#//the girls messing with thad because they can
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rory-multifandom-mess · 7 months ago
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My Thad Headcanons
Because I'm so totally autism about him, you have no IDEA
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I took this from a fic I read, but Thad runs warm. By this I mean his cooling system likes to malfunction every now and then and he has to throw himself into a bunch of icepacks until it works again. If he overheats, he’ll shut down so it systems can cool down much like a phone would
He's self conscious about his sharp canines, but not in the sense that he’s constantly thinking about it. It’s more like a “if i look at myself in the mirror and see my smile, I’m going to remember they’re there and be like ‘oh. that’s not right.’” Because of his insecurity with his sharp teeth, he refuses to go to the dentist
The fact Uzi had a crush on him before meeting N absolutely flew over his head (he’s stupid)
He likes girls AND boys
Ever since the fight with J and V in the pilot, he coughs up oil on occasion. Basically; Worker Drones are stupid and don’t know anything about their own anatomy, so instead of trying to fix the internal damage, they just welded his wounds closed, so now he’s just perpetually internally bleeding
He heals pretty quickly and has a high pain tolerance (entirely because he’s a sports player, and also he heals quick because of the fact he runs warm)
Sometimes he’ll get nightmares about the attack with V and J and also when Solver yonk’d his ass in episode 2. These fucked him up for a little while after and he couldn’t sleep very well, but they’re not as big of a problem anymore
His room is usually surprisingly neat and full of trophies and medals and other various sports memorabilia
Gets really competitive during football matches, but has really good sportsmanship <3 like he’ll be screaming shit during the match and then he’ll lose and to the other team he’s like “good job guys you absolutely rocked it out there, but we’ll beat you next time i’m sure of it >:)” he likes a lil friendly competition
Thad and Lizzy are twins but he’s younger than her by like 2 minutes. She teases him for this. In retaliation, he teases her because he’s taller (by 1 inch)
Sometimes they get in trouble for ‘bullying” each other, but every time they do, Lizzy just says “Siblings are fair game!” and Thad nods
I think he says “no problemo” a lot. He also says other silly phrases like "Okie Dokie Artichokie" and calling things "Rad" and ironically saying" tubular." Lizzy says "This isn't the 80's" and then he responds with "Well the 80s were sick as heck dude so I don't care"
He's a morning person
Listens to highly energetic songs without paying attention to the lyrics, so he’ll listen to the most like. Innapropriate songs without even realizing it just because they’re bops
Gets dating advice from Ron (the drone at the door from episode 2 for those who forget the bg characters)
Yk how people will throw food like popcorn into the air and then catch it in their mouths? yeah he’s really good at that
Sometimes when he can’t sleep he goes out and plays basketball by himself. tires him out so he can eep
Has a nice singing voice, but he doesn’t think he does (i’m projecting)
He doesn’t like to swear, but sometimes jokingly says “I will swear word at you” to his friends
If he’s holding something, he’ll start idly just flip it in the air and catch it over and over. subconsciously too, he just does that
He also plays Soccer and Basketball
Sometimes when someone grabs him unexpectedly, he’ll flinch a little (thanks solver). This usually only happens if he’s been spacing out or doesn’t see the person who grabbed him at first
Chill until someone messes with Lizzy. Then he will fight. Though she’s one of the popular girls so it doesn’t happen often
Weak to flirting; he gets flustered easily. Yet he’s a total flirt when he likes someone and is comfortable enough around them
I like to think Thad gets hurt a lot because he’s a fucking football player and usually he doesn’t get it fixed because it’s normal, but Lizzy and/or Uzi will yell at him to get it fixed because it could fuck with the strength of his casing
One time Thad said “Bite me” to Uzi and she just looked at him like a smug cat while he had a moment
Sometimes he’ll try to hide in his collar when he’s flustered (it never works)
He, Lizzy, and Doll were a trio of best friends (Until Doll's Solver infection started getting really bad and began distancing herself from the other two)
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gallusrostromegalus · 1 year ago
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ok so re: sternritter i gotta ask, whats the plan for my girl gigi? she's a horrible awful gremlin baby but i cannot help but love her immortal tgirl swag.
also, are there any sternritter who got incredibly underused in the story that you've significantly rewritten so far?
As it stands, Gigi gets to live, but she is going to have to sit through a VERY unpleasant lecture about how yes, Gender is Fake, Political Organizations are Fake, and to an extent the 'Line' between living and dead is fake but Bodily Autonomy and Informed Consent are VERY, VERY REAL and you will *fucking* respect them because the Gotei-13 is the home of monsters.
For better or for worse, the person she's getting the lecture from is Tama Nikuya
---
Tama: Sure, you're a Monster too, Miss Gewelle -that's why I like you so much and am even extending you this offer- but I promise there are much worse things serving in the Guard than were dreamt of in your philosophy. Horrors, artificial and natural alike, well within the comprehension of your intellect regardless of gender, but no less awful. Worse, perhaps, because you understand what's going to happen if you put one drop of blood out of line-
Gigi, twitching: Urrgh!
Tama: Don't gurgle at me in that tone! Tama: You do understand, don't you?
(warning for body horror, parasitism, mind/body control, discussions of violence, transphobia and abuse under the cut) (Bleach is a pretty dark series and the Fic is E-rated accordingly)
Gigi, shaking her head as much as she can: Nglk!
Tama: What part don't you understand?
Gigi: Thzzg-? ThhZomg-!?
Tama, head cocked sideways, squinting as she tries to make sense of what Gigi is saying: 'the zog-'? The Zombie? Oh for fucks sake Gigi, we're well past that.
Gigi: Bugh-? Haaauuuu?
Tama: Alright alright, if it will help. The Zombie relies on some of your blood reaching my brain, or replacing a large portion of my own blood with yours, through which you exert your reiki, and thus control my body, right?
Gigi, Blinking Slowly: ... Gigi: Haugh- Haugh gid you vigure thad oud??
Tama, taking a deep, disappointed sigh: Babygirl, it's not that hard. That's very basic Spiritual Dominion magic. Don't get me wrong, you're very good at it and the sheer number of targets you can control is really impressive but as far as techniques go, it's not terribly complex or hard to counter.
Tama, Gestuting at where Gigi is awkwardly kneeling on the floor, paralyzed: Take the thing you've got- that's an enhanced strain of Ophiocordyceps unilateralis- you've heard of Cordyceps, I'm sure- that I've worked with to function inside humans- REAL pain in the ass by the way, Humans are insanely immune to infection and parasitism compared to most organisms-
Akon, holding an extremely large laser gun, not currently cocked but still at the ready: This is your requested reminder to stay on topic, Sir.
Tama: What? Oh, thanks- but Cordyceps is fun because instead of bothering to control the half-assed mess that is a mammal's neural system, it straight-up structurally takes over the large muscle groups! Just suppress the autoimmune response enough by giving the fungus an antihistamine release function too, and that sucker can crawl into every major support structure you have in under a week!
Akon: Yeah, I'm not sure 'Fun' is the right word here.
Tama: Don't knock it until you've tried it!
Akon, debating becoming the server technician for the 9th again: I'll take your word for it, Sir.
Tama, poking Gigi's arm just below where a long spire of the fungus is sprouting out of her shoulder, one of several growing out of her body and impacting her ability to move, including speaking: I'd say you're about 40% Fungus by weight right now, mostly your skeletal muscles, and those do what I say, which is why you're sitting down and listening while I try to change your mind. Tama, giving Gigi an encouraging thumbs up: -And why you still have a mind for me to change! Tama, giving Gigi a comforting pat on the shoulder next to the fungal spire: I have a lot of faith in your ability to make the right choices when presented with all the information, Miss Gewelle. If I thought I had to change your mind for you, I'd have pulled out the Hypomyces lactifluorum!
Gigi, watching Akon visibly shudder behind Tama: ...uhh. Gigi: Bugh. The Zomgee..?
Tama: Oh, right, The Zombie. Yes, yes- Reiki Domination is pretty tough to resist, especially from someone in your spiritual weight class, but, ah- Well, you've run into two big problems here Gigi.
Tama, sitting down on the floor next to Gigi: First problem is the use of blood as an infection mechanism. Tama, cheerfully, as though giving constructive criticism in an introductory art class: Honestly? Not a bad choice! Blood-bourne infections are some of the hardest to resist, and Forigen Reiki is a PAIN to purge from the bloodstream unless you flush the entire system. Most people, as you have seen, are doomed!
Tama, wincing: ...But I'm not most people. Tama, pondering: ... Come to think of it "People" might be a more correct term for what I am, but my situation is pretty radically different from "most" people!
Gigi, still defiant: Whad- Whaddafug ARE yu?
Tama, gesturing to indicate the situation is about as clear as mud, or morphology-based taxonomy: I- Well. It's long and not really all that funny story, but I got stuck on the wrong side of a a version of the Kodoku Bug Thunderdome curse- you know, the inside- for over eight hundred years with a whole mess of Hollows, Obake, and other nasty things and I went to some pretty extreme measures to survive. Tama, with a sad sigh: To make a long story short- I don't have blood anymore. Or a brain. Tama, frowning in contemplation: ...Or I'm ALL brain, it sort of depends on your definition of 'brain'-
Akon: Topic, Sir.
Tama: Thanks Akon! -But from my perspective, your blood is just another snack with a little bit of Reiki spice on top! Which brings me to your other problem.
Tama: You hit hard Gigi! Real hard! And you really should be proud of the degree of concentration you have! But like I said, the Gotei-13 is the home of monsters, and there wasn't exactly a burger joint or an opportunity to farm inside the Kodoku. ...I survived because I kind of literally ate things like you for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
[There is a long moment of silence as Gigi processes that statement, it's earlier compainion statement about what Gigi's blood was like for Tama, and the general implication of those on Gigi's circumstances]
Gigi: ...Gid I daste gud?
Tama, ears flicking up to listen better: What's that?
Gigi: Uck! Gigi, wide eyed with terror but somehow this situation has not ended in catastrophe yet, and she might be riding the adrenaline as far as it will go: ...Gid I datse good?
Tama: HAH!
Akon, turning around because he can't face this at 7AM without coffee: NO!!
Tama, teasing: Yes, you do taste very good, or at least the aperitif of blood you threw in the thing I use as a face did!
Gigi, giggling a bit in fear like a Hyena: Oh! Dhad'z Good! Gigi, stopping as the rest of the sentence catches up with her: Waid. Gigi: Whad Do you MEANg, 'ting you uze az a fage'? Gigi, with increasing horror: Whag- Whag ARE You?
Tama, giving Gigi a light, encouraging punch in the shoulder: You're a smart girl Gigi! You can figure it out if you put your mind to it! Tama, counting off the datapoints on her paw-pads: I don't have blood, or a brain, I lived underground with nothing but corpses to eat for a few centuries and my go-to restraint method is a parasitic...
Gigi, a horrible new world of possibilities opening to her like the lid coming off a tub of very expired sour cream: ...Mu-Mushgroom?
Tama, giving her two thumbs up: You got it! Tama: "Mushroom" is probably more specific than you intended, but you're not wrong! The part of me standing here lecturing you is more or less the organ I use for sex and sometimes paperwork!
Akon: Speaking of, the division W-2's still need to go out-
Tama: Akon, we're in the middle of an apocalypse. If the council tries to make everyone pay taxes on time this year, the Old Man won't have the chance to burn the government chambers down before the peasants do it for him. Chillax.
Tama, returning her attention to Gigi: It's probably why I'm so cheerful and down to party too! You know. Because I'm a *Fungi*!
Gigi, staring blankly: ...
Tama, wilting a bit: -A. Fun? Guy? A Fungi?
Gigi, starting to cry big, ugly genuine tears: Uh-uh-uuuuuhhhnnn...
Tama, trying to console Gigi with a hug that definitely makes things worse: ...You're right it'd probably be funnier if you didn't have a parasitic fungus rapidly taking over your person and forcing you to sit still and listen to a genuine freak of science tell you about Cannibalism. Tama, giving Gigi a little shake of encouragement: But you see how this makes my point, right? This isn't very fun for you, is it?
Gigi, suddenly locking up like a badly taxidermied fox: ...
Tama, staring blankly: ..? Tama, ears slowly rising as understanding dawns on her face: Oh?
Gigi, face rapidly alternating vivid shades of pink and white as her emotions battle for dominance, before settling on 'Scaroused': -Uh...
Tama, delighted: OH!
Akon, enraged: OH. MY GOD.
Tama, pointing at him and hissing: You are the LAST person who gets to kinkshame anyone young man! Tama, pointing back at Gigi: At least SHE knows how to have fun!
Akon: I'm gonna transfer to the Ninth and never, ever leave the server room again.
Tama: If you think you can withstand the emotional toil of leaving the mass spectrometer in my hands, be my guest.
Akon: :(
Gigi: Uh?
Tama: He's spiritually bonded to a particularly finicky piece of lab equipment that hates me, like how some tween girls become spiritually bonded to giant murderous equines, which also tend to hate me. Don't worry about it. Tama: Back on topic, this does explain a few things. You DO understand that your feelings about this situation are unusual and given that most humans and their spiritually powerful derivatives experience pain and fear from having their autonomy restricted and bodies invaded by parasites, How do you think being made into a Zombie feels for other people?
Gigi: ...Bahd?
Tama, nodding enthusiastically and making her ears flop in agreement: That's right! Bad! Tama, settling down a bit more to explain things carefully to Gigi: See, the thing is- even monsters like us need to get along with other people. Tama: I know a lot, but nowhere near enough to enjoy the benefits of civilization all on my own- I don't know how to fix a toilet, or fill out grant applications or stand in the same room as the mass spectrometer without breaking it, so it's really, really good I've got people Akon over there, who like me, who can, and more importantly are willing to do those things for me!
Gigi, annoyed: Gyou woulgnd AVV to-
Tama: hang on, hang on-
[Tama pokes a few points on Gigi's face and throat, using Reiki to disconnect some of the Cordyceps parasite, then pulls the spire that was developing under Gigi's tongue out. It's much larger than it looked, and makes Gigi's throat wiggle as she removes it.]
Tama: Oh hell, that shouldn't have been there. How were you even talking around that thing girl?
[Tama tosses the fungal spire aside and offers Gigi a water bottle. Gigi takes a few sips before nodding and Tama puts it away.
Tama: Okay, try again-
Gigi: Ugh- You wouldn't HAVE to get along with tall, drak and grumpy back there if he was a zombie!
Tama, disappointed: ... Tama, taking another deep sigh: ...Okay, let's say I zombify Akon-
[Akon cocks and aims the Laer Gun, which whines ominously as it charges]
Tama: WHICH I AM NOT GOING TO DO FOR REASONS I'M ABOUT TO ELABORATE ON, PUT THAT DOWN-
[Akon turns off and lowers the lazer gun, still glaring.]
Tama: Thank you. Tama: I know you're still getting used to how most people have conversations, but that was a normal way to discuss a theoretical scenario and not me about to turn you into a Zombie. Do you understand?
Akon: ...Ues, Sir.
Tama: He used to work for an Evil Clown, don't worry about it- Alright, Let's say I was a micromanaging-type moron, and I decided to zombify Akon instead of just getting along with him. I'd lose all his expertise immediately. No more functioning mass spectrometer or bathrooms.
Gigi, haughty: Mine do.
Tama: Pardon?
Gigi: My zombies keep. most of their skills and personality. At least the ones I make out of corpses. Gigi: Akon could still fix the mass-thingie and if you zombify the Grant Committee you don't even have to ASK for funding.
Tama, intrigued: ...Do they? That's good to know, I'll want to hear more about that later-but that still supports my point.
Tama: Alright, HYPOTHETICALLY I Zombify Akon, and the Grant Committee- well now, the person who's choosing when the mass spectrometer gets fixed and who gets grant money I don't need is ME, and I already have WAY too much work to do, I don't have initiative to spare for them! I got stuff I want to do! I can't micromanage everyone, everywhere all the time! Tama: It's literally easier, more efficient and frankly, way, WAY less stressful to just get along with people and live in a society than to try to DIY one out of corpses.
Gigi: ...I guess.
Tama: So that's my question Gigi. Tama: Are you capable of respecting people's bodily autonomy and personal space to get along with them?
Gigi, frowning and biting her lip: ...
Akon: That doesn't sound like a 'Yes'.
Gigi: It's not though. It's not less stressful to just get along with people. Gigi: That's- That's WHY I learned how to make zombies in the first place. I'd. I'd TRY to get along, dammit! But any time I let people make choices, they chose to get up my ass about my name, or cut off all my hair, or send me off to 'camp', or beat the shit out of me, or- or lock me in the mausoleum and leave me to starve instead of just call me my name or admit they had a daughter- Gigi: ... Gigi: So it was- Gigi: -It was easier with bodies. Gigi: Bodies don't insist you're a boy or call you a freak or take you to a 'private institution' to 'help you get better' where they strap electric paddles to your head and run a million volts through you- Gigi: Dead people are SO MUCH EASIER to get along with! They don't think you're a creep! They don't think at all! Gigi: I mean, why should I-? Why should I try to get along with people who have already made up their minds that they're never, ever gonna get along with me??
Akon: ... Akon: ...I mean, you are kind of a creep-
Tama: -AKON!
Akon: Hang on I'm not done! You are a bit of a creep, but it's not the girl thing, it's the zombie thing!
Gigi: Oh, just because you're scared of a dead body-!
Akon: GIRLIE I'VE BEEN DISSECTING CORPSES SINCE BEFORE I COULD TALK I AIN'T FUCKIN' SCARED AND I AIN'T DISAGREEING WITH YOU- YEAH. IT IS EASIER TO TALK TO A CORPSE THAN A PERSON. I SPENT PRETTY MUCH ALL MY ADOLESCENCE IN THE 12TH DIVISION'S MORGUE BECAUSE TALKIN' TO LIVE PEOPLE SCARED THE FUCK OUTTA ME!!
Gigi: WIMP! YOU HAVE NO IDEA-
Akon: NO, I THINK I FUCKIN' DO! Akon: YOU KNOW WHERE URAHARA HIRED ME OUT OF? Akon: PRISON. Akon: I GOT THROWN IN PRISON WHEN I STILL HAD ALL MY BABY TEETH, *JUST* BECAUSE I WAS SO CURIOUS ABOUT BODIES. JUST BECAUSE I MADE PEOPLE UNCOMFORTABLE! PRISON-PRISON! THE MAGGOT'S NEST, WHERE THEY KEEP WAR CRIMINALS AND WORSE! Akon: YEAH, TALKIN' TO LIVE PEOPLE SCARED THE SHIT OUTTA ME, BECAUSE THE LAST TIME I TALKED TO SOMEONE, I LITERALLY GOT SENT TO HELL!
Gigi: -!
Akon: Captain Nikuya is RIGHT, the Gotei-13 is the home of Monsters- and the twelfth has got some of the most freakish and frightening ones of the whole guard! Akon: But I'll take the self-vivisecting, species-transgressing, only-barely-human Monsters any day of the week over the maggot's nest because we're all shamelessly, gloriously monstrous together, and the ONE damn rule of the monster's ball is to ASK before you fuck around with someone's stuff, especially their body. Akon: Not "Don't mess with someone's body", Not "Don't be weird", Not "try to be normal". It's "Be freaks and monsters, but also friends."
Akon: God help me if Nemuri ever finds out, but that's why Mayuri is still in that flask. Most of us have a pretty good idea how to isolate his consciousness again, but they way he- I'd have killed him the week after he took over if I had any idea how.
Akon: That's the rule Gigi. No violating anyone's right to live as they are. Akon: That's the difference between a monster- someone people are scared of just for being how they are- and the kind of FILTH that needs to be scrubbed off the earth. Akon: Do you understand Gigi? Nobody gives a shit if you're a girl on purpose or whatever- Fuck, I can think of a few colleagues who'd put themselves on a list for you to reanimate them when they die no matter how much of them actually comes back. It's overwritin' people's minds and controlling bodies BY FORCE. Akon, putting down the gun and patting his coat for his cigarettes: If I understood you right, that's more or less what people tried to do to you, isn't it? Tell you how to act, who you were, by whatever means necessary?
Gigi: ...fuck you.
Akon: Fuck me yourself, you coward.
Gigi: ... Gigi: So what am I supposed to do when someone gets up in my face again? Smile and play nice? Roll over so they can kick my guts out?
Tama: Oh, no- If they violate the "Don't mess with other people's autonomy" rule, all bets are off! That's why when you tried to murder me and Akon a few minutes ago, I was right to infect you with a parasitic fungus to protect myself and stop you! Tama: In fact, the sooner and harder you react to that shit, the less people will try to cross that line, so if anyone tries to fuck with you, you absolutely can and should make an example of them!
Akon, holding up his cigarette to ask if it's alright, and wating for Tama's nod: -If anyone tried that shit with me I'd absolutely turn them into a living educational exhibit on why people need to have skin, but genuinely? Nobody in soul society gives a shit what's in your pants unless they're your doc or fuckin' you.
Gigi, rolling her eyes: Sure, sure-
Tama, laughing: No! Really! It was a surprise for me too.
Gigi: You're lying to me.
Tama, shrugging: Okay, don't believe me, believe your eyes- Tama, ticking people off on her paw-pads: You saw the peacock earlier, he's a seated officer and Baldy is his Husband. Tama: Their boss is the most rampantly bisexual slut I've ever had the pleasure of meeting and the primary load-bearing member of the captainacy polycule-
Akon, starting to giggle: -Yeah I bet he can bear a lot of loads-
Tama, casually plucking off another fungal spire to half-heartedly throw at him: Oh, and the guy who had this job before me IS pregnant with his second child!
Gigi, incredulous: ...The guy with the stupid hat that looks like off-brand Shaggy from Scooby-Doo? That looks more a beer belly.
[Akon: Loud, Snorting Laughter]
Tama: Okay, you're right, it looks more like a beer gut than a baby right now, but PLEASE don't tell him that- He's in the weepy mood swings phase right now, and won't get his sense of humor back until the third trimester. Tama: We' re all placing bets on when Baby Kegger is gonna be born if you want in on the action.
Gigi, Biting her lip and grimacing: I- I don't-
Tama, taking Gigi's hand: -You know firsthand how weird my body is. I'm not properly male or female- I've got at least 21,837 sexes within me because of the insane way I have to metabolically regulate my body. Tama, shrugging: I'm just female in conversation because language hasn't evolved the 12th-dimensional pronouns I'd need yet. But when I brought this up at a meeting, the only question I got from the old man was if my uniform would need altering. Tama: I mean. It did, but that's because I'm 4'6" and i get all my clothes in the children's section, but I'm still amused that that was the captain-general's polite way of asking if I'd need any accomodations.
Gigi: ...Promise it'll be okay?
Tama: I don't know how the war is going to turn out, but if you help us and stop making zombies, I promise I'll do everything I can to make it okay.
[Gigi manages a weak smile]
Akon, wheezing, and doing a terrible Scooby-Doo impresson: Ruh-roh! Rhe Rexperiments Breached Containment, And Raggy's rust Whadder broke!
[Gigi, snorting and giggling in spite of everything}
Tama: See? Now you're laughing. When was the last time a Zombie made you laugh?
Gigi, sniffling a bit as she giggles: ...never.
Tama: So, are you ready to give an alliance a shot?
Gigi: I- I guess?
Tama: You guess? I can't go to the captain-general with a mere hypothesis.
Gigi: ...Yes. Yes, I'm ready.
Tama, grinning: So you're going to be a good girl and keep your bodily fluids to yourself unless asked?
Gigi, turning bright pink: Y-yes!
Tama: Yes, what?
Gigi, going even redder: Yes, sir!
Tama, patting her head and releasing the hold on the Cordyceps, at least for now: ...Very good girl.
Akon, rolling his eyes: Uuuugh....
Tama, helping Gigi up: Hey! You know damn well that positive re-enforcement-
Akon, hefting his Lazer-Gun back onto his shoulder: -is an important part of interpersonal communication, reward the behavior you want to see yeah, yeah-
[Akon is about to turn to leave when a thought occurs to him and he stops and glares at Gigi]
Akon: ...You DO hit like a fuckin' truck.
Gigi, blushing and twirling her hair: Well, I mean-
Akon, pointing accusingly at Tama: I KNEW IT! YOU'RE NOT RECRUITING HER FOR THE WAR, YOU'RE RECRUITING HER FOR THE SHINIGAMI WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION INTRAMURAL CRICKET TEAM!!
Gigi: -the what?
Tama: And what if I am? It doesn't matter to you- The Shinigami Men's Association couldn't keep their wickets up if their lives depended on it!
Akon: -Call me when Matsumoto-taicho can bat out of the pitch!
Tama: Yeah, the fact that Rangiku and Hiyori both suck at it and you STILL lost by 203 points to us is not actually helping your case here.
Gigi: Is. Is cricket a sport?
Akon: SPORT? Cricket is an entire EVENT! It's a Way of Life! It's the philosphical ideal of-
Tama: Yes. Tama: It's a very silly sport, and his team sucks at it.
Gigi: Ooh! If we all live through this, I can be a cheerleader!
Tama, causing problems on purpose: Yeah!
Akon, sputtering with fury: I- That's- CRICKET DOESN'T HAVE CHEERLEADERS!!
Gigi, pouting with her index fingers pressed together, rocking her hips: -But I wanted to cheer for YOU Mr. Akon!
Akon, freezing like a deer in front of an oncoming 18-wheeler: -! Akon, turning ever-so-slightly-pinkish about the ears: ...I'll think about it.
Gigi, grabbing onto Akon's arm: Yay! Gigi, hanging off Akon and babbling: What are the team colors? Do you think like Majorette uniforms are cuter or something more like a miniskirt and halter-top?
Tama, letting them get a bit ahead of her as she dials the main camp: Anyone on the horn? It's Nikuya.
Nanao, on the other end of the communicator: Status report?
Tama: Good news! I've eliminated an enemy, found us an ally AND a new batter for the team if we all live to see spring training.
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professorofcosplay · 6 months ago
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Murder Drones Headcanons since I have brainrot
— Uzi loves playing Mario kart with N since he’s a terrible driver because she always wins. She’s not above that. 
— Tessa wanted to be a hairdresser or in R&D for computer science when she grew up and loved practicing on her drones. She was leaning towards hair, though she had a knack with drones. You can imagine what her parents thought of these career leanings.
— J actually changed hair/wigstyles quite a bit because of this. The wildest “phase” was bubblegum pink. Her parents made her throw out the mohawk wig. :(
— J genuinely loved/loves Tessa, possibly even more than any of the others did; she just also faced the most punishment since she was the drone with Tessa the most and therefore she was the easiest to get ahold of. Thus, she faced Tessa’s parents’ wrath more often and was even more afraid of them than the others. This led to a sort of learned helplessness/submission in her that was hard to unlearn. 
— J is actually very, very self conscious. She’s isn’t a bully just to be a bitch but because she thinks it will save her from being the focus of someone’s wrath. Scapegoating at its finest. (Though she still is a bitch.)
— J steals the wigs from workers she kills and wears them sometimes. She doesn’t know exactly why; it just feels oddly familiar. 
— The three DDs all snuggled like a pile of puppies in the space pod when in sleep mode. The pod can be programmed for a destination but has to be piloted (or lack thereof) to the surface so they could just snooze until initial descent (and they did!). 
— Antifreeze is the drone equivalent of Monster energy drinks, so, naturally, Uzi lives off the stuff. 
— Most drones actually make their own wigs!   A lot of them are from thin wires they’ve scavenged from Copper 9’s wreckage, though there’s some made from melted plastic like faux hair human wigs. 
— Thad collects Nerf guns. They’re more fun than the real thing for him. That’s one thing Uzi and Thad can chat about for hours. 
— Thad and Uzi also collaborate (and compete) on pranks!  They have a prank hit list of workers they want to mess with and whoever checks everyone off first is the winner. Their favorite was replacing Lizzy’s lip gloss with oil. Cruel, yes, but the gross-out factor had them in stitches for at least an hour. 
— Thad has a JROTC-like chapter of the WDF as an after-school club. It’s mostly just LARPing with his Nerf collection.  
— V bites the tips of her claws as a nervous habit. They’re a bit dented and scuffed because of this.  
— Khan is a magnet user to cope with the stress of the colony’s existence on his shoulders, the loss of Nori, and single parenting. He doesn’t really tell anyone about it and is pretty high functioning. 
— N is a huge fan of stickers!  He has found a few packs of them and loves decorating himself/paper/Uzi’s hoodie when she’s not looking/pretty much everything them. 
— V and J are girl’s girls.
— Lizzy has painted V’s claws Barbie pink before. V absolutely adored how it turned out.
— Doll was adopted by Lizzy’s parents after her own family died and while she hides out at her old home to hide her consumption of oil/etc a lot of the time, she actually lives at Lizzy’s; this is why they’re so inseparable. 
— Speaking of Lizzy, the only one to mourn Doll’s loss will be Lizzy and her family, though Uzi will make every attempt to give her and what’s left of her parents’ remains a decent resting place.   — Humanized Khan is buff.
— Khan once threw Uzi a birthday party. None of her classmates showed up (though Thad did send a very nice card) so she only got one present. Guess what it was? 
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exhosong948 · 10 months ago
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Some “Bleeding Rose” Universe Headcanon that for some reason I wanna voice right now….
Character headcanon and tidbits for my story:
Serial Designation - J
As I’ve mentioned before, she fell in love with V back in the manor when it was just the two
After N came around and caught V’s attention, J’s resentment of him developed, this being the reason she’s so hard on him most of the time
Awhile ago, Tessa asked her if she wanted to be recalled for Mentoring other Disassembly Rookies, but because of her lack of patience even in “parental mode”, that idea was thrown out
A little idea that may or may not be kept: J might not have been switched out of parental mode…
J was one of Tessa’s first to be saved, the scenario was she accidentally disrespected Tessa’s father and toddler Tessa visited her while chained up outside, beginning their bond
I do boat with the headcanon that J likes plushies
J is an absolute mess when V flirts with her, while trying to assert her authority, she just kinda stands there😂
Being that J’s the oldest, she was made squad leader, and later the Flock Alpha (Doggyverse stuff) Only answering to Tessa as her higher up and is incredibly loyal to her, which may or may not cause some problems, hhhhhhmmmmmmm-
Serial Designation - V
During their time in the manor, she did in fact have…some feeling towards J, but after spending more and more time with N, when she learned she what love was, $hit hit the fan(Thanks Cyn😒)
Originally, she used her Boss’s “affection” for her own benefits, later actually falling for her
The two were always seen together as unlike poor N, they had each other to combat loneliness
V had also had experience with mentoring rookies, quickly being pulled from the program for her disobedience and violent tendencies
Being that she can be pretty reckless, she’s always a bit embarrassed when J fusses over her, that (for now) being J’s only leverage over V
V is very weary of Tessa and her intentions, doesn’t fully trust her but still respect and registers her authority
V is the menace of society, B being called her spawn😂😈
Serial Designation - N
N is pretty good at finding things and scavenging, that’s basically the girls only use for him, sending him off to gather supplies
He also likes drawing, as seen in canon, collecting shiny things, and he’ll go nuts over them (All DD’s have a thing for shiny stuff, just J and V repress it significantly better then N)
He’ll gift shiny objects and drawings to Uzi on a regular( A sign of affection)
He’s definitely a bit more weary with his family around Tessa, not as much as V but still
Is basically the Manny of the flock
Once the kids are around(hint hint nudge nudge), he normally doesn’t go psycho unless to protect them
Like the girls, at some point he was used as a mentor and switched into parental mode, was actively never switched out, explaining his feelings and behavior towards B
B also kinda reminds him of Cyn
Miscellaneous Stuff
Uzi is only ever called to babysit if N isn’t available, J doesn’t trust her as far as she could throw her, which we learn is pretty far)
B tends to remind Tessa of Cyn, so she scares her a bit, especially with her V’s inherent aggression and certain events that happen (again, hint hint nudge nudge 🤐)
Thad and Lizzy are slated to be married(marked for angst, you’ll see and so God help me if they are in fact canonical related, Please forgive me🤢)
Don't worry, Dizzy is in fact and will be made canon in this series, just not for a while in universe….
Doll can’t see herself as part of the colony anymore in the future, ends up self exiling and wanders around
Uzi could care less for “J’s brat” but still is willing to take care of her and keep her safe
Khan gets better as a parental unit, just never with Uzi
Tessa knows B and V have some trust issues with her, but being that she still deeply cares for them and they respect her (to her face) she lets it slide
Disassembly Drones are slated to “Migrate” for newer territories and to later let the land heal
Being that SD-B can’t fly, she’s a fast runner and high jumper, which later becomes her fighting style
And for now I think that’s everything, definitely will be updated after bleeding rose ends but for now, goodbye
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radioactive-earthshine · 2 years ago
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Thad or Carol?
I'll do both.
Thad.
Sexuality Headcanon: homosexual/homoromantic Gender Headcanon: Like Bart, his concept of gender is from 1000 years in the future so his boyness is different from ours, so by default he's sort of "boy adjacent" like Bart. He prefers he/him pronouns but is okay with anything as it doesn't really matter to him. A ship I have with said character: Preston. I'm also fond of him with Match and Kon. A BROTP I have with said character: I -really- want him to have a relationship with Kyle to carry on that Speedster/Green Lantern brotp theme DC has. Kyle has the personality to tolerate Thad's grumpiness so I feel like it would be a good friendship. A NOTP I have with said character: Him with his brother(s) and any of his family. A random headcanon: He's actually acrophobic scared of heights, but he hides it incredibly well. Helen is also "mom" to him even though to Bart she's in a more nebulous parenting role that's hard to define. To Thad she is strictly MOM. General Opinion over said character: Done dirty. I don't think there is a single current DC writer on the payroll right now that I trust with him. He was right at redemption then the rug was pulled on him for no reason. He's 100% a victim in his incarnation.
Carol (I assume you mean from Impulse).
Sexuality Headcanon: I really haven't thought about it, and she doesn't interact with many other girls in the comics unfortunately, but I think she's probably bi-curious. Gender Headcanon: Cis. A ship I have with said character: Her with Jenni is pretty cute. I also think her and Wade or Mike would be fair and wholesome. Cissie would also be really cute and I can imagine them talking about Bart and bonding together over him. A BROTP I have with said character: Her and Bart. A NOTP I have with said character: Thad. A random headcanon: Carol taught Bart how to draw and the appeal to art when he didn't see the value to it at first. General Opinion over said character: She's amazing and I love her, even if she's a little mean. I would have liked her with Bart better if it was not rushed to fulfill a man-pain narrative. The whole setup of them getting together was amazing, they were FRIENDS first and went through a lot of highs and lows and was setup to be great but like with Thad they messed up the execution. However, I also like them being just friends because I believe in STRONGLY of hetero-platonic relationships. We need to show men and women in strong close platonic relationships and Bart and Carol had that. So it's two-fold on two sides. Anyway, I love her and I miss her. I'm not sure why Valarie Perez was made to be a Carol clone when they could have just used Carol...
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medicatedmedium · 3 years ago
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Thad: Okay, so if Maggie was a sophomore back then, how old was she? How old were you? How old are you now?
Shiloh, an eldritch horror: Not as young as I could have been, but not as old as you might think.
Thad: Wow, that was frustratingly vague. [turns to Maggie] How old are you?
Maggie: I'm twenty-one.
Thad: See? That's an answer. That's how we answer people.
Maggie: Well, twenty-one how you'd measure in years...
Thad: Alright, I'm just gonna drop it.
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kurts-still-here · 3 years ago
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Can I Kiss You? Glee TOT Challenge FanFiction
@celery-elliry @useless-fanfictions @gleethisorthatchallenge
Hi everyone, this is my second fic for the Glee TOT Challenge and the prompt I choose was Kiss On A Dare and I chose it because it seemed perfect for Hevans. Hope everyone enjoys and tells me what they thought of it etheir on here, A03 OR FanFiction.Net. Happy reading 🤗🤗😁😁
Archive Of Our Own
FanFiction.Net
Kurt was currently at another one of horrible, drinking parties, sitting on the couch with Sam, Finn and Puck. This time Rachel had invited some of the Warblers so Blaine, Sebastian, Nick, Jeff, Trent, Wes, David and Thad were also there and they were some pretty crazy drunks (he already knew that from Blaine though). Once again him and Finn had decided to stay sober but this time, Sam had also decided against drinking, explaining that it made him feel weird. So they were all sitting on the couch, Finn and Sam laughing at a drunken Puck who kept trying to kiss him.
“Come on Princess, just one little smooch,” Puck slurred, scooting over towards Kurt just for Kurt to scoot away again.
“No,” Kurt said, irritated. “I don’t want to kiss you,”
“Why not?” Puck pouted, standing up and looking at him. “I’m hot and so are you,”
“Well I’m flattered Puck but really,” Kurt continued saying, blushing. “You’re straight and drunk, how am I supposed to believe that you really want to kiss me?”
“Well it doesn’t have to mean anything,” Puck explained. “Just for fun?”
“I don’t kiss for fun,” Kurt told him. “When I kiss someone I want it to mean something and I don’t want my first kiss to be with you when you’re intoxicated. Try sobering up first and then we’ll see,”
“You’re no fun Princess,” Puck told him. “Try living a little,”
“No thanks,” Kurt said, rolling his eyes and crossing his arms in front of him. “I knew I shouldn’t have let you two bring me here,” He said, referring to Sam and Finn who were still laughing at the two of them. “Look what I have to deal with,”
“It’s hilarious,” Finn laughed, “Who would’ve thought that Puck would want to kiss you?”
“Not me,” Kurt mumbled, swatting at Puck when he starting lean in, “Quit it,”
“Never,” Puck teased him before shouting out to everyone at the party, “Let’s play truth or dare,”
Kurt groaned as he heard a collective answer of yes. What were they, five years old? Who even played “truth or dare” still?
“Come one Princess, play with me,” Puck said, taking Kurt’s hand and dragging him to the center of the room where everyone had gathered around in a circle. Kurt rolled his eyes as he sat in between Puck and Sam and waited for all the chatter to die down so he could get the game over with and go home to bed.
“Okay, I want to go first,” Puck said to the group. “And I want to ask Princess over here.” Kurt gave him a glare but Puck continued. “So, truth or dare Kurt?”
“Truth,” Kurt said, getting the satisfaction that he would not be kissing anyone.
“Fine,” Puck mumbled. “Is it true that you want to kiss me?” He asked, smiling. Everyone laughed a little too loudly as Kurt gasped.
“No, it’s not true,” Kurt yelled. “I’m not going to kiss you. I will never kiss you, understand?’
“Hold up,” Artie said, putting his hand up in the air, his other hand holding a drink. “I want to kiss you,”
“What?” Kurt asked, annoyed. “No,”
“I want to go next,” Artie said, smiling and facing Kurt. “Kurt, truth or dare.”
“Truth,” Kurt said again, the answer obvious.
“Is it true that you want to kiss anyone in this room?”
“No, it’s not true,” Kurt said, “I hate all of you, stop laughing Rachel,”
“Aww, look how defensive he is,” Sebastian snarked. “I smell a lie,”
“Let me guess, you want to kiss me too?” Kurt said, expecting a no.
“I wouldn’t mind,” Sebastian said casually, making Kurt throw his hands up in the air while he heard all the other guys start talking too.
“I’d kiss you,” Mike offered and Kurt was surprised to see that Tina looked willing to see her boyfriend with him.
“Come on Kurt, give us what we want,” Blaine shouted, obviously too drunk to remember that they were broken up.
“Kurtie,” Brittany told him over the rest of the shouting, “Come on, you’re a great kisser. I want you to do it,”
“Britt, I’m sorry but no,” Kurt told her. “I don’t want to kiss them,”
“I thought you were gay,” Santana bitched. “Doesn’t that mean you want to get you man kisses on or something?”
“I’m also a romantic Santana,” Kurt explained. “And kissing a bunch of guys that can barely stand up straight, little alone think straight is not my idea of a romance,”
“Fine,” Santana said, a mischievous smile playing on her lips as she turned to the rest of the group. “Okay, listen up everyone, the new rule is that you have to alternate between truth and dare each time.” She said, raising a challenging eyebrow up at Kurt who in turn glared her down. “Got it?”
“Yes,” The group shouted, still drunkenly giggling and joking about kissing him. Never again was he going to a party, let alone playing a game with a bunch of high schoolers that couldn’t hold their liquor.
“Okay, I’ll go next,” Quinn offered and Kurt was begging her with his eyes not to choose him, thinking that she’d be one to spare him. He was wrong.
“Kurt,” She said and Kurt groaned while everyone else laughed. “I dare you to give anyone in this room that wants a kiss, whether they’re a girl or a boy a kiss,” She smiled, satisfied.
“Fine,” Kurt said, much to everyone’s surprise. “I’ll do it but then I’m leaving. And don’t expect me to call any of you for a while.”
“Be careful boys,” Santana warned, getting on Kurt’s last nerve. “Hate sex never ends well,”
“Puck get up,” Kurt demanded and Puck willingly and eagerly stood up and faced Kurt.
“What one more thing,” Santana exclaimed. “You have to lock lips with everyone for at least one minute. Although I don’t think anyone would be adverse to staying attached to you longer, Lady Hummel,”
“Fine,” Kurt said again. Why couldn’t he just say no and have people accept his answer? This was Karofsky and Blaine all over again. “Let’s get this over with Puck,”
“Play nice Princess,” Puck teased, not noticing how tense and upset Kurt was.
“And go,” Santana said once she had pressed start on the timer. Kurt stood up on his toes and pressed his lips against Puck’s before Puck opened his mouth and slid his tongue into Kurt’s. He hated the kiss, he tasted the alcohol Puck had drunk and was pretty sure he could get himself drunk from the taste alone. Meanwhile Puck was enjoying the kiss, having gotten exactly what he wanted. He placed his arms around Kurt’s waist and they stood there, making out for the minute that Kurt had been dared for.
Kurt was relieved when he heard the timer went off, admittedly pushing Puck away. Puck stumbled backwards and smiled at Kurt, making him feel sick.
“That was nice Princess,” He told him. “Wanna go for round two?”
“No thanks,” Kurt said, shortly as he turned to the rest of the group. “Who’s next?”
That night Kurt had kissed a total of five boys that night. After Puck he had kissed Artie, Mike, Blaine and Sebastian and each kiss got worse as it went on. For starters, they were all drunk and reeked of alcohol. The strong smell just reminded Kurt of the mess he was in and made him feel worse. The worst part of it all was how violated he felt. He made the first move on all of them, initiating the kiss but then somewhere in between the minute the other boys took over and then they were in control.
Kurt couldn’t shake the feeling that he had gotten when Karofsky had kissed him in the locker room that one day or when Blaine had wanted to have sex with him in the parking lot of Scandals. He felt nauseous and light-headed, vulnerable. He hadn’t been in control the first two times and the second one had been with someone who was drunk. He was never the one who made the first move and that bothered him. Brittany had been the one to come to him and had kissed him first, then Karofsky in the locker room, then Blaine after he had sung Blackbird and even though he had wanted Blaine to kiss him he still felt off about it. There was a lack of control on his part in all of those situations and Kurt needed control. And now he had been kissed by five drunken boys, surrounded by a bunch of his friends who were also intoxicated and for them to think that it was a joke and that by him not wanting to kiss anyone he was seen as some sort of prude or seen as stuck up. It wasn’t fair.
Once his minute with Sebastian was up he quickly got away from him and turned back to the group. Everyone was still laughing and they hadn’t seemed to notice that he was shaking and that he was scared.
“Happy?” He asked the group, shakily.
“Very,” Puck shouted to him, causing more giggling. God, why couldn’t they stop laughing?
“I have to go,” He whispered to himself before grabbing his bag off of the couch that he had been sitting on and before quickly walking out of the door. The fresh air greeted him once he stepped outside and shut the door and he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath before starting to cry. You would think that he was being stupid for crying over being kissed, over having people that wanted to kiss him and over having people find him attractive but he just didn’t like it. Being thrown around like he didn’t have feelings or that he didn’t deserve boundaries was one of the worst feelings in the world for him.
He had parked a few blocks down from Rachel’s house and he didn’t feel like walking so he just slumped down onto Rachel’s front steps and brought his knees up to his chest as he continued to cry. Hopefully no one would come out of the house and find him crying since he already knew that they wouldn’t understand and would think that he was just being dramatic. Unfortunately for him, someone had followed him out of the house and had gone to find him so he was found when someone opened the front door. Fortunately it was Sam and Kurt knew that if anyone was to understand what was going on it would be him.
“Hey,” Sam said, sitting down next to him on the stairs to find that Kurt was crying. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing,” Kurt told him, hiding his face in his hands even though it was dark outside and Sam couldn’t see him.
“Well unless you cry for no reason, it’s not nothing,” Sam told him and Kurt appreciated that at least one person could tell that he was uncomfortable even though it had taken him crying for someone to notice. “You can tell me.”
“I don’t feel good,” Kurt said. It wasn’t a lie, he didn’t feel that well it just wasn’t the full truth either.
“Why not?” Sam asked him.
“Because people can’t take no for an answer,” Kurt told him.
“Oh. I’m sorry about that, I knew it wasn’t really a good idea, I should’ve stopped them,” Sam admitted.
“It wasn’t your fault Sam, I could’ve declined the dare. At least you didn’t kiss me,” Kurt said, dryly. “Not that you would want to though,”
“No, that’s not true,” Sam said, surprising Kurt. “I would kiss you. It’s just that there’s a time and place for everything and after hearing you say that you like romance, it didn’t seem like the right time or place.”
“Wait Sam,” Kurt said, looking up to see Sam’s face in the streetlights. “Are you coming out to me?”
‘Yeah. I don’t really try to hide it anymore, ever since I moved back here. I just don’t go out of my way to tell people either so you’re the only person that knows.”
“Oh, well I’m happy for you,” Kurt told him. “How long have you known?”
“I don’t really know,” Sam admitted. “I think as I grew up, I just grew into it. I’ve never dated a guy before though,”
“I’m glad you trusted me enough to tell me. I won’t tell anyone if you don’t want me too,” Kurt offered. “I don’t do outing people,”
“I know you don’t,” Sam said, “But anyway this isn’t about me, it’s about you. Can you tell me what happened?”
“It’s hard to explain,” Kurt sighed. “I doubt you’ll even understand my logic but it’s just… I like being in control of myself and I didn’t feel that way when I was in there. Before that I’ve been kissed a total of three people, one of them that I won’t name but the other two being Brittany and Blaine and out of those three people, not once have I been the one to kiss first. And I know it’s probably a stupid detail to focus on but it bothers me. I didn’t really want to kiss Brittany, it was all just some stupid plan to get my dad to spend more time with me but it backfired. Then with the person I won’t name he…” Kurt paused, his breathing starting to become uneven and uncontrolled. “... he forced it on me, Sam and it was terrible. Out of all the bullying I’ve ever endured I don’t think I had ever felt that violated or uncomfortable before. And then he told me that if I told anyone that he would kill me and that just made me long for a sense of control over what happened in my life even more. And with Blaine the first time we kissed it wasn’t like I didn’t want it because I did but it was just that… he had led me on for so long and I was finally starting to get over him when he finally decided that he liked me back. Just another example of how out of control my life feels. I’m never the one to make the first move. I’m always seen as the feminine gay, the female in the relationship and maybe that’s how it has to be but I don’t like it. I don’t like how everyone thinks I need to be saved, that I’m some sort of princess who needs a prince. For once, I’d like to be in charge and I want to be the savior. And it’s not just in relationships. Before you moved back to Lima, we did West Side Story and I auditioned for the male lead but the reason I didn’t get it was because everyone thought that I wasn't fit for the role because I was too girly. I overheard Artie, Coach Beiste and Ms. Pillsbury say that I had “toothpick arms” and don’t quote me on this but that they needed someone that would “excite lady parts.” So Blaine got the part because he’s the masculine gay. And Blaine was always the one to kiss me first because he was my supposed “savior”. I’ve been through a lot Sam but that only made me stronger and it’s nice to have some help now and then but I feel like people misunderstand me and think that because I’ve been bullied so much that I’m vulnerable and that I need help. I just wish that someone would see me as more than the bullied gay kid that wears clothes that look like they’re for girls and who has a high pitched voice. I want to have an equal share in my relationship and I want to be with someone who can accept the fact that sometimes I may want to be the girl but other times I may want to be the boy. Is that really asking for too much?”
“Kurt you’re amazing,” Sam started to say, making Kurt blush, “and anyone who can’t see that or who doesn’t know that is stupid. I know how strong you are because trust me, not many people can do what you’ve done. Not a lot of people could survive in a town like this where they’re hated by about half of the population, where they’re constantly picked on just because of who they love, they just wouldn’t be able to take it. I know I wouldn’t be able to. I know that when you guys first started the New Directions that half the club hated you and now Finn’s your brother and Puck wanted to kiss you. I’d say that’s a big improvement and it makes you an even better person that you forgave them and don’t still hold a grudge. I’ve seen what you can do. It doesn’t matter how you’re seen because at the end of the day you did what you did. I’m sorry other people don’t see it that way. And I know it’s not my fault but I’m sorry you went through that with those people. If it make you feel better I know what it’s like to be kissed against your will,”
“It doesn’t,” Kurt admitted. “Do you mean at the strip club?”
“Yeah. You would think it’s any teenage boy’s dream to get paid to dance and kiss and have sex with women but it’s not. At least it’s not mine. I get the “feeling violated” thing. The only reason I kept doing it was because my family needed the money but thank god Finn and Rachel came because I hated it there,”
“You always are doing that,” Kurt told him. “Putting your family first. It’s sweet,”
“Thanks. It’s the least I can do really. Family has to stick together.” Sam paused and then sighed. “But here I am miles away from them.”
“Sam, it’s good to help out your family when you can but you’re still a kid. You deserve to be able to go to school and to have fun while you still can.” Kurt assured him.
“I know,” Sam said. “You helped me out a lot though. By giving me your clothes and by not telling anyone. And your clothes weren’t that bad either, they were actually kind of comfortable,”
“Thank you,” Kurt laughed. “But I would’ve done it for you in a heartbeat. I know it may not seem like much but when you stood up to Karofsky for me it meant a lot. You were the first person to ever do that for me,”
“Can I ask you something?” Sam asked Kurt, hesitantly. “And you don’t have to answer me if you don’t want to but you may want to talk about it,”
“Sure,”
“Was Karofsky the one that… you know, kissed you?”
“Yes,” Kurt said, sadly sighing to himself. “Apparently he hated me because he was jealous of me. Or because he loved me. It’s all confusing. How’d you figure it out?”
“Well being gay myself I sorta have a gaydar,” Sam joked. “But I saw him starring at my ass last year and then it kind of clicked in my head that he was gay when I thought about how he treated you.”
“You aren’t going to tell anyone, are you?” Kurt asked, nervously.
“Of course not,” Sam assured him. “It’s his choice whether he wants to come out or not,”
After that they stayed quiet for a while, looking out to the street of Rachel’s house and listening to the cars pass by and the faint music that was still coming from the party. Both boys could feel a sort of tension between them, like they wanted to ask one another something but couldn’t bring themselves to say it. Finally Kurt broke the tension.
“Sam?”
“Yeah,”
“Can I ask you something?”
“Yeah,”
“And you can say no if you don’t want to but…” He paused and took a deep breath. “... can I kiss you?”
“Yeah,” Sam breathed, turning to face Kurt. “I’d like that,”
“Okay,” Kurt said, smiling. He leaned in, bracing himself while Sam stood still so that Kurt could make the first move. Kurt pressed his lips on Sam’s and kissed him while Sam kissed back. This time Kurt slid his tongue into Sam’s mouth and deepened the kiss. He had to admit it felt much better to him, being in the lead. He put his hand on Sam’s face just like Karofsky and Blaine had done to him before pulling away from Sam, both of them breathing heavily.
“That was nice,” Sam said. “I’ve wanted to do that for a while. But how do you feel?”
“I feel good,” Kurt smiled. “I feel really good. Thank you for you know, letting me,”
“You're welcome,” Sam said, smiling back. “Whatya say we get out of here? Make Finn get a ride from Puck and go home,”
“I’d like that,” Kurt said, standing up with Sam and holding his hand. Together the two boys walked down the stairs and down the block out of sight from Rachel’s house where they hadn’t noticed that half of the party had been watching them.
“What the fuck was that?” Puck asked, still slurring, even more drunk than before. “Sam gets a kiss willingly but I don’t?”
“Sam loves Kurt you idiot,” Finn told him. “I could tell this whole time,”
“So you knew Sam was gay and you didn’t tell us?” Artie asked him.
“I already learned my lesson about outing people,” Finn shrugged. “Kurt wouldn’t talk to me for a week after what happened with Santana,”
“They’re cute,” Sebastian admitted.
“I was better,” Blaine pouted.
“Sure you were Blainers,” Santana teased him. “You two better watch out,” She added, talking to Rachel and Finn, “They might just take away your power couple status,”
Rachel gasped as the rest of the group laughed before returning back to the party.
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aion-rsa · 3 years ago
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How Malignant’s Monster Calls Back to Stephen King
https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
This Malignant article contains spoilers.
Malignant has a twist so wild you need to see it to believe it. Seriously, stop reading right now if you have even the faintest interest in watching James Wan‘s latest horror offering. You really don’t want to spoil this for yourself. Sure, you’ll either really love or absolutely hate the movie’s batshit third act, but the experience of watching the twist for the first time is worth the price of admission.
If you have watched the movie, maybe you left as astonished as I did. After all, the first two thirds of the movie play like a standard giallo-inspired slasher film before things go completely off the rails. You might say that some of the clues were there all along — indeed they are, maybe you saw this coming from a mile away — but when you thought you’d put it all together, did you really expect Wan to go through with something so ridiculous? I certainly said, “No, that can’t be it” to myself midway through the movie when the clues started adding up. It’s a new direction for Wan to be sure…
But Wan’s first trip into a new sub-genre of horror isn’t necessarily without outside influence. There’s a bit of David Cronenberg mixed with hints of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but for the most obvious inspiration you have to look to the King of Horror himself.
Before we talk about Stephen King, you might be wondering what the hell was going on with Gabriel in the first place.
Gabriel Origin Explained
Safari Riot’s cover of the classic Pixies song “Where Is My Mind” seems so out of place when it first blasts through a scene in the movie, an over-the-top accompaniment to what seems like your standard slasher flick, but it’s actually incredibly appropriate — not just for the massive tone shift but the plot itself. (“Where Is My Mind” is also the iconic tune that accompanies the final scene of Fight Club, another tale of split personalities.) Madison’s (Annabelle Wallis) mind has been playing tricks on her (and the audience) the entire time. She thinks her creepy childhood imaginary friend Gabriel has somehow taken corporeal form and started murdering everyone who had a hand in “separating” him from her. But little does Madison know that the separation was much more literal than her simply forgetting a figment of her imagination when her baby sister Syndey (Maddie Hasson) was born.
It’s Sydney who discovers the truth when she goes back to the institution where Madison spent her early childhood before being adopted by their mother Jeanne (Susanna Thompson). In the basement of the abandoned Simion Research Hospital, Sydney finds the harrowing tapes that reveal Madison’s past with her “imaginary friend.”
Madison was born Emily May to a 15-year-old girl named Serena (Jean Louise Kelly as an adult, Madison Wolfe as a teen) who is forced to give her away to the institution by her mother due to Emily’s…medical condition. In a stunningly gruesome sequence of body horror, we learn that Emily was born with a parasitic twin attached to her head and spinal cord, which allows it to control her movements and thoughts. The doctors at Simion at first diagnose Gabriel as a “massive teratoma,” a malignant tumor that can grow with fully developed organs and tissue, but as we see in the movie’s opening sequence, they soon learn that this is something much worse and decide to cut him out off of Emily for good.
But they can’t get rid of Gabriel completely. Because the siblings attached at the brain, the doctors are forced to remove as much of Gabriel as they can, hiding what’s left inside her skull. Of course that means that Gabriel never truly goes away. He continues to speak to Emily, now Madison, from inside her head, at one point almost convincing her to kill Jeanne while pregnant with Sydney.
While Madison eventually forgets her “imaginary friend” as an adult, Gabriel returns after Madison’s piece of shit husband Derek (Jake Abel) brutally slams her head against a wall during an altercation. (Let’s just say I’m glad he’s dead.) The injury reawakens what’s left of Gabriel, who can reemerge through her head wound to control and contort Madison’s body and go on his killing spree. Madison experiences these murders as visions, as she watches her sibling slash his way through all the doctors that tried to destroy him as well as the mother who gave him away in the first place. Madison’s only able to stop him after he’s already massacred a police station full of cops and prisoners and made his way to the hospital to kill Sydney and Serena. Using the mental link she has with Gabriel, Madison manages to lock her sibling away, promising that next time he reemerges, she’ll “be ready for him,” setting up an inevitable sequel and a new horror franchise for Wan.
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Gabriel and the Dark Half
Constant Readers will undoubtedly spend the weekend pointing out that Gabriel’s plot to control his sister in order to go on a murder spree is very reminiscent of one of Stephen King’s most famous books and movies, The Dark Half. The book and the movie directed by the late, great George A. Romero tells the story of Thad Beaumont (played by Timothy Hutton in the film), a writer of literary fiction in a bit of a slump by day. But he has a far more successful career by night as the author of dark crime novels under the pen name “George Stark.” Yet, the success of his Stark books feels like a curse to Thad, who is driven to heavy drinking and other vices when “the spell” of Stark’s prose. Now, a recovering alcoholic, Thad wishes to leave Stark behind and just write the literary fiction his agent and editor deem “boring.”
When the truth about Thad’s pen name comes out, the writer sees the perfect way to bury his career as George Stark once and for all — by throwing his pseudonym an actual funeral at the local cemetery. But Mr. Stark doesn’t like that very much. Thad’s pen name inexplicably “rises from the grave” to kill everyone he blames for his death — Thad’s editor, agent, and more.
You’re probably thinking it was Thad all along, but this is more than just another case of split personalities. Like in Wan’s latest, Stark was once actually very real, the sibling Thad absorbed in utero…except for a couple of teeth and an eye living inside of Thad’s brain. The “tumor” is removed from Thad’s head as a child, but he’s somehow unknowingly kept the spirit of his sibling alive through the books he writers, undoubtedly under Stark’s dark influence. It’s the kind of gory, supernatural twist King is best known for, and Wan sets out to celebrate the book with style. Mind you, this obviously isn’t a direct adaptation of King’s work but more like a spiritual successor to the book that pushes the plot much further into the ridiculous than even the writer did in 1989. Leave it to Wan to dream up an action sequence where a backwards (literally), contorting serial killer stabs his way through a building full of people to the sound of shredding guitars.
Even if you think Malignant‘s third act twist is an absolute mess, I’d argue it’s at least an interesting mess, a daring experiment in a corner of the horror genre we’ve not seen enough of in the past few years. Will this experiment lead to a new movement in body horror movies just as Saw for better or worse inspired years of “torture porn” movies and The Conjuring brought us the horror expanded universe? That remains to be seen. At the very least, Malignant is the kind of movie you’ll want to debate about with your friends as you exit the theater, even if it’s just to say you absolutely hated the twist. Aren’t you at least glad you saw it for yourself? The twist just isn’t as good on paper.
Malignant is out now in theaters and streaming on HBO Max.
The post How Malignant’s Monster Calls Back to Stephen King appeared first on Den of Geek.
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unfinishedsentenc99 · 4 years ago
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I played a text-based adventure game on the dark web. I can't undo the things I did.
I spend a lot of time on reddit. I’m sure you do, too. I’m on a lot of video game subs, and in particular ones about text-based games. I’m talking games like *Zork*. I wasn’t alive when *Zork* came out, but I got really into it in high school. When I made it to college, I took an even deeper dive, playing all the sequels, all the knock-offs, and every shitty game that people had cobbled together and released online. I had to refocus a bit, adding work on top of college courses so I could afford my shoebox apartment, but eventually I came across a post called “Apartment Complex.”
Not a super promising name.
But I was bored, and it was free, and the fact that it was hosted on some weird site that I couldn’t access from regular browsers appealed to me. It added an element of mystery. So I opened a Tor browser, entered the link, and got to a profile creation page. Basic stuff: username, preferred resolution, etc. It didn’t ask for any personal info, so I kept going.
The screen went blank, then a text box opened up.
“Welcome to Apartment Complex! You have been assigned your very own apartment building to run. But this isn’t any apartment building, because the tenants are going to be experiencing some pretty scary ordeals. You get to decide what happens next. Will your tenants survive? Will you accidentally butcher them all? The power is in your hands! Are you ready? \[Y\]/\[N\]”
*Why not,* I figured. I typed in a Y. More text appeared.
“Excellent. We’ll start you off with an easy management level. You have six tenants, numbered 1-6. None of them know each other well. Enter a number to learn more about a tenant and begin to make decisions.”
I grabbed a 6-sided die off my desk and rolled it.
Three.
“3,” I typed.
“Intriguing choice! The tenant in apartment 3 is Cherie. She’s 19 and a sophomore in college. All her friends know her to be outgoing and flirty, and she brings new guys back to her apartment multiple times a week. She doesn’t want a commitment. She enjoys sex, but mostly she just likes not being alone. It’s possible it’s related to how she was repeatedly abandoned by foster parents. Tonight, she brought home a young man named Thad. She plans to have sex with Thad, and he will pressure her not to use a condom. She will say yes because she doesn’t want to scare him off. But you can help her out! Should tonight be the night she stands up to Thad and tells him she won’t sleep with him without protection at the risk of spending the night alone? \[Y\]/\[N\]”
I didn’t realize this game would be so...domestic soap opera? *Whatever,* I thought, *let’s see how this plays out.*
“Y,” I typed.
“Intriguing choice! Thad and Cherie start to get hot and heavy. When they are naked on her couch, Thad starts to try penetrating her, but Cherie stops him and says he needs to use a condom. Thad complains that it doesn’t feel as good. Cherie tells him that it’s more important that both of them are protected from STDs. She’s feeling a little tense. Thad calls her a whore and a tease and throws his clothes back on. Cherie cries as Thad goes to storm out. Unfortunately, Cherie’s door won’t open. Thad checks, and the door isn’t locked, but it refuses to open. Furious, Thad storms back to where Cherie is still laying naked on the couch, crying, and begins to scream at her. Would you like to continue making decisions for Cherie, or try another tenant? \[1\] for Cherie, \[2\] for new tenant.”
This game was weird and pretty retro, but I also found myself pretty intrigued by Cherie and Thad’s story. The clunky stories in these games had a certain charm that made them very engaging. Fuck it, lets keep going.
“1,” I typed.
“Intriguing choice! Thad continues to scream at Cherie, who can’t stop crying. She’s afraid he might hit her. Thad hasn’t decided if he will or not, but plans to let his anger and lack of concern for Cherie as a human being guide his behavior. If things continue as they are, Thad will most likely beat Cherie to the point she will need to be rushed to the emergency room. Should Thad be stopped? \[Y\]/\[N\]”
“Fuck,” I mumbled out loud to myself. “This got intense.”
“Y,” I typed.
“Intriguing choice! A ceiling tile falls off. The edge cuts across Thad’s jugular. Blood gushes everywhere. He is dead in seconds.”
“What the fuck,” I said to myself. “This game is whack.” The text continued to appear.
“Cherie is horrified. Much of the blood sprayed all over her. She’s so scared, she starts to shut down. Cherie won’t be taking any more actions for a while. Choose a tenant: \[1\], \[2\], \[4\], \[5\], \[6\]”
*Damn,* I thought. *Looks like I’m not going to finish this game with a decent score. Keep plugging away though…*
I rolled the die again. Five. I typed it in.
“Intriguing choice! The tenant in apartment 5 is Clyde. He is 35 and works at the local First State Bank. His hobbies include snowboarding, tennis, recreational murder, ‘90s sitcoms, and fishing. He’s home alone tonight after his girlfriend, Alicia, texted him and told him she was leaving him for his brother. He bought a gallon of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, and is working his way through that and the third season of *Frasier*. He feels the itch to strangle someone. It’s been a while, and he’s trying to kick the habit, but the deep well of emotion seems to be so deep that ice cream alone can’t fill it. He’s hoping to quench the urge with a tv binge, but just as he’s settling in, he starts to smell gas. Should he investigate? \[Y\]/\[N\]”
Not investigating would be boring, so of course I typed in a Y.
“Intriguing choice! Clyde gets off the couch and follows his nose to the kitchen, where a heavy propane smell is blasting out of one of the burners. He’s familiar enough with gas leaks to know that he’s one spark away from Clyde flambé. Should Clyde leave, or keep sucking up the fumes? \[1\] Clyde leaves or \[2\] Clyde stays.”
*Seems weird to release the murdered,* I thought, *but it would be boring to just gas him to death*.
I type a 1.
“Intriguing choice! Clyde exits his apartment and heads down the stairs to the front door. When he makes it to the floor below his, he sees that the the stairs are blocked by fallen ceiling tiles. There are stairs on the opposite side of the floor. On the way, he would pass two other apartments, which would likely have phones to call the fire department to handle the gas leak. Should he stop at the first apartment \[1\], the second apartment \[2\], or take the stairs \[3\]”
“1,” I typed.
“Intriguing choice!” That was it. No more text.
“What the hell…” I said under my breath. And then there was a knock on my door.
I froze.
“Hey, anyone home?” a voice called from the other side of my door. “My name’s Clyde, I live on the floor above you. My phone isn’t working and my apartment smells like gas. Can I borrow your phone?”
I sat as still as I could, making no sound.
“Seriously, it’s an emergency. I’m pretty sure I heard some noise in there. I need help!”
On my screen, I saw more text pop up.
“Should Clyde keep trying the first apartment \[1\], try the next apartment \[2\], or take the stairs on the far end of the floor \[3\]”
As gently as I could, I pressed 2. The clack of the key sounded like a gunshot in my head.
“Whatever, asshole. I know you’re home. I hope you enjoy being a piece of shit,” Clyde said. Then I heard his footsteps go down the hall. The apartment building I’m in is new and pretty well insulated, but I could faintly hear knocking on the apartment down the hall from me. I knew a college girl lived there. Hopefully she isn’t home.
Wait.
College girl?
No, it couldn’t be.
Text started filling up my screen again.
“Clyde went to the next apartment and knocked on the door. He heard sobbing from inside. When the tenant inside didn’t open the door, he tried the knob. It turned, but the door wouldn’t budge. It looked like it was misaligned, and with the heat wave, the wood had swollen and jammed the door in place.”
Suddenly, I heard a smash from outside. I tore my eyes to look at my front door, but it was still solidly shut. The sound had come from down the hall. I looked back at my screen.
“Clyde used his shoulder to slam the door, and it popped open. He stepped in, calling to whoever was in the apartment. Walking further in, he saw a shocking sight: a man on the ground, his neck slashed open. A ceiling tile on the ground next to him. On the couch, a completely naked young woman. And, covering everything, a massive splatter of blood. Clyde grinned. Are you going to help Cherie \[leave your apartment and go to hers\] or do nothing while Clyde murders her \[1\]”
This was so messed up. I couldn’t just let someone muder my neighbor, even if I barely knew her. But I was terrified. I got up, ran to my kitchen, grabbed the biggest knife I could find, then went to my door. I took three deep breaths to steady myself, then I unlocked the door, threw it open, and ran out into the hall. I looked over to where the other apartment was, and I could see where the door had been broken in. I ran as quietly as I could over there, and when I reached the door, stopped short and stuck my head around the door frame to see what was going on.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t see what was happening from where I was. I crept in as stealthily as I could. The first thing that hit me was the bitter stench of blood. Then I got close enough to see what was happening. Cherie was on her back on the couch, Clyde leaning over her with his hands around her throat. She was scratching at him, but the blood made everything slick and it looked like her nails were sliding around more than doing damage.
I ran up to them and drove my knife straight into Clyde’s back. He roared and whirled around.
“You bastard,” he yelled, and dove at me, tackling me to the ground. He started pummeling me with his fists. There was little I could do to stop him. With each blow, I felt myself getting weaker, my vision going darker.
And then Clyde screamed.
I focused as best I could. Above Clyde, Cherie was raising the knife for another blow. She stabbed Clyde over and over until he collapsed on top of me, and then she stabbed him some more. I screamed at her to stop, to let me up, and eventually I broke through her terror. She helped me push his body off.
I threw a blanket around Cherie and then called the cops. We spent a lot of time going over our stories with them. I left out the dark web stuff because I didn’t want to get in trouble. Finally, the cops left. Cherie went to go stay with her parents and I went back to my apartment.
When I got back, words were flashing on my screen.
“Remember: Everything that happened tonight was your choice.”
And below that:
“We hope you play Apartment Complex again!”
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fire-fira · 5 years ago
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Submitted by @getcreative19
Sorry if this comes out of the blue, but I need to rant to someone about how they did our boy Jaime in the 2003 Teen Titans run dirty. Geoff writes him as a completely different character to force this bullshit, overused tropey teeny drama onto him because that is the tone he chose for this shitty comic. In retrospect, his run has a lot of sexist, ableist and abuse-apologetic themes, and this is one of them. I mean just look at this crap.
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
Ah yes, Mister "My mother raised me not to stare" in person. Despite him being described as a hero, he is a vile, despicable person in this. We see him starring at and contemplating to cheat with another girl and not giving a damn about that clearly resulting in hurting his girlfriend's feelings. He could have told Lorena to stop flirting with him instead of entertaining her bullshit. In the first picture he's trying to stop Tracy from joining the Titans so he can continue to gawk at another girl's ass without getting caught. He's a piece of shit in this and we are supposed to root for him and sympathise with his actions.
And don't think I'd let Lorena off the hook for flirting with Jaime despite the fact that he was visibly appalled by her advances (though that might have just been because his girlfriend was present.) She knows that he has a girlfriend, but she doesn't care one bit about that. She couldn't care less about another girl's feelings as long as she gets to satisfy her own selfish wishes. In the issue, Lorena is a complete and utter bitch to Tracy simply because she can't have what she has. Oh, and don't think Jaime would actually defend her because he is doesn't want to mess things up if he decides that he wants to knock Lorena up in the future.
This is not what a good person does, and the fact that Geoff is trying to paint them as good guys is really telling about his own morals.
This is not what a healthy relationship looks like and it disgusts me to no end that Geoff is trying to convey the message that "hey, teenagers in relationships are just callous, cheating, manipulative bastards, nothing we can do :)"
Contemplating to cheat makes you an asshole, not a 'normal guy in relationship.'
God, I could write an entire 300 page essay on why Teen Titans 2003 sucks and is a mysogynistic, outdated, full of bad morals and ideas piece of garbage. Especially in regards to Bart and Thad, oh my god, I'm so sorry for them and what ableist messages Geoff told through them.
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chocoholicannanymous · 5 years ago
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If the Spit Hits the Fan (Glee) pt VIII
Follows pt I, pt II, pt III, pt IV, pt V, part VI. and pt VII.
Readjusting to life at Dalton is a lot easier than Kurt had feared. It helps that he isn't scared witless this time, of course. It also helps that Blaine isn't there to monopolize his time – which, in hindsight, had been the root of a lot of Kurt's isolation. Now he's got the Warblers for real, and Sebastian. He's also got a much better understanding of what it'll take to keep on top of academics, and how much he can allow himself to relax. He hadn't known that last time.
(There's a nagging thought that Blaine must have known, yet said nothing, that refuses to leave his brain. It's not a pleasant one.)
Another difference is that this time Kurt's not looking to return to McKinley. Last time he'd wasted valuable time and energy trying to come up with a way to return, and daydreaming about being back. This time's different. He chose Dalton this time, and he's staying no matter what.
Also, things being what they are he's not spending large chunks of his time with Mercedes and Rachel. From what Finn reports Rachel is furious – that Kurt's left, that he's not getting punished for the election and that he's left them another person down for Sectionals. Kurt's okay with that, seeing as she hadn't exactly been a great friend before he left. As for her rantings, well. If she spreads the cheating rumors too far Kurt'll deal with it – or his dad will – and the rest is easy to ignore.
He does miss Mercedes, but at the same time he's not willing to bend enough to fix things between them. Not this time.
She didn't believe in him.
It's that simple. He was on the verge of suspension, and Mercedes didn't believe in him. She wasn't even enough of a friend to pretend she did in public. Adding her behavior over Blaine's disappearance and West Side Story.... It's up to her to make the first move, and there's nothing guaranteeing their friendship can be salvaged in the end.
So instead of spending time and energy on the mess that is the New Directions – because even with the split that's who they are – Kurt throws himself into making the most of his time at Dalton.
“I'm sorry we can't give you a solo.”
Kurt stares at Sebastian. A solo? Where did that come from? Because honestly, Kurt hadn't expect one, nor had he entirely decided if he should audition for one or not.
“We talked about it and we all know you could use it, and none of us is applying to performing arts' schools. It's simply too close to Sectionals for us to rework our setlist. Not if we want to go on to Regionals. If we do though, then we've agreed that you get a solo.”
There's a hint of pink on Sebastian's cheeks, but Kurt doesn't have the energy to try and analyze that now. It's probably Sebastian's way of apologizing or something.
“Auditions?”
“Right. I guess that this is when I tell you that the Warblers have changed how things are run. Used to be someone auditioned, and then the council decided. Only everyone knew that auditions pretty much were a sham. David and Thad admitted as much themselves, once the others started pushing. After all, it is kind of hard to pretend auditions matter when the person ending up with all the solos never even participated in the auditions in the first place.”
Which... True. Kurt just never thought the Warblers would become aware enough to see that. Maybe it's a side-effect of Wes being gone. Him and his cursed gavel...
“So now the council is gone, and everyone gets a vote on solos. And this time everyone agreed that if we make it to Regionals it was only fair to offer you a spot.”
And well, that changes things. Hopefully.
“Well, it's much appreciated either way. It's a little too late to add a Regionals solo on my NYADA application but I should be able to add it to some of the others.”
Because he is applying to other schools, regardless of what he and Rachel agreed to. Only applying to one school? Insanity. Especially a school like NYADA, which accept only 60 students per year, and only 20 of them for the concentration Kurt (and Rachel) had applied for. What if they doesn't accept him, then what? Was he supposed to stay in Lima and reapply? Spend a year or several working at the garage or in some store while his meager CV became more and more dust-covered by the minute?
No. He's applying to every school in New York that'll suit him – and a few that won't �� plus another couple elsewhere. He's even considering throwing in an application to Ohio State, since the campus in Columbus offers a couple of options when it comes to theater and music. Not that he wants to stay in Ohio, not really, but he'll go just about anywhere as long as it's not Lima.
“Well, dreaming about Regionals is all very nice, but we're not there yet. Also, there are other things to consider as well, like passing all my classes. You wouldn't be willing to lend me your notes for French for a night or two, would you? Oh, and I'm not sure I interpreted the third question for our advanced reading homework correctly, so do you think we could sit down and talk it over?”
It's easier to focus on schoolwork, on grammar and linguistics, than on the strangeness of Sebastian's actions. Much easier.
Sectionals comes and goes – and leaves a trophy behind. The Warblers celebrate, and Kurt with them. If his joy is also about the possibility of a solo... Well. Who can blame him?
That is, of course, if what Sebastian said still goes. There's no reason to think it shouldn't, not really, but Kurt remembers being burnt too well to not be cautious.
Regardless, they won't be competing against the New Directions at Regionals. The Troubletones had wiped the floor with their former teammates, and Kurt can't say he's surprised. Finn isn't either, even if it's obvious that he's unhappy about it. Oh, he tries to hide it, but. He's used to winning, loves it, and was already thinking about how to do better at Nationals than last years.
And now that's not going to happen.
“They deserved it, I don't care what anyone” read Rachel “thinks. I know how much they've been rehearsing.”
And the New Directions, true to form, hadn't. Or so Kurt supposes. After all, they hadn't had a setlist when he left, and Finn hasn't complained about suddenly ending up with a ton of extra rehearsals.
“Finn? I know they are good, but I also know you guys are. And it's okay if you're not happy about losing, even to them. It sucks to lose something you really want and losing to your friends doesn't make it easier. Not at first at least.”
“Experience talking, huh?”
“Mmmmmmm.”
Kurt still remembers how it'd hurt to lose to his friends, and not even going back to them had made it feel better. He'd gone to Nationals feeling that he didn't deserve it, and knowing that Mr Schue thought the same.
“You know what really sucks about all of this? We had a suggestion for a setlist that would have given us the win. Michael Jackson songs, solos for everyone... I think it would have been awesome.”
“Let me guess, Rachel flipped.”
It's not even a question, because obviously she would have. Allowing everyone solos? No matter how small, that would have meant less time in the spotlight for her. Just as it wouldn't have mattered how great the suggested songs were, because Michael Jackson isn't something Rachel would be able to do well.
And of course Mr Schue would have folded faster than wet cardboard once she started complaining, neither of them caring that by catering to Rachel's demands they weakened the group.
“Oh yeah. And now she's on a 'woe is me because NYADA' tear, and it's driving me insane. Well, everyone. I'm pretty sure Tina's on the verge of punching her. Plus, she... Anyway, Glee sucks now.”
“She's blaming me, isn't she? For leaving, and for supposedly making Blaine leave.”
It makes sense, in a totally-not-unless-you're-Rachel-Berry way, and it's nothing less than Kurt's been expecting if he's honest. Because there's no way Rachel would ever lose gracefully, just as there's no way she'd accept the rightful blame for having messed up.
“You guessed that, huh? Yeah, sorry. I don't know what's gotten into her, I swear.”
“She's being the worst version of herself. I knew I made myself a target by leaving, I just didn't care. Then again I already was one, so I guess that's 'bigger' target. And I can't imagine she took it any better knowing that the Warblers won our Sectionals.”
Kurt can practically hear Finn wince over the phone, which is never an encouraging thing – and yet, much too frequent with Rachel Berry in the picture.
“I...might have told her that I wouldn't talk to her about it, and walked out the door when she did it anyway?”
Kurt removes the phone from his ear, stares at it, shakes it to see if anything is broken inside, stares at it again and then replaces it.
“I'm sorry, you what? Are you telling me you finally located your balls when it comes to a girl?”
And then it's Kurt's time to audibly wince, because while true that's also extremely rude – and crude – and Finn doesn't deserve it. Not even though it's true.
“I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that.”
“Nah, it's nothing I don't deserve. I just, I've had it okay? I love Rachel, I do, but sometimes I'm not so sure I like her. And the past few weeks have been worse than usual. When we got back together it was supposed to be for this year, since she's going to New York after graduation. Which I figured I could get around, you know? Part of me wants to ask her to marry me and commit to going to New York with her. Another part figured it'll never work since she can't respect anything or anyone outside of herself and her dreams.
“She only changed her mind about sex because Artie told her she wasn't credible onstage otherwise, and she didn't even tell me at first. Then she's been an absolute bitch about everything with you. So let's say I change her mind and we get married. What else will she do?
“I'm not sure about being with her at all anymore, and it's not breaking my heart like it should.”
Hearing that? Kind of breaks Kurt's heart though. Once upon a time he'd have been ecstatic to hear something like this from Finn. Now he's grown beyond that, and all he wants for Finn is happiness. (That he's not sure Rachel can provide that isn't really the point. Up until now Finn has believed it, and that's the only thing that matters.)
“I'm sorry. Do you... I'll be home Friday evening. Want me to bring some cookies and watch a movie, or do you have plans?”
“Peanut butter chocolate chips? Plus, Captain America comes out on DVD this week, and I know you like Chris Evans.”
“I really really do.”
They both laugh, and if Finn's is a bit strained neither of them are going to admit it. What's important here is that regardless of everything they've got each other.
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kurtbastian-land · 6 years ago
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I Would
Summary: It was another typical day with the Warblers. Blaine has found a new crush and decides the most appropriate way to confess to him is through a song. Who cares if they’ve only met and talked once? It’s not like his soulmate would have a boyfriend... right?
“He is just amazing, you guys. He’s funny, beautiful and his voice. You should hear his voice. I swear, it’s like angels talking to me.”
Sebastian raised an eyebrow at the gushing Blaine Anderson was making as he entered the music room for the usual Warbler’s practice. It wasn’t that he has anything against Anderson. His family was as rich as he was, and Sebastian could see the appeal the latter have on some of the guys in school. Hell, even he tried to tap that when he first transferred but then he realises that Blaine Anderson was... well... kinda bland. Kinda like... flour. Not that he has anything against flour either. Flour is pretty useful, making the most delicious pastries that Sebastian grew up eating whereas Blaine makes funny faces and screeches whenever he tries to put emotions to songs.
“Aww, look, the excited puppy looks as though he’s going to wet himself over a boy,” Sebastian cooed as he took his usual spot on the couch, “the last time I checked, that Jeremy dude, or whatever his name was from the GAP attack incident, wasn’t that remotely breathtaking.”
“It’s Jeremiah, Seb,” Blaine corrected the latter, “and he’s nothing like Jeremiah. I would introduce you to him but he’s too good for you. And I don’t want you trying to get him into bed for just a night.”
“You’ve talked to him once,” Sebastian pointed out because someone had to and it’s clearly not Blaine’s fanboys. The amount of times Blaine falls for a guy is getting close to ridiculous.
“Once is enough to know if you’re someone’s soulmate.”
Rolling his eyes at the haughtiness tone Blaine decided to take upon, Sebastian resisted the urge to gag and leaned back into the sofa, placing his legs on the coffee table. It was no secret that Sebastian loves to flaunt his promiscuity to others, an image he held up proudly, like a badge of honour even if they weren’t quite as true as they were in the beginning. Fishing out his phone from his slacks, a small smile made its way on his face as he opened up his latest text.
Quickly typing a response, Sebastian threw a glance at Blaine who was still avidly talking about his new crush and how it was so obvious that the latter was into him. Sometimes, he wonders what is it like to be Blaine. To be so wonderfully naive, to have his head so stuck up in his own ass. Must be terribly... awful, Sebastian decided. Well, one thing’s for sure, he can’t wait to see the mess of this next serenade is going to be.
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“Okay guys, he’s over there. With his group of friends,” Blaine nudged his head towards the direction of the object of his interest.
The Warblers were standing at the entrance of The Lima Bean, in their trademark blazers, taking a quick peek at a group of high schooler happily chatting in the coffee shop, trying to figure who has caught their leader’s heart after one meet up.
“Can we just get this over and done with,” Sebastian complained as he pocketed his phone, clearly displaying no interest in Blaine’s boy, “position Warblers.”
On command, the Warblers shifted into their assigned position, with Blaine front and centre, as always, regardless of the occasion. The moment Blaine opens the door, the Warblers at the back began to harmonize a tune that has been familiarised over the past week.
Lately I found myself thinking
Been dreaming about you a lot
And up in my head I'm your boyfriend
But that's one thing you've already got
The Warblers entered the establishment uniformly, quickly shifting to wear places could fit them. Clearly, Blaine didn’t take into consideration the tables and chairs that would be present during their performance.
Sebastian squinted slightly, as he tried to figure out who is Blaine exactly singing to amongst the group of students that were sitting around the table. Obviously the blonde and the short brunette were out of the question, because, duh, girls. So what was only left in the group was a giant of a teen, another blondie with lips you can see from a mile away and... Kurt?
He drives to school every morning
While I walk alone in the rain
He'd kill me without any warning
If he took a look in my brain
Oh no no no. The hobbit wouldn’t. He wouldn’t be so fucking stupid to...
Sebastian watched as Blaine broke away from the Warblers, walking straight to the dumbfounded Kurt, eyes wide open, mouth agape, face turning a shade of red Sebastian have yet made Kurt turn to. And honestly, it’s pissing him off a little that he wasn’t going to be the first one to do so. That wasn’t the only thing pissing him off. His eyes started to twitch as Blaine got closer to his target.
Would he say he's in L-O-V-E
Well if it was me then I would, I would
Would he hold you when you're feeling low
Baby you should know that I would
Would he say he's in L-O-V-E
Well if it was me then I would, I would
Would he hold you when you're feeling low
Baby you should know that I would
I would
“Okay, hobbit!” Sebastian barked when Blaine grabbed Kurt’s hand, pulling him up to his feet, “I normally wouldn’t care who you make us serenade to, because it’ll always end up to you embarrassing yourself but you singing to my boyfriend is where I’m drawing the line.”
The Warblers watched in stunned silence as Sebastian took large strides away from the group, shoving Blaine aside, causing the latter to stumble slightly as he placed his arm around Kurt’s waist, pulling him close. Whispers and murmurings could be heard almost immediately at the sudden turn of events.
“Looks like inappropriate Blaine struck again.”
“Does he have like a checklist to complete or something? First outing a guy, now serenading to someone unavailable. What’s next? Singing to a straight guy?”
Blaine immediately flushed when the Warblers started chattering behind him. “I.... but...” Blaine stuttered at the sudden turn of events
Clenching his jaw, he pointed accusingly at Sebastian who was currently glaring at him. “You knew about this the whole time and you didn’t think to tell me that you’re dating Kurt?”
“You didn’t even mention his name, you idiot,” Sebastian snapped at the latter.
“I pointed at him when we were outside!”
“Have you ever seen me giving a fuck about who’s your latest crush?”
Eyes were constantly moving back and forth as Blaine and Sebastian continued to argue, no one willing to give in over the latest mess.
“What would Kurt ever see in a manwhore like you,” Blaine sneered, tilting his chin upwards to make up for the lack of height he has against the latter.
“That’s enough Blaine,” Kurt cut in sharply, eyes throwing daggers at the boy who decided it was appropriate to suddenly start serenading to him in a public establishment, with no warning whatsoever and still had the decency to try and put the blame on Sebastian.
“I don’t know you. I’ve met you once, on pure accident because you looked like a sad puppy who got kicked in the stomach multiple time.”
“But...”
“I’ve met you once and I did not lead you on or showed any signs in being interested. I’ve. Met. You. Once.” Kurt emphasised, stressing each word, hoping that it’ll get through Blaine’s apparent thick skull that is currently being protected by an equally thick gelled down hair, “and quite frankly, I don’t want to want to be friends with you if you happen to think slut-shaming my boyfriend is appropriate.
Smiling to himself, Sebastian couldn’t resist placing a quick kiss on Kurt’s temple before quickly sticking out his tongue at Blaine. “Yea hobbit, I would. So you can scurry your little ass away and take the corny ass song with you.”
Blaine opened and closed his mouth, trying to figure out the words to say to somehow make himself look better. But when he couldn’t, Blaine snapped his mouth shut and turned around to storm off. The Warblers started at each other awkwardly, not knowing what to do or say, their minds trying so desperately to wrap around the most pressing news at the moment.
Sebastian Smythe, Dalton’s residential playboy, has a boyfriend. A serious boyfriend.
Thad awkwardly cleared his throat, nodding in Sebastian’s direction. “I’ll take it that you’re staying here while the rest of the Warblers take their leave?”
Sebastian grinned and gave a little wave to send them off. Once they were out of sight, Sebastian turned to Kurt, eyebrow raised, “so Blaine was the self-absorbed guy you were talking about?”
“So the serenade you’ve been preparing this past week was for me, led by Blaine?” Kurt shoots back, a teasing glint in his eye.
Before Sebastian could reply, he noticed Kurt’s group of friends staring at them wide-eyed, especially the brunette with bangs and one ugly as hell animal sweater. Sebastian raised an eyebrow and gave a small wave. That seemed to wake the girl in some kind of trance as she stood up, chair screeching against the marble floor.
Kurt quickly turned around and noticed Rachel standing, finger pointing accusingly to his boyfriend. “Oh no,” he muttered under his breath, “please do-“
“SPYYY!” Rachel screeched, causing the other patrons of the coffee shop who went back to minding their business, quickly turned to see what kind of commotion these high schoolers are making now.
“Friends of yours babe?” Sebastian winced at shrillness of her voice.
Kurt nodded his head begrudgingly as he buried his face into the crook of Sebastian’s neck.
“Do you mind if we could-“
“No Bas, I am not going to switch Rachel for Blaine.”
“Damn it.”
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sylvesterbarzey · 4 years ago
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The revolution has always been in the hands of the young. The young always inherit the revolution."
~Huey P. Newton
My Pops was in the Army. I guess that's something to be proud of, but Ma didn't like it much. He went on the weekends but there was always that chance he might get called up. He would always say "It's a volunteer type thing, don't stress it." That kept us going for a few years, then Tayler was born. I remember it like it was yesterday, My father sat me and my brother Anthony down. I never really paid much attention to things as a kid, but I do remember Ma was crying a lot that day. Pops smiled at us and rubbed my head before he let the words out, "Dad's gotta take a trip, for a few months." Anthony leaned forward, he wanted to know what was going on, he felt something was going on. I knew and I cried. I remember four moments when my life changed:
The first was my father telling us he was deploying.
The second was my mother telling us Pops was killed in action.
The third moment, happened 12 years later...
I acted out a lot, couldn't get the grades that Ma wanted, so I dropped out of school. She didn't like it, but it kept her from working three jobs. Whenever I came home with that check from the gym, she would take it and softly say, "I wish you didn't have to do this, Drew." I didn't mind it. The Army paid us some money but because my Pops wasn't up to date on his paperwork, half of it went to my grandma. I've never seen the woman and she didn't come to Pops' funeral.
The money helped a little, but three boys is a lot to pay for, it didn't last. Like I said, I don't mind it. I'm always working out at the Gym anyway, so my trainer got me a job. I clean the ring and the lockers, which doesn't pay much but I don't have to pay for lessons. I was leaving the gym when I heard it, "You're that fighter, right?" Her voice was sweet, with a body that was even sweeter, but if I had the power to tell the future, I'd know she wasn't worth it. I don't even remember her name, to be honest.
First we were talking, and then there was a little less talking. We were in an alley behind the gym, and I had one hand up her skirt when I saw him from the corner of my eye, smiling from ear to ear. I closed my eyes and groaned, "What do you want, Tay?"
The little man laughed at me and said, "A turn if we're being honest."
"Excuse me!" My good time shouted.
I did a little smooth talking or most likely a little ass kissing to save the night and then I dragged the little man out the alley by his hoodie, "What the hell do you want Tay!"
He jumped a little, "I was seeing if you wanted to walk home together," he said.
My hand went over my face and I shook my head, "Does it look like I want to go home right now?"
Tay got on his tippy toes to look over my shoulder at the girl. Her back was pressed against the wall. Her bra was unlatched and her patience was getting thin.
"Whatever, I'm gonna tell Ma when I get home." Tay said.
I nodded, "I bet you will. Get your snitching ass home before the streetlights come on." He was down the street before the last of my words left my mouth.
"That your brother?" She asked and I nodded, "He got a mouth on him." She said softly.
I laughed as I leaned in and kissed her "Yeah, well so do I." I said.
We did our thing and I was back home around eleven. As soon as I pushed the door open, Ma was there waiting, "Where the hell you been?" She was half dressed for her shift at the hospital, I wasn't sure if that meant she was coming or going.
"Out, Mama. Damn, I can't go to work and come home every day. Can I live?" I asked. Anthony was lying on the couch, so I pushed his feet to the side almost tossing him out the seat, "Move man!" I shouted.
Anthony sat up, "Damn, why didn't you stay your big headed ass at the gym?"
I was about to toss him to the floor and choke out an apology, but then Ma closed the door slowly and asked me a question that still sends chills through me, "Drew, Where's Tay?"
I turned to look at her and then looked around, "He's not here?" I asked.
Her hands rested on her hips, "I thought he was coming home with you. He said he was gonna stop by the gym after wrestling practice," She said.
"He came by the gym, but I told him to head home," I said and my Mama came across the room so fast, I thought I was in a horror movie. That kind of speed only comes from being possessed.
Her hand slapped into the back of my head, "You let him walk alone!" she screamed.
I put my hands up trying to protect myself, "It's only a few blocks, Ma!"
We were going back and forth. Ma was panicking and screaming. I was trying to defend any sensitive area from her onslaught. She picked up the phone to call the cops when Anthony turned up the tv, Ma screamed at him to turn it down but he was in a trance. Eyes wide. Lips tightened and his finger pointing at the tv. The tears started to come before we knew fully what was happening.
There was a shooting.
The cops said he had a gun.
That was a lie...
He was gonna be 13 in a few months. He was excited about that, told me he was gonna be a man. I stared at Thad blood stained white sheet that covered his little body. They left him in the street for the world to see. Anthony knew it was him from his sneakers, they were spray painted purple, for the school colors.
I remember we kept shouting,"no!"
"That's not him-" Then there was a loud set of knocks at our door and we knew there was no more denying it. For weeks, the News said some cold stuff about the little man. He was running with a gang... the kid had wrestling gear, books and Pokémon cards in his bag. Last I checked gangbangers weren't playing with Pokeballs. Cops said he fit the description of a suspect... young and black. It was the words of two white cops against a dead little black boy. The worst thing was that photo.
The bloody white sheet over his little body, in the middle of the street. It became the logo for the case. No one would talk about the shooting without showing it. It got to a point where I couldn't even think of Tay without that popping in my head first.
I went crazy after that, I'm sure we all did. I lost my job at the Gym because I kept getting into it with the fighters. I started drinking and smoking from sunset to sunrise, and sometimes beyond that. I was going off the deep end, and it wasn't what my Ma needed, but it was what I needed. I was angry and I wanted someone to hurt, like I was hurting.
Our lawyer was pricey but he said he would do it for free. He told us we could win and then slowly his tune started changing. He said the cops would get off but we still had a good case against the city.
We didn't care about money. Money didn't buy justice. Money couldn't bring Tay back. It was nothing more than dirty green paper everyone wanted to toss at us, so we could wipe our tears and move on. We wanted justice, but I was sure the courts weren't gonna give it to us, so I went out to find my own.
I was walking up and down the street every night. I said I was looking for the right one, but I was just talking myself out of it most nights. Then after a few shots of Henny, there I was, standing behind him. He had just come out of his apartment building. He was walking toward his car with his phone glued to his ear. "Yeah, I'll be there in a few. Don't start the party without me," he said. He was happy, and I could smell the vodka coming off of him as he started to fumble with his keys.
I pulled out the gun and placed it to the back of his head, "Get on the fucking ground." I said.
His hands shot up, "What the fuck man... take it easy... you want money? Is that it? You need some cash?" he cried.
Another one trying to send me away with a few dead presidents. I pushed the gun forward till the barrel thumped him in the back of the head, "I said, get the fuck on the ground, white boy! I'm not gonna say it again!" I shouted and he quickly dropped down to the sidewalk, his face pressed to the ground. His warm tears mixed in with the cool concrete.
He wasn't a cop.
He didn't know Tay..
He didn't have anything to do with anything.
But he was white and at that moment, that was all that mattered to me.
I started stomping down on him. First his lower back. I felt my heel cave in his back. All the while he screamed, "Help me!" His ribs cracked as I slammed my steel toes into his side. He was fighting to get back to his feet or get away, but I bashed the handle of the gun into the top of his head and he dropped back to the ground. I picked my boot up again to bring it down into his skull when I felt someone grab me, pulling me back.
"Get the fuck off me!" I spun around with the gun pointed. Anthony was staring at me, "What the hell are you doing here?" I asked.
He rushed me, pushing me back into the car, "What are you doing?" he asked, then he looked down at the bloody mess that was groaning on the sidewalk. I didn't see him as a person, just a punching bag for me to release my rage onto. Anthony saw him as a person and a life sentence for his older brother. I looked down at the guy and then back at my brother who grabbed me by the collar and softly let out, "Let's get the fuck out of here, Drew." He didn't wait for me, he just took off and for a second I thought about ignoring his request and finishing up but then I looked back at the man and all I could see was that bloody white sheet and those purple shoes and like a scared little boy, I ran from it.
We were blocks away when I finally let the words out, "You following me now?" I asked.
I don't know what that did to him, but he grabbed me and tossed me into a nearby alley. I could see in his eyes he wanted to take a shot at me. He wanted to fight, but I wasn't nearly drunk enough for him to take me. I fought for a living. After Pop died, all I did was fight. It was my lifestyle. Anthony wasn't a fighter and he wasn't stupid, "What the hell were you thinking? What the fuck was that!" he shouted at me.
I attempted to walk away, but he pushed me back into the wall, "You're not gonna keep pushing up on me like that, Anthony." I said.
He shook his head, "You think this is gonna bring Tay back?" He asked.
Before I knew it I had Anthony pressed up against the wall, "Don't you fucking talk about him." I said.
Anthony stared at me, "I miss him too... I miss him so fucking bad."  He said. I watched as a tear fell from his eye and they were calling out to my own.
"I did this to him," I said it out loud, for the first time ever I said it out loud. I blamed myself, I could have helped him or they could have shot me instead. Every morning I wake up, I lie in bed wishing they did shoot me.
"It's not your fault," Anthony said as I let his feet finally hit the ground. "You didn't do this, they did." He said.
I nodded, "Yeah, and they're getting away with it."
Anthony shook his head, "No, they won't. In a few months we'll go to court and-"
I took a step back and cleared the tears from my eyes before I started laughing, "And what, Anthony! We get justice?" I shook my head laughing, "There's no justice for people like us! They don't care about us!" I shouted and kicked over a nearby trash can, the metal banging into the ground, filled up the alleyway. "You look in the mirror lately? You seen your skin color?" I shook my head as I said, "People like us, we don't get justice."
"You don't know what you're talking about," He said.
I ran up to him, till we were face to face. The smell of alcohol had to have overtaken him because it was all I could smell as I softly said, "We are gonna walk into that courtroom, with their white judge, and their white jury and watch those cops get off. That's the only thing that's gonna happen in that courtroom."
Anthony turned his head to the side and then he nodded, "So, fuck court then? Huh?" He nodded and laughed, "Let's just get fucked up and beat on some random white boys," he said.
"I'm teaching them a lesson," I said and he stopped laughing.
Anthony's hands went over his face and he took a long sigh. My little brother was trying to hold the family together these days. He was working part-time and going to school. Meeting and calling the lawyer. He was making sure Mama ate and took her pills. She wasn't in a good place these days, and he was looking out for her, and for me, "No, what you're doing is giving Mama another son to cry over. What you think is gonna happen to you if you keep this up? Your ass is gonna get locked the fuck up, or killed. Then they're gonna have your photo all over the news like Tay." I went to rush him again but he took a quick jab at me, right into my jaw. It sent me to the ground fast. I didn't see it coming, that's how Anthony was, always getting you when you weren't looking. I looked up at him and spit blood onto the ground. He put his hand out, "This shit, isn't helping anyone. Let's go home." I stared at his fingers for a moment and then I took his hand and he pulled me up.
"It's never gonna change, is it, Anthony? They're never gonna care about us." I said softly and my brother guided me through the darkness of that alleyway.
It had been a year since Tay's shooting and I was finally pulling myself together. I wasn't looking for fights in the streets anymore, I was doing my fighting in the ring now. Anthony had me beg my boss at the gym for a tryout, and he liked what he saw. Said if I worked hard maybe he would take me to the U. S tryouts. All I saw was gold in my future, Mama was doing better too. The doctor said she just had a minor break, and with the meds and counseling she was going to be okay.
Anthony was on her every day, "You take your meds Mama?" it was like his thing, he didn't say hello, it was always, "You take your meds Mama?" But I couldn't be mad at him, all this shit was happening and he still held down the family and kept his grades up. Anthony had schools chasing after him, his teachers said he was some kind of chemistry genius or something.
The boy was smart.
I knew that.
"It won't start," Ma said as her fingers tightened around the wheel of the car.
"Is the battery dead?" I asked.
She shrugged, "The hell if I know," She said and then turned her head to me, "Go check."
I looked over at Anthony in the front seat next to her, "Ma, why I gotta do it?" I asked.
She turned around slowly, "Cause I told your ass to, " She said.
I pushed open the door and made my way toward the front of the car, "Pop the hood." I shouted.
I heard back, "Don't you yell at me, boy!" I rolled my eyes and heard the metal click, I lifted the hood and laughed, "Is the battery leaking?" My Ma asked.
I shook my head walking over to the driver side. I leaned on the door and sighed, "Someone stole the battery," I thought it was funny, but the tears slowly started to build up in her eyes. She pushed the door open and I slowly stepped aside "You alright Ma?" I asked.
"I can't do this today. Not today" She said.
The officers that shot Tay were finally being tried in court today, the car was busted and the lawyer said we didn't have to be there if we didn't want to. So, we stayed home. We didn't want to see them cheering and smiling as they got off for killing my little brother. I knew it was gonna happen, it always happens. Anthony was sitting on the couch with the news on, they were covering the trial, all the reporters were camped out on the steps of the courthouse waiting to hear the verdict. "Turn that off, Mama doesn't want to deal with that right now." I said.
Anthony kept his eyes on the tv, Mama came into the room, "You heard your brother, turn that mess off. I'm sick and tired of them pulling my baby's name through the mud and-" Mama's tears were cut off by a loud blast from the tv.
The picture shook and the blonde haired reporter ran out of the shot. There was a lot of screaming and then it cut to the people in the station "What was that?" I asked.
The news anchor on the tv put his finger to his ear and nodded, "There has been some kind of explosion at the courthouse..."
I sat down next to Anthony who was leaning forward staring at the tv. Mama put her hand over her chest, "Oh my god." She said.
"You think it was over Tay's case?" I asked.
Ma put her hand over her mouth, "You think?" She replied and then the phone started to ring. We all stared at one another as the robotic melody crawled through the halls and creeped into the living room. Ma shot up and ran to the back of the apartment. I sat there dumbfounded with the glow of the tv taking me over. Then I looked over at Anthony, he sat there for a while staring into the puzzled faces of the reporters and then he softly said, "You were wrong."
"Wrong about what?" I asked.
We were in a moment that didn't require words. A moment where pure silence would be accepted and understood but here he was talking and smirking, "You said people like us don't get justice," his head turned slightly and the faint glow of the TV made his skin shine, "But we do...we just have to take it."
I remember four moments when my life changed.
You already know the first three...
The fourth was when I realized I was nothing more than a punk kid in an alley trading words with a Revolutionary.
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tweekedout · 7 years ago
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@birdieflip called it quits.
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I’m just not gay, he’d said. I can’t help who I’m attracted to. It’s not men. And it’s not you.
Had he been afraid of this happening?
Had it crossed his mind after the first year, that one day, Craig would wake up and realize he felt nothing? That this perfect thing was all in his head and the second he got attached, it would be gone.
No. No, he had allowed himself to trust in it.
You’ve got spikes man. You’e got spikes.
The death of their relationship is a supernova. Quiet, at first. An ending. But what comes after, the fighting, the things that can’t be taken back - it rocks the school, and word gets out fast. Craig Tucker is straight and Tweek Tweak needs to get over it.  Their friends tentatively take sides -- Clyde takes Craig’s because they’ve been closer for longer, and Token takes his because someone has to keep Tweek off the edge. Jimmy does his damnedest to stay neutral. The strain is palpable and the pressure is back, Tweek had forgotten what it was like to shoulder it all alone and the weight nearly buckles him.
Because even before they’d dated, even before they’d been roped into that web of feelings, Craig had been the closest thing to a best friend he’d ever had. The fallout destroys that, rots it so nothing will ever grow again and corrodes the core. He reaches out on Facebook a few months later, tentatively trying to mend the bridge. It’s a trip to the movies to catch something stupid and silly that they’d like as kids, just friends but Craig brings a girl and he knows what that means, what statement he’s making, and so he gets up and excuses himself from the theater before it even starts.
Thad Jarvis had grabbed his arm, catching the sight of tears and offering the solution in the form of a pill. He tries to argue, I don’t -- but the words died and he remembered the coffee and the twitches and everything that wasn’t ADD.
So he took the blue pill. Leaving the real world behind. Clyde, Token and Jimmy eventually fade from view - he catches glimpses of them, declines hanging out - he has work and now that he’s older his father doesn’t let him weasel out of it with play time. He’s too damn old for that. He sees Craig in the hallways, cheerleaders on his arm. Bright and confident, his flame burning brightest. Maybe he wasn’t gay, maybe he was happy now. They’re all sports stars and elementary school friendships weren’t built to last. Tweek shrugs skinny shoulders when they offer apologies, hangouts are missed, but he gets the feeling that some are more intentional than others. He’s bouncing off the walls in a way he never did before and nobody’s quite gotten over the paranoid ranting he’d done for that one history project.
( He’d been right though. )
They were happy now.
He hoped he was happy now.
Yet resentment curled in his gut. Anger, how dare he lead him on for years? How dare he, how dare he, how fucking dare he and he has to take something to get his ind off of it. Uppers, downers, whatever the hell makes his brain slow the fuck down so he can think.
He wants to talk to Craig sometimes, go back to friendship, he misses him. But then he thinks about the undercurrent to his voice. The subtle implication that he wasn’t gay because there was something wrong with it and the distance between them became an infinite chasm. Something was wrong.
Between work and school he has no free time, so it doesn’t matter. If Craig’s girlfriends want coffee he doesn’t go in with them, and he can see the girls giving him a smug little look. Like they’ve somehow won a game he’s stopped playing. But what little he does is hijacked by Stan or Kyle fr schemes for profit. They want to go to a party, and Tweek’s got an invite from one of the Raisins girls -- apparently crazy doesn’t detract from hotness and they go, it’s a mess. The night’s a blur and he knows that come morning he regrets waking up with Porsche curled up on his arm.
( She smiles in a pretty way, no offense taken when he gets to his feet. They didn’t do anything, they kissed and fell asleep, and yet somehow that feels worse, “you looked like you could use some cheering up, cutie. Did it help?”
No, he doesn’t, no it didn’t, no he’s sorry. )
It continues on like that. He parties without really partying. Goes for the sound and the noise but huddles up in a corner and eventually someone will approach, and before long it’s not just kissing. They think he’s cute and he thinks they’re company and they go to bed to not be lonely for a while, but come morning he opens his mouth and they hear the stutter or notice the tics in more detail, or heaven forbid experience the nightmares, and reluctantly move on.
It’s somewhere between May and June that he has enough of Eric Cartman’s underhanded comments and smug looks. All it takes is one snide comment
( “oh come on tweek, for a guy who gets around so much you sure are being a little bitch--” )
before Tweek has dropped his books, hauled him down by the front of his shirt, and slammed their heads together. He beats his smug face purple and blue with sharp, bony fists and gets hauled off snarling obscenities and promises to show him what he could be if pushed. Cartman’s bigger than him and several weight classes heavier and gets a few solid hits in, but his pride is more brusied than anything else.
( The school won’t press charges against him. They know Eric’s record. He’d do it again in a heartbeat, why did he ever try to do anything sober when having no inhibitions was great? )
But he sits outside the office nursing bruised knuckles and a swollen lip. Not looking up at the sound of familiar footsteps. His legs jitter against the floor and he clenches his eyes shut tightly, turning away and flips a finger up. That’s all he has to say.
“You sit on your bench, and I’ll sit on mine, and we won’t talk.”
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gleefuldarrencrissfan · 7 years ago
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Chapters: 15/? Fandom: Glee Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Blaine Anderson/Kurt Hummel Additional Tags: Competition, Reality TV, Alternate Universe, Eventual Blaine Anderson/Kurt Hummel, Blaine Anderson & Sam Evans Friendship, Kurt Hummel & Rachel Berry friendship, Duet, Slow Burn
Chapter 15- I Was Born to Be a Rock Star
  Mr. Figgins sat at his desk, his hand to his head, clearly tired of listening to the arguments that had presented to him.  Frankly, after listening to the newly red headed guy berate and threaten him for two whole hours, he agreed.  “I’m sorry, my hands are tied.   The audition episodes are set to air tomorrow because the live shows are set to air next week.  We can not delay it or we could put this whole show in jeopardy,” the middle-aged Indian man explained.  “I am very aware of the issues you are having with Mr. Smythe, but it is too late to replace a contestant now.”
“We could replace his footage with Kurt Hummel’s footage, and replace Hummel with Smythe,” Mrs. Tibbideux suggested.
“What do you think, Ms. July?” Mr. Figgins Prompted..
“Whatever,” Cassie said, laying her head down, waving her head submissively.  
“Personally, I wouldn’t mind if they both went home.  Sebastian’s voice is too nasally.  And you already know what I think about lady Hummel.  It’s like, I can sing up high and sing loooowwww.  That’s a vocal warm up.  Big whoop,” said Jesse dryly.  
Mr. Figgins shook his head.    “What do you think, Sue?”      
“I don't think Porcelin would get us better ratings than Smythe, because, let’s face it, they are both snarky, skinny, white gay kids that sing.”
“I disagree,” countered Carmen.   “They are very different.   Yes, they are both, as you say, sassy and quick-witted, but they use it in different ways. Hummel comes off as clever and feisty, whereas Smythe comes off as pretentious and rude.  Although I think fans would like Sebastian, but I think they would love Mr. Hummel.   In addition, if we are going off of pure talent here, which we should, Mr. Hummel has a more unique sound.”
“Mr. Shuester.   You’ve been there for vocal rehearsals for Sebastian and Sam.  How is that going?”  Mr. Figgins asked.  
“Sebastian is smug.  It’s hard to give him direction.  Sam is trying, and he’s doing great, but I can tell that he is frustrated, though he’s trying to hide it.” Will remarked.  “I know I’m not a judge, but I have to say that I agree with Madam Tibbideaux regarding Sebastian and Kurt.  It would solve so many problems.”
“I thought they were getting along now, since your bonding experience.”  
“It’s better, that’s true,” Will commented, “but there’s still a long way to go.  Sam is a very forgiving person, as are some of the other contestants, but there are still hard feelings toward Sebastian from several of the contestants.  Are you sure there’s no way we can do as Carmen is suggesting?”  Will asked.  
“I'm sorry, but it’s too late.  Next time, I recommend choosing the contestants more carefully. We already have everything edited and set to air.” Figgins replied.
“So will there even be footage of Hummel shown?” asked Carmen.  
“Yes, seeing that he made it so far.   It will add some drama,” Thad, the editor, remarked, “although I'm not sure we need anymore of that.”  
“So, might I suggest something?” Sue chimed in.  “Let the audition show air, and then let’s encourage the audience to give feedback on it.  Let’s get a perception about what the public thinks about Smythe and Hummel.”
“And how would we do that?  Online polls?” Mr. Figgins asked.
“Social Media,” Jesse answered immediately.  “Encourage people to tweet about their favorite contestants so far.  Better yet, allow them a chance to tweet with the contestants, and then we can see who’s treading more, and see what people actually think.  People don’t hold back on Twitter.”
“I’m not sure that’s fair,” Emma interjected.
“Oh Elmo, life isn’t fair.  I mean, that should be painstakingly obvious just in what mother nature decided to do to you, I mean with your hollow bird pelvis and neat freak tendencies, it was like mother nature set you up so you would never get a chance to reproduce.” Sue snarked.
“Sue, that was uncalled for.  Ms. Pillsbury, however unfair it may be, I think Mr. St James is right.  What do the rest of you think?” Mr. Figgins asked.
Ms. Corcoran nodded.  “I think it’s brilliant.”  Will nodded in agreement as well.
“Ooohhh, I love that idea!” Cassie said smiling.  “I’ll even volunteer to read the comments.  Jesse’s right.  People don’t hold back on social media.  They can be downright vicious.”
“Then it is decided.  We will give a verbal warning to  the stylist, and demand that they apologize to Mr. Smythe.  In addition, they must fix his hair.  Do you all agree?”   Figgins asked.  Most of the heads nodded an affirmative, except Sue’s.  “I think this meeting has concluded.  Thank you everyone for your hard work.  Sue, I need to remain for a moment.”
“The judges and the rest of the staff exited the Executive’s office as Sue paced back and forth.
“Sue, you know something you are not saying,” Figgins accused.
“Well of course I do.  I know a lot more than I’m saying.  I know a lot more than you do, but that’s not new.  You’re pretty clueless.”
“Now, Sue, I’m not clueless enough that I don’t realize that Sebastian is only here because you want him to be.  I heard you argue his case and sidestep the issue entirely.  Why do you want him here?”
“Ratings, of course,” Sue answered quickly.  “He has what this show needs.”
“Talent?” Figgins guessed.
“Oh no, Figgy.  Lots of kids have talent.  He has a go getter attitude.  He wants to win, and he will stop at nothing to get it.  He reminds me of a young, gay version of one Sue Sylvester.”
“What are you up to, Sue?  This show is going to be successful.  The projections are good.”
“I don’t want it to just be good.  It has to be great.  It’s going to live up to the network’s name.  It’s going to be number one.”
“I asked Wesley Montgomery, in legal to come in here with me just in case Sebastian follows through with his threat to sue.  So what happened exactly?  David asked.  “Sebastian is really upset about his hair.”  
“It was a big mistake,” Elliott explained.  “I took over Sebastian’s make-over when he got hostile toward Unique, but he made rude comments to her on Friday too.  I was trying to help her out.  He was actually pretty rude.”
“I see that ‘highlights’ is circled on the composite.  Who was responsible for that?” Wesley asked.
“I did,” admitted Unique.  “We were talking about his look, and I meant to circle dye.  I think I just got frazzled when he got so mad.  He didn’t want it originally when we talked Friday.  He added it when we were reviewing what he wanted.  I circled the wrong one on the form.”
“So this wasn’t revenge,” Wesley asked.
“It was a mistake,” Unique answered.
“Kurt, Sebastian said you might have it out for him,” David stated.
“It’s no secret that Sebastian and I don’t get along, but this wasn’t a big elaborate conspiracy.”
“The highlight mixture came from you, right?” David asked.  “One of the assistants said he overheard you making jokes about giving another contestant unwanted highlights.
“It was Santana, and I’m sure all of the girls were aware I was joking, including Santana.  Elliott did ask me for the leftover mixture for the highlights, and I honestly didn’t think anything of it.  Chandler mixed too much, and I was trying to help him out.  I think we were all so busy, we just didn’t question it.”
“Well, Sebastian is pissed.  He wants you all fired.”
“Mr. Thompson, you can ask the guys and the assistants.” Kurt spoke up.  “Sebastian was completely hostile and out of line even before the mix up.  Unique was nervous, as I would be.  He called her rude names and insulted her expertise.  It was really uncomfortable.”
“Are you saying she had cause to want to get even.” David inquired.
“Yes, but that’s not what it was.  She made a mistake,” Elliott said, patting Unique’s shoulder.
“I’m sorry,” Unique said.  “I’ll fix it without pay.  And I’ll apologize, but I think I deserve one too.”
“I think both are fair, and you do need to fix this, although I don’t want you alone with him.  I talked to Madam Tibbideaux, and she said that Sebastian has had issues with contestants, so I have no reason but to believe it was as you said.  Your other clients all praised your work, so I think once we get his hair fixed, we will just deal with this with a warning that something like this will never happen again.” David said sternly.
“Yes sir,” Unique, Kurt, and Elliott said simultaneously.  
“Elliott, you will do the dye job, but I’ll be there so you don’t have to deal with his attitude.  In addition,  we are installing a camera so that we have evidence if anything like this ever happens again.  Understood?” David asserted.
The stylists all nodded.
“You all may go,” David stated.  Kurt put his hand on Unique’s shoulder as she let out a deep sigh.  “Do you believe their story?” David asked Wes.
Wes smiled.  “Not completely.  I don’t think this was pre-planned, but I don’t think it was completely an accident.”
“I don’t either.  They are all too good at what they do, and I just don’t see them making a mistake like that.  However, I do see Unique and Kurt especially as people that don’t let people push them around.”  David grinned.  “Kurt’s intelligent.  Gifted even.  I’ve seen his file.  His IQ is up there.   He’s a problem solver, and he thinks quickly on his feet.  Sebastian is a pretentious snob, and Kurt knew exactly where to hit him.”
“Well, Sebastian definitely deserved it, according to the reports from the other contestants.  No one likes him, and they all have a reason not to. Maybe this will teach him to play nice,” Wes reasoned.
“Do you think it will?’ David asked.
“No, I don’t.  I think this is far from over,” Wesley answered.  “But maybe, at least, he will leave the stylists alone.  I think he’s too smart to mess with them again.  He’ll play along, but he strikes me as the type that will try to get revenge, and he will do it when everyone least expects it.”
“So what do we do about it?” David asks.
“We can do nothing right now,  except alert Ms. Sylvester that she has a real problem with Mr. Smythe.” Wes remarked.  “Although she didn’t seem to mind that too much when we had that discussion before.”
Just moments after Sue concluded her meeting with Mr. Figgins, Becky entered her office.   Sue was laughing so hard she almost fell out of her chair.  Wes and David had explained what happened, which made her immediately pull up the footage she had from the hidden cameras she had in the salon.   She couldn’t believe that the pasty-faced kid had it in him.  Well played, Porcelain, well played, she thought, as a gigantic grin spread across her face.
“Coach, one of the contestants is here to see you,” the girl explained.  “Do you want me to throw him out?  He doesn’t have an appointment.”
“Send him in, Becky.
Sebastian stormed into Sue’s office, waving his arms hysterically.  “Look what those twinks did to my hair,” he accused.
Sue cackled.  “Kathy Griffin’s attorney called.  You are being sued for copyright infringement.  She wants her hair back.”
“Well, my father will be calling you soon with our lawsuit against those horrible excuses for stylists that you all hired!” he shouted.  “This is a conspiracy.  And I wouldn’t even be surprised if you were in on it,” Sebastian accused.
“Why, Annie, I’m hurt.  Do you really think I would do something like that?”  Sue pouted.    I think you should look no further than Spongehair Squarechin and Mr. T.   They probably got tired of being the only ones with pathetic hair.  I could see where all that procuct seeped into Buttchin’s head, and made him snap.  Why, I bet Porcelain, Urethra Franklin,  and Glitterrock Vampire were just all helpless pawns in this entire affair,” Sue cackled.
“So you think this is all a joke?  Do I need to remind you of the evidence I have on you.  This is unacceptable.  I will not be tampered with!” Sebastian yelled.
“You mean the way that you tampered with Porcelain?” Sue fired back.
“I didn’t physically cause any harm to him,” Sebastian argued.
“Neither did he.  There’s no proof he was even involved.  Besides, I dig your new style, although I can’t decide whether I’m craving a Big Mac or a Baconator Burger more.”
“I’m sure that Gayface is to blame for this!” Sebastian shouted.
“You know, I don’t know who you are referring to.  I think every color of the rainbow is represented in that house,” Sue laughed.
“You know what?  That’s it.  You don’t want to handle this, I will find someone who will!” Sebastian threatened.
“Oh yes, your daddy, King Triton.  Go ahead, Ariel, and swim off to the BigShot State’s Attorney,” Sue chuckled.
“Do you think my father is the only person of power and influence that I know, Ms. Sylvester?” Sebastian sneered.  “My mother is a close friend of June Dalloway, who is one of the benefactors and producers of this show.  All I’d have to do is contact my mother, and this show will be cancelled faster than a flight from the North Pole in a blizzard.”
“Please, do you really think I’m buying the crap you’re selling there, Syndrome,” Sue snarked.  “There’s no way you would have the plug pulled on this show.  It hasn’t aired yet, so you will get no airtime, and all the little horny pansies and twinks whose pants you want to get into still won’t know who you are,”
“Do you think this is the only means I have to get famous?” Sebastian snarked.
“Yes, I do, because otherwise you would have used all those powerful contacts that your precious mumsie has to get you a record deal.”
Sebastian gulped.  Damn, she was smart.  He had underestimated her.  “This isn’t over,” Sebastian snarled.  “I want them fired.”
“Can’t, all the fire is in your hair, Sexy Spice.”   Sue laughed.  “Look, we will see to it that your hair gets fixed so you can return to looking as stupid as you did before the makeover, and I’ll reassign your stylists so that you don’t have to worry about this happening again.” Sue said, extending her hand.  “Scouts honor.”
“Yeah, sure.  I believe that as much as Batman believes the Joker,” Sebastian huffed.  This isn’t over.”
“Coach, phone for you!” Becky hollered.
“Thanks, Becky,” Sue hollered right back.   She turned toward Sebastian.  “Actually, for right now, it is over.  I have another matter to attend to.  So, get the hell out of my office, Carrot Top.”  Sebastian snarled.  “And next time, I’d be a little more careful who I mouthed off too!  Karma’s a bitch,” Sue grinned.
“She said get out, Loser!  Who did your hair?  Elmo!” Becky taunted.  “Oh Snap!”
Sebastian stormed out of the office, slamming the door behind him.    
“What are you doing?  Will asked Emma.
“I’m cleaning.”  Emma sighed.
“That spot again?” Will asked.
“Um, I never stopped.  I mean, those girls seem clean enough, and they said that they cleaned, but then I found dust bunnies under the bed and the trash wasn’t emptied, and there were spots on the wall,” Emma explained as she continued to scrub at the spots on the wall with a magic eraser.”
“Emma, that’s not a stain.  You wore off the paint,”  Will said, walking over to her and gently removing the sponge from her hand.  “Emma, it’s clean.  Trust me, I worked as a janitor in a theater until I could get a role I desired. ”
“I can’t, Will.  I could never sleep in here if I knew it wasn’t clean.” Emma reasoned.
“Well, then, let me at least help you,” Will offered.  “Actually, I think I owe it to you.  The contestants have been working together so much better since that team building exercise.  Even Sebastian’s playing nice, although I think that the stylists may have had something to do with that,” he chuckled.  “It’s good that we can move in here and help so that we can prevent issues instead of watching them erupt like they have been.”
“I agree.  But I feel bad.  This place was cramped before, and I don’t want to be intrusive,” Emma fretted.
“I don’t see it as being intrusive at all.  I think we’re being supportive.  They aren’t children, but they have a lot going on.  It has to be overwhelming.  I think this will be better for everyone,” Will smiled.   “Besides, it will give us time to get to know each other.”  Emma blushed.  “I meant, all of us.  The contestants, you know.  It will help them develop trust in us so maybe, if something does arise, we can help, like the situation with Kurt.”
“I don’t know what to think about this situation with Sebastian.  That guy has a lot of issues.  And I really don’t know what I think about this underhanded attempt to replace him with Kurt,” Emma admitted.
“I don’t think it’s underhanded.  Carmen is being practical.   Kurt has a moral code.  He has a good relationship with the other contestants.  They respect him.  Sebastian doesn’t have any of that. And honestly, Sebastian has done more than enough to justify being removed from the show. I think Carmen knows that the dynamic would be more harmonious with Kurt,” Will explained.  “And I think Carmen feels guilt that Kurt left the show.”
“Do you, feel guilt about him leaving the show?” the red-head asked, looking softly into Will’s eyes.   “Because I do.”
Will cleared his throat.  The way Emma’s honey eyes looked into his caught him off guard.  “Yeah, I do.  And when I went to the hospital and talked to his dad, I really felt responsible.  I mean, we were told that his health was dire.  Of course Kurt would resign.  That’s the kind of guy he is,” Will marveled.
“So this Twister thing?”
“Twitter, Emma,” Will chuckled.
Emma blushed.  “Twitter.  Do you think it will work?  It sounded kind of mean.”
“Not necessarily.    I mean, yeah, sometimes people are more brutally honest online than they would ever be in person, but that may be what they want.  They want to see how an audience will respond to the contestants.  And it will be a great way to draw people in and keep them watching.  They will be invested in the contestants.” Will commented.
“Well, I don’t know if I like it.  What if people say things that are hurtful, damaging?”
“Well, then, they have you to help them see that it’s not true,” Will smiled.
“And what if I can’t?” Emma asked.
“Well then, we’ll just have to all work together.  But I have faith in you, Emma.  I just wish you had faith in yourself.  You’re doing great,” he assured her, his green eyes once again meeting hers, and then looking again at the wall.  “Well, I think this is clean.  Now what?”
“The floor.  I saw dust bunnies under the bed,” Emma remarked.
Will sighed.  “Well, then, let’s take care of that.”
“Finn, I think we found something you are truly bad at,” Puck chuckled, after Finn messed up the steps for the fourth time in a role.”
But I’m getting better right?” Finn asked.
Mike took a deep breath.  “Finn, I think that we need to adjust this routine.”
“I don’t understand why we have to do choreography in the first place.  I’m a musician, and this is a rock song.  Why can’t I play?” Puck complained.
“Play what?” asked Mike.
“Drums,” the tall man answered.
“And I play guitar,” Puck added.
“Are you serious?”  Why are we trying to teach you a dance?  I think playing would be impressive, although you may not be seen as easily by the crowd, especially behind the drums.  We would have to get it cleared with the cameramen and the judges.  Are you sure that you want to do this?” the Asian asked.  “Because I won’t stop working with you until you master this, boys.”
“No, Puck is right.  Some of these guys can really dance, like Puck’s brother, and there’s no way we are going to look as good as him, or that tall blonde chick.”
 “And we aren’t going to outsing that heavy black chick,” Puck added.
Finn smacked Puck’s arm.  “Hey, you can’t call her that.  That's insensitive, dude.”
“Sorry, we can’t outsing that heavy, black girl,” Puck nodded.  
“I think we should do what Kurt did in his final audition.”
“Sing a showtune in skintight gold pants?  Man, I’ll never get laid again,” Puck complained.
“No, he said he was going to do some boring show tune, but he changed his mind and sang a completely different song!” Finn exclaimed.  
“Yeah, another campy show tune, in gold pants!  I still don’t see your point.”  Puck sighed.
“He said he decided to change his mind because the song was more him.  And that Madam chick said she was really impressed because he decided to do something that was more like him,” Finn rationalized.
“I’m incredibly confused,” Mike said.  
“Well, Puck’s kinda rock and roll, and I love classic rock.  It’s our thing.  That’s why they picked us and not another pretty boy?” Finn answered.
Puck was clearly offended by those words.”  “Hey, are you trying to say I’m not a pretty dude?”
“Your brother’s right.  Sometimes, you do say the gayest things,” Finn chuckled.
“Uh, I'm still unsure if I follow?” Mike said, clearly puzzled.
“Sorry man.  Neither of us speak Asian.” Finn apologized.
“I’m Chinese, man.  You know that Asia’s not a country, right?” Mike asked.
“Yeah, man.  It’s a condiment,” Puck responded.  Finn gave him a thumbs up.
Mike shook his head.  “You’re studying to be a teacher, right?” Mike asked, looking at Finn.   Finn nodded.  “Not geography right?”
Finn shook his head no again.  “Nah, I suck at math.”
“Ok, well, explain to me why you don’t want to do the dance routine.”
“Well, there’s this gay dude that does women’s songs and show tunes because he says it’s the most “me,” and they love him.  We aren’t broadway broads.  We are rock and roll dudes that play instruments, and that’s what we are going to do.  We’re gonna get on stage and rock instead of dancing like some boy band or the Beibs.”
Mike nodded.  “That makes perfect sense.  We’ll play up your strengths.  It’s brilliant!”
“See, I knew that tall blonde chick wasn’t the only genius,” Puck grinned.  “So, we’re playing, right.  So no more of this dance crap.”
Mike frowned.  “Well, I still think you two would benefit from dance lessons.  You may not always get lucky enough to get rock songs,” Mike explained, losing focus slightly when he saw the pretty Korean girl in her tights and black leotard.  He took a moment to admire her beautiful new hairstyle, which was wavy and had light brown highlights.  She looked up and caught him staring, and she waved tentatively.  
Puck chuckled.  “Earth to Mike, man.”
“Uh, sorry,” Mike answered.  “What was I saying?”
“Um, something about continuing dance lessons,” Finn answered, but he wasn’t really paying attention either because his eyes were staring at Rachel as she walked in.  She was sporting her new look, dressed in a leotard and tights as well.
“Well, I think practice is pretty much over today, boys,  right?” Puck laughed.
“I’d say so,” agreed Mike.
“That was better,” Mr. Shuester complimented the two boys in front of him.  “Take a break, and then we will run through it again.  Mr. Shuester went over to the water cooler while Ryder wiped the sweat from his brow.  
“And it would be even better if one of us wasn’t sharp,” Jake quipped.  
“I wasn’t sharp.  You were flat,” Ryder accused.
“The only thing that is flat is my abs,” Jake smirked.  “And your game.”
“Oh please.  Do you really think anyone would want you over me?” Ryder laughed.
Jake waved at Marley, who blushed and smiled.  “I don’t see anyone sneaking into your room.” Jake sneered.  
“What’s going on between you and Marley?” Ryder demanded.
Jake jerked his head around.  “Nothing!  I just like her,” he admitted.
“I like her too, but there are rules.  If we mess around, we could get eliminated, or get her eliminated.  You need to cool it,” Ryder warned.
“I told you before that you need to butt out,” Jake said, his voice raising.
“That was before you kissed her,” Ryder retorted.  “A kiss that she didn’t ask for or seem to want.”
“When are you just going to admit that you’re just jealous of me, man?” Jake smirked.
“And why would I admit to something that is clearly false.”
“Because it’s totally true.   I’m better than you at dancing, singing, and better with girls.  Admit it.  You only wish you were a badass like me.”
“Yeah.  That rides a razor scooter.  Because nothing says I’m a badass like a razor scooter.”
“Well, at least I can read.”
Ryder’s face turned hot with rage.  He turned and tackled Jake to the floor, his fist rearing back when he heard a shout.  
“Guys, stop it.  Please stop.  This is stupid!” Marley screamed, running over to the boys.  
Ryder stopped immediately.  Great, so you are calling me stupid too.  Just great!”
“Wait, Ryder, that’s not what I meant,” Marley called out after him, but Ryder stormed out of the studio.  
“What was that about?” Marley demanded, her eyes glaring at Jake.
“Hey, he attacked me.  Don’t look at me like that.” Jake defended himself.
“You guys were arguing.  Ryder doesn’t seem like a confrontational guy.  What did you say to him?” she repeated.
“We argued over the number, and other things,” Jake responded.  
“What other things?’ the brunette questioned, looking sternly into Jake’s eyes.
“You, apparently,” Jake answered.
Marley looked stunned.  “Me?  W-Why m-me?” she stammered.
“Did you tell him?  About us?”
“Jake there is no us.  You kissed me.  I didn’t ask for it.  I mean, I think you’re cute, but it’s against the rules.”
“And what, do you always do what you’re told to do?” Jake asked.
“Yeah, I pretty much do.  And I want this, Jake.  This is my dream.  And you need to respect that.  You need to respect my boundaries.  We can be friends, and that’s it,” she explained.
“Well, then, I’m glad I know where I stand,” Jake replied, turning abruptly and heading for the door.
“I can’t believe Dad didn’t mind me going out tonight,” Kurt told Elliott, walking to the table to join Sugar and Unique.
“You’re a grown man, Kurt,” Elliott replied.  “Besides, didn’t you say that his nurse was staying with him tonight.  Maybe, he’s totally fine with the two of them being alone together,”
“Shoot, I didn’t think about that,” Kurt groaned.
“Hey, it’s fine.  They are both grown-ups.  Let them have their fun,” Elliot laughed, grabbing pens and slips from the table to write out their song choices when it was their turn to sing.  
“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” Kurt giggled.  “It’s actually nice to just go out.  I mean, I love working and I love my dad, but things have been busy since I moved back here.  I haven’t even really gotten a chance to do much at all besides work, sleep, and care for my Dad.”
“Well then, I’m happy that I could be of assistance,” Elliott answered, smiling gently.  “What are you singing first?”, he said, tilting his head to try to get a glimpse of the fair-skinned boy’s song slip.
“Nu uh.  It’s a surprise,” Kurt giggled again.  
“Well, then fine, If you won’t show me yours, I won’t show you mine,” Elliott smirked.
“Uh, did you two want to be alone?” Unique chuckled.
“No, no.”  Kurt responded, scooting his seat back a little.  “This guy was just trying to peek at my song selection.”
“Oh, cause from the sounds of that conversation, it sounded like he was trying to peek at something else,” Sugar giggled.  
Kurt sipped his shirley temple as Elliot drank his Long Island Iced Tea.  “You aren’t drinking.  It’s karaoke, Kurt,” he laughed.  “How can you do karaoke sober?”
“Probably easier than the people that get sloppy drunk and screech the lyrics of some pop song into the microphone,” Kurt said, cringing as he heard the KJ call Sugar onto the stage.  He saw the title ‘Blank Space’ pop up.  “Dear God, let her be able to carry a tune,” Kurt sighed.
“No such luck,” Elliott laughed as Sugar attempted to sing the first verse.  “How about that duet that we talked about yesterday?” he asked.
“Sure, we can do one later.” Kurt nodded.  “What do you want to sing?” Kurt asked curiously.
“How about I write something down.  I’m sure you’ll know it,” Elliott suggested.  
“Sure, I trust you,” Kurt smiled.  “We’ve talked enough about music that you should know that I have a pretty extensive repertoire of music under my belt.”
“And it’s a pretty awesome belt, Mr. Hummel,” Elliott flirted, his eyes dropping to Kurt’s slender waist, admiring his jeans, which might as well have been painted on, as tight as they hugged his legs and crotch.
“You know who else has an awesome belt?”  Unique asked.  “Me, on this next song.  I challenge you to upstage me tonight.”
“Oh it’s on, girl!” Kurt countered playfully, giggling again..  
“Well, you’ll have to beat what I just did,” Sugar gloated, waltzing back to the table.   “So, what are you singing?”
“You’re about to find out,” Unique called as she headed to the stage.  Unique really got into “Blow Me One Last Kiss,” eliciting catcalls and cheers as she strutted off the stage.   “Top that boys,” she challenged.
“Next up, the vocal styling of Starchild!”  Elliott walked over to the KJ and whispered in his ear.
“Hey, everyone, are you ready to rock?”  he shouted to the crowd.  The crowd roared in response.  
“Wait!  The fabulous Starchild requested a Mr.  Kurt Hummel to join him on stage.  They’re going to ‘duet’ right here on stage for you,” the KJ announced suggestively.
Kurt blushed and took a big swig of his drink before walked slowly onto the small wooden stage.  He looked at the screen, nodding in approval of the track Elliott had picked.  He signaled for Elliott to take the first part.
Elliott
There's a girl in the backyard banging on her drum
Sitting in a junk pile laughing at the sun
Singing "Ah-ah-ah, I just wanna be a rockstar"
Kurt became  intimidated as he watched Elliott belting out the verse.  Charisma jsut radiated out of him as he sang.    Elliott smiled warmly at him before singing the next lines.  He motioned for Kurt to sing the bridge with him.
Elliott with Kurt:
If there's a meaning can you show me a sign?
The more I look it just gets harder to find
The world is spinning and I wanna know why
Kurt warmed up to the performance, noticing the crowd getting into it, whistling and hollering.  Kurt began to let loose, shimming his shoulders and turning his waist so that he was pointed towards Elliott instead of the crowd.  In turn, Elliott removed the microphone from the stand and leaned in closer to Kurt, their voices harmonizing every step of the way.
Elliott with Kurt:
And maybe we will never figure it out
I got a feelin' that's what life's all about
I'm learning anything is possible now
Unique and Sugar stood up from their seats and moved toward the stage, whistling and dancing to the music.  The crowd joined in, cheering the boys as they sang.
Kurt watched Elliott let loose and perform for the crowd.  He had to admit that Elliott had an amazing stage presence, the way he seemed so confident and uninhibited. Kurt understood feeling at home on stage.  He was the same way, but Elliott had this sexy quality that just oozed from every pore as he sang.  By the end of the song, a crowd had formed on the stage, and Elliott just leaped, landing in the arms of the audience.  He continued to sing as the crowd passed him around until he made his way back to the stage, singing the final line with Kurt.  
Elliott with Kurt
I was born to be a rockstar
The crowd cheered and applauded as Elliott embraced Kurt in a gigantic hug. “You were fabulous.”  Elliott complemented, pulling back hesitantly.  He really enjoyed spending time with the feisty boy, and rules stated that staff could date.  Elliott knew that Kurt had feelings for Blaine, although Kurt wasn’t allowed to act on it.  He started to exit the stage, as Kurt leaned in and whispered to the KJ.
“Wait a second!” The KJ called to the dark headed boy.  “Judging by the response from the crowd, I don’t think they would mind an encore.  What do you say everybody?” The KJ asked the crowd, who answered immediately by wolf-whistling and cheering even louder than before.
“What do you say?”  Kurt asked, grinning mischievously.
“We gotta give the crowd what they want,” Elliott winked, as a bra landed at his feet.  “Um, well, except that lady,” Elliott smirked.  He smiled even bigger when he saw the song title appear on the screen and the guitar intro began blaring over the speakers.  Kurt motioned for Elliott to start.
Elliott:
Can't explain all the feelings that you're making me feel
My heart's in overdrive and you're behind the steering wheel
Kurt thought back to the duet he had sang with Blaine, which felt like ages ago, and he remembered their conversation that followed.  Blaine had told him him he was adorable.  Jesse told him he looked like he was having gas pains.  Kurt shut that voice off in his hand and decided he was going to try once again to bring in sex appeal.  Elliott had really gotten into the last performance, and Kurt wanted to get into that same mind set.  
Kurt:
Touching you
Touching me
He leaned in toward Elliott, sliding his hands down his thighs.  He confidently got ready to belt out the next lines.  
Kurt:
Touching you
God, you're touching me!
Elliott with Kurt:
I believe in a thing called love
Just listen to the rhythm of my heart
There's a chance we could make it now
We'll be rocking 'til the sun goes down
I believe in a thing called love!
Elliott:
Ooh! Yeah! Come on!
Kurt straddled the mic stand, leaning forward.
Kurt:
I wanna kiss you every minute, every hour, every day
You got me in a spin but everythin' is A.OK!
Elliott and Kurt:
Touching you
Touching me
Elliott removed the mic from the stand, and leaned in closer to Kurt, their foreheads almost touching as they both mimicked the motions from the song, first running their hands down their own arms and bodies and then touching each other’s arms teasingly, swaying their hips suggestively. Elliott even slid his finger down the middle of Kurt’s chest, causing Kurt to about forget to sing the words.  
Elliott and Kurt:
Touching you
God, you're touching me!
Kurt and Elliott now had their backs leaning against each other, asses touching, as they harmonized with one another.
Elliott with Kurt:
I believe in a thing called love
Just listen to the rhythm of my heart
There's a chance we could make it now
We'll be rocking 'til the sun goes down
I believe in a thing called love!
Elliott
Ooh! Yeah, guitar!
During the guitar solo, Kurt ran over to the pole on the side of the stage that was supporting the stage, and spun around it once, testing its stability.  Noting it was  secure, Kurt spun around it several times seductively, Elliott moving over to the other side of the stage to do the same.   The crowd was banging their heads, shouting and whistling aggressively, some of them clearly aroused by what the two attractive men were doing on the poles.  
The boys moved from the poles back to the microphone stands, once again back to back, singing toward the crowd.  
Elliott and Kurt:
Touching you
Touching me
Touching you
God, you're touching me! Oh!
Elliott (Kurt)
I believe in a thing called love
Just listen to the rhythm of my heart
There's a chance we could make it now
We'll be rocking 'til the sun goes down
(I believe in a thing called love!)
Oh, woah!  ( Woo!)
Kurt with the crowd (Elliott):
(Oh, yeah!) I believe in a thing called love (Yeaah!)
(Oh, yeah!) I believe in a thing called love (Oh yeah! Come on!)
I believe in a thing called love (Ya-he! Ya! Hey! Hey-yeah!)
I believe in a thing called love
Elliott:
Whoa, yeeeaah, yeah! Oooh, yeah! Heey! Ow!  
Elliott watched Kurt as once again the boy swung around the pole, this time inverting himself and spinning downward slowly and skillfully.  He knew Kurt was feisty and sexy, but damn!  He wasn’t prepared for all of that.  Elliott was aware that he was developing a crush on the countertenor, but what was going through him now was pure blown lust.  
“Well, it sounds like the crowd enjoyed that,” Kurt laughed.  “It was fun pretending to be sexy.
“Like Hell, pretending!” Elliott blurted.  “Kurt that was the sexiest thing I’ve ever seen.”
Kurt shook his head as they made their way back to the table, both of them dodging ass grabs.  A burly man took Kurt by the arm and started grinding against his leg as the next song started.  Kurt looked uncomfortably at Elliott.
“Hey, didn’t you just see him with me.  Back off!  I don’t share well, or at all, when it comes to my sexy-assed boyfriend,” Elliott threatened.
“Yeah, prove it!” the man challenged.  Elliott winked at Kurt, letting him know of his intentions as he leaned in and planted a searing kiss to his lips, his hands gripping the sides of his face, before pulling back abruptly, leaving Kurt panting and trembling slightly.  
“Fine, sorry man!” the burly man huffed, sulking away.
“Hey, sorry.  I just got this vibe that you didn’t want to dance with him, and I just did the first thing that came to mind,” Elliott apologized.  
Kurt stood stunned in the middle of the dance floor.  
“Kurt.  Are you ok?”  Elliott questioned again.  “Hey, I’m sorry.  I was out of line.”
“I have to go,” Kurt said a little louder than he intended, and rushed for the club’s exit.  
____________________________________________________________________________
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eenie-meanie-mertle · 7 years ago
Text
Empty Parts Empty Hearts pt. 1
Just because the start of summer was supposed to mean fun times and no homework, Mertle had allowed that time to manifest itself into some toxic thoughts.  She was still furious with Randall, hurt by his betrayal from prom and at Thad’s party.  And though she had then spent the night with Ken, it was a meaningless affair.  At the end of the day, Mertle still felt worthless and dumped aside.
Being home only made it easier for her to neglect meals, spend more time hurling the contents of her stomach, and obsess over her appearance.  She even had managed to get her hands on dieting pills that she took in lieu of food.  Of course having two beautiful sisters and a gorgeous mother only made her feel worse.  Maggie still stayed at home while she worked at the magic cosmetics shop, whereas Mary Ann still traveled for her fashion shows.  The eldest sister no longer invited her younger sister to model and any invitation to the actual show were swiftly ripped apart and dumped into the bin by Mertle.  Going to shows only reminded her how imperfect she was and how awful Randall was.
“God, where is she?”  Mary Ann’s voice rang throughout the halls.  A house elf scurried after her, bowing his head at his mistress�� shouting.  “Miss Mertle asked to not be disturbed, ma’am.  Sh-she said she’ll see no one,” the house elf squeaked.  “I don’t care.  I’m her sister.”  Mary Ann hadn’t even finished her sentence when she burst into Mertle’s room.  The younger redhead glared intensely at the intruder; she heard her coming from miles away with her shouting.
“What,” Mertle said in a monotone.  Mary Ann was always furious with her whether it was because Mertle had swiped an item from her show or had borrowed a pair of shoes or was rude at one of her fashion shows, something was always wrong with Mertle.
“Have you been snooping in my room again?” Mary Ann accused.  The house elf shuffled awkwardly in the back.  “You can leave, Malby,” Mertle excused the elf.  “You can’t stop a destructive tornado even if you try.”  Malby the house elf bowed and left the room.
Mertle fixed her glance on her elder sister.  “You hardly live here anymore so it’s not exactly your room anymore, is it?”  Lately, Mertle actually hadn’t gone into Mary Ann’s room for anything, not even jewelry.  Plus, she had only been home for a few days and all she did was mope around in her own room.
Mary Ann narrowed her eyes at her.  “I know you’ve been stealing my things!  Again!  At least now you’ve stopped posting them on your scrapwitch so I can’t catch you.”  Mertle rolled her eyes while the accusations continued.  “Fine.  Don’t want to admit?  Either way, you wouldn’t fit into my dresses anyways.  Your hips would stretch them apart!” Mary Ann spat before turning on her heel and leaving the room.  She didn’t even give Mertle a chance to retort so the younger girl was left gaping and glaring at the space her sister just occupied.
“MALBY!” Mertle screamed from the top of her lungs.  With a pop, the house elf appeared before the redhead and bowed, his long nose nearly touching the floor.  “Mistress called for me?”  Though the elf served the entire Edmonds family, Malby seemed to favor Mertle; it was also only Mertle who referred to him by his name.
“Get me more pills.  I can’t remember how much I have left, but I know I’m almost out.”  Her eyes stung, still hurt by Mary Ann’s words and insults.  Malby bowed again, wanting to suggest food, but last time he did, Mertle threw an entire jewelry box at him.  “Yes, of course miss.”
In the drawer of her vanity, Mertle had an assortment of diet pills that she managed to find.  Some claimed to be all-natural or herbal while some had words she couldn’t even pronounce.  Though muggles barely had a grasp of anything in their world, Mertle was impressed by their equal desire for beauty.  She popped a few pills into her hands and dry-swallowed them down.  And though Mary Ann was no longer screaming in the house, she could still hear her voice and her harsh words.  Mertle poured out more pills and shoved them in her mouth, emptying the entire bottle.
Only moments after did Mertle actively feel sick.  She rushed to her bathroom, her head making contact with the porcelain bowl.  And since she had eaten nothing but the pills, very little was coming out.  But that was what the pills did; they emptied her stomach and claimed to cut fat out of her system and all these far-out notions of helping her.  But she sat there for what seemed like forever, choking and coughing and not able to force anything up.  Her eyes were watering now, her cheeks wet as the tears streaked down her face.  Even now, however, she’d never admit defeat.  It was worth it if it meant being one step closer to being accepted, to being loved.  And after a few moments, she slumped to the tiled floor and her eyes fluttered close.
Maggie hated being the middle child because that meant she literally was stuck between Mary Ann and Mertle, especially when they fought.  She was forced into the role of peace-maker and today was no exception.  The entire family was supposed to go to the preview night of their father’s new radio show and Maggie had not seen either of her two sisters yet.  Granted, they always took a long time to get ready, but even after she saw Mary Ann dressed and ready to go, Maggie was a little worried about Mertle.  She raced up the stairs, getting inpatient for the youngest sister always holding things up.
“Mertle!  Are you dressed yet?  Mother is going to be very upset with us if we’re late!”  She didn’t even need to pound on the bedroom door as it laid ajar.  She peeked in and saw no one and she took another step in.  Sometimes Mertle took extra long showers, so she decided to check the bathroom.  “If you’re still showering, you better get out now before you look like a freaking raisin,” she yelled as she stepped over the clothes on the floor.  Honestly, how does Mertle live in a mess like this.
But when she reached the bathroom, Maggie’s eyes widened when she spotted her sister unconscious on the floor.  “Mertle!” she cried as she leapt to the floor, grabbing her sister’s face; she wasn’t breathing and her heartbeat felt slow.  “Hey, come on now, wake up,” she gasped, her hands lightly tapping on the younger girl’s face.  “What’d you do... drink too much?  Wha-” her own question was answered when she peered into the toilet and saw a few tablets floating in the water.  “Fuck.  Malby!” she called out.  The house elf appeared before them, his hands holding the bottles that Mertle had requested.  “Mistress called for me?”  He bowed but quickly saw Mertle unconscious and his hands holding the bottles.  Maggie frowned, glancing between the elf and the pills.  “What did you do!”
“I-it wasn’t Malby, Miss, I swear!  Mistress Mertle had asked for these!  Malby was only following orders!  Malby swears it!” cried the elf.  The bottles clanked to the floor and the elf began to smack his head against the door frame.
“Stop, stop, I believe you,” Maggie said abruptly.  She didn’t care whose fault it was now; her sister might be dead.  “Call mom and dad.  Get them here now!”
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