For those of you asking me to do art commissions, especially those from ArtStation, please stop. I already told you, don't ask me for commissions if you want to draw based on my fics. They're too expensive, and I've already been ripped off enough as it is.
Later at Oak Street Beach, as the group got out of the cars, the bugs looked up in awe at the iconic buildings lining the Chicago skyline, their towering structures providing a stunning backdrop against the shimmering lakefront.
"Been a long while since we saw these buildings," Manny remarked to Gypsy, his eyes scanning the impressive skyline.
"Yeah, it's like seeing old friends again," Gypsy agreed, smiling as she took in the view.
Everyone found a perfect spot on the beach, spreading out towels and setting up their area. The 4 humans took off their shirts, preparing to enjoy the sun. Lily gently helped Emily out of her dress, revealing the little girl's colorful swimsuit underneath.
As everyone started applying sunscreen, Lily knelt down to apply some on Emily first, making sure her skin was fully protected. Once Emily was covered, Lily handed the sunscreen to David, who began applying it on his girlfriend's back and shoulders with care. The others followed suit, getting ready to relax and soak up the sun.
As Emily went with Tuck and Roll to play in the sand, Lily leaned in close to David's face and whispered, "You missed a special spot."
"Oh, did I?" David teased back, his voice low and flirtatious. "Which one?"
"I think my cutout should give you a hint," Lily replied with a mischievous grin.
David chuckled and gently rubbed the area around the cutout where her belly button was exposed. Lily giggled softly at the ticklish sensation, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
David chuckled and gently rubbed the area around the cutout where her belly button was exposed. Lily giggled softly at the ticklish sensation, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
"Better?" David asked with a grin.
"Much better," Lily replied, leaning in to give him a quick kiss. "Thanks, babe."
They then turned their attention back to the beach, where Emily was happily building sandcastles with Tuck and Roll.
Mike and Angela settled into their chairs next to Gypsy and Manny, enjoying the warm sand beneath their feet. Lily and David sat down as well, while the rest of the bugs arranged themselves on their towels, basking in the sun.
"I think the beach might just be my favorite summer activity. Definitely at the top of my list," Gypsy said with a contented smile.
"It's hard to beat," Mike agreed, reclining in his chair. "The sun, the sand, and the sound of the waves—it's perfect."
Angela nodded, "I love it too. It's such a great way to relax and enjoy the day."
David smiled as he watched Emily building a sandcastle with Tuck and Roll. "It's amazing to see how much fun she's having. Days like this make all the effort worth it."
"I couldn't have said it better myself," Lily agreed, smiling warmly at David. "Moments like these are what it's all about."
She glanced over at Emily, her heart swelling with happiness as she watched their daughter laugh and play in the sand.
"So, how long are we staying in Chicago?" Francis asked as he stretched out on the beach towel.
Angela looked over at Mike, who was applying sunscreen to her back. "We've got a couple more days," she replied. "Plenty of time to explore more and maybe even try some other spots."
Mike nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we've hit a lot of the big attractions already, but there's always more to see. And who knows? Maybe we'll find some hidden gems."
Francis grinned. "Good. I'm not ready to leave just yet. This city's got a lot of character."
Angela whispered to Mike, leaning closer to make sure no one else heard her, especially any locals. "I'm surprised you haven't been having PTSD symptoms from being here or on Jerry Springer."
Mike chuckled softly, keeping his voice low. "Honestly, I thought about it a little, but... I guess being with you and the rest of the gang just makes it easier. Keeps me grounded, you know?"
Angela smiled warmly, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. "Good. I was worried for a bit. I'm glad you're doing okay."
He smiled back. "With you around, it's hard not to be."
Both of them shared a soft peck on the lips, and Angela leaned her head gently on Mike's arm. Mike smiled warmly, planting another tender kiss on her forehead.
"You're my anchor," he whispered.
Angela squeezed his arm in response, her eyes closed as she soaked in the peaceful moment on the beach. "And you're mine."
After 20 minutes of sunbathing had passed, Slim stood up with Francis and Heimlich, rummaging through one of the beach bags. He pulled out a brightly colored beach ball and tossed it into the air. Meanwhile, Gypsy and Manny worked together to set up a net, their movements coordinated and efficient.
"Hey, come on, let's play!" Gypsy called out energetically to the four humans. Her excitement was palpable as she waved them over.
David and Lily exchanged amused glances, while Mike and Angela quickly got up from their spot, eager to join in on the fun. The group moved towards the makeshift court, ready for some friendly competition under the sun.
Mike and Angela positioned themselves with Gypsy, Manny, and Heimlich on one side of the net, while David, Lily, and Francis took their place on the other side.
"Hey, Rose, you wanna join in again like last time?" Lily asked, looking over at Rosie, who was lounging nearby.
Rosie grinned and nodded, "Definitely! I'm in for some fun." She hopped up and jogged over to their side, joining Mike, Angela, Gypsy, Manny, and Heimlich.
With everyone in position, Slim tossed the ball into the air to start the game. Cheers and laughter filled the air as the teams went head-to-head, diving and leaping to keep the ball in play. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over the sand as they enjoyed their beach day.
"I love this game!" Manny shouted, spiking the ball over the net.
"Me too!" Gypsy replied, diving to keep the ball in play. "It's always fun doing this at the beach!"
The ball soared back and forth as everyone gave their best shots, laughing and cheering each other on. The friendly competition added to the enjoyment, with occasional splashes of seawater adding to the excitement. The mix of sand, sun, and spirited play made for an unforgettable beach day.
Suddenly, when David spiked the ball, Manny tried to hit it, but the ball slammed right into his face. Manny sprawled onto the sand, wincing with pain.
"Crap! Sorry, Manny!" David called out, rushing over to help. "Are you okay?"
The others quickly approached, concern etched on their faces.
"Hey, take it easy," Gypsy said soothingly. "Let's get you checked out."
Manny groaned but managed a weak smile. "It's okay, just... give me a minute."
The group gathered around, making sure Manny was alright as they waited for him to recover. Despite the mishap, the camaraderie and good-natured teasing continued, keeping the mood light and upbeat.
"I think that's gonna leave a red spot," Mike said, examining Manny's face with a concerned look.
Manny chuckled weakly. "Yeah, probably. But I've had worse."
"Let's get some ice on that," Angela suggested, offering Manny a cooler from their beach setup. "It'll help with the swelling."
As Manny accepted the ice pack, David clapped him on the shoulder. "Sorry again, man. I guess I got a little too into the game."
"No harm done," Manny replied, giving a thumbs up. "Just part of the fun."
With Manny taken care of, the group decided to take a short break before resuming their game, enjoying the beach atmosphere and the camaraderie that came with it.
"Try not to get carried away this time," Lily advised David with a smirk, as Mike delivered a powerful spike to start the game.
David grinned. "No promises."
The ball flew back and forth across the net, the group quickly getting back into the rhythm of the game. Mike and Angela worked seamlessly together, while David and Lily exchanged playful banter as they tried to outmaneuver each other. Gypsy and Manny, despite the mantis' earlier mishap, were fully into the game, and even Heimlich managed to contribute with some surprising saves.
The game continued with laughter and energy, everyone enjoying the spirited competition under the warm Chicago sun.
As the game heated up, Angela dove to save a tricky shot, narrowly keeping the ball in play. Mike, grinning, quickly sent it back over the net with a powerful hit.
"Nice one!" Lily shouted, impressed.
Rosie leaped into action, making a spectacular save. "Alright, let's show 'em how it's done!"
Francis buzzed around energetically, clearly enjoying the game. "Let's take this up a notch!"
The game became more intense with the added enthusiasm, but it remained light-hearted and filled with laughter. As the afternoon sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the beach, the players were having the time of their lives.
David spiked the ball one last time, securing the win for his team. Everyone collapsed onto the sand, panting but grinning.
"Alright, I'm officially tired," Manny said, stretching. "That was a blast."
"Same here," Gypsy added. "This was exactly what we needed."
The group agreed, content as they cooled off, enjoying the satisfaction of a well-spent day at the beach.
Mike, Angela, David, Lily, Gypsy, and Manny made their way to their chairs, while the others sat down on their towels. Mike turned to Angela with a loving smile and said softly, "So what do you think we should do after we make out back at the hotel?"
Angela smiled back at Mike and replied, "How about we explore some more of the city? Maybe visit a few more landmarks or try out a new restaurant. I heard there are some amazing places to eat around here."
Mike nodded in agreement. "That sounds great. Chicago has so much to offer. We could check out some more of the architectural tours or maybe even go to a museum if there's time."
David, overhearing their conversation, chimed in, "There's also the Chicago Art Institute if you're into art. It's not too far from here."
Lily added, "And we could also catch a show or some live music. Chicago has a vibrant nightlife."
Gypsy, Manny, and the others seemed excited by the suggestions, and the group continued to discuss their plans for exploring the city, eager to make the most of their time in Chicago.
Mike then smiled again, his eyes drifting back over to Angela, "Always love the bikini. Really makes you look hot in all the right ways. Even better than those crop tops and skirts you usually wear."
Angela playfully nudged him, grinning. "Oh, so that's what you prefer, huh?"
Mike chuckled. "Well, you look gorgeous either way, but this bikini definitely tops the list."
"Hey, let's head to the water!" Rosie called out, standing up and motioning for the others to join her.
"You too, Dim!" Emily added, coaxing the rhinoceros beetle to join in as she ran with David and Lily toward the water.
Mike and Angela stood up as well, joining the group as they made their way to the water. The beach was alive with activity, and the laughter of the group blended with the sounds of the waves.
Dim laid on his side as Emily tickled his thorax, his laughter echoing over the water. Mike and Angela dashed along the shoreline, their playful shouts mingling with the rhythmic crash of the waves. Tuck and Roll splashed each other with joyful abandon, their chittering laughter adding to the beach's cheerful ambiance. Meanwhile, Gypsy and Manny waded deeper into the water, their conversation punctuated by occasional splashes and the glint of sunlight on their wings.
Heimlich, Francis, and Slim joined in, with Heimlich playfully trying to scoop up water with his tiny hands, Francis and Slim engaging in a friendly splash fight. The entire group reveled in the carefree joy of the beach, their laughter and playful banter blending with the sounds of the waves.
Mike grinned as Angela's arms draped around his shoulders, her voice soft in his ear. "Surprise!" she said playfully.
He chuckled, reaching up to gently hold her arms. "You always know how to get me," he replied, turning his head slightly to catch her eyes.
Angela leaned in and kissed his cheek. "That's because I know all your weak spots," she teased, her tone light and affectionate.
Mike laughed, pulling her around in front of him. "Lucky for you, I don't mind."
They stood together, watching the waves for a moment, enjoying the peacefulness of the shoreline as their friends continued to play in the water.
"You know, Ange… Us playing around in the water… makes me feel like a kid again," Mike said, a nostalgic smile on his face.
Angela rested her head on his shoulder, looking out at the lively scene. "I know what you mean. It's so easy to get lost in the fun and forget about everything else."
Mike chuckled. "Yeah, it's like being carefree again. Just you, me, and the ocean."
Angela's smile widened as she playfully nudged him. "Well, let's make the most of it. We've got the whole day ahead of us."
They both laughed, their spirits lifted by the joy of the beach and the simplicity of the moment.
After a while, everyone dried themselves with their towels and decided to head back to the hotel. The four humans packed their beach gear while the bugs gathered around, ready to return to the cars.
"How's your face, Manny?" Mike asked with a chuckle as they walked toward the parking lot.
Manny rubbed his face with a sheepish smile. "Still a bit sore, but I'll survive. I'll just avoid any more spikes coming my way."
Gypsy patted Manny on the back. "Next time, we'll be more careful."
"Yeah, let's hope so," Manny replied, laughing lightly.
Everyone climbed into the cars, their spirits still high from a fun day at the beach.
Back at the hotel, Mike and Angela stepped into their bedroom, still in their swimsuits. Angela, with a playful smile, gently stroked her fiance's cheek, her fingers lingering. "Why don't you sit on the bed, and I'll get you in the mood for this one," she teased.
Mike then chuckled softly, sitting down as instructed. "And how exactly do you plan on doing that?"
Angela, without a word, turned her back to him and slowly began to sway her hips, shaking her rear with a flirtatious rhythm. Mike's eyes locked onto her movements, drawn in by the playful energy she radiated.
As Angela continued to sway her hips, she glanced over her shoulder with a teasing grin. "Enjoying the view, babe?" she asked, her voice light and flirtatious.
Mike nodded, his gaze never leaving her. "You know I do."
With a smile, Angela took a few slow steps closer to the bed, swaying her hips with each movement. She turned around to face him, her fingers trailing down her sides. "Why don't you help me out of this?" she suggested, tugging lightly at the strings of her bikini top.
Mike's breath hitched, and he reached up, his hands gently undoing the ties. He let the top fall aside as Angela leaned in closer, her lips brushing his ear. "Your turn now," she whispered.
"Hang on, I gotta do the bottoms," Mike said with a playful grin, reaching out to untie the knots on her bikini bottoms.
Angela grinned playfully, turning around so Mike could have full access. "Go ahead," she teased, swaying her hips slightly as she stood in front of him.
Mike reached out, his fingers gently untying the knots on her bikini bottoms. "You make this almost too easy," he said with a smirk as the fabric slipped away. Angela gave a soft laugh, turning back around to face him as she stepped out of the bottoms.
Angela leaned in, pressing her lips against his. "Now it's your turn," she said with a playful glint in her eyes, running her fingers along the waistband of his swim trunks.
"Actually, how about you do it? I helped you out of your bikini. Now you undress me," Mike said, his voice low and playful.
Angela nodded, her fingers brushing lightly over his chest as she moved closer. "Alright," she said softly, beginning to untie his swim trunks with a teasing touch. She slowly slid them down, her eyes locked with his as she revealed him completely.
With a satisfied smile, Angela took a step back and admired her handiwork. "There, all set," she murmured, leaning in for another kiss.
Mike laid on top of Angela on the bed, their bodies pressed close together. They exchanged passionate kisses, their movements becoming more intense as they explored each other's warmth and affection. The room was filled with soft moans and gentle caresses, marking a deeply intimate and loving moment between them.
Meanwhile, David and Lily were in their room, their lips locked in an intense kiss, their hands exploring each other's bodies with equal fervor. Their embrace was heated and passionate, each touch and caress conveying their deep connection and desire. The room was filled with the sounds of their quiet moans, heavy breaths, and the gentle rustle of fabric as they lost themselves in the moment.
David gently traced his fingers around the cutout area of his girlfriend's swimsuit, his touch delicate and lingering. The exposed skin felt warm under his fingertips as he explored the curve of her navel. Lily shivered slightly, a slightly louder moan escaping her lips as she arched into his touch, their passion growing with each tender stroke.
Lily's toes curled with each tender caress as she stroked her boyfriend's chest. Her fingers traced the defined muscles, exploring the contours of his body. David responded with a low murmur, his hands moving to her waist as their kisses deepened. The intimate connection between them grew stronger, fueled by their mutual desire and the soft, lingering touches.
Gypsy and Manny were also in the middle of an intimate moment of their own. Manny was on top of his wife as they made out passionately. Gypsy responded with a quiet moan, her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, pulling him closer. Manny's hands gently caressed her sides as they moved in sync, deepening their connection with every kiss, lost in their passion.
As their kiss grew more fervent, Manny's hands explored his wife's curves, igniting a mutual sense of desire. Gypsy's breath quickened as she pressed herself against him, her fingers gliding over his smooth skin. The room around them seemed to fade away, leaving only their intense closeness and the rhythmic pulse of their emotions. They continued to embrace, each touch and caress amplifying their intimacy, making their shared moment even more profound and meaningful.
Each couple continued to explore each other's bodies and deepen their connection, lost in their passionate embrace for nearly an hour, savoring every moment of their shared intimacy.