Realistic or Modern Whispering Pines ᨒ↟ 𖠰 ~ Cozy Winter SOL ~ MAIN

[celestialbody]

Natalia Zamora

N

atalia did her best to keep her nerves in check when she arrived in Revelstoke a few days ago. The moment she set foot in the charming town, she’d considered finding him right away to break the news, but her anxiety quickly took hold. The weight of everything she needed to say had her second-guessing herself, and she ended up retreating into the comfort of her own thoughts, too nervous to make a move.
So instead, she spent the next few days adjusting to the freezing winter wonderland of Revelstoke. The temperatures were harsher than she was used to, but the town’s warmth, both in its people and its festive atmosphere, made it more bearable. In fact, it almost made her appreciate being there, despite the nerves gnawing at her in the back of her mind.
The longer she stayed without talking to him, though, the more the anxiety built up. She’d even spotted him a couple of times from a distance, but each time, she found herself instinctively veering off course to avoid him. It was a tough thing to do when your outfits practically screamed for attention—loud colors, bold patterns, always drawing the eye. Still, she tried her best to stay out of his way, afraid to face him just yet.
But she knew she couldn’t keep avoiding him forever. She’d promised herself that the next time they crossed paths, she’d do it—she’d walk right up and tell him the truth.
That moment came sooner than she expected.
She was making her way downstairs from her room, stomach rumbling as she headed toward the cafe connected to the lodge. As she reached the bottom floor, however, her heart nearly skipped a beat. There, standing right in front of her, was Joon. He was turned away, unaware of her presence for the moment, but so close she could practically reach out and touch him. The proximity threw her off, and a brief wave of panic hit her.
TIME TO RETREAT.
Her instinct screamed at her to step back, to turn around and avoid the confrontation. She barely took a step back before Joon turned to face her, their eyes locking in an instant. Her heart was in her throat, and for a split second, she froze.
A nervous smile tugged at her lips as she fumbled for something to say, her mind racing. She couldn’t run now. He had seen her.

"Hey! Uh, Joon...do you remember me? Natalia?"

Her voice came out a little shakier than she would’ve liked, and she winced inwardly. God, this is going to be so much worse if he doesn’t even remember me.

outfit:

location:

Revelstoke Mountain Lodge

tags:

Joon PrincessAveRedfern

 

[ShellBelles]

Ozelia Mae Bonet

W

alking down the snowy street, Ozelia tapped out one last message to her parents. They had been especially worried about her spending Christmas alone this year. Normally, the family would come together to enjoy a festive gathering, filled with shared laughter and good food. But this time, Ozelia had encouraged them to take a romantic holiday for themselves instead.
She was a grown woman now, and while she loved her parents deeply, she didn’t think they needed to worry so much about her being alone for one holiday. It was just one gathering, and they could easily meet up any other day for some fun activity. Ozelia wanted them to have a chance to truly relax and enjoy a romantic experience together, something they rarely did in their busy lives.
Now, here she was, in the midst of her own solo holiday.
She’d decided to step out and explore the town’s Festival of Lights again. It was a place she’d visited several times before, but this time, she was on her own. It felt different—quieter somehow, but also more peaceful. She relished the opportunity to walk at her own pace, sipping on a warm hot chocolate as she took in the twinkling lights and vibrant displays. The usual bustling crowd seemed to fade away, leaving her to enjoy the simple magic of the moment.
As she wandered, her eyes caught sight of one of her students and their parent walking by. Smiling warmly, Ozelia waved politely from across the way, happy to see her student enjoying the festivities with family. She didn’t want to interrupt their moment, so she continued on her path, grateful for the brief connection and glad that, even on this quiet Christmas, she could share in a little piece of the holiday joy.

outfit:

location:

Main Street

tags:

Eileen ShellBelles

POV - Eileen Harigold
​

The smell of peppermint and hot cocoa filled the air at the residence of Eileen's family. Eileen and her dad, Rufus, were currently visiting her aunt and her family for Christmas at their house. It was her aunt, her aunt's husband, and her cousin living there in Revelstoke. They had planned a whole Christmas dinner for their get together. Technically Eileen and her dad weren't supposed to show up until later in the evening, but her dad decided that they show up beforehand, since the whole day was meant to be about spending time together.

Everyone was sat down in the living room, chatting and engaging over cups of hot chocolate and a tray of candy canes. Rufus was catching up with his sister and and brother-in-law. Eileen's cousin simply kept to himself with his game, only occasionally looking up to give a simple nod or quick answer when his name was mentioned during the conversation and their attention was on him.

The only one who was completely disconnected from the whole get together was Eileen. She simply sat there in her chair, with the most emotionally hollow look on her face. She hadn't even bothered to touch her hot cocoa. She tried to mentally get through to herself. To scold herself for being so distant with her family. But she just couldn't. Something within Eileen was sucking up all the Christmas spirit right out of her. Something like...grief.

What was meant to be such a joyous time of year, was nothing more than a time of reminiscing for Eileen. That's because it was around this time that her mother had passed away from her sickness. Eileen tried hard not to think about it. But the more she tried to repress all those bittersweet memories, the more they continued to flood her head. All those memories of Christmas when she was a child. When she would decorate the house with both of her parents. When she would excitedly open gifts in front of her parents. When her mom would always lift her up so she could put the star on top of the tree. When her mom would let her lick the spoon when they made cookies together. When her mom would always sing Silent Night to lull her to sleep every Christmas night. Suddenly, it all became too much for her.

Eileen quickly stood up from her chair, taking a deep breath to try to collect herself, before she moved to grab her coat and head for the door. Everyone had looked up at her and watched, her dad being the one to speak up as he tried to call out to her. "Eileen? Eileen, where are you going?" Eileen didn't stop in her tracks once as she threw on her coat. She didn't even look back as she called out in response while opening up the front door. "I need...fresh air." Without another word, Eileen was out the door. Rufus sighed as he hung his head with a solemn look and shrugged. Deep down, he knew that his daughter was still struggling with the loss of her mother.

Outside, Eileen treaded along the path with her hands in her coat pockets, wincing at the cold air hitting against her face. She looked down as she walked further and further away from the house. She just couldn't do it. She couldn't bring herself to find any joy out of this holiday now. How could she? She asked herself that as she walked through the town. A cloud of negativity wandering around in a place full of cheer. It wasn't fair. She thought she could be over it now. It's been years. Her dad had moved on. Eileen was actually upset about how he well he had, even though that didn't make any sense to her. She should have too. She just didn't. And she couldn't understand why.

Eileen let out a groan as she gripped her head. She was overwhelming herself now. She needed to take a break. She saw a nearby bench and immediately went over to it before taking a seat. Eileen then just sat there with her head in her hands. The only still thing in this environment of all this movement going on around her. The scene would look so miserable to any bystander.

celestialbody (Ozelia)

 

[PrincessAveRedfern]

Kennedy Redfern

Auto Shop Co-Owner

Location

Penthouse Party

"He's kind of cute"

interactions.

PotatochipsRlit -Bryson

K

ennedy Kennedy chuckled at his stubbornness, the playful banter between them creating a warm atmosphere in the room. She wrapped her arms around him from behind, feeling the comfort of his presence envelop her. When he turned his head to glare at her, she couldn’t help but smirk, the challenge in his eyes only making her more determined. Without hesitation, she planted her lips against his, a soft but electrifying kiss, before playfully pulling away.

“I promise you, we can take naps in my room,”

she said softly, her voice laced with affection as she hovered just inches from him. She gave him a gentle squeeze, enjoying the moment before jumping out of bed and landing gracefully on her feet.

Moving from behind him, she stood in front of him, taking his hands in hers. The warmth of his grip sent a shiver of excitement through her.

“Now, I know you only came with a few things because you’re always on the road, etc... butttttt, I saw this cute outfit and I may have already snuck it into the bathroom for you to wear today,”

she said, her smile brightening even further at the thought of Christmas Eve celebrations.

She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief and delight. Even while lounging in bed, he seemed almost taller than her, a constant reminder of the comfort and safety she felt in his presence. Before letting his hands go, she leaned in and pressed a soft, lingering kiss against them, savoring the connection between them.

“Go on, get ready! I can’t wait to see you in it,”

she urged, her excitement bubbling over as she stepped back, her heart fluttering at the thought of sharing the day with him. Today was about joy and celebration, and she couldn’t think of anyone she’d rather spend it with than him.

 

[fieldofclover]

now playing: red hot winter - xylo

So Daddy had finally done it. He had finally had enough of his darling daughter's rampant partying and troublemaking. Tori hadn't even planned on getting arrested in the first place - the snow wasn't even hers!

...

Okay, maybe it was. But still, how was she to know that she had run into an undercover cop? Anyway, once Daddy had bailed her out, he had gone off on her - and before she had the chance to defend herself or beg for forgiveness, he had sent her out of the country, across the Atlantic to some dingy Canadian resort town. But Tori believed that he'd come around. He was just embarrassed, that was all. Daddy would let her come back home sooner or later, she knew it.

But for now, Tori was stuck in Revelstoke. Alone. On Christmas Day, at that. At least it was picturesque, like something out of a postcard. If she wasn't forced to be here, then she might have actually enjoyed the view. Of course, that wasn't the case. She had nobody here to enjoy it with. All of her A-list friends were off doing fun things - or fun people. Now she had to spend the happiest day of the year totally alone. No lovers. No parties. No presents. Nothing. What a way to spend Christmas. If her inner circle would hear about this, she'd never hear the end of it. Daddy had paid a lot of money to keep her arrest out of the press, after all.

She sighed as she stared out of the window of her suite, knees to her chest where she sat on the window seat. This was utterly disappointing. Nobody was going to pay attention to her here. Nobody would recognize the power of the Sinclair name here. She had no butler, chef, driver, or maid to cater to her every whelm. Everything had been ripped from her, all because she made one little mistake. And the words that Daddy had spat at her kept on ringing in her ears: "You've lived your last day here. I'm done bailing you out - you're done. You don't deserve the Sinclair name. Don't come back. Ever." And then, there she was, watching the estate fade into the distance as she was driven to the airport, off to start a life that wasn't filled with luxury.

And now she was here, letting her anger and bitterness seep through what should be an amazing day. But Tori wasn't going to spend the entire day stewing in it. No, she was going to do something - anything - to pass the time. She practically jumped up from the window seat, grabbing her fur coat from where it had been discarded on the floor and slipping it over her silk negligee. There had to be something to do in this damn town. And so, she flew out the door of her suite, down the seemingly endless flights of stairs and out of the lodge's entrance, her dark hair going every which way.

But before she could continue, she spotted something that made her blood boil even more than it already had been. A man was holding a camera, the lens pointed directly at her. Paparazzi. "Hey!" Tori shouted, storming over to him. "What the hell do you think you're doing? My father paid you bloody idiots off already, didn't you get the memo? Delete the picture, now." Her British accent rang out as she inched closer to him, reaching for the camera. "Give me the camera."

wearing: it's a beautiful day for the end of the world
tags: celestialbody (Lucian)

pantone

®

#004ab5
Victoria Sinclair

coded by weldherwings.

 

[PrincessAveRedfern]

Auriela Grace Hale

Constable Daughter/Wild Child

Location

Hale house

"They mean the world to me"

interactions.

ShellBelles -Roman

A

uriela lay in her bed, cocooned in the warmth of her blankets, reluctant to wake up. Rubbing her eyes, she glanced beside her and let out a soft sigh, feeling the weight of sleep still clinging to her. Turning away from the empty side of the bed, she reached for her phone, squinting at the screen to check the time. It was just about 7 a.m., and a wave of anticipation washed over her as she remembered that Roman, their mother, and grandmother would be arriving soon.

Although she wished she could already be with them, the thought of the day ahead filled her with excitement. Getting out of bed, she stretched lightly, shaking off the remnants of sleep before making her way to the bathroom to get ready. The routine felt comforting, a familiar ritual that she cherished, especially on a day like today.

After what felt like ages, she finally emerged from the bathroom, her hair dry and beautifully curled, framing her face perfectly. She applied her makeup in a smoky red look that added a touch of elegance, enhancing her features while capturing the festive spirit of the day.

Walking to her closet, she scanned through her clothes and settled on one of her favorite burgundy dresses. Slipping it on, she twirled in front of the mirror, admiring how the fabric hugged her curves just right. A smile spread across her face as she checked her reflection, feeling confident and ready for the celebration.

Glancing at the clock once more, she noticed it was almost time for Ro and their family to arrive. The flutter of excitement in her stomach grew stronger, and she could hardly contain her enthusiasm. Today was about togetherness, laughter, and creating cherished memories, and she was more than ready to embrace every moment of it.

 

[celestialbody]

Esme Mensah

E

sme wasn’t even living in the household anymore, and yet, she still felt like the only one trying to hold everything together.
I mean, come on. Who makes just one dish for a major holiday, especially when there’s more than two people coming over?
When Esme first learned that Grayson planned to cook only one dish for the family—and their guest—she knew she couldn’t let that slide. Determined to save the holiday from falling flat, she made plans to arrive a couple of hours earlier than originally planned. She came armed with a couple of premade side dishes, safely packed away in Tupperware bowls, and a few more grocery bags hanging from her arms. With the intent to create a spread that could offer a little more variety, she was ready to cook whatever she could.
She had come prepared for the challenge of balancing the cooking, spending time with her daughter, and trying not to let her anxieties about this being their first family gathering since the divorce get the best of her. But as the day wore on, her frustration began to creep in. She was exhausted, and the weight of it all was starting to show. Though she fought hard to keep her cool, she couldn’t shake the irritation gnawing at her. Why did it feel like she was the only one carrying the load?
This is for Maisel, she reminded herself, forcing a slow breath in and out. Remember, this is for her. Just take a breath and give her one good day...
Her mind replayed the mantra again and again as she worked to prepare the food, setting aside her frustrations and focusing on the smile she hoped Maisel would wear throughout the day.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Esme stood in the kitchen, wiping the flour from her hands as she surveyed her work. It wasn’t perfect, but it was done.

"The last of the food is ready!"

Her voice rang out with a touch of pride. At least this part of the day was finished. She couldn’t help but feel a small surge of satisfaction, though the strain from the day still clung to her shoulders.
She could rest once everything was over, but for now, there was still Maisel—and she’d try to give her the best holiday she could manage.

outfit:

location:

Ex Husbands House

tags:

Grayson travelbypages Julian Lizy Blair

 

[travelbypages]

JACE WALKER

The morning light stabbed through the blinds, waking Jace with a pounding headache and the stale taste of whiskey still on his tongue. He groaned, rubbing his face as the weight of the day hit him. Christmas. For most, it was a time for family, laughter, and love. For Jace, it was just another day—another reminder of how everyone he cared about was gone.
The apartment was cold and quiet, except for the hum of the old fridge in the kitchen. Bottles littered the coffee table and floor, evidence of a solo bender the night before. He’d lost count of how many shots he’d taken to drown out the memories. Whiskey was easier to deal with than the ghosts of Christmases past.
Jace sat up, wincing at the sharp pain in his temples, and reached for his phone. A few notifications blinked on the cracked screen, but he wasn’t in the mood to face the world just yet. He knew Aveline’s name would be there somewhere.
She had a way of getting under his skin like no one else. The daughter of a woman he’d once been foolish enough to get involved with, Aveline had inherited her mother’s sharp tongue and a knack for stirring up trouble. She’d poke at him with snarky texts, show up unannounced, or drop thinly veiled insults that only she could twist into something resembling charm.
And yet, Jace couldn’t quite cut her out of his life. Maybe it was guilt, or maybe it was the way she saw through him—past the bravado, past the broken edges he tried to hide. Whatever it was, he wasn’t in the mood to deal with her today. Not when the weight of the holiday was already pressing down on him.
Scrolling past her messages, his eyes landed on one from Sutton. She’d texted about her truck again, the one he’d been fixing for weeks. The delay wasn’t his fault—the part he needed had been backordered and was taking forever to ship—but that didn’t make him feel any less guilty. Sutton had been patient, far more than he deserved, and every time he thought about the project, it added another layer of frustration.
But Sutton was different. She didn’t nag or complain, just checked in occasionally to see how things were going. Jace appreciated that about her—her calm demeanor, her understanding. She had a way of making him feel like maybe he wasn’t a total screw-up, even when he was sure he was.
He stared at her message for a moment before typing out a reply. “Still waiting on the part, but I can swing by and pick you up. We can talk about it in person.”
After hitting send, Jace hesitated, then added another line. “Grab some food while we’re out? My treat—for the inconvenience.”
It wasn’t much, but it felt like the right thing to do. Sutton was alone for Christmas too, and the least he could do was make the day a little less isolating for both of them.
Dragging himself to his feet, Jace tossed on a jacket and grabbed his keys. The cold air hit him as he stepped outside, a sobering reminder that the world kept turning, even when it felt like it shouldn’t. He slid into his truck and started the engine, the familiar rumble breaking the silence.
As he drove to pick Sutton up, Jace felt a small flicker of something he couldn’t quite name. Maybe it was hope, or maybe it was just the promise of company, even if only for a little while. Whatever it was, it was enough to keep him moving forward, one mile at a time.

Mentions: Sutton - murphalicious (and a little bit of Aveline PrincessAveRedfern )

coded by kaninchen

 

[travelbypages]

ZANE BENNETT

The sun filtered through Zane’s cracked blinds, stirring him awake with a gentle glow. He blinked a few times, groaning as he stretched out across the lumpy couch that doubled as his bed. Another day, another dollar—literally. Zane rolled off the couch and onto his feet, scratching his messy hair with one hand while searching for his lighter with the other.

The apartment was, as usual, a disaster. Empty takeout boxes, mismatched socks, and a collection of half-used lighters cluttered every surface. But Zane didn’t mind. It was home, and it had character, even if that character smelled faintly of old pizza and weed.

Today wasn’t just any day, though. He had a new “client” coming over—a guy named Casper, someone Zane had never met in person but had been texting for... well maybe an hour. Zane figured it wouldn’t hurt to make a decent first impression.

He shuffled into the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face to wake up fully. After brushing his teeth and giving himself a once-over in the mirror, he headed to his tiny closet. Most of his wardrobe teetered between “shabby” and “homeless chic,” but he managed to pull together a semi-decent outfit: a slightly wrinkled bomber jacket, baggy cargos that looked dirty but were definitely passable, and his trusty sneakers that had seen better days. He topped it off with a beanie to hide the chaos of his hair, “Looking good, Zane,” he said to himself with a grin.

With that out of the way, Zane turned his attention to the apartment. Cleaning wasn’t his strong suit, but desperate times called for desperate measures. He kicked a few empty cans under the couch, shoved a pile of clothes into a corner, and lit some incense to mask the lingering smell of… well, his lifestyle. The place wasn’t spotless, but it was passable.

Just as he finished setting out a few snacks—chips, candy, and a box of pizza from last night—there was a knock at the door. Zane’s heart raced for a moment, a mix of excitement and nervousness, “Showtime,” he muttered, plastering on his signature goofy grin. He swung the door open to reveal Casper, a lean guy with sharp features and an air of cautious curiosity. Zane’s grin widened. “Casper! My dude! Come on in,” he said, stepping aside to let him in.

The apartment was dimly lit but cozy in its own way, with a couple of beanbags scattered around and a beat-up coffee table already adorned with a small glass pipe and Zane’s stash. “Make yourself at home,” Zane said, gesturing to the setup. “Figured we’d start things off with a smoke sesh, you know? Break the ice.”

Casper stepped inside, and Zane shut the door behind him, already rambling about how good the pizza still was if you didn’t mind it cold. Today was shaping up to be just the kind of easygoing, weirdly fun day Zane lived for.

Mentions: Casper - Lizy

coded by kaninchen

 

[travelbypages]

AUTUMN BLOOM

Autumn woke to the soft glow of fairy lights strung across the ceiling of her cozy backroom suite, a faint chill in the air reminding her it was the heart of winter. She snuggled deeper into the quilt her grandmother had made years ago, savoring the warmth for a moment longer before the scent of cinnamon incense pulled her from sleep completely.

The room was a little sanctuary tucked behind her crystal shop—a space she’d renovated to stay in during the colder months. It was small but perfect. She stretched lazily, her dark curls spilling over her pillow, and let out a content sigh. Christmas morning didn’t feel much different than any other day to her. Her family had never made a big deal out of the holiday. Growing up, her parents had always believed that quality time wasn’t something you saved for special occasions—it was something you prioritized daily. Still, she enjoyed the peace and coziness of the day, even if it didn’t hold the same magic it did for others.

Sliding out of bed, Autumn padded across the wood floors, her feet finding the thick rug she’d thrifted last fall. She threw on a a loose flannel dress, fleece lined tights, and a huge knit cardigan, the perfect balance of warmth and comfort, and made herself a mug of herbal tea. The shop was already prepared for the day. She’d left the front lights glowing in the window overnight, their soft twinkle welcoming to anyone who might wander in. She was one of the few stores open in town, and while she didn’t expect a rush, she liked the idea of being there for anyone who needed a little light on Christmas.

Autumn took her tea to the counter, savoring the quiet hum of the shop as she checked the displays. Crystals gleamed under soft lighting, their colors reflecting peace and calm. Aromatherapy candles were lined up neatly, each labeled with handwritten tags. The faint scent of lavender and eucalyptus filled the space, blending perfectly with the cinnamon from her backroom.

She glanced out the window, watching the snow fall gently on the quiet street. It was serene, almost dreamlike. She took a sip of her tea and let herself feel grateful for the little things—the warmth of the shop, the glow of the lights, the gentle rhythm of the day.

Just as she set her mug down to rearrange some bracelets on a display, the bell above the door jingled. Autumn turned, her breath catching when she saw who it was. “Rowan?” she said, her voice a mix of surprise and joy. Her friend stood in the doorway, bundled up from the cold. It had been so long since she’d seen her—too long. Autumn practically skipped from behind the counter, pulling her into a tight hug. “You didn’t even tell me you were coming!” she said, her excitement spilling out.

Mentions: Rowan - murphalicious

coded by kaninchen

 

[celestialbody]

Wren Cross

W

ren had woken up early that morning. He always did, but today, he had woken up extra early. He needed the extra time to himself—to just sit in the quiet calm before the family gathering. A moment of peace, just for him. He sipped on his cup of tea, making sure it was just right, and enjoyed the simple act of preparing a quick breakfast of toast. It was a small, quiet ritual that helped him center himself before the whirlwind of the day.
As the minutes ticked by, he took the time to reflect on those who couldn’t be there with them today. It was hard not to think of his parents, who had passed, and the holiday always brought back those bittersweet memories. He sat for a while, lost in thought, before hearing Raven stirring from her room.
When she finally stepped out, looking a little tired and worn from whatever was on her mind, Wren was already there with her coffee—made just the way she liked it, in her favorite mug.

"Morning."

His voice was soft, but his eyes quickly scanned her face, his expression a little more concerned than he intended. She didn’t look like she’d slept well. She seemed drained, and they hadn’t even left yet. He tried not to let the worry show too much, though. Raven was strong—he knew that. She would be okay. He smiled at her warmly, just proud that she was trying. That's all he could want from her.

"Merry Christmas."

Soon enough, they were ready, and together they left the small cabin to head to their grandparents’ home. Wren couldn’t help but feel a twinge of excitement; he loved seeing the two wonderful people who had raised them. They could be a little much at times, especially during the holidays, always fretting over them. But their concern and effort meant the world to him. After all, how could you not feel grateful for family who went out of their way to make you feel loved?
As they approached their grandparents’ familiar home, Wren’s mood shifted slightly. The door was already open, and though he knew this was a good town, a safe neighborhood, he couldn’t help but feel uneasy about leaving the door open or unlocked. It was a risky habit, one he always found unnerving. He shook his head a little as he stepped inside, the warmth of the house immediately embracing him as he slipped past the cold winter air.
As they entered, their grandmother rushed to greet them, pulling them into a tight hug. He was about to comment on the door being open when a head suddenly peeked out from the kitchen, cookie in mouth. He froze for a moment, remembering that Raven had mentioned inviting someone. But he hadn’t expected them to actually show up.

"Oh. Hello there."

He greeted the stranger, his tone polite but curious.

outfit:

location:

Grandparents Home

tags:

Raven travelbypages Hollis

 

[travelbypages]

TALISA SKY

Talisa stirred awake to the faint sound of birds outside her window, their soft chirps cutting through the stillness of the early morning. She blinked against the pale winter light streaming in, her breath visible in the cool air of her bedroom. Wrapping her blanket tighter around herself, she stretched lazily before reaching for her phone on the bedside table.

The screen lit up with a single notification—a message from T’Kaya, "Hey, Tal. Just wanted to let you know I’m doing something important today, so I won’t be able to celebrate Christmas with you. I’ll make it up to you soon, promise. Love you."

Talisa’s heart sank, though she tried not to let the disappointment linger too long. She knew her sister well enough to understand that "something important" likely meant T’Kaya was helping someone in need, putting her selflessness ahead of everything else as usual. It was one of the things Talisa loved most about her sister, even if it stung a little on days like this.

She sighed, tossing her phone onto the bed and staring at the ceiling for a moment. "It’s okay," she whispered to herself. "She’s doing what she does best—caring for people." Pulling herself from bed, Talisa shuffled into the kitchenette, where she started the coffee pot. The rich aroma soon filled the small apartment, warming her mood slightly. She wrapped herself in a cozy cardigan, her mind still lingering on the text, and just as that thought popped into her head, a message from Lawson lit up her screen. After a few exchanges of text, the man whom she had kissed a few weeks ago-- a spontanious kiss, was inviting her over to his house to celebrate Christmas with his family...

As Talisa read through the message again, her smile widened. Lawson's enthusiasm practically leapt off the screen, warming her even in her chilly apartment. She appreciated his knack for turning ordinary moments into something meaningful and festive. Without hesitation, she grabbed her coat and scarf, ready to embrace the invitation.

Talisa arrived at Lawson’s house, taking in the cozy sight before her. The windows glowed with soft, inviting light, and the faint smell of pine drifted from the garland wrapped around the porch railing. When Lawson opened the door, his signature grin greeted her, “Morning!” he said, stepping aside to let her in. His energy was contagious, and Talisa felt her spirits lift as she crossed the threshold.

The warmth of the house was immediate and comforting. The Christmas tree twinkled in the corner of the living room, and the soft crackle of the fireplace added to the serene atmosphere. She shrugged off her coat, shaking off the snowflakes that clung to it, and gave Lawson a quick hug, “Morning,” she replied, her voice filled with genuine warmth. “This is incredible, Lawson. You’ve really gone all out.”

“Alright, let’s get to work,” she said, rolling up her sleeves. As she moved through the morning, mixing, chopping, and taste-testing, Talisa couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging she hadn’t realized she was missing. Lawson’s warmth and humor filled the gaps left by her sister’s absence, and she made a mental note to thank him for salvaging her Christmas.

When the first dish went into the oven, she wiped her hands on a towel and made her way to the living room where he was sat in his lounge chair, "Wow, really showing your age huh?" She teased and took a seat on the couch across from him, almost giddy with thoughts of the moment they shared a few weeks beforehand, “You’re seriously the best,” she said, her voice quieter now but full of sincerity. “I was feeling pretty down this morning, and you just... turned everything around.” She said as a blush crept across her face and neck.

Mentions: Lawson - PrincessAveRedfern

coded by kaninchen

 

[Lizy]

mood :

annoyed, a lil amused

location :

lodge lobby

outfit :

mentions :

elowen

interactions :

t'kaya travelbypages

dunn

;; Brandon

Three more minutes. That's how long Brandon had until he was supposed to be off the clock and out of the lodge. He tried to work all day. He desperately wanted the distraction. But Marcus Winters said he needed to take some time off to enjoy himself and get into the Christmas spirit.

This was truly terrible. It must be karma for sleeping with Elowen. The girl whom he'd been avoiding like the plague since their heated encounter at her penthouse party. That was actually one upside to all this, leaving the lodge meant he was less likely to run into her. Still, Brandon hated Christmas. He used to love it. He really wanted to like it, he enjoyed the idea of people coming together and sharing their warmest moments. But it just reminded him too much of what he had lost.

As he looked down at his watch, checking the time with a slight scowl on his face, he heard a rather cheery voice ringing through the air. Brandon looked up to see a woman, dressed in a ridiculous sweater, saying he looked like he could use some extra cheer. His eyebrows crinkled in concern a little bit, but he gave a small smile, surpassing a laugh. "Oh god, do I actually look that miserable?"

Brandon allowed the repressed laugh to escape his lips, face softening a bit. "Sorry, just... thinking about a lot right now." He was never one for oversharing. Or, sharing much at all really. He had always been a rather closed off person. So, naturally, he shifted the conversation away from himself.

"Is the coffee really that bad?" He asked, stepping out from behind his desk and towards the coffee pot. "You see, I said we should spring for the good stuff, but since it's complementary..." Brandon poured himself a cup and trailed off as he took a sip. His nose scrunched slightly as he swallowed. "Yeah, that's pretty bad. I'll make sure we get the good stuff next time."

coded by reveriee.

 

[travelbypages]

CALLA CARLTON

Calla stood near the counter, her heart racing as she fiddled nervously with the strap of her bag. The café buzzed with life around her—the clinking of cups, the hum of conversation, and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air—but she felt isolated, like an observer in a vibrant world that didn’t quite include her. She glanced down at her phone, squinting at the small map displayed on the screen. The Lodge was supposed to be nearby, yet every direction seemed to lead her deeper into confusion.

Determined not to let her nerves get the best of her, she took a deep breath, trying to shake off the feeling of being out of place. The sounds of laughter and the rich smell of coffee were comforting, yet they amplified her anxiety. As she scanned the room, her gaze landed on two young men sitting at a table by the window. One was tall with buzzed hair, exuding a casual confidence that made her heart flutter and the other was slightly shorter, leaning back with a playful smirk that made him look effortlessly charming.

There was something magnetic about the tall one—Finn, she’d overheard someone call him—that drew her attention like a moth to a flame. She felt a rush of warmth on her cheeks as she took a tentative step forward, her stomach twisting in anticipation. Calla’s palms felt clammy, and she silently cursed her inability to speak English fluently. What if she messed up?

As she approached them, the lively chatter around her faded into the background. She focused solely on Finn, her heart pounding in her chest, each beat echoing in her ears. She could feel her throat tightening as she prepared to ask for directions to The Lodge, her mind racing with thoughts of what to say.

The moment Finn looked up, their eyes met, and the world around her seemed to blur into insignificance. His expression shifted from surprise to curiosity, and she felt a spark of something unnamable ignite within her. She hesitated, feeling self-conscious under their gaze, but her need to find The Lodge overcame her shyness. With a deep breath, she summoned every ounce of courage she had. “E-Excuse me,” she began, her voice a touch shaky as her Spanish accent lilted through her words. “Do you know where Lodge is?”

As Finn replied, his voice warm and inviting, Calla felt a rush of relief wash over her. The way he spoke made her feel seen, a comforting presence in a world that often felt overwhelming. She nodded along, trying to focus on his words, but her attention kept drifting back to the way his lips curled into a smile.

It was then that she noticed the teasing smirk on his friend’s face, which made her cheeks heat even more. She could feel the weight of their attention on her, and a mix of excitement and anxiety bubbled up inside her. Would he think she was silly for asking? Would he find her accent charming or irritating? Just as she was about to thank him and walk away, she felt a sudden burst of confidence. Maybe this was her chance to spend a little more time with him. “Maybe… you could walk me to Lodge?” The words slipped out before she could second-guess herself, and she immediately held her breath, waiting for his reaction.

The corners of Finn’s mouth twitched, and she held her gaze steady, her heart racing in anticipation. As she stood there, her nerves danced in a whirlwind of excitement and fear. Whatever the outcome, this moment was the first thing that has pushed thoughts of finding her dad to the back of her mind since the moment she received her DNA results.

Mentions: Finn - PotatochipsRlit

coded by kaninchen

 

[PotatochipsRlit]

mood :

Annoyed, mischevious.

location :

Upstairs of Redfern Autoshop

outfit :

mentions :

interactions :

PrincessAveRedfern - Kennedy

Mckdowell

Bryson

Bryson lingered in a daze, fatigue etched across his features as she sprang from the bed with an infectious sense of exuberance, leaving him to battle against the clutches of lethargy...

"Ugh…well.. y'knoww.. i need atleastt.. an hour to actually get up.." he grumbled, his brow knitting together in mild discontent. "You’ve got to share some of that energy with me." He tousled his hair in exasperation, aware that a brisk splash of cold water would likely rejuvenate him, yet even that concept felt overwhelmingly daunting.

All he wished for was to cocoon himself back under the covers and drift off into slumber's embrace once more... "Naps, huh?" he mused, a cheeky smile creeping across his face as he scooted to the edge of the bed... "Now, that’s a tempting proposition." Finally rising, he stretched his stiff limbs and cast a glance downward, watching her as she positioned herself before him, her fingers intertwining with his as he offered a gentle squeeze in return.

He pondered her suggestion of choosing his outfit, raising her hand to his lips and bestowing a soft kiss upon it, a hint of mischief sparkling in his eyes... "Just promise me it isn’t something ghastly, like an ugly Christmas sweater.." he chuckled, his gaze locking with hers, the look in her eyes suggested it was..something along those lines..
"Those things drive me crazyy.. they itch the crap outta me.." The moment her lips brushed against his in a tender kiss, he felt himself soften, but she pulled away too soon, leaving him groaning softly in protest...
"Alright, alright, you little firecracker, I get it, no need to be so adamant," he quipped as he shuffled toward the bathroom, dragging his feet heavily behind him. Entering the small tiled space, he released a quiet groan, fatefully discovering an ugly Christmas sweater stared back at him from the hanger.

"Kennedy! You’re really killing me here!" he called out, his voice reverberating through the walls, frustration clear in his tone as he lifted the offending garment with distaste. .."Oh, god..that's just..foul.." peeking out to see her in normal clothes sent a spark of indignation through him...

"Hey! That’s not fair!" he fumed, eyebrows slanting down in displeasure. With a reluctant sigh, he peeled off his shirt and slipped into the sweater...A chill ran through Bryson as the coarse fibers of the sweater brushed against his skin, a sensation that was both irritating and oddly amusing. He emerged from the bathroom, casting a disdainful glance in her direction, his expression a mix of annoyance and playful accusation.

"Oh, you did this on purpose, didn’t you..?.." he remarked, catching her gaze and letting out a bemused scoff.
"Funny." With a dramatic flourish, he flailed his arms, showcasing the hideous garment that clung to him like a second skin, before spinning around to emphasize its ridiculousness.. his face stoic despite the cute little sweater he had on.
"Well, it just so happens that I picked one out for you too... Who would have thought a tiny town could house a shop dedicated to Christmas sweaters?" He shot her a sidelong glance, a mischievous grin spreading across his face as he bent down to retrieve a box from the floor.

Standing tall, he thrust the package into her arms with a playful insistence. "And don’t even think about refusing it.. there’s a strict no-return policy, and I splurged eighty bucks on this monstrosity." Rubbing the back of his neck, he marveled at his own absurdity..spending so much just to see Kennedy don a ridiculous sweater...

coded by reveriee.

 

[Lizy]

mood :

OH FUCK

location :

shops

outfit :

mentions :

blair

interactions :

ophelia celestialbody

McKay

;; Soren

This was Soren's first Christmas alone in a few years. He didn't mind it. He'd spent a few years of college spending Christmas alone, stuck in his dorm with no home to go back to, while all his friends visited their families. It sounded kind of sad, but to him it felt peaceful. Soren was always craving moments alone, and holidays where everyone was busy with their families was the perfect time to get those moments in.

Of course, now he was alone more often than not. In a town where he barely knew anyone, he spent his days lounging in the lodge or seeing the sights around town. Alone. The most substantial interaction he had had was on his first day in Revelstoke, with the nice officer who gave him a ride to the lodge when his car had broken down. is mind kept drifting back to Officer Rosewood and how kind the man had been to him, deep down he hoped he'd run into the officer again one day.

It was rare that he longed for a connection to something, but right now Soren was feeling a bit bad that he didn't really make any friends in town. Spending Christmas a lone was starting to make him think a lot, reflect on things he'd prefer to leave in the past. So, he decided to go out and do some shopping. A little retail therapy tended to lift his spirits ever so slightly.

He stopped into a couple stores in town, eventually buying a couple pieces of jewelry for himself. Soren enjoyed the action of shopping, but didn't tend to go overboard when it came to actual purchasing. Perhaps it was the few years of barely being able to make rent, but he tended to be pretty careful with his spending habits.

Eventually, he found himself gazing at the window of a clothing store when he heard a voice calling his name cut through the air. He jumped, startled by the suddenness of it all. The voice sounded familiar, on instinct he turned his head to see Ophelia Devereux rushing towards him. His heart pounded in his chest as he turned back to the window, thinking of what to do next, but time moved all to fast and he couldn't come up with a coherent plan.

As she called his name again, he did the first thing that came to his head. "Who?" He asked, blinking a couple times in a panic. Soren cursed himself for this idiotic plan. Pretending like he wasn't himself? That would never work. He felt awful, truly. Ophelia was one of the people he simply up and ghosted without a single text message, but he wasn't quite ready to discuss why he did what he did.

"I- uh- sorry," He stammered out, shaking his head. "I don't know why I did that. Of course I'm Soren." Soren took a breath, trying to put a smile on his face as best he could. He coughed lightly, clearing out his throat, which felt like it was closing up from his nerves. "Uh- how are you? What- what are you doing all the way up here?"

coded by reveriee.

 

[PotatochipsRlit]

Finn Erickson

• .
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  mood

  
  
  
  

  In awe, surprised
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
• 
  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  

  
  
  

  outfit

  
  
  
  

  Compression shirt with snowboard pants.
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
  

  
  
  

  location

  
  
  
  

  Cafe
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  interactions

  
  
  
  

  travelbypages - Calla
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

As Finn and Forrest delved deeper into their animated discussion about snowboarding and the adventures awaiting them that day, Forrest's attention was suddenly drawn skyward.
His heartbeat quickened as his eyes landed on a familiar figure approaching... Wasn’t that the girl Finn had been stealing glances at? ...The thought sent a jolt through him, and a smirk of disbelief and amusement crossed his features.. caught somewhere between his excitement and curiosity...

Finn, sensing his brother's shift in focus, turned to see what had captured Forrest's gaze. There she was..the very same enchanting girl who had captivated his interest earlier, now walking straight towards them... But was she headed for him or for Forrest? ..Just then, as he brought his coffee to his lips, he burned his tongue, a sharp hiss escaping him momentarily breaking his concentration... "Shit.!" he snapped, the cup slipping from his grasp and splattering hot coffee across his snowboard pants.

Moving in a flurry, he was relieved for the layers of his thick pants, yet his eyes remained fixated on the girl that had walked up to them.. why..?
She broke the silence, inquiring the way to the lodge, and it just so happened that finn and forrest were jus there..
His mind scrambled to register her words.."Y-yeah... I do, actually," he stammered, caught off guard by his own breathlessness, not quite wanting to reveal the panic bubbling inside him.
Just as he was about to give her a vague set of directions, she asked if he would walk her there, and Finn's eyes widened with surprise, his throat tightening as he fought to dispel the wave of nerves washing over him... "Wait.."

"You don’t even know me, stranger," he quipped with a hint of bravado, his smirk returning, a familiar charm that had drawn many hearts before.... "Finn’s the name," he introduced, extending his hand for a shake, all while drinking in her beauty... Her presence almost felt like magic..a quintessential beauty capable of stopping anyone in their tracks.

Finn's gaze drifted from her striking features down to the curves of her figure, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth as he silently chuckled to himself.
She was... undeniably stunning, and that rich, melodic accent..was it Spanish?..only added to her allure, making her stand out in a crowd.
He observed her with keen interest as she tentatively reached for his hand, their fingers intertwining in a handshake that sent a curious chill through him.. her hands were surprisingly cool yet delightfully soft.

For a fleeting moment, he found himself holding on a fraction longer than necessary, savoring the warmth of their hands melding together.. "I’d be more than happy to walk you though.." he said, his voice smooth and confident, "Just.. think we should have introduced ourselves first, don’t you?..But hey.. I admire your ambition." With a charming grin, he focused entirely on her, barely registering Forrest's presence lingering behind him, his attention captivated solely by the enchanting woman before him...

HERE

HERE

♡coded by uxie♡

 

[Lizy]

mood :

nervous

location :

redfern auto shop

outfit :

mentions :

n/a

interactions :

Anthony PrincessAveRedfern

Sullivan

;; Brittain

The approaching holiday felt bittersweet to Brittain. It was a bit sad, she knew she'd be spending Christmas alone. A bit of a stressful reminder that she had left pretty much her whole life behind, she was starting fresh. But, that idea brought her a bit of hope. She was starting fresh, getting a new beginning. Recalling her last few Christmases, she knew she could honestly do better on her own. In the past her ex, Jeff, would always get mad at her about something and start a big fight. At least alone Brittain could enjoy herself in peace.

Christmas had always been her favorite holiday. Growing up with her mom, they never had much, but her mother always tried to make the day special. What was truly special to Brittain was the time she got to spend with her mom. Now that she was gone, Brittain treasured those memories and wouldn't trade them for anything else.

Brittain never got many gifts on Christmas. Some years were better than others, and her mother always managed to find something, but one thing she could always count on was a bag of jelly beans on Christmas Eve. It was silly, but it had become a tradition of sorts. A nice sweet treat to enjoy over the holiday. Brittain had continued the tradition even after her mom had passed away, getting herself a bag of jelly beans on Christmas Eve as a little treat.

That's how she found herself running around Revelstoke on Christmas Eve, searching for somewhere that carried jelly beans. Going to four different stores and not just settling on something else when she couldn't find the candy probably seemed ridiculous, but it was quite important to her. Eventually, she ended up outside of a little auto shop and convenience store. She'd seen that the store sold some food and snacks, so she thought that they might have what she was looking for.

As Brittain stepped inside, she heard the welcoming jingle of a bell and the cashier's voice welcoming her. "Hi," she greeted with a smile on her face. She hesitated for a moment as she locked eyes with the man, she felt drawn to his comforting energy. The original plan was to just look around for the jelly beans, no help needed, but now she was worried she had been looking at him for too long to not say anything else to him.

"Um- this probably sounds so silly. I promise I'm not crazy. Do you carry jelly beans? It is totally fine if you don't, no worries at all!" Brittain sounded warm and kind, but slightly nervous as she spoke. Her people pleasing tendencies shown through as she set up the potential of him saying they didn't carry the candy. But, seeing a variety of snacks scattered about, even just at the front of the store, she felt hopeful.

coded by reveriee.

 

[PrincessAveRedfern]

Mason Redfern

Auto Shop Owner

Location

Festival of Lights

"Here we go.."

interactions.

murphalicious -Darcy

M

ason stood on the hill beside his house on Christmas Eve, once again spending time with Darcy and her children. It was a bittersweet moment; he felt a pang of concern not for the kids, but for Darcy herself. He recalled the last time they had seen each other, when she had fallen and injured her head in less than a minute—how clumsy she could be, he thought with a mix of affection and worry.

As he watched the kids gleefully sliding down the hill, a smile crept onto his face. It had been a while since he’d seen children playing there, especially since Kennedy had decided she was too old to listen to him when she turned 13. Yet, here he was, clad in his Christmas sweater—a cherished Redfern family tradition—sharing the evening with Darcy and her kids.

The phrase "the elephant in the room" seemed fitting; it felt more like an elephant looming wherever he went, or perhaps the skeletons hidden behind him. He struggled with how to begin a conversation with the woman he had loved since the moment they met—the same woman who had once been involved with his brother Asher, the one who had left her and their children behind. It pained him to think about how his brother had abandoned such a remarkable person, and how Darcy had walked away after revealing the truth to the family.

 

[travelbypages]

HANNA KHUMALO

Hanna stirred awake, the scent of warm toast and eggs drawing her from the cocoon of sleep. Blinking against the soft morning light filtering through the blinds, she turned her head to find Hades standing in the doorway with a tray in hand, his face lit up with a mix of pride and anticipation. Her heart fluttered, caught off guard by the effort he’d put into making this morning special. She propped herself up on her elbows, a lazy smile tugging at her lips as he approached.

Since moving to Canada from South Africa, Hanna had prided herself on keeping things simple, especially when it came to relationships. Casual was safe—no messy emotions, no heartbreak, just a steady rhythm she could control. A friends-with-benefits arrangement with someone like Hades had seemed perfect at first: no expectations, no strings. But somewhere along the way, her resolve had started to crumble. As she watched him climb into bed, placing the tray carefully between them, her chest tightened with a feeling she’d tried to ignore for weeks. He looked so at ease, teasing her with a bite of toast, his dark eyes sparkling with warmth. She laughed softly, taking the offered bite but feeling her heart ache at the same time. She had caught feelings, and there was no denying it anymore.

Christmas had never been much to her growing up—just another day marked by absence and indifference. Her family didn’t celebrate it, and she’d learned to stop hoping for magic or joy on a day that always felt empty. But here, with Hades looking at her like she mattered, bringing her breakfast in bed and planning something he promised would be special, it felt like the kind of Christmas she’d always wanted but never dared to imagine.

She sipped the mango juice, its sweetness contrasting with the bittersweet emotions swirling inside her. She wanted to tell him how much this morning meant, how much he meant, but fear held her back. Hades seemed so comfortable in their casual arrangement, and she didn’t want to ruin what they had by complicating things with her feelings. Still, as he settled beside her, close enough that their shoulders touched, she couldn’t help but wonder if he felt it too—the way the air seemed charged between them, heavier than it had been before. Hanna glanced at the tray, pretending to focus on the food, but her mind raced. Maybe today could be about more than just breakfast and casual companionship. Maybe, just maybe, it could be the start of something she hadn’t dared to hope for, "So what do you have planned?"

Mentions: Hades - PrincessAveRedfern

coded by kaninchen

 

[PrincessAveRedfern]

Kennedy Redfern

Auto Shop Co-Owner

Location

Penthouse Party

"He's kind of cute"

interactions.

PotatochipsRlit -Bryson

K

ennedy chuckled the entire time he was in the bathroom, his laughter echoing off the walls as he complained about the ridiculousness of the situation. When he finally walked back out, donning the ugly sweater, she could hardly contain herself. She burst into genuine laughter, clutching her stomach as she doubled over.

“It’s even better than I imagined!”

she gasped between fits of giggles, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Once she managed to regain her composure, she looked at him with a playful smirk, but her expression shifted when he mentioned he had a sweater for her as well. She couldn't help but roll her eyes.

What’s wrong with me? This is supposed to be my ugly sweater shirt,

she thought, a mix of exasperation and amusement swirling within her. Yet, deep down, she felt a warmth at the idea that he had spent so much time and effort to get her something special. It must have meant something significant.

With a casual disregard for the fact that he was still in the room, she decided to embrace the spirit of the occasion. She pulled her current sweater off over her head, not caring if he was watching. As she slipped into the one he had given her, she was surprised by how much longer it was than she had anticipated—and likely longer than he had intended as well. It draped over her in a way that felt almost cozy, and, without thinking twice, she wiggled her way out of her snug red pants, transforming his gift into an impromptu dress.

“Ta-da!”

she exclaimed with a dramatic twirl, her laughter bubbling to the surface again. The sweater swirled around her, its colors vibrant against her skin. She felt a rush of confidence, reveling in the playful atmosphere they had created.

Once she finished showcasing her new outfit, she took a step closer to him, her heart racing as she looked up into his eyes. The playful banter had shifted into something more charged, and she could feel the energy between them crackling.

“Game on,”

she whispered, her voice low and teasing, as she bit her lip and flashed him a mischievous smirk. In that moment, it was clear that the spirit of competition, mixed with a hint of flirtation, had ignited a spark that neither of them could ignore.

 

[travelbypages]

ELLIOT BROOKS

Elliot’s heart skipped a beat as he bumped into Héctor, nearly dropping the tray of leftover pastries he’d been carrying back to the cafe. His face immediately flushed a deep shade of red when he looked up to meet Héctor’s gaze, which was, of course, paired with that teasing smirk that always seemed to make Elliot lose his train of thought, “Oh, uh—H-Héctor! Hi!” Elliot stammered, shifting nervously on his feet. He tried to steady the tray, but his hands were slightly shaky. “I didn’t, uh, mean to—sorry! I didn’t see you there, I—I mean, of course I saw you, I just wasn’t—uh—looking... I guess?”

The words tumbled out in a flustered mess, and Elliot immediately wanted to sink into the floor. Realizing what he’d just said, he glanced up at Héctor with wide eyes, the faintest panic setting in. He wasn’t supposed to know the names of the guests. That was against policy unless it came up in conversation, and Héctor had never formally introduced himself. Yet, since Héctor’s arrival, Elliot had found himself inexplicably drawn to him, remembering his name from the room bookings and feeling a small thrill whenever he saw him walk into the cafe.
He stole another glance at the shopping bags Héctor was carrying, grateful for the brief distraction. “You’ve been, uh... shopping?” he asked, his voice soft as his eyes darted between Héctor’s bags and his face. “Looks like you got... um, a lot. Oh, but that’s not a bad thing! I mean, it’s Christmas, so you should, you know, treat yourself.”

Elliot realized he was rambling and clamped his mouth shut, shifting his tray awkwardly in his hands. His mind raced, trying to think of something to say that didn’t make him sound like a complete fool, “I didn’t think, um, I’d see you around today,” he finally managed, his voice barely above a whisper. “Most people are... you know, with family or... someone special.”
As soon as the words left his mouth, Elliot cringed internally, worried he’d overstepped. His cheeks burned, and he looked down, his messy hair falling into his face. He was acutely aware of how tired he probably looked—still in his cafe uniform, his hair slightly mussed from rushing around all day. Meanwhile, Héctor stood there, effortlessly composed and ridiculously attractive, as usual.

“I—I should probably, uh, get back to work,” Elliot mumbled, clutching the tray tighter. He hesitated, though, feeling a pang of regret at the thought of walking away. Since Héctor’s arrival, Elliot couldn’t help but notice everything about him—the confidence in his stride, the way his smile seemed to light up a room, and how he always carried himself like he belonged wherever he was. It was maddening, really, how much space Héctor had taken up in his mind. Still, Elliot started to turn away, fully expecting Héctor to tease him about the encounter—or worse, let him walk away entirely. A part of him wished Héctor would stop him, even just for a moment longer, because despite how flustered he felt, he couldn’t help but crave the attention.

Mentions: Héctor - ShellBelles

coded by kaninchen

 

[PrincessAveRedfern]

Joon Felix Choi

Snowboarding Rep/Photographer

Location

kwangya

"Something seems off with her"

interactions.

celestialbody -Natalia

F

elix had been wrapped up in a phone call with one of his coworkers, who was venting about how Joon had been selected to go to Revelstoke for the fifth year in a row. The annoyance in his colleague's voice was unmistakable, and Joon, sensing that this conversation was going nowhere fast, decided to hang up. He rolled his eyes at the thought of being the go-to guy for this assignment yet again, but deep down, he couldn’t help but feel a little proud of being so indispensable. As he turned to head toward his room, he was pleasantly surprised to find himself face-to-face with none other than Natalia.

She stood there, her usual spark of confidence slightly dimmed as she fumbled with her words, clearly trying to muster the courage to engage him. Joon couldn’t resist a playful smirk.

“I remember who you are; I’m not that mean,”

he said, raising an eyebrow with a hint of cockiness, trying to ease her tension. He noticed that she was dressed in a softer pastel pink today, a stark contrast to the bright neon colors she had sported the last time they met. The change suited her, giving off a more approachable vibe while still accentuating her vibrant personality.

Running a hand through his hair—a habit he had when he was trying to look effortlessly cool—he leaned against the railing of the stairs.

“So, how have you been, Natalia?”

he asked, genuine curiosity lacing his tone. He recalled their last encounter a few months ago in another state where they had collaborated on a project. Natalia had mentioned her passion for travel blogging, and he had enjoyed hearing her stories about exploring new places and meeting interesting people along the way.

Joon remembered how easy it had been to connect with her. There was something refreshing about Natalia; she had a way of bringing out the best in people. He found himself thinking about the moments they shared—the spontaneous adventures they embarked on and the candid conversations that felt like an escape from the pressures of their careers.

He leaned in slightly, intrigued by her presence and eager to catch up.

“I was just thinking about that project we worked on together. It was chaotic, but I think we managed to pull it off in the end. I mean, it’s not every day you get to work with someone as talented as me,”

he teased, a playful glint in his eyes. He chuckled, recalling how they had both been thrown into the deep end, scrambling to make sense of the whirlwind of ideas.

As he awaited her response, he felt a sense of anticipation bubbling within him. Natalia was one of those people who truly stood out to him—not just because of her bold fashion choices but because of her vibrant personality and adventurous spirit. He remembered her travel blogging—how she captured the essence of each destination with her words and images, making people feel as if they were right there with her.

“Are you still traveling and creating content for your blog?”

he asked, genuinely interested but with that trademark cocky edge.

“I remember you mentioning a few exciting trips you had planned. I’d love to hear more about your adventures! Just make sure to include how amazing I was to work with,”

he added with a wink. His eyes sparkled with interest, hoping to draw her out of her shell and into a lively conversation that would rekindle the connection they had shared. The thought of hearing about her latest travels only added to his eagerness, as he knew her stories would be filled with inspiration and wonder, just like her passion for exploring the world.

 

[PrincessAveRedfern]

Lawson Blake Hale

Constable

Location

Hale House

"I don't know if I want to kiss her or keep this casual"

interactions.

travelbypages -Talisa

L

awson Lawson was comfortably settled in his chair, immersed in the warmth of the room as Talisa busied herself in the kitchen, the sounds of sizzling and chopping filling the air. He hadn't noticed how much time had passed until she walked into the living room, a playful glint in her eyes.

"Wow, really showing your age, huh?"

she teased, a smirk dancing on her lips. He rolled his eyes, a chuckle escaping him.

"Hey, everyone deserves a comfy chair they can call their own,"

he shot back, looking over to her. As he did, he noticed the way she looked in that moment—her hair slightly tousled, a light dusting of flour on her cheek, and that peaceful expression that made her seem almost ethereal. It was a sight that made his heart flutter unexpectedly.

He heard Aurie heading to her bathroom, and the sound brought him back to the moment. Shaking his head softly at the domesticity surrounding them, he got up from his chair and walked over to Talisa, taking a seat next to her on the couch.

"I know this wasn't the Christmas you were expecting,"

he said, his voice softening,

"but I'm glad you get to celebrate nonetheless."

He leaned back on the couch, his gaze drifting toward the fireplace. The flickering flames cast a warm glow across the room, enhancing the cozy atmosphere. The smell of the food she was cooking wafted into the living room, and Lawson inhaled deeply, the aroma wrapping around him like a comforting blanket. It was like heaven in the air, and he couldn't help but feel a wave of gratitude wash over him. Man, he was glad to have someone else cooking for once.

As they sat together, he felt an undeniable gravitational pull toward her, an attraction that had been building quietly but surely. There was something about her presence that drew him in, making the world outside fade away. He glanced at her, taking in the way her eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief and warmth.

"You know,"

he began, a teasing tone creeping into his voice,

"if this cooking thing doesn't work out for you, you could always consider a career in making people feel good about themselves."

He smiled, hoping to lighten the mood and bring back that playful banter. But deep down, he recognized that there was something more profound in the air between them—a connection that felt like it was teetering on the edge, waiting for the right moment to leap into something deeper.

 

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RAVEN CROSS

There stood Hollis, leaning casually against the doorframe, a cookie in hand. The sight made Raven’s breath hitch, and for a moment, she forgot how cold she’d been moments ago. Hollis looked effortlessly comfortable, her posture easy and relaxed, the soft glow of the Christmas lights catching in her hair. Raven felt an unfamiliar flutter in her chest, the kind she hadn’t allowed herself to feel in a long time. She lingered in the entryway for a beat too long, her gaze following Hollis’s every movement before finally shaking herself free of the trance.

Raven hung up her scarf and tried to compose herself. Hollis being here was her own doing, but the reality of it—the closeness, the ease with which Hollis fit into her world—was suddenly overwhelming. She exchanged a quick greeting with her grandparents, her responses automatic and distracted, her focus slipping back to Hollis every chance she got. As Wren passed by her in the hallway, Raven gave his shoulder a squeeze, her lips quirking into a small smile. It was her silent way of grounding herself, a moment of connection with her brother before her thoughts drifted back to Hollis. Her feet carried her toward the kitchen, a smile on her lips from Hollis' teasing. Hollis hadn’t moved, still leaning against the counter, and Raven felt her heart stutter at how effortlessly beautiful she looked. There was a charm in the way Hollis carried herself, so unbothered, so completely at ease, that Raven couldn’t help but be drawn in.

“Hey,” Raven said softly as she stepped into the kitchen, bumping her shoulder against the other girls, “You made it.” Hollis turned slightly to face her, and Raven’s cheeks burned under the weight of her gaze. “Did my grandparents force-feed you those? I'm surprised you haven't been turned into the Christmas Goodies Monster yet.” she asked teased, trying to hide the nervous edge in her voice. Raven grabbed a mug from the counter, fiddling with it to keep her hands busy. “I know they can be a little… overwhelming,” she continued, glancing up at Hollis briefly before looking back at the mug. “But I promise they mean well. They’re just excited to have someone new here. It’s been a while since we’ve had company for Christmas.”

She paused, the words tumbling out before she could stop herself. “I’m glad you came, though.” Her voice softened at the end, and she dared another glance at Hollis, her heart skipping when their eyes met. Raven shifted her weight, forcing herself to keep the conversation going, anything to keep Hollis from noticing how flustered she felt. “Did you get here okay? No trouble finding the place?” she asked, leaning against the counter across from her, trying to project a calm she didn’t feel. Normally she was easy-going, excitable. But the weight of the holiday mixed with her intense hangover, her demeanor was slightly different.

The space between them felt charged, every small gesture and glance carrying a weight that made Raven’s pulse quicken. She gave a soft laugh, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “I hope Wren didn’t scare you off when we got here. He’s not always that intense, I swear.” Raven’s gaze lingered on Hollis, her heart pounding in her chest. Every word felt heavy with meaning, every second stretching out as she tried to navigate the overwhelming mix of emotions swirling inside her. For now, though, she let herself enjoy the moment—the quiet, the warmth, and the closeness of Hollis standing just a few feet away.

Mentions: Hollis and Wren - celestialbody

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GRAYSON HOLT

Grayson woke to the faint light filtering through the curtains, the soft, muffled sound of his brother snoring on the couch nearby. It was a sound he had grown accustomed to, a constant reminder of how far they had both fallen. He rubbed his eyes, squinting against the early morning light, and felt the familiar ache of a headache pulsing at his temples from his regular migraines. Before making his way to the delicious smelling kitchen, the man hopped into the quickest shower ever, dressed, and spritzed a little bit of cologne that Esme had boughten them one Christmas. Upon entering the living room, he noticed his brother on the couch, likely still drunk from the night before, sprawled awkwardly, and oblivious to the world around him. Grayson felt like a zombie, a mere shell of the person he used to be.

It had been a long time since he felt alive, and though he’d cut back on drinking and using substances to cope, the shadows of his past lingered, haunting him like restless ghosts. The death of his parents when he was just a boy had thrust a burden upon him that no one should have to bear at such a young age. He’d had to raise his brother, a task that felt insurmountable at times. Then came the whirlwind of fatherhood when he married Esme, only for that to collapse into divorce. Now, he was left with the jagged pieces of a life that felt like a constant struggle.

His daughter, Maisel, was acting out against him, and the weight of their strained relationship added to the stresses he carried. Each day was a battle against the tide, and he often found himself wondering if he could ever get back to shore. Esme wasn’t even living in the household anymore, and yet, she still felt like the only one trying to hold everything together. He could almost hear her voice in his head, reminding him of the holidays they used to spend as a family, the laughter and joy that seemed so distant now. He recalled how she would have looked at him incredulously when she learned he planned to cook only one dish for their small gathering, not that he was a good cook in general. He'd always been the one in charge of the turkey when they were a 'happy' family still.

He could picture her setting to work in the kitchen, juggling cooking, spending time with Maisel, and managing her own anxieties about their first family gathering since the divorce. As the day wore on, he sensed her frustration creeping in, and he couldn’t help but share in her exhaustion, even from a distance. Why did it feel like he was the only one not carrying his weight?
“This is for Maisel,” he reminded himself, forcing a slow breath in and out. “Just take a breath and give her one good day…” Grayson closed his eyes, trying to shake off the feelings of inadequacy as he replayed her mantra in his mind. Finally, he ventured into the kitchen, where the smell of baked goods lingered, mingling with the remnants of holiday chaos. He found Esme standing there, wiping flour from her hands, surveying her work.

He took a moment to appreciate the spread, a mixture of scents and colors that made the kitchen feel warm and inviting. It was not perfect, but it was an effort, and he couldn’t help but feel a small surge of satisfaction at the sight of it. "Looks good," he said, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. He felt a pang of regret as he thought of the distance that had grown between them. “You always did know how to save a holiday.” He rubbed the back of his neck, the familiar bitterness creeping in. He wished things were different, that he could be the one to make everything right for their daughter. He sighed, letting the weight of his thoughts settle for a moment before he resolved to push forward.

Before he could dwell on the conversation any longer, he walked over to his brother and nudged him with his foot. “Hey, wake up! You can't just sleep on the couch all day while there's guests.” He couldn't help but feel some disappointment in himself, seeing the way his brother chose to cope with life. Grayson wasn't the best role model to raise the young man, but he'd done his best that his age at the time he'd taken custody of Julian would permit. He'd been a kid raising a kid until Esme came into the picture, "get up and I'll grab you a coffee."

Mentions: Julian - Lizy and Esme - celestialbody

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