iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

- the sound of which spoke louder and clearer than I could with the lump in my throat.

𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

- never felt right… until now… And that realisation should frighten me. I should want to run… but I closed my eyes, my hands moved to hold him as we began to move in time with the music. Not saying another word because he’s picked the perfect song… -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

- in the mirror and saw that lost girl with empty eyes looking back? Collin always knew he belonged, and even with that some part of him kept looking for a face in the sea of people. Never finding the one that fit… and me… I was lost and walking in a live that -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

- I always needed to love, to live in search for a part of me that always felt lost. And I never knew if I would be able to live without moving from place to place. And now… when had been the last time I’d even considered leaving? About running? When was the last time I looked at myself -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

- called to rejoin them downstairs, but I couldn’t stop my mind and heart from jumping back in time. How often had I had this conversation with my dad, or Jenna, and Kenz. How many time had I told them how I felt that I didn’t belong. How my feet never felt stable on the ground at Thompson. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

I hadn’t expected the windfall of emotions and realisations to flood me. However, here we stood. How lips brushed mine, and sure there was a small part of me that was fully aware that we were standing in Collin’s parents home. And that any moment now we could be -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

- which to describe the warmth in my heart. Until…. “Wait… who are you imagining in this home with you?” Until his words rang true in my mind again. ‘𝙄𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙, 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.’ “Me…. You imagine me in this home with you and Nova?”

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

- Who thinks that far ahead for a person who isn’t even in their life yet.” It was a rhetorical question. “Someone who has a dream they want to share.” Biting the corner of my lip, my hands moved to rest over his around my waist. “I just…” I couldn’t find the words in -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

- Right?” It came so naturally to tease and play with him. Everything came so naturally and without for thought. And not in a bad way too. “It’s beautiful, Collin…” eyes moving over the aspects he highlighted. “The location, the design, the porch, even the garage. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

- So much thought had gone into it, the changes he’d made over the time span made me smile to myself. “Uhm…” leaning back into his hold, resting my head into his as he held me. “What you mean to say is ‘That is the only correct way for spices to be kept.’ -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

Why did those words make my heart flutter like a million butterflies were ready to fly freely? Was it the meaning behind them? Or was it his close proximity to me? Or even the way his arms engulfed me right now, as my eyes took in the image of Collin’s dream home before me. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- And then I stood to turn again. My eyes catching on the wall again. Tilting my head to the side as one of the drawings caught my attention. It called out to me. That tug in my chest was back. The one that drew me closed to Collin… However this time it was to the drawing… -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- on there. He really did love what he did. It wasn’t hard to see it. Turning on my feet, my dress moved with me as I faced his bed. Seeing the hand crafted dream catcher, leaning down to take a closer glance at the totem beside the lamp. “So pretty and delicate.” Whispering to myself. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- shelved. A soft chuckle escaping my lips. And then I bite down on them. I walked to the desk…. Once again take note of things set on it, and the way his things were looked after. Care was taken with them. At how his awards were placed with pride. Smiling as I noticed the corkboard and the plans-

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- A baby…. A toddler… A young child…. A teenager… Cousins… Friends…. Sister…. All those memories on his walled as I took small steps around the perimeter. My fingers danced over the spines of the books, leaning in to read the titles, the authors names, and then realising how they were-

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- own history until later in their respective relationships. So… I felt honoured to be trusted. I didn’t say anything. Not a word as Collin kissed my hand dropping it to step back. I didn’t have to glance towards him to know he was giving my time and space to see into his past. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- With our hands entwined we stepped into his room, and I couldn’t help feeling privileged. This was something my friends had missed out on when it came to their partner. “The missing piece”, as Jenna had called it. Both Seth and Dam had come into their lives, they had been so far away from their -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

- looking family! Ana had the same eyes as Collin, and I was sure anyone could see the resemblance. Seeing the art work, to the way his mom had decorated. Everything in these walls spoke of a childhood filled with love. A family together, dealing with whatever challenges they faced hand in hand.

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

Following him without questioning felt so comfortable, I was an inquisitive person by nature, however listening felt more natural than asking for more information. We walked step in step, as though in solidarity, exploring Collin’s family home. My gaze moved over the photos they were a very good -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 14/11/2025

- your mom and dad that is. And you too.” Something giddy came over me. The knowledge that I could see into Collin’s past, to learn about this wonderful man I was feeling so close too. It was enlightening.

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 14/11/2025

- they and their son made me want to have more days like this. It was new. The thought came and was pushed away at how in another lifetime I’d have found reasons to run away. Now I felt grounded. His mom’s voice broke me free making me nod. “Of course I would love a tour. If it is okay with -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 14/11/2025

All those small touches, the kisses, the way our bodies found ways to connect, the warmth coming from him making my cheek redden even when there was no reason. It all spoke volumes. I hadn’t stopped smiling since walking into his parents home. This easy way I sat here in their living room, as -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 04/10/2025

- and check in. Nova placed a paw on my knee, asking for my attention, which I gave her openly. “Sorry baby girl, I am not giving you the correct amount of attention? Let’s fix that.” Rubbing her behind her ear as I gazed down to her and then back up to her dad.

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 04/10/2025

- seeing into your family’s home. Even if there was more to our relationship. It still hade to be something in his mind to fear, right? “Do you think I’m making a good impression on them?” I could feel they were easy to read people just as my dad and I were. However, it didn’t hurt to ask -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 04/10/2025

- “I couldn’t have asked for a better first impression.” His family were doing their best to make me feel comfortable and welcomed. “How are you doing?” I asked back. “Still glad you brought me into your family home?” The question genuine. It was a big step forward to bring someone you are -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 04/10/2025

- the door his parents had gone through. “Your mom is delightful, as is your dad. They love you and want the best for you. I cannot hold that against them. They want to make sure you are making the right choices when it comes to who you are dating.” I knew they didn’t know the full story... yet. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 04/10/2025

My hand moved to rub the baby girl’s nose as Collin kissed my cheek. “We are doing just fine. Well… Actually… more than better.” Lifting my free hand to show him how stable it was. “See not even shaking or anything as dramatic.” Leaning my shoulder into his side, my gaze moved towards -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> My eyes widened as the rose scent began permeating. “Oh… my… this is delicious!” The expression on my face filled with happiness.

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> “I don’t believe all… however I have met some.” I answered truthfully.” Glancing up at Collin, unsure if I’d said something I wasn’t aware I shouldn’t have shared. ‘Aren’t they all so kind?’ His mom took a sip from her glass. And I followed her lead. >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> I wasn’t sure about that man at first, however after speaking to him and spending time with him. I’d seen him in a new light. “All of Collin’s friends I’ve met are lovely people.” ‘You’ve met all our son’s friends?’ Kevin Littlesea ask with an eyebrow raised. >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> ‘I’m sure you can. Our Leah isn’t one for inflation of egos. So, she knew what she was saying.’ This made me laugh nervously. “In which case I best place a cheque in the post to her.” Making myself laugh again. “It was an enjoyable night. And Embry Call was a general men.” >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> “I’m sorry…. My mind drifted away.” I told them honestly. ‘Oh don’t you worry. You will come to find our madness endearing.’ She pats my lap. Repeating her question. Which of course made me blush. “I’m not sure I can take that much credit…” I started. >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> Collin’s mom about our shared love of books, to hearing these stories which only made me learn about this man I… cared for in a new light. I was so lost in my thoughts that I hadn’t notice when all three of the Littlesea’s had stopped speaking to look at me. >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

> their banter easing, and conversation. Their mannerisms, the way in which they spoke to one another, it felt so…. Real… it followed without needing to stop, and I couldn’t stop myself from smiling. My heart felt so full in this short space of time, from talking to >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 07/09/2025

The moment Collin came to stand beside me that tug in my heart disappeared. It was a constant reminder of how I had begun to miss his presence when we were apart. Something new I’d had to come to terms with. Taking the glass of ice tea my eyes darted from Littlesea, to Littlesea. Following >

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- Sitting with her seemed to fall into an easy comfortable conversation making what little worries I had melt away.

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- I agreed. “You love to read too?” We spoke about the books she enjoyed, we spoke about how Collin, and my paths first crossed, how I was ready to give him a piece of my mind, however how I’d misjudged the situation. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- Making my eyes widen with shock, my cheek flush and my head drop to hide my face. ‘It’s okay dear. I think it’s brilliant to have a little tension. They make for the best kind of meet-cute, don’t you agree?’ This made me realise that Jessica had to be the little bird. “Yes… they really do.” -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- “Your son has been an amazing friend to me. He and Nova were just the people I needed when we met.” Her eyes glistened, making me squeeze back. ‘I hear from a little bird, he didn’t make the best first impression.’ She teased. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- and chuckle before he disappeared too. My eyes followed Collin until he disappeared, then I felt her hand over mine on my lap. ‘I so love seeing how happy my son has become since he mentioned you.’ My cheeks blushed hot, as my gaze fell on our hands as she squeezed it. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- However, by the reaction giving you could be forgiven for mistaking my gifts as the Crown Jewels of the King of England. ‘You really shouldn’t have my dear.’ Mrs Littlesea said. ‘But, we will enjoy it all, now that you did.’ Mr Littlesea called out with a kind wink -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

- The house coming to life all around me, it felt full! You know… that feeling you have when you find yourself content with the place you’re occupying with those you have a connection with? Yes. That is the feeling I felt. The gift bag placed on the coffee table, I explained when I have brought.

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 30/08/2025

“I’m happy with whatever everyone is having, thank you.” Answering Collin’s question giving both the fur babies a rub under their chins, before being whisked away by his mom again, the smile on my lips growing. It all felt as though my feet with dancing on air. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 28/07/2025

- Maybe she could tell I wasn’t ready to let go just yet. My gaze shifted to Collin as his parents teased one another. Sniffing back those pesky tears which came out of nowhere before they fell and gave the worst impression. However the sight of his ear, made my chuckle. -

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𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙚𝙚 𝙅𝙚𝙣𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨 @uptightvet.bsky.social · 28/07/2025

- Give me a chance to say hello too.’ The voice was known to me. “Hello Mr Littlesea. It’s nice to see you again.” I said when Collin’s mom and I parted. ‘Don’t be mean to me, husband. I could hug this young lady all day long.’ She kept an arm around my waist. -

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