Nature with Nelly - part three added 21 Feb.

[Kiwifruit]

This was scribbled out after a similar dream I had. I've been wanting some writing practice, so where better to get that than with some nice fetish fiction, huh? Bear with me, it has been many a year since I have written much, but fingers crossed this will be fun for both me and any readers. 

 

The virgin blanket of snow crunched as Jenelle's boots broke its surface. Her heightened breathing puffed white clouds, carried away by the breeze. Two hawks wheeled overhead in the luxuriously blue sky, a cry echoing off the distant mountains. 
"I'm approaching the peak now," said Jenelle, "you can see the crest just up ahead. There should be a gorgeous view from there, I was looking at...at - heh-choo!" A sniffle, a giggle. "Sorry guys, I have a bit of a cold right now. Perfect weather for it, eh? Anyway, as I was saying -"

David paused the video, dragged the timer back a short way and pressed play.

"...should be a gorgeous view from there, I was looking at...at - heh-choo!" A sniffle, a giggle. "Sorry guys, I have a bit of a cold right now-"

David's heart was thumping. He had never heard Jenelle's sneeze before - she edited the YouTube videos of her head-mounted camera footage to only include the highlights of her hikes, so he assumed she normally cut them out. It was adorable though - breathy and feminine but she didn't hold back, you could hear her need in it. 

He blinked. You could hear her need in it? What was that even supposed to mean? He shook himself. It was cute, sure, but it was just a sneeze. Still, he couldn't help but replay the footage one last time. He noticed the extra large burst of breath created a bigger cloud of mist in the chilly air, visible despite the jerk of the camera as she sneezed. Her sniffle afterwards didn't sound too congested, and her voice was normal - he hadn't noticed anything wrong until that point of the video, anyway. She mustn't be too sick. Still...

"...I have a bit of a cold right now. Perfect weather for it, huh?"

Jenelle was right- it must be freezing on the snow-covered mountain. He couldn't think of more "cold" weather than the chilly landscape shared in the video. Surely it couldn't be healthy to go hiking in such conditions while sick? 

David sighed, shaking his head at his worries. She'd be fine by now, she'd completed the hike more than a week prior, even though the final video product had only been posted today. Even so, the hint of vulnerability made him feel oddly protective of her.

"Probably due to my flaming crush," he muttered wryly. He'd been a follower of Jenelle's channel, Nature with Nelly, since its early days, as an avid - though amateur - fan of hiking. She made a living selling photography of the beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna she encountered, running the educational YouTube channel on the side as a hobby. He had faithfully commented on every one of her videos, and on the earlier ones, she had always replied and they exchanged the occasional chat. These days she received too many comments for it to be practical for her to respond to them all. However, she still often sent him a message of thanks for his feedback and to exchange pleasantries and bits of news. David had quickly become enamoured with her but was careful never to betray it - he didn't want to make her uncomfortable. After all, he was just some random guy from the internet to her. 

He continued watching the video. The view from the peak was indeed gorgeous: a valley encircled by mountains with a frozen lake in the centre. Jenelle continued chattering on about safety while hiking in snowy conditions, pointing out signs of wildlife and discussing the plants that would show themselves with the approaching spring. She sniffled here and there, but there were no more sneezes until the very end. 

"Well folks, I'm pooped so I'm going to set up camp and have a good nap! Remember to respect our beautiful planet and - oh...heh-ishoo!" Again the burst of breath clouding the air, the cute little sniff and giggle. "And, er, remember to cover your mouth when you sneeze, I guess! Goodbye!"

The video ended. David caught himself smiling. Remember to cover your mouth when you sneeze, huh? She certainly hadn't, with that huge gust of breath visible in the frosty air! Not that it really mattered, since she was alone, but the hypocrisy amused him. Once more, not really knowing why, he replayed the final few seconds of the video. Her sneeze was adorable. 

He typed up a comment replying to her video. "Beautiful hike, Nelly! I bet you appreciated a hot cup of tea after slogging through all that snow. I hope you're all better from your cold now!"

He had barely closed the tab when a notification popped up from YouTube - he had a new message from Jenelle. He reopened the tab and clicked on the notification. 

Thanks Dave! I did have a cup of tea after I set up my tent and it was lovely. I don't think I've ever appreciated one more! My throat was sore from talking in all the dry air while a bit sick so it helped a lot. I'm mostly better now though!"
--
"Glad to hear you're better (or almost). Look after yourself. I prescribe a cup of tea every four hours as needed!"
--
"Yessir, Doctor Dave! I'll get right on that! Though my kettle is broken right now :("

They continued to banter for a few more messages. It had always been like this between them: some friendly chat, updates on big life changes and Jenelle answering his occasional hiking questions, but nothing too deep. David wasn't really sure where he stood with her. Did she consider him to be anything more than a loyal fan? He almost felt like he knew her well enough now to call her a friend, but he had heard so many tales of creepy guys online from his sister that he was afraid to be too forward. So her latest message took him quite by surprise.

"I'm actually thinking I might head to Australia soon. I have a client wanting to do a down under piece, they're after some shots of the traditional Aussie lot: kangaroos, koalas, all those sorts. That's your neck of the woods, right? Any location tips or better yet, you willing to be a tour guide? Haha."
--
"Yes, I'm in Victoria, I can absolutely tell you about some places I think you could get some amazing shots! If you're serious about the tour guide thing then of course I can show you around, though I warn you I might be a bit starstruck to actually see my favourite content creator in person."
--
"Oh wow, you would? I wasn't really thinking you'd be interested, but I would be eternally grateful! I do solitary treks so much, it would be nice to shake up the pace, especially with someone who knows the local area."

His hands were shaking as they agreed she would let him know when her flight was booked and said goodbye. He was actually going to meet his idol - and get to show her around! 

And maybe... just maybe... he might get to witness her adorable sneeze in person. 

 

 

Yes, I know you can't send a private message on YouTube anymore, I don't care I'm probably also showing my age here since I didn't use TikTok or whatever is actually cool these days lol.)

Edited February 21, 2022 by Kiwifruit

[CantDoThisAnymore]

I love it, a great setup for a potential 2nd chapter. Please continue with it if that’s your plan. And thanks for sharing with us!

[Chiguy]

Very cool premise.

[Nspringthorpe321]

Yeah this, this is good. Can relate to this. Heart racing when you see your YouTube crush have a cold or just sneeze in general. Please continue, it's fantastic.

[deadaccount]

This was so cute! I hope you continue!

[webmeistro]

This looks like it could be fun!

[Motgen]

This has so much potential - fantastic start!

[sneezyfeather338]

This sounds awesome! It’s a great opening for what’s to come. I’m excited for the sneezing, but also the potential romance in the air. I look forward to the next update. 😍🥰😘

[JustReading]

This is so cute, I love it

[WildSneezer]

Great start. Hope you continue 😄

[Kiwifruit]

Part Two

Thank you so much for the replies everyone! I didn’t expect such a favourable response, but every comment is like a surprise $10 found in a pocket! They make my day. I hope you all like this next part too. My stories are typically pretty light on the sneezes compared to others on here, but each of them gets a lot of attention and is worked into the story in more detail, so hopefully that’s what you guys enjoy…

 

The plane trundled closer to the terminal, its bulk slowly turning until the doors faced the glass through which David watched. Try as he might, he couldn’t make out more than vague silhouettes through the reflective plane windows.

Workers in bright yellow vests moved steel stairs into place in front of the plane doors, which then opened and began to disgorge passengers onto the tarmac. David’s heart gave a little leap every time a new person emerged into the sunlight, waiting, waiting…

And then, there she was. Petite and slim, Jenelle wore olive cargo pants, a black t-shirt and toted a small suitcase behind her. As she stepped through the doorway, the sunlight illuminated her clear skin and long, dark ponytail – like a spotlight just for her, David thought. She paused as if aware of this, her face tilted towards the sun. David admired her as she stood, but started to wonder what she was doing as the passengers behind her began to jostle and crane their necks to see what the hold up was. He barely registered her open mouth and wrinkled nose before she snapped forward, lunging into her elbow in what was unmistakably a sneeze, even if the sound didn’t carry through the thick plate glass of the terminal. She convulsed again, almost straightened then caught a sudden last attack in her cupped hands. She looked embarrassed, said something over her shoulder to the people behind her and at last began to descend the steps.

David stood rooted to the spot. His heart was pounding and something furled deep in his belly, making his knees go weak with longing.  He released a breath he hadn’t realised he was holding. The sun made her sneeze? She. Was. Adorable. He wiped his sweaty palms on his shorts, licking his lips – he was even more nervous than he had thought to meet her. What had gotten into him? She was just another person, just a woman who made fascinating mini-documentaries, who was more beautiful in person than in her videos, who was witty and sweet and so intelligent and –

“Oh, stop it,” David growled. He gave himself a slight shake as Jenelle moved out of his point of view and turned to head to the baggage claim, where he would actually meet her. He found the screen over the conveyer belt that proclaimed FLIGHT QF628 – BRISBANE TO MELBOURNE and leaned against a pole to wait. Then stood straight and put his hands in his pockets. Then crossed his arms. Leaned back against the pole. He felt awkward and the opposite of the casual air he was going for. Oh, grow up, he berated himself, you’re like a teenager meeting a first date. This isn’t even a date! She’s a friend I’m going to show around for a few days. Simple.

Luckily for his nerves, Jenelle was one of the first people to arrive at the baggage claim, emerging from the stairwell just as the first pieces of luggage were trundling past. She looked around expectantly, her eyes lighting up when they landed on where David was leaning against the pole with one shoulder, his other hand tucked in his pocket.

“Dave!” She exclaimed, hurrying forward and almost tripping over her suitcase in delight. David stood up straight and grinned back, reaching out to – give her a hug? Shake her hand? Take her suitcase like a gentleman?

She solved his quandary by throwing her own arms around his neck, pecking him on the cheek she could barely reach. He returned her friendly hug, hoping she couldn’t feel his heart racing almost painfully fast. “Nelly, it’s great to see you!” At least his voice was steady. He breathed in deeply, inhaling her scent, vaguely reminiscent of vanilla. She was warm, and soft, and the hair cascading down from her ponytail was silky smooth and -

She pulled away and grinned up at him, tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear. “Oh, it’s so good to finally meet you! I never expected to actually get to see you in person. I go all over the world and it’s amazing but most of the people I meet are only temporary connections, you know? But we’ve been chatting for years and now, well, here you are! Anyway, I’m babbling, I’m sorry, I’m just really tired from the flight –“ She cut herself off with a giggle, her fingers over her mouth.

David was chuckling, his nerves easing. Jenelle’s naturally bubbly personality shone through her videos but, maybe due to her editing and being in her element, she usually spoke calmly and confidently about her subjects. He had never heard her chatter on quite so quickly, but her excitement was contagious and appeared to match his own. Her Canadian lilt was lighter in person than what came through in her videos, but still made his heart flutter. “It’s kind of surreal, isn’t it?” he offered. “Seeing you go from a voice and face on a screen to, well, right here – it’s pretty cool.” Pretty cool? He winced internally. “Here – let me take that for you. Point out your bag when you see it and I’ll grab that as well.”

Jenelle gave up her suitcase to him, looking relieved. “Thank you! I tell you what, no matter how often I do it, I will never get used to flying for so long. I’m longing for a cup of tea and a proper bed. Oh – there it is!” She pointed towards an enormous, dark green duffel bag slowly wending its way towards them. David walked over and removed it from the conveyor. Jenelle bounced after him and immediately started fumbling with the cord, stripping off the duffel bag to reveal a large rucksack inside. “Chuck it down here for a sec, I need to make sure everything is okay…”

David watched as she performed a smooth and obviously practiced check, undoing the straps she’d wound around the backpack, running her hands over some of the pockets and quickly unzipping others to check the contents. She redid the final zip with a sigh of relief and patted the pack affectionately. “All good! I always worry a bit when I check it in, but it’s too large to carry on.”

David easily donned the large pack and grabbed the handle of the suitcase again. “Let’s go get you that cup of tea, shall we? I’m parked this way.”

They headed down a large, glass tunnel towards the carpark, David asking about her journey and Jenelle regaling him with tales about the disappointing vegetarian meal options and the impressive in-flight views of Australia’s vast outback.

Halfway down the tunnel, the shadow became dazzling sunlight as the early morning sun beamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows. David squinted against the light and continued walking, but Jenelle stopped with a gasp. David turned to see what was up.

“Oh-! H-hold on, I –“ She sucked in a desperate breath and buckled forward. “CHEW! Hehhh…ISSSHoo!” She blinked dazedly, holding her hands cupped just in front of her face as she considered if she was done, her nostrils flaring slightly. She gave a light sniffle and giggled, lowering her hands and glancing at David abashedly. “Sorry – the sun always gets me!” She continued to trot after him, wiping her hands on her pants. “Oh, man, you should have seen when we arrived, the sun was so bright after being on the plane and I had to sneeze so bad. I couldn’t start going down the stairs until it happened but it took a few moments and the people behind me were getting annoyed. Pretty embarrassing!”

David felt his face grow warm as she chattered about her earlier sneeze attack, unaware that he had witnessed it. Somehow it felt too embarrassing to say that he had been watching – akin to telling her he had spied on her changing clothes or something. He swallowed and prayed his voice would come out normally. “That sounds awkward for you. But you couldn’t exactly help it. People are always grumpy after a long flight!”

They made it to David’s LandCruiser without further incident and he loaded her luggage into the boot before joining her in the front.

“Your motel is about forty-five minutes from here,” said David as he set the GPS. “Shall we head through a drive through for your tea or would you rather go straight there?”

“Oh, tea first, please! Then I can go to sleep for the next, oh, sixteen hours or so and be bright and fresh for you to show me the wildlife of Australia tomorrow!"

They kept up an easy chatter as David drove them away from the airport, Jenelle’s frequent genuine laughter reassuring David that he wasn’t boring her. Their connection seemed as strong in real life as it had been online, relaxing his nerves but only stoking the fires of his blazing crush. He hoped she would have excellent photography opportunities over the next few days, but more than that, he wished she would have a good time and enjoy seeing some of the country he loved so much.

 

 

I’m always interested in feedback, positive or negative, and if you have any preferences or requests feel free to make them known and I’ll do my best to incorporate them (though no promises, sometimes my subconsciousness decides on its own which direction the story will go in…)!

Edited January 25, 2022 by Kiwifruit

[CantDoThisAnymore]

Kiwifruit, my heart skipped a beat when I saw part 2 posted - and it did not disappoint. I actually really like the fact that the story isn’t totally sneeze-driven, it makes each one even better.

I’m interested to see if Jenelle has any kind of allergic reaction to the kinds of wildlife or flora/fauna that can only be found in Australia. But I’m sure I’ll enjoy whatever comes next, as you are a very talented writer. Thanks again for sharing your gift with us!

[Motgen]

Very happy you're continuing this - love the way you write! Both of these characters are real people I feel I know, but somehow it doesn't take away from the sneezing aspect of it at all. Keep going!

[JustReading]

This is really sweet!

[anna]

This is really good, excited for it to continue!

[ryan0805]

Part2 is so great! Can’t wait to see the next part👍

[ID2006]

Really like this although I really hope he starts blessing her. 

[EveP]

This is so good! I keep hoping for an update every time I log in to the forum. 🙂

[NocturneOwlBoy]

On 1/25/2022 at 2:52 PM, Kiwifruit said:

Part Two

Thank you so much for the replies everyone! I didn’t expect such a favourable response, but every comment is like a surprise $10 found in a pocket! They make my day. I hope you all like this next part too. My stories are typically pretty light on the sneezes compared to others on here, but each of them gets a lot of attention and is worked into the story in more detail, so hopefully that’s what you guys enjoy…

 

The plane trundled closer to the terminal, its bulk slowly turning until the doors faced the glass through which David watched. Try as he might, he couldn’t make out more than vague silhouettes through the reflective plane windows.

Workers in bright yellow vests moved steel stairs into place in front of the plane doors, which then opened and began to disgorge passengers onto the tarmac. David’s heart gave a little leap every time a new person emerged into the sunlight, waiting, waiting…

And then, there she was. Petite and slim, Jenelle wore olive cargo pants, a black t-shirt and toted a small suitcase behind her. As she stepped through the doorway, the sunlight illuminated her clear skin and long, dark ponytail – like a spotlight just for her, David thought. She paused as if aware of this, her face tilted towards the sun. David admired her as she stood, but started to wonder what she was doing as the passengers behind her began to jostle and crane their necks to see what the hold up was. He barely registered her open mouth and wrinkled nose before she snapped forward, lunging into her elbow in what was unmistakably a sneeze, even if the sound didn’t carry through the thick plate glass of the terminal. She convulsed again, almost straightened then caught a sudden last attack in her cupped hands. She looked embarrassed, said something over her shoulder to the people behind her and at last began to descend the steps.

David stood rooted to the spot. His heart was pounding and something furled deep in his belly, making his knees go weak with longing.  He released a breath he hadn’t realised he was holding. The sun made her sneeze? She. Was. Adorable. He wiped his sweaty palms on his shorts, licking his lips – he was even more nervous than he had thought to meet her. What had gotten into him? She was just another person, just a woman who made fascinating mini-documentaries, who was more beautiful in person than in her videos, who was witty and sweet and so intelligent and –

“Oh, stop it,” David growled. He gave himself a slight shake as Jenelle moved out of his point of view and turned to head to the baggage claim, where he would actually meet her. He found the screen over the conveyer belt that proclaimed FLIGHT QF628 – BRISBANE TO MELBOURNE and leaned against a pole to wait. Then stood straight and put his hands in his pockets. Then crossed his arms. Leaned back against the pole. He felt awkward and the opposite of the casual air he was going for. Oh, grow up, he berated himself, you’re like a teenager meeting a first date. This isn’t even a date! She’s a friend I’m going to show around for a few days. Simple.

Luckily for his nerves, Jenelle was one of the first people to arrive at the baggage claim, emerging from the stairwell just as the first pieces of luggage were trundling past. She looked around expectantly, her eyes lighting up when they landed on where David was leaning against the pole with one shoulder, his other hand tucked in his pocket.

“Dave!” She exclaimed, hurrying forward and almost tripping over her suitcase in delight. David stood up straight and grinned back, reaching out to – give her a hug? Shake her hand? Take her suitcase like a gentleman?

She solved his quandary by throwing her own arms around his neck, pecking him on the cheek she could barely reach. He returned her friendly hug, hoping she couldn’t feel his heart racing almost painfully fast. “Nelly, it’s great to see you!” At least his voice was steady. He breathed in deeply, inhaling her scent, vaguely reminiscent of vanilla. She was warm, and soft, and the hair cascading down from her ponytail was silky smooth and -

She pulled away and grinned up at him, tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear. “Oh, it’s so good to finally meet you! I never expected to actually get to see you in person. I go all over the world and it’s amazing but most of the people I meet are only temporary connections, you know? But we’ve been chatting for years and now, well, here you are! Anyway, I’m babbling, I’m sorry, I’m just really tired from the flight –“ She cut herself off with a giggle, her fingers over her mouth.

David was chuckling, his nerves easing. Jenelle’s naturally bubbly personality shone through her videos but, maybe due to her editing and being in her element, she usually spoke calmly and confidently about her subjects. He had never heard her chatter on quite so quickly, but her excitement was contagious and appeared to match his own. Her Canadian lilt was lighter in person than what came through in her videos, but still made his heart flutter. “It’s kind of surreal, isn’t it?” he offered. “Seeing you go from a voice and face on a screen to, well, right here – it’s pretty cool.” Pretty cool? He winced internally. “Here – let me take that for you. Point out your bag when you see it and I’ll grab that as well.”

Jenelle gave up her suitcase to him, looking relieved. “Thank you! I tell you what, no matter how often I do it, I will never get used to flying for so long. I’m longing for a cup of tea and a proper bed. Oh – there it is!” She pointed towards an enormous, dark green duffel bag slowly wending its way towards them. David walked over and removed it from the conveyor. Jenelle bounced after him and immediately started fumbling with the cord, stripping off the duffel bag to reveal a large rucksack inside. “Chuck it down here for a sec, I need to make sure everything is okay…”

David watched as she performed a smooth and obviously practiced check, undoing the straps she’d wound around the backpack, running her hands over some of the pockets and quickly unzipping others to check the contents. She redid the final zip with a sigh of relief and patted the pack affectionately. “All good! I always worry a bit when I check it in, but it’s too large to carry on.”

David easily donned the large pack and grabbed the handle of the suitcase again. “Let’s go get you that cup of tea, shall we? I’m parked this way.”

They headed down a large, glass tunnel towards the carpark, David asking about her journey and Jenelle regaling him with tales about the disappointing vegetarian meal options and the impressive in-flight views of Australia’s vast outback.

Halfway down the tunnel, the shadow became dazzling sunlight as the early morning sun beamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows. David squinted against the light and continued walking, but Jenelle stopped with a gasp. David turned to see what was up.

“Oh-! H-hold on, I –“ She sucked in a desperate breath and buckled forward. “CHEW! Hehhh…ISSSHoo!” She blinked dazedly, holding her hands cupped just in front of her face as she considered if she was done, her nostrils flaring slightly. She gave a light sniffle and giggled, lowering her hands and glancing at David abashedly. “Sorry – the sun always gets me!” She continued to trot after him, wiping her hands on her pants. “Oh, man, you should have seen when we arrived, the sun was so bright after being on the plane and I had to sneeze so bad. I couldn’t start going down the stairs until it happened but it took a few moments and the people behind me were getting annoyed. Pretty embarrassing!”

David felt his face grow warm as she chattered about her earlier sneeze attack, unaware that he had witnessed it. Somehow it felt too embarrassing to say that he had been watching – akin to telling her he had spied on her changing clothes or something. He swallowed and prayed his voice would come out normally. “That sounds awkward for you. But you couldn’t exactly help it. People are always grumpy after a long flight!”

They made it to David’s LandCruiser without further incident and he loaded her luggage into the boot before joining her in the front.

“Your motel is about forty-five minutes from here,” said David as he set the GPS. “Shall we head through a drive through for your tea or would you rather go straight there?”

“Oh, tea first, please! Then I can go to sleep for the next, oh, sixteen hours or so and be bright and fresh for you to show me the wildlife of Australia tomorrow!"

They kept up an easy chatter as David drove them away from the airport, Jenelle’s frequent genuine laughter reassuring David that he wasn’t boring her. Their connection seemed as strong in real life as it had been online, relaxing his nerves but only stoking the fires of his blazing crush. He hoped she would have excellent photography opportunities over the next few days, but more than that, he wished she would have a good time and enjoy seeing some of the country he loved so much.

 

 

I’m always interested in feedback, positive or negative, and if you have any preferences or requests feel free to make them known and I’ll do my best to incorporate them (though no promises, sometimes my subconsciousness decides on its own which direction the story will go in…)!

I'm loving this one so much! a story that I can be emotionally attached to, as well as one where the sneeze scenarios are very well-realised. It would be interesting to see it mixed among other more traditional scenarios, such as Jenelle reacting to pepper or spices specific to Australia. Thank you for the great writing, can't wait for part 3!

 

On 1/25/2022 at 4:42 PM, Mikesfet said:

Kiwifruit, my heart skipped a beat when I saw part 2 posted - and it did not disappoint. I actually really like the fact that the story isn’t totally sneeze-driven, it makes each one even better.

I’m interested to see if Jenelle has any kind of allergic reaction to the kinds of wildlife or flora/fauna that can only be found in Australia. But I’m sure I’ll enjoy whatever comes next, as you are a very talented writer. Thanks again for sharing your gift with us!

I second this for the future as well!

 

[sneezyfeather338]

Hey Kiwifruit, I love the newest chapter. The budding romance is definitely cute. But I’m really excited about the sneezing caused by the sun. I wonder if any bright lights will make her sneeze? Can’t wait to find out. 😍🥰😘

[Kiwifruit]

Omigosh you guys have left some of the loveliest comments!!! I'm really touched at the time you've taken to express appreciation, it makes my day every time. I've actually had this next part 85% written for the last few weeks but I was called in to finally have an elective surgery that was postponed due to the, er, global situation. So I've been recovering from that but am now painkiller free and clear-headed enough to write again! So, on with David and Jenelle's story...

 

The next day dawned not overly hot but sunny – hopefully perfect weather for some outdoor photography, David hoped. He picked up Jenelle from her motel at 8am and took her to a café he knew made good vegetarian breakfasts she could try. Afterwards they made good time heading out to a more rural region David knew where she could get some excellent shots among uninterrupted, rolling hills.  

“Oh, wow!” Jenelle laughed. They had just crested a hill and before them appeared dozens of kangaroos, sprawling comfortably in the shade and nibbling on the grass. “I can’t believe you just have these guys right here, we’re not that far outside city limits!” 

David grinned at her as he parked the car under the shade of a large willow bottlebrush tree. “There are big groups of them pretty much within city limits too, but here you’ll have a much better backdrop.” 

Once out of the car, David retrieved a paper bag of brown pellets from the back and held it out to show Jenelle. “Want to make some friends?” 

Her face was comical. She looked puzzled, then amazed, then horrified, followed quickly by stern disapproval. “David Morgan! You want to feed them? That’s like…rule number one of ethical wildlife photography, that you don’t disturb them!” 

David grinned at her. “Ah yes, I do recall you mentioning that a few times on YouTube. Then again, you also say it’s important to follow local customs while travelling and this is something I do routinely. All Aussies have fed a kangaroo at some point.” 

Jenelle scowled. “It’s not good for them to feed them foods that aren’t part of their natural diet.” 

“This is their natural diet. Hay, and…er, stuff…not sure exactly, but it’s from a sanctuary. They sell them so people can feed the kangaroos. These are specialist designed to satisfy the most gourmet kangaroo.” 

Jenelle’s expression broke and a reluctant grin showed through. “Okay, fine, but you’re a terrible influence. Don’t tell my subscribers.” 

- - -

Jenelle slowly reached out and scratched the kangaroo between the ears. It blinked its huge doe eyes at her, seemingly indifferent to her ministrations, until she pulled her hand away. Then it moved its head closer to her and made a loud snuffling noise. 

“She likes you,” David chuckled. “Here, giver her some of these…”  

Jenelle took a fistful of pellets and held them out with a flat palm. The kangaroo contemplated her offering for a few seconds, then delicately snuffled them up. 

“Oh, its lips are so soft!” Jenelle breathed. Her eyes were alight and her mouth parted slightly in wonder. David watched her, feeling a warm glow of contentment. He had been able to provide her with a memorable experience.  

Jenelle sniffed slightly and slowly shifted to bring her other hand up and rub at her nose. Once the kangaroo had finished her palmful of food and started snuffing around for more, she stood and backed away. “I think the dust is getting to me. My nose itches. Do you have any tissues?” 

“Oh, er…not on me, no. I think I have some napkins in the car.” 

Jenelle gave a bigger sniffle and scrubbed harder at her nose. “That’s where mine are too. Damn, I’m going to…uh oh…will it scare the kangaroos if I sneeze?” She looked blearily at David through half-squinted eyes, her nostrils flaring slightly.  

David shrugged, glancing at the nearby doe. “I doubt it, they’re pretty placid…maybe muffle it with your elbow or something?” 

Jenelle shook her head, sniffed her hardest yet and scrunched up her nose. “No, I think I can wait. Let’s just head towards the car.” 

“That’s some impressive self-control,” observed David as they began walking back.  

“Eh, practice. Sometimes it doesn’t work too well, but when I’ve been staking out a waterhole or whatever for hours, I’m hardly going to scare the animals off by sneezing if I can avoid it!” 

“We’re far enough away now, I’m sure you can go ahead now.” 

Jenelle shook her head again. “No, I don’t think I need to now, though I do really have to blow my nose – OH!” She stopped dead. 

“What? What is it?” David asked in alarm, looking around for a snake or other danger. 

Jenelle pointed. “Oh, look, it’s so teeny!” 

Following her gaze, he saw a small kangaroo lying in the shade of a tree among several others. What distinguished this one was the tiny head of a joey sticking out of its pouch. David laughed softly in relief. “You scared me there! Want to go say hello?” 

“We can approach the ones with babies?” Jenelle looked torn between following his suggestion and leaving the mother and baby in peace. “Surely she wouldn’t be okay with that? Is it even safe?” 

“Sure, come on.” David headed over to the kangaroo with Jenelle trailing behind. He rustled the bag of pellets and took a few out as he went. The kangaroo perked up its ears and half sat up, the joey twisting to look in their direction as well. 

“Ooooh, it’s the cutest little thing,” Jenelle breathed, kneeling next to David as he fed the animal. He offered her the bag and she took some feed out to offer, allowing the mother kangaroo to get to know her before she started softly stroking its side. The joey seemed perfectly content to observe from the comfort of its mothers pouch. David slowly stretched out a finger, watching for any signs of upset, and when none came he tickled the baby under its chin. 

“David, you may have corrupted my morals but I think it may have been worth it.” Jenelle began to scratch the mother kangaroo’s neck, who stretched out lazily, seeming to enjoy the attention.  

A minute or so passed before Jenelle gasped softly and clapped a hand to her face. David glanced at her, puzzled. Her eyes were screwed shut and her hand was tightly pressed to the underside of her nose.  

“What’s wrong?” 

She stumbled to her feet and backed off a few steps. Her breath hitched once, twice – and she whirled around and sneezed, muffling it as best as she could with her hand. “Hh-CHHFFF! Ugh…” 

David tossed a few more pellets onto the ground before the kangaroo and stood to follow her. “Bless you. You okay?” 

Jenelle remained facing away, her hand still over her facing, taking deep, shuddering breaths. “Sorry, I…I’m afraid I’m gonna…sneeze again…” 

“Go ahead and sneeze. The roos don’t care,” encouraged David. He dug through his pockets to double check he didn’t have any stray tissues on him, but came up empty handed. 

Jenelle followed his advice, though probably not voluntarily. “Heh-ISHOO! Hah…atchoo! Damn, I really need to blow my nose.” She gave a wet snuffle and rubbed at her eyes. “I’m sorry David, this is so gross, I don’t know what’s come over me…” Her breath hitched again, but she seemed to wrest back control of it, pressing a knuckle under her nose.  

David vehemently disagreed with her assessment. Her eyes were bright with teariness, the tip of her nose a delicate pink. He thought she looked lovely – something about her vulnerability tugged at his heartstrings and made him want to gather her into his arms. “Hey, don’t be silly, the dust out here can be a shocker. Come on, let’s go get you those tissues.” 

They walked back to the car in silence, apart from Jenelle’s frequent sniffles. Once she had extracted her pack of tissues, she turned away and blew her nose. She was blushing when she turned back.  

"I should get to taking some photos now."

"Sure - let me know if you need me to move the car. Or help in any way."

The pair spent the next hour or so taking pictures of the kangaroos and burnt-yellow Australian landscape. Jenelle showed David some of the major factors she considered in composition, lighting and subject matter, her expertise impressing him as she found the optimal angles and settings for images. She didn't shy away from a challenge either, occasionally lying in the dirt or half climbing a thorny tree to get the view she wanted. Once she was satisfied, she flashed a winning smile at David. 

"Sooo...do you think we could have one last go at feeding the kangaroos? And maybe while we're at it, I'll take some closer shots."

The kangaroos were excellent subjects, more than content to crunch their pellets while lying and standly placidly in place. Jenelle managed a good number of close up photos in record time. They were kneeling on the ground not far from a large buck when David noticed Jenelle was sniffling again. He offered her a napkin but she declined, still enraptured by the animals. 

"These guys are so chill, I can't believe it," Jenelle sniffed, rubbing her nose on her forearm. Her hands were occupied with her large, heavy camera. "Don't they have any fear of people at all?" 

"This group doesn't get hunted, there aren't any grain farms nearby they might pillage, it's mainly livestock around here. If you head out further they start to become a bit more wary. I wouldn't approach those guys."

"Well, I'm glad for it, it's certainly been a great experience. Though something out here is killing my nose..." She sniffled wetly to illustrate, scrunching up her nose and shaking her head. "Oh for Pete's sake, I'm going to sneeze again..."

David watched with bated breath as her expression once again fell slack, her breath hitching slightly before she turned her head to the side, away from him and the camera, and -

"ESHHHooo!" The bright Australian sunlight glittered off the small cloud of spray that erupted from her lips and fell invisibly to the ground. David blinked. Surely that ought to be gross, at least a little bit? But her sneeze was too damn cute to be disgusted, and as she reared back for another he found himself biting his lip in anticipation and longing to move closer rather than away. "Heh-ISSHHHOOO!" More spray that time, but still, not even a little put off. If anything, he wanted to kiss her nose and hold the napkins he still clutched to it while she sneezed and - damn, he had to snap out of it!

"Bless you," his voice cracked slightly. He cleared his throat and proffered the napkins again. "Here, sure you don't want these...?"

Sniffling, Jenelle carefully balanced the camera on her bent knee with one hand and took one with the other, grinning sheepishly at him. "Guess I'd better, huh?" 

“Hey, do you think it’s the kangaroos?” David asked suddenly as she blew her nose one-handed. “Every time we get close you start sniffling and sneezing – could you be allergic to them?” 

Jenelle’s forehead furrowed as she considered it, looking at him over the tissue she held over her nose. “I guess that could be it.” Her eyes slowly closed again, the inner corners of her eyebrows lifting. “It wuh-would…explaaihh…expla-hhheh-ISHHOOO!” She doubled over as much as she could from her position on one knee while protecting the camera, pressing the tissue to her face with her free hand. It didn’t do a lot to muffle the large explosion though. The nearby kangaroo scrambled to its large feet, gave her a baleful look, and ambled away on all fours to the shade of a quieter tree. 

“Bless you once more.” David started chuckling. “Who ever heard of someone allergic to kangaroos?” 

“HASSHH-oo!” was Jenelle’s response. She finally withdrew the tissue from her face, revealing a pink nose and slight flush to her cheeks – whether from embarrassment or allergies, David couldn’t tell. She valiantly tried to sniffle through the congestion rapidly flooding her nose, but it didn’t appear very effective. Her voice was slightly hoarse and nasal as she spoke. “This is my karma for feeding the damn things.” 
 

 

Disclaimer: Please note that I do not condone feeding kangaroos outside of sanctuaries. You can absolutely feed them and pat them and even interact with their babies, it’s delightful, just go to the appropriate places! It’s not good for wild kangaroos to associate people with food and, while they’re pretty peaceful, they can do some serious damage if they want

[EveP]

@Kiwifruit this is so good! My heart jumped with joy when I saw your update. Also, I'm glad your finally had your surgery and are off the painkillers. 💚

[Moose]

I love reading this, It’s so cute! I’m so excited for more!

[NocturneOwlBoy]

Love this third part, hopefully there are still plans to continue, because both the sneezes and the characters just feel so natural😃👌🏻

[Mems]

I’m somehow just seeing the second couple of chapters of this and 😍😍😍 SO good!!!! I would love to see her get sick and need some TLC 😭❤️