#& my top album of last year by a long shot …

[vengelark]

what r y’all’s favorite albums… like what albums do u come back to time & time again I would like to know…

[girlfriendsofthegalaxy]

tuesday again 10/22/2024

rare tuesdaypost with no fallow sections. i CANNOT find the exact image i am looking for (mouse-drawn person sitting on bar stool with ankles crossed and blushing with eyelashes) but i feel like i found a lot of things this week that charmed me immensely. rare many such cases of many interests intersecting.

listening

almost exactly a year ago i wrote about jolynn j chin's SHIFTED, a piano jazz piece where the time signatures change on every bar, which came with an explainer video that is, spiritually, a physics video.

she's done it again with OFF TIME and a full album of equally bonkers concepts. i have a brain that is fairly good at manipulating 2D things (yarn, fabric) into 3D things but i do Not have this kind of math brain. wild shit.

-

reading

thank you philip for overseeing the photography of this trio of DELILAH DIRK graphic novels from Tony Cliff. i saw these on the library shelf and went "holy shit i read one of these as a webcomic in high school".

very well-paced indiana jones and james bond adjacent pulp adventures, with a soupcon of steampunk conveyances for taste. delilah started life in 2007 when strong snappy female characters were far less common. this is particularly...not quite grating, but very notable in the first two books (published in 2013 and 2016 respectively). they are intended to be middle-grade (disney villain falling deaths, no tits or ass, etc), but they punch far above their intended age range. a particularly interesting reckoning with the long-suffering native guide trope. not a series overly concerned with historical accuracy, although it's certainly more grounded in real history than you might expect of a middle-grade pulp adventure graphic novel. more colonial political concerns than i remembered or expected.

the art is really killer in all three books. tony cliff really knows the effect of a good page turn spread.

he also has a very charming way of illustrating continuing action across a huge panel. all four shots are from The Pillars of Hercules (2018) bc it happened to be the last one i read and the one with by far the most ambitious art.

-

watching

tubi has acquired the streaming rights to most of the batman animated movies. i keep getting served ads on instagram for an upcoming animated film about batman and the yakuza, where the premise is that a portal from real-life japan has opened up over gotham and the yakuza are pouring through like a demonic horde. this seems to be a sequel to batman ninja (2018, dir. Junpei Mizusaki)

Batman, along with his allies and adversaries, finds himself transported from modern Gotham City to feudal Japan.

batman ninja includes the lines:

I’m going to rule this country and turn it into a kingdom of monkeys and rewrite the history of the world!

and

What am I going to do with you, Batman? You’ve destroyed a perfectly good giant robot castle!

i would describe this as more of a feature-length animation showcase than anything else. the haters on letterboxed didn't even give it an average of 3 but that's bc they hate fun. this is some real weeb shit. this is not a grimdark or particularly thoughful batman entry. this is an entry to clap your hands in glee at the giant gundam vs monkey army fight. they have once again done my favorite comics boy jason todd dirty but what the fuck else is new.

so much fun even on just the like tree field guide level of identifying the six or seven animation styles. plus everyone's feudal japan looks are sick as shit.

was it Good? no. was i delighted at nearly every moment? fuck yeah.

-

playing

EXCEPTIONALLY charming embroidery-based game jam game, Cross Stitched by Panzerr here for free on itch.io. made in godot. god bless.

(image from the developer) you've got your little baba yaga house gundam in the center constantly firing projectiles, and you have to keep these fucking birds back. you can WASD around the edges of the tapestry, and your health is in the top (i really love how it gets "ruined" dark chunks taken out of it as you lose health, like a piece of embroidery decaying) and the bottom black bar of motifs fills up as you make progress towards adding another level and another piece to your powerup level tapestry.

(following images from me) you do have to think about your placement and plan it out a bit, and you can't embroider over something you've already stitched. would not recommend surrounding your initial base damage motif with other motifs bc then you've sort of fucked yourself over. a really simple concept (a good bite size for a game jam) elevated by a very fun visual style and great music. really delighted me! i am so jaded by my time in the video game marketing mines that i forgot they can be fun actually!

-

making

unphotographable: too many bugs in my house! tried to replace the weatherstripping on my front door and discovering that both the front door and the storm door were installed incorrectly and should probably be replaced.

in better news, the newest pathetic little waif in the office bathroom has been freshly neutered and will be going to a nice cushy indoor home next week-ish. whenever he is fully recovered. the most polite cat i have ever had in this carrier: did not piss, shit, or throw up.

KO'd by six cc's of various goops. poor man.

[thecapricunt1616]

Sunflower 🌻

Syd x Carmy one-shot

♡ Summary: A/U where after graduating from the CIA at the top of her class, Syd goes on a food tour in NYC & ends up hooking up with the most talented CDC, at the best restaurant in the world.

♡ W/C: 3,434

♡ Posted Date: 04/12/2024

♡ A/N: This is pure filth I tried adding some plot- I hope it turned out the way I saw it in my head. As always requests are open - for SydCarmy, CarmyxReader as usual! I hope you enjoy :)

♡ Warnings for BTC: Smutsmutsmut nsfw 18+ - Oral (m receiving) , Barely edited bc we die like men.

➵ 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭 ♡

Sydney Adamu had just graduated top of her class at the Culinary Institute of America. She’d been hunkering down with her dad, for a long four years, she was desperate to get out of there. She already had a plan all set up. 

She’d take the last bit of money her grandfather had given her for college, and make a catering business of her very own. It would be dedicated to her parents, (of course) Syd’s hopeless romanticism was thanks to their perfect, beautiful love story of course. She’d known since sophomore year of culinary school - Sheridan Road would be her baby. 

She’d settled on this idea - with any possible odd’s and ends money she’d made during her CIA training - she’d go out for as long as it would last her. She’d learn, study, and observe, then- create her catering business, with the confidence she’d gotten a taste of the very goal she had, a star. Well - three would be absolutely fucking insanity to her- but one? One she felt like if she had it? Her father would believe she was in a real line of work, instead of just happy she was perusing her own happiness. 

It was the perfect plan in her mind. She’d already set aside the amount of money, with extra safety net, for all of the licensures, and documentation she’d need- as well as her commercial kitchen rental she’d make the food out of. Then - with the extra 5k she had left over, she booked a full food tour of the most prestigious, luxurious restaurants in NYC. 

She’d planned the tour 6 months before she graduated, since the 3 restaurants wouldn’t even accept a reservation if it wasn’t made out any later then that, and when she walked the stage, 3 days later she was on the train into the city. 

She’d be staying at a decent hotel for 12 days. Each day, she’d be having one large meal including an app, two main courses, 2 cocktails, and 1 dessert from a Michelin starred restaurant. She would be staying 4 days for 1 star, 4 for 2 stars, and 4 for 3 stars. 

The schedule was as followed; 

Monday - Hirohisa *

Tuesday - Dirt Candy *

Wednesday - The Musket Room *

Thursday - The Red Paper Clip *

Friday - Atera **

Saturday - Jungsik **

Monday - Saga **

Tuesday - Daniel **

Wednesday - Per Se ***

Thursday - Le Bernadin ***

Friday - Masa ***

Saturday - 11 Madison Park ***

When she’d got off at Penn station- she was nearly vibrating with excitement - she quickly brushed passed people grabbing their obnoxious suitcases in the overhead compartments. 

“Sorry! ‘Scuse me! Fuck- shit sorry- exscuse me!!!- whoops! Sorry- scuse me- aah! Ugh- I Didn’t mean to- oop- oh- Jesus!! Excuse me!!” She rambled, frustration building in her chest. Getting off The L wasn’t this hard- why did Amtrak feel worse?!

She took a deep breath, her nose scrunching. 

Mm. So instead of cow shit - smog, I feel at home already. 

She’d thought to herself as she briskly walks with the crowd towards the exit she meant to take onto fifth. 

She slipped her wired headphones into her ears, texting her father 

‘made it!! Love you daddy!!’

Before opening her Spotify, hitting one of her comfort albums, Broken Clocks, as she walked briskly outside - the crisp city air hitting her like a ton of bricks. 

She leaned against the brick of the McDonald’s next door, avoiding the streams of people going down and up the sidewalk, taking a deep breath. She’d not been to New York before, she’d grown up in Chicago- been to the city more times then she can count, but the suburbs were her home. Being in the city- and let alone- a city like Manhattan versus Chicago- she was looking around, trying to gather her wits - and quickly.  She clicked the maps application on her iPhone 7, tugging her umbrella out of the water bottle pocket of her backpack and tucking it under her arm as she typed the address to her hotel and clicking for the walking directions.

It honestly kind of pissed her off that each day’s food was better than the last. She’d wanted to not give a shit about stars and just focus on giving people an experience to remember - but it was cut & dry that now that she’d tasted this kind of food - she was going to do whatever she could to become as talented as the chefs that made it. 

But - she hadn’t even tried the best yet. 

The best, the best, THE best. 

She honestly couldn’t believe she was going to be trying the food from Eleven Madison Park - but she couldn’t help but be so nervous. Every other Michelin starred restaurant she’d been to - the dress code was Formal attire. But this one? THE best restaurant in the fucking world? Oh- they just say on their website ‘many of our guests dress up for the occasion, but we do not have a dress code’  

Her entire trip, She’d been cycling through 2 very different floor length gowns. One of which she wore to her graduation, and the other she’d found at Windsor on sale but it did the job. She didn’t wear luxury attire often, okay? She was too busy being Culinary school for Christ sakes! And tonight she couldn’t for the life of her choose which one she’d wear. 

This being because she was attending a main dining room tasting, which was ten courses. Easy, luxury dining courses were stupidly small. But- she was also trying their bar tasting menu which was an extra four courses. Sitting at a bar in that stupid fluffy dress for two hours would not be comfortable. But- again- best. restaurant. in. the. WORLD!!! 

She knew for a fact that she would be mad at herself if she got there and everyone around was dressed to the nines, but - for comfortability sake she went with the simple silken red gown. 

The front of house service was literally perfect. She was glad she’d brought a new notebook, because she’d never have had enough space to take all the notes she was taking tonight in the one she’d been using the majority of the trip. Their staff was very casually mannered, and they made it very easy to order. Everything was very calm and comfortable, the furniture felt very luxurious in the sense of comfortability. 

After she just had the best meal of her entire life, she knew she had to speak with the person who made it. Her mind was blown for lack of a better word. The food was fucking incredible. She had a rule to keep herself able to taste as much as possible: she was only allowed one bite of each dish, but here- she couldn’t just limit herself to one. Each dish she was taking 2 even 3 bites- but when she got to the sunflower dish? It was brilliant. She finished every bite, she couldn’t not. It would be sinful to waste it. And the only thing on her mind was that she had to talk to the chef who’d made it.

Her waiter comes back to her table, giving her back her card and receipt. 

“Thank you for dining with us this evening, have a wonderful night” he told her 

“Thank you- Um- may I speak with the chef who made the sunflower plate please? I’d like to pay my compliments in person if possible.” She asked hopefully. 

“Of course, that would be Chef Carmen- give me just a moment I’ll go get him for you” he nodded and headed back to the kitchen. She looked over her notes, remembering the questions she’d wanted to ask about the dish. 

Carmen, she wondered if he’d been named after the saint. His talent was surely straight from the hands of the Mother of Christ. 

Shes interrupted from writing in her notebook by a husky, silvery voice 

“Excuse me- I was told you’d like to speak to me, I’m Chef Carmen, I made your sunflower dish this evening.” 

“Hey- I’m Sydney - that dish was- ” she stood up to face him- and when she realized who was in front of her, her heart began to race. Of course, she’d thought, of course - only a JBA contestant could come up with a dish so ingenious.

 “Oh- um…Hi.. Hello- you’re like -” she blinked a few times, in utter shock. “You’re Carmen Berzatto“ She swallowed thickly. 

Sydney was obsessed with this industry- she stalked the JBA website every year to see who would be nominated, dreaming that some day she’d be on that list. Being even nominated would allow her to die happily feeling as if she’d won a fucking Nobel Prize. That was how much she respected those damn awards. 

“I am” he said and cleared his throat nervously. 

“Well- firstly congratulations on your nomination- you like- if it was up to me you’d win because that sunflower dish was-” they’re interrupted by one of the food runners coming over 

“Chef Carmen- Chef Daemon requests you in back of house now.” she said urgently, the girl looked like she was on the brink of tears as she continued taking the tray of food over to the table it was meant for. 

“So sorry, i’d love to hear what you have to say but uh…” he trailed off. 

“Yeah- yeah- sorry, sorry I wont keep you-” she said and he shook his head a bit 

“No- no- um… I mean -” he wouldnt usually be so bold, but his ass was going to literally be kicked if he didnt get back there in the next 5 seconds. “I’m gonna go out for a smoke at 11:15. If you wanted to keep talkin’ ill be there” he said before heading back to the kitchen.

Sydney was nearly shaking - there were so so many things she wanted to ask him. She also realized he was much - infinitely hotter in person - how that was even possible? She remained unsure. She had reapplied her lipgloss and her perfume, nervously pacing back and forth along the sidewalk. 

She hears the back door open and she looked over, out emerging the greek god incarnate she somehow got so lucky as to run in to tonight. “Hey!” she said with her famous warm smile. 

He didnt return it, actually- he looked pissed. She swallowed thickly, rubbing her lips together nervously “Hey - sorry again I uh- fuckin’ boss” he muttered, fishing his cigarettes out of his pocket. 

“No- don’t apologize please, I totally get it. I mean, you're the CDC at literally the best restaurant in the world. I wouldn’t have bugged you if I knew, I mean- my table, like- I’m not a critic..I guess I should have clarified cause of the notebook thing but they usually are more…low key? I thought? Do they usually just come and whip out a notebook? That would make it easier I think… But nonetheless I’m so so grateful to have been able to eat a meal that-“ she rambled on anxiously but he stops her.

“You talk when y’nervous” he said with a small smirk, lighting the cigarette between his lips and inhaling, leaning against the brick.

“Uh-” she stuttered, her face feeling hot suddenly. “Sorry- I’ve uh… i’ve been told” she chuckled a bit, taking a few steps towards him and leaning on the brick only 2 feet or so between them.

“It’s charming, y’smoke?” he offered her the pack with a red top, she looked down at it.

“I don’t- not- not yet anyways” she joked, crossing a slim arm over her waist. He couldn't help but realize how the action made her breasts more prominent. 

“You’re a chef?” he asked, taking a drag of his cigarette.

“Yes! Yes- well.. Just graduated, not working anywhere yet- I’m going home soon to try and start my own catering thing…” she explained and he nodded.

“Where’d y’graduate from?” he asked, exhaling the smoke away from her direction.

“CIA - 2 weeks ago, Valedictorian actually, y’not the only chef around here with street cred” she joked and he chuckled.

“Really? Word. Thats sick, good job. Y’said y’re headed home? Where’s that?” he asked, taking another drag of his cigarette.

“Chicago! Can’t wait to get back, Hudson life is… not for me- I forgot how convenient public transportation was” she said. 

He raised his brows in surprise, “Chicago huh? Thats my old home base.” he said 

“I know! You’re actually… really famous did you know that? Like- they talk all about you during lectures, you’re the new golden child of the culinary world” she teased and he rolled his eyes playfully.

They’d been inching closer and closer without realizing throughout the whole conversation, she was now so close that she could see the barely there scar on his cheek, her focus locked on it. His gaze was locked on her plump lips and he was imagining how they’d feel around his cock.

“I do unfortunately - you’ll learn soon enough that praise means being a target in this industry.” He said 

She bit her lip, meeting his striking blue eyes once again. “I really meant to tell you earlier was that sunflower dish was the best meal i’ve ever had. And i’m not just…sucking your dick because you’re you - I knew that before I knew you made it” she laughed a bit.

He followed suit, “Well if you want to- i’m not gonna say no.” he said and her eyes widened a bit, feeling her core pooling with heat at the idea. Of course he was half joking. It was so sudden and out there he would have never expected her to indulge him. 

“I mean- here? What if your boss comes out?” she asked, a bit quieter as if she was trying to assure they’d not be caught.

He nodded towards the row of 12-wheeler trucks parked 50 or so feet away. “Haven’t moved in 6 weeks” he shrugged casually  “Lead the way Chef”  she motioned with her hand, a frisky smirk on her lips.

“Holy fuuuck” Carmy groaned, pushing his cock deeper into her tight hot mouth. “Y’like takin cock like this mmm? Y’like bein’ my little fuckin slut?” he muttered, thumbing away the warm tear that was gathering in the corner of her right eye. “So fuckin’ good f’me-” he growled, moaning at the wet gurgling noises emitting from her.

She swallowed around him, looking up at him with tear-filled dark lustful brown eyes, widening her jaw further and tonguing over the pulsing vein on the underside of his length, gently squeezing his thighs to urge him further. 

“Y’want me t’fuck y’throat? Mmm? Dirty fuckin girl” he gathered her braids into his fist, wrapping them around his palm and roughly tugging her off. 

She whined hotly, the sensation of his rough hand sending waves of pleasure through her being. “Please” she said wantingly, tonguing over his slit before wrapping her lips around the tip of his head in a sensual kiss.

He took his thumb, pulling her jaw open wide and thrusting into her mouth with a satisfied grunt. “Y’know-shhhit y’know what? I think this is the only way t’shut y’ass up? Mmm?” he inhales sharply as she pushed his foreskin back and spit on his exposed sensitive tip.

“Jesus fuckin-” he sharply inhaled through his teeth as she gently grazed her teeth over the sensitive head, his abs clenching in pleasure and hips quivering from the overstimulation “fuckin-h-aaaa-ahhh-mm-shhhhit-jesus fuckin christ” he whimpered, his head falling back against the metal with a sharp bang as she took the flesh into her mouth, flicking her tongue sharply over the weeping tip before smoothly sucking over the buzzing stimulation. He knew if she kept up the act he’d be filling her mouth with his seed within seconds.

“S-sooo fuckin filthy - y’want my cum in y’throat? Mmm? Little fuckin whore- h-holy-oh god- i-” he nearly suffocated her as he buried his cock further down her throat. He reached down, his fingers rubbing along his thick length buried in her warm tight throat. 

“F-fuuuuuck- ah- oh shhh- mmm- thats it- thaaaaaat’s it- good fuckin girl” he grumbled, roughly and sloppily guiding her head in such a way that the noises being made if it weren’t her he would think theyre overdramatic and disgusting. He also didn’t know where the hell all of this talking was coming from. 

Normally in the bedroom, he was quiet. Very quiet. The only way the women he was with knew he’d enjoyed himself was if he even came at all. Sex usually wasn’t about his own pleasure since in the presence of another he found it so hard to get off - it was more about giving him imagery that would help him later in regards to finishing. 

“You are so fuckin good at that huh? You take my cock so well such a good fuckin girl” his jaw goes slack as she put her hands on his hips to steady him and slowly sinks her mouth all the way down to the hilt, her eyes shut in focus. 

She gently rubbed her thumbs over his hips, swallowing around his length in a way that made whimpers fall past his lips he didn’t know he could make himself. “Holy shit y’fuckin- oh- ohhh fuck” he grunts as she takes one of her hands and begins massaging his balls and looking directly into his eyes, pulling off his length to breathe and gently pushing the foreskin back, kissing over the sensitive flesh with her plump lips. 

“You can fuck my face- but deepthroating after a meal like that is pretty hard, id love if I can keep it down” she said, even with spit running down her chin, teary eyes, and swollen lips - she still looked adorable to him. 

“Sorry- sorry” he muttered, loosening his grip on her hair “keep doin’ that fuck yesss” he breathed out as she swirled her tongue around his head. He thrust in and out of her mouth, gradually moving faster but being careful as to not slam into the back of her throat. 

She stroked the bottom half of his length with her other hand, eyes closing and doing her best to swallow around him all the excess saliva that was dripping down her throat. She hollowed out her cheeks, looking up at him as she slowly and carefully sunk down once again, keeping her eyes locked on his. 

“Mmm-shhhit-I’m fuckin-“ he groaned, his knees nearly going weak and head falling back with a thud. Blood roared in his ears, his hands shook slightly from the tension rolling off him in waves. 

She nearly choked at the amount rolling down her throat. She pulled off slightly, swallowing - more like gulping, assuring to hollow her cheeks and swirl her tongue as she pulled off with a pop as to not waste any of the sweet salty mess. 

“You- you- you are fuckin crazy” he breathed, looking down at her. 

She wiped off her mouth, chin, and neck with a tissue she’d kept in her purse before saying “I’d say you’re crazy, “ she got off her knees, picking up the chefs coat he had thrown down for her to kneel on, to which she insided it out before she did so it wouldn’t show any dirt. “If I had that coat? It would never touch the floor” she shook it off carefully. 

He quickly fixed his pants “he’s a friend it doesn’t matter I can always get a new one” he countered, putting the coat back on and buttoning it. 

Her eyes widened “friends?! How the hell did you run into him?!” She asked. 

“You- y’re into fashion ‘n shit?” He asked and she nodded enthusiastically 

“Are you fucking kidding me?! Thom Browne is insane all his shit Is absolute fire. I wish I could afford one of his jackets like- it’s totally a dream wishlist kinda thing” she took some gum out of her purse. 

“When do you uh…go back?” He asked. 

“Tomorrow. Headed to Chicago on Wednesday” she said and he nods. 

“Oh- yeah okay..It was uh…it was nice t’meet you” he said awkwardly “I should probably um..” he trailed off, clearing his throat nervously.

“Totally- yeah great to um…great to meet you too chef.” She nodded 

“Could I um…” he rubs the back of his neck anxiously “could I maybe get y’r…” he trails off, cheeks pink with embarrassment. 

“My number?” She asked, grabbing her phone out of her purse. 

He nodded, cheeks bright red with embarrassment “yeah sorry-“ he mumbled

“Yeah- if I can get yours” she teased, clicking open the blank contact screen

[romanstheory]

Superstar A Roman Reigns One Shot

Warnings: Smut, Language, Oral sex (m&f recieving), OC

Word Count: 1,850

OC: __maleeyah on IG

18 +

"I can't believe afrobeat has come this far" I say grinning from ear to ear "A few years ago nobody really knew what it was". My brothers and long time friend Burna Boy sit on the sofa while I put the finishing touches on my makeup. "I mean we're about to take over the stage at the BET Awards" I continue. This year has been so busy for me, tours, award shows, and now a WWE contract under my belt, how could this year get any better? I've released an album with my childhood best friend Damini a.k.a Burna boy, life is great. Just a few years ago I was a girl in Nigeria, broke with a dream. "Sade, the world is yours Ifemi (my love)" Burna Boy says grinning at me. He's always been like another one of my brothers, encouraging and annoying all at the same time. We hear a knock at the door, my eldest brother gets up to open it, we're not expecting anyone.

He opens the door, revealing Triple H. "Hi! Hunter!" I say enthusiastically. Behind him trails a few WWE superstars that I've invited to the show to see me perform. "Come in!" I say standing up. "Thank you so much for the invite, we're all excited to see the performance" He says as he and the superstars walk in. Last behind him is Roman Reigns, with that brooding look he always had on his face. I've been under contract for a few months now and never come across him in the flesh. Hunter introduces the boys and I to all of the superstars. "You look nice" Roman says smoothly, his face still brooding but slightly softened. "Thank you" I feel warmth run across my brown cheeks and that flutter in my stomach, you know the kind you feel right before you get on a ride at an amusement park.

"It's almost time for us to go on, we'd better get going" Burna boy says standing and gesturing for me to leave the room. "It was nice meeting you all, enjoy the show!" I say with a smile, but locking eyes on Roman. Our attire is casual, I sport loose cargo pants and a fitted crop top, white forces on my feet. Burna Boy wears jeans and a loose T Shirt that at some point would come off because it always did. I inhale heavily as he runs out to start the performance. Soon it's my turn and I run out to a roaring crowd, Roman and the other superstars front and center. It feels like my heart is going to explode or beat right out of my chest. The venue is full of roaring screams and the beat of our platinum record. I whine my hips and move to the beat of the song, Roman's eyes locked on my, still stoic in expression.

We finish our three song performance and run off stage. I'm shaking with adrenaline as I jump into Burna Boy's arm. "Oh my god Damini we really just did that shit! Iyanu! (amazing)" I scream. "We did! Did you hear the crowd?" He replies with a grin. Soon we are met again by Hunter and the superstars, all congratulating us and complimenting our performance. I lock eyes with the very tall Roman Reigns, secretly waiting on him to say something to me. His eyes study me the way you would the night before an exam... Up and down slowly while he hold his universal championship across his broad shoulder. I can't help but stare back, taking in all of his 6'3 frame. Burna Boy looks at both of us and chuckles before escorting Hunter and the others away to distract them, leaving Roman and I alone.

"You did great out there" He says interrupting the silence. "Thank you, that means a lot" I say, my eyes stopping at the obvious bulge in his pants. Quickly I bring my eyes back to his, hoping her didn't notice. His crooked smile proves he did indeed see me. "You look" He pauses, studying my body once again "good as hell". I feel my brown cheeks grow warm again. "You don't look half bad either" I reply. "I would rather see you without the outfit on though, if I'm being honest" He says boldly with a smirk. i'm both taken aback and turned on by his boldness, but this is Roman Reigns after all... What was i expecting? "Take me to your room and convince me to let you see" I reply back boldly.He shooks me a smirk and a quiet chuckle before taking my hand and leading the way. --

He opens the door to his room, it smells like he just sprayed cologne. He sits his title on the bedside table, and we sit on the bed. The sexual tension between the two of is quickly fills the room. He softly grabs my face and pulls me into a passionate kiss. I'm already craving him. His soft lips press against mine, I put my hand on the now even bigger bulge I had seen earlier. "Make me want to show you what's under here" I whisper. I feel that smirk creep across his lips again. He unbuckles my pants, sliding his warm hand under my panties and begins rubbing my already throbbing clit. A soft moan escapes my lips, almost in relief that he's touching me. He slides his tongue into my mouth, still circling my clit with his big fingers. Our lips smack together with passion, tongues dancing around each other slowly.

"Convinced?" Roman's deep voice vibrates through my eardrums. "I am" I say biting my lip. He softly pulls at my clothing, encouraging me to slip out of it while he does the same. His big brown eye dig into me like daggers. He slowly shifts his weight on top of me causing me to end up laying on my back. His eyes studying my body like they had earlier on in the night. He presses his warm lips onto mine again, this time I gently bite his bottom lip when we pull away. I can feel the blood rushing through my body while it anticipates what's coming next.

He trails slow soft kisses from my lips, to my neck, to my now sensitive breasts, ending at my throbbing vagina. "You're already wet" Roman says "We're just getting started baby girl". His words shoot through my body while he begins to softly massage my clit with his tongue. Up, down, and in circles he licks slowly but with preciseness. I squirm around unable to handle the sensation. "Don't run from me" He growls softly "Let daddy eat". I let out a loud moan, putting my hand on top of his head taking in a fist full of his long black hair. His tongue swirls perfectly around and around. His eyes meet mine again, this time they're dark with lust. This man is about to take my soul from me, and I would willingly give it to him a million times over.

My mouth drops open as I feel my body fill with the warm sensation of climax. I screech loudly as I close my thick thighs tightly around his head, he continues licking. "Oh my god! Fuck I-" I cut myself off panting, searching for my next breath. He sits up, licking his lips slowly before leaning over me again. He takes his time with everything, making sure he pleases me as if he gets off on seeing me squirm. "Good girl" He whispers in my ear with a smirk. I feel the warmth of his long thick member at the entrance of my vagina. He knows full well that he's teasing me. He kisses my neck while he grabs his member, massaging the entrance of my soaked vagina with it. "It seems like you want me bad" He whispers in my ear again just before pressing his length into me slowly. His eyes continue to study my body, up and down his eyes scan.

He exhales sharply "Damn you feel good" He growls. His member now soaked in my juices. He guides his hip back and forward slowly, deeply, and with passion. His hands meet my sensitive breasts, rolling my nipples between his fingers. "Fuck" I scream. Roman closes his eyes, enjoying every second of what's happening. Quiet groans escape his lips "Shit" He whispers. My juices drip onto the bed as he continues to stroke me, deep, hard, passionate. "You like that don't you" Roman growls "You like this dick?". My mouth is open but no words come out. "It's mine now huh?" He continues "Tell me it's mine". Our eyes meet again "It's yours!" I squeal

My body gets that warm feeling again before I reach my climax for the second time. Roman quickly pulls out of me as if he knows he's close but isn't quite done yet. My body is shaking with pleasure, Roman let's me catch my breath, standing in front of me. I look at his huge member, still covered in my juices and then at him. I want him in my throat. I crawl over to him and without hesitation I lick his lip. He lets out a quiet groan. I put his tip in my mouth, teasing him just a bit. "Keep it up you'll have cum on that pretty face of yours" He groans, pulling my hair back from my face. "I might like that" I rebuttal.

I slowly take his length into my mouth, Roman releasing a lustful sigh of relief. I open my jaw wide making sure I can fit all of him in my throat. I begin sucking moving my tongue around his pulsating member, sending him into a frenzy. I look up at Roman, just like he did to me earlier. Our eyes meet "Fuck! You're sexy" He growls lustfully. I softly grab his balls massaging them while I continue sucking him off, never breaking eye contact. His eyes full of shock and pleasure... Like he'd never had that done before. "Oh my god you're gonna fuck around and make me fall in love" Roman says, throwing his head back and groaning.

I feel his length start to twitch. I take him out of my mouth and tap the tip on my tongue ready to receive his load. He lets out a loud moan looking me in my eyes again with those cloudy lust filled eyes. He releases his load onto my tongue and in my mouth. I swallow it all without hesitation. His breathing labored. "Fuck Sade" He says breathing heavily. I smirk and stand up "That dick is mine now huh?" I reply. Roman smirks back "If you want it to be" He replies. As much as I wanted to go again, my body wasn't going to allow it. But..... I have access to him whenever I want since we'll be on smackdown together..... And the dick is mine, after all.

[steveharringtonat3am]

Courtside

pairing: nba player!steve harrington x singer!reader

word count: 3.5k

warnings: oral (fem!recieving), penetrative sex

Excitement burns in your stomach as you put the finishing touches on your hair and makeup. You were going to be sitting courtside at the Lakers game, which meant you had to look good.

But you also wanted to look good for another reason.

Steve Harrington had just been traded from the Indiana Pacers to the Los Angeles Lakers. So even though it wasn’t your first time sitting courtside at an NBA game, you had never seen the famed rookie play live.

You had been watching him play since he got drafted by the Pacers in the first round. That had been years ago, and your crush had only grown. He was on this year's All-Star game roster, playing with the likes of Lebron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo. But you were on tour at the time, promoting your latest album, and hadn’t gone.

You scroll through Instagram on the drive to the stadium, liking posts and replying to DM’s. You smile to yourself when you see Steve Harrington’s latest post, in front of the Hollywood sign as he confirmed the trade. He didn’t post much, but when he did he always looked incredible. Squeezing your legs together to quell my desire for this man, you adjust your ridiculously low-cut top as the car parks by the side entrance. Luckily there are no paparazzi and you get in unbothered.

The players haven’t come out yet as you sit in your seat, crossing your legs and making sure to keep a neutral expression as you scroll on your phone. The last thing you wanted was for people to get pictures of you smiling at shirtless pictures of Steve Harrington.

When the Lakers start coming out, you keep a small smile on your face as you clap. But when they announce the number 30, you let yourself smile a little wider. As he runs out, we lock eyes for a brief second and you swear his smile grows.

As the players start to warm up, the commentators announce your presence. It was still a little surreal to see your face all over the jumbotron, but you smile and blow a kiss anyways. At one point, one of the Laker’s balls rolls by your feet and the next thing you know, Steve Harrington is standing in front of you.

He grins at you as he picks it up. His pretty brown eyes never leave yours as he slowly bends to pick the ball up with one very large hand.

“If I knew playing for the Lakers meant you would be sitting courtside, I would have asked for a trade a long time ago.” His voice has this flirty hint to it that makes your grin even wider.

“Well, I had to come to see what all the fuss was about. I hope you don’t disappoint.” You relax back into your seat as he chuckles.

“Trust me, I never disappoint.” He winks before jogging back to his side of the court.

Your heart is racing as you watch him go. If this was a cartoon, you would be fanning your face and hearts would replace my eyes.

Once the game starts, You see something in him switch. He starts doing moves you’ve hardly ever seen while watching basketball. At the end of the second quarter, he’s got 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. He’s panting as he collapses into his chair for halftime.

As the opening notes of the first song start to play, you perk up from your Instagram scrolling. You knew those notes. You knew that opening. It was your song.

The sexiest song you had ever written.

It was a spur-of-moment thing, inspired by a fling you had with an actor that ended on relatively well terms. But before we called it off, we shot a rather risque music video to go along with the song. People went crazy when you released it. While you were proud of it, you did not need it playing while sitting across the room from Steve Harrington.

And of course he’s looking at you.

It’s like the whole room goes quiet, and all you can focus on is his piercing gaze. Sweat drips from his hair, chest hair matted down and peaking out from his jersey. He leans back in his seat, thighs looking absolutely delicious in his shorts. The sultry vocals have you thinking absolutely sinful thoughts, and it feels like you’re going to explode.

So you look away.

As the song continues, you can feel Steve's gaze intensifying. You glance back over at him and see that he's biting his lip, his eyes dark with desire. You can't help but feel a rush of excitement at the sight. You know that he's a professional athlete, and that he's used to being in the spotlight, but this feels different. This feels intimate, like you're sharing a secret moment together.

The song ends, and you try to focus on the game, but you can't help but steal glances at Steve. He catches your eye a few times, and each time, you feel a jolt of electricity. You can't believe that you're sitting here, watching Steve Harrington play basketball, and that he's looking at you like this.

The game continues, and Steve continues to play like a man possessed. You watch him move across the court with a grace and power that takes your breath away. You can see the sweat glistening on his skin, and it's all you can do to keep from reaching out and touching him.

As the game draws to a close, the Lakers are up by twenty points. Steve has been the star of the game, racking up an impressive 45 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. You can't help but feel a sense of pride and admiration for him. He's not just a pretty face, he's a talented athlete with a fierce competitive drive.

As the final buzzer sounds, the stadium erupts into cheers. You stand up and clap along with the crowd, your heart racing with excitement. You can't believe that you just witnessed such an incredible game, and that you got to share it with Steve Harrington.

As the players make their way off the court, Steve catches your eye and gives you a wink. You feel a rush of heat spread through your body, and you can't help but smile in response. This turned out even better then you could have possibly imagined.

It feels like it takes forever for you to get home but you finally curl up in bed, pyjamas and skincare on. When you check your phone, your heart nearly drops to your stomach to see a dm from Steve Harrington.

‘Hope I didn’t disappoint ;)’

He was flirting with you.

Now you just have to flirt back.

‘You definitely didn’t. Better win us a ring next :)’ You bite your nail as you stare at the screen, waiting for a text back. Luckily, it comes quickly.

‘That’ll be soon. But I’ve gotta take my lucky charm to dinner first.’

That makes you practically scream into your pillow. He wants to take you dinner! Like a date!

‘Sounds like a good plan. I’ll see you then Harrington’ You really wanna play it cool, and totally not like you’re obsessed with him.

‘I’ll meet you at The Palm, at 7? I’m free tomorrow night’ This feels so surreal you can barely breathe.

‘See you there, Harrington’

You finally turn off your phone, setting it on your nightstand with a huge grin. You were going on a date.

Your closet is huge. It has to be, considering you’re “not allowed” to wear the same thing twice. But in all of it’s entirety, you can’t find a single thing to wear.

“Should I go sexy? Or is that too much?” You press the phone to your shoulder, holding up two dresses to the mirror.

“I think sexy, but not too sexy. Like that red dress you bought a few weeks ago.” Your friend recommends. That makes you drop the two dresses you’re holding, hurrying over to where you last put that.

“Oh! This is perfect! Now…I’m gonna get ready okay? Bye!” You hang up quickly, so excited you can hardly think. You have to be there in two hours so you get some music on, and hop into the shower so you can be ready for anything.

You get your driver to take you to the restaurant, asking him to stay in the area just in case you needed him. You take a deep breath before stepping inside, politely smiling at the hostess who’s jaw nearly hits the floor when she sees you.

“Hi, I’m meeting a friend? The reservation should be under ‘Harrington’?” You overthink the word friend for a second, but it’s a relatively safe choice in case this gets out to the press.

“R-right of course. Mr. Harrington is waiting for you.” She smiles widely, a little too excited but sweet as she shows you to the table where Steve is waiting.

Of course he looks incredible.

He’s wearing a simple red dress shirt, tucked into some black dress pants and rolled up. A gold chain peaks out from where it’s unbuttoned. God this man is going to be the death of me.

“Hey! You look beautiful.” He stands to gently hug you, pulling out your chair for you to sit down.

“Thank you! You look very handsome.” He grins, running a hand through his hair.

“I’m glad you think so. Figured my jersey wasn’t appropriate for a place that serves steak tartare.” He jokes.

“Oh it totally would have been. Wouldn’t draw attention at all.” You wink and you share a laugh. The waiter comes over with the menus, and if he knows who we are, he doesn’t let it show.

“So what are you thinking of ordering?” You ask after we’ve looked through them for a minute.

“Well I’ve heard the lobster risotto is good! How about you?”

“I was actually thinking the same thing. You’ve got good taste Harrington.” You grin and he mirrors it.

“I definitely do.”

Dinner goes by quickly, so quickly you wish for time to slow down just a little bit. Soon enough you’re both finishing up dessert and the waiter is bringing the cheque.

Steve grabs it before you can, shooting you a grin.

“You bought a courtside ticket to watch me play. Let me pay for dinner?” He slips his card in, handing it to the waiter. Once he walks away, there’s a small pause. So you take your chance.

“You know, it’s still early. Would you like to come over? I could give you a tour?” You offer with a small smile, sipping your water to hide your nerves. Luckily, he lights up at the prospect.

“Of your famous mansion? Sounds perfect.” He winks, standing up and reaching a hand out for you.

“I would hardly call it famous.” Even though we both knew it kinda was. You had recently been featured in Architectural Digest and people pretty much went crazy over the pictures.

“Whatever you say, sweetheart.” He leads you to his car, a bright red Porsche with the top down. It makes you laugh and he turns to you with a mock-offended look.

“What? It’s a beautiful car!” He opens the door for you, helping you inside.

“I know it’s just…very rookie of you.” He laughs, shaking his head.

“Can you blame me?” He smirks as you tell him the address.

The drive goes quick, and the conversation flows effortlessly. Steve was just so easy to talk to. As cocky and arrogant as he seemed on the basketball court, it was clearly just a personality for the cameras. That was common in LA, but it was rare to meet someone this genuine in a city full of people ready to stab you in the back for five minutes of fame.

“So this is the famous mansion!” You joke as he pulls into the driveway. It wasn’t a crazy size, but you definitely didn’t need a place this big all to yourself. Hopefully you could share it with someone one day.

And maybe that someone was standing right next to you.

“It’s even cooler in person.” He’s taking everything in as you two step inside.

“I’m glad you think so! Do you want anything to drink?” You lead him into the kitchen, pouring yourself some water.

“Just water is fine, thanks.” He takes the glass you offer, his large hands making the glass seem smaller than normal.

“So do you want that tour now?” You ask, placing your glass in the sink. He does the same, hip gently bumping yours.

“That sounds great.” He follows as you lead him to the other rooms, pointing out small details like the artwork and decor. Soon enough, you’re upstairs and the last room left is your bedroom. Luckily you had the sense to hide the chaos of your getting ready in the closet, which is closed. Your room is clean, and smells of the honeysuckle candle on your nightstand.

“This is where the magic happens!” You joke, stepping inside.

“Magic huh?” You turn to see him a lot closer then before, leaning down a bit.

“Mhm…” You feel myself getting lost in his eyes, leaning into him.

“Good to know.” And then his lips are against yours, hands gently gripping your hips. His hands gently slide up to your face, deepening the kiss even more. You start walking backwards towards your bed. He pulls away for a second to lock eyes with you.

“Do you want to? Cause we don’t have to. I really don’t mind.” He smiles softly and your heart soars.

“I want to. Really.” You step back to lay on the bed and he’s quick to climb on top of you, propping himself up on his forearms.

“You’re so beautiful…” He mumbles, kissing your jaw. You slide your hands into his hair, gripping it as he starts kissing lower and lower. He helps slip your dress off, revealing the matching set of red lingerie you had donned ‘just in case’ tonight.

“This is pretty.” He smirks and you can’t help but smile shyly.

“I picked it out for you.” He hums appreciatively, playing with the strap of the bra. Pressing kisses to your shoulder, he gently peels it off.

“Fuck.” He whispers when the material slips down your arms. You toss it to the side, watching his reaction with bated breath. But when his eyes lock with yours, there’s nothing but adoration in them.

“You’re incredible.” He smiles, continuing his path down your body. You can’t help but feel nervous. I mean, he was clearly experienced. What if he doesn’t think it’s good? What if he’s only using you for sex or publicity?

“Hey, are you okay?” You hadn’t even noticed him settle between your legs, but he sits up to look at you better.

“Yeah I’m fine. Just-just a little nervous I guess.” He smiles, understanding in his eyes, and reaches out to squeeze your hand.

“Don’t worry. I really like you. And I’ll like you the same if we have sex or if we don’t.” That actually calms you down, and you nod.

“Okay. I’m good now.” You confirm and he nods, starting to pull down your underwear. It makes you very aware of how wet you’ve gotten and you can tell from the grin on his face that Steve noticed too.

“Someone’s excited.” He teases.

“Can you blame me? I’ve got Steve ‘The Hair’ Harrington in my bed.” You wink and he chuckles.

“And now you’re gonna know what it feels like to have him go down on you.” He smirks before bending down and licking a long stripe up your folds. The feeling makes you squirm with pleasure and you tangle your hands in his hair. He gently sucks on your clit and your whole body jerks.

Of course he knows where it is.

Steve gently slides a finger inside, pumping it slowly. You moan quietly and it seems to motivate him to get you louder. He starts going faster, circling your clit with his tongue.

“Oh! R-right there!” You grip his hair tighter and he groans into you. You can feel the knot in your stomach building, pulling him even closer by his soft brown locks.

“Go ahead sweetheart.” He mumbles, slipping another finger inside. That’s what sends you over, moaning louder as you cum hard.

“Steve!” You cry out as he works you through it. When you finally relax, he sits up with a grin.

“That was so hot.” He kisses you deeply and you can taste yourself on his tongue. He pulls you impossibly close and you take your chance to flip him, straddling his waist. He breaks the kiss to smile up at you.

“What is this?” He smiles, hands resting on your hips. He looks so handsome laid out in your bed and it sends your heart through the roof.

“I wanna make you feel good now.” You start to unbutton his shirt and he sits up a bit to help you get it off.

“How about you ride me and we both feel good?” He offers as he undoes his belt. I realize with wide eyes that he’s very hard. And he looks very big.

“Y-yeah that sounds good.” You help him shimmy his pants down and your mouth practically waters at the sight of his cock. It looks the perfect size, so thick and pretty.

“You okay?” He asks, but I can see a hint of a smirk on his face.

“Very okay.” You stroke his cock gently and it makes him suck a breath in. You sit up to position his cock at your entrance, slowly sinking down. You both moan loudly, your nails digging into his biceps.

“Being so good.” He sits up to kiss you, pulling you down to lay on his chest. He plants his feet and starts fucking into you. Pleasure immediately overtakes you and you have to break the kiss to moan loudly.

“D-don’t stop!” You whine as he keeps going. He softly kisses the shell of your ear, mumbling praises as he slows down just a bit. His cock feels so deep, hitting every spot inside you.

You can feel yourself getting close again but you try desperately to hold off, to make this last just a little bit longer. You don’t want tonight to end.

“S-shit babe I’m close. Where-?” He can barely get the question out through sounds of pleasure.

“Inside!” You gasp, eyes nearly rolling to the back of your head. He doesn’t press the subject, and the second you cum, it sends him over. Warmth spreads through your lower body, limbs feeling like jello.

You both just lay there for a second, panting loudly. Eventually, you slip off of his chest and he sits up.

“Bathroom?” He asks, having caught his breath quicker than you. You point to the door on the other side of the room and he climbs out of bed. As you calm down, you start to feel a little sad. He was probably going to leave now. He’d go and you’d be alone and he might never talk to you again. Maybe sleeping together on the first date wasn’t such a good idea.

Before you can get too into your head, he comes back with a towel. You can’t even ask what he’s doing before he’s gently swiping in between your legs.

“Sorry.” He mumbles shyly when your hips jerk. He drops the towel to the ground and hesitates for a second.

“Do you want me to go?” He asks and you frown.

“N-not really. Unless you want to?” He shakes his head, climbing into the bed.

“I don’t want to. I never want this night to end.” He lays back and turns to face you. He looks so pretty like this, and so carefree.

“Me neither. You know…I’m free tomorrow morning. And I make mean blueberry pancakes.” You grin and he chuckles, arms wrapping around you and pulling you close.

“I’m holding you to that.”

[beautifulpersonpeach]

A Rant.

A lot of you have sent me asks about how JK's solo promotions isn't the same as Jimin's and other BTS members, about JK's rumoured all-English album, about BTS doing payola (you can read my views 4th paragraph from the bottom), about how HYBE has apparently destroyed the BTS OT7 agenda...

I don't want to answer y'all for two reasons:

Perhaps some of you are newer followers, but I can only repeat myself so many times. Don't you get bored of hearing me say the same thing over and over again? /gen

I don't share the apprehension, worry, or appetite for speculation and theorizing that I'm seeing from many people on Tumblr and Twitter.

It's very possible I'm the one in La La Land and you all have good reason to be concerned. But the way I see it, a lot of hysteria is being driven by two things: (1) a very myopic pov, as though the time between June 2022 and December 2025 is the most defining period of BTS's solo careers, as though this is the best and only time for any member to make a move, leave their mark, and thrive. And that BTS/BigHit is working on the same timeline.

(2) All these conversations are being driven by people who have brought that toxic hyper-competitive feature of k-pop, inwards, into the group, and now see the members as direct competition in the narrowest and most reductive sense possible.

And I just don't relate.

I don't feel sad for Hobi on how his solo roll-out was 'sabotaged' relative to Jimin's, I don't feel angry for Joon on how his roll-out compared to JK's, I don't feel confused at JK possibly having a full English album, if anything I'm even more excited by how he's pushing himself and I think it suits him given his pronunciation is one of the best in BTS. I know he'll be more involved than with Seven given how long he's been working on his album, I just hope he doesn't sacrifice depth in his artistic and lyrical expression for a shallow, wider reach.

In my very honest opinion.

When BTS talk about wanting to be together for a really really long time, I wonder if people have sat down to really think about what that looks like. Because maybe it's just me, but I don't think it makes sense for a company/group that has operated like BigHit/BTS, to shove their grandest plans for seven individuals into a ~3 year window. Right now, it's JK getting the push, he's been very vocal and consistent about his solo ambitions for the last 4 years, and I'm glad he's getting this shot.

Also,

While I feel BigHit has become bloated and inefficient, the boys are still capable handling their affairs and I feel very comfortable not having all the answers for a business and career that isn't mine.

I have my opinions about how things could be done differently, and I think if people want to voice their dissatisfaction to the company that's obviously fine, but I don't feel sadness, anger, or pity for any of the guys in BTS in Chapter 2. Not for my biases, not for Jungkook, and certainly not for Jimin. And it's getting tedious repeating my unpopular sanctimonious opinions to people who have already made up their minds and really ought to be more honest with themselves.

Speaking of Jimin, it continues to amuse me how the top group of people who just do nawt rate this man, is his solos. It's like dejavu for the discourse around OSTs circa 2018 - 2021 all over again. PJMs complaining about how BigHit was holding him back from doing OSTs, just for Jimin to say he wasn't interested at the time. Or how in 2022 people were fretting in my inbox about how only Jimin hadn't done any solo work/promotions yet and I would put out gentle reminders about how he operates and his tendency to leapfrog the rest when he's ready, then we started getting the producer pics.

Jimin has always been a 'bigger picture' kind of guy so how can anyone blame me for not taking this latest outcry seriously when that man continues to do what he's always done: work in silence, and wow with the result.

(Does anyone really think a man with no plans would be airborne every 2 weeks, and that a company with no desire to market him would be paying for and managing those plans?)

Not to be dismissive of people who wanted a stronger American push for Jimin's debut, while I agree he would've benefitted from a more targeted push, I genuinely think Jimin has always been better suited for Europe anyway.

I mean, look at him.

*

Anon from yesterday said they envisioned Jungkook doing a song/video like Troye Sivan's Rush... I didn't comment on it yesterday, but Anon, personally, I've never seen Jungkook as capable of making a song like that. Jungkook will never make anything like that. The only person in BTS who has the range for that sort of provocation and subtext, is Jimin. And the market that will fully embrace that sort of art isn't America, it's Europe. In my opinion.

We'll see what his plans are.

Anyway, I'm not sure how more tactfully I can say this, but my blog isn't the place to be if you feel some type of way about seeing Jungkook succeed like this relative to your bias, if you think his promotion and success is at the expense of your bias, and so on. It's not even that I care about some vague OT7 ideal, it's that while I understand the anger and heightened emotions a lot of you feel, I just cannot relate to it. And it won't be enjoyable for either of us if you come to me with asks about it because we think very differently about the group and our relation to BTS.

You can mark this post to revisit in 6 months so we can compare notes.

[angelsanarchy]

Alkaline: Euronymous x Y/N Series CH 15

Tagging: @ophelialaufey@madamemaximoff06@forever-not-gonna-sink@ajmiila02@liquidsmoothdomme@shady-the-simp @auggiethecreator @tempt-ress @blacksoul-27

Oystein had finally made it home for the holidays. He promised his mom he would stay the week but all he wanted to do was sleep. They had finally gotten the album out and actually making some money back after a year and a half of dedication. They had already started working on what comes next but going into the next year, Oystein wanted to take things to the extreme.

"Honey, please don't fall asleep yet. I have groceries coming and I don't think your dad will be back in time to help." He wasn't asleep yet but the TV wasn't helping.

"The TV is nauseating. There's nothing on it." He complained switching the channels.

"You look exhausted honey. You need a vacation away from here." Oystein rolled his eyes.

"This is my vacation Mom." He could see the concern on her face but she kissed his head gently as he continued to loaf across the couch. The doorbell rang just as he was starting to get comfortable and he let out a sigh.

"Can you get that please?" Oystein held his hand up at his mom who popped her head back out the kitchen as he walked to the door.

"Hey man-" Oystein opened the door expecting anyone but her but there she was, Y/n standing there looking completely different from the last time he saw her.

"Um...your mom has a pretty big order..." Y/n gestured over her shoulder and Oystein followed her down the steps quietly stunned. They hadn't spoken in two years and Oystein couldn't even remember the last time he saw her. He decided the night she told him to fuck off that he would throw his every thought into their album. He wasn't going to let her ruin what he was building. He had a brief stint with a photographer who took shots for the album cover but once that dwindled out, he decided no more fucking around until they had reached the pinnacle of what they were creating, what he was cultivating.

"I'm sorry if this is awkward, I honestly didn't know you had come home." Y/n said honestly.

"I'm visiting on holiday. I promised I would come home after we finished the album but never made it so this is me making up for it." Oystein explained grabbing bags from the back.

"I'm sure they loved that. Your dad hasn't stopped bragging about you whenever I bring groceries." Y/n smiled and it made Oystein's chest hurt.

"You changed your hair." He blurted making her laugh.

"I did. It was starting to get too long so-"

"It looks good." Oystein added. She reached out and touched the top of his making him freeze.

"Your roots could use a touch up. Your evil is bleeding out." Y/n joked. He wanted to laugh but the last time they spoke, she was shitting on his image. She had no idea who he was now.

"I've been a bit busy." Oystein tossed more of the groceries at the bottom of the steps and Y/n nodded realizing he apparently didn't appreciate the joke.

"That's what I hear. Congratulations on the album. Your sister actually gifted it to me for Christmas." Oystein didn't know why he felt self conscious that she actually owned a copy of their record but he tried not to let it show.

"I'm sure it's getting a lot of use in a drawer somewhere." He grabbed the last of the groceries and started to walk away.

"It's not...and it's really good. I don't understand most of it but it's good Oystein." He finally looked at her face and she held a sincere gaze as she complimented him, almost like she was proud of him.

"Well I guess we didn't need a list of backup singers after all considering Pelle is still alive and kicking." Oystein shot watching her face fall.

"Tell your mom I said happy holiday." She turned her back on him and started down the driveway to the car but he followed.

"You know you should consider growing up and finding a legitimate job. I mean I thought you would have moved on by now but here you are still slinging groceries." Y/n laughed out loud at Oystein's bitter jab at her employment again.

"What? You don't want to talk about how much of a poser I am? Or how I don't give a shit about my band? You've got nothing to say now?" He pressed continuing to follow her as she slammed her trunk shut.

"I'm not going to fight you Euronymous. It would be a waste of both our times. The only thing you're doing now is revealing how absolutely full of shit you are still. I can see you haven't changed one bit." She got into her car and he felt his blood boiling. He wanted to fight. He wanted to get under her skin. Anything just to keep her talking to him. Before he could say anything else, she was backing out of the driveway as his dad was pulling in. He gave her a wave before parking in front of Oystein who was clenching his fists, stalking back to the groceries at the bottom of the steps to drag inside.

"Blast from the past! I bet you and Y/n had a lot to catch up on." His dad clearly didn't realize they were no longer on speaking terms.

"Hardly. Honestly I thought she would have gotten a real job by now. It's pretty pathetic to still be delivering groceries at her age." Oystein's dad halted his son with a firm grip.

"Oystein...you didn't say that to her did you? That is incredibly inappropriate and hurtful. She works really hard to support her family, especially after what happened with her mother." Oystein had no idea what his dad was talking about but he was actually upset with him.

"What happened to her mom?" He asked curiously.

"She had a psychotic breakdown. Tried to kill herself in front of the kids. Her dad had to have her committed just to be able to care for her. Y/n has to work like she does to take care of her brothers. I think even one of her brothers has the same problems her mother has. It's incredibly sad." Oystein couldn't lie. He felt like a dick for saying what he said but there was nothing he could do about it.

They were just two different people who couldn't make it work. It was bittersweet but not surprising. He couldn't let her take him back to where he was then. He had to stay focused on keeping the image that he worked so hard for.

[sodalitefully]

Ok, Slash has already said in interviews that his blues album is going to feature guest singers, like his 2010 solo album did. So before we hear anything about the official lineup, let me get my predictions out for the guest artists:

Demi Lovato was confirmed a guest singer after Slash appeared on a single they released last year.

Duff McKagan and Slash have been appearing on each other's solo projects for years, including Duff's 2023 album Lighthouse, so I'd say he's a top contender — though not as a singer of course.

My personal long-shot dream pick is Marc LaBelle of Dirty Honey. Slash called on Marc to sing on a cover of Mississippi Queen he did for a tribute album in 2022, and I think he'd be perfectly suited to a blues track. Slash had some lesser-known guests on his 2010 album, so I think there's definitely a chance.

Guest appearances tend to be a scratch-my-back-I'll-scratch-yours situation, so anyone Slash has worked with in the past few years is fair game:

Tom Morello (2020) — though known for his RATM sound, I wouldn't put it past him to branch into other genres

Black Pumas (2021) — honestly I know nothing about them

Michael Monroe (2022) — Hanoi Rocks frontman whom Slash has collaborated with before

Ian Hunter (2023) — former Mott The Hoople singer

Chris Jansen (2023) — country artist, maybe a likely guest?

The Dandy Warhols (2024) — reportedly they reached out to Slash, so not likely guests imo, especially given the late timing

Though this isn't an SMKC album, it's entirely possible that Slash's current bandmates could be involved in some capacity. Singer Myles Kennedy has dabbled in blues rock before, and Slash clearly works well with the Conspirators — though I also wouldn't be surprised if he put together an entirely new studio band with a blues sound in mind, the way he assembled SMKC to be a hard rock band.

And of course, there's a chance that any of his Guns N Roses bandmates could be involved...

[day6source]

[@ STAR1] DAY6 “A turnaround, a pleasant burden… We will continue to make ‘music that never gets old’” [Star@Style]

Reporter Hwang Yeon

An 'unbelievable' welcome return. DAY6, who finished their military service, proved their potential as the representative K-pop band by taking the 'Best Band' and 'Best Rock Ballad' trophies at 'ASEA 2024' all while simultaneously making their comeback as a full group. DAY6, the protagonists of 'You Were Beautiful' and 'Time of Our Life' shot to the top and shined as of recent. All the songs on their new album 'Fourever' charted, and achieved the top spot on major music charts in Korea with the title track 'Welcome to the Show'. Their 1,064-day hiatus has now been overshadowed. DAY6 is continuing in 'work mode' as if to quench their thirst, and expectations are high for the brilliant second page they will write.

Q It was the first award ceremony as a whole group after being discharged from the military. How do you feel about winning two awards?

▲ It was a huge honor to be invited to the first ASEA 2024 awards ceremony, but we're so thankful that we won the Best Band award. Thank you to NewsN and @ Style for giving us such a great award. Above all, we want to say thank you and love you to My Day (official fandom name) for always showing great love and support. Young K also received the 'The Best Rock Ballad' trophy with his first full solo album released last year. We're so happy to receive this precious award not only as a group but also as a solo artist at the first ceremony as a whole group after being discharged from the military. Thank you very much once again.

Q How does it feel to be performing performances that are not alone like the lyrics of the new song "Welcome to the Show" after the full comeback?

▲ It's been a long time since we attended an award ceremony as a whole group, and it's been about 5 years since we performed in Japan, so we were even more excited. It was a huge feeling to be able to sing DAY6's representative songs in front of those who love and care about K-pop. These days, with our loyal members and fans, we couldn't be happier or more full of love. Like the lyrics of 'Welcome to the Show', we plan to continue to run as DAY6 as we give it all, so we hope you continue to stay with us.

Q. Since you released an album after 3 years of hiatus, I think this comeback was a time to quench your thirst. How do you feel about the whole group?

▲ The entire group has been waiting for this comeback just as much as the fans. You'll never know how happy and excited we were when we were working on this album. We worked hard with the mindset of repaying the fans who waited for us for a long time.

Q If you were to score the result of this album, how many points would you like to give?

▲ Since it's been a while since we released a full group album, we had a lot of musical greed and what what we wanted to fulfill. We tried our best to embody all of them. As always, we made it with all my heart with the attitude that any of the songs could become the title. We're so proud that you all love the songs on the album, including the title track 'Welcome to the Show'. There are so many things we're thankful for along with the release of the album. The score for this album result…we want to give i 100 points (laughs).

Q Since you were together with the members for the first time in a long time, were there any new aspects you learned or areas where you felt you had grown?

▲ We definitely felt relaxed and felt that we got to meet again in a healthier way. Especially so is our attitude towards music. While preparing for this album, we tried to make the bass, drum, keyboard, and guitar sound richer, and tried to give it more depth in terms of genre as well. Hopefully the listeners felt that the sound was more detailed and detailed than the previous ones.

Q The team's status changed drastically during the hiatus. During the military enlistment period, 'You Were Beautiful' and 'Time of Our Life' recorded unusual chart rankings, and I wonder how you felt when you encountered the love?

▲ When we first heard the news, we thought, "Is this real?" and "What's going on?" We were definitely surprised and amazed. We're so thankful that we can receive such great love. Please look forward to DAY6's new music that made with a pleasant sense of pressure due to undeserved love!

Q What do you think is the secret behind Day6’s songs being able to 'turn around'?

▲ From the beginning of our debut, we promised to make 'timeless music' together, but that was only possible because of our efforts. Rather than focusing on the results while working on the music, we focused our hearts on the music we making at that time. Thinking like that, the music we've made as DAY6 has really been able to touch the heart of listeners.

Q. When it comes to DAY6, I think of being a "Step Band" and a "Growth Textbook." Were you sure that the day would come when you see such bright lights?

▲ I think we're growing more beautifully than we could've ever vaguely dreamed of in the early days of debut. We had faith that good music would work someday. We also had pride and confidence in our music, so there were always expectations that people would recognize us someday and that more people would sympathize with our songs someday. Now that our expectations have become a reality, we're just grateful. We will continue to grow as DAY6.

Q It seems you're as close to your family as you are to each other now, what do you mean to each other?

▲ We like to describe it as the most precious 'everything' in our lives. It felt like we were 'a place to stay' for each other. It was thanks to the members we never felt lonely even when were traveling and keeping busy. We spend more time with each other than with our parents, so we feel like we are 'home' to each other.

Q This year marks the 10th anniversary of your debut. Can you give me some ideas on your future plans?

▲ The new album ‘Fourever’ is a bit of an album that serves as a bridge between DAY6 of the past and DAY6 of the future. We're grateful to be able to present a meaningful album 10 years after our debut, so thank you. Next year will already be the 10th anniversary of our debut. We're looking forward to seeing what DAY6 will look like when as we turn ten. We'll will work harder and busier to repay the love of our fans.

Q The military enlistment time is over, and you've have renewed your contracts. Act 2 of DAY6 is just beginning. What kind of music do you want to show in the future?

▲ There won't be any major changes, but we definitely plan on show how we're moving forward. Our music was able to be known and loved so much thanks to the fans who recommended DAY6 music to their acquaintances. We'll continue to make music that our fans are proud to recommend. Thank you. ♥

[hlficlibrary]

HL FIC LIBRARY ✤ AUTHOR REC

AO3: we_are_the_same

Tumblr: @so-why-let-your-voice-be-tamed

STATS:

✤ Number of fics: 81

✤ Posting Since: 2012

TOP 5 FICS:

1️⃣ you've set my soul to dreaming (T, 9k)

At first, when Harry wakes up on Christmas Morning with a warm body in his bed he wonders if he pulled someone last night. He’d met some friends at the pub, none of them really having anyone to spend Christmas Eve with, and he knows he might’ve had a few drinks to numb the loneliness for a while, but he didn’t think he got that drunk that he’d ended up pulling someone and forgetting all about it.

Or: Thirty year old Harry Styles goes to bed single on Christmas Eve, only to wake up on Christmas morning with a husband in his bed and a son down the hall.

2️⃣ room for your love underneath this tree (T, 11k)

“IwannameetHarryStyles,” Daisy mumbles, and Louis blinks.

“What?”

“She says she wants to meet Harry Styles.” Phoebe pipes up, and Louis blinks again, absently switches the camera to himself because he knows that his followers will want to catch his baffled expression.

“You-” he starts, and then stops himself, because he did tell her she could ask for anything she wanted, and how can he go back on his word and tell her that he doesn’t actually have the power to make that happen?

Because Harry Styles is -- he’s next level kind of famous. Louis has two million subscribers on his YouTube, but Harry has eighteen times as many followers on his Twitter alone. He’s had three number one hits in the last year, and his last album had charted at the top spot for a record breaking 27 weeks. He’s a singer, actor and philanthropist, and there is no way in hell that Louis can get him to come meet Daisy for Christmas.

So of course he laughs, even if it’s a little bit breathless, and nods at her. “One Harry Styles for Christmas, coming right up.”

3️⃣ some things fade (some never do) (T, 25k)

Matching tattoos. He’d never thought he’d be the type for tattoos to begin with, let alone matching or magical ones, but once Harry had put the idea in his mind it had never quite managed to disappear. And it had made sense. With their relationship a long distance one, this was simply another way of feeling close to one another. Of knowing where the other was, how they felt. It had made so much sense.

Back then.

Three years after their break up, Harry calls.

4️⃣ with no way out and a long way down (T, 31k)

Prince Harry is ten when he receives his soulmark.

5️⃣ In a sky full of stars, be my Northern lights (T, 13k)

It's one of those nights there's nothing on the telly that Louis absently scrolls through Tinder. After swiping left on a bunch of profiles he comes face to face with a picture that stops him in his tracks. The picture is..almost sweet. It’s a boy with brown curly hair, wearing a very low cut yellow blouse, paired with a black jacket. He’s got a smile on his face and his tongue sticking out, but it’s not in any way lewd or suggestive. He just looks like he’s having a good time, and something about the innocence of it has him swiping right rather than left.

He’s barely checked the other pictures on the boy's profile before Tinder confirms that he’s got a match. The shots are so different from the pictures Louis is used to on Tinder - half naked boys who are smoldering at the camera - that he can’t help but smile.

It quickly turns into a frown when he opens up the message he’s just received.

Harry: Hello! Harry: Thank you for swiping right Harry: I have a proposition for you

HIDDEN GEM:

💎 it's time to find your wings again (T, 12k)

The first reports are dismissed, as tall tales or folklore. As mental illness, poor Bathilda, she’d gone loopy. As people simply getting scared in the dark woods and seeing things, making things up. Magic isn’t real. Mythological creatures aren't real.

But then the first one is caught. A faun, that little Meg from around the corner swears has attacked her in the woods, and everyone comes to the marketplace to see the faun be hanged for its crimes. Louis doesn’t want to go, but at the same time, he finds himself unable to stay away. Not when this proves what he’s wanted to believe all along, that magic is real.

Louis is twenty when he starts working at the prison. His fascination for supernatural creatures had turned into something most closely resembling loathing over the years, due to the many stories of their evildoing, and although he still doesn’t believe in hanging them for their crimes, he does believe in keeping the town safe. In making sure that his siblings get to grow up without fear of being kidnapped or hurt. As the oldest son, it feels like his duty to make sure that no creature in the wide area will ever pose a threat to anyone.

[eclecticysm]

Rethinking Taylor Swift's "Lover" Bodysuit

Image from Vogue, shot by Jeff Kravitz

When Taylor Swift began her Era's tour last year in March, it quickly swept the nation. The movie was a hit, she was topping charts, and everyone and their mother was trying to get tickets. One costume in particular from this tour (okay, a lot of them) became a big hit: namely, the "Lover" era bodysuit. Made by Versace, beaded to the nines and sparkly as a disco ball, there's no denying this bodysuit is a beautiful showstopper. But is it the right choice in costume for Taylor and her "Lover" album? Now, take all this with a grain of salt. Taylor Swift is beautiful no matter what she wears, and the costume is undoubtedly gorgeous. However, I think with a little more intentionality and thought towards the album she's performing for, her look for Lover could be an absolute showstopper.

In my personal opinion, the "Lover" bodysuit simply isn't suited to the album it's for, nor does it work as well on Taylor as it should. It's a beautiful costume, but it isn't styled on her at all. Her hair is straight with bangs, and her makeup is a light shimmer look with a red lip- an iconic and gorgeous look for Taylor, but not one that can stand up to how bold the bodysuit is. This combined with the lack of accessory beyond a necklace, and the bodysuit unfortunately drowns Taylor out.

I'll get into why I think the bodysuit doesn't work for the album and the direction I think her team should have taken in a moment, but I first want to focus on how this bodysuit COULD have been made to work if their hearts were really set on it. The bodysuit is bold. It's festival wear, something you might wear for a show out in Vegas. A bold costume needs bold styling. A little hair and makeup goes a long way. Bringing back her windswept curls from her initial Fearless era, using a pinker shade of lipstick and a darker tone of eyeshadow would have done wonders for this look. (Getty Images)

I want to point out again that Taylor's accessories are very minimal for this costume. The boots are a good accessory on their own, and the necklace is nice, but there's a lack of balance: there's nothing on her arms or her ears. (Kevin Mazur via Getty Images)

With a little more accessorizing, this costume would be taken to the next level. Gloves are a fun way to do it, but for the soft romantic vibe of "Lover" and the playfulness of this costume, the way to go is some crystal jewelry. Think big. I've chosen some pieces from Swarovski to compliment the look. Some fun blue earrings, some bracelets to layer, and you can never go wrong with a big ring. (There's a million ways to go for this, of course- these are just examples.)

And there's way to go further with it. A big fur coat, to really play into the vintage romantic feel! Hair gems! Really fun nails! This is a costume that I feel has a lot of wasted potential: While I still don't think it suits "Lover", I think it really could've been an even bigger moment than, admittedly, it already was. I have a different vision for the "Lover" costume, though! Now, I'm no pop star stylist who works with Versace... but I do love to offer my own two cents. First things first, we need to consider the 'vibe.' "Lover" is a soft and romantic album with a little pop playfulness. Think "Cruel Summer" and "Paper Rings". It's fun music, but it's not quite the same vibe as "Lady Gaga in Vegas" as the costume might lead you to believe.

I also want to consider Taylor's general vibe over the years. Her fashion, her music, her marketing- it's very light and airy, and she has an almost vintage feel to her look.

I think there's a way to combine the bold, sexy and playful feel of the Versace bodysuit while fitting the vibe of the album and Taylor's personal look: Go for the old Hollywood look. Silken robes, soft wavy hair, and Taylor's signature red lip. Maybe even a feather boa, if we're really feeling fun!

These are some example pieces I think would make for a fantastic "Lover" look. (They're silk lingerie gowns and robes from Apilat Wedding, a custom wear lingerie and boudoir wear brand.)

I think the flirty and playful lingerie look could work really well for the "Lover" album, especially considering her ever so romantic performance of the song "Lover" with the dancing couples on stage. Pair it with square cut diamond earrings and some sparkly stiletto heels, and you've got a certified Moment on your hands.

I want to reiterate that I think the iconic bodysuit IS a cute look. I just think it could have been styled better, or perhaps used in a context it makes more sense for.

I want to cap this off by pointing out a costume from the Era's tour that I think Taylor's styling team did a fantastic job on: Her brand new "Midnights" bodysuit by Zuhair Murad. (Getty Images)

This is a costume that's well styled, well suited to Taylor, and fits the vibe of the album it's for. "Midnights" has more of a mysterious diva vibe to it than "Lover" does, and this costume embodies that. It's styled well- the fringe jacket is very "Taylor", the bold red lip fits the deep blue of the costume well, and while I still think it could use a little more jewelry without the jacket, the garter and the slight mussed up hair goes a long way in making this look like a cohesive look. Plus, I won't lie, I'm a sucker for a starry motif. <3

What do you think about Taylor's "Lover" era costume? Do you have any thoughts on how you'd style it? Do you think it works as is? If so, why? Reply, send in asks, get discussing! <3 Stay cute, Ky

[thedissociatives]

19, 28, 33, 35, 42 for the music ask (^_^)

omg sorry for leaving this so long i've been really busy 😭😭

19 - a song or album from the 00s

waterloo to anywhere has been The Album for me recently i looked at my last.fm report for last month this morning and it was my top album by a long shot lmao

28 - have you ever made/got a mixtape as a gift to/from a friend

i've never made a mixtape or been given one but ig that's because ppl don't really do that anymore 😭 i have had a few playlists made for me over the years though and i still remember them all years later (i've lost almost all of them over time tho which is a bit sad)

33 - your favourite artist from your city/state/country

the libertines have vvv quickly become my favs from over here but if i had to pick someone a bit closer to home.... muse. when i found out they were from down this way i actually couldn't believe it lmao 12 year old me didn't think anyone that cool could be from the west country lmao

35 - a song you like in a language you don't speak

got really into like. russian techno nd shit a few years back so this is v much a throwback to then but tri poloski. i had my mates in bristol onto it as well we were sat in the city centre blasting that shit i wonder what people thought walking past 💀

42 - your favourite(s) "no skips" albums

i'm really into listening to albums in full so all of the ones i like are "no skip" albums to me. so i'll just list some current favs that are 100% no skips imo: internationalist - powderfinger, all quiet on the eastern esplanade - the libertines, waterloo to anywhere - dirty pretty things, diorama - silverchair

[onigiri-dorkk]

Top 10 Films!

(Thanks for the tag SO long ago @a-slut-for-smut! I actually had this entire post written in my drafts right after you had tagged me but never got around to post it for some reason LOL)

I don’t watch many films anymore these days (shows/series have taken place of it) so it took awhile to recall all of my favorites. It’s actually nice to remember though, because it means all of these really lasted with me over my life.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012): A perfect coming-of-age film and story, discovered in my junior year of highschool. First of all I was in love with Logan Lerman looool and Emma Watson. But there are lines of this book/movie that stuck with me through my life, and the movie executed it perfectly. A story of finding belonging, first love, overcoming trauma alongside loved ones, growing up. The soundtrack is phenomenal, even the music score album (I listen to that often while writing).

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004): The cinematography and shots in this are just so gorgeous and creative. It’s a quirky and angsty film circling around two imperfect lovers who choose to love, who deal with the heartbreak in a terrible way, and who fall in love again, saying yes to the struggle. And, come on! The idea of having your memories erased, then during the process realizing you want to keep the painful memories after all? And navigating through memories trying to hold onto the good and the bad? Just a beautiful concept. Lots of fantastic lines and scenes. I took a lot of inspo from one scene in particular of this movie into some of the latest chapters of my longfic.

The Fault in Our Stars (2013): First of all, TFIOS is one of my all time favorite books. John Green is my favorite author, and is the only (published) author I’ve EVER gone out of my way to read multiple works from. TFIOS was the first book that brought me to *literal* tears. It rocked my world, this ill-fated story of star crossed lovers. The movie did a fantastic job adapting it; as soon as the production was announced I followed it loyally and the execution of the film made it so worth the journey. Hazel and Augustus’ actors’ chemistry was just SO good. The film STILL makes me bawl like a baby. Pls watch.

Anastasia (1997): A favorite since childhood! Romanov Princess gone missing, forced to pretend she’s the princess but she doesn’t know she’s the princess, until she finds out the conman she’s working with was the child who saved her long ago in her lost past? And they fall in love? So the conman lets go of all his con ways??? BEAUTIFUL. Love the music, love the animation, loved the idea of finding the missing princess and the love story of an unrecognized reunion of two childhood friends. I’ve always wanted to write a Rivamika/Anastasia AU 🥰 Someday.

Tangled (2010): I think as a teen I just really resonated with the “lost princess, aching for more in her life, feeling stuck in a tower, fall in love with conman” trope 🤣 But also, this was one of the first movies that made me just feel overwhelmed with heart-squeezing emotion. (I freaking loved Rapunzel; related to her in many ways) The lantern scene took my breath away and I had never really felt that in a movie theater before. Love the soundtrack and movie scores (did a music analysis presentation on the score back in highschool), animation was and still is beautiful even if it was one of Disney’s pioneering 3D animation movies.

Les Miserables (2012): I’m a sucker for musicals but this is one that I hold special in my heart. Aside from the fact that I played violin for Les Mis productions for two years, so I am attached to the music deeply... the story! The cinematography! The acting! The live singing! The instrumentals! Just a perfect cinematic experience. Eponine’s friend-zone story still breaks my heart, and I watched this movie at a time when I was going through her situation. I fell in love w the storytelling; how it took the journeys of multiple protagonists and perfectly interweaved each arc into each other’s so seamlessly. Also another movie that makes me bawl. Now that I stop to think of it, Fantine reminds me of Kuchel ;-;

Titanic (1997): I just rewatched this recently, after many many many years since childhood where I wasn't allowed to watch the kiss scenes (lol!) and holy wow it is a fantastic movie from start to end. It also helps now that I totally see Jack/young Leo as Levi. Beautiful timeless love story set in history. You know everything that happens and yet you still get so immersed into it.

August Rush (2007): I haven’t watched this in YEARS but 100% this deserves to be on my faves. August, an orphan who is looking for his parents, is discovered for his musical talents on an inspiring journey. Beautiful story about how someone’s passion for music/art (anything, really) can change their life; his parent’s story even becomes a reunion love story. This def had moments that took my breath away, too. (When August Rush gets up on that stage with the orchestra, ahhhh)

The Pianist (2002): (And honorable mention: Schindler’s List) Painfully beautiful movies. Terrible history of our world, depicted with care and pointing to the glimmers of hope in a heart wrenching way that deeply affects you. I think of both of these movies often. In The Pianist, Brody’s character is discovered to be a pianist by a German officer who helps him hide. Schindler’s List is about how a German man risks it all to save many Jews. The directing in both is phenomenal; the music—agh, that violin in Schindler’s List—too. I tear up thinking of this.

The Prince of Egypt (1998): Lastly, The Prince of Egypt. This movie rocked my world to see an ancient story, which I grew up with and was important to me and my faith when I was young, illustrated and animated with such beautiful art, music, etc. Moses leading a slave nation out of Egypt despite the odds. The burning bush scene and this one will always be iconic cinema scenes in my heart. Phew. Pls watch to those scenes with the music!!!

Thanks for tagging me @a-slut-for-smut! This was so fun to put together. I’ve been wanting to rewatch old classics to case-study the story writing and learn from my faves, so a movie marathon after the busy season will be a fun learning experience 😍

I tag: @chaosisbeauty23 @nuri148 @rivaille-13 @bryhaven @levi4mikasa @lady-purpleblue @warbarbie @your-lavender-dreams @nina-bean @onwriting-hrarby @randomposterofstuff @guliplum1 and anyone else in the community that wants to participate!!!

[ellecdc]

ik my last ask was a lil more serious (and suuuper long, although this one probably wont be much better, sorry 😬) but now i'm here for the goofs n catching up. sorry its been another bit of time again, i had to recover from the fact that YOU! missed little old me?!?! immidiate bedrest as i come to terms with that fact. i figured id answer the questions i asked you (and respond to ur responses) bc i can't help myself!

34) i get not being up to people watching anymore, i'm there too, although i used to be quite the people watcher. there are definitely an influx of people in cities where just having to be in their presence without observing them is tiring (i live by a famous one, boy do i know this fact. one time a guy came up to me on the transit and just started telling me jokes. i didn't even respond, but that didn't matter to him lol. honestly some of the jokes were pretty good.) it's like they do all the people watching work for you.

69) as someone who has unfortunately had to both wash my hair with soap and body with shampoo (don't ask, they were both emergency instances lol) i can confirm that the shampoo option is indeed better by a long shot.

83) oh no sorry for putting you into a tough spot! your song choices are so fun tho, like i just feel happier listening to them, makes me wanna dance (also completely forgot how much chumbawumba's album art fucks me up lol). i got this answer mostly down pat and its like the complete opposite vibe to ur choices lol. my all time favorite song is going to california by led zeppelin so that's my choice, i am forever a slut for it's layered guitar parts and finger picking (and zeppelin in general). a close second is lover, you should've come over by jeff buckley. "broken down and hungry for your love with no way to feed it"?! "my kingdom for a kiss upon her shoulder"?! "all my blood for the sweetness of her laughter"?! like stfu jeff this is too good for us mortals.

lastly, in my like 10 years of reading fanfic i have never once been inclined to write my own until now, and that's all thanks to you! idk if they will ever get done -one's a honker and it's maybe halfway written, the other is a smut fic which,,, idk man we'll see- much less posted, but you never know 🤷 maybe one day i'll be off anon and have a writing blog. but i want to say thanks for the inspiration to rediscover my love for writing!

hope ur having a wonderful day lovebug 🩷🩷🩷

-ʕ⁠·⁠ᴥ⁠·⁠ʔ

OMG SOMEONE ANSWERED THR WURSTIONS BACK IM SO EXCITED

People watching -> okay you’re so right though, people watching IS tiring. I don’t want to be perceived OR perceive!!

Body wash/shampoo -> Nooooo omg okay well I’m glad to know my answer was sound and should I ever find myself in a debacle I will choose wisely [thoughts and prayers to your hair]

Fave songs -> shut up did you actually look up the songs I listed?? That is so cool you’re so cool, what a cutie. Oof but your second song would be such good fic titles or prompts (hint hint you should do it)

And congratulations on your writing! I dont want to take credit at all though, I think you’re just a cool kid(tm) and are gonna do cool kid shit (i.e., writing fanfics) [no but fr, i think writing is so cathartic and good for the soul, it’s self care! I wrote for yeeeaaarrrrrssss before i ever thought to post anything, so even just writing for yourself is fucking tops, you rock it babes]

[purrincess-chat]

Fashion Faux Paw CH5

Only one chapter left! Tensions are rising in this chapter. Thanks as always to my beta @avrilmaria for putting up with me. The last chapter will be posted on Monday with my second artist’s work, so please be ready to show her some love! I hope you all enjoy~

Read on AO3

Chapter 5

“Girl, wake up!”

Marinette rolled over with a groan, blinking up at Alya kneeling next to her on the bed. Her best friend’s shoulders heaved with each pant, sweat glistening on her forehead.

“What’s going on?” Marinette checked her phone for akuma alerts, but other than a slew of missed calls and texts from Alya, her phone was quiet. “It’s 7 AM on a Saturday. Why are you here?”

“Your blog is on TV!”

Marinette pulled her blanket back over her head, the siren call of sleep weighing her eyelids after a long night of sewing.

“Can we talk about it later?” She yawned.

“M.” Alya yanked the blanket down again and quirked a brow at her.

The gears in Marinette’s brain turned slowly, each word grinding until they broke through the fog. Her blog was on TV? Her blog was on TV?! She shot up, following Alya down the stairs to the living room where she turned on the morning news.

“Almost as viral as a superhero herself, this young collége student’s fashion blog is feline the love. This isn’t the first time Marinette Dupain-Cheng has made headlines, having designed the cover of rockstar Jagged Stone’s most recent album as well as a derby hat featured in world-renowned fashion designer Gabriel Agreste’s fashion show earlier this year. It seems the young stylist is packing yet another celebrity endorsement under her belt, this time in the form of one of Paris’s own superheroes,” the news anchor said. “Dupain-Cheng began uploading photos of Chat Noir to her fashion blog last week, garnering thousands of likes and comments overnight, but the real catalyst driving her success are the recent outfits and accessories inspired by the cat king himself. Fans of the hero are going rabid asking where they can purchase the merch in question. Marinette Dupain-Cheng might only be fourteen, but she’s stitching her name at the top of everyone’s watch list. What else does this trail-blazing teen have in the works? We’ll just have to wait and see what she does next.”

“Girl!” Alya yanked Marinette’s arm with a squeal. “I knew this Chat Noir merch would be big for you!”

Marinette’s phone rang in her hands, a number she didn’t recognize flashing on the screen. Tilting her head to the side, she answered it apprehensively.

“Hello?”

“Is this Marinette Dupain-Cheng?” A woman asked.

“Uh, yeah? Who is this?” Marinette shrugged when Alya quirked a brow.

“My name is Alize Lemieux, the event coordinator for tomorrow’s fashion expo, and we would love for you to display your designs. It would be a great opportunity for you to network with real people in the business,” the woman said.

“For… For real?” Marinette blinked.

“Of course. We have a lot of promising upcoming designers featuring their work, and everyone is talking about you,” Mme. Lemieux said.

Marinette glanced at Alya who took the phone and said, “We’ll be there.”

“Excellent! I look forward to seeing your designs in person, Marinette.” She hung up, leaving Marinette standing stunned in the middle of her living room.

“Girl, this is huge! Real live people in the industry have their eye on you. This is your chance to show them what you’re made of!” Alya shook her shoulders.

Marinette’s lips curled into a smile, an elated squeal bubbling up from her chest. “Will you help me with my display?” She took Alya’s hands.

“Duh, I’m part of your team,” Alya said. “I’ve got your back. Let’s go see what you have.”

The moment she’d been dreaming of since getting her first sewing machine as a child was finally happening! People were taking her seriously as a designer, and she was going to show her work to real industry professionals. Soon she’d be flying all over the world opening boutiques for her brand. She’d fly back to Paris in her private jet, and Adrien would see how amazing and successful she was. He’d be so impressed that she’d finally get the opportunity to ask him to the movies! She owed Chat Noir a thousand croissants for his help.

“-is she okay?”

“I think her head’s stuck in the clouds. She’s been like this for hours.”

Marinette blinked out of her daydream to see Alya and Chat Noir giving her curious looks.

“Chat Noir, when did you get here?” She tilted her head to the side.

“Like five minutes ago, girl.” Alya shook her head, zipping a pink dress into a garment bag. “You’ve been zoned out since you got that phone call earlier. You even almost packed your lunch into a box for the display.”

Marinette gave a sheepish grin and rubbed the back of her neck. “Sorry. It’s still sinking in.”

“Alya told me you’re going to show off your work at the fashion expo tomorrow. That’s incredible news, Marinette,” Chat Noir said.

“I couldn’t have done it without you. Really, thank you.” She stretched up to hug his neck.

“Tell you what, why don’t I come down tomorrow and model a few things for you live? It’s sure to impress some people, and as the official superhero spokesperson for your brand, I feel obligated to promote you as much as I can,” he said.

“That would be amazing! I’ll pack the mask and ears.”

“Great, then I’ll see you two tomorrow.” Chat Noir gave a two finger salute and took his leave through her skylight.

Marinette patted her cheeks and took a deep breath. Alya was right, she needed to get her head out of the clouds and focus on impressing everyone tomorrow.

“Should we pack any of your Chat Noir stuff?” Alya asked.

Marinette pursed her lips, examining the pile of cat sweaters and skirts, and shook her head. “Nah, I want to show off my regular stuff. The Chat Noir designs are more of a side project, and I want them to take me seriously.”

Alya shrugged and hung another garment bag on the rack. They finished packing everything for the display, and Alya called her sister to bring over clothes for a sleepover. The following morning, with the help of Marinette’s parents, they brought all of the items for her display down to the venue to set up.

Nervous butterflies fluttered in Marinette’s stomach, but she swallowed them down as they arranged her display. She could totally do this. Everyone was going to love her work, and pretty soon she and Adrien would be flying off into the sunset in her private jet and-

“What’s all this?” A tall woman in a fitted green blazer examined a pink dress on a mannequin with a peculiar look.

Marinette recognized her voice from the day before.

“You must be Mme. Lemieux. I’m Marinette, you invited me yesterday on the phone.” She offered a hand for her to shake, but Mme. Lemieux’s eyes were fixed on the items in Marinette’s display.

“It seems there was a bit of a miscommunication,” she said. “When I invited you to present your work, I just assumed you’d bring your Chat Noir pieces to display.”

“Oh…” Marinette deflated. “Well, the cat stuff isn’t what I primarily design. I do a variety of things as you can see, I’ve got-”

“Yes, yes, but no one wants to see variety. We want to see what you’re known for,” Mme. Lemieux said.

“What I’m known for?” Marinette recoiled.

Mme. Lemieux gestured to her display with a dismissive wave of her hand. “The event starts in a little over an hour. Can you swap all of these bland designs out for the Chat Noir line?”

Bland?! Marinette’s jaw clenched, the hammering of her heart burning her chest. As much as she wanted to scream and defend her work, Marinette didn’t want to ruin her chances, so she swallowed her pride.

“Sure,” she said through clenched teeth.

“Excellent. I look forward to seeing your true work.” Mme. Lemieux offered her a smile and disappeared up the aisle.

“Ugh!” Marinette growled when she was out of earshot. “Seriously? They invited me here to show off my stupid cat merch?”

“What’s the big deal, girl? You wanted to show off your work, and you did design all of the Chat Noir stuff.” Alya shrugged.

“Yeah, but I don’t want to be known as Chat Noir’s personal stylist! This was supposed to be my moment.” Marinette crossed her arms over her chest.

“And it still will be.” Alya paced over to wrap an arm around her shoulders. “Let’s just run home and grab your Chat Noir stuff and get it set up before the event starts, okay? There will be plenty of time in the future to show everyone your other stuff, but right now you’re riding the Chat Noir express.”

“I don’t suppose there’s any chance for me to hop off at the next station?” When Alya gave her a look, she let out a huff. “Fine. We’ll go get the Chat Noir stuff.”

They managed to make the swap in time, but as people flocked to her display, Marinette felt no sense of pride as she fielded questions about what Chat Noir was like (annoying) or what his favorite color was (who cares?). No one was even looking at her designs, and to add insult to injury, her live model was running late. When he finally dropped in from the ceiling, everyone abandoned her to gawk over him.

“Chat Noir!”

“Is Ladybug with you?”

“Are you single?

“Will you sign my face?”

“Whoa!” Chat Noir held up cautioning hands. “One at a time, girls. This cat needs to talk to his purrsonal stylist.”

Marinette crossed her arms over her chest, grinding her teeth together. “How nice of you to finally join us.”

“Sorry, I got a little caught up, but my incredible physique is all yours for the rest of the afternoon.” He flexed a bicep, sending his fangirls into a tizzy of excited shrieks and squeals.

“Great.” Marinette grabbed the nearest articles of clothing from the rack — a green cat jacket and a black kitten skirt — and thrust them at him. “Go put these on.”

“Uhh…” His mask furrowed.

Alya stepped in and linked her arm through his. “I’ve got you. Chat Noir will be back shortly, ladies.”

“Yay.” Marinette rolled her eyes.

She retreated back to her display while Chat Noir’s fans crowded around to await his return. When he reemerged in a green and black biker jacket, pawprint shirt, and dark jeans, his fans went wild.

“Whoa, whoa, back up! One at a time.” Alya forced herself between Chat Noir and dozens of grabby hands. “Single-file, everyone will get a turn to take pictures with Chat Noir.”

Marinette watched them all bounce up to him twirling their hair and batting their eyelashes, asking him what his favorite TV show was or if he and Ladybug were together. They commented on how cute he looked, giggling in delight when he’d flip his hair or strike a pose. Not a single one of them complimented her craftsmanship or even cared about the tiny cat-shaped buttons she’d molded by hand. No one cared about her designs, not even on her blog — they only cared about him. And Marinette had enough.

Squeezing through the throng of teen girls, Marinette tapped his shoulder. “Chat Noir, I need to talk to you.”

“Sorry, but you’ll have to wait your turn like everyone else,” he said, smiling for another picture.

“I don’t think I will.” Marinette yanked his collar to face her.

“Oh, sorry, Marinette. I didn’t realize it was you.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “Your display is really popular right now, and I’m kind of busy, can we talk later?”

Marinette bit a sharp retort on her tongue, opting instead to say, “No. We’re gonna talk right now.” She took his wrist and dragged him away from the crowd.

“Hey? Where are you taking him? It was almost my turn!” One girl whined.

“Chat Noir is going to model another outfit for you, he needs to change. It’ll just take a minute,” Marinette called, shoving him behind the curtain of her booth.

He looked her up and down apprehensively when she pulled the curtain shut and cocked a hip.

“Uh, are you gonna stand back here while I change or-”

“You’re not changing, dummy!” Marinette snapped, rolling her eyes.

Chat Noir shrank, lips puckering into the perfect pout that she wanted to slap off his face.

“Did I do something wrong?” he asked.

Marinette took a deep breath, forcing her shoulders to relax. “No, I’m sorry. It’s not you, it’s just… Today isn’t really going how I thought it would. I was hoping to show off my original designs, but then the event coordinator told me no one wanted to see my real designs. This is all just a lot, and it’s really frustrating.”

“Marinette, you’re worrying about nothing. You made this outfit with your own two hands. It is your original work, and everyone is looking at it!” Chat Noir said.

“No, everyone is looking at you.” Marinette jabbed his chest with her finger.

“I mean, can you blame them? I am incredibly handsome.” He flashed her a smug grin, but she wasn’t in the mood.

“Kittycat? What’s taking so long? I was hoping to get a picture with you.” One of his fangirls poked her head behind the curtain as if to prove Marinette’s point.

“I’ll be out in just a sec!” he called. “I gotta go, but don’t worry. I have this in the bag for you.”

“Oh, do you? How generous,” Marinette said, not bothering to mask the bite in her voice.

“Whoa, hey, I’m just trying to help you out.” He held up defensive hands.

“Help me out or boost your own ego?”

“Here, kitty-kitty!” His fans called.

“Me-ouch! You’ve got a temper to match Ladybug’s. It’s not my fault I’m so popular!” Chat Noir huffed. He pulled back the curtain and waved to his adoring fans.  

Marinette’s nails dug into her palms, cheeks burning hot. Her annoyance bubbled into her throat, poisoning her tongue with red-hot rage.

“You are the most selfish, self-absorbed, egotistical boy I’ve ever met!” she shouted. “You were supposed to be doing me a favor, but all you’ve done is inflate your own big head! I’m tired of making designs with your stupid face on them!”

Chat Noir’s eyes widened, the shock of her words sending a hush over the room, but just as quickly as the words left her lips, Chat Noir’s fangirls turned on her.

“Ugh, she’s just jealous.”

“Yeah, no one would ever look at her ugly designs without you, kitty.”

“She should be thanking you!”

One girl pushed over a mannequin in protest, another ripped a page of unused designs from Marinette’s sketchbook off the wall and crumpled it up. Two girls flipped the table of shirts for sale while another set ripped a sweater in half.

“Whoa, whoa, girls!” Chat Noir attempted to catch another mannequin as it fell. “Marinette worked really hard on all of these, so please just-”

“No, go ahead!” Marinette urged. “Make sure you rip every last stitch!”

“Marinette!” Chat spun on her, eyebrows knitting together.

She pursed her lips when his eyes watered and shook her head. “Just transform and go home. I’m done.”

She turned and stalked off, leaving his rabid fangirls to do their worst. Kicking open the door to the women’s restroom, she locked herself in the nearest stall and rubbed her temples. She should have listened to Alya from the beginning and been more patient. Then her blog wouldn’t be filled with Chat Noir’s stupid fangirls. At least when it was just her friends, the comments came from people who actually cared about her work. Getting attention quickly came with more drawbacks than she anticipated. Why did she ever agree to let Chat Noir model for her? She should have known she’d get buried under his fame.

“M?” Alya knocked on the stall door.

“I’m not coming out.”

“Okay, then let me in,” Alya said.

Marinette pursed her lips and unlocked the door, letting Alya slip into the stall with her before locking it again. She leaned against the wall and crossed her arms over her chest.

Alya looked her up and down, shoulders slumping. “I’m sorry, girl. You tried to tell me earlier that the Chat Noir stuff bothered you, but I didn’t listen. I guess I just didn’t want you to miss an opportunity to get your name out there, but I never considered that this wasn’t the attention you wanted.”

“It’s just so annoying! This was supposed to be my chance to shine, but as far as they all care, he could be modeling a potato sack. No one’s even looking at my designs, and truthfully, I don’t want to look at them anymore either! I never wanted to be Chat Noir’s official brand ambassador.” Hot tears stung her eyes, spilling down her cheeks in streaks.

“Then we’ll start over and put out something you’re proud of next time, okay?” Alya placed her hands on Marinette’s shoulders. “You don’t have to work with him anymore, but I think you owe Chat Noir an apology. When I took him to change into the first outfit, he said he was really happy for you. I know he can be kind of full of himself, but he just wanted to help. I don’t think he ever wanted to upset you.”

Marinette swallowed the lump in her throat and shifted her weight. Alya was right. Chat Noir was a lot of things, but the last thing he’d ever want to do is hurt someone. Even if his theatrics got on her nerves at times, he was a good friend. A good friend that just wanted to help…

“Ugh!” Marinette buried her face in her hands. “I shouldn’t have yelled at him. He probably hates me.”

“He was pretty hurt, but… I think he realized how out of hand things had gotten. We both ran off to look for you. You should go try to find him. I’ll go do damage control at your display,” Alya said.

Marinette wiped a tear from her cheek and smiled. “Thanks, Alya.”

“What are best friends for?” She winked, pulling Marinette in for a tight hug. “Go make things right. I’ve got your back.”

Marinette unlocked the stall and retreated from the bathroom. Alya split off toward the showroom, while Marinette started up the hall. When she rounded the corner, she collided with a soft shirt, stumbling back. Gentle hands caught her as she scrambled to find her footing, and Marinette found herself looking up into woeful green eyes bordered by a black mask.

“Hey!” She blinked.

“Hey…” He steadied her, then let his hands fall back to his sides.

She bit her lip. He shifted his weight, and silence stretched between them as neither one knew quite what to say.

“I’m sorry!” They finally blurted at the same time.

Chat Noir rubbed the back of his neck. “I shouldn’t have blown you off when you told me you were upset. I’m sorry.”

“No, I’m sorry,” Marinette said. “You were trying to help, and I lost my cool. I guess I was just jealous that everyone cared about you more than me.”

“You had every right to be mad. Today was supposed to be a big opportunity for you, and I let all the attention go to my head. I didn’t mean to steal your thunder. Will you forgive me?” He hung his head like a scolded kitten.

“Only if you forgive me. I shouldn’t have yelled at you and said such hurtful things,” she said. “Are we cool?”

He nodded, a smile breaking over his lips. He pulled her in for a tight hug, but just as her shoulders relaxed, Chat Noir flipped her to the ground, narrowly dodging a cat-shaped throwing star.

[wttcsms]

same anon who will die on the daylight hill ‼️ when you said time flies when you have an on and off relationship with your writing, i felt that 🫣 it’s been a year since my last one-shot, and 4 years since the fic ppl still ask about…. it’s like “🥰 oh, how nice….” *thinks about other things instead*

but let me tell u. the time that passes between updates hardly matters bc the feelings daylight elicits are immortal!! the longing, the hopeful love between them…. the safety and the desire to offer safety *sobs* it’s GOLDEN and it’s left such an impression on me, i’ll be ready to jump in 💘

stop!!! this makes me so happy to hear 🥹 if ur ever comfy with hopping into my dm's, show me ur writing!!!! i want to be one of the ppl still hyping up ur fics and then jumping for joy whenever i see an update 10 years later 🤭 (which is the same rate i'll be updating at... rihanna might actually drop an album and go on tour before we ever see a new update from me)

u actually snuck into my brain and grabbed all the thoughts related to the theme of daylight and then spouted it all back to me (bc i refuse to believe that my writing did a good enough job at depicting what i wanted to, so u have top tier reading in-between the lines 🤭🤭🤭) i hope you enjoy part three in its entirety bc we get to see even more of that longing and SO MANY PARALLELS in the roles reader and colt take up in their relationship. eventually, we will see reader becoming colt's safety in a big way (and we get to see colt being insecure in the relationship bc of his "status" and what he's done during the war)!!!! so very excited to see him and reader form an even deeper connection after all the awful things they will be forced to endure in pt 3 <3