter how many bouquets arrived at your doorstep, or cars idling in the street as the light turned green, people distracted enough to cause a fender-bender or two.

“Had a dream about you, I think.” He says, helping you to clear the shelves of product.

The blood drains from your face. Clearing your throat, you keep your voice light. “Oh, yeah?” 

Steve hums, “Mmhmm.” Furrows his brow and tries not to stare while you bend over to pick up a box from the floor. “It was …” He trails off, not used to remembering his dreams. 

It was a new development, having dreams instead of nightmares. One he’d happily take if it meant having you, the peal of your laughter against skin warmed sheets, the soft caress of your fingers trailing down his neck and chest mapping the scars of years past, the taste of you on his lips.

He shakes the thought loose and goes back to the task at hand.

“Good?” You supply to his unfinished thought.

“Yeah.” He smiles at you, so pretty it could launch a thousand ships. Pink tongue darting out to wet his lips, “Real good.”

Breath catching in your chest, you give him a polite smile in return and ignore the swoop low in your stomach.

While Steve is sure you’re deciding whether or not to judge him a liar, he can feel his heart flopping around like a fish in his chest. He’s heard of this happening to other men. They’re going about their business one minute, and suddenly there’s no hope for them. They fall in love so hard they never again get up off their knees.

Not that he would mind getting on his knees for you, if you were to ask.

Some people believe that every question has a logical answer, there’s an order to everything, which is neat and based on purely empirical evidence. But really, what could it be but luck that the rain doesn’t begin in earnest until Steve starts to sand down the teak shelves of Bell, Book, & Candle.

Lightning, like love, is never ruled by logic.

So when the first bit of it cracks across the sky, you’re watching. While Steve is busy with the sander, you approach a candle and blow on the wick until it catches with flame. A dim amber glow in the creeping dark. Eventually, all the candles are lit and when the storm crashes onto Main Street and cuts the power, Steve barely notices at first.

Because he is so fucked.

He was even before you started lighting the candles, but the soft golden light somehow makes it worse. His vision has never been the best, but even he can make you out in the dark. But now, the candlelight flickers and licks across your skin. Curves illuminated in the soft light, beautiful and radiant.

You smile bright and bite your tongue between your teeth, the whites of them flashing in the light. The scent of a struck match ushers out the scent of you in his nostrils; he misses it. 

Another crack of lightning, close enough to feel the charge, feels himself flush with a white hot heat. With a close call like that, it makes perfect sense that he shakes and drops the belt sander.

The silence stretches between you.

“Sorry,” he breathes out, nice and slow. Steve allows his gaze to linger, drawing against the planes and curves of your face. It’s enough to make his breath catch in his throat when the flicker of candlelight warms your skin.

And this is where he falters. 

Steve doesn’t like being unprepared or out of control. He thrives with a plan, a clear objective and goal. 

You were never part of the plan. Or, any plan really.

The day Steve Harrington met you was the day the world ceased to turn.

He’d never been so struck by someone before.

So unmoored.

He’s keenly aware that there are only a few feet separating the two of you. Not that he minds; he’s close enough now that the scent of you–salt and musk–slightly overpowers the woodsy candles you’ve lit. He far prefers the former.

Knows he would only have to take a step or two to the right to pull you into his orbit. 

There’s a chill in the air as the first thunderclap sounds. The rain falls heavily after that, the worst of the storm whirling through. It floods the room with brisk air and the crisp tang of rain.

He pulls you toward him, warm fingers tilting your chin up to look at him. Somehow, he’s got you tucked and pressed against him, back settled against the shelves before you can register what’s happening. You’re baffled when it hits you, the realization flashing across your face under a crash of lightning.

The green of his eyes is impossible, even in the dim candlelight. But even more than that, what makes your heart stutter in your chest, are the flakes of gold, like a halo dusted around his pupils. You don’t know how you missed it before; Steve looks at you, flushed and dazed, and it all falls into place. 

Oh shit.

#steve harrington x you #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington fanfiction #steve harrington fanfic #fic: tiofky

[emilykaldwen]

The Maiden and the Drowning Boy | Aegon x OC | Chapter Fourteen

Rating: Explicit

Ships: Aegon II Targaryen x Abrogail Strong (Lyonel Strong's Daughter), Jacaerys Velaryon x Helaena Targaryen

Summary: As the kingdom teeters on the edge of chaos, Alicent Hightower swaps the pieces on the board: Aegon will marry Abrogail Strong, Larys’ younger sister and heir to Harrenhal. Caught in the web of intrigue and political machinations, the pair must figure out where their loyalties lie, and what they mean to one another.

Tropes: Childhood Sweethearts/Friends to Lovers, Generational Trauma and Cycles of Abuse, It's All About the Character Development, Unreliable Narrators, Multi-POV, Canon Divergent, Bisexual Aegon II Targaryen, Book/Show Mash Up, Fix-It Of Sorts, Stopping the Cycle of Abuse before it gets us all killed, Team Neutral, fairy tale vibes meets victorian medievalism meets grrm

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Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three | Chapter Four | Chapter Five | Chapter Six | Chapter Seven | Chapter Eight | Chapter Nine | Chapter Ten | Chapter Eleven | Chapter Twelve | Chapter Thirteen

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Author's Notes: Back from hiatus on April 26th! (Chapter 16 is just about polished and I finally made progress for chapter 17). I'm sending huge, huge thank you to my beloved beta and co-pilot, @vampire-exgirlfriend for all her love and support and kindness. There's been a lot of times that I've thought about stopping, about not continuing this story, about maybe just keeping it to myself. It's been her love and very aggressive 'that is DUMB' affection that has brought us close to the end of Arc I.

And a huge thank you to the people who have liked this story. I genuinely would love LOVE LOVE to hear your thoughts. In inbox is open, reblog and tag me, however you want to let me know that you're here <3

we are now entering the 'oh my god these too are so fucking into each other they want to fuck so bad it makes them look stupid' era

CHAPTER FOURTEEN - Love the World Like I Should

Grandfather Rodrik shows up with love and gifts, and there's some smooching on the dance floor at Aegon's nameday feast. Also some political anxiety.

King’s Landing was filled to bursting in the days approaching Aegon’s nameday celebrations. Never had Abby seen so many people crush themselves into the Red Keep. ‘More will be at Harrenhal for the wedding’, Helaena had said, their small group seeking solace away from the gaggle of the court for a while. Baela had come with them, overwhelmed with the crush of noise herself, even if she did not admit it. The Princesses Targaryen, Abby, Wylla, little Floris, and Baela’s two ladies had all sought the quietest part of the gardens to hide from the increasingly aggressive attentions.

Now, though, Abby could not hide from the crush of people.

The Reyne retinue arrived in the early afternoon, and while an ancient and powerful house as theirs deserved their pomp, the familial presentation was for Rodrik Reyne, uncle to the Queen Alicent Hightower, and grandfather to the future Princess Abrogail Strong.

Grandfather to the potential future queen, as the whispers and rumors flew around the Red Keep with the coming celebrations. Rumors that Abby wasn’t sure would come to pass, but could not deny that the king’s wishes still might change. That was a future she wasn’t sure what to think about.

His hair was more gray than auburn, thick and wavy as if he were a man of twenty instead of near seventy. Lord Rodrik was tall and broad, an imposing figure on his gray and white courser, its fine white mane braided into little knots along the elegant arch of its neck. To see him and the king that was only feet away from her had a curl of unease snaking through her belly. To look at the king was to see a man wasting away, a man at death’s door. To see Rodrik Reyne dismount with fluid ease was to see a man who, while past the prime of life, clearly had so much left in him.

“Your Grace.” Lord Rodrik mounted the steps, arm clapped to his shoulder in the Westerland sign of fealty as he bowed. “It is good to see you in fine spirits, my king.”

“No finer time than to celebrate such a joyous occasion, Lord Rodrik,” the king said with a smile. Rodrik clasped Uncle Otto’s arm in a firm grip, pleasantries exchanged and his smile broadened as he bowed lower before Queen Alicent.

“You are the light of the seven, aren’t you, my dearest,” he complimented her, genuine to the core. The queen’s cheeks pinkened at the praise and she readily embraced her uncle, fingers grasping his arms.

“We are so glad you are here to celebrate, uncle,” she said. “I am pleased to see you in such fine health and I’m so sorry Aunt Dalla could not come.”

“It is a long journey and she is not as quick as she used to be. She was quite happy to stay back with Daerion and enjoy the children. I am their favorite, after all. It’s only fair that I give everyone else the opportunity to receive some attention.” Alicent blinked as she registered the joke, a chuckle spilling from her as her uncle pressed a kiss to her hand.

Aegon stood between his mother and Abby, and she felt more than saw him straighten up as Lord Rodrik turned his cool blue eyes on him. Age had not shrunk the man, and Lord Rodrik stood as tall as Uncle Otto, and though there was a far less threatening air to him, it made him no less intimidating. Aegon’s chin tilted up to meet the man’s eye and he inclined his head.

“It is good to see you, Lord Rodrik,” Aegon greeted, his voice polite and steady, when not two hours before, he’d been with her in the alcove behind the tapestry of Jonquil Drake frantic with nerves at meeting her grandfather. It seemed like the kisses she’d given him, as well as the growing bruise that was barely visible above the collar of his deep green damask doublet had not eased his worries. “I hope your travels were easy and without issue.”

The last time they’d seen any of the Reynes had been near a decade ago, at her mother’s funeral. They had spent time with her and her father at Harrenhal before coming down to King’s Landing to spend time with the queen and her children, and that event was entirely different than now.

“Good tidings on your nameday, nephew,” he returned with all the formality as if he were addressing him by princely title. “Our travels were well, and it’ll be good to be off the road for some time.” An expression of mischief danced in the pale gray-blue eyes of Rodrik as he assessed the prince before him, eyes catching on the bruise on Aegon’s neck and then glancing at Abby and the arm she had laced through his own. He raised a brow. “It would appear that your betrothal has made a man of you yet, my prince. I might even say you’ve grown an inch or two since I last saw you.”

Heat flushed through Abby’s face and Aegon’s own, his sputter brief and confused as the Lord gave him an amused look, as if he might ruffle his hair had Aegon been a decade younger. Instead, he gave another incline of his head before coming before Abby.

“You are most certainly taller than I last saw you,” he said, cupping her face in his gloved hands, the scent of horse and spice clinging to him as he kissed her forehead. Her hand slipped from Aegon’s arm to clutch at her grandfather’s crimson sleeves beneath his brown leather jerkin, warmth spreading through her chest at the gentle affection.

“Not much taller than this, I’m afraid,” she said, a light, awkward laugh. Her grandfather reached up to tuck a stray curl behind her ear, where the rest of her hair hung in a long, simple braid down to the small of her back. He cupped her cheek, and she caught a shine in his eyes, a slow exhale as the familiar look of grief she knew well crossed his features, aging him in the moment. “I’m very glad to see you, grandfather.”

Rodrik Reyne nodded, pushing past the emotion before moving on to greet the rest of his nephews and niece, and she felt Aegon’s hand slide around her waist, fingers bunching slightly against the crimson and silver damask against her hip. She hid her hands in the belled sleeves, knotting them together and taking comfort from Aegon’s touch. Her chest ached painfully but she gave him a smile when he murmured her name.

“I am well,” she assured him, leaning into him momentarily before their party went inside, her grandfather speaking of the gifts he had brought for all of them.

Over the past days, it had been a bustle and flurry of becoming reacquainted with her grandfather, of suffering through her sister’s company. The apartments that she technically shared with her brother had served as the hub for the activity of their family. Houses Strong, Reyne, and Lannister moved in and out of the modestly decorated space. It had been overwhelming, but with the arrival of her grandfather, Cory’s acerbic tongue and judgmental looks had been averted, and Abby wondered if there was jealousy hidden beneath all that venom. She had fallen into her own acquaintance with the Queen, whom she had known when she’d served as one of Rhaenyra’s ladies when they were young.

Abby also had to organize the gifts brought from the Westerlands that would be sent back with Uncle Simon. Bolts of fine cloth of gold and silver from the expansive Reyne mines, a peregrine falcon, lovely cream and gray with black specks and bright black eyes she’d named Caelus. There’d been books too. A small chest carved with mountains and flowers contained five books, mostly from Myr, and some from Braavos, including what looked to be an interesting treatise from a Volantine woman who advocated for the importance of women’s contributions, and another on teaching woman to cultivate what she had determined as useful qualities, to achieve worthy acts in their lives.

‘A woman’s success,’ it read, ‘depends on the ability to manage and mediate by speaking and writing eloquently and effectively, for men so easily dismiss the thoughts of women, especially when their power is threatened by them.’

Perhaps she should look to promoting more copies of the sumptuously illustrated work. Perhaps she might even try her hand at replicating some of the images therein. There’s been a box of paints and new charcoal among the gifts, as well as a newly bound book for her to sketch in. Abby smiled at the idea, and had tucked it away for later.

“Mind the dress,” Wylla’s voice came from behind, already dressed for the feast and bossing about the red-clad maids of the holdfast who had been helping Abby as she worked to put together her household. Theraxis lay reclined along the end of the bed, his great yellow eyes watching the flurry of maids with such focus as if he too were supporting Wylla’s orders.

“Only a single lady?” Grandfather had balked, perceiving insult before she’d hurriedly cut in, explaining Wylla was more than enough, she did not want to be demanding, and hadn’t needed anyone else.

Wylla had snorted, eyes flashing in the familiar argument. “She’s meant to be looking for more ladies over the course of the festivities,” with all the same annoyance aimed at her as she had aimed at Aegon in the courtyard so long ago. “She needs six at least, but will she listen to me? Nay, she’s a wee stubborn thing and Lord Larys doesn’t seem to push it either.”

The gifts had not stopped there, and she was currently staring, wide eyed, at the most recent one.

The ornate wooden box before her was made of varnished rosewood, with inlays of silver decoration along the edges, and an equally delicate lock that her grandfather had carefully opened with a tiny silver key. The tiara that lay inside was fit for a queen. Ten citrine sunbursts wove together like flowers, the colors of them running from red to gold to orange and in the center of each, diamonds glittered. It sat in the center of the box, resting on a cloth of silver pillow and her mouth went dry.

“Th-this is too much. Grandfather…” Abby’s voice faltered and she lifted her gaze to meet his. Never had she felt so spoiled, so doted on. She felt guilt for it, the way it warred in confusing uncertainty. So long she had never asked for more, and it wasn’t as if Larys was a doting brother who snuck her sweets and trinkets the way Harwin had.

Her grandfather’s gaze was a mixture of annoyance, affection, and more that she did not understand. “It is most certainly not too much, dear child,” he said with a casual wave of his hand. Wylla slightly raised her eyebrows when he wasn’t looking and gently lifted the tiara from the box. “You are the blood of Castamere. You are my blood, my granddaughter,” he had said, cupping her cheek in a warm, rough hand and pressing a loving kiss to her brow. “The realm would do well to remember that you are a Reyne just as the queen is. It is not simply Hightower blood no matter how much my good brother likes to pretend.”

At least her grandfather was honest and she could not blame him for that. This was how the game was played. This was how power was brokered, even Abby understood the simple truth of it. Unlike most, Rodrik Reyne did not hide his motives, and the care that he expressed towards her since his arrival a few days ago had proven genuine. He did not ask her for favors, had inquired about her wellbeing and made sure she had what she was owed to her station.

Wylla’s nimble fingers had ensured the tiara was settled in her hair, twists of braids securing the citrine that matched her hair. The Riverlands style was one that she was glad not to give up and she would not have anyone thinking she was anything but the daughter of the rivers, and now a child of Castamere.

Her grandfather had escorted her down to the queen’s party. The king and her brother and uncle were already in the throne room and she could hear and feel the buzzing of growing anticipation as they approached the antechamber. Her hand rested in the crook of her grandfather’s elbow and her fingers spasmed with nerves. His hand found hers and she looked up at him, mouth parted as if to speak. He smiled at her instead.

“You look so much like your mother,” he said softly, his blue eyes misty and his smile warm. It took Abby aback. She had not seen the Lord Hand smile so openly and honestly. Larys barely smiled and when he did it made her wish to avoid it more often than not. The last man who smiled at her in such openness was her father. “She is here with us and she would be so proud of you.”

“Would she approve of this?” Abby asked softly. It was a silly question, the kind of question a motherless child who could barely remember her own mother asked. She could see the queen through the doorway at the end of the hall, hear Helaena’s laughter echoing along with Daeron’s.

Her grandfather paused and seemed to steel himself. The emotion was plain on his face. The grief was palpable and he did not meet her eyes as he composed himself. “Your mother was in the very fortunate position where I could let her choose who she wanted to marry. She could wait, and find a match that she got along well with. Lord Jason was a possibility, but even if your mother wanted to marry him, I couldn’t let her resign her future to a foppish imbecile like him, Lannister seat or not. She fell in love with your father and he did not demand heirs of her or money or prestige. He simply wanted someone to spend his days with and they found that in one another. That is what your mother wanted for you. A world where you were safe and loved.”

He cupped her cheek and Abby lifted her hand to hold his, feeling her own tears threaten. “The future has one certainty and there will be hard choices to make. Know that your family stands behind you, and that you may be a Riverlands girl, but there is a lion inside of you. They say in the north wolf packs survive together. You are part of a pride and are just as fierce. Dragons could not take the Westerlands and fire cannot burn the rivers.”

“He won’t burn me,” Abby said softly. “I trust him. I… care for him. I want him, not for a title, not for whatever the future may bring. I simply want him and he wants me and we just want to be happy. I think we can make each other happy, Grandfather.”

“Good,” he said and dropped his hand. “Then should the Stranger take me this night, it will be knowing you will be happy.” He gave her a watery laugh, amusement on his face. “And should he mistreat you, then I will haunt him to madness.”

When they entered the antechamber, Lord Rodrik pressed a kiss to her hand and went to join the rest of the gathering in the throne room. Helaena was in conversation with Daeron, and Aegon…

Aegon turned to look at her upon her entrance and his face went slack. She blushed, smoothing her hands over her gown, watching as the candlelight shimmered over the green and blue layers of the skirt, the fabric diaphanous, like currents of water around her legs. Her fingers found the golden dragons embroidered over her waist, intermingling with the glittering red weirwood leaves, worrying at the material. Her slippers were as gold as the dragons on her bodice, peaking out beneath her hem as she closed the distance between them. Aegon reached for her and she slid her hand into his and watched the smile spread slowly across his face.

‘I think we can make each other happy.’

Abby was not meant to be on Aegon’s arm as they entered the feast. He should have been escorting his mother as protocol dictated since King Viserys had entered the feast already. It was a heady feeling to know Aegon would not let her go, even as he was forced to drop her hand so she could tuck hers into the crook of his arm. A thrill that continued down her spine and coiled in her belly with the rest of the bursting butterflies dancing inside that gave her the strength to tilt her chin up as all her lessons instructed her to do. The perfect posture, the perfect gait all came rushing to her in a way that she finally understood why it mattered.

The pride that she felt wasn’t about being Queen Alicent’s pet project, or even that she had somehow snagged a prince for a betrothed. She was Lady Abrogail, heir to Harrenhal, the legacy of her mother’s fierceness and her father’s wisdom. As they walked behind the queen and Lord Otto, Abby squeezed her hand along Aegon’s bicep. She was the daughter of the Riverlands, and Aegon was lucky to have her, for there were many others that she could be with.

He looked at her with clear and bright eyes, the lilac full of mirth in a way she hadn’t seen from him in so long, and there were broad smile lines around his mouth, the flash of white teeth as he grinned at her. His hair was freshly washed, the silver curls gleaming gold in the sea of candleglow. His doublet was new as well - a fine, black silk brocade with a pattern woven in that evoked a shimmer of dragon scales. Golden clasps in the shape of dragon heads gleamed down the center. The seams were piped with red silk, and red silk trim embroidered with golden dragons wrapped around from the center and over his back. The same embroidered trim encircled his sleeves, which were slashed open along the back of his arms from bicep to the buttoned cuffs, the Targaryen red brocade of his shirt beneath poking through.

For the first time, he wore a crown upon his brow. It was a hammered circlet of gold that rested gently around his head, interspersed with seven circles stamped with dragons. Before the realm, he truly looked like the prince that he was.

A son who was celebrated by his parents.

She was lucky to have him. Let them see it. Let Queen Alicent see how brightly they made one another smile when they got to choose one another. Let them see she was not beholden to The High Tower, or to the Targaryens, or to anyone. Let them see that for all they may want to whisper about machinations and intrigue, she wanted him, and he wanted her.

Abby curtsied deeply before the king before they took their seats. Aegon was on his father’s left hand - the place of honor for the evening, and she was beside him. ‘How lucky we are’, came the thought again. She had not realized she had spoken the words aloud until Aegon’s grin widened into a beaming smile, his eyes crinkling with his own joy.

This was how the past weeks should have been. This is what the welcoming feast to Lord Tully and his party should have showcased: the two of them united, happy now, even as they set out to figure out what their marriage would be, what it would look like. There was enough time for that.

“You know, people like us don’t marry for love often,” Wylla had said, words that had stuck to her ribs.

The queen, her brother, and her uncle did not care for her and Aegon’s happiness, that much was startlingly clear to Abby. They had not come together in this betrothal by choice, but beneath the heart tree, they had made a promise. They had made their choice.

As her elder sister, Corynna, and her husband, Erwin Lannister sat beside her, Abby wished for the comfort of Wylla and Heleana at her side. The latter was at the other end of the table, and Abby’s gaze sought the friendly face of the young woman at the table below.

Wylla sat with Uncle Simon and Aunt Mya, looking striking in her black velvet gown. It was cut in the southern style, the neckline edged in white and silver cut across the line of her shoulders, her raven hair twisted into three rope braids woven with white ribbon and strung with pearls. She looked like a dream, Abby thought. A maiden of winter with all her pale skin and dark hair; striking in a way that many other women were not and Wylla wore it well. Harrion was beside her, his head inclined toward a lovely, red haired woman beside him. Wylla had said that his betrothed, Lady Alys Bracken, had only just arrived. She was so slight next to the northman’s bulk, her smile soft, eyes crinkling at the corners as she laughed at something he said.

Wylla caught her eye and sent her a warm, reassuring smile that Abby returned with a little wave, uncaring of decorum at the moment with how shaky her nerves were starting to get now that everyone was staring up at her. Her dear friend had not shied about her own discomfort in crowds, declaring her own relief that she was not the one who would be center of attention in her teasing, sharp yet fond way.

A harsh pinch against her left arm made Abby jump and she turned sharply to look at her sister, who was smiling serenely as if nothing was amiss. “Stop it, you’re behaving like a child,” she hissed behind a gritted smile. “I’ll not have you shame me.”

“If returning a kind gesture and a greeting to someone across the room is childish, then I cannot imagine you have many friends, Corynna, that do not cling to your skirts.” She smiled at her sister, whose saccharine falseness turned quickly to annoyance. “Do mind yourself, Cory. You are not my mother, nor my guardian.”

She caught the sidelong glance Aegon gave her and she felt his warm hand on hers, drawing it to his mouth to press a kiss against her knuckles. Abby felt the spray of heat along her throat, pressing her lips tightly together to keep from biting at her lip and being too obvious. He kept hold of her hand, thumb running lightly along her knuckles in familiar reassurance, and leaned in to speak softly against her ear.

“Lady Abrogail, if that’s the kind of behavior you plan on keeping up, as your husband, it shall be my duty to discipline you for such talk.”

Abby’s mouth went dry, her flush deepening and she glanced up at him, demure beneath her lashes. “Prince Aegon, you get ahead of yourself. I am the image of propriety.” He smirked and they both drew back. Abby reached for her goblet to calm the different sort of butterflies fluttering through her stomach now.

The echo of a staff cracking against the stone floor of the hall reverberated through the hall and all fell silent as the king rose, the queen beside him in what was meant to be a show of unity. But Abby knew that she was there to steady him so he did not have to rely on his cane. The black, red, and gold robe he wore nearly swallowed him whole, and she wondered how heavy it was for him.

Beside him, Alicent Hightower wore the colors of her house instead of a glow of green. She was as regal as Abby had ever seen, in a storm gray damask gown with white flame embroidery along her neck and shoulders. A cape of gray silk felt about her and the gray sleeves of her gown hugged her arms until they flared out at her forearms to bell around her wrists. Her auburn hair was twisted back on the sides of her head before coming to a single twisted braid down her back. Upon her head rested her crown of state. It was a gold circlet with seven points of golden flame rising from it and in the center flame was a blood red ruby that matched the gold and ruby earrings dangling beneath her hair.

“Be welcome,” the king said. His voice had rarely been a strong one, but he had found the strength behind it to let the words carry now. “It is good to see so many happy faces here, as we come together to celebrate my son, Prince Aegon’s nameday.” He turned his head to look down at Aegon with a nod and a gap toothed smile that, while fleeting, was genuine. The people clapped, thumps on tables shaking the cutlery, and Abby grinned at him. Aegon looked taken aback by the well tidings, the shouts of wishes for good health and good fortune. The hand that he had rested on her knee tightened and Aegon straightened in his seat, smiling back and giving a wave of thanks as if it were the most natural thing in the world for him.

The King continued, “The Queen and I also honor House Strong this night. Since my ancestor, Aegon the Conqueror, landed upon these shores, the Strongs have been a leal and loyal house. Ser Osmund Strong himself was the longest serving Hand, and through the decades, this family has proved themselves time and again, their fealty to the throne and their dedication to the realm. It is why upon the passing of the beloved Princess Rhaena, that my grandfather, King Jaehaerys, bestowed the great Harrenhal to House Strong. It is this dedication that before he passed, our late Lord Lyonel Strong, the Seven keep him, agreed to a proposal. We welcome you all to celebrate with House Targaryen and House Strong as I announce the betrothal of our son, Prince Aegon, to the Lady Abrogail Strong, and their investiture as the future Lord and Lady of Harrenhal, under the wise and clement eye of Grover Tully, Lord Paramount of the Riverlands.”

The whispers of the betrothal had already snaked their way through the keep over the past weeks. First the servants gossip, then the unofficial talks among the lords who had, by now, sent ravens back home to their holdings in the Riverlands. It was news that had passed naturally among the realm, and while Abby did not see any surprised faces, the cheers that roared up took her by surprise. The slamming fists on the tables, the clapping, the shouts of well wishes and even some crass remarks was not at all what she had expected. She felt her cheeks burn and the flush of it snake across all the exposed skin of her gown. She yearned for the coverings of her linen gowns so none could see how red she had turned at the attention.

Yet, Abby did nothing to hide how large her smile was, so wide it nearly hurt. She met Aegon’s eyes, his own grin crinkling the corners of his eyes, and she never, ever wanted to see him frown again if this was how bright his smile could be. He then looked at the crowd and she followed suit, waving at the smiling faces, blowing a kiss of thanks to all. She did not startle when Aegon lifted his hand from her knee to tuck beneath the fall of her curls and rest along the back of her neck in a possessive gesture that made her belly roil with heat. She looked at him from the corner of her eye and saw that his bright smile had set into something darker, more firm.

The feast began, servants coming out of the shadows. Trenchers of roast pork in red wine and plum sauce were placed before them, steaming with scents of ginger and cinnamon. Shrimp cooked in fennel and white wine steamed from large platters, boiled eggs cut and stuffed with fragrant cheese and herbs nestled among salads of other fresh herbs and greens. Abby gasped, admiring the hollowed out Stormland lemons with glistening pieces of Dornish blood oranges and lemon sticky with sugar dotted the table in pops of bright, delectable color.

Aegon was eagerly filling his plate with the roast pork he so adored, and she reached for one of the sour orange treats, popping a sticky piece of fruit into her mouth and hoping it calmed the knot of nerves that were growing insistently.

“They certainly spared no expense,” Corynna’s voice was soft at her side. Abby glanced over at her sister who was commenting on the wine being poured to her husband. Her sister was as beautiful as she was sharp, resplendent in the colors of House Lannister, a ruby red gown that set off her golden skin, and an overdress of golden silk. Her brunette curls were tamed and pulled back into a low bun at the base of her neck, encased in a jeweled net of gold and rubies, a heavy lion pendant hanging from her throat. She decided not to engage with her sister’s low commentary, for it was exactly what she wanted, and instead busied herself on the treat in front of her.

“Here.” Abby glanced at Aegon, who held his fork up with a piece of pork. She opened her mouth to decline, and he popped the piece in with that dangerous smirk flashing across his mouth before going back to his food. It was good, the spark of ginger cutting through the sweetness of the plum. It had also served to get her mind off the fact that they were eating at the head table, and she let her gaze drift, ignoring her sister’s tut of disapproval.

Abby caught Baela looking at them curiously. She was beautiful that evening in the colors of her mother’s house. The aquamarine gown was cut in the Pentoshi style like the previous one she wore to their family dinner, with a deep v cut into the bodice and the layers of fabric pinned like a chiton at her shoulders. On her head she wore a silver tiara shaped into the heads of seahorses with matching gemstones for their eyes. Abby gave the princess a small smile. “You look lovely tonight, Princess. I am truly glad to have you here and I look forward to us getting to know one another.”

Baela’s violet eyes narrowed somewhat at being addressed, and Abby felt Aegon shift beside her as he honed in on the conversation. “May your futures be bright and happy, Lady Abrogail. Cousin.”

“Thank you, cousin,” Aegon replied with his tight smile. “Perhaps it will be your nuptials we’ll be celebrating next.” The words were friendly, at least somewhat so. Abby suppressed a sigh, but knew it was at least a small win. Baela did not seem to mind sitting next to Daeron, for the pair of them had fallen into a discussion about their dragons and how Tessarion had fared in Oldtown. “I heard Mother wondering if her and Jace will wed next.”

Jacaerys.

Abby chanced another look at the incredibly awkward end of the table. There was the queen, then Lord Otto, then Larys, and then… Aemond, Helaena, and Jace. The three of them were utterly silent, like mimes in a play, and it was hard to tell what made it worse: the fact that Aemond and Jace had ended up wearing near matching doublets that evening, or the sapphire sun that was Helaena between them.

Aemond and Jace and Baela should have been separated, but Jace could not sit next to her, for the rumors that would cause and so poor Helaena was stuck as the wall to separate them.

She looked every inch the beautiful princess from a song. Her silver hair hung loose and free down her back with four braids keeping her hair from her face. The twists wound themselves into the silver tiara she wore, the sapphires winking out like stars from the woven metal strands that took the place of her usual braid. Her gown was diaphanous silk, her shoulders bared. The sleeves were a light blue and the sheer fabric hugged her arms. The gown went from a lovely sky blue to a deeper shade of twilight along the hem, and the silver embroidery evoked silver flames dancing across the gown. She wore the colors of Dreamfyre, dragonrider that she was, the princess of House Targaryen that did not need to evoke her house colors to state her place in the world.

The look on her face was blank and somewhat wide-eyed, focused on the shrimp in front of her. Abby’s heart ached, wanting to go to her and get her out of the situation she was in, but there was nothing for it. Helaena already grew anxious with crowds and she didn’t need the extra stress of being caught between two petulant looking boys.

Jace tilted his head towards her, saying something that drew a small smile from Helaena, and the knot of worry eased slightly.

The course was cleared away, the minstrels along the side gallery merrily playing songs from each of the realms present there today. Currently it was a Westerlands tune, fewer drums than the melodies of the Crownlands, and Abby caught Lord Tyland’s head bobbing to the music from his place at his twin brother’s side.

The next course was brought out and it was the largest pie Abby had ever seen, along with pottage of wild hare and cabbage, roasted lamb smelling of caraway and fennel and thyme. There was roasted chicken in orange glaze. Her gaze returned to the pie. It was as big as a wagon wheel, the pastry crust browned and caramelized and surrounded by many smaller pies like a crown. The crusts were slivered all around and gilt in gold along the top, and she could smell the saffron and cloves. They were stuffed to the bursting with more eggs and mixed meats and smelled delicious, but Abby’s stomach was knotted with nerves combined with the heady twist of arousal that pulsed every time Aegon’s knee bumped hers, or the way he’d tap his fingers upon her wrist to make sure she was alright.

Aegon inclined his head towards her, waving the servant away and pushing his plate between them. “You’re not eating. We’ll share.” He even pressed his goblet into her hand, taking hers and sipping from it in such an intimate gesture that Abby’s nerves were utterly forgotten about in that moment. She took a sip from his goblet, unsure of what to say. Aegon raised an eyebrow at her. “Eat,” he ordered and she knocked her slippered foot against his boot.

“You’re eating enough for the both of us, Prince. I couldn’t possibly keep up with you.” His appetite was a voracious one, and the plate he’d pushed between them had already started inching back towards him. She stabbed a piece of meat and gave him a look as she ate. He looked only somewhat abashed and popped a piece of crust in his mouth, licking juice from his fingers. She was reminded of the lakeside picnic, and the way his lips felt against her fingers while she fed him, the blushing heat as he fed her cakes in return and the kisses shared.

It must have shown on her face because a wicked gleam flashed across his eyes, gaze drifting to the low neckline of her gown and the gentle swell of her breasts. A voracious appetite indeed. He laughed when she busied herself with her goblet.

“Everyone is staring,” she whispered, unsure if she was chastising him or reminding him. Aegon’s gaze raked along the bare expanse of her shoulders, his hand twitching along his stolen goblet as if he was keeping himself from reaching for her again.

“Of course they are, hunītsos. Let them. Let them see how happy you look.” His gaze grew uncertain for a moment and she understood what words he held back.

“How happy you make me,” she offered softly. It was finally Aegon’s turn to blush, the expression uncharacteristically shy, and Abby could not help but lean over to brush a soft kiss against his cheek. Satisfaction was bright in her chest when his blush deepened before his own satisfaction crossed his features.

Let them witness. Let Edmund Vance and whatever moody River Lord conspired against them see that Aegon was hers, claimed by the rivers.

“Prince Aegon,” Erwin called halfway through the following course - mutton and stag and boar drenched in plum and wine sauces, brown sauces, and surrounded with dates and figs. The youngest Lannister brother was a gleaming gold lion, square faced with bright green eyes. He was not lanky as Lord Tyland nor as haughty as Lord Jason. He was a third son, bred for battle, and while he did not appear to cross swords with her sister, Abby wondered if that was a battle he had no desire to engage in. “I hear you’ll be participating in the melee on the morrow. Do you wield a morning star like Ser Criston, then? Or perhaps a battle ax?”

Corynna tutted, leaning back with exaggeration so her husband might speak. “It was only a matter of time before we talked swords.”

“The Prince is admirable with his sword skills, Erwin,” Abby piped up proudly before Aegon could speak, her turn to boast of him as he had done for her.

Aegon’s hand rested along the back of her chair as he leaned over with a grin on his face. “Some could say. It’ll either come down to skill or my lady’s favor, should she grant me. Mayhaps I’ll have the good fortune of meeting you in the ring?”

“Everyone knows the joust is where one proves themselves,” Baela cut in.

“Prince Daemon was quite impressive with his blade in the last tourney I saw him in, just as he was with a lance,” Erwin said with ease and a smile. “All the bouts require their own skills and strength.”

The conversation of the small tourney for tomorrow kept on, with Daeron joining in. Abby ignored her sister’s displeased muttering and her husband did as well. Perhaps that’s how the peace was kept in their household.

As the dessert course came out, those in attendance began to move about the room. No doubt they were eager to speak of the confirmation of what had been announced, judging by all the gazes that flitted in their direction. There were her favorite strawberry and cream cakes just out of reach, but she found that she had no appetite for the rich confection with the nervous energy building. Instead, she snagged a piece of marchpane dragon off Aegon’s piled plate of treats. He playfully snapped at her as if he was going to bite at her hand before handing her a marchpane crown without comment.

She leaned towards Aegon, brushing his ear and delighting in how he shivered at the contact. Her fingers tapped against his arm. “I’m going to speak to Wylla.”

He reached up to snatch at her wrist. “Stay,” he murmured, eyes searching her face. Don’t leave me alone next to him, she knew he was asking. Abby shook her head.

“We have to mingle, Aeg, We can’t sit up here all night.” He rolled his eyes and Abby tutted. “Go rescue Helaena.”

Aegon glanced down at the miserable end of the table and they spied Gwayne having come up, a hand braced on Aemond’s shoulder as he spoke to Larys and his father. “I’m surprised Aemond hasn’t stabbed him yet,” Aegon muttered and gave a nod. “Is this to be our duty now, my lady?”

Abby scrunched her face up in amusement and took his offered hand to rise from her chair. “Aye, it shall be, my lord. Save me a dance.” He pressed a kiss to her knuckles and they parted, Aegon going to join his uncle and siblings at the end of the table. She tilted her head, admiring him as he walked from her before heading towards Baela.

When Abby looked at Baela, she was reminded by the statue of Visenya that Aemond favored so in the gardens, or the tapestries that hung in the upper levels of the gallery: women who rode the skies with braids twisted into their long hair, the fierce and determined looks on their faces showing their command of the world. Targaryens were the closest one came to gods in Westeros. This fact Abby had grown with all her life. Everyone in Westeros did. She saw how the smallfolk clamored for the affections and attentions of the dragonriders during parades, the furrowed brows of the septons who disliked the competition to the Seven.

“Princess,” Abby gave the other a bright, welcoming smile. “Come with me, I have someone to properly introduce you to.” There was deference in her tone that Baela was owed, but Abby also clung to the reminder that she was to be a princess too. They would be equals in a few months, and the Queen wanted her to grow accustomed to this fact.

Baela, her lovely, violet eyes narrowed in her direction, seemed to have other ideas. Abby had asked Helaena the other evening what it was that Baela had said in Valyrian, and the princess had only said that she should not worry, for she did not believe Baela would speak so carelessly in the future. The other woman held her gaze, assessing in the way Abby was sure her dragon, Moondancer, would assess and Abby swallowed past the lump of nerves beneath the gaze. She realized after a moment that it was one of uncertainty. It had initially felt hostile - which considering whatever Valyrian she’d spoken upon arrival had been clearly hostile, it made sense - but it had also become clear that the princess was uncomfortable and therefore more judgemental, Abby thought, than she might normally be. At least, Abby hoped that was the case.

“You have people to introduce me to, Lady Abrogail?” The disdain was not obvious, and Abby wondered if this was what it meant to be unaccepted by the Valyrians. The family had kept to themselves since the landing. She had studied the Targaryen family tree in her studies and knew how rarely they married out of the houses. ‘The blood of the dragon must remain pure’, was stated when they’d learned about the Doctrine of Exceptionalism that allowed the practice of incest, and outlawed the multiple wives that The Conqueror and King Maegor had taken.

Would Aegon have wanted multiple wives? Would he have wanted someone more Valyrian to make him feel closer to his heritage? The curious thought flitted through her mind, and Abby felt a stab of jealousy at the idea of such a scenario, along with an uncertainty she couldn’t quite identify, but similar to the feeling of otherness that she found herself experiencing among the company of the other Riverlanders.

“I do. I hope, very much so, that your time here in the capital will be as comfortable as possible. I understand that it must be quite the change from Dragonstone, and the company of the rest of your siblings.” Baela said nothing at first, lips pressed in a thin line before looking down the table. Abby followed her gaze.

Jace and Helaena had a series of tarts and other confections in front of them, and Helaena was laughing brightly at the marchpane tentacles rising from a plum tart. Jace plucked one of them, slathered in cream to take a bite, offering the piece to Helaena who shook her head in amusement and reached for one of the candied lemons.

Aegon had pulled his brother away with a firm grip on his shoulder and the pair of them had headed towards the floor, goblets in hand with heads bowed towards each other. They were accompanied by some of the other young men at court; the Fossoway boys, Ser Leo Costayne, brother to Lord Owen, and their cousin, Lyonel Hightower, heir to the Oldtown seat.

Ser Leo was the eldest at over twenty, his almond eyes from his mother’s Lyseni heritage striking with the silver hair of Valyria that spread across the empire. He had already earned the title of The Sea Lion, the West taking pride in their own fierce seafarer as House Velaryon did with The Sea Snake, Lord Corlys. Little Floris had found him handsome, blushing when her avid gaze had been pointed out by Helaena. Abby had found herself readily agreeing.

At four and ten, Lyonel was as tall as Aemond with the promise to be taller, with the same cut cheekbones Abby could see was a Hightower feature, while Alicent, Aegon, and Helaena shared the soft roundness of their Reyne mother. His skin was swarthy from his Dondarrion mother, a contrast with his lighter brown hair. Her eyes drifted to the group of ladies, colors of the Reach and Westerlands in their clothes, and how they clearly were eyeing Prince Aemond, who was doing his best to pretend to be above it.

Far better for their attention than that of Cassandra Baratheon, who was stoically sitting by her heavy set father, face flushed with wine and quietly hissing at his eldest daughter. An unbidden pang of sympathy pulsed through Abby’s heart at how unhappy the other woman looked, momentarily overriding her displeasure.

Abby turned her gaze back to Baela, whose own eyes were sweeping the mass of people before them. She wondered if the rumor was true of a possible betrothal between Jacaerys and Baela, the future king and queen of the realm. Dragonriders both, in the Targaryen ways of old like Aegon and his wives, like King Jaehaerys and Queen Alysanne. She wondered if it had happened already and was simply unannounced, Rhaenyra waiting for the most opportune moment. Or perhaps the pair were simply siblings, mayhaps promises made out of stubborn pride. Would that explain Baela’s disdain for them? Did she see them as interlopers in a place that she considered her birthright by conquest and the Valyrian blood flowing through her?

Baela finally rose, fluid and graceful and confident in all the ways that Abby still found it difficult to be. The other woman stood a few inches taller - not a difficult feat by any means, but Abby was envious of the graceful turn of her neck. She was reminded of the descriptions of Visenya: comfortable in silks as she was in armor. What a sight the other would make upon dragonback with a war cry tearing from her. How confident Baela Targaryen was;in her sense of self, her place in the world, in all that made her Valyrian.

It struck Abby then how she did not feel like a child of the Riverlands no matter what she claimed. It felt as if she were spinning falsehoods into a cloak to shroud herself in, to distract from her own sense of confusion. As they approached the closer table where her Uncle Simon sat with the Brackens, listening to the conversation blend before her in the lilt and familiar cadence of the Riverlands, Abby found herself feeling like an outsider. It had not quite been like this at the welcoming feast those weeks ago, where they spoke the language of the capital. Her mother tongue had been one lost to her over the years since her father died, relegated to the dinner table and bedtime stories, of ephemeral memories of lullabies long sung. To hear Wylla’s own northern brogue share in the words of Old Tongue falling in a similar harmony, panic settled in Abby’s chest to find that she couldn’t quite keep up with the words exchanged.

The panic was frozen when Wylla turned her head, and all at the table gave move to rise and give their courtesies to Princess Baela. Out of the corner of her eye, Abby saw Baela shift a little, felt the whisper of silks brush against her. “This is Lady Wylla Karstark, from Karhold,” Abby introduced, her voice coming out higher than she intended as she forced past the lump in her throat. Wylla rose, nodding to her brother who was also getting up to speak with some of the other lords.

“Princess Baela, I hope you’re enjoying the festivities.”

Baela inclined her head but said nothing.

“She is my dearest friend and also far from home. Also quite the archer.” Abby reached for things that Baela might find intriguing and welcoming, hoping her instincts weren’t wrong.

Wylla shook her head slightly. “You are too kind, Lady,” she lightly teased with the use of the title.

Baela’s head cocked, the tinkling of the silver charms in her hair soft among the din of the room. “My, all that snow and ice. It’s a wonder you do not melt beneath the dragon’s heat,” Baela said and the challenge was clear in her voice.

Wylla smiled in her sharp way, ever the winter fox. “As a daughter of fire and sea, I would assume you to be well acquainted with contradictions. One must burn hot to survive the cold.”

Baela actually smiled at that and Abby took the chance. “Wylla is a far better archer than I, Princess. I hear you yourself are well acquainted with the bow.” Wylla’s storm gray eyes flitted to her and Abby did everything she could not to shift awkwardly beneath her friend’s gaze. Not in this dress, and not with the sunburst tiara that graced her head. Instead, she grinned back at her. The princess merely glanced back at her before shifting closer to Wylla.

“Do you hunt, Lady Wylla? I hear there’s to be a hunt later this week and I do so miss hawking…”

Abby released a soft breath, pressing a grateful squeeze to Wylla’s shoulder before moving on to her aunt and uncle. Her cousin, Gareth, had stayed behind at Harrenhal, and she had fuzzy memories of her Aunt Mya. The older woman was plump and warm, brushing a soft kiss with a greeting. The din of the throne room grew louder as the meal came to an end, servants dashing between the party goers, removing plates and replacing carafes of wine and small foods for guests to continue to indulge in. The music shifted to a more lively fair and the dance floor quickly filled with eager revelers.

Lythene Ryger of Willow Wood had drawn her into the shy gaggle of maidens who were standing expectantly along the edge of the dance floor, trading glances across the room at the lords and Abby had noticed the looks they’d thrown in Aemond’s direction. Lady Lythene was five and ten, soft featured with honey brown eyes, her strawberry blonde hair woven with strands of river pearls in the common half knot coil that was common in the Riverlands.

“If Lord Yorick were here, none of these men would have a chance to win tomorrow,” Melony Piper said, all dark hair and more freckles than one could count. “My sister says he was the most fearsome knight not so long ago.”

“Psh,” Lythene rolled her eyes. “Everyone knows Ser Gwayne is a force to be reckoned with. Besides, Lord Yorick never leaves Runestone and if he did, Lord Borros would throw a fit.” She looked smug with the knowledge imparted and whatever look on Abby’s face seemed to spur her on. She leaned in. “Lord Yorick is married to Lord Borros’ younger sister with a son of their own. Should Lady Elenda not have a son, it’s said his sister may push one of her son’s claims to Storm’s End.”

As one, their eyes swiveled in the direction of Cassandra Baratheon, perfectly coiffed, and everything the daughter of a Lord Paramount would be. Raven hair wild as storm clouds around her bare shoulders, her golden dress sparkling in the dancing torchlight with an opal the size of Abby’s fist nestled in the hollow of her throat. Abby’s hands twitched, smoothing over the cloud of blue and green silk organza, the golden dragons and weirwood leaves embroidered over her bodice.

A warm hand touched her wrist and Abby met the gentle, honey eyes of Lythene, who smiled up at her. “Tá cuma álainn ort, a bhean,” she said softly while the others tittered. It took Abby a moment to register the words, “you look beautiful, my lady”, and Abby smiled shyly.

“Go raibh maith agat,” she thanked her and Lythene bit her lip as if holding back a chuckle.

“Agat,” she pronounced softly, the inflection different. “A little closer to got, and less like goat.”

Her cheeks burned and she repeated it softly and Lythene took her hand, squeezing it. “I can’t imagine you get to practice with many people here in the South,” she laughed, a tinkling like bells that drew the attention of other men.

“I haven’t. I’m looking forward to getting to speak it more, but I can’t get that sort of practice teaching Aeg- Prince Aegon.”

“You mean he’s actually going to try learning our tongue?” came the aggressive disbelief of Lady Melony. “Targaryens aren’t ones to debase themselves so.”

Lythene opened her mouth but Abby cut in, a frown slashed across her face. “Aegon is a Targaryen and a Hightower, a family that traces their lineage and impact to before the First Men, some say.” She tilted her head, exhaling softly and shook her head. “The Targaryens may be above us due to the gifts of the dragon, but you can be assured that Prince Aegon will take his duties seriously.”

She was reminded of the words Edmund had sneered at her, of how none would trust a dragon coming into the Riverlands and it was foolish to think so. Lythene said nothing, watching her curiously while Melony Piper’s bright green eyes narrowed somewhat, thin mouth pursed. Abby’s grandmother had been a Piper, which made the two of them kin.

Seven and the Old Gods help her if Aegon did not live up to her promise, but Abby trusted that he would. That he would, at the very least, try.

Melony opened her mouth to speak again but murmurs danced through the crowd, attention towards the dance floor. Abby looked over her shoulder in surprise.

Jace led Helaena by the hand to the crowd of dancers as the next song started, fingers touching as they circled around one another. She was a glittering, blue dragon amidst the crowd, hair like mercury as it flowed around her. Helaena loved to dance and the joy was obvious on her soft features, Jace’s own smile a shy one, his broad frame more obvious as he circled around her. Not as tall as Aemond, but Jace would grow taller yet.

“Well,” Melony’s attention had changed. “That’s an interesting development.”

Abby’s eyes instinctively cut to the queen where she sat at the King’s right, a slight furrow to her brow, and the Lord Hand beside her, his attention also on the pair dancing. A fond smile cut across Otto Hightower’s face as Helaena laughed when Jace spun her, and Abby wasn’t at all sure what to make of it.

Helaena looked happy, though, and that was all that mattered.

Abby startled at the feeling of a warm hand stroking against her elbow and Aegon’s laughter was soft as he stroked his fingers down her arm in a way that had goosebumps flaring across her skin. His fingers twined with hers and the ladies around her bobbed curtsies, murmuring My Prince and Your Grace.

“You all look like you’re having so much fun here, but I must steal my betrothed away,” Aegon said, his voice light and amused, in his element as the center of attention and even more dangerous without drink to cloud his senses. Abby felt the heated flush creep along her throat when Aegon tugged her into him. “I promised you a dance, didn’t I, Lady Abrogail?”

Lythene looked amused, Melony uncertain and Abby turned under Aegon’s arm so that she was facing him. “You did, my Prince. Thank you for the conversation, Lady Lythene, Lady Melony,” she thanked as Aegon began tugging her away. “It was good to meet you.”

Everything else drifted away when Aegon pulled her into his arms. The contrast to the last time they’d danced together was palpable. There was no anger between them, no confusion, no fear. He twirled her as he drew her into the space as if he were showing her off, her skirt flaring around her, rippling greens and blues like the rivers of her home, the candlelight glimmering along the golden threaded dragons on her gown, and the citrine bursts along her tiara. When Aegon pulled her into him, she could feel the heat of his body barely pressed against her, the flush of it coursing through her with every hammering beat of her heart.

“I wish we were somewhere more quiet,” Abby murmured to him as they turned around one another, clapping their hands before reaching for each other again. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Aemond tugging Wylla on the floor, her friend caught between surprise and a pleased flush along her cheeks. Abby would have to tease her later, in return for how merciless Wylla had teased her.

“Do you?” Aegon asked, grinning at her, eyes full of heat. “We could, you know. It is my nameday.”

“We’ll be caught, and I’d rather your mother not find us,” she chuckled, spinning away from him to turn around Lord Tyland, who smiled down at her indulgently while Aegon politely moved around Lady Johanna Westerling, Tyland’s goodsister and dance partner. Her gaze kept pulling back to Aegon whenever they were separated in the dances, and when they came back together, there was an ache in her chest that she could not identify. Relief? Want? Longing?

Everything?

“Remind me to get you a map of the tunnels,” he murmured, leaning down to brush a kiss against her temple and she couldn’t help the bubbling of giggles that escaped her. Aegon looked incredibly pleased with himself, and as the next song started, he pulled her closer to him, hands possessive on her hips as he lifted her in the air and spun her around.

“Whatever do you mean?” she asked. Then it clicked. “What, so I can sneak to your room?”

Aegon winked at her. “Clever girl.”

“I try.”

As Abby turned, her eyes caught on the furious, dark gaze of Edmund Vance across the hall, accompanied by Lord Piper and some of the other River Lords. Abby blanched, the joy she had felt abating like water on a fire at the ugly look in his eyes. So distracted, she was, that she stumbled her steps of the complicated dance, nearly falling had Aegon not pulled her to him in time. She saw his gaze follow hers, his own smile morphing into a hard look.

“I’ve taken care of it.” Abby didn’t understand, trying to find the steps again without ruining the entire dance, cheeks flushed in embarrassment. Aegon’s hand brushed soothing along her arm, his other hand warm on her waist and giving her a reassuring squeeze. “Focus on me, eyes on me, hunītsos.” His voice was gentle and firm all at once, quiet and earnest and Abby focused on the sound of it, her gaze finding his, softened now. “Aemond saved me from making a scene, but I’ve handled it.” He tilted his head. “I don’t need to take his hands.”

Abby struggled to find words, a strange and unfamiliar thrill coursing through her that she could not examine too closely in the moment. “And what have you decided to take instead?”

As the dance came to a close, Aegon reached up to cup the softness of her cheek, tilting her head back with his thumb on her lower lip. He leaned in, mouth brushing against hers, and the vow he made was full of promise.

“His pride,” he murmured, and kissed her in front of the realm to seal it.

What was your favorite moment of the chapter? What's something you're looking forward to? Any fun theories!? I'd love to hear your thoughts on what you're enjoying about Maiden and any curiosities you might have! And if you're not sure what to say, just a kind reblog with a heart or something would be lovely <3

[Chapter Fifteen]

#fic: the maiden and the drowning boy #aegon ii targaryen #aegon ii targaryen fic #aegon ii targaryen fanfic #aegon targaryen #aegon x oc #aegon ii targaryen x oc #hotd #hotd fic #hotd fanfic #house strong #aegon x abby #my fics

[multifairyus]

Missing Fluff Moments in Volition

Like…the intimacy Briana and Selwyn share in that sliver of time they have together post Mesmer reveal, root sharing and firefly kiss but before the Regents arrive? I just think Tracy really coulda given them a week or at least a day or two in Volition post kiss like damn 😭 ik YA pacing has to be breakneck and also we have to let Nick have a chance in book three but like…can they get a BREAK?? imagine what those extra days of no lies, no secrets between them…

I can clearly see them making sweet, tender love to each other and also can see them jumping each other’s bones…and that is a different post entirely. But outside of sheer sexuality like just CONSIDER:

• Bree sharing Sel’s bed before sunrise ands she needs to get back to the main house? Looking him in the eyes and telling him she trusts he wouldn’t do anything she didn’t want to do? Sel unsure if he’s on the precipice of Demonia or the closest to humanity he’s ever been. Experiencing and acting on emotions he’s had so long…he is self loathing, touch starved, and deeply, deeply devoted my heart can’t take this—

• Another sparring match… The banter, the teasing? I for one want Bree to unexpectedly pin Sel down with Arthur’s strength. Yeah. YEAH.

• Bree seeing Sel’s relationship to aether post root sharing change you cannot tell me she wasn’t gazing at him lovingly while his head was titled back looking at his firework aether show. Magic signature scents/magical attunement to each other convo part 2??

• I’m still waiting for Sel being able to play the violin (that’s canon right? Did I hallucinate that?) to come into play. I feel like Aunt Lu has a fiddle somewhere and is probably off the grid as far as entertainment goes…prehaps a campfire concert? Or a private one for Bree? (Side note: Valec challenging Sel to a silly fiddle off to “The Devil went Down to Georgia” a la Guitar Hero 3? Someone PLEASE write that crack I will pay you—)

• Generally experimenting with aether—idk what exactly but just non lethal things. Can they just make cute shit together? Root sharing is in a similar vein but I’m sorry that escalates so fast my man is literally drunk off of her and she can feel his gaze intensify—I…I can’t even think of something fluffy it’s just—SCREAMS INTERNALLY

• Our beloved homosexual supporting cast, William and Alice, talking shit and theorizing over the dinner table when their friends keep disappearing oh my god they’re not even subtle about it?? Frankly I want a POV of them just WITNESSING the tension between them. During fights is the most interesting but also quiet moments of rest and healing

Demonia’s Descent has a sultry vibes fosho but had to have some manipulative, possessive energy folded in for the ✨theme✨. It’s musical genres are alt/rock/pop/synth which I think lines up too.

But like…I need the devotion and admiration energy. I need some R&B/neo soul/jazzy vibes…Maxwell, Sade, H.E.R., Xavier Omär…i stand ten toes down in my selections but there aren’t many black artists in Demonia’s Descent…I’m this👌🏾 freaking close to curating a Volition Brelwyn playlist oh my god oh my god oh my god—Update: I did it >:D

#the legendborn cycle #legendborn #bloodmarked #volition #fluff #god why can’t they be happy for more than 3 hours at a time #intimacy #imagines #breesel #selbree #brelwyn #bree matthews #Selwyn Kane #otp playlist #playlist

[ceoofhelaegon]

I wanna talk about our Dreamer Queen Helaena' s abilities.

She can foresee life changing events but it is implied she doesn't fully understand them...or can't fully articulate them and thus why no one in the family pays her any mind.

So, I'm starting to wonder if what she sees is actual people or just symbols.

"Beware the beast beneath the boards".

She uses figurative language. And when the event itself arrives, she is super stunned by it. She did not fully expect it, it seemed.

Many haters have said if she can forsee the future, why could she not warn her family directly? Well, I now think it's because she doesn't see literal images of people. But more of gets a vibe and sees imagery she can't fully understand. "Dragons of flesh weaving dragons of thread." etc

This is very different from, say, the rumored witch Alys Rivers. Who is said to have seen Daemon in the flames, waiting for Aemond near God's Eye.

So, if Helaena was to kill herself because of having a vision of any family member, to me it would be more of she felt the vibe rather than saw clearly what happened to them.

She might for instance sense, or be troubled by a vision of Maelor dying.

Many might end up confusing Helaena's unease for a spell of madness.

And when Maelor's death is confirmed by Mysaria when she comes to her chambers to tell her, Helaena is broken.

This might confirm that she doesn't exactly 'see' the people she loves in distress in her visions and will only be driven to action when she's told what's happened.

I'm interested to see how they'll explain this.

But what do you think? Sorry for dropping a whole ass post.

Oh yes, I fully believe that she was actually surprised when she saw Meleys.

You know that feeling you get when you finally understand something?

“OH, that’s what you’re talking about!!! Thinking back it was so clear to see, how come I didn’t understand it before?”

That is the vibe I get from Helaena, because why would she see a dragon as a beast? She has Dreamfyre, she loves her dragon, she probably has seen Meleys before too, there’s no reason for a Targaryen to see a dragon as a beast.

But you know who does? People who are afraid of them, i.e the smallfolk and even her own mother, Alicent Hightower.

So her visions are purely metaphorical, in my opinion, Viserys’ also were but he knew how to interpret them or maybe since he’s not neurodivergent like Helaena, he could see them more clearly.

Off topic but I loved seeing Alicent pregnant with Helaena and he’s actively losing the ability of having dragon dreams. My HC is that Helaena could have dragon dreams since she was a baby, which is why she cried so much. 😭

They could play with this a lot, her visions get slightly clearer but since she’s in so much grief, people around her wouldn’t listen because they would assume her words are because of the grief.

Or, she straight knows what’s going to happen and gets even more grief stricken because she can’t help. Having dragon dreams and having such a deep grief? It’s heartbreaking.

There’s so much that they can do, not sure how they’ll utilise it but hopefully we’ll get lots of our Queen and seeing how she navigates her dragon dreams.

#ask #mejacinta #answered #helaena targaryen

[honeystwiggypeach]

Halley’s Comet

Steve x Single mom reader part two.

Link to part one!

Listen I’ve been thinking about Halley’s Comet lately and searched the year…1986? Guess who has a new detail to add to their season four fics!!

Tw~ inexperienced babysitters, uhm Dustin doesn’t know how to change a diaper?

Dad!Steve masterlist!!

Credit to @k-k0129 who I talked with a little bit about how like Steve and max have a sibling vibe, and how Dustin would probs need help babysitting Alice!

I will write more if anyone would like!(I can just turn this into something like my mini Dad!Eddie masterlist! I probably will do that because lots of ideas rn!!!!)

When your date night finally arrived almost a week after Alice’s doctor’s appointment, you were all dolled up in your pretty outfit hair and makeup done especially for this.

Steve hadn’t told you where he was gonna bring you just the dress code. While you were getting ready Steve was over showing Dustin step by step how to care for Alice, not with her of course just some doll he bought from the 99 cent store.

“Listen Henderson I know Yoh think that diaper is on right but it’s backwards and if my kid comes back with a backwards diaper” he glares at Dustin who gets the hint quickly working to fix the diaper.

“Good good.” He mutters examining the diaper, “could have placed the tapes a little better but I’ll give it to you.” Dustin lets out a sigh.

“Woah there you’re not done bud, you still have to learn how to feed her and burp her!”

“Steve it can’t be that bad!” Dustin shouts back.

“Of course if you’re a natural like me it’ll just come to you but you…” Dustin rolls his eyes and soon enough he’s watching Steve back out of his drive way telling him he’ll be back in a couple of hours with Alice.

“Max, do you copy?” Steve asks over the stupid little walkie talkie Dustin had bought for his birthday, though it came in handy cause the first thing you’d asked was how you’d get in contact with them if something where to happen with Alice and Steve simply waved the heavy thing.

“Yes Steve.” She lets out a sigh.

“Listen Max, I need you to promise that if Dustin tries to contact you, that you’ll awnser cause he’s supposed to babysit Alice and …I’m not so confident in his abilities.”

Max lets out a little sigh, she loved Alice and if it was you who asked her she’d be jumping around her room eager for you to drop the cute little baby off at her house so she could babysit, plus you paid really well for such a low maintenance job, all she had to do was care for her and she got to play with a baby?? She’s in!

But of course she has to keep up her reputation so she decides to give Steve a hard time, “What’s in it for me?”

“I don’t know Max like twenty bucks?”

“Deal.” She listens to Steve tell her when Dustin will probably ask for help and the conversation ends there pretty quickly.

Some few hours later just as Steve predicted Dustin is calling the land line asking her to be over because apparently Lucas couldn’t calm her down after she gripped a huge chunk of Dustin’s hair, and so they called Mike wheeler…she isn’t sure what they expected from him, she’s seen him interact with his own little sister Holly just a handful of times and she can’t say that they were particularly very good so she can only imagine the three of them fumbling around to settle her only to not even try her pacifier.

When she shows up she’s right. The three of them are awkwardly sat on the floor as they take turns holding Alice each time she’d stop for a second to examine who was holding her but really she was just being passed between Dustin and Lucas since every time she was offered to Mike he’d hold up a hand as if to gently push her away.

“Let me see her” Max tells them as she sets down her bag gently taking Alice into her arms while she crouches down next to the diaper bag pulling out the pacifier.

“Did you try this?” She holds it up and they all blink at it shaking their heads no.

“Of course not.” Immediately when it’s placed in Alice’s mouth she suckles the pacifier closing her eyes as if her eyelids had been the heaviest weights in the world.

“I think she was just tired” she mutters handing Alice back to Dustin who jostles her a little before he gets her settled.

“Do we just keep holding her while she sleeps? Can’t she sleep in a bed?” Mike asks.

“Sure…if Dustin had a baby’s bed.” Max says sarcastically, “babies cannot sleep in real beds especially not Dustin’s do you see how tall that is?” She measures the day bed with her hands pulling them away so Mike can see how idiotic that suggestion was.

“Do you guys not babysit at all?” She asks rhetorically expecting them to have.

They all shake their heads no and she scoffs, “you’re serious?” They all nod.

She drifts off into her own conversation for a while with Lucas before Alice begins to cry again and Max looks over to see her trying to gum at her pacifier.

“Max, what’d I do? I tried everything” Lucas practically cries ten minutes later and she raises an eyebrow taking Alice from him as she pulls a pre made bottle out.

“Have you tried feeding her?” They look between themselves but don’t awnser and she rolls her eyes once again before feeding and burping Alice who falls asleep afterwards in Max’s arms.

“I’m going home, I don’t get babies, I’m not even good with Holly” Mike says before he literally just goes home when Alice starts to cry again.

“Change her diaper” Max hands her over to Dustin who prepared all morning for this moment as he changes her diaper quickly.

Meanwhile you and Steve have just finished eating at some restaurant you don’t even think you could afford. Though he’s telling you that the night isn’t over yet, this has you fumbling with your wallet checking to see how much you had brought hoping he wouldn’t try and take you to anything too expensive.

He drives you up to a secluded little mountain not far from Hawkins before getting out of the car and opening the door for you taking your hand and guiding you to the hood of the car with him.

“Wanted to watch the comet with you.” He mutters quietly.

In your freshman year of highschool you had told Steve about wanting to watch Halley’s Comet when the time came with him, honestly you didn’t remember telling him at all so you didn’t expect him to remember but he did and you where grateful for that as a few happy tears gathered in your eyes as you watched the bright comet fall through the sky leaving a bright light in its wake as Steve gently cups your face.

“Can I kiss you?” He asks his lips almost touching yours, before he can say anything else your pushing foreword to kiss him yourself.

“That means we’re going out right?” Steve asks and you blink at him for a moment, “right? Right? Y/n? We’re dating now right?” He asks as he follows you back into the car.

“Want me to be honest Steve?” He nods quickly, “I kinda thought we’d been dating for like four or five months now ever since you spent the first night at my house and tiredly told me you liked me…I’ve been thinking we were together this whole time.

He blinks for a few moments, he had so much anxiety over this just to find out that the love of his life thought that they were already together???? God was he that oblivious, now that he thinks about it he practically lives with you and you give him goodbye kisses to the cheek every morning?

The drive to Dustin’s is relatively short and both of you are scrambling to his front door pushing eachother out the way to see Alice first.

“Hi baby” you whisper gently taking her from Max’s arms.

“I thought Dustin was watching her” You whisper looking to Steve who looks back.

“I don’t think you want just Dustin watching her babe…he put the diaper backwards on the doll.”

“Is that what that doll was for?” You ask gesturing to the car behind you two.

“You saw that?”

“Of course”

“You think I’m a bad diaper changer?” Dustin questions Steve as he comes out the room.

“I mean you had to call theme for something.” Steve mutters.

“Check her diaper!” Dustin turns his nose up and you giggle unsnapping the bottom of Alice’s indie, “Dustin…not only is it inside out, it’s backwards.” You mutter looking at her diaper.

You let out a little sigh as you set her down quickly fixing the diaper to sit correctly before you and Steve leave to go back to your trailer.

“I guess this is normally where couples part ways.” He tells you looking at you like he’s gonna miss you, “but I usually sleep here at night babe so not us.” He steps out the car doing a little jog to open your door before getting Alice out and settling her into her crib.

All and all, that may have been the best date Steve’s ever been on but he hopes that every date after that day will be with you.

I’m working on a part two to the single dad!eddie fic as well right now so that’ll probably come tomorrow!

#reader insert #x reader #st4 steve #st4 #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington x fem #steve harrington #steve x reader #Steve Harrington x single mom!reader #Mom!reader #single mom!reader

[victorluvsalice]

-->And then – party time! Smiler’s guests began arriving, starting with Cameron Fletcher and Myra Basu – I put them in Smiler’s group and had them follow them upstairs to keep them out of the way while Victor continued his clean-up. A clean-up made a little more difficult by the next guests to arrive – Brian Pimental (aka the local NAP inspector) was no issue, but Cletus ForgotHisLastName decided to kick over the trash can outside the house before I could get him into the group and direct him upstairs to start dancing to the radio! Hmph! Well, Victor got rummaging as I wrangled the guests –

-->But oh, what was this? A notification that Alice had gotten to Fitness Level 8 on her jog with Shadow, thus completing an aspirational milestone (in fact, straight-up completing the ASPIRATION – Alice now has the “Professorial” trait from Renaissance Sim and can write her own skill books!) and thus her New Year’s Resolution! :D That brought the trio as a whole to two out of three completed! Granted, I didn’t manage to get a shot of Alice actually celebrating completing her resolution because her jog with Shadow was being glitchy (Shadow was doing that thing again where dogs just run ahead for miles and miles in a straight line heedless of obstacles, and Alice kept switching outfits because the game WANTED to put her in her “White Rabbit” party outfit, but she wasn’t technically AT the party, she was in the middle of a jog, so she eventually ended up in just her regular blue Alice dress once I managed to cancel the jog), but I did get a shot of her looking pretty smug in her White Rabbit dress jogging along with Shadow, so I think that’ll do. XD

-->Okay, so Victor and Alice were all set with their New Year’s resolutions – that just left Smiler’s to complete, and that meant throwing a good party! I managed to get Smiler and all their guests up in the party barn area, dancing to the radio, then had Smiler unleash their Party Time party-bot for some extra party vibes. :D They then tried chatting with Cameron (who was not interested in hearing about lycanthropy, it seems) while Victor, done rummaging through the trash, reset the trash can and headed up to the barn to get a chocolate cupcake from Party Time, while Alice and Shadow arrived home, and Alice changed into one of her other party dresses to join the fun.

Leaving her standing in a pile of discarded clothes. Whoops – looks like the family left the laundry for a little too long! XD I resolved not to think about it for the time being and sent her to go join the dancing as Smiler let off a burst of happiness to ensure all their guests were in good moods (like YOU, Cletus) –

-->And then Myra and Cameron wandered off, and local townie Roxanne (who the game has decided is the Valicer farmhouse’s “neighbor”) showed up saying she’d brought a present! Curious, I had Smiler go over to invite her in (bringing some of their guests with them) – things were made a little more complicated by the appearance of specters at the front door, which seemed to temporarily break the whole “handing over the gift” interaction, but she eventually gave Smiler her present – an apple! Which, okay, we have plenty of those, but it’s the thought that counts. XD Smiler accepted it with good grace, and the two became good friends, aww. I was ready to have Smiler chat her up in hopes of getting some plasma off her too –

#sims 4 #the lazy save #victor van dort #alice liddell #smiler always #seriously Cletus what the hell #I invited you because I thought Smiler missed hanging out with you in college #now I'm starting to doubt that #damn trash can kickers #on the other hand Alice jogging along in her Late But Lucky outfit is very amusing to me #and honestly very appropriate given it's an outfit based on Rabbit #he'd appreciate her going for a nice run in it I think! #and I just realized that Brian is in fact wearing some of the pants I downloaded #the one from the 'pride flag colors' set #so that's cool :) #even if they don't match his top at ALL #townie fashion everyone XD #and yeah I was a little annoyed that the specters seemed to break the present-giving interaction at first #living in a haunted house can be interesting but also very frustrating #but as previously stated I am committed to the bit #so unless they move the haunts are staying #I pretty much know how to deal with them now so #not a HUGE deal #queued

[ikeservant]

okay okay mildly cursed ask but consider: IkeRev mc is from the future and she’s a big tiddy goth gf but also fucking chaotic and Jonah, Blanc, Seth, and Ray aren’t really sure how to react to this thicc queen looking and acting like an absolute badass and then playing Take On Me on the kazoo at three am or making a curtain out of worms on strings.

@gcs-sugar-coma I’m glad this is the first Ikerev ask I’ve ever done it’s so funny imagining these scenarios 😂

Since the era is like the late 1800s equivalent, there is going to be a decent amount of disparity between a modern day big tiddy goth and the ladies of that time that would take most of the characters aback for at least a bit but…

Jonah- Boi would be FLABBERGHASTED when he first saw mc with thigh high black socks and short black skirt. Would dramatically shriek. “WHY ARE YOUR LEGS BARE? ARE YOU POOR COMMONERS NOT ABLE TO AFFORD CLOTHES?” “Relax, my legs are covered.” “I CAN SEE YOUR THIGHS RIGHT NOW!” “I can’t help that you can’t stop staring at me like I’m a snack.” “GAH”. He felt obligated to get her at least a formal dress since she arrived here with just her clothes and a bag of cursed crafts. Asking for her measurements and her response “Wouldn’t you like to know, weatherboy.”Although he was shocked the light pink dress he gave her for the upcoming ball trying to feminize her had been dyed black, shredded at the bottom, and worn with combat boots, his outcry halted when he got a peek at top part of the dress, making him blush and think ‘you know, I kind of like this style.’ I think over time there’d be an opposites attract/ worlds collide since he’s goody two-shoes pastel-pink vibes while she’s chaotic dark vibes. Would take him a while to understand why she has to make spider earrings at 1 AM while singing Lady Gaga, but a part of him would learn to open up and understand and admire her for being authentic as she accepts him for who he is and let him let loose of expectations and go a lil wild.

Blanc- Okay he would be ALL FOR IT. Would just see tiddies and think ‘nice’. When he brought her to his house and Oliver yelling at her for dressing immodest, turning to Blanc for reassurance. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. She looks a-okay to me. Thought you were a feminist instead of an oppressor, Oliver. For shame.” He would vibe with whatever mc is doing. Gets a lot of looks as a man in a light suit with pastels skipping down the street with a girl in a mesh top, spikey choker and bracelets, and black thigh high boots with shorts is a sight to see, and Blanc is loving it. Will bob his head eating carrot cake while mc is rapping “Reeses puffs reeses puffs, eat ‘em up eat ‘em up eat ‘em up” and be genuinely curious with what mc is doing and not perturbed at all. She’s making potted plants out of baby doll heads? Cool! Great recycling and ingenuity. Mc offered to pierce his ear and she’d make a carrot earring for him and boy was DOWN for it. Supportive sub bf to wild dom goth gf.

Seth- Would be taken aback because legs showing and clear view of tiddies right away for everyone to see, but would find it hot. “Oh, this Alice is quite naughty I see.” “Boi what the hell boi?” He would want to do makeup looks on mc, seeing how different she looked in more soft makeup vs the sharp thick eyeliner. Seeing her gag at her reflection after that he decided she didn’t need to change, she’s a badass girl with edge so he wants to experiment sharp looks on her and even himself from time to time. “Seth, why are you wearing black leather pants?” Sirius asked. “It’s called fashion, look it up.” Seth and mc say in unison. When he starts pulling the “I’m dangerous you know.” Mc gives him the “B*tch please” look, grab his knife and throw it right on target, shocking him and finding it hot. Finding out she has a knife collection with googly eyes on the handles showed him her chaotic and humorous side. Would be chaotic with the both of them but complement well. Would be down for her to do ear pierces on him so he looks more fabulous than he already is.

Ray- (Lowkey think he had a goth/emo phase at some point in life you cannot tell me he hasn’t put on black eyeliner and would wear edgy clothes). Would probably not say anything about mc’s look but be interested and admire mc’s boldness/edginess. As soon as she found him playing with the cats in the alleyway she gasped “I HAVE TO SHOW YOU THESE” and ripped off her combat boots to show that her knee high black socks had kitty cat toe beans designed on the bottoms. The sparkles in his eyes convinced mc to embroider cat paws to his socks. Ray and Fenrir are already chaotic together so having a wild and chaotic mc into the mix wouldn’t throw anything off. If Ray and mc were a couple they’d still have trio chaos nights with Fenrir, much to the headache of Sirius who has walked in on them trying to recreate Mt. Dew or Monster energy drinks after mc described her staple crop of her time, which always ends in disaster and a blown up kitchen. He would get jealous when his cat Bell starts kneading on mc’s big goth bazoongas, but he gotta get used to it cuz Bell and him share a brain cell and both say “awooga” to mc. Overall would love mc’s spunk and vibe and that encourages him to loosen up. Would support her if she wants to learn basic combat but internally almost faints when seeing her in a black army uniform cuz she looks so cool and badass in it like hot dog this man loves a kick ass babe.

#ikemen revolution #ikerev #ikerev hc #ikerev headcanons #ikerev jonah #ikerev blanc #ikerev seth #ikerev ray

[ash-and-books]

Rating: 2/5

Book Blurb: The Haunting of Bly Manor meets House of Salt and Sorrows in award-winning author Kyrie McCauley’s contemporary YA gothic romance about a dark family lineage, the ghosts of grief, and the lines we’ll cross for love.

The Sleeping House was very much awake . . .Days after a tragedy leaves Marin Blythe alone in the world, she receives a surprising invitation from Alice Lovelace—an acclaimed horror writer and childhood friend of Marin’s mother. Alice offers her a nanny position at Lovelace House, the family’s coastal Maine estate.Marin accepts and soon finds herself minding Alice’s peculiar girls. Thea buries her dolls one by one, hosting a series of funerals, while Wren does everything in her power to drive Marin away. Then Alice’s eldest daughter returns home unexpectedly. Evie Hallowell is every bit as strange as her younger sisters, and yet Marin is quickly drawn in by Evie’s compelling behavior and ethereal grace.But as Marin settles in, she can’t escape the anxiety that follows her like a shadow. Dead birds appear in Marin’s room. The children’s pranks escalate. Something dangerous lurks in the woods, leaving mutilated animals in its wake. All is not well at Lovelace House, and Marin must unravel its secrets before they consume her.

Review:

The Haunting of Bly Manor meets House of salt and Sorrows in this young adult sapphic gothic romance about a girl who becomes the nanny of two girls in a strange family filled with darks secrets and death. Marin Blythe needs a change of scenery after her mother’s death. She is surprised to receive an invitation from Alice Lovelace, an acclaimed horror author and childhood friend of Marin’s mother. Alice offers Marin a job: become the nanny to her children in exchange for room and board. Marin soon finds herself arriving at the steps of the Lovelace House, in coastal Maine. Marin discovers that the young girls are strange... with their pranks escalating constantly to near attempts of murdering her. It also doesn’t help that she begins to find strange things around the estate and her room, from dead animals to blood trails. The girls include: Thea, who hosts funerals for her dolls and Wren who does everything in her power to try and drive Marin away including trying to feed her belladonna berries.Then Alice’s oldest daughter Evie makes a surprise return from school and Marin finds herself completely drawn in by Evie. Evie is mysterious and has etheral grace, and there is a connection between them but Marin can’t help but notice that Evie is hiding something from her. Marin soon finds herself spiraling down a path to try and solve the mysterious of Lovelace House and Evie, as well as figuring out what is truly happening around her from the dead animals to the strange behavior of the family. This one was a strange read for me, at first I found myself really interested but then I felt myself drifting further and further into disinterest. While the story has a beautiful gothic atmosphere the mystery itself and romance was not that great and the thing that threw me off the most was that it felt like it was suppose to be a gothic or something older but then would drop in modern day language and things that took out from the vibe. Overall, I can definitely see the influence of The Haunting of Bly Manor on the story and I think fans of gothic romance would have a fun time with it.

*Thanks Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books, Katherine Tegen Books for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

#book review #bookish #ya gothic romance #gothic romance book #lgbtq books #lgbtq reads #sapphic books #sapphic romance #all the dead lie down

[lightvsdark18]

After spring break, Grim and Alice needed a place to stay while their dorm was being repaired. So, she asked the dorm leaders about allowing them to stay at their dorm for a week each.

Heartslabyul

Alice was given a dorm uniform and drew a star on her cheek, but Riddle told her to choose from one of the four suits. She stated a star suit exists and since she's not a official card soldier she should have something different from the card soldiers to symbolize that, her as the star and Grim as the joker. He was convinced. (Grim got a red bow.)

Slept in the middle of Ace and Deuce's room. She bought an air mattress from Sam.

She liked how neat but crazy the place looked. Walking through the front yard of the dorm during the night was her favorite.

Ace and Deuce had fun joking and teasing Alice and Grim during their stay.

Riddle and her spent time in the dorm's lounge and talked about their interests.

Cater invited her to cafes and took pictures of the desserts she ordered like promised. She asked him what he wanted to take a picture of and decided that way.

She found Trey in the kitchen when she was looking for a snack and started a conversation with each other, leading to her asking for recipes from him to try out when she returns to her dorm.

Grim had in trouble with Riddle a few times.

Savanaclaw

Leona complained about getting her a uniform because he had to make the bean necklace before she arrived. Had to wear the bandana around her neck to cover the low part of the collar. Grim wore a bandana.

Plain bedroom, no real details. Grim hid in the closet and surprised her.

The lounge was her favorite because it felt relaxing. Didn't like the heat, but that quickly changed from the Fairy Gala.

Ruggie pushed her into the pool and Jack yelled at him.

Found Leona napping and just sat next to him to draw. In the middle of sketching, his arms wrapped around her waist and couldn't break free from his grip, (he knew what he was doing).

Trained with Jack during her stay, but did light workout compared to his.

She had to protect Grim from the students when he angered them.

Slept in Leona's bed during the Fairy Gala... with Grim in between them every time.

Octavinelle

Time to get fancy. She felt pretty good in their uniform and tipped her hat to her friends. A little hat and scarf for Grim. (I want the shoes, Alice give me yours.)

Simple and plain bedroom. Floyd tried to break into her room one night but found the door was locked. Still got the chance to flop on top of her and crush her with his body weight.

Trying to survive a week with the Sus Trio. She did like the feel of the dorm and how mysterious it looks at night. She likes the ocean, but the trio don't need to know that.

Did fall asleep on the couch one night and the twins found her. Azul, fortunately, was gracious enough to save her from them.

Cater took pictures of her in the uniform because aesthetic and she later posted them on her Magicam.

Floyd pulled her out of the dorm to go swimming and pulled her along like a rug doll.

Jade and her talked about gemstones, stuff from the sea, and the literal jade she had back home.

Found a tired Azul one night and gave him a mom hug when he asked.

The twins teased and scared Grim a few times during their stay and the cat would cling onto her leg out of fear. (I'm sorry, but I can't protect you from them.)

Scarabia

Alice was stuck in this dorm during winter break and needed clothes, so she already had this dorm's uniform in her closet. Kalim made a new bow for Grim.

There was a small vase of flowers on the desk. Cute.

The vibes were good from Kalim's positive energy to the delicious food. She enjoyed herself. What she didn't like was the heat, but I'm from Florida so I can deal.

She asked Jamil for recipes because her food is bland and not creative, watching and taking notes while he made dinner and explained.

Freaked Jamil out while telling him the story about the bugs in her parents' house like the big spider on her ceiling when she woke up one afternoon, roaches crawling everywhere.

Going to the Camp Vargas with Jamil.

Had a heart to heart conversation with Kalim one late night.

Grim often fell asleep shortly after dinner and had to be carried to their bedroom.

Pomefiore

She was able to keep the uniform as a gift from Rook for helping, Vil just had to get her the dorm shoes and a mini version of the robe for Grim.

The room had an apple pillow on the bed and a vase of flowers on the desk.

The elegant and graceful atmosphere was nice.

Surprised Vil with her keeping the promise she made to him. But it didn't stop him from complaining and lecturing her on different things.

Grim got in trouble with Vil a lot, and she would just glare at Vil when he annoyed her.

Vil kissed her face in the lounge. Rook teased her about it while Grim was confused.

Epel and her spoke in their accents when it was just the two of them. She jokingly responded in her southern accent and apologized shortly after, but Epel seemed surprise and gave a small chuckle.

Went to the second part of the Camp Vargas.

Rook took her through the garden and chatted about themselves.

Vil pulled her into his room to do her hair and make-up because why not.

Ignihyde

After coming back to the school, Ortho requested she stays in Ignihyde to ensure her health is doing okay and can assist her if needed. The jacket makes sound when you purposely rub the sleeves against it. Another bow for the cat.

The entrance was a bit spooky, but the inside looks cool as hell. The bedroom was, once again, simple and plain.

Was told the students here aren't social and keep to themselves, so she kept her distance and had to continuously tell Grim to leave them be.

Often spent time with Ortha and got called "Big Sis" a few times by him.

Watched some anime and played games with Idia. He did get shy at her hanging out with him in his room and got slightly comfortable around her. Ortho eased some tension.

Grim got mad when he lost a game and pouted against her arm.

Had a heart to heart with Idia one night.

Diasomnia

She thought since she stayed in every dorm, why not stay in the last dorm. Malleus pouted at her for denying him her collarbones in the uniform. A hat and jacket for the boy.

Spooky place. The bedroom had a flower on the pillow.

Got cuddle by Malleus almost every night. I mean, Malleus was around her the most and often sat together and talked.

Teased Sebek for acting cute and laughed when he tried to deny his cuteness.

Grim was spooked by the place and clung onto her leg often.

Silver saw Malleus entering her room at night and told her in the morning he's happy for them and wishes them a good future together. "I'm glad you and my lord finally becoming a official." "Me and Malleus aren't dating!"

#twisted wonderland #Alice #riddle rosehearts #leona kingscholar #azul ashengrotto #kalim al asim #vil schoenheit #idia shroud #malleus draconia #twst grim #written work

[lazybug16]

Books I read/reread in the last 3 months of 2022 and recommend (and yes, all of them are queer)

First rec

Afterlove by Tanya Byrne

Ash, a 16 year old student from Brighton, meets Poppy on a school trip and falls in love with her within a few months, but what happens when Ash is in an accident? Will death keep them apart?

Absolutely loved the concept, very quick read and you instantly fall in love with the two main characters and hope that they'll be together forever, amazing story and very well written 10/10

Date Me, Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye

Bryson is dared to date a different person each week for three months, and by the end of it he is asked out by Kai (out of rage rather than want) who is a closeted gay guy just trying to survive high school in the closet, but maybe being Bryson's fake boyfriend could change that

An honest delight to read, all the characters seem real and the main two have amazing chemistry (for me they have similar vibes to Nick and Charlie from Heartstopper) 9/10

Here's to Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

Second book to What If It's Us, following Ben and Arthur in the big city again, but this time with boyfriends of their own, so are their feelings towards each other really gone?

I think it was just as good as the first book, if not maybe even better, I found it realistic and very pleasant to read 9/10

Jay's gay agenda by Jason June

Jay is the only out gay/queer in his hometown, but when him and his parents have to move to Seattle, he gets the opportunity to meet other people like him, and maybe he'll be able to cross out things from his Gay Agenda list

Very well written and loaaaaads of drama, but it also had its fluffy moments, I enjoyed it (even though there was quite a lot of miscommunication, it was solved and they vowed to do better) 9/10

Lab Partners by Mora Montgomery

Elliot is in his final year of high school, with his twin sister already in college and feeling the pressure of choosing a career path, he meets his new lab partner, Jordan, who might help him figure out who he is

I loved this book so so much oh my god Elliot is such a sweetheart! There's bullying which wasn't pleasant to read but the revenge and consequences are AMAZING (also had a hunch about Cole and I was right hehe) very easy and quick read 10/10

Let's Talk About Love by Claire Kann

Right after breaking up with her girlfriend because she wanted to have sex and Alice didn't, she moves in with her two best friends who are dating. The summer arrives and all she has is her job at the library, where she meets Takumi, her new coworker. Will she be able to open up to him about her being biromantic and asexual?

It's funny cause when I first read this back in 2018 I was studying the exact same thing that she wanted to study, AND I'm asexual, so it was really cool. There's family drama, friendship drama and relationship drama, all three. Very well written 9/10

Some Girls Do by Jennifer Dugan

Morgan gets transferred to a new high school a few months before graduating and meets Ruby, who according to everyone is trouble and should stay away. But you can't choose who you love now can you?

Nice book with good queer rep but god the pageant story line was not pleasant for me sorry, and Ruby's mum can suck ass (also Dylan and Owen are the kind of brothers I need in my life) 8/10

What If It's Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

Arthur moves to NYC for the summer, interning at his mums law firm, but when he bumps into Ben at the post office, he might just believe that the universe decided to give him a chance at romance

Very cute story and fun to read, even though they were a bunch of 16/17 year olds haha, but it just felt real to me (also maybe too many Harry Potter references for my taste) 9/10

Queer rep

Afterlove (lesbian characters)

Date Me, Bryson Keller (gay and queer characters)

Here's to us (queer, gay and bisexual characters)

Jay's gay agenda (gay, genderqueer, queer and asexual (mentioned) characters)

Lab Partners (gay, asexual and aromantic characters)

Let's Talk About Love (asexual, biromantic and queer characters)

Some Girls Do (lesbian, queer, gay, pansexual, transgender)

What If It's Us (gay, biromantic and asexual characters)

#books #book recs #queer #lgbtq+ #book rec list #mine #queue

[strawberryhierophant]

Coffee Date (short story)

He was afraid she might not show, but more afraid she would.

"Wes?"

The voice was honey. Wes looked up from his phone. The cafe was packed, noisy. She leaned over his table, the V-neck of her sunflower-yellow blouse dangerous. It offered Wes a glimpse at her small, pert breasts. The skin glistened. She smelled of lilacs.

"Alice?"

She took a seat, smiling. Wes wondered if she could detect the drop of gin he'd thrown back in the car before he'd hurried into this awful crowd. The people made him nervous, and he felt himself glancing over his shoulder as he said, "Nice place. I've passed it before, on my way to work. You've been here?"

"My favorite spot," she said, motioning for a waiter, "I come here for a late night coffee sometimes."

"Coffee before bed? Isn't that bad for sleep?"

"It helps me," she said. The waiter took her order: honey latte, iced, almond milk.

Wes rubbed his forehead with one finger, trying to wipe away the layer of glistening sweat. He wished they'd chosen a different time. Mornings at a cafe. Of course it would be busy.

"Would you like to sit outside?"

It felt like a plead. Wes saw a hint of confusion in her eyes and changed the subject.

"I love the vibe in this place. Most coffee shops around here have an industrial feel. This one feels... more like a regular room."

"Right!" She almost exploded with exuberance. "It's like a cool combination of rustic and eclectic with nature themes. Did you notice the terrariums on those shelves over there?"

He hadn't.

"I did!" Wes nodded aggressively. "There are so many." But he was looking at the barista, who was looking at him. Tight lips, oval face. Did she recognize him from somewhere? He hoped not. He took a sip of his coffee. His mouth felt dry.

"I've always loved nature," Alice said as the latte arrived. She sighed appreciatively, staring into the large white mug. "My biggest dream is to own a farm someday. Sheep, cows, chickens. Just a little place in the country. Wide open air."

The crowd seemed to press in around them.There was no doubt about it now. The barista was watching him. Her shifting eyes kept darting in his direction.

Sweat dripped down Wes' back. It tickled his spine. He shifted uncomfortably in his chair, turning away from the counter, away from the prying eyes of the barista.

"And quiet."

"Mm," Wes agreed.

"That's why I love Natural Ground."

What was she talking about now?

"It's not cold or stuffy like some other cafes. All the green is so inviting, don't you think?"

A woman at a neighboring table leaned in and whispered something to her male companion, who promptly burst into a fit of laughter. Tickling sweat trickled down Wes' spine.

"Natural Ground," he repeated. "Is very inviting."

Was that the name of the cafe? He couldn't be sure. He couldn't remember.

"What about you?" Alice asked. "Do you have a dream?"

The barista was on the phone. Who was she calling. Outside, he thought he saw the flash of lights.

"Something you'd like to do?" Alice went on. "Somewhere you'd like to go?"

Her eyes glimmered with curiosity, with genuine interest.

"There is, as a matter of fact."

Alice leaned in, elbows on the table, the mug of coffee cradled in both hands.

"Actually, I could show it to you."

Alice's eyebrows shot up. A flicker of mischief flashed in her eye.

"We just got here," she said.

A very tall man rose from his table and walked menacingly towards their table. His hands were large and the knuckles went swinging past Wes' head, dangerously close. The barista was occupied with a customer.

"It's a one-time invitation," he said, forcing a devious smile. "Take it or leave it."

Alice placed her coffee down.

"Well," she said, "Aren't you interesting. What sort of trouble are you trying to get me into?"

Wes shot a glance behind him. The tall man looked him in the eye as he disappeared into the bathroom.

"You'll have to find out," he said, taking her hand. When he rose from the table, he was surprised, and relieved, that she followed his lead.

END

#short story #short fiction #writerscommunity #writers on tumblr #creative writing #original fiction

[parallel-selfs]

Playful Land (Chapter 1)

Translation by Ekala and Gasumasuku Gamer

Alice is in her third year with Halloween Week around the corner. Her friends are between 18-19.

Floyd kept distracting the NRC team by complaining on how boring it was, then a fight broke out. "I did what I could to keep Floyd quiet, but you know how he is."

A freshman told Ace about the restaurant.

Ortho was getting books for a dorm mate and Kalim tagged along.

"And it's not fair Kate will be free of all of this when winter break hits." She evilly laughs at Ace.

She's confused at the man's surprised reaction at the students.

"Hold on, this fellow guy looks like he's the same age as Kate, don't just drop the formalities like that." -Jack

She feels unsure about this guy.

"I don't look up popular stuff." "Half listening."

Sounds suspicious.

Now she's getting bad vibes from him.

"... The name's Alice." (First time using her new name)

"It's better to ignore the guy once we return to the school."

"How do we know you're telling the truth? You could be a random guy lying about being the caretaker of this amusement park."

"Guys, really think this one through. It's obviously a trap."

Gaslight, gatekeep his way into convincing her but she's not easily tricked.

She just stares at him with a stern look and crossed arms when he hands her a ticket. Grim takes it and says he will convince her to go. "Grim..."

Alice has a long conversation with the group on why they shouldn't go and how it's a bad idea. Ortho says he sensed no lies from him, but she was firm with her statement and they still wanted to go.

(Trey, Cater, Leona, Vil, and Idia already graduated, and Lilia isn't a student.)

(Riddle isn't the housewarden anymore, but is still the parent between Ace and Deuce. A junior overhead the conversation and asked Ace if he could join.)

(Ruggie is busy, so Jack asked some dorm mates to join, a junior did.)

(Ortho is in a dorm of introverts, no luck here. The club is his own hope of inviting people, two Pomefice sophomores joined.)

(Kalim visited his old club to see if any members wanted to go, a Diasomnia freshman joined.)

She sadly goes to in sure the students aren't killed or harmed while at the amusement park. She tells the two Starryal students to call the professors if they don't return tonight or in the morning.

She was normally walking which annoyed Ace and Grim.

"I'm surprised Kate is here, changed your mind because you realize how thrilling it's going to be?" -Jack

"No, I'm here as your chaperone. If I can't convince you, I can at least prevent you from getting hurt."

The new faces introduce themselves to the late arrivals. Tim, Heartstayal junior. Levi, Savanaclaw junior. Victor and Caleb, Pomefice sophomores. And Lee, Diasomnia freshman.

(XD oh geez)

"I also see Alice has joined us as well. How wonderful, this day will be one of thrill."

Arms crossed, firm look. "Don't get your hopes up, I'm here to protect them."

Sad fox face. "You still don't trust me, what a shame. Maybe the sight of the park will change your tone."

"It's... actually real?"

Uncomfortable expression from Alice.

"Kalim, sometimes you make me want to cry."

She's still wary of the fox.

The juniors and sophomores start questioning the fox, being blunt on how shady he looks.

Yes. How do we know you're actually weaker than them?

"Grim, wait!"

Now she's very worried and tries to think up on what to do, then tilts her head in surprise. "Your clothes changed? ... You look very handsome." With a small smile.

You're insulting yourself a lot. You're making it very obvious you're lying.

"Really?" (Now she's going to be protective over him)

Caleb and Lee are complimenting each other and snapping pictures.

Levi and Tim are teasing each other.

(XD Vil) Victor did the same thing.

(Cater graduated and Lilia is somewhere else, Kalim is on his own ;-;)

Picks up Grim slightly so he can reach the scanner.

Pats his head. "Baby."

Scans her ticket and the boys are slightly surprised at the outfit she received.

"Your outfit gives you a different attitude than your usual style, it's kinda refreshing to see you have a more befitting appearance." -Jack

Rolls up the ticket and hides in her cleavage.

"The brats always come with some unnecessary knowledge lately, but never I expected that woman would be such a pain." -Ferro

#twisted wonderland #twst event #alice #facts about alice

[best-hotels-in-ottawa-with-pools]

Feast Your Senses: Ottawa’s 9 Best Dining Spots

The zesty capital city of Canada, Ottawa is no less than a haven for all food lovers. From traditional, local cuisines to some exotic delicacies, there’s a place for everyone to eat and enjoy the best of their time. While it’s good to have so many options lined up for you, it can often get overwhelming for you to choose the best restaurant in Ottawa. To help you find the perfect dining option, here’s a curated list of the top 9 Best Restaurants in Ottawa. 

Table of Contents

Supply and Demand 

Alice 

North & Navy 

Atelier 

Gitanes

Perch

Arlo 

Occo Kitchen 

Fraser Cafe 

Supply and Demand 

Lying in the heart of Westboro Village, Supply and Demand offers a fusion of modern vibes and exceptional dining. They’ve got a knack for using the finest ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. And the best part is that their menu changes with the fresh arrivals of the season, so every visit feels like the first. Here, you can enjoy scrumptious small plates, pastas, and mains that entice your senses. 

Location: 1335 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B7, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.8Reviews: The food was delicious, service was friendly and the atmosphere was impeccable. I really enjoyed the unique flavours of the pea and goat cheese ravioli as well as the squid ink rigatoni. However, some of their other dishes were too heavily salted for my liking. – Juliana

Alice 

Step into the whimsical wonderland of Alice, where the artistry and imagination of chef Briana Kim – the winner of Canadian Culinary Championship, 2023, are on full display. Alice offers a vegetable and fermentation-focused tasting menu that is sure to please your senses. Every dish is a work of art, a culinary adventure that takes you on a journey of delectable flavors, textures, and aromas.

Location: 40 Adeline St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3L3, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.7Reviews: This was a totally awesome and unique dining experience! The dishes were all excellent. Each course was described to us in great detail by an excellent server, a different one with each plate. Each dish was perfectly paired with exquisite fermented juices. I will return soon. Thank you to Chef Kim and her incredible team! – Georges Sarazin 

North & Navy 

North & Navy has never failed to capture the hearts and taste buds of the diners. This elegant restaurant offers a fantastic dining experience, serving authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist. Each dish is a masterpiece and every bite is a burst of flavors. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a friendly get-together, or out for a special celebration, North & Navy delivers an unforgettable experience. 

Location: 226 Nepean St, Ottawa, ON K2P 0B8, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.7

Atelier 

Located in Ottawa’s Little Italy, Atelier offers a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. They push the boundaries of gastronomy, blending science, creativity, and passion to provide the best dining experience to visitors. With a regularly changing multi-course tasting menu, Atelier treats guests to a variety of flavors, textures, and presentations. Their use of molecular gastronomy techniques is what adds a unique touch to all their offerings .

Location: 540 Rochester St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M1, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.7Reviews:My husband and I enjoyed our dinner immensely. We had the tasting menu of the 44 courses, and I had the pleasure participating in the half-wine pairing. Was the best decision! The wine was paired wonderfully and truly accentuated the food. Staff was knowledgeable and really made our night special. I have food allergies and the staff knew beforehand and worked around my restrictions. Would recommend to anyone looking for an experience. – Delaney

Gitanes

Gitanes on Elgin Street transports you to the lively streets of Paris. This hidden gem exudes the charm and allure of a traditional French bistro. The restaurant shines by highlighting classic French cuisine with a contemporary twist. Every dish is created with care, precision, and a deep respect for French culinary traditions. Besides, they’ve got an extensive wine list showcasing an impressive selection of French wines, that allow guests to pick the perfect pairing for their meal. 

Location: 361 Elgin St Unit #6, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M7, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.5Reviews: Yum yum yum. Gitanes was delicious. We sat at the bar where the bartender provided excellent service, both in recommendations on what to eat and for cocktails. The food came out perfect and incredibly tasty. Gitanes is in a great location and has great vibe. – Brook Verboom

Also Read Exploring Ottawa’s Best Beaches Nearby

Perch

Situated in Little Italy, Perch follows the practices of ethical farming and sustainability. Their farm-to-table philosophy ensures that every bite is made from fresh Canadian ingredients, celebrating the flavors of the season. The menu features contemporary and traditional flavors, with expertly prepared dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perch is listed among the 100 best restaurants of Canada and is a must-visit for everyone.  

Location: 300 Preston St #1, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R6, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.9Reviews:  We had a truly remarkable dinner last night at Perch Restaurant. We opted for the nine course menu. Each dish was sophisticated and truly delicious. The meal was the highlight of our trip to Ottawa! – Sheri Morita

Arlo 

Arlo offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere on Somerset West Street. The restaurant is the perfect blend of creativity and comfort. As you dine by the soft glow of candles and salt lamps, you’ll find an ever-evolving menu filled with exciting dishes. Whether you’re into small plates bursting with flavor or hearty mains, Arlo is sure to provide you with excellent dining experience. 

Location: 340 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J9, Canada

Phone: [phone]

Occo Kitchen 

Occo Kitchen is dedicated to local premium ingredients. Their mission is simple: to make everything from scratch, even the ketchup and bread. Originating as a deluxe burger joint, Occo Kitchen has transformed into a gourmet artisanal eatery that reimagines everyday street food favorites. The result is a menu filled with delectable dishes such as grilled eggplant tacos, craft beer-battered Atlantic cod, and the ever-popular candied bacon cheeseburgers. The restaurant’s minimalistic decor, featuring white walls, blonde wood paneling, and contemporary lighting, serves as a perfect backdrop for the artistic presentation of the food. It’s a culinary blank canvas that highlights the restaurant’s experimental approach to creating memorable dishes. 

Location: 160 Bay St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7X8, Canada 

Phone: [phone]

Ratings: 4.2Reviews: Read some reviews on Yelp about OCCO and they stated that the burgers are very good and my wife would agree wholeheartedly! She said it was one of the best burgers she’s ever had and that’s saying a lot because she is very picky about her food. I tried it and I especially loved the candied bacon!! Very tasty. I had a Cobb salad and it too was very good. Lots of chicken and bacon in it as well as other ingredients. We also tried the calamari as a starter and it was very flavorful. Also tried something new for me and that was a kombucha drink that had a very strange flavor but was good. Can highly recommend this place and we will go back again, most likely. There are many other things on the menu to try. Oh, a big shout out for the sweet potato fries too!! Lastly, the service was great also. – Scot S

Fraser Cafe 

Located in a quaint corner of Ottawa, Fraser Cafe has been the talk of the town for its pretentious yet spectacular approach to dining. The eatery primarily focuses on using the best ingredients available to create extraordinary dishes all while keeping it affordable. As a unique twist, Fraser Cafe offers a ‘kitchen Choice Main’, a culinary adventure where the chef selects your dish. Surprisingly, no one has ever been disappointed with this delightful surprise. 

Location: 7 Springfield Rd, Ottawa, ON K1M 1C8, Canada

Phone: [phone] 

Ratings: 4.7 

#journey #travel #tour #tourist #vacation