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




Forrest Erickson





































  • mood



    Willing.
















Forrest cast a sideways glance at Emara, his brow knitting together in confusion as he tried to decipher her words.
"So, you thought it was a good idea to bring this home just because a therapist owned it? That's quite the perspective," he remarked, his eyebrows raising in mild surprise.

He struggled to understand how her comment connected to the conversation he was eager to have, though he didn't intend to sound so confrontational; his emotions were simply getting the better of him.
As he listened intently to her elaborate on her thoughts, his gaze remained fixed on her, while his mind wandered around the house, mentally aligning it with what he imagined her living space would look like..neat, inviting, and devoid of chaos, just as he had envisioned.
Processing her skepticism about how he had located her, he swiftly pulled out his phone, revealing her contact information with a casual flick of his thumb. "You’re not exactly hard to track down, Emara Linchette. Being a therapist means you have to maintain a public presence," he stated, his eyes shifting from the screen back to her, his expression shifting to one of clarity.

"It’s the same for me; if someone looks me up, they’ll find that I offer personal training sessions. You provide therapy to those in need, so it’s only natural that people can find you easily, just as I did." With a resigned sigh, he turned off his phone, feeling the need to clarify that he wasn’t a stalker, but rather someone genuinely intrigued by her.

He mulled over her words, nodding slowly as he processed her thoughts. "I understand where you’re coming from," he said, his hands coming together, thumbs brushing over his knuckles in a thoughtful gesture...
"I never intended to pursue anything..with you," he continued, raising his gaze to meet hers, his eyes narrowing slightly as he spoke...
"You fascinate me, Emara. You’d think therapists would keep things strictly professional, right?" His question lingered in the air, not just in his words but also in the intensity of his gaze..

"And while you certainly maintained your professionalism, I can’t help but feel there was something more. Am I wrong in thinking you enjoyed my company as much as I enjoyed yours?" His gaze narrowed even more.. which seemed to pierce through the layers of her carefully constructed persona. He could sense the walls she had built around herself, fortified by years of training and experience, yet there was something undeniably magnetic about her... he contemplated her words about professionalism.. about him understanding thos boundaries.. in which he did.. sort of.

Forrest felt a pang of empathy for her struggle. "Boundaries are important, I get that," he said, his voice earnest. "But sometimes, they can also keep us from experiencing genuine connections... I’m not here to push you into anything you’re not ready for, but I can’t help but feel there’s something worth exploring between us."
Forrest caught the subtle flicker of uncertainty in her eyes, a delicate dance of emotions that pulled him closer, like a moth drawn to a flame... He sensed the cracks forming in her composure, the way her voice trembled as she spoke, and how her gaze darted away, betraying her inner turmoil...

"Emara, I'm not your patient anymore; you can speak your truth to me," he declared, rising from his chair and moving to sit beside her, maintaining a respectful distance yet close enough to observe the nuances of her expression..—the slight furrow of her brow, the way her lips pressed together as if holding back a flood of emotions..
"You don’t have to be my support alone; I’m here for you too," he continued, his eyes steady and sincere, radiating a warmth that dispelled any lingering doubt. "I understand how vital your boundaries are. If you need to tell me to walk away, to say there was never anything between us, I will respect that." He nodded slowly, reinforcing his commitment to her wishes, but deep down, a persistent hope lingered; even if she pushed him away, he knew he would find his way back to her, for he was determined yet gentle, never one to force someone into a space they weren’t ready to occupy.

He could see the conflict warring within her, the desire to confide battling against the fear of vulnerability.. He wanted to reach out, to bridge the gap that seemed to widen with each passing second, but he held back, respecting the invisible line she had drawn.

































Thinkin Bout You



Frank Ocean










♡coded by uxie♡
 



Finn Erickson





































  • mood



    You don't know me.
















Finn couldn't help but observe the way she leaned in, only to retreat moments later, a dance of proximity that both intrigued and frustrated him...

'God, I wish you'd stop that... you're teasing me,' echoed in his thoughts, a confession he was reluctant to voice.

He relished the power he usually wielded in these encounters, yet here he was, feeling that grip loosen as he met her gaze... Calla was unlike any woman he had encountered; her confidence was a refreshing challenge, one that both amused and unnerved him.
Typically, women would yield to his charm, surrendering to his whims without hesitation, but Calla stood her ground, and that sparked a flicker of apprehension within him..an emotion he would never dare to reveal. He maintained his signature smirk, a mask of nonchalance, as if he were privy to her thoughts, even when he was not.

“Secret, Finn?” she asked, her Spanish accent lacing her words with an alluring rhythm that sent a shiver down his spine.

He fought to suppress the thrill it ignited within him, unsure if it was the whiskey or her presence that stirred such feelings... His gaze momentarily drifted to the fresh glasses of whiskey on the bar, and he raised his glass in gratitude to the bartender before taking a sip, hoping to steady his racing heart... "Everyone has secrets... Calla," ..he replied, his voice low and gravelly, laced with a seductive undertone. His eyes flickered to her lips, catching the fleeting smirk that danced across her face, a tantalizing reminder of the game they were playing.

"So yes... I do think you have secrets," he added, nodding knowingly, convinced of her hidden depths. The way she laughed, as if she were toying with his emotions, only fueled his intrigue... A grin crept back onto his lips as he tilted his head, a soft 'huh' escaping him, acknowledging the playful challenge between them...
"Me with secrets...? Well, of course, Calla." Their names hung in the air, that they both kept repeating.. a testament to the unspoken understanding of the game they were engaged in.
Yet, even as he spoke with bravado, he felt a slight tension in his body; no woman had ever dared to probe so deeply into his guarded soul...Finn inclined his head slightly, a subtle attempt to mask the swirling nerves within him, feeling surprisingly successful as he took a moment to steady his racing pulse...
“What if I claimed I’m not as predictable as you presume?”..he asked..A low, rich chuckle rumbled from his chest, embodying the increasing admiration he held for her..
“I revel in challenges, Calla.. you’re merely making this a tantalizing game.” He savored another sip of whiskey, feeling its warmth spread through his veins, coaxing him to delve deeper.
“Yet, I must confess, you stand apart from anyone I’ve encountered... Most women would bask in my attention, but you seem to delight in keeping me on my toes.” The dance of their verbal sparring ignited something between them, a thrilling tension palpable in the air, equally acknowledged by both. Time seemed to pause as Finn’s body stiffened, adrenaline coursing through him when Calla leaned in, her hair brushing tantalizingly against him as she whispered in his ear, her breath a delightful tickle...

"You know it all, don’t you?” she teased, her voice weaving a spell that sent shivers down his spine, compelling him to remain silent as he met her gaze with a mix of intrigue and challenge.
A sly smirk tugged at his lips as he thought, 'Oh, you are evil,' he thought..the satisfaction swelling within him... He set his glass down firmly, inching closer this time, his heart racing with a cocktail of daring and desire...

“And if I succeed in unraveling you, Calla?” he enticed, dragging his fingers lightly along her arm while licking the remnants of whiskey from his lips...

"be careful, Finn... Maybe you won’t like what you see when you reach end."

“Should I tread carefully?” ..he countered, a playful question lacing his tone as he held her gaze with an assertive intensity, trying to unnerve her even though he knew it would be a formidable task.
Her sincere undertones only fueled his competitive spirit, igniting the urge to best her clever repartee.... As he planted his palm firmly on the bar, his focus remained firmly locked onto hers, the world around them fading as he barely registered the brush of her fingertips grazing his, deepening the intrigue that enveloped them both, a strategic retaliation inviting him deeper into her tantalizing web.

He leaned in closer, the warm light of the bar illuminating her features, casting graceful shadows across her face... “Oh, I thrive on complexity... Perhaps you underestimate my tenacity.” ..The words rolled off his tongue confidently, but internally he felt the stakes climb higher.
This was no simple game; Calla was a mystery wrapped in enigma, and he was drawn to her deeper than he ever thought possible.

Her words cut deep and struck a chord, forcing him to confront the underlying desire that surged within him. He chuckled, masking the sudden insecurity that flared up... “So, you advise caution then? Such wisdom from someone so delightfully unpredictable,” ..he shot back, reveling in their back-and-forth banter.

Finn's gaze deepened, a storm of emotions swirling within him as he continued to counter her words, yet he found himself unable to predict what she might say next... "I know you well enough, Calla," ..he declared, leaning in closer, his fingers finally intertwining with hers, his thumb grazing her knuckles.
He noticed her reciprocating the movement, inching her face nearer to his, a silent dance of curiosity and tension unfolding between them...

“Maybe you only know what I let you see.” Calla replied, her eyes locked onto his, a spark of intrigue igniting in the air.

Finn's jaw tightened as he mulled over her words, his tongue tracing the edges of his teeth in contemplation...

"You can handle more than this,” she continued, her voice dipping into a more intimate cadence that sent a shiver through him, his ears buzzing with the weight of her implication.

"you can try."

"Try...?" he retorted, a playful smirk breaking across his face, a mask of bravado shielding the uncertainty beneath..

"You don't know me," he added, the lightness in his tone fading as he turned away, withdrawing his hand from hers and downing the remainder of his fourth glass of whiskey, shaking his head as if to dispel the nerves creeping in.
A sidelong glance caught her eye, and he added with a knowing smirk, "Anyone who knows me understands the importance of keeping their distance." It was a warning wrapped in jest, a subtle acknowledgment of the danger he posed, the unspoken truth that getting too close could lead to her undoing.

Yet, he felt indifferent to the potential consequences; it wasn't affection that drew him to her, but rather the challenge she represented. His gaze roamed over her, assessing, before he finally turned back, a defiant tilt to his head... "Tell me," ..he pressed, his voice low and challenging, "What do you want from me? What do you hope to gain from this?..Calla from Spain.." His eyes were enough to have someone to yield, yet he found she barely even folded under that, an act perhaps..?

































All I Want Is You



Miguel










♡coded by uxie♡
 
ELLIOT BROOKS

Elliot had just set down the coffee in front of Héctor, trying his best to balance the nerves that always seemed to flare up around him. But just as he was about to retreat back to the counter, his boss’s voice called out from the kitchen. “Elliot! Shift’s done! Get out of here!”

He winced, a little embarrassed by the loudness of it, but he couldn’t help the relief that washed over him. His shift was over, thankfully. He glanced down at his nametag, the familiar piece of metal that had felt like an invisible wall between him and everything else. Slowly, he took it off and dropped it on the table next to Héctor’s coffee with a quiet clink. He didn't look at it again. It was almost like shedding a skin, and he didn’t want to feel like a waiter anymore. He wanted to just be… himself.

But even with that small action, the nerves didn’t entirely fade. He tugged off his apron and folded it, still feeling awkward in his own skin. There was something in the air now, something that made his stomach flutter, something that wasn’t there when he was just serving coffee. Héctor was still sitting there, looking so unbothered, as if this whole interaction was no big deal. It made Elliot feel even more out of place, though he couldn’t quite figure out why.

Héctor’s eyes were on him, of course. Elliot felt the heat creep up his neck as he shifted his weight, still standing by the table. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to sit down, but the whole thing felt… too much. Too real.

“Guess I’m off the clock now,” Elliot mumbled, finally sliding into the chair across from Héctor. His words felt clumsy, his voice a little too small. It wasn’t like he had anything better to say, and just sitting there in silence seemed impossible. He fiddled with the hem of his shirt, trying to distract himself from the fact that Héctor’s eyes were still on him, still studying him.

Before he could say anything else, though, his coworker Ava came over, smile wide. "Hey, Elliot! You done for the day? What can I get you?"

Elliot blinked, startled by the interruption, and glanced up at her. “Uh, just... black coffee, I guess?” he said, voice a little more hesitant than he would’ve liked. His eyes flitted back to Héctor briefly, trying to gauge if he was still waiting for something. After Ava nodded and walked off, he felt even more unsure of himself. The noise of the café felt louder now, and his usual shyness seemed to weigh heavier, making it harder to keep his mind from spiraling.

His fingers drummed against the edge of the table, but he quickly stopped, suddenly self-conscious of even the smallest gestures. "So... uh, yeah," Elliot continued, barely meeting Héctor’s eyes. "I guess I’m stuck here for a bit. I—uh—hope that’s okay."

It was strange, the way Héctor looked at him, like there was some unspoken thing between them. But Elliot couldn’t figure it out. Maybe it was just his usual awkwardness getting in the way. Or maybe Héctor had expected him to make a move, but Elliot didn’t even know where to start. Every time he thought he might say something, his mind went blank, and he felt like he was back in high school, trying to get up the courage to talk to someone he liked.

The silence stretched for a moment, and Elliot couldn’t help but feel the weight of it. His fingers twitched again, but this time, he kept them still. “I, uh... I don’t know what I’m doing here,” he muttered, more to himself than to Héctor. It wasn’t like he could admit how badly his nerves were getting to him. He knew Héctor probably wasn’t thinking anything of it. He’d probably never even noticed how much Elliot was stumbling over himself.

His coworker returned a few moments later with his coffee, and Elliot managed a soft, grateful smile before quickly taking a sip. The warmth calmed him for a second, but the tension was still there, a little electric and way too present.

He finally looked up at Héctor again, but his gaze was fleeting, like he wasn’t sure if he was allowed to meet it for too long. “I—I didn’t mean to make this... weird,” he said quietly, unsure of what else to say. “It’s just... I don’t really do this. Like, uh... hang out, you know? Not like this, anyway.” His face flushed at his own words, and he quickly looked down at his cup, the heat against his hands helping to distract him from his nerves, even if just a little. There it was again, the silence. He wasn’t sure what Héctor thought of him, or if this was all just a small thing to him. But if he could just figure out how to stop stumbling over his words, maybe, just maybe, he could find out.

Mentions: Héctor - ShellBelles ShellBelles
coded by kaninchen


POV - Héctor Castillo
Héctor kept his eyes on Elliot as he watched the waiter fumble in front of him. He continued to sit there as his eyes drifted over towards the kitchen where Elliot's boss had called from. Was his shift over this whole time? Then why hadn't he said anything? Did he still choose to serve Héctor regardless? He found that very interesting. As endearing as it was, Héctor couldn't help but realize how much of a people pleaser Elliot really was. Not that there was anything really wrong with that, but he secretly feared that people could be taking advantage of the poor boy because of it.

Héctor simply watched as Elliot awkwardly took off his name tag and apron, before placing it there on the table. He held back a snicker of amusement from the sight. This guy really didn't know what to do with himself. He flashed a smile as Elliot finally managed to bring himself to sit down in front of him. Héctor let out a low hum of acknowledgment before taking another sip of his coffee. His whole panache demeanor never really left, though he let himself be more casual now that he had gotten the guy to sit down with him. "Muy bien. A pleasant coincidence, no?"

Héctor continued to observe the now off worker in front of him. He kept taking note of all his mannerisms. Elliot really did seem to be quite antsy. Héctor wondered if he was naturally like this or if it was really just him. It wouldn't be much of a surprise to Héctor if that was the case. Tons of people he's met with have practically swooned over his presence. Suppose it was just his charm that was natural. That sure gave him a boost of his own ego. Still, it was his goal to have the other loosen up a little. This whole interaction he was having was a lot more tense than it needed to be.

Héctor stayed quiet as Elliot's coworker came over and took his order for him. His chin remained rested upon the back of his hand while he sat there, letting the whole exchange happen. But he still kept his eyes on Elliot, wanting to keep check on how his mood was being affected. He smiled in response to his comment, speaking up again in his Spanish accent. "No, no. Not at all. Gives us all the more time to chat."

Héctor let all the chatter of the cafe remain in the background as he kept his entire focus on Elliot. This was a big change of pace from what their usual interactions were. Good. They were already getting somewhere with that alone. Now it was just a means of pushing along this conversation. Though the awkward silence definitely wasn't gonna help. Héctor held his cup of coffee in his hand while talking in his smooth tone. "You're here because we're chatting. Nothing wrong with a little friendly conversation between two acquaintances."

Héctor watched as Elliot received his coffee and took a sip, shamelessly eyeing the way he licked his lips for a moment after he did so. A bit of heat came across his face this time, but he managed to mask it with his confident attitude while smirking at Elliot. "You don't have to apologize, guapo. I'm choosing to hang out with you. And that's not something that I do with people I don't like." Héctor gave a raise of his eyebrows at Elliot as he spoke, going back to that flirty undertone of his. Neither of them were really being subtle about this now.

Another bout of silence overtook the two of them as they sat there at the table. Héctor took another swig from his cup, not really being fazed by this interaction like that. He was actually being quite patient, which was highly unusual for a guy like him. Not even he could understand it. There was just something about Elliot that made it impossible for Héctor to be annoyed with him, instead of just plain endeared. He swirled his cup around slightly, while still looking over at the other. "But why is that? You seem like such a sweet boy. I wouldn't be surprised if you had a list of people who'd like to be spending time with you." As Héctor spoke this time, his tone was less flirty and more genuine, actually curious about the answer to his question.

travelbypages travelbypages (Elliot)
 
mood :
mildly annoyed

location :
lodge, her room
outfit :
mentions :
n/a

interactions :
jordy Syrok18 Syrok18
Jayashri
;; Zara
Zara rolled her eyes at Jordy's remarks. But, despite the surface level annoyance, he frustrated expression lacked the depth of true anger. In fact, she was rather amused by his banter and her eyes gave this away, showing a flicker of happiness. She wasn't one to let her guard down though, so she didn't give in completely.

"I don't celebrate Christmas, not really. But, the best gift you could give me is getting out of here within the next hour if you really insist on not leaving immediately," she sighed, contrasting his statement of holiday cheer. It was true. Her family had no cultural ties to the holiday, so as a child she never celebrated. Her father put up some Christmas decorations and threw parties for his business partners, but it was less of a "spreading holiday cheer" thing and more of a "Merry Christmas, enjoy a couple of free drinks and come give us your money" thing. Quality family time was out of the question and she got no gifts. But, the gift thing was no great loss since she'd had unlimited access to her father's bank account since she was 13.

She went to open her closet and began flicking through her outfits, thinking about what to wear for the day. As she went about examining her clothes, she continued talking to Jordy. "If you are staying, order some room service. Order me the French toast and a mimosa. Get whatever you want, it's on me." Zara took a brief pause from choosing her clothes to look towards Jordy, her expression cold but not completely resentful. The breakfast was a peace offering. She may not want Jordy to stay over for too long, but it's not like she hated him. Besides, he was awfully hard to stay mad at with that flirtatious grin on his face.
coded by reveriee.
 
Clay Asher Storm
Musician
Location
Common Area
"Hate this town"
interactions.
C
lay regarded her with a playful smirk, his curiosity clearly piqued.
“I have an apartment here, but now you’ve truly captured my interest,”
he remarked, falling into step beside her as they walked.
“Wherever shall this spiky, underdressed girl have up her sleeves?”
His gaze flickered down to her, amusement dancing in his eyes. He appreciated her mischievous demeanor, the way it hinted at adventures yet to unfold, and he couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought.

As they continued onward, Clay’s attention shifted to the scenery around them, taking in the lively atmosphere that surrounded the closed ice rink.
“A lot of new faces, huh?”
he commented, observing the bustling crowd gathered outside, the excitement palpable even without the ice skaters. Families and friends chatted animatedly, their laughter ringing through the crisp air, despite the rink being shut for the holiday season.

Upon reaching the entrance of the rink, Clay’s expression transformed into one of playful disappointment. “Hello! What do we have here?” he exclaimed, a mock frown crossing his face as he gestured to the
“Closed for Christmas”
sign hanging on the door. The sight before them was filled with eager skaters turned spectators, bundled up in colorful hats and scarves, their faces illuminated by the twinkling lights that adorned the rink.

“Looks like a perfect spot for some fun—if only it were open,”
he added, glancing back at her with a twinkle in his eye. The festive atmosphere was electric, and he could sense that whatever she had planned would undoubtedly be a memorable experience.
“So, what’s next on our agenda? I have a feeling you’ve got something up your sleeve to make this evening just as exciting!”




 
Lucian Castro

L
ucian hadn't expected her to believe him so quickly, especially after how aggressively she'd come at him. He was surprised when she finally seemed to ease up, her hands pulling away from his camera, and he let out a small breath of relief. It must have been clear now that he wasn't some fan or paparazzi trying to get a shot of her, and with that realization, his tense posture began to relax. As she murmured an apology, he gave a small nod, acknowledging her words.
He immediately started tucking his camera back into his bag, grateful to finally secure the expensive equipment. But just as he was finishing up, his attention shifted, and he froze. The sight of her green eyes glistening with unshed tears struck him harder than he'd anticipated. He wasn’t one to handle emotions well, and it made him stiffen again, unsure of what to do next.
Lucian wasn’t the type of person someone would go to for comfort—hell, he wasn’t even sure what to say to make things right. He just wanted to stop the scene before it spiraled further. He watched her walk away, her body language heavy with defeat, and he didn't make a move to stop her. He wasn’t entirely sure how to. But when she turned back to look at him, her mouth opening and closing as if she wanted to say something but couldn’t quite find the words, he felt something stir in him.
Was he really about to go out of his way to console this woman? He ran a hand through his hair, frustrated with himself, but the answer was clear. Yeah, yeah he was.
Lucian sighed deeply, walking after her a few steps, unsure of how to begin. When he finally called out, his voice was a bit rough around the edges, as if the words didn’t quite fit in his mouth.
"Hey, hey, look I—ugh,"
he huffed, dragging his hand through his hair again, trying to figure out how to phrase this.
"Look, it's no harm, no foul. My camera's fine, and it's not like you actually hurt me, so… I do forgive you."

The words felt strange on his tongue, and as he awkwardly stood there, wringing his hands, he knew he probably sounded like a total idiot. But at least he was trying, even if it was coming out all wrong.
"So... yeah, no need to be upset or anything... we're good lady, I guess."

His mouth curled upwards slightly in a motion that couldn't even really be classified as a smile really. Well he had tried his best, though he wasn't quite sure if he’d done enough.


outfit:
location:
Outside of Revelstoke Lodge

tags:
 
Lawson Blake Hale
Constable
Location
Hale House
"I don't know if I want to kiss her or keep this casual"
interactions.
T
he steaming dishes adorned the table, a vibrant array of roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and a roast that gleamed with a perfectly caramelized exterior. At the heart of the spread lay the cherished traditional recipes her mother had imparted to her before she moved—fresh bannock and hearty beef stew, each dish a testament to her culinary heritage. Talisa had meticulously ensured that nothing was left to chance, pouring her heart into the preparation.

The table was laid with care, each item placed with precision, a visual feast that promised warmth and comfort. The soft golden glow of the candles flickered gently, illuminating the room and casting delicate shadows on the walls, creating an atmosphere that felt like a moment frozen in time. Lawson’s gaze returned to Talisa as the room began to fill with the cheerful chatter of family and friends.

He leaned closer, giving her arm a light squeeze.
“You did amazing,”
he whispered softly in her ear, his voice warm with admiration, before pulling her seat out for her to take her place at the table. The air was filled with the sounds of shared stories and laughter, harmonizing beautifully with the delicious aromas that enveloped them. As he savored the dish that Talisa had crafted, a smile spread across his face, a subtle acknowledgment of her talent and the love she had poured into the meal.

Once everyone had finished, he took it upon himself to gather the dishes and carry them to the kitchen, the clatter of plates punctuating the joyful ambiance. He sighed softly as he glanced back at her, a quiet contentment settling over him. Having her here transformed the atmosphere, infusing it with a sense of Christmas magic that he hadn’t realized he was missing.

There was something about Talisa that resonated deeply within him; her presence made everything feel more vibrant and connected. He found himself enjoying her company more than he had anticipated, a delightful surprise that warmed his heart. Though he wasn’t entirely sure where their journey would lead or what lay ahead for them, he felt an undeniable pull to explore the possibilities. In that moment, as he washed the dishes and listened to the laughter echoing in the background, he made a silent promise to himself—to embrace whatever came next and to see where this newfound connection with Talisa might take them.



 
Auriela Grace Hale
Constable Daughter/Wild Child
Location
Hale house
"They mean the world to me"
interactions.
A
urie smiled as she looked up at Roman, a playful glint in her eyes.
“Is that so? The happiest you’ve ever seen me?”
she chuckled, her voice light and teasing. The warmth of the moment enveloped her as they kissed the top of her head and gave their hand a gentle squeeze, a simple yet profound gesture that brought her a deep sense of comfort. For Aurie, these moments felt like treasures, each one a building block in the foundation of their relationship.

After a few minutes of soaking in the joyful atmosphere, filled with laughter and the delicious smells of dinner wafting from the kitchen, she decided it was time to join her father and Talisa at the table. With a bounce in her step, she made her way over and settled down next to Roman, who was seated beside their mother. The table was alive with conversation, the air filled with the sounds of family enjoying each other’s company, stories shared over mouthfuls of food, and the clinking of silverware against plates. Aurie felt a sense of contentment wash over her, knowing that she was surrounded by loved ones, all gathered in celebration.

Once everyone had finished their meal, Aurie felt a burst of energy. She reached for Roman’s hand, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she playfully dragged them to the living room. The moment they crossed the threshold, she quickly turned on their favorite Christmas song, the familiar melody filling the space with warmth and nostalgia. It was a song that held countless memories, each note inviting them to dance, to laugh, and to enjoy the magic of the season.

Wrapping her arms around their neck, Aurie gazed deeply into their eyes, her heart swelling with affection.
“Maybe I look the happiest because I have you here with me,”
she said softly, her voice sincere and full of emotion. The connection they shared in that moment felt electric, a warmth radiating between them that seemed to synchronize their hearts.

“For once, Romi-Bear, seeing everyone happy—and hell, even my dad has been smiling—makes me feel this way,”
she continued, her gaze unwavering as she leaned in to kiss the top of their nose. It was a sweet and tender gesture, one that encapsulated the depth of her feelings. She could see the joy reflected in their eyes, and it made her heart race with happiness.

As they swayed gently to the music, Aurie felt a profound sense of gratitude for the connection they shared. The living room was alive with the spirit of Christmas—decorations twinkling in the soft light, the scent of pine mingling with the remnants of their dinner, and the sounds of laughter echoing in the background. In that moment, surrounded by family and the magic of the season, Aurie understood that these were the moments that truly mattered. They were the threads that wove together the tapestry of their lives, each one vibrant and filled with love.

She knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together. With Roman by her side, the world felt brighter, and the future seemed full of possibilities. As the song played on, Aurie held onto that feeling, cherishing every second spent in the warmth of their love and the joy of the holiday season.





 









scroll








christmas day.



dallas beck.













mood.

excited.















location

the lodge | reece's room.











interactions

reece.



















Dallas grinned at Reece,
"Duh, don't you know it."
She and Reece had been bonding over football the last couple of weeks since they had literally run into each other.

Conversations with Reece were light and easy, which was just what she liked and needed. She stepped inside the room and looked around,
"Nice digs."
She shrugged and made her way to the couch where she sat down. She knew what the lodge rooms looked like since she worked there, but she hadn't ever stayed in there personally.

When she originally crash-landed in Revelstoke, she had ended up staying at a sleazy motel for a few weeks while she found a job and eventually made enough money to rent an apartment.

"You talk to your parents today?"
She kicked her shoes off and curled her feet under her as she talked to him. She was genuinely invested in what happened with Reece and his family.


♡coded by uxie♡
 
Joon Felix Choi
Snowboarding Rep/Photographer
Location
Lodge
"Something seems off with her"
interactions.
J
oon studied her face intently as he heard the shocking words spill from her lips.
“But do you remember that night we spent together? The... last night?”
he asked, his voice steady but filled with an undercurrent of emotion. He locked eyes with her, searching for clarity in the swirling confusion that enveloped him. Of course he remembered that night; it was etched in his memory, a vivid tapestry of emotions and sensations that he could never truly forget.

As he sat there, an uneasy silence fell between them. Joon processed everything she had just revealed, each word hitting him like a wave. He felt a deep gulp form in his throat, a mixture of disbelief and concern rising to the surface. “So you are with child?” he finally managed to say, standing up and starting to pace the room. His mind raced, trying to comprehend the enormity of what she was saying. It had been a few months now, and the reality of the situation left him feeling utterly bewildered.

“How long have you known?”
he asked, his voice sharper than he intended.
“You have my number,”
he added, frustration creeping in as he ran a hand through his messy black hair, trying to tame the chaos in his mind that mirrored his appearance. He took a deep breath, attempting to steady himself before sitting back down in the chair opposite her, the weight of the conversation pressing down on him.

Joon looked at her intensely, their eyes locking in a moment that felt both poignant and heavy.
“Natalia…”
he breathed, the name rolling off his tongue like a prayer, filled with both longing and concern. The reality of her news settled over him like a thick fog, and he felt an array of emotions battling within him—fear, responsibility, and an inexplicable sense of connection to the child that was now a part of their shared history.

“Why didn’t you reach out?”
he asked softly, his voice cracking slightly. The vulnerability in his tone was palpable as he leaned forward, searching her eyes for answers.
“I need to understand. We need to figure this out together.”
In that moment, the world around them faded, leaving only the two of them tangled in a web of uncertainty and unspoken feelings.





 









scroll








christmas day.



darcy henry.













mood.

nervous.















location

the redfern's home.











interactions

mason.



















Darcy laughed lightly at Mason and then smiled as he talked about the twins. There was one thing Darcy could never get tired of and it was talking about her twins. They were her pride and joy.
"I know. I can't believe they turned 4 in October."
Her voice was soft as she gazed at them.

"They both have such big personalities. It's crazy they're like little people."
She then turned to look at him. She bit her lip before she said the next thing.

"I'm sorry I left."
Her sentence was vague and she sort of blurted it out. She then realized it had a double meaning, but she wasn't ready to talk about the past...yet.
"The other day, on the hill I mean."
She cleared her throat, feeling a little bit awkward in the moment and crossed her arms over her chest, not in a defensive way but because it was cold out and she didn't have a coat.


♡coded by uxie♡
 









scroll








christmas day.



rowan briar.













mood.

happy.















location

autumn's shop.











interactions

autumn.



















Rowan grinned a little as Autumn watched her and made her comment Rowan having the I'm in charge look. She fake scoffed before answering,
"Well babe, that's just me."
There was nothing Rowan loved more than flirting. She would flirt with anyone, but it had always been a little more enjoyable with Autumn. Rowan didn't let herself think deeper of what that might have meant. She was happy to live in oblivion.

Rowan's stomach flipped a little as Autumn talked about her. It was flattering to say the least.
"Maybe you should be intimidated."
She joked and gave her a small smile. She then paused before saying,
"Don't mistake it, I look good in every color, Aut. I could wear neon yellow and maroon and look hot."
Rowan had always been a little cocky.

But then when Autumn said that Rowan was in one piece, it was almost like she had hit Rowan in the gut. Not intentionally, of course, but Rowan was not in one piece. She bit down on her lip, hard, to stop the emotions from flooding through. Maybe if they spent more time together again Rowan could come clean to Autumn, but she wasn't ready for that, not in the slightest.

"It's good to see you and it's good to see you're doing well."
She gestured around the store,
"How long has the store been open?"
She desperately wanted to shift the conversation off of herself and she did want to hear about how Autumn was.
"And what crystal would you recommend for me?"
It wasn't like she could afford it, but she still wanted to know. Only one person in the entire town knew what Rowan was going through and that was Monroe as she had to come clean in order to get the job. She hadn't even told Casper the full extent of her troubles yet and he was her best friend.

♡coded by uxie♡
 









scroll








christmas day.



sutton sullivan.













mood.

nervous?















location

the lodge.











interactions

jace.



















Sutton laughed a little too hard at Jace's comment about her truck. She clasped her hand over her mouth, she had always been embarrassed by her laugh, her brothers constantly teasing her for it. She let her hand fall and blushed a little about her mannerism that had been habit more than anything else.
"My dad would say the same thing probably,”
She said softly.

She then shrugged a little about the beer,
"It's just a thank you, silly. The least I could do.”
She then added,
"I figured we could drink it together, maybe after we eat?”


She then laughed at his comment about the salad. It reminded her of something one of her brothers or dad would have said. Jace just seemed familiar, almost reminded her of home.
"Wherever you want, I'm easy to please. I don't want an overpriced salad either. A burger sounds pretty damn good though.”
She didn't really mind salads, but he didn't have to know that.



♡coded by uxie♡
 
Jupiter Khaing

J
upiter jumped in surprise as Isabelle’s voice shot up to a shout before she darted toward the bathroom. He hadn’t expected such a dramatic reaction to him casually mentioning snakes. His eyes widened slightly, but he couldn’t help the small grin that tugged at the corner of his lips as he watched her slam the bathroom door shut. Moments later, she leaped into his bed, settling herself in the middle of the mattress like it was some kind of fortress, glaring toward the bathroom door as she visibly shuddered. Her voice echoed through the room, tinged with both disgust and panic as she shouted at him about the possibility of snakes getting into the room.
He rolled his eyes, leaning casually against the wall, crossing his arms as he regarded her with a mix of amusement and exasperation.
"It was just a random example, Isabelle,"
he said, shrugging nonchalantly, trying to calm her down.
"I don’t even know how common snakes are out here, especially during the winter."
His tone was easygoing, but he couldn’t quite hide the bemusement in his voice at her reaction.
However, his attention shifted the moment she mentioned his earlier denial of them ‘cuddling.’ His face flushed with embarrassment as the words sunk in. He wasn’t exactly the touchy-feely type, especially with someone he barely knew. The mere thought of waking up with her so close to him made his skin crawl slightly, and the blush on his cheeks deepened as a frown tugged at his lips.
"I-I did—Why are you bringing this up again?!"
His voice was a little flustered, the words tumbling out faster than he meant. He rubbed his arms, trying to mask the sudden awkwardness he felt in himself.
"I did not cuddle you, Isabelle. Considering you practically squirrelled your way into my room and bed, I wouldn't be surprised if you wedged yourself between my arms. I usually wake up holding a pillow, not a whole person."

Jupiter crossed his arms tighter over his chest, his fingers moving up and down his biceps as he tried to regain some semblance of composure. His ears were still burning, and he was trying hard to ignore the odd sense of embarrassment she’d managed to stir up.


outfit:
location:
Revelstoke Mountain Lodge

tags:
 
Ozelia Mae Bonet

O
zelia’s heart ached as she listened to Eileen pour her feelings out, the weight of her words settling heavy in the air. Though she prided herself on being a person who tried to find the light in every situation, she knew some things were just too painful to brush off with a smile or a goofy comment. The way Eileen spoke about her mom, the raw hurt and the frustration in her voice, was something Ozelia couldn't just ignore.
She moved closer, instinctively reaching out to place a hand gently on Eileen's shoulder, offering the kind of comfort that words sometimes couldn't. Her usual bright energy dimmed, but not completely. She knew better than to hide behind a false smile when something so real was being shared, so she leaned in and spoke softly, her tone more grounded than usual.
"Eileen,"
she started, her voice warm but steady, trying to provide a space for her to breathe in the storm of emotions.
"I’m really, really sorry you're feeling all of this. I can’t even pretend to know how hard it must be for you. Losing someone… it’s not something you can just move on from, no matter how hard you try. And it’s okay, you’re not supposed to just let go like that."

Ozelia paused, her eyes softening as she carefully chose her words.
"I think… I think you should know it’s okay to feel like this. Grief doesn’t have a timeline, or a ‘right’ way to go about it. Everyone handles it differently, and sometimes, you just need to feel all of it. It doesn’t mean you’re broken or weak. It just means you loved someone and you miss them. And that’s okay."

She gave Eileen’s shoulder a gentle squeeze before letting her hand fall back to her lap, offering the girl a soft smile.
"I’m sure your dad and the rest of your family… they’re probably missing your mom too, right? But I bet they still want you to know that they’re there for you. It’s okay to not be okay, but it’s also okay to lean on them. You're not a burden for needing support. If anything, you leaning on them could help them as well."

The words felt gentle but genuine, an effort to ease the tightness in Eileen’s chest, even if only a little. Ozelia slipped off her glove and wiped away the soft tears that had started to fall with the back of her hand.
Ozelia looked at Eileen with a softness in her eyes, the brightness of her smile returning just a little.
"And I’m sure you’ve got this too. It's okay to take a break from the holidays, take your time. But I also hope that someday, when you're ready, you'll find your way back to finding joy in moments like this again. Not because you should, but because you deserve it."

She sat with her for a moment, not trying to rush or fix things but just offering a little light, a reminder that even on days that felt heavy, there was still space for healing, for grace.



outfit:
location:
Main Street

tags:
 
mood :
upset, weirdly nicer than usual

location :
zane's place
outfit :
mentions :
n/a

interactions :
zane travelbypages travelbypages
Samson
;; Casper
Apparently he had said that out loud. Apparently that wasn't a bad thing. It was really hard to render Casper speechless, but as Zane leaned in he didn't say a word. He simply sat and stared. The self deprecating part of him wanted to chalk his silence up to being scared of messing all of this up. But the honest part of him knew that the simple truth was he was absorbing everything about the man in front of him. Savoring everything he could.

He'd never been kissed like this before. It was slow, deliberate. It wasn't someone simply trying to get him to shut up, or a sloppy drunk make out session. No, this was something real. It made him feel light in the head, butterflies dancing in his stomach. When Zane pulled back, Casper's eyes were pleading, his lips falling into a gentle pout. Not the joking, over exaggerated kind he typically used to tease or drive a point home. It wasn't intentional, he just didn't want it to end.

Fortunately, it quickly became apparent that it wasn't going to end anytime soon. Zane's lips fell on his again, easing all his worries that the man might pull away. Though their lips parted, they continued to remain close. The warmth of Zane's hand on his cheek comforted Casper. He leaned into his touch slightly, reveling in the feeling that it brought. His eyes stayed locked on Zane's, carefully trying to read his expression. The way Casper felt him study his face made his heart speed up. It wasn't judgmental, in fact it made Casper feel like he could just exist and never face judgement again.

Casper's slightly parted lips fell into a soft smile. Zane's touch, Zane's words, everything about Zane kept him grounded and in the moment. Casper wasn't used to people saying this many nice things about him at once. People had told Casper he was the sort of person who pulled people in before. But typically, the connotation of that comment was he pulled people in the same way a car crash or a black hole did.

Casper let out a low chuckle when Zane brought up how his bong performance effected him. He was particularly proud of that move, and blushed a little at his efforts being recognized. Before he could say anything back, he was enraptured in another kiss. Deep. Slow. A kiss that he wasn't loosing himself in, but rather finding himself in.

He spent as long as he could attached to Zane's lips, savoring every second. When they parted for a moment to catch their breaths, Casper smiled. "You're one to talk. Your moves are clearly driving me insane." He grazed his lips against Zane's, before resting his forehead against the other man's, gazing into his eyes. "You got some smooth moves, my guy. Possibly even smoother than me. And I don't know if it's just the weed working it's magic, or maybe you're just something special, but you're like the most entrancing guy I've ever met."

Casper brought his lips to Zane's again, one hand resting on his waist, one hand moving up to run through his hair. Like the kisses that came before, it made Casper's heart stir like never before. At this point, he didn't even care if they were going to sleep together or not. It was weird, considering Casper was someone with his mind in the gutter most of the time, but as long as he remained by Zane's side tonight he didn't care what they were doing.

Lips parting, Casper grinned. "Ok, hand to god I totally lied before. I do know that you're something special. It's not just the weed. Because I felt it before I even took a hit from your bong. And that sounds so fucking cheesy, and I'm only admitting it because I'm high right now. But, yeah, you're something special." He pressed a quick kiss to Zane's lips. "Thank you for this, I really needed it," he muttered, in a rare moment of genuine gratitude.
coded by reveriee.
 
Kennedy Redfern
Auto Shop Co-Owner
Location
Penthouse Party
"He's kind of cute"
interactions.
K
ennedy chuckled softly, a warm, melodic sound that filled the air as she glanced over her shoulder. There he stood, arms crossed against his chest, a playful glint sparkling in his eyes that hinted at mischief. The moment was electric, and she felt an irresistible urge to bite her lip, a gesture that revealed just how captivated she was by him.
“I’m only so focused because, honestly, if I weren’t, I’d likely still be lost in that kiss with you,”
she admitted, her voice laced with teasing sincerity.

Turning her attention back to the batter, she gave it a final, thoughtful stir, relishing the familiar aroma rising from the mixing bowl. As she did, the anticipation of what was to come filled her with excitement. With a playful determination, she shifted her gaze back to him, her heart racing as she slowly closed the distance between them. She wrapped her arms around his neck, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her fingertips.

“I can hardly wait to see how those pancakes of yours turn out,”
she whispered, her breath soft against his cheek as she rose onto her tiptoes, leaning in to plant a gentle kiss on his lips. It was a fleeting moment, yet it lingered in the air, charged with unspoken promises. Their eyes locked, a deep connection forming as she pulled away, a joyful smile illuminating her face.

“How long do they need to chill?”
she inquired, curiosity dancing in her voice, eager to know more about the process that would transform their morning into something special. The playful banter between them was as comforting as the sweet aroma of breakfast, and she couldn’t help but feel that this was just the beginning of a delightful day together.




 
Emara Linchette-Morris
Therapist
Location
Emara House/Office
"Hello Old home"
interactions.
E
mara's gaze flitted nervously around the room, her mind racing as she struggled to regain her composure. The familiar surroundings felt both comforting and disconcerting, a reminder of the past that lingered in the air.
"I..."
she started, her voice barely above a whisper, but the words caught in her throat, leaving her unable to articulate the tumult of emotions swirling within her. The way he looked at her was unlike anything she had experienced; there was a warmth in his gaze that felt entirely free of judgment, an openness that both intrigued and unsettled her.

Taking a slow, deliberate breath, she tried to gather her thoughts, forcing herself to meet his eyes once more.
"Forrest,"
she sighed softly, the name slipping from her lips like a gentle sigh.
"You hail from this town, which likely means you've overheard whispers of my past before you departed."
The uncertainty gnawed at her; she wasn’t entirely sure how much he knew, but in this close-knit community, it seemed improbable that he hadn’t heard something—perhaps even the most intimate details of her struggles.

As she spoke, Emara felt the weight of their age difference settle heavily in the room.
"Moreover, you are nearer in age to my daughter than to me,"
she continued, her voice steadier now, though the tremor of vulnerability still lingered beneath the surface. She couldn’t shake the feeling that their connection was fraught with complexities, an uncharted territory that both excited and terrified her. Inhaling deeply, she focused on regulating her breathing, determined to maintain her composure in the face of such raw emotions. Each breath served as a reminder of the boundaries she needed to uphold, yet there was something undeniably compelling about the way he stood before her—an echo of a past she thought she had left behind.



 
mood :
nervous

location :
redfern house
outfit :
mentions :
n/a

interactions :
Anthony PrincessAveRedfern PrincessAveRedfern
Sullivan
;; Brittain
Brittain smiled, looking towards the ground as Anthony said his family's holiday hijinks weren't extraordinary. Maybe that was true, but when a family was something Brittain craved so badly, it sure did seem extraordinary to her. She didn't say anything, but from the way Anthony talked about his family, she thought he was lucky to have those experiences.

They approached the house and Anthony explained a bit about some of the family she saw standing around. She took in the information quietly, smiling and nodding. "Cool," she said warmly, not really having much to say on the family dynamic. The family seemed large to her, and a bit complex, but she was no stranger to more unconventional family dynamics. She was quite excited to meet everyone and property get to know them, hopefully she'd come out of this holiday event with a few new friends.

She followed Anthony into the house, giggling when he told her not to get used to the quiet. She was an only child, so she didn't quite get the chaos that came with having a sibling, but she at least knew what he meant. Brittain claimed the stairs, trailing a couple steps behind Anthony, taking in the house around her.

"Hm?" The little noise slipped out of her lips automatically as she heard him mutter. She followed his gaze towards another room, peering over a bit curiously. But, it seemed like his pondering weren't meant for her ears, so she didn't ask any questions. She didn't want to seem intrusive, not when this man was being so generous with her.

Instead, Brittain looked into the room Anthony had led her to. Kennedy's room. She looked around, rather hesitantly. It was very nice, but she wasn't exactly someone who automatically jumped to looking through other people's stuff. "And you're sure your sister would be ok with this? I just don't wanna be like... stealing her stuff," she smiled softly as she voiced her concern, eyes flickering with caution. Her face showed that she wasn't scared to be here, not when Anthony was around, but she was still a little worried about overstepping.
coded by reveriee.
 
RAVEN CROSS
The glass of wine burned pleasantly as Raven set it down, her eyes snapping back to Hollis with renewed focus. Hollis’ smirk was maddeningly confident, daring Raven to rise to the challenge she so clearly intended to set. Raven’s heart raced, but she wasn’t about to let Hollis see that, not yet.

When Hollis grabbed her hand, the boldness caught her off guard. Raven’s breath hitched, her cheeks warming as Hollis brought her hand close, teasing with that infuriating mix of playfulness and calculated charm. The nip against her finger sent a jolt straight through her, leaving her momentarily speechless. And then Hollis leaned back on the counter, her smirk growing impossibly more smug. Raven’s lips curved into a small, knowing smile. 'Alright. You want to play? Let’s play.'

She inched closer, narrowing the space between them even further. Her hand, the one Hollis had dropped, lingered at her side before she placed it lightly on Hollis’ hip, her touch deliberate but soft. Her voice was low when she spoke, laced with the kind of confidence she didn’t always allow herself to show. “Think you’ve got me all figured out, don’t you, Hollis?” she murmured, tilting her head slightly as her gaze flicked up to meet Hollis’. “But let me let you in on a little secret.” Her fingers trailed lightly along Hollis’ hip before retreating, a fleeting touch meant to keep Hollis guessing. “You’re not the only one who knows how to get under someone’s skin.”

She leaned in just a fraction more, her lips close enough for her breath to ghost across Hollis’ ear. “As for your game? Sure,” she said, her voice dropping into a velvety tone. “But I’ll warn you now, I don’t play fair.” Pulling back just enough to meet Hollis’ eyes again, Raven’s smile deepened, equal parts daring and amused. “So, Hollis…” she drawled, her tone teasing yet challenging, “what’s the first move in this little game of yours?”

Mentions: Hollis - celestialbody celestialbody
coded by kaninchen
 
HANNA KHUMALO
Hanna stepped into the room, the soft rustle of her dress drawing Hades’ attention immediately. She caught his wide-eyed gaze and the genuine admiration in his expression as he complimented her, his voice warm and sincere. The way he looked at her made her heart flutter, but she wasn’t about to let him know that. “You know,” she began, her voice light and teasing as she smoothed a hand over the fabric of her dress, “you really need to stop saying things like that. You’re going to make my ego unbearable.” She tilted her head slightly, offering him a sly grin, though the faint blush creeping up her neck betrayed her playful bravado.

When he closed the distance between them and leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper that sent a pleasant shiver down her spine, Hanna’s lips parted in a soft laugh. “Oh, please,” she replied, brushing her hand lightly against his arm. “I’ll be fine. If anything, I’ll make you shiver when you realize I’m stealing your jacket later.” Her eyes sparkled with mischief, and the subtle shift of her weight toward him made the teasing all the more deliberate. As Hades disappeared into the closet, she adjusted her earrings in the mirror, her voice carrying across the room with an ease that belied her amusement. “You know, you’re really setting the bar too high. How am I supposed to go back to boring nights after this? I’ll just sit at home, thinking, ‘Well, Hades would’ve made it interesting.’” Her tone was playful, but there was an undercurrent of sincerity that hinted at just how much she enjoyed their time together.

Hanna’s gaze drifted to the chair, where one of her sweaters was draped casually over the backrest. The sight of it made her smile, a small, private moment that warmed her chest. “And by the way,” she called, shaking her head with a quiet chuckle, “I’m reclaiming that sweater later. You can’t keep all my things hostage. I’m onto you.” When Hades emerged from the closet, clad in his luxurious velvet ensemble, Hanna turned, her eyes flicking over him with a critical, though clearly impressed, gaze. She let the moment stretch out just long enough for him to feel her scrutiny before she smirked, folding her arms across her chest. “You know, it’s a little unfair that you look that good without even trying,” she remarked, her voice tinged with mock indignation. “How is anyone supposed to compete with you? You make it very hard for me to be the center of attention.”

As he gave her a playful wink and announced he was ready, she arched an eyebrow and tapped her foot, her smirk widening. “If we’re late, I’m blaming you. It’s not my fault you’re so extra about your wardrobe.” Her tone was teasing, but the warmth in her gaze softened the words. Before he could respond, she grabbed his hand and tugged him toward the door, her laughter filling the room like a bright melody. “Come on, Mr. Velvet,” she said over her shoulder, her grip firm but playful. “If we stay here any longer, I’ll find another reason to tease you, and I don’t think your ego can handle it.”

She pulled him through the doorway, not stopping until they were outside, where the cool night air greeted them. With a triumphant grin, she gestured toward his car. “Your chariot awaits. Now get moving before I steal the keys and drive us there myself which would be a shame because I really like being the passenger princess.”

Mentions: Hades - PrincessAveRedfern PrincessAveRedfern
coded by kaninchen
 
mood :
a little calmer

location :
diner
outfit :
mentions :
n/a

interactions :
ophelia celestialbody celestialbody
McKay
;; Soren
Ophelia's reassurance was appreciated. It grounded Soren in reality a bit, calmed his nerves and made his thinking more rational. Of course, out of all the people from his past Ophelia would be understanding. She wasn't naive, she wasn't someone who'd simply see the glitz and glamor of modeling and think he was just lucky to get to be in front of a camera. She knew what the world could look like for people in their line of work.

He wasn't ready to talk about it. He didn't know that he'd ever feel ready to talk about it, not really. But Soren knew that Ophelia at least understood a little of what he was going through. That made him feel more supported than he'd been in a very long time. "Thank you," he said, a soft, genuine smile of appreciation crossing his face. The lack of further conversation from him showed he didn't want to talk about it, at least not today. But there was a hit of hope in his eyes, there was progress being made.

Soren appreciated the way Ophelia shifted the conversation towards the holidays and the town, allowing him to be relieved of the pressure of potentially digging deeper into his issues. His head tilted a little in interest as she talked about a restaurant she had been to. "That sounds really interesting. Maybe we can go together sometime? I'm planning on sticking around for a while," he suggested, hoping that reaching out like this would show that he was grateful to reconnect with his friend.

"I've honestly been hanging around the lodge a lot," Soren smiled sheepishly, knowing he did want to get out and explore a bit more than he had. "I know I should be getting out more, this town is so nice. I've explored enough to see a few shops and restaurants though. There's this crystal shop that sells some gorgeous jewelry. I was actually just there, got myself a little bracelet as a Christmas present."
coded by reveriee.
 
T’KAYA STONEWATER

T’kaya couldn’t help but smirk when she noticed Brandon’s subtle reactions, how his shoulders stiffened just slightly at her bold comment, how his lips quirked into a smile despite his obvious attempt to play it cool. She had a way of reading people, and Brandon was no exception. Beneath his calm, composed exterior was someone teetering on the edge of letting go, someone who just needed a little nudge. She leaned back in her chair, her fingers curling loosely around her own coffee cup. “You know,” she began, her tone light but deliberate, “adventure isn’t about experience. It’s about letting yourself be open to the unexpected. You’re halfway there already, Brandon.” Her eyes met his, warm but challenging, a silent dare woven into her words.

When he suggested sledding, her grin widened, amusement flickering across her face. “Sledding, huh?” she mused, tilting her head thoughtfully. “Bold choice for a beginner. I respect it.” The way his hand fit into hers when she stood up didn’t escape her notice, and she gave his fingers a gentle squeeze, her touch both grounding and encouraging. As they stepped outside, the crisp air brushing against their skin, she turned to him, the playful glint in her eyes sharpening. “Alright, Mr. Let’s-Do-Something-Adventurous,” she teased, her voice full of mock seriousness. “I hope you’re ready, because sledding isn’t as tame as it sounds. There’s ice, speed, and the occasional crash landing involved. It’s practically a rite of passage.”

Her fingers stayed intertwined with his as they walked, their steps falling into an easy rhythm. She glanced sideways at him, her expression softening. “But here’s the thing,” she added, her voice quieter now, almost conspiratorial. “Even if you’re terrible at it, even if you wipe out spectacularly, that’s kind of the point. Adventure isn’t about being perfect, it’s about feeling alive.”

When they arrived at the sledding hill, T’kaya let out a delighted laugh at the sight of kids and adults alike zipping down the slope, their joyous shrieks carrying on the cold wind. The hill was steep but not intimidating, the perfect blend of fun and challenge. “This,” she said, gesturing to the scene in front of them, “is what we call the great equalizer. No matter how cool or collected you think you are, you’re going to end up screaming like a maniac.” She tugged him toward the rental shack at the edge of the hill, where a cheery attendant greeted them with a grin. “Two tubes, please,” she said, her tone brisk but friendly. The attendant handed over two inflatable tubes, bright red with black handles. T’kaya grabbed hers with a flourish, spinning it around before resting it on her hip.

Turning to Brandon, she raised a brow, her smirk returning. “Pro tip: hold on tight and lean with the curve of the hill. Or, you know, just close your eyes and hope for the best.” As they trudged up the hill, the snow crunching beneath their boots, she glanced over at him, her expression playful. “You’re not backing out now, are you? Because if you are, I’m totally going to call you a chicken.” When they reached the top, she set her tube down and plopped onto it with the ease of someone who had done this a hundred times. She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Ready, Brandon?” she asked, her voice lilting with excitement. “This is your moment. Just push off, and don’t look back!”

Without waiting for a response, she gave herself a shove, the tube sliding forward as she whooped with unrestrained joy. The wind whipped past her face as she sped down the hill, her laughter echoing across the snow. At the bottom, she hopped up, brushing snow from her ridiculous sweater as she turned to watch Brandon’s descent, a wide grin on her face. “Let’s see if you can keep up!” she shouted, her voice full of challenge and encouragement, ready for whatever chaos or hilarity came next.

Mentions: Brandon - Lizy Lizy
coded by kaninchen
 
CALLA CARLTON
Calla’s lips pulled into a sly, knowing smile, her head tilting as if she found Finn's bravado amusing. She leaned back slightly, her arms crossed over her chest, letting the heavy pause in her response weigh on him like the silence after a thunderclap. “Pff,” she finally scoffed, her accent thick, making each word sound more deliberate. “Finn, you think you mystery, sí? Think you... untouchable.” Her hand lifted lazily, twirling a lock of her hair before letting it drop. “But, I see you. You make noise, loud, like lion—” she narrowed her eyes, flicking her fingers at his chest, “but inside, hmm... you kitten, no?”

Her laugh was soft, almost inaudible, but it cut deeper than words might. “Dangerous man?” She clicked her tongue, shaking her head. “You no scare me. I grow up where men have real danger in them.” Her gaze flicked to his hand on the bar, her expression briefly softening before the sharp smirk returned. “But you? You want play... And I? Maybe I let you.” She leaned forward then, elbows propped against the bar, chin resting lightly in her palm as she regarded him. Her proximity made his breath hitch for just a moment, though she pretended not to notice. “What I want, Finn?” Her tone shifted, softer now, with a teasing lilt. “Maybe... I want to see you try.”

Her fingers ghosted over his, lingering only for a heartbeat before pulling away. She gestured vaguely to the glass in his hand. “Drink your whiskey, Finn. It give you courage.” She smiled, slow and deliberate, a silent challenge written in the tilt of her head, the gleam in her dark eyes. When he didn’t respond, too caught up in her words, her smirk widened. “Or maybe,” she added, voice dropping to a near whisper, “you already lose your nerve. Hmm?”

Then, with a languid motion, she leaned in closer, her breath grazing his cheek. Her lips brushed lightly against his skin, a fleeting, warm press that sent a shiver through him. Her hand rested on his arm as she moved, her lips trailing to the curve of his neck, a touch that lingered just long enough for her to feel his pulse quicken. But just as her lips hovered near his, she stopped. Pulling back slowly, Calla straightened, her smirk deepening. “Maybe I let you win, Finn,” she whispered, her voice low and laced with amusement, “when you prove you deserve it.”

Her fingers brushed his arm one last time as she stood, her chair scraping softly against the floor. “Gracias por el juego,” she murmured, her accent rolling effortlessly off her tongue. She turned on her heel, hips swaying with confidence as she walked away, leaving him behind with nothing but the ghost of her touch, the phantom of her kiss, and the lingering weight of her challenge. And maybe, a part of her hoped he would chase after her.

Mentions: Finn - PotatochipsRlit PotatochipsRlit
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ELLIOT BROOKS
Elliot shifted awkwardly in his seat, his fingers fiddling with the edge of his napkin as he tried to focus on Héctor’s words without letting them completely unravel him. Sitting here, across from someone so confident and composed, felt like he’d been thrust into the spotlight without a script. His cheeks warmed at Héctor's casual flirtation, the way his smooth voice carried that teasing edge like it was effortless. And maybe it was. For Héctor, at least. For Elliot, it felt like he was walking a tightrope.

He ducked his head slightly, letting out a nervous laugh that he hoped masked how much Héctor's attention was getting to him. "I, uh..." He started, only to trail off as he glanced at his coffee. His reflection in the dark surface looked as uneasy as he felt. "I wouldn’t say there’s a list," he muttered, offering a weak smile. It was true, though. Elliot was the kind of person who stayed in the background, who made himself useful without drawing attention. People liked him well enough, sure, but it was because he didn’t make waves. Being noticed, really noticed, like Héctor was doing now, felt foreign. Unsettling, but not in a bad way. Just... different.

He finally looked up at Héctor, meeting those piercing eyes that seemed to see far too much. Elliot bit the inside of his cheek before continuing. "I guess I just... I like making people happy. It’s easier that way, you know? Less conflict, less trouble." He shrugged as if to downplay the vulnerability in his words, but his hand gripping the coffee cup betrayed him. "I guess some people might take advantage of that, but... I don’t really mind. Most of the time." His smile faltered for a moment before he forced it back into place, glancing at Héctor’s coffee to avoid the weight of his gaze. "Besides," he added, his voice a little quieter, "it’s not like I’m very good at saying no."

There. He’d said it. As uncomfortable as it made him to admit it, Elliot couldn’t deny the truth of it. And yet, as much as he expected Héctor to smirk or tease him about it, he was met with something else entirely. Genuine curiosity, a warmth that softened the edges of Héctor’s usual bravado. It made Elliot’s heart stutter in his chest. He hesitated, then glanced up again, his voice barely above a murmur. "I’m guessing you don’t have that problem, huh? People probably don’t push you around." His attempt at humor was shaky at best, but there was an honesty to the question underneath. A small part of him wondered what it would be like to have that kind of confidence, to stand firm without worrying about how it might make others feel.

Elliot bit his lip, then quickly took another sip of his coffee, hoping it might help keep his nerves at bay. If Héctor had noticed the slight tremble in his hand as he set the cup down, he didn’t mention it. For that, Elliot was quietly thankful.

Mentions: Héctor - ShellBelles ShellBelles
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