#[waves hand] earlier production i guess i don't know | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

httpswritings · 10 months ago

Text

Can't Remember To Forget You — Alexia Putellas x Jenni Hermoso

Warnings: a small mention of irritated skin, i guess some people may find skin harm triggering.

Word count: 2076

Summary: Alexia and Jenni have to share a room for the World Cup.

A/N: I love reading Alexia x Jenni's fics and I got inspired to write this. I don't know if there'll be a second part as I'm currently working on other fics' second parts and writing new stories.

When Jenni got told that both Alexia and her were going to share a room, she knew she had to mentally prepare herself for having Alexia so near. It had been a while since they both broke up, but the older woman knew that «it was always going to be Alexia.» On the other hand, Alexia was aware of the situation being a bit uncomfortable, but it didn't seem to bother her more than expected.

Jenni was one of the first crushes Alexia had ever had. Everyone was always laughing when they got near her. She was caring, tender, and had great humor. Plus, there was a four-year age difference between them, making Alexia feel intrigued by the older woman. It took Jenni a couple of years since meeting Alexia for the first time to be interested in her.

The Spanish National Team entered the hotel; players were divided into pairs, except Irene and Ivana, who were going to stay in a room with their wives and children. Alexia was waiting for Jenni until the older woman suggested Alexia to head to their room without her without any worries. Jenni stayed chatting with Misa and Laia, who were partnered up. “I don't know how things are between you and her, but if you feel like it's too uncomfortable, you can call us.” The Real Madrid's goalkeeper felt a little lost in the ex-couple's situation but still offered some support along with Laia. “It's weird, but it'll pass with the passing of days.” Jenni waved goodbye at the pair and headed to the room, where she found Alexia placing her hygiene products in the bathroom.

“It's nice. The room, I mean...” Alexia nodded, looking up to face Jenni. “I've chosen the bed nearest to the window. Let me know if you want to switch them. I have no problem.” Jenni shook her head and proceeded to unpack her things. Neither of them said a word until Alexia asked Jenni if she wanted her to wait for her to go down to the lobby to reunite with the team. Jenni shook her head again, and Alexia couldn't help but roll her eyes. «This is going to be really hard», she thought.

After having dinner, Alexia went earlier to the room. She tucked herself into the bed. The room was dark and silent, but her mind was loud enough to create the illusion of the room being filled with a crowd. She kept hearing people going in and out of the rooms. A particular laugh caught her attention. She heard Jenni and Misa, accompanied by Laia, who was rushing to sush them. “She's probably sleeping, Misa. Leave her alone.” But Misa insisted on visiting Alexia. “C'mon! It's the first day, and tomorrow we only have a stretching session at midday. It's barely half past nine!” Alexia closed her eyes as she felt some light intruding the room when the three girls entered the room. “See! She's already asleep! Let's go to our room.” Laia dragged Misa out of the room, gaining some whines from the goalkeeper. Jenni couldn't stop the soft giggles from listening to Misa and Laia argue in the hallway as if they were children, their voices only silencing when they closed their room.

“I was not asleep. I'm curious about what you three had in mind.” Jenni jumped, as she didn't expect Alexia to talk. “Jesus, Alexia. I thought you were already asleep.” Alexia got on her elbows, looking at her ex-girlfriend. "Misa wanted to hang out in our room, and Laia, well, she was trying to make sure you didn't wake up.”

Jenni changed into her pyjamas in the bathroom, and when she got out of the bathroom, Alexia couldn't help but appreciate her body. The way Jenni's long legs adjusted to her pink pyjama shorts, and her breasts were perfectly defined by the t-shirt she was wearing. She blushed when she noticed that Jenni had caught her staring, so she rolled over and wished Jenni goodnight.

“Goodnight, Alexia.”

Alexia woke up before Jenni. It was still dark, but she could see Jenni's figure going up and down as she breathed. She remembered the mornings when she would wake up with Jenni sleeping next to her. She loved waking up to a naked Jenni sleeping next to her. Sometimes she would wake her up in between kisses to end up making love to her, «waking you up as you deserve», that was what she always told her. Most of the time, she would admire Jenni's beauty. Alexia was a woman of few words, but Jenni's figure made her feel inspired enough to get into detail, describing every mole, every scar, and every redness. It was more than pure sexual desire. It was love. Pure love.

As the minutes passed by, the room started to lighten up, making the vision of Jenni's figure more clear. She was facing Alexia. Her black hair over her face. Alexia laughed thinking about the days where she would wake up with a tingling sensation on her face, being Jenni's hair interrupting her sleep. Alexia's eyes moved to Jenni's slightly parted lips.

Jenni knew how to kiss, depending on the moment. She could give her the most delicate kiss ever, as a sign of «I'm here with you», «I love you», «You are safe». But she could also give Alexia the roughest and filthiest kiss as a way of saying «I need you», «let's go to the bedroom» or «let's make love». For the very first time in a long time, Alexia felt the need to feel Jenni's lips against hers.

She became aware of that feeling. «Alexia, you're ovulating. Quit this nonsense thinking.» The voice in her mind was trying to convince her of the opposite of what she was thinking. She felt a tingling sensation below her core. The need to wake Jenni up and beg her to touch her, to kiss her, to let her make love to her. She looked at the time on her phone. There were still twenty minutes until the alarm would go off. She closed her eyes. All types of memories of her past relationship with Jenni came back to her, hitting her like a truck.

Jenni helped Alexia experiment back in the day. With her, she explored different areas of her sexuality. When they got together, Jenni was more sexually experienced than Alexia, but that was never a problem. They decided to wait some months until they made love for the first time. Alexia smiled as she remembered how well it went. Jenni couldn't stop holding her. She had never felt that loved, even if she had had good experiences before Jenni. But with her... It was different. «Ale, if you feel the need to stop, tell me. No matter how far we've gone. Tell me whatever you need to make you feel as good as possible.»

Alexia felt overwhelmed the first time Jenni gave her an orgasm, finishing with some giggles. They shared a precious moment of intimacy. The Catalan woman couldn't forget the first time she gave Jenni an orgasm. Seeing her blissful face as she called Alexia's name out was something Alexia couldn't even describe to this day. Every time she made Jenni orgasm, she felt more addicted to her and the sounds she made. «Ale! Right there, mi vida. Right there...»

Alexia was so induced by her memories that she didn't realize Jenni was waking up. “Good morning.”

The Catalan looked over Jenni's bed, seeing her with a timid smile, so sweet if it wasn't because of the way Alexia was feeling right now, which had nothing to do with sweetness but pure lust.

“Good morning, Jenni.”

«This can't be happening to me!» Alexia couldn't think properly. She didn't know how to act. All that was on her mind was the image of Jenni's butt perfectly shaped by her underwear. She pressed her legs against each other, gaining a pleasant sensation below her core. «Is she playing games with me?», Maybe that's not a big deal for her. It's not the first time someone from the team is in her underwear in front of me. This happens in the locker room many times. It's not a big deal. It's not a big deal. It's not a big deal.»

Actually, Jenni didn't do it on purpose. She realized what she had done when she entered the bathroom. Her body stayed completely frozen in front of the mirror. She didn't know how to get out of that situation. Thankfully, Misa and Laila knocked on the door. “Good morning, girls!”

«I don't know why I was grateful for them coming over, because this is even weirder. How am I supposed to get out of the bathroom like this?»

Misa called Jenni from the bedroom. The older woman decided to give some naturalness to the situation. «If it gets weird, just joke about it.»

She got out of the bedroom, and silence filled the room. “What? Does my morning face scare you or what?” She pretended to be as unbothered as possible. “Were you hot last night?”, Misa asked, gaining a hit on the shoulder from Laia. “Yes, very hot. I couldn't sleep.” The goalkeeper felt a little lost. «Yesterday she was uncomfortable with sharing a room with Alexia, and now she gets out of the bathroom almost bottomless.» Misa knew Jenni never felt weirder out by showing skin around people she trusted. It was normal to be topless on Spain's beaches, and no one really cared apart from tourists. Plus, they all got changed in the locker room. It was the fact that Alexia had stayed immobile on her bed, playing with her hands and gluing her hands to them, unable to look up since Jenni had left the bathroom.

Laia and Misa eventually left, leaving Jenni and Alexia alone. “Sorry, I didn't remember I had taken my pants off. Maybe it was because of the jet lag, but I couldn't sleep, and the sheets started to be itchy without any reason because they are clean, but if it makes you uncomfortable, I understand that—”

“No. It's fine.” Alexia finally looked at Jenni, gaining a smile from the older woman. “Why didn't you tell that to Misa instead of agreeing on you being warm?”

“Because I actually was. As I scratched my skin to stop the stitching, or at least to try to, it left me with a warm sensation on my skin, especially on my stomach. I'd have to put some lotion on, I guess, because I'm still getting some reaction from it.”

Alexia frowned. “Still from last night? May I see? If it's not too much for you.” Jenni pulled her shirt off over her stomach, only leaving that area visible, and Alexia jumped off the bed to get near her. “Jenni! It's red. You need to put some lotion on. Did you do this just by scratching? Are you sure it's not an allergic reaction?” Jenni melted at Alexia's preoccupation. It reminded her of how Alexia behaved when she was her girlfriend. Caring, clingy and funny.

“Can I touch it?” Jenni nodded, tensing to the contact of Alexia's hand on the irritated area of her stomach, trying to be as delicate as she could. “Jennifer, I'm serious. If you don't go to get that checked, I'm dragging you towards the medical team by myself.“

Yeah, that was also Alexia. She could be the most easy-going person in the field, but as soon as something happened, she would remain stoic about her position and do whatever she thought was right. Jenni loved that side of her, too. She would usually tease her, «Okay, Captain!» and Alexia would not give any answer back, still focused on whatever happened.

But now it was different. They had that tension around them. Still sexually attracted, they were cautious around each other, not wanting to make the other one uncomfortable.

“Don't worry, Ale—Alexia. I'll get it checked, but probably after having breakfast. I'm starving.” Alexia still had her hand on Jenni's stomach when she noticed her hand tremble, accompanied by a sound from Jenni's body, indicating how hungry she was, making the two of them laugh as they forgot for a few seconds all the tension they had been holding.

#alexia putellas imagine #alexia putellas x reader #alexia putellas #jenni hermoso x reader #jenni hermoso imagine #jenni hermoso #woso #woso imagine #woso x reader

236 notes · View notes

ch3rryc4ndy · 2 years ago

Text

Teachers Pet

Relationship - Professor Hyuck X Fem Reader

Genre - Smut

Summary - After being forced to transfer university’s, you realize you won’t be missing the last one as much as you though once you meet your math professor

Warnings - teacher and student, choking, impact play, semi dubcon? (includes a scene that may be aggressive towards reader but all is consensual), degrading, language, pet names

"Y/N WAKE UPP" my roommate calls out from the living room. I sigh in irritation realizing my alarm probably didn't go off. I get out of bed and walk out to the kitchen and see the clock barely says 7 am thinking it was already almost 9 "why did you wake me up so early nayeon?"

"It's not early you just need to wake up earlier and be more productive!" she squeals, I sigh and come to the conclusion that she is right, I do need to start getting up earlier. "fine I'll go take a shower" I say walking towards my room to get my things.

[Time skip ]

I'm almost done getting ready when nayeon comes into my room "also since you are new here, we have a new professor. I know it sucks you had to transfer colleges but you'll enjoy it here!" I smile and say "I'm just lucky to have a roommate as amazing as you" nayeon chuckles and hugs me from the back "now hurry up we are almost late"

Me and nayeon walk into our math class a few minutes early seeing a few people scattered across the room. We both sit next to each other and I look around scanning the room and looking at the fresh faces I've never seen before.

I hear anyone talking to one of her friends and can tell they are flirting once I turn around noticing both of them practically almost making out due to how close they were.

She turns around and introduces me to the girl she was talking to and says "Y/N this is Irene she's amazing, she's one of my closest friends here" I smile and greet Irene with a wave. She is stunning, I guess gorgeous gorgeous girls attract one another.

I hear the chattering in the class quiet down once I hear the door open. "Today's lesson will be on statistics and the way it affects us in the real world." I freeze realizing how good-looking the professor is. I was looking at him in awe when I feel nayeon hit me saying "I think you're drooling" and giggling.

I roll my eyes and ask "so what's his name?" she gets closer and whispers "we don't know his name he just makes us call him Mr. Lee, he's a total ass sometimes I mean that's just how Geminis are right" I laugh and whisper back " how do you know he's a Gemini?" I ask "it was his birthday a few weeks ago and some of the students brought him some presents" I nod and look back at him.

"girls in the back can we cut the conversations to a zero" we freeze and realize our laughing was too loud. "you on the left what's your name, are you new here?" I gulp knowing he was talking to me "my name is Y/N I just transferred here yesterday" I say holding eye contact.

"I didn't ask for your life story I asked you for your name, I'll let you off this time but I don't appreciate talking during my lectures" I nod and say "I'm sorry sir it won't happen again" he stiffens from what I said confused if I said something wrong. Nayeon chuckles at this for some reason. "no worries" he clears his throat "please stay after class so I can explain the rules I have in my class since you weren't here for the run down" I nod and say "yes sir".

I turned to nayeon and write "what was so funny?" on a piece of paper handing it to her. She opens it and writes "nothing he'll explain it after class ;)" I look up at her confused but forget about it getting lost in my thoughts and not paying attention to the lecture.

The bell rang for class and I began to pack up my things slowly when I hear nayeon say "good luck with Mr. Lee" and hugs me winking at me as she left. I roll my eyes in annoyance feeling a wave of dread wash over me as I make my way down to his desk.

He was leaning back on his desk watching me walk down as I fix my shorts. Once in front of him, I look up and realize how attractive he is, his features up close are insane, and he is super handsome. "I'm sorry that I made you stop your lesson because of me, I should've asked my friend if there were any rules" I mutter, he looks down at me and says "why are you blaming yourself when your friend knew them before you and continued to talk?"

I freeze at his words and say "well it was my fault I'm not going to blame her for it, I should've known and I'm sorry it won't happen again sir" he stiffens again and turns around.

Now sitting at his desk I walk towards him as he motions me with his finger to come to him. "first things first don't call me sir, it does sound good coming from that pretty little mouth of yours but don't say it in class"

I stand in shock processing what he just said, I feel a rush of heat rise to my cheeks and I say "Ok"

"what do I call you then" he looks down at my legs and back up at me and says "Mr. Lee is fine, while in front of the class, but out of it you can call me hyuck, or anything you'd like"

I see from his tone what he meant in those last words. I smile snapping myself back into a serious face. "is that all?" I say, he stands up and leans on his desk "yes Ms. Y/L/N"

I smile and say "yes sir- I mean Mr. Le-" I jump at his sudden movement, he stands up and grabs me by the face covering my mouth. "you're making it hard for me you know that? I have no idea why I'm acting like this with you" he sighs, letting go as he watching me closely studying me and my next move.

I drop my phone on the floor and look up at him while I get on my knees and get it. His chest starts to rise as he's holding his breath "I'm sorry sir I dropped my phone" I say looking him in the eyes with a smirk on my face. He moves his hand down to my face pulling me up from the floor as I drag my hands on his legs up to his chest.

He pulls me towards him, lifting me to his desk and pulling my face to his. I was going to say something but before I could he cuts me off putting a finger to my lips and says "save the pretty little voice of yours for later"

I crash my lips onto him as I start to take off my jacket, I let out a moan, moaning into his mouth causing him to smile. He pulls my shirt up and says "no bra? You were just waiting for me to fuck you huh?" throwing it behind him not breaking the kiss. I eagerly unbutton his white shirt as he takes off his belt.

"shorts off now" he says breaking the kiss as he watches me undress. He turns me around and pushes me onto the chair "play with yourself" I look up at him and smile. He leans back on his desk watching me take off my underwear. He stares in awe while I rub my clit while not breaking eye contact.

"Hyuck" I pant out tilting my head back taking him by surprise. He groans softly as I pushes two fingers into my pussy pumping in and out of me "stop" he demands as I look up at him and slow down my pace. I look him in the eyes as I lick my fingers clean.

He pulls me towards him pulling me back up onto his desk as he makes his way down to my pussy and kitten licks, getting more aggressive with each lick. I let out a loud moan as he circles my clit with his tongue, looking up at me he muffles "you taste so good you know that" I smile and tug his hair as he starts to lick faster making my back arch.

He pulls his head back making me whine "be a good girl and keep quiet ok" I nod as he makes his way up to me unzipping his pants.

I kiss his neck and look back at him realizing how toned his body is, he has an amazing body I think to myself. He noticed me looking at his body and smirks thrusting himself into me.

I let out a moan as his thrust got harder, causing him to cover my mouth. He groans as I bite his hand making his hand tightly grip my throat "you're such a whore, first day here and you already let your professor fill you up with his cock? wasn't this supposed to be me explaining my rules? " he hissed as I give a weak smile due to the overwhelming pleasure "only for you" I whine as I grip onto his wrists.

This caused him to fasten his pace, smacking me, and causing me to almost fall off the desk "what's so fucken funny? Let me wipe that smile off your face" he says turning me around and laying me flat on his desk.

He lifts my ass teasing me with his dick and thrusts hard into me. We both moan, filling the room with clapping and moans. He grabs a fist full of my hair and pulls me up to his chest while pounding into me "I wish I had a mirror so you could see how pathetic you look right now, I'd fuck you in front of it just so you can see how pretty you look" he chuckles, I say nothing as he laughs and continues to fuck me hard on his desk.

I knock down his papers by accident as I try to grip onto anything I can. I hold onto the table as he pounds into me. Incoherent words start to come out of my mouth as I try and form a sentence "I said save that pretty little voice of yours" hyuck coos as his other hand covers my mouth.

I feel myself starting to orgasm as he hits my G spot. "H- hyuck I'm-" I try and make out the few words I could. " be a good girl and cum on my cock doll, please you can do it, I know you can" he purrs as he grips my jaw, and chuckles.

He lifts my head eagerly "I'm not done with you yet" he groans as he turns me around letting my hips go and leaving me on the desk. I hear his voice from behind me "get up now" he demands, I weakly lift myself from the desk and turn around holding onto the edge trying to balance myself.

"sit" he says as he's sitting down on his chair. I walk over to him and sit down on his lap "you look so weak already, did I already ware you out?" he says smiling at me. I fall on his shoulders out of exhaustion as I shake my head.

He laughs and thrusts into me again while he holds me down by my shoulders hitting a new spot and causing me to wince. Tears start to form in my eyes due to the mix of pain and overwhelming pleasure.

Hyuck lifts my head to look up at my face and sees the mix of emotions on it as his thrusts get harder. "shit" he says as his thrusts get messier, I feel myself reaching my 2nd orgasm as I drop my head down to his neck "I'm cum-"

He thrusts one more time, filling me up with his warm cum, causing us to both moans from pleasure. Hyuck lifts me onto the table and cleans himself up as his lap was covered in a mixture of cum and sweat. I lay there looking at the ceiling with my mouth slightly open trying to process everything that happened in an hour while catching my breath.

As he's zipping his pants he chuckles at the sight of me. He pulls me by my legs making me slide towards him and pulls my arms up to face him, " let me help you get dressed" he grabs some tissues he had on his desk and cleans my inner thighs up, pushing 2 fingers in me causing me to groan as I grip onto his back.

He pulls them out for the last time and licks them clean, "I had to get the last taste for today" he smirks. As we finished dressing it was hard for me to stand up due to how weak my legs were at the moment "do you need help" he says chuckling.

I nod my head as he pulls me towards him, kissing me "this is our little secret ok, give me your phone" he hums as he taps his finger onto my lips, I'm a bit taken back by him wanting my phone but I comply and give it to him.

He types his number in and names himself "HC ", he takes a picture of us while he kisses me on the cheek and puts it as his contact photo "what if someone sees this" I say with my arms wrapped around his waist.

"well aren't you just going to have to hide it" he coos with a smile. I gather my things and make my way out of the door as he stops me "I had a great time today Y/N if you ever need a follow-up on the lecture don't mind calling me" he says with a smirk on his face.

"I noticed you weren't even paying attention to my lecture during class so I think you'll have to come over to my place for a punishment, don't you think? Maybe you need it to be fucked into you" he adds

"I think that's the only way I'll listen" I purr.

#haechan #haechan fanfic #haechan smut #kpop smut #nct smut #nct dream #nctzen #hyuck smut #hyuck x reader #hyuck

633 notes · View notes

hogwartsandhawkins · 1 year ago

Text

Prove Me Wrong

Chapter 12: Don't Be A Stranger

If you need to catch up here's the masterlist

Summary: Apparently... Jess has new plans for Christmas

Warnings: Mentions of Neil (gross), crude language, cursing, Neil being homophobic if you squint, Billy being a little shit. I think that's it, but as always, let me know if I missed something.

Word Count: 4.8K

Author's Note: I'm so sorry I've been MIA for so long but I'm officially back from my month and a half vacation! TBH I've missed you guys and hope you all enjoy!

“You chaperoning tonight?” Steve walked with Jess toward the parking lot from the gym as they left practice much earlier than usual. The coaches considered this an “early Christmas present” but ensured the basketball team would be having practice a week before school started again in January. The Snow Ball had been the talk of this school week even if it was only meant for the middle schoolers. However, it had also been an excuse for the high schoolers to throw their own parties or get-togethers, not to mention it marked the beginning of winter break, something everyone, including Jess, was looking forward to.

“Not this year, you?” Jess already knew the answer. Steve never enjoyed that kind of thing, and even if he did, both Nancy and Jonathan would be there tonight, which would have made him want to change his plans.

Steve shook his head but added, “I’m helpin’ mini-Harrison with his hair tonight though and droppin’ him off tonight.”

“Who? Dustin?”

“Hell yeah Dustin. He’s gonna kill it tonight, I know it.” Jess laughed at the thought of Steve combing another teenager’s hair for them.

“So what are your plans tonight then?” Jess contemplated this question. She wasn’t sure whether she would start on the tedious task Mr. Crowley assigned both her and Billy as Billy probably wouldn’t want to spend his first night of freedom studying. Considering the night it was, she was sure that Hargrove already had plans. She then looked out into the lot and saw him leaning against the familiar blue car, cigarette already placed in his mouth of course. Max was there as well, which surprised Jess since their practice was released 20 minutes after Max’s school was.

“Uhm, maybe get a head start on some schoolwork. I’m not sure really.” She kept her eyes on Billy though, hoping that maybe that would change.

“Lame.” Steve teased. He continued to walk with Jess, passing his own car as he did so.

“Uh wasn’t that-“

“I thought I’d walk you. Besides Max is there,” was all he said, keeping his eyes on the pair in front of them now, eyeing Billy skeptically as he walked up. “You excited for tonight, kid? You’re first one, right?”

Max beamed up at Steve, clutching her board as she responded, “Oh yeah, can’t wait, especially since Henderson said you’d be doing his hair again, and that went soooo well last time.” Steve cringed at the memory of two weeks ago, which was described to Jess as a wreck. Dustin apparently was adamant about doing it himself, as he was a hands-on learner apparently, and it ended with screaming from spraying product right in his eye and a small chunk of hair being ripped out due to his hair tangling in the comb, which Dustin swore was due to him balding.

“Yeah well, I’ll be doing it tonight… I think.” Steve began to stare down Billy again who was also looking at him intently, blowing smoke straight at Steve when he glanced over at him.

Steve aggressively waved his hand once to get most of the smoke away from him, annoyed by the gesture. “Harrington.” Billy nodded his direction once Steve was able to get most of the smoke out of his face.

“Hargrove.” They stared at each other for a moment longer when Steve continued, “Guessing you got big plans tonight,” he prodded, insinuating he would be partying with Tommy and Carol, as the pair were always up to something during the Snow Ball.

Billy swiped his teeth with his tongue as he crushed his red with his boot, smirking to himself when he looked down to ensure it was fully put out. “Don’t really know, Harrington. Depends on what this one wants to do.” He gestured toward Jess, which caused Steve to shift uncomfortably, not enjoying the thought of Jess spending as much time as she had been with Hargrove. Steve rolled his eyes at this, being the first to break the staring, and directed his attention back to Max.

“See you when I drop Henderson off. Don’t have too much fun.” He directed his last statement to Jess, shoving her arm lightly as he finished his sentence, flashing her a smile of acceptance to lighten the mood. He made sure to give Billy one last look of disapproval, though, before he turned back in the direction of his own car, shaking his head as he left them.

Jess sighed as she watched her best friend leave. She had made it a point to hang out with Steve more this week, as there wasn’t much for her and Billy to do for their shared reading and she felt as if she had been blowing him off more the past week. However, she felt guilty when she would sometimes imagine what Billy was doing during her moments with Steve.

Considering his failed relationship with Nancy, a relationship that he sacrificed a decent amount of his friends for, she knew he needed her in a way. And the feeling was mutual. He had been the one person she could turn to after the haunting incidents from a year ago and again just a couple months ago. She knew she could never lose Steve. And yet, here she was, spending time with the one person Steve couldn’t stand. Throughout the week Steve had come to accept her and Billy’s strange partnership, which Jess always defended with, “we may as well get along for the project” or “he hasn’t been a total ass yet” occasionally sprinkled in their conversations.

This thought also irritated Jess. She wasn’t able to do right by Steve, her best friend since moving to this town, when she secretly enjoyed Billy’s company. And she couldn’t do right by Billy, a boy who over the past weeks had shown just how great of a friend he could be when she constantly undermined his character around Steve. She began to realize she was running out of time, that she would have to be truthful eventually, and that she was on the verge of hurting someone’s feelings. But just like cleaning out her closet, she decided to push this task for later. After all, she wasn’t exactly lying, was she?

“Okay, Jess, I’m in.” Max’s voice ripped her from her thoughts as she turned back around to face the passenger side of Billy’s vehicle.

“Oh, right.” Jess lowered herself in the seat, placing her bag on the floor of the car as she closed her door softly. Billy still had a smirk plastered on his face as he too watched Steve walk toward his car, but it fell when he shifted his head to Jess who was looking at him, mildly annoyed.

“What?”

“I know you’re just trying to piss him off.”

“You don’t know shit, Jess.” Billy gave her a teasing smile as he reached toward the glove box to retrieve his Ray Bans.

“I know he really doesn’t like you.”

“Yeah, well.” He placed the glass on the bridge of his nose and pulled out of his parking spot, unphased by Jess’s statement. Jess tsked at his nonchalant behavior rolling her eyes slightly, turning up the radio for background music. “So what are you doing tonight, Logan? You’re not one of those freaks who chaperone are you?”

Jess nudged his arm harder than intended. “I used to be, thank you very much. But no, not this year.”

Billy laughed at how offended she was. “I’m just sayin’ I don’t understand why any normal teenager would want to spend their night doing that.”

“It’s not that bad. It’s actually kind of nice.”

“Whatever you say, princess. You know, we haven’t broken in your ‘new’ TV yet.” Billy began to raise his eyebrows at her. “Let me take you to Family Video and actually pick out a good movie.”

“I actually already watched Sixteen Candles this week in my room. So it is broken in.”

“Without me?” Billy pretended to be hurt by this fact, gasping at the end of his question for effect. “After I moved it to your room and everything?”

“You don’t even like that movie.”

“I do!” Max spoke up from behind them, leaning in closer to the middle console as she scooted her body closer to their seats.

Jess turned to face her, smiling triumphantly as she addressed her. “Well then maybe we should have a movie night.” She then eyed Billy smugly, insinuating he was the one who had shit taste in movies. Max bounced excitedly at the thought of this, realizing that she would have all the free time in the world this winter break.

“Alright Logan, you let me pick one movie, and the rest can be all the corny chick flicks and sci-fi shit you pick out.”

The three of them pulled into the Mayfield/Hargrove driveway, Billy turning off the ignition before turning to Jess. “Wanna come in for a bit, need to pick up my wallet and drop the kid off to get ready for the Shit Ball.” He flicked Max’s forehead as he said the last part, earning his hand a loud swat from Max.

“The Snow Ball.”

“Whatever.” Jess once again rolled her eyes at their bickering and left the car, but before Jess could position the passenger seat to allow Max to leave comfortably, she instead climbed the middle console as she normally did in the mornings and stepped on the seat before crawling out. “Aye, watch the shoes shitbird.” Max ignored him, walking into the house first with her skateboard in hand. Jess and Billy quickly followed, Billy holding the door for them, closing it once they were all inside. Max quickly retreated to her room, Billy leading Jess to his.

Billy walked straight to his mirror, which stood next to a table that had an assortment of colognes and an ashtray. His wallet was placed next to the tray. Billy thumbed through it to make sure its contents were still there and turned to see Jess standing by his dresser, eyeing what appeared to be a photo album. “Ah shit, forgot to put that away.” He began to grab for it, but instead of putting it away as he first intended, he opened it in front of her. “I guess I did promise to show you California, huh?”

Billy flipped through the album and within seconds made it to pictures of his favorite beach. It looked exactly as Billy described last weekend. The sand looked so soft like it couldn’t possibly burn your feet even if you stepped on it on the hottest day. The ocean was crystal blue, white foam collecting at the edge where it met the shore. Jess looked at the picture at the bottom left and saw the same beach, but this time a beautiful woman was standing in the middle, smiling as bright as the sun that caused her to shield her eyes when taking the shot.

“Is that…”

“My mom,” Billy confirmed. He stared at the picture with Jess, his face still as stone.

“You look a lot like her,” Jess replied softly, afraid that the comparison would make him uncomfortable. Billy nodded his head. He knew this already. Everyone said it.

Except Neil.

“Yeah…” he whispered, his head nod accompanied by a melancholy smile. Jess turned the page slowly, allowing Billy time to stop her if he felt the need to. When the page was flipped, what she found instead of the same beach were birthday pictures, a young Billy posed in almost every one of them. She looked at the middle picture on the right page and saw Billy smiling behind a cake with five candles lit in a circle. The color of the frosting caught Jess’s attention, as it was a strange shade of purple with random blue streaks hidden in spots of the cake.

“You like purple as a kid?”

“What?”

“Your cake.” Jess watched as Billy’s eyes made his way toward the same picture, and then he began to shake his head.

“No, uh, my favorite frosting’s strawberry.” He began to run his index finger over the cake lightly before pulling away again. “But, you know, strawberry frosting’s pink. And my dad didn’t like that so much. Made my mom fix it. She was tryna turn it blue.” Billy then turned the page and directed Jess to another cake, this time it was a shade of bright red and had six candles that were not yet lit. “My dad didn’t like the purple too much either but said it was better than nothing.” He then let out a sad laugh as he kept his attention on the new cake.

“But the next year my mom changed the color. Perfected it, I guess. That’s kind of why red’s my favorite color now, got used to it every year.” However, this wasn’t entirely the case. The truth was, though he did favor red when buying certain clothing and objects for his room, he would much rather be able to say that pink was his favorite. He wasn’t sure why. Maybe it was due to the fact that he wasn’t allowed the color in his life. Maybe it was the way that he was envious Max was allowed it though she was able to choose not to like it. But he chose red, just like his mother did, and that would have to be enough.

Before Jess could figure out how to respond to this, Billy began to navigate effortlessly through the pages again, where he found more recent pictures of himself and other teenagers who looked around his age at the same beach he showed her earlier. They stayed for a moment as he pointed out certain pictures and memories before he grabbed the album and plopped it on his bed, nodding toward it, indicating she should go sit. He went to the opposite side dropping himself down as well as he moved the album closer to the pair. Billy propped his upper half with his left elbow, his lower half draped off the right side of the bed. His head would have been on her lap if he hadn’t been holding himself up, making Jess shift nervously. They continued to look at pictures of the beach before Billy changed positions, allowing his eyes to meet hers.

“So whatya think now, Logan, east coast or west coast.” Jess looked away from the pictures and down at Billy, who was already giving her a smug grin, looking up at her with a glint in his eye.

“Mmm…” Jess then shrugged her right shoulder forward, rocking the upper half back and forth, teasing her uncertainty, “I guess California isn’t too bad.”

Billy turned himself once again, facing the album, his arm now brushing against Jess’s leg as he continued to flip through the pages with his other hand. There were now pictures of carnival rides and games. Behind most of these pictures was a beach, but it was much more crowded than the beach Billy had been showing her.

“Santa Cruz beach boardwalk,” Billy said as he continued to turn the pages. Lots of pictures were taken here, many of which had what looked to be an 8 or 9-year-old Billy throughout them. There was only one of what looked to be a younger Neil, still sporting the same mustache he had now. Unlike his son, he wasn’t smiling as he barely wrapped his arm around Billy for the picture. “My mom always wanted to visit the Bay Area.”

They continued to look through the pictures, Billy attempting to only show her the pictures of things to do in the state of California and avoid pictures of his family and childhood home. It wasn’t until Billy glanced down at his wrist to look at the time when they decided to leave his room. “Better get goin’ if I’m picking the movie tonight, huh?” Billy playfully smacked Jess’s leg as he began to pull himself off the bed. He reached into his jeans pocket and pulled out his keys, jingling them in his hand as he made his way to his bedroom door. Jess left the album open on the bed as she followed him out of the room, both of them walking out the front door together.

Billy walked toward the passenger door as he began to make a habit of opening it for Jess when she was riding with him. She remembered when she used to be annoyed by the gesture, but now she realized that she rather enjoyed it, allowing him to shut the door for her when she was secured inside. When he entered the car as well, he quickly peeled out of the driveway, ensuring they were no longer driving on Cherry Lane when Neil’s vehicle pulled in.

They pulled into the parking lot for Family Video in record time, Billy wasting no time as he promptly exited the car. He began rounding the front of the Camaro but stopped when he watched Jess open her own door and exit just as quickly. Jess noticed where he was standing and looked back at the door before looking at Billy again.

“Oh. Sorry.”

“Didn’t I say I was a gentleman?”

“Eh. You’re kind of on and off with it.” Jess smiled back at him as he shook his head.

“Smart ass.”

Billy walked closely behind Jess as they entered the store, making a point to open the door for her before they did. She began to look around the store, beginning to walk toward the left. However, Billy grabbed her arm and began to steer her to the right of the store. “Wrong way, princess.” She looked in the direction of where he was leading her, and her eyes began to widen as she saw the section they were entering.

“Absolutely not!”

“Ah come on. I’ll be right there.”

“Yeah. That makes me feel soooo much better.”

“The fuck is that supposed to mean?”

He let go of her arm and began thumbing through the horror movies, looking around to try and find something more interesting than what was already in front of him. He then looked over at Jess again, still expecting an answer to her earlier statement.

“You seem like the type to try and scare me even more than the movie is going to.”

“You should learn to trust me a little more, Logan.” He then held up two tapes and faced them toward her. “How about I let you choose.” Jess was now looking at Friday the 13th and Halloween II.

“How about…” She mocked the way he spat out his last sentence “… neither.” After what happened in Hawkins, she would have thought her fear of horror movies would have subsided, that nothing could beat the fear of what she witnessed both last and this year. It was only a week before Halloween that Steve also attempted to watch Halloween II with her and Nancy, and instead of Nancy cuddling up to Steve as he intended, she was allowing Jess to hide behind her as she refused to look at the screen. Steve looked only slightly put out the rest of the movie, earning Jess the nickname “cock-block” for the rest of the week.

“Alright then, smart ass.” He put back Halloween II, the movie Jess would have picked if she really had to, considering she had already “seen” it, and held the other tape in his right hand, beginning to steer Jess to the front counter with his left.

“Are we really gonna watch that?”

“I’ll let you pick out the snacks.”

“Great...”

Billy successfully added the rented movie to his family’s account and the two of them left, Jess shuffling her feet a bit slower than usual, slightly less excited for tonight, not wanting to seem incredibly lame for her inability to watch the screen as the movie Billy picked out played.

As they left the parking lot, Billy drove passed the mini-mart everyone usually picked out snacks for a movie from Family Video, and instead began in the direction of the grocery store on the other side of town. Jess began to turn her head toward the mini-mart and began to open her mouth before Billy quickly interrupted.

“Can’t go there. The guy won’t sell to me.”

“Won’t sell to… what do you mean ‘won’t sell to you’?”

Billy just gave her a mischievous grin and turned his attention back to the road. Jess then scoffed. “You really think we’re gonna be drinking in my room with my parents in the same house?”

“Relax… it’s just for me. Unless you actually wanted some. Then whatever.” Jess just shook her head in response, failing to hide her smile as she pretended to disapprove.

They arrived at the grocery store where Billy apparently had the “hookup”, a middle-aged man who looked like he would rather be anywhere else but there. Billy quickly went after a six-pack of American Colonial and then turned to Jess. “Whatever you want, princess.”

“Whatever I want.” Jess repeated back, reassuring Billy that she will be getting just that. Considering that she would be forced to watch a movie that would cause Billy to tease her for the rest of Christmas break, she figured he owed her. She made her way to the candy isle first, grabbing a few Charleston chews bars and then a Twix bar. She handed these over to Billy, freeing up her hands as she walked over to the chips and crackers isle, grabbing a bag of Doritos and a package of room-temperature microwave popcorn. “You’re lucky I have drinks at the house,” she stated smugly and began walking toward the register Billy pointed out to her earlier.

“Is that everything…” The middle-aged man, apparently named Brian, asked with a monotone voice.

“Yup,” Billy responded, not looking back at the man until he slid his cash out of his wallet and handed it to him.

“One thirty-two is…”

“You can keep it big guy.” Billy grabbed the bag and the six-pack from the side of the register, nodding at Brian as he turned to leave.

“Yippie…” Jess heard Brian sigh as they walked away.

The ride to Cherry Lane was longer as this grocery store was not on the same side of town as their neighborhood was. When they eventually made it back home, it was beginning to get dark, which made Jess slightly anxious.

“Shit, I think dinner’s done…” Jess began as she unclicked her seat belt and reached for the door handle. The original plan, as described by Billy, was for him to drop her and the goods off, park his Camaro back at his house, and wait a few hours before climbing her roof to her window. However, she looked back at Billy with something else in mind. “Do you… wanna maybe come in? For dinner I mean. I don’t think my parents will care. You can still come back later tonight.”

Billy looked at her for a few moments, watching her nervously shift as she asked this question. It caused him to smile. If he were to tell her the truth, he would say how much he enjoyed the first time he ate dinner with her and her family, and how she would never have to ask if he wanted to do it again. All she would have to do was tell him he was welcome to.

Instead, he dropped his smile and shrugged nonchalantly, looking away from her and to her front door. “I mean, I guess.”

“You don’t have to if…” Billy was already out of the car, unwilling to have her finish that sentence.

“Let’s get to it, Logan.” Billy was at her car door again, opening it as she grabbed the plastic bag from her feet. When her door was closed, she noticed that he had taken the six-pack out of the car with him.

“You said that was for you!” She whispered harshly at him.

“It is. For tonight.” He winked at her and positioned the pack at the bottom of the bag, covering it with the rest of the snacks. “Why do you think I asked for your shit to be double-bagged?”

“Dammit, Billy.”

“Better hurry upstairs.” He winked again, nudging her with his shoulder. “Hey, don’t worry. I’ll distract them. They love me.”

He was right. For some strange reason, they had taken a major liking to him, especially since the TV incident. And to her dismay, her mother refused to stop talking about how Billy Hargrove was such a ‘nice boy’.

Yeah. Right.

Jess swiftly unlocked the front door and made her way to the stairs, movie in one hand, the now heavy plastic bag in the other.

“Hey mom, I’m just gonna-“

“Oh hi, hun. Oh and Billy! What a wonderful surprise! Dinner’s about ready if you’re hungry dear.”

Billy had obviously occupied her parents without even trying, giving Jess an ample amount of time to stash the bag before either of her parents even wondered what she had. When she made her way back downstairs Billy gave her a chum smile, accompanied by another wink as he made his way to the dining room.

“Told you,” he whispered just loud enough for Jess to hear, both Mr. and Mrs. Logan scrambling around the kitchen.

“Shut up.”

Dinner tonight was made up of skirt steak, Mrs. Logan’s famous garlic mashed potatoes as served last time Billy stayed for dinner, and an assortment of roasted vegetables. As usual, it was amazing. The silence that accompanied the occasional sound of silverware clanking against porcelain was soon interrupted by Mrs. Logan.

“Oh! Billy!” Mrs. Logan took a drink from her wine glass before continuing as she captured the rest of the table��s attention. “So my husband has been talking to your father…” she smiled at Mr. Logan, missing Billy’s cringe at the mention of his dad. “They’ve been doing a lot of that at the bank, and the topic of Christmas came up.” She was now looking back at Billy and Jess, both their expressions confused.

Mr. Logan cleared his throat, nodding as he was beginning to remember the conversation his wife was alluding to. “Right. So we normally do Christmas Eve with the Harrington’s and their boy Steve. He’s actually on the basketball team as well, I’m sure you know him.”

The same mischievous smile from the car came back as he looked over at Jess quickly before turning his attention to her father. “Oh yeah. Harrington. We’re great friends.”

“Oh good. Figured you would be.” Billy glanced over at Jess again as she cleared her throat. “Well we were thinking, since your family is new into town, you guys live practically next door, and since you, Steve, and Jess seem to be friends, I invited your family over for Christmas Eve as well. We just do dinner and-“

Mr. Logan was interrupted by Jess choking on her steak. She reached out for her water and chugged a bit, clearing her airways before looking at her dad. Billy was covering his smile with his hand, his elbow propped up on the table, attempting to look unphased.

“Sorry,” Jess coughed out. “D- do you think we’ll have enough room? I mean, we don’t have that many chairs and-“

“Oh don’t be silly, it’ll be fine. Besides, the table extends and I’m sure we’ll find some other chairs upstairs," Mrs. Logan butt in. Billy remembered the room upstairs with all the old, mismatched furniture, and wondered if any of those chairs would be in any condition to be sat on, considering most were missing legs.

“Alright,” Jess said in a small voice, pushing her food around with her fork. It wasn’t the idea of having Billy over for Christmas Eve that made her uneasy, rather, the fact that she would be having Billy over for Christmas Eve with Steve Harrington. It will be a whole evening. A whole evening of Harrington and Hargrove in the same house. At the same table. And she would be in the middle of it.

The vexatious glint in his eye was still there as he removed his hand from in front of his mouth and looked back and forth between her parents. “That sounds great. Can’t wait.” He then smiled over at Jess before bringing back his attention to his food and began to eat again. “By the way Mrs. Logan, dinner is amazing.”

Jess continued to sneak annoyed glances at Billy, who was smugly eating his dinner, apparently amused at what just happened. When everything was finished and both Billy and Jess brought the remaining dishes back to the kitchen, Billy once again spoke up.

“Thank you so much for tonight, but I should get going soon. Again, Mrs. Logan, dinner was great.”

“Well thank you for stopping by, don’t be a stranger!” Mrs. Logan called out to him.

Billy strutted his way back to Jess, who was standing at the landing of her stairs by the entryway. As he reached out for the doorknob, he looked down at Jess, towering over her until he bent down so his lips were just at her ear.

“See you tonight, gorgeous.”

@nix-rose @fandom-princess-forevermore @ooo---hazelgrimm---ooo @axionn @defenslessheart-main @the-lost-are-ignored

#billy hargrove fanfiction #billy hargrove #billy hargrove imagine #billy hargrove stranger things #billy x reader #billy hargrove x reader #billy stranger things #billy hargrove fic #billy hargrove antis dni #billy deserved better #billy hargrove deserved better #billy hargrove x oc #billy fanfiction #stranger things x reader #stranger things #stranger things 4 #stranger things au #billy antis dni

72 notes · View notes

stargazer-sims · 5 months ago

Text

The Art of Redemption

(part 19)

previous // next // story index

—————

After leaving the animal shelter, Nikolai and Ginger headed straight for his place to collect some stuff for Tangerine. They mutually agreed the cat would stay at Ginger's apartment at least until Beth-Anne got back, partly because Nikolai doesn't have permission to have his cat at Beth-Anne's house, and partly because even if he did have permission it'd likely be a two-person job to introduce Tangerine and Elvis to the idea of living under the same roof with minimal damage to each other or their humans. Ginger's only pet is a lizard, and they reasoned that after Tangerine's traumatic experience at the shelter, the bearded dragon would be a far less stressful housemate for her than another cat would be.

Their next stop was a local pet supply store where they had a great time buying things to donate to the shelter, and where Tangerine got loads of attention from strangers while she strolled up and down the between the rows of shelves in her pink harness and leash like she was taking Nikolai for a walk rather than the other way around.

Once their shopping was done, they went to Ginger's place to set up Tangerine's bed, food bowls and litter box. They left her sleeping in a patch of sunlight on Ginger's bed, and then made their way back to the shelter with their numerous bags full of cat food, blankets, toys and treats.

Nikolai noticed that the middle-aged woman who'd been at the reception desk during their previous visit wasn't there when they returned. Lakeisha, the shelter's manager, was the one who greeted them upon their arrival. She thanked them multiple times for their contribution, and said she hoped Tangerine would recover from her experience and continue to do well.

The conclusion of their trek around the city led them to Beth-Anne's, where Nikolai set about making lunch for the two of them.

Well, depending on how you define 'lunch', I guess, he thinks as he carries the product of his efforts to the table, where Ginger is already waiting with two glasses of milk and two mugs of tea. He's not sure if scrambled eggs, sausage and a garden salad really qualify as lunch foods, but if lunch is defined by time of day rather than by its contents, then... lunch it is.

Ginger smiles as he sets a plate down in front of her. "Beth-Anne's cooking lessons haven't progressed beyond breakfast yet?"

He laughs as he sets his own plate down. "They have, but most of the stuff she's taught me to make so far takes too much time. I was too hungry to wait." He goes back to the counter to fetch the big bowl of salad. "Do you want ranch dressing or raspberry vinaigrette?"

"Vinaigrette," Ginger decides.

He grabs a bottle of salad dressing from the fridge and rejoins her at the table.

The moment he sits down, a wave of fatigue washes over him. He raises his hand just in time to stifle a huge yawn. "Sorry. I think I need a nap."

"After the day you've had so far? I expect you do."

"I didn't even tell you all of it."

"Oh?" Ginger says. "Should I ask?"

"You don't have to," he replies. "If you want to know, I'll tell you."

"Well, I never could resist a good bit of gossip."

"Is it really gossip if I'm telling you stuff that happened to me? I thought it was only gossip if you were passing on a rumour or some story you heard from somebody else."

"You know what I mean," Ginger says. "Scandalous story about someone we mutually know? Yes, please."

"How do you know it's scandalous?"

"It's got to do with Anya, hasn’t it?"

Nikolai grins. "Okay. Fair point."

In reality, however, the tale he recounts to her is nothing to smile about. Ginger listens intently as he explains all about the box Beth-Anne had taken from the hall closet at his house, how he'd finally had the motivation to open it earlier today, and what he'd found inside. By the time he's done, there are no emotions left in him but sadness and exhaustion.

Every time he thinks about the cracked photo frames and his damaged medals, he wants to weep. He doesn't do it, but it occurs to him that with Ginger, he could. She'd never judge him. Just like Beth-Anne would do, she'd comfort him and tell him he had every right to let it all out. Then, she'd likely start plotting vengeance.

He only realizes he's stopped talking when Ginger inserts an outraged, "Bloody hell!" into the conversation.

"I didn't want to believe she'd do something like that," he admits.

"Because you're a sweetheart who wants to see the best in everybody," says Ginger. "It's why so many people love you, and probably why you let yourself fall in love with Anya, and why you believed she loved you."

"She doesn't love me," he says quietly. "I see that now."

"I don't believe she ever did," Ginger says. "Perhaps she thought she did, or perhaps she was just in love with the idea of you. You know, the idea of being with somebody successful so she could... what is it Uncle Stan says about the rink groupies? Bask in the reflected glory."

"Something like that. And maybe you're right. I mean, if you take away the success on the ice, I'm not much of a catch otherwise, am I?"

"Nik, you are the finest catch. If Anya can't see what she's throwing away, then that's her loss, and it tells me she never deserved you in the first place."

"I wish somebody would’ve said that to me before I married her."

Ginger meets his gaze and holds it for a handful of seconds. Finally, she asks, "If someone had, would you have listened to them?"

He has to think about that for a moment. Would he have listened? If Ginger, Beth-Anne, Natascha or anyone else had warned him that he was about to make a costly mistake, would he have declined to marry Anya?

He recalls how he'd felt on their wedding day, watching Anya glide down the aisle in her white gown, holding her father's arm. She’d chosen yellow chrysanthemums to go with the white roses in her bouquet because she knew they were his favourite, and she’d worn her golden hair down because that’s how he liked it best.

Beautiful, talented, rich and popular Anna-Valentina Baranova could've had anyone she'd wanted, but for some reason she'd chosen him, plain, awkward and unremarkable Nikolai Pavlenko. He was in awe of her and overwhelmed by the thought that even though he was socially beneath her, she'd wanted him anyway. It was like a fairy tale, but it was happening in real life, and he was the main character.

If something seems too good to be true, it usually is.

"No," he says to Ginger. "I don't think I would have."

"I'd have said something if I thought it would've done any good."

"I know." He pokes at a piece of tomato with his fork and pushes it around on his plate. "You're always looking out for me, and I know you would've tried to do something to protect me if you could have. It's not your fault that my head was too far up in the clouds to recognize the truth." He stabs the tomato chunk fiercely. "Or to listen to the people who I already knew actually loved me."

"It's not your fault either, you know."

"How is it not my fault? I'm the idiot who made the bad decision."

"Hey." Ginger reaches across the table and touches his hand. "Stop mangling that poor tomato and look at me for a minute."

He puts his fork down and looks up from his plate. "I don't know how you can say it isn't on me."

"I can say it because it isn't on you," Ginger tells him. "You loved her. Maybe you still do, and I know for absolute certain that you tried your best for as long as you could. Longer than anyone else might've, perhaps, but everyone's got their limit."

"But I wouldn't even be in this situation if I wasn't stupid enough to think it could actually work."

"Can you see into the future?" Ginger asks.

"No, but—"

"None of us can predict the future. We simply make the best decisions we can with the information we've got at the time. Making a choice that doesn't turn out to be the right one doesn't make you stupid. It just... well, it makes you normal, doesn't it?"

“I guess so,” he concedes.

Their conversation drifts into a lull as they finish their meal, but Nikolai doesn’t find the silence uncomfortable. It almost never is with Ginger. They can sit together for hours at a time and not say a thing, and often there’s more solace in the absence of words than in the presence of them.

How many times had they gone to the waterfront, found an unoccupied bench and sat staring out at the harbour together, or lay side by side in the grass at the park under the sprawling canopy of a maple tree? Sometimes, after a particularly intense evening session at the dance studio, they'd get on the bus and just ride around. They'd sit at the very back of the bus, leaning into each other and trying not to fall asleep, until the driver told them they'd have to get off because he was about to make his last trip of the night.

Since getting married to Anya, they haven't done any of that nearly as often, and he misses it. People close to them used to describe him and Ginger as inseparable, but he fears he may have let his end of their relationship go in favour of his marriage.

The pain of this thought touches him in a place so deep, it's as if an invisible hand has reached straight through his chest and raked its sharpened nails across his heart. The last thing he ever would've wanted was to take Ginger for granted or make her feel unappreciated or ignored. He hopes it isn't true, and he tells himself he needs to find the courage to ask, and to apologize to her if need be.

"Hey," Ginger says again, far more softly this time. "Are you all right?"

He opens his mouth to respond, but shuts it again almost immediately because he's afraid he'll start crying if he tries to talk. He shakes his head.

Ginger gets up, and comes around to his side of the table. Her offer of a hug is unspoken, but there's no need to articulate it. He stands up and lets her pull him into her arms. She's as tall as he is and nearly as strong, and her tight embrace feels like a shield from all the bad things in the world.

"I'm sorry," he says against her shoulder.

"Why?" Ginger asks.

"I missed you."

"I've been here the entire time." She sounds perplexed. "We see each other nearly every day."

"That... that's not what I mean." He tries to take a deep breath, but the air catches in his throat somehow and he exhales raggedly. "I love you. Not like... you know. Not like a lover, but… You're my best friend and I feel like I haven't been fair to you, like maybe I neglected you in a way, and..."

"Nikolai." Ginger's voice is gentle. "You've nothing to apologize for. I don't know what you think you've done or not done, but I don't think you've ever been unfair to me."

"But things have been different since... Anya."

"Of course they have," she acknowledges. "As they should've been. I don't think she would've liked it if you'd spent too much time alone with me. You were doing the right thing. I'm never going to hold that against you."

"I still feel bad."

"You shouldn't," she says.

“Easier said than done, probably.”

“I know, but try not to beat yourself up about it, yeah? I’d feel bad, knowing you’re blaming yourself for something I never even thought was wrong in the first place.”

“Are you sure it’s okay?”

“Would I say it was if it wasn’t?”

He attempts another deep breath, and this time it’s less difficult. “Thank you. For everything.”

"I'll always be here for you.”

"Me too,” he says. “If there's ever anything you need, I'll do whatever I can for you."

"I appreciate that," she says.

They stand there in silence for several more seconds, but then Ginger lowers her arms and takes a step back. When Nikolai gives her a questioning look, she glances over her shoulder at the table. "Do we want dessert, or shall we just do the washing up now?"

"If it's all the same to you, I think I'd rather go for a nap than tackle any chores at the moment," he answers. "The dishes will still be there later."

"All right," she says. "Do you want some company?"

"As in, do I want you to nap with me?"

"We haven't done that in a long time. Taken a nap together.”

"At least this time it won't be in the back of a bus or on the floor of the studio."

"Or on that horrid sofa in Uncle Stan's basement."

Nikolai feels the corners of his mouth lift involuntarily in what is no doubt the tiniest of smiles. "Uncle Stan's sofa wasn't that bad, but the bed in my room here is definitely better. But, we're going to have to clear all the stuff off it first."

"What stuff?"

"From the box.”

"Oh," says Ginger. "Are you going to put it all back into the box?"

"I think I'll have to, for the time being," he says. "I have to figure out something better at some point though. I'm going to have to store my medals, because I can't display them any more. Not looking how they do right now, and I'll have to get new frames for some of my pictures too."

"We can do that tomorrow," Ginger suggests. "Come and watch me practice, and afterwards we can come back here and measure the ones that need new frames, and then we can go out and shop around for some, if you want. In the meantime, I'll have a look at your medals. It may not be as bad as you think."

"It's pretty bad," he says. He holds out his hand to her. "I'll show you."

She wraps her fingers around his, and he leads her the short distance to his room where everything is still spread across the quilt covering his bed. To him, the jumble of items looks way worse than it did when he'd left it earlier in the day.

Ginger lets go of his hand, steps forward and picks up the box from where he'd discarded it on the floor. She squints at the black marker scribbles. "Does this say 'donate'?"

"Yeah."

"You didn't mention Anya was planning to give your medals away."

"Not just my medals."

"Bloody hell," Ginger mutters. She sets the box upright on the bed and then lifts one of the medals and inspects the crumpled ribbon. "Christ almighty."

"I told you it was bad."

"No... no, it's not that. It's Anya, and the utter nerve of her. Don't worry. We can fix these."

Nikolai wonders if he's heard correctly. "We can?"

"Absolutely. It'll be a bit of work, but I know what to do," Ginger assures him. "We'll pack up everything and take it to my flat later, once we've had a rest and tidied up the kitchen here. It’ll be fine. I'll help you sort out your medals."

"If you really can, that'd be amazing. I just... I didn't know what to do when I saw them that way. Some of them were tangled together and everything."

"That won't happen again," Ginger says. "While we're out shopping tomorrow, we'll pick up some tissue paper as well, and a proper plastic storage box. They'll be safe until you decide what you're going to do with them."

"I already know what I want to do. Eventually, I want to take them home and put them back in their display frame. If I get to keep living in my house, that is."

"That's something you'll have to work out with Anya, I suppose."

"Yeah, but I kind of don't want to think about that right now," he says. "Beth-Anne says I have to deal with it sooner rather than later, and I know she's not wrong, but I don't know if I can talk to Anya. I tried this morning and look how well that went."

"Because you just turned up out of nowhere, with no plan. That's not the sort of conversation you want to have on the spur of the moment," Ginger says. "My two pence, for what it's worth."

"You're probably right," Nikolai says. "But, what am I supposed to do?"

"Come up with a strategy, for a start," Ginger says, as she begins to arrange the medals neatly at the bottom of the cardboard box. "When you think you're ready to speak to her, let me know. I'll gladly tell her when and where to meet you."

"Why do I feel like that's not all you'd gladly tell her?"

"You've no idea how much I'd like to rip her to shreds for what she's done to you, not to mention for this." She gestures at the things strewn across the bed. "But, it's my job to support you, not to interfere in your personal business. As much as I want to charge in and give her hell, that's not really up to me."

"No, but I'll bet you'd enjoy it."

"Oh, I would," Ginger affirms. "I used to consider her my friend, but the more I learn, the less inclined I am to be friendly."

Nikolai lifts the photo of himself and Beth-Anne off the pillow where he'd left it that morning. "Know what I wish?"

"What?" Ginger asks.

"That everything in my life could go back to the way it was before." He holds the photo with its cracked glass out to her. "Remember this?"

She takes it from him carefully. "Skate Canada. I do remember this. Almost no one expected you to do well. You surprised them all with that win, and little did they know it was only the start."

"The medal wasn't the only thing I won. I won back my self-confidence that day. Now it's... it's just like my medals and that glass. Ruined."

"Your medals aren't ruined, and neither is your confidence," Ginger says as she hands the picture back to him. "Here. The glass might be broken, but you can see past the cracks, yeah? Look at what's underneath. I promise, you haven't had your last victory."

#writing #the art of redemption #theartofredemption #nikolai pavlenko #ginger holmes #stargazersims

16 notes · View notes

miyuhpapayuh · 2 years ago

Text

11. heated.

Fourth of July.

"Well, I really don't celebrate white man holidays and shit, but if you find something cool for us to do, then I guess I'll come." Stevie shrugs and turns her attention back to the Living Single marathon on tv.

Tyler rolls her eyes and heads into the kitchen. "Me either. I just want a plate of food. Find those little sparklers and get drunk, ya know?"

"You like being drunk, huh?"

"Eh, I'd rather be high, but drinking is cool, too."

"Hm, my friends—" Stevie sits up on the couch, and stares through the wall like Tyler can see her.

"Girl, those bitches are not your friend."

Tyler comes around the corner, with a plate of eggs.

"Why you say that?"

Stevie's eyebrows furrow.

"That Melissa girl literally left your ass, the last time y'all went to the club. Amber's ugly ass boyfriend almost fought you over some petty bullshit, and don't even get me started on Lis—"

"Okaaaay! Alright!" She holds her hand up in the air, making Stevie stop.

"Melissa didn't leave me. Aaron was waiting on me—"

"Wasn't he just as drunk as you were? Irresponsible, but go on." She folds her leg over the other.

"Whatever. Amber's boyfriend is a bitch. I coulda taken his ass." Stevie places her fingers on the bridge of her nose, listening to her ridiculous excuses.

"That's not the point—"

"He's no John. I woulda handled it." Tyler rolls her eyes, watching Stevie's facial expression change.

"And, Lisa never did anything to me, Stevie. I told you that."

"Right. It's not like she hasn't lied to you before, or anything." Stevie shrugs and gets up from the couch.

"Just.... let me know if you find something. Without them being involved." Tyler raises an eyebrow. Stevie walks towards the steps.

"You know, cause I hate to go to jail on a holiday."

Standing in front of her full length mirror, Tyler messes with the frayed ends of her homemade, blue jean shorts. Her red halter crop top stops just above her belly button, and her hair is pulled up into a messy bun.

Stevie struts into her room, with a smidgen of attitude still evident on her face. Her gray striped dress hugs her figure, her light purple toes sit pretty in her black sandals.

"What are you doing to your hair?" Tyler says, not looking her way.

"What's wrong with my hair?” She asks, turning back toward the mirror to look at her messy bun.

"You're gonna leave it like that?" Stevie rolls her eyes.

"Yes. It’s like ninety-seven degrees outside."

Turning around on her heels, she leaves out and heads downstairs.

Stevie's irritation is stemming from many things. For starters, her cycle came yesterday, throwing her attitude into the pits of hell and making her hornier than ever, with no solution. On top of that, it's hot as hell outside and all she wants to do is stay inside, but both Rod and Tyler are making her leave her air conditioned house for a party at Tyler's cousins' house. And last but definitely not least, the argument that her and Tyler had earlier didn't help a thing.

"Rod's here," she yells, before opening the door and heading down the steps.

He looks up and blows out a rough breath. Between the scowl on her face and the switch of her hips, he's conflicted on giving her a compliment.

He steps out of the car and walks around to greet her. She wraps her arms around his torso, burying her face into his warm chest.

"Hey baby," he runs a hand down her back, "you look good."

"Thank you," she murmurs, "you smell good."

Moving away from his chest, she pokes her glossy lips out, pecking his juicy ones twice.

"Does your stomach still hurt?" She pouts and nods her head.

"I'm sorry, babygirl. I know this heat isn't making anything better, but I want you to have a good day." She pulls away and opens up the back door.

"It's cool. I took some medicine and I've got extra products, just in case. I just need a blunt or something." She sits down on the seat, watching Tyler come out of the house with two small carrier bags and a bottle of Bourbon.

Waving the bottle in front of her face, Stevie snatches it and knocks half of it back.

"Damn!" Tyler laughs and pulls the passenger door open, while Rod moves to where Stevie is.

"Why you sittin' in the back?"

"I'm gonna lay down. My head is pounding and there's more room to get comfortable, back here." Tyler tosses Stevie's bag in the back.

Stevie reaches inside and grabs her red sunglasses, sliding them over her eyes.

"Aight. I got you about that blunt, too." He winks at her, before closing the door. She smiles to herself, before a cramp comes and knocks it right off her face.

Pushing the bag to the other side of the seat, Stevie lays down and places her head in the middle of it. The car starts and they head towards their destination.

"So," Tyler starts, "this party is supposed to be fun. My cousins always know how to have a good time. Stevie can vouch for me."

"Yeah, she's right. They're the reason I started drinking before I was legally allowed to." She hums and rubs her stomach.

"Sounds like a good time. Is the house big?" Rod asks.

"Hell yeah!" They reply in unison. He laughs.

"Do y’all want me to stop and get some water or something? Chips? Water?"

"Yes, please." Rod pulls into the parking lot of a convenient store. He takes his seatbelt off and turns sideways in the seat, looking at Stevie.

"The salt and vinegar ones?" She nods, reaching inside her bag for her wallet.

"Uh uh, I got it. Put that back."

"How you know what I was reaching for?" He smirks.

"Cause, I know you. You want water or a soda?"

"Soda. I need a rush of caffeine through my system." He nods and looks over at Tyler.

"You want anything?"

"A water is fine, thank you." She stuffs a dollar in his hand, before he can protest.

"Alright," he chuckles, "I'll be right back."

"Thank you." They say in unison, again.

The door shuts and the mess starts.

"You love that boy, don't you?" Stevie blows out a breath.

"Tyler, can we please—"

"I just wanna know! At this point, you have to. I see how y'all be talking to each other. How y'all look at each other. Girl, if you don't be straight up and tell me."

"Okay!" Stevie starts laughing, sitting up in the seat. "I do."

Tyler squeals and swats her leg. She flinches.

"But, we've only been dating for a few months! I feel like that might be a little too fast." She shakes her head.

"Girl, life is too damn short to be putting timelines on shit. So what, y'all only been together for three months? You know what's happened in those three months? He killed a mothafucka for you. He's been your first every-fucking-thing. You've met his mom. He's met both your parents. He knows how ridiculous they are, and still comes around. He's dealt with your bratty ass, this long and still comes around. He's so sweet to you. I think it's totally okay that you love him. You'd be crazy to not have feelings for him." Stevie playfully rolls her eyes.

"I guess you're right. I'll tell him. Just not right now."

Tyler starts to say something else, but Rod opens the door. Tyler turns around her seat, while Stevie stares out the window.

"Y'all alright?" He hands Tyler her water. She nods, sending a thank you his way. He pats Stevie's leg, making her look in his direction and grab the bag from him.

"Thank you, baby." He smiles and puts his seatbelt back on, starting the car back up. Stevie opens her bag and begins stuffing her mouth with the salty goodness.

On the way there, she dozes off. Tyler laughs and gets out of the car. Rod turns the car off and walks around to her side.

"Go ahead, I'll get her up." Tyler pulls her bag up on her shoulder and heads down the crowded block a little to find her cousins.

Opening the door, Rod gently shakes Stevie from her short slumber. She reaches for her shades, pulling them from her face.

"We're here, babe." She sits up and fixes her dress, before stretching a little and getting out. She grabs her bag and he helps her up on the sidewalk.

Locking the car, he grabs her hand and they head down the block to find Tyler.

"You're gonna love 'em. Watch out for Tasha, though." He looks down at her. She just laughs.

"Oh my gosh, Stevie!"

"Hey!" Two girls, about five foot seven, stand in front of Stevie. One has the same complexion as Tyler, while the other has an olive undertone.

"You look so good! We haven't seen you in forever! Where have you been hiding?"

"More like who has she been hiding." One of them points at Rod. Stevie tightens her grip on his hand.

"Who's the cutie?"

"Oh, isn't he? This is my boyfriend, Roderick." Stevie looks up at him, "that's Tasha and that's Tia."

He waves. "It's nice to meet you, ladies."

Tasha plays with the ends of her red hair, staring him up and down.

"Quit looking at him, like that." She thumps Tasha's arm, bringing her out of her trance.

"Oh calm down, girl. I ain't gon steal him." She scoffs and pulls Rod deeper into the crowd, introducing more of her extended family.

They find a couple of chairs in the shade. Stevie sits down, pulling her bag onto her lap.

"Can I ask you a question?" She nods her head, beginning to rummage through her bag. He sits down beside her.

"Have these past couple months been what you wanted?" She looks up from the bag, giving him her attention.

"Baby, they've been the best three months of my life." He grabs her hand and squeezes it.

"Why... is there something wrong?" He shakes his head.

"Nah. I just wanted to ask. I know we get kinda ambushed from time to time, so I just wanted to make sure you were loving this just as much as I am." She cracks a smile.

"You don't ever have to worry about that." Tyler walks up with two red cups, filled to brim with some kind of red and blue mixture.

"What's that?" She hands Stevie one and hands Rod the other. Stevie sniffs hers and immediately jerks her head back.

"Woah! How much alcohol is in this?"

"It's probably more than fifty percent. I made it special, just for you. It has strawberries, blue raspberry kool aid and Smirnoff in it."

She bravely puts it up to her lips and takes a sip, utterly surprised at how good it tastes.

Tyler giggles and sticks her blue tongue out at her. Stevie shakes her head.

"Wow... I was expecting it to be very strong." She looks over at Rod, who's still inspecting his.

"Try it! It's good!" Tyler slurs.

"We just got here, and you're already tipsy." Stevie points out. Tyler just shrugs.

"I never waste time, you know that."

Rod shrugs and knocks the drink back, licking the access off his bottom lip.

"See! It's just you who's being a party pooper."

"Well excuse me for having cramps!"

"You're excused, bitch." Tyler quips. Stevie brings her shades back down over her eyes.

"This why I hate when you drink." She finishes off her drink, sinks down in her chair and crosses her legs.

"Whatever. Try to enjoy yourself for God's sake!" With that, she stomps off.

"I don't mean to pry, but is she always like that?" Stevie sighs.

"Unfortunately. It only helps that she's under the influence and around her friends." She made sure to put air quotes around the word.

"Huh... does she know how you feel about them?" Stevie sits her empty cup in the grass and turns toward him.

"Yes. We actually had an argument about it, earlier. I told her that I didn't wanna be around them, because of x, y, and z, but she always makes excuses for them. I'm already in a bad mood as is, and I made it clear to her that if something jumps off, I'm going to jail."

Starting to say something else, he hears the song that was playing in the club on their first date. Stevie, however, is too heated to realize.

"Come dance with me." He stands up and holds his hand out. She grabs it, allowing him to pull her to her feet.

"I also got a stress reliever for you, back in the car." She lets out a satisfied hum, trying to suppress her smile.

"You're my ladyyyy..."

His hands find her hips, running soothing circles into her skin. Her arms drape over his shoulders.

"You feelin' any better?"

"Yeah, the cramps are finally going away."

"I'm glad, babe."

She lays her head on his shoulder, watching people interact. Some are smoking, drinking or dancing, while others are huddled in groups.

She leans up and pulls his face down to her level to place a juicy kiss on his lips.

He comes back in for another one, before pulling away with a smirk on his face.

She stifled a giggle, while he gently swats her ass.

"Hey! If I didn't think you were so dreamy, I'd smack the shit outta you." He chuckles and rubs his hand over her warm cheek.

"My bad, baby."

"Yeah, yeah,” she lets out another giggle.

"Back the fuck up, Amberrr!" Tyler slurs from wherever she's standing.

Stevie sucks her teeth and starts scanning the crowd for her drunk friend.

"I can't leave that girl alone for one— oh no."

Before Rod can question her, she's zooming through the crowd.

He chases after her, nearly knocking people over to try and catch up with her crazed pace.

"What the fuck? Get off of her!" Stevie grips Amber's arm, pulling her away from Tyler. Amber hauls off and smacks Stevie across her face, knocking her shades off.

Rod stops dead in his tracks at the sight, insanely baffled. He's conflicted, knowing she can handle her own but also not wanting anybody to hit his girl.

Stevie briefly touches her stinging cheek, before lunging at Amber, knocking them both to the ground.

Amber scratches at Stevie's face, making it bleed. The ring on Stevie's finger connects with Amber's left eyelid, slicing it. She grips her hair and punches her in the face, over and over again.

"Stupid bitch! I told Tyler, I don't like your ass! Then you wanna hit me?!" She continues to assault her face, until Rod forcefully pulls her away.

"Get off me!" She swings her legs, trying to make contact with her before she's completely pulled away.

"Stevie, what the fuck?!" Tyler appears in front of her with a crazed look on her face.

"You can not be serious, right now." Stevie looks her over. Her crop top dirtied up with grass stains, arms and knees skinned and hair all over her head.

"I am serious!" She hiccups. "Why'd you do that? I had it under control! You just gotta save everybody, don't you?!"

Stevie tries to break away from Rod's hold, but he doesn't budge.

"Why are you talking to me, like I did something wrong? What the hell did I tell you, before we got here? Huh? I told you that if them bitches started something, I was gonna finish it. I was helping you out—"

"Oh, big and bad Stevie has come out to play, everybody!" She waves her hands in the air, causing everybody to look at her. She even starts laughing, infuriating Stevie even more.

"You're such a pest, you know that? I can't handle myself, so you're always right there to 'make everything better', right?! Leave me the fuck alone! I can handle myself, Stevie! You're not my mom!" She pushes her chest, roughly.

Stevie pulls an arm free and punches her in the nose, sending her to the ground.

"Fuck you, Tyler. Find somewhere else to stay, tonight. Maybe your bougie ass friends or your cousins can help you out, cause I'm done." She walks away, Rod in tow.

He allows her to walk ahead, knowing she definitely needs some space. He didn't wanna say anything stupid or anything that would trigger her.

"I've always done right by her stupid ass! She's never even said thank you. It's always about be fucking irresponsible and doing what she wants to do. Fuck me, right? I'm a pest, right?" She furiously wipes the angry tears away.

"Stevie..." she spots the car and walks towards it, yanking at the door handle. He sighs and unlocks the car, watching her climb inside and close the door.

Heading towards the drivers' side, he hops inside and sits sideways, facing her. She looks down at her chipped and broken nails, letting the tears slide down her face.

"None of those bitches are her friends. I've told her than many times, but she won't listen to me. Her cousins don't even like them. Hell, they probably didn't even know they were there."

"Some people just have to realize things on their own, babe. You can't help someone that–"

"Doesn't wanna be helped, I know. But, she's like a sister to me, and for her to treat me like this is beyond me. I never acted like I was her mom. Her own mother doesn't even act like that towards her, I just try and be the best friend I can be. I guess that's not good enough, anymore." She shrugs.

He blows out an exhausted breath, not knowing what else to say. He just starts the car up and starts driving away from the house.

"What about your bag?" She shakes her head.

"It was mostly her stuff. She can have it."

Stevie picks pieces of grass out of her hair, while Rod stitches her face up. She hisses and ashes the blunt in her ashtray.

"Stay still," she leans her head on the mirror, looking at him through her low lids.

"Alright," he closes the small first aid kit and places it back under the sink. "I'm all done."

"How does it look?"

He sighs, placing his hands on either side of her thighs.

"It looks better, now that it's closed."

She pouts and sticks her bottom lip out. He chuckles and pecks it.

"I've got something to tell you."

"Is it good or bad?"

She starts laughing, reaching out for his hand.

"It's great."

"Aight, lay it on me." Intertwining their fingers, he watches her facial expression soften.

"I uh.... I love you."

Stuck in his stance, his eyes dance across her face in shock. She sits up, staring right back at him.

"Babe, say something."

"Wow... you love me."

"Of course, I do. Are you shocked?"

"I'm not— I just.... I guess I underestimated how you felt about me."

"Why? How? I love being around you. I love talking to you. I miss you all the damn time, even when you're right in front of me...You're the best boyfriend a girl could ask for."

"Stevie..."

"I know, this is probably the first time I've told you this stuff, but I was scared. I've never been in a relationship before and I was scared that if I let how I was feeling, that you wouldn't feel the same, but even if you don't, it's okay." She rambles.

"It's a good thing that I do then, huh?"

Her eyes widened. "Huh?"

That boyish grin spreads across his face. He takes her face into his hands, pulling her closer to him.

"I love you, too."

Tyler drags herself downstairs to sit on her cousins' couch. She reaches up to scratch her nose, instantly regretting it.

"Ow, what the fuck!" Tasha comes out of the kitchen with an ice pack.

"Stevie socked your ass, yesterday. Put this on it." Taking the ice pack, she presses it against her swollen face.

"Damn, what the hell happened?"

"Oh, you don't remember?" Tia comes to sit beside her, giving her a disgusted look.

She shakes her head.

"Your stupid ass decided to get drunk, invite those skanky ass bitches that you know don't give a damn about you, and start cursing your best friend out."

"I thought you liked them—"

"No, we don't! We've told you that! Stevie told you that!"

"I'm sor—" Tia shakes her head, holding her hand up.

"Nah, you're irresponsible. You don't give a damn about anybody but yourself. Your best friend took your bratty ass in, cause you hated being around your parents and this is how you repay her? You do know that's her house, right? I wouldn't even let you come back."

"What did I even say that was that bad?" Tasha's eyes widened in disbelief.

"You called her a pest, Tyler. Said that she's always trying to save you from everything, like you can't handle yourself. Well let me tell you something..." Tia stands up from the couch.

"What?"

"You can't! You're a fucking child! You think that because you got a job and you can drink, that you're an adult. Adults take responsibility for their actions. They don't blame shit on other people or push away the people that help them." Tyler pulls the ice away from her face, allowing a tear to fall.

"Tia, I said I was sorry!"

"You really are." She looks between her and Tasha, before walking away.

"Look," Tasha starts, "you can stay here, cause I'm sure Stevie doesn't wanna see you anytime soon, but don't expect us to deal with your bullshit."

Tyler sighs, tossing the pack on the coffee table. In all honesty, she knows that she messed up, but she doesn't wanna admit it.

"You know..." Stevie takes another hit from her second blunt, "it felt good to punch her."

She begins to laugh to herself, while handing the blunt back to Rod. His low and red eyes dance lazily over her face.

"Really?"

"Yeah. I've always wanted to hit her. She's always been a fucking basket case. She never took up for me, it was always the other way around. I always dealt with my own problems, on top of hers. It's never been fair.... ever."

"So.... what are you gonna do?"

"I don't want her coming back here. I don't wanna see her. That's where I'm at right now."

She places the blunt back between her lips, and runs her hands through her tangled hair.

Sitting upright, he watches her inhale the smoke through her nose and close her heavy eyes. He sighs.

"I know you don't wanna hear this, but at some point, y'all have to talk this out. You gotta tell her how you feel and make a decision on whether y'all separate or whatever." He stands up from the bed and leaves the room.

She stares at the ceiling, letting her thoughts drown out the sound of any and everything else.

Do I want her to leave? Do we really need to talk this out? Is she sorry?

"She's not sorry. I know she isn't."

"I meant— everything I said. I don't need to fuckin' apologize." Tyler turns up her third bottle of Scotch.

"If anybody should apologize... it should be her! She caused a scene!" She screams, tossing the now empty bottle on the floor.

"Tyler, shut the fuck up! It's your fault! You fucked up!" The door swings open and Tasha walks in with two duffle bags, tossing them on the bed.

"Stevie doesn't want you coming back for a while, so you'll be staying here. You have to work tomorrow, so you gotta sober up and shit. If I catch you going anywhere near that house, I'm beating your ass. Got it?" Tyler waves her hand and hops off the bed, stumbling around to pick up her mess.

"Ain't nobody worried about that girl. I'll go back, if I wanna go back." Tasha grabs her by the front of her shirt.

"Tyler, I'm not playin' with you. Leave her alone." Yanking away from her, Tyler sucks her teeth and tosses a bottle cap at her.

"I heard you!" She sits down on the floor and palms her pounding head.

"Stop drinking this shit." Grabbing the bottles off the floor, she leaves out.

"Mgh," she grabs a hold of the door and pulls herself up. Sitting back on the bed, she stares at a blank spot on the wall.

The next day.

Heading into the work was a disaster for both Stevie and Tyler.

Stevie's tire went flat, which made her late for work and she ended up having to drive fifteen minutes in the opposite direction to put air in it.

Thank God for forgiving bosses.

Tyler still refuses to admit that she's wrong.

She ended up being an hour late, due to her hangover and stubbornness. Tia had to unwillingly drive her to work, since she was already headed that way.

"I wish you'd stop being stupid, and just apologize." Jetting into the parking lot, she unlocks the door and looks at Tyler.

"I don't feel like I've done anything wrong."

"Well kiss your friendship goodbye, then." Tyler scoffs and gets out, slamming the door behind herself.

"Screw you, Tia!"

“Slam my door again. It'll be me and you!” Tia yells through the window.

Heading inside, she storms behind the counter and pulls her apron on. A woman walks up to the counter and snaps in her face.

"Excuse me, can I get some service over here?" Tyler stares at her through her thick lashes.

"If you could give me a second and stop snapping at me, I'll be right with you." The woman rolls her eyes, but keeps quiet.

"I swear..." she mumbles to herself, before motioning the woman to come forward. "What can I get for you, today?"

"I want the French toast special, with scrambled eggs and bacon. For the drink, I want a black coffee." Tyler scribbles the order down on the pad, before handing it to the cook.

"Alright, that'll be $12.41." The woman pulls out a $20 bill. Tyler opens the register and gives her the correct change.

"Here's your change and your receipt. Can you sign this copy for me?" Printing her signature at the bottom, she gives Tyler the copy and stuffs hers in her pocketbook.

"How long will it take?"

"About fifteen minutes. Do you want your coffee now?" She shakes her head and walks toward the bench by the door.

"I can take who's next!"

Meanwhile...

"I don't know.... I'm just done." Claire rubs Stevie's shoulder, while she fills her in.

"Have y'all talked?"

"No, and I don't want to. If she's sorry, she knows where I am. She has my number."

"Well—"

"No well. It's been three days and I haven't gotten an I'm sorry, yet. She can keep it, at this point." She stands up and dusts off her skirt, heading back to her station.

Stevie, you've got a phone call." She huffs and grabs the phone from Alex, the only guy that works at the coffeehouse.

"This better be Tyler." She mumbles, before putting it up to her ear.

"Hello?"

"Stevie, dear!" Her eyes pop out of her head.

"Joe?! Oh my God!" She covers her mouth and walks back towards the hallway.

"It's been quite some time since I've heard from you dear. How have you been?"

"I— I've been good. How have you been? How's everything?"

"Well, my daughter was able to take me in after I had to sell the house. Even though that was painful, I thank God for her."

"I'm sorry that I haven't kept in touch. So much has been going on—"

"Ah, don't apologize. Life has a way of doing that. I'm just glad you're doing good. I see you found a job!"

"I did! Can I call you, when I get off? We gotta have a heart to heart.”

"Of course, doll. I'll talk to you later."

They hang up and she walks back, putting the phone back on the hook.

"Why is it so slow today?" Alex asks. Stevie shrugs.

"A storm's supposed to be coming. I guess people wanna chill at home and make their own coffee, today." She jokes.

Claire comes out of the office and starts stacking the chairs up on empty tables. Stevie and Alex look at each other.

"Claire, what's wrong?"

"There's a storm coming in like an hour. We gotta close up early."

"It's that bad?"

She nods, still pulling chairs up. They shrug and start helping out.

"Said it's supposed to knock the power out and shit. I don't know about y'all, but I'd rather be at home instead of stuck at work."

"Yeah, we fell out over the weekend. She's just too pigheaded for me, ya know? Like, everything has to revolve around her." Stevie sits on top of some blankets by the window, watching the heavy rainfall on the street below, while Rod raids her fridge.

"I know, dear, but you girls have to talk about this. Even if you don't continue being friends."

She mentally cringes at the thought.

"Mhm... terrible thought, right?"

She sighs. "Yeah, but I don't know if I can continue to put up with this mess, Joe. She's become too much!" Running her hands through her hair, she grumbles to herself.

"It'll all come to you in due time, honey. Whatever's supposed to happen, will happen. Now, who's this young man that your mother has been telling me about?"

"Why is she spreading my business—"

"Hey, hey... all she told me was that you met someone, he's very sweet on you and you seem very happy. I just wanted you to confirm it, so I can ask where the wedding invitation is!" She laughs, feeling the blush rush to her cheeks.

"Yeah, I have a boyfriend. He's the sweetest guy I've ever met." She looks behind her to see him at her counter, chewing on an apple. She laughs and shakes her head.

"Where'd you two meet?"

"We met at school. He almost wiped me out and asked me for my number, and since he was so fine, I gave it to him."

"Ah, my baby's growing up. Tell him that I'm a black belt." She cackles.

"Cut it out!" He laughs, too.

"How long has it been for you two?"

"Three beautiful months."

"Oh, you sound like you're in love." Rod kneels down beside her, placing his elbows on the ledge.

"I just might be, Joe."

"Well, I've gotta get going. Sarah's taking me grocery shopping with her, before the storm starts over here. I'll talk to you later, okay?"

"Okay, tell her I said hi. I love you, old man."

"And, I love you, dear." Hanging up the phone, she wraps her arms around herself and stares at the rain.

"You alright?" Rod asks, rubbing her back.

"Yeah, I just miss him. He's like a second grandpa to me." She sighs and pulls herself up.

"I'm not sure if we should be sitting here, like this. Let's sit on the couch." She helps him up and they fall back onto the comfy cushions.

The phone rings again. Stevie sighs and drags herself to grab it off the blankets, pulling them up as well.

"Hello?"

"Stevie, just listen to me, okay?" Stevie purses her lips, but rolls her eyes at the sound of Tyler's voice.

"Okay."

"I— I'm sorry, okay? I know I did you wrong and I said some shit that I can't take back. I just wanted to call you and let you know that, cause it's been beating me up and I know better. You're not a pest. You make me a better person and I hate you for it," She lets out a laugh, "listen... you don't ever have to forgive me, but I just wanna say that I lo—"

"Tyler? Hello?"

The line cuts out and Stevie pulls the phone away from her ear. She sits the blankets down.

"Hello?! Tyler!" She tries to call back, catching the dial tone. She frowns and walks back to the couch.

"Fucking storm knocked the line out!" She sits down and places her head in her hands.

"I'm sure she's fine. The storm's knocking the power out, all over the city."

Before she can nod, something hard hits the door making them both jump.

"Fuck was that?" It sounds again, this time harder.

"Open up, bitch!" A woman's voice comes from the other side of the door.

"You've got the wrong house!" Stevie yells.

"Nah, I got the right one! Where's my boyfriend?" She yells.

A confused expression finds its way into both of their faces.

"The hell? Who are you looking for?" Obnoxious knocking begins.

"I'm looking for Roderick! I know he's in there, his car is out here!" Looking over at Rod, she gives him a hard glare.

"Who the fuck is that?”

“Open this motherfucking door, before I blow it down!” She yells, clueing him in instantly.

“My psycho ex-girlfriend.” He sighs, standing from the couch.

Stevie scoffs.

"So, I gotta fight a bitch in the middle of a storm, is what you're telling me?"

tbc…

@soufcakmistress @thegifstories @blackerthings @cocoa-puffs @chaneajoyyy @abeautifulmindexposed @twistedcharismaaa @prettyisasprettydoes1306 @nahimjustfeelingit-writes @cecereads209 @nayaxwrites @sheabuttahwrites @blackpinup22

#soulff #rod x stevie #90s romance #miyuhpapayuh #poc writers #blackwriters #black romance #black fiction #black!oc #black!reader #joey bada$$#joey badass fic

50 notes · View notes

20dimensionsoftangerine · 1 year ago

Note

🌈

Fluff? Believe it or not I actually do have something for this!

This is an after credits scene for Properties of Adaine (which is no where close to actually being done) so watch out for big spoilers below!

"You have to take this seriously."

"Please, Adaine," Aelwyn huffed, flipping her hair over her shoulder in a dismissive way, "When have I ever not been serious?"

"Your usual demener is very light hearted and careless," Ayda, sweet Ayda, spoke up. The three of them were in the Golden Garden washroom. It wasn't as spotless as Adaine would have liked but it was the cleanest place in Leviathan and didn't have the risk of Arthur bursting in at any moment. "I can name a few instances where you took a situation with seriousness but they are not many."

Aelwyn pointed at her, like Ayda had just backed her up. "See? I can be serious!"

"But there have been more times that you are not," Ayda made sure to clarify.

Aelwyn waved her hand at her. "Shush."

Adaine groaned and rubbed at her eyes. "I'm regretting this already..."

"I promise to treat this as an issue of grave importance," Ayda said though she tilted her head in confusion a moment after, "though I will admit I don't fully understand why. You're just asking us to... help you with you makeup, yes?"

Aelwyn snorted. "We're polishing our dear little sister."

"Look," Adaine started, glaring breifly at Aelwyn, "I know neither of you can... really understand. But this is extreamly important to me. It's a sign of trust. I wasn't even permitted to get myself ready for months! Not until Goldenhoard was convinced I could do it properly. It's..." She waved her hands about as she searched for the words. "I want to bond with the both of you. This is how I bond, okay?"

Ayda looked increadibly touched but Aelwyn hummed and crossed her arms. "Why now? You didn't even let me watch your skincare routine when I was in charge of you."

"Because you're a wackjob," Adaine answered plainly, causing Ayda to let out one HA before she remembered herself, "and I was kinda worried you'd ban me from doing it at all."

"Ah," Aelwyn said, nodding slowly, "yes I...might have. Your whole thing was very confusing to me. Still is."

"I, for one, am excited to bond with you my sisters," Ayda said, her wings fluttering a bit behind her, "even if I do not fully understand it I recognize it's important to you, Adaine."

"Thank you." Adaine smiled gratefully as Aelwyn nodded along in agreement. Adaine then propped herself up onto the counter, kicking her legs slightly with nerves as she gestured to the products crowding the rest of the bathroom. "Okay, um, I set everything out so you can get started whenever you want."

Aelwyn and Ayda exchanged a glance. Adaine was impressed. Nonverble communication was still hard for Ayda. Ayda cleared her throat akwardly. "Is that it? You are not going to show us what to do?"

Adaine shrugged, the kicking of her legs picking up just a little. "I already did all the base stuff. You guys are just putting the finishing touches on. And you doing whatever you want is kinda the whole point so..."

Aelwyn smirked teasingly. "What if I drew a big butterfly across your face like they do at carnvials?"

Adaine gave her an unimpressed look. "This is why I didn't trust you earlier."

"Okay, okay." Aelwyn held her hands up placatingly. "Nothing too embarrassing. Got it."

"Well..." Adaine hesitated. "I don't care if it's embarrassing. Just... don't make it a joke."

"We should try to reflect ourselves in the design, yes?" Ayda asked, picking up some eyeliner, "As if we were customizing a satchel or our living areas."

"Right," Adaine agreed with a relieved sigh, nodding to her, "just... try to be honest about it, is all, I guess."

"Hmm fine," Aelwyn griped but Adaine knew her well enough by now to tell it was almost entirely a show, "I'll draw on you but in a serious way or whatever."

"Thank you," Adaine said as sincerely as she could and smiled at Aelwyn sticking her tongue out at her.

Ayda gentle cupped Adaine's chin as Aelwyn began rifling around the makeup supplies. "Please close your eyes, little sister, and hold as still as you can."

Adaine did so and succeeded in not wincing when her eyelids were stroked by the eyeliner pen. She kept her eyes closed for the majority of the process, letting herself fall into the feeling of being tended to. Ayda's rougher hands continued to work on its face, her grip softly guiding Adaine's head every which way. Aelwyn's delicate fingers hovered around it's neck and Adaine had no idea what she was doing down there. But they were all too far into it to backout now. Adaine simply didn't talk or move except where directed and tried not to mess up its sister's work.

#adaine abernant #fantasy high #dimension 20 fanfiction #aelwyn abernant #ayda aguefort

9 notes · View notes

e11evenfiftyseven · 1 year ago

Text

Rothmans Blue

Three

I lay in bed, eyes wide open. My chest aches and I wish for nothing more than sleep. Anxiety rides through me in waves. I can feel every extremity, every inch of my skin, flesh, and bone like an electric fence.

There are three short raps at the door and for a moment it snaps me from the unyielding tension harbored in my body.

"Cig-"

I throw my blanket off of me and jump from my bed head out the door without any shoes. He shrugs and follows me down our usual path outside.

He sits closer to me than usual tonight. I don't act like I don't know why.

"So," He says, sunset backlighting his tilted face as he cups his hand around his cigarette to light it.

Some of the tension leaves my body. The air isn't warm, but the sun heats my skin still. It stays stagnant, not even a hint of wind lurking. One of the warmer evenings so far this season, but hangs on cliffside into a much colder and harsher climate.

"How are you feeling about what Price said?" He takes a long drag from his cigarette and that tells me all I need to know about his feelings on the matter.

I look at him sideways. "How do you think?"

He sighs handing me the cigarette. "It'll be ok, you know. It's not like we're all untrained for it. We knew it was coming."

It's not for lack of sincerity, but something about the way he says it leads me to think he doesn't quite believe it.

"Yeah," I say mulling over Price's earlier spiel.

"Besides, it'll be in and out, a quick thing, day or two," he promises again.

I nod, wanting to believe him. "I'm sure you're right. Something about it just feels... off, this time, you don't think?"

He passes me the cigarette mindlessly, deep in thought. I watch him as I inhale, I study him as I exhale.

"A little. But nothin' to get worked up about." He says, then looks at the ground. He looks out towards the horizon. "Not a fan of how sudden it was."

I nod and mumble in agreement, handing him his smile. He was right about that and that's what is unnerving. Never has Price ran into a busy, jubilant room and sent us on mission the next morning, especially not a big one.

Soap is quiet for a while. He says nothing while saying everything. I can see him just as wired as I am, though he truly attempts to hide it well. So well I almost second guess it, but my literacy is too well versed to be tricked by his thin veil.

He has few tells, but I see it in the way he holds his jaw tighter than usual. His posture stands more rigid. He doesn't dare look at me. His usual collected and cool demeanor is nowhere to be found. I search his form up and down. He rushes his hand through his unkempt hair, much more wild than usual, with a lack of product. Very rarely is he seen without his proper and perfectly sculpted peak of hair. Stubble coats his tense face. His gaze lays far away into the sky in front of us. He looks off in away that keeps it plausible that he can't see me, though I know he keeps me well enough in his peripheral.

I look away, the gravity of the situation once more grabbing me and consuming all. I shake away the fear. I have learned by now that I simply cannot afford to pay attention to worry and fear, success in a mission is too dire to jeopardize it with half a sound mind.

He sighs, drawing my attention back. His eyes seem to brim wet, and I squint a little bit to see. He catches me, clears his throat, and any hint at emotion is swept away.

I straighten, hoping he doesn't catch my embarrassment and will think maybe he read me wrong.

"Nothing to see here" seems to be our commonality.

He smiles half-heartedly. "A walk?" He extends his hand to me.

A walk is new, so his offer throws me off. It takes a moment to register, and in that time he pulls me to my feet in a way that lands me awfully close to him as we walk down the paved path.

Something about the time spent walking the paths of the base feels definitive, final. This thought sends me into an ever spiraling train of thoughts into every worst possible scenario.

"Did you hear anything I said?"

My head snaps up. He looks irked. Once again I am left like a deer in the headlights. As I fumble for words, the crickets and cicadas scream louder, the fire flies flicker brighter, and I swear I'm choking.

He gives me a more irritated, pointed look.

I shake my head, feeling like a counter caught child in the cookie jar.

The night fades into blue as his gaze softens, seemingly taking into consideration the state behind my actions. "C'mon," he says, throwing his arm around me. I tense at first but then soften.

Clearly, he thinks he's going to die.

#modern warfare two #modern warfare #modern warfare x you #call of duty mw2 #cod mw2 #soap mw2 #mwii #mw2 #mw #cod mwii #call of duty #john soap mactavish #soap mactavish #soap x reader #soap cod #soap mctavish #john soap mctavish x reader #johnny mactavish #Spotify

5 notes · View notes

newyorkkiss · 3 months ago

Text

obviously nobody gives a fuck about this but me, but here's an explanation of everything i have discovered about the japanese sneaks variant because i am 1) bored and 2) could be interesting to somebody else? doubtful on the latter but alas, let me explain.

as you'd know, i came into possession of a mint, sealed copy a series of sneaks around two months ago now. i'd actually spotted it many months earlier and had been eying it for awhile because it was so bizarre. why was there a japanese release of an album that had historically upon release, sold very bad, like 1,200 copies bad. so why was i only now discovering this? there was virtually nothing on this at all, and by nothing i mean no discogs page which i usually would expect on things. it just seemed to exist. anyways, i got the damn thing and that's when i started to figure out what's going on.

while scanning it i decided to translate the obi just out of pure curiosity.

for the sake of this here's what the back top half translated as:

This is the major label debut album of Spoon, a trio from Austin, Texas. Formed in 1992, they released the album "Telephono" in 1996 and the EP "Soft Effects" in 1997 on Matador. They made waves on the college charts while steadily increasing their fan base through tours with Yo La Tengo, Guided by Voices, and others. The dull and rough performance typical of an American indie guitar band is perfectly matched with catchy melodies.

pretty standard, normal OBI stuff. however, the part that made me notice we have something odder on our hands was the chunk at the bottom:

one thing i noticed straight away was the date of the album release (written year/month/day here) was august 15th. now, sneaks was released on april 28th in the US and got dropped 3 months post-release, in july. so this little thing seemingly existed after they got dropped which in itself, is kind of crazy. i also found it a little odd that its japanese release was so delayed, usually with a lot of them they are either slightly before western release or maybe a month later at that – but i could be wrong.

moving onto the red text, i have several japanese releases and their OBIs so seeing this was kind of strange. so again, i translated it:

Sample product This sample product is not for sale and has been loaned for promotional purposes. Any use other than the intended purpose (such as transferring or transferring to a third party) is strictly prohibited.

interesting! a promo product! wasn't expecting it to be a promo release, which made it more mysterious and illusive. usually promo material exists before an album release so this factored in with the almost 4 months after US release date was even more baffling.

i don't really know japanese album issue standards so if this is normal i wouldn't know, but it is maybe worth comparing it to this promotional copy of justice's † which has a release date of june 6 – a mere 5 days before its western release on june 11. just something to note, i guess.

anyways, with that scanned and looked at, i knew i'd never have the heart to open it to find out what the little japanese booklet contained. thought it was over, leaving with more questions than answers. however by some fucking stroke of sheer luck i managed to locate ANOTHER copy of it that was unsealed and contained the japanese booklet which, despite not having its OBI, was worth obtaining for the sake of preservation.

↑ first thing i noticed that was really cool but not really relevant to this at all – i just think its neat sorry – is that the outer spine on the inlay is written in japanese while the inner is in english. the OBI on my sealed one obscured that!

upon opening it up to get the booklet out, i noticed that it was well, a sheet, and a one-sided one at that. all the other sheets i've scanned have been double sided, one side has a write-up the reverse has all the lyrics translated into japanese.

here's a rough translation of all of that:

In the March 1997 issue of Crossbeat, I wrote a column called "Dislocated Rock, Played by the Distortion of Regional Cities." The column introduced the indie guitar bands (in the broad sense of the word) that were emerging simultaneously all over the United States at the time and invading the college charts one after another. The bands featured are Pavement, Neutral Milk Hotel, Archers of Loaf and their side unit, Barry Black, Number One Cup, Cake, and Built to Spill, a total of seven bands. I would say that what they have in common is "songs and performances that somehow seem to work on the edge of breaking down" and "melodies that don't pierce the ears, but penetrate the ears and stick to the folds of the brain."

I go on to point out that "they appear to have grown up in relatively wealthy families in regional cities (all seven bands are from regional cities), but the brutal Uranai rock and sweet melodies they play symbolize the dark side of suburban life, which may seem happy at first glance," and concludes by saying that the dark side of suburban life, that is, the distortion of regional cities," is one of the themes of modern America, so they are the most American of all." Basically, that idea hasn't changed, but now I think we can add another commonality: they see rock music as a part of their daily lives, as if it were a given. In other words, rock is the "ke" of "hare and ke." So their performance is sometimes rough, sometimes languid, reflecting the mood of the day, or rather, the mood that changes from moment to moment. In that difference in amplitude, I feel the breath of these so-called indie guitar bands living in regional cities.

Spoon, who recently made their major label debut, are originally an indie guitar band that blossomed in one of those local cities. Their major label debut album, "Series of Sneaks," is, so to speak, the result of indie guitar rock that was carefully crafted without being poisoned by trends fabricated in the heart of the music industry.

The band was formed in 1992 in Austin, Texas, with Britt Daniel (vocals/guitar), who worked on sound effects for CD-ROM games at a computer software company, as the core member, along with Wendell Stivers (guitar), currently with Sincola, Andy McGuire (bass), currently with Ursa Major, and Jim Eno (drums).

Just before their debut live show (they were going to play at a club and suddenly needed a band name), Daniel picked out some words he liked from his record collection as candidates for the band name, and all the members voted on it, and the name was decided to be "Spoon." Incidentally, the name was taken from the title of a song by the representative German rock band Can. However, what's interesting is that Daniel said, "I think it's the most boring word I've chosen."

And they called Fluffer and Peek-A-Boo, while recording for small indie bands, they also began to play live in the local Austin club scene, aiming to imitate Modern Lovers, Wire, Pixies, and Lou Reed. After Stivers left the band, Daniel took over as guitarist.

A turning point came in 1994, when they appeared at Anti-South by Southwest in Austin (apparently an alternative version of the South by Southwest rock festival held annually in Austin), and their performance caught the eye of Gerald Cosley, president of Matador Records, a major New York indie label. The following year, they signed with Matador.

By the time they toured with Yo La Tengo, Archers of Loaf, Guided by Voices, Pavement and others, they had steadily gained a fan base, and in 1996, they recorded the album Telephono with Austin producer John Croslin and the EP Soft Effects, which were hits on the college charts.

Incidentally, after the release of "Telephono," McGuire left the band. The bass player was replaced by Croslin and Scott Adair (currently with Paranoids), who also participated in the recording of "Soft Effects, but then left in the middle of the tour. At the end of 1996, Joshua Zarbo, who was in a band called Maxes Rajater in Denton, joined the band as his replacement, and they began recording at their own expense, produced by Croslin.

The material that was completed over the course of a year in 1997 was released in April (in the US) under the title "Series of Sneaks", after they signed with major label Elektra Records earlier this year.

Just to be sure, let's summarise the lineup once again:

Britt Daniel (vo/g)

Joshua Zarbo (b)

Jim Eno (ds) Then there's Brad Shenfeld, the unsung member of the trio. Shenfeld, the self-described spiritual leader and percussionist of Spoon, lives in Baja, Mexico, as a fisherman and has been touring and recording with the band since its formation.

John Croslin, who is a producer but also used to play bass and is almost a fourth (or maybe fifth, since Shenfeld is there?) member of the band, was originally a musician who led a guitar pop band called Reivers in Austin, and released two albums for local indie band DB (their debut is a masterpiece!). After the band broke up, he apparently turned to being a producer. In addition to Spoon, he also produced two albums for fellow rock'n'roll/power pop band Wannabes. He must be something of a leading figure in the Austin indie scene.

By the way, the music magazines over there keep mentioning the Pixies in this album.

I have listed and introduced them, but when I first heard them, I thought it was like Pavement playing The Who's songs. I think what I wrote in the first half of this article applies to their appeal, but specifically, their two main elements, the rough performance that is typical of an indie guitar band, and the subtle melody that lives within it (the impressive song melodies are layered with skilful chord changes), are firmly utilised in every song, from 1, which reminds me a little of Slade's "That's Why I Love You," to the murderously beautiful 14 there are certain things that are clearly utilised in every song.

This kind of melody (which doesn't really pierce the ear, but enters through the ear and sticks softly to the folds of the brain) is combined with a performance that is straight but distorted in a way, distorted but still straight, to create an intense and extremely raw sense of elation. This rawness would never be produced in the polished and harsh mainstream rock (I'm not saying that I'm denying mainstream rock music.)

Another highlight of this album is the performance or arrangement, where solid guitar riffs and lead guitars that sound like they are numb from a weak electric current are interwoven in each song, or even within a single song, to enrich the overall expression. Also, I really like how they don't resort to the method that indie bands tend to do, which is to blur the outline of the song and create a chaotic atmosphere, but instead focus on clearly outlining the song and ending each song concisely. Or rather, I think this properly conveys the image of the band Spoon and the impression of this album to the listener.

Well, overall the performance is relaxed, or rather there's nothing pretentious about it, but the explosiveness and concentration they show (and let us hear) when they lose their temper on tracks 6, 8, 11, 13 remind us that they still have that initial impulse, and it also makes you realise the unfathomable depths of this band. This album already ranked 14th on the College Chart dated May 18th (it remained at 14th on the chart dated June 1st), but even though they have moved to a major label, it doesn't have much sex appeal. I hope that they will continue to evolve and deepen their music at their own pace, without releasing anything (the same can be said for Elektra). However, I'm guessing that these people have nothing to do with such sex appeal. Or rather, as you progress step by step at your own pace, you might find yourself rising to the top of the scene before you know it. So let's all watch over the long term.

By the way, at the end of 2, the lead guitar suddenly plays the melody of "Sakura Sakura", but I wonder if it's just me hearing it?

↑ massive lol at the britt lie about brad. also all the text at the bottom below all of that is CD care instructions which i think is super neat!

once i got around to scanning the disc i noticed that there was something up, that something being a massive red text SAMPLE stamped in the center.

so not only did i find another japanese copy of sneaks, i found another promotional copy. what luck!

with all of that i have to assume: there was no actual wide domestic of a series of sneaks in japan and that all japanese copies that exist of it are entirely promotional – all other copies i have seen on japanese resale are mostly elektra US imports (with the odd merge reissue). with that, it's more than likely a full domestic release was abandoned as soon as the band got dropped – but this release existing well after that is just... odd i feel?

i leave this again with questions rather than answers, but i think it's safe to make some assumptions now. a very interesting little thing indeed.

1 note · View note

green-socks · 3 years ago

Text

Endless Nights

Pairing: Benny Miller x gn!reader (no descriptions or pronouns)

Summary: You and Benny can't seem to get enough of each other's company. Could tonight be the night you find the courage to do something about that crush?

Words: 2,101

Warnings: Nudity but not the sexual kind, food/eating. Almost zero editing and a tired writer.

Notes: I don't always participate in Writer Wednesday, but when I do I take one look at the picture, get an idea and then go completely off the rails. Sorry. So the pic doesn't really have a lot to do with the rest of the fic but I hope that's okay. For this week's @autumnleaves1991-blog Writer Wednesday, thanks for organizing it every week!

I had the idea for midnight shopping at the supermarket with Benny and then realized I didn't want the night to end there... So it didn't. I actually like this piece, even if it probably suffered a lot from my fast writing and non-existent editing. Reader is mentioned having shorter legs than Benny but other than that I think there are no descriptions or pronouns used of reader, lmk if I'm wrong.

MASTERLIST

You and Benny have been driving around aimlessly for a couple of hours already, taking turns in picking the music, and talking about this and that while sometimes falling into a companionable silence. It still amazes you how easy and comfortable everything is with him. You have never felt like this with a crush before, used to the feeling of always obsessing over what you felt like you could and couldn’t say or do, or spending a lot of time and energy into trying to figure out what the other thought.

No, with Benny you don’t have to pretend anything or force yourself to keep the conversation running in fear of those horrid awkward silences, because both of you know that you can talk for hours on end when the mood strikes. You met through mutual friends only a few weeks ago, but the connection was clearly there. As was the obvious mutual attraction.

Strictly speaking, though, you and Benny are just friends. Nothing has ever really happened to indicate otherwise in any case. But friends don’t usually try this hard to find any excuse just to hang out, nor do you stay up late every night talking to your other friends. And when you hang out in a group you always seem to gravitate towards one another. What’s more, somehow it always seems to be just the two of you left at the end of the night, often not even noticing the others leave.

Your interactions always border on the line of obvious flirting with your touches and already formed inside jokes, but neither of you ever dare do anything that couldn’t be brushed off as innocent behavior between friends. You guess you’re both just kind of scared to take the leap - you have been burned before, and so has he.

It’s not that you doubt your own feelings for Benny, or indeed his feelings for you. Even you have to admit that he does seem pretty interested in you, but you still wave away your friends’ squeals of “he’s totally in love with you!”, mainly not wanting to get your hopes up too much.

Because a small part of you still finds it a little hard to believe; someone so handsome and funny and kind wanting to be with you? What if he likes you, but just not as much as you like him? What if you were just a second choice for someone you really like until something better comes along - again? That scares you, both of you.

Tonight has been like many other nights lately; you had been to the movies with some of your friends, but after the movie ended you had been grasping at straws to come up with a way to continue the night so they (Benny) wouldn’t go home just yet. Benny had helpfully suggested just driving around and seeing if any ideas came to mind.

Santiago in turn had rolled his eyes at you two knowingly (making both you and Benny fluster and try to fake complete nonchalance) before saying good night and leaving with the others, who apparently didn’t feel the compulsive need to continue spending time together.

--------

The sun has gone down already but you two are still enjoying each other’s company too much to go home yet.

You end up in the 24/7 supermarket parking lot, craving a midnight snack. You are reminded of your teenage years, when you used to hang around different parking lots, popping into the store to buy a soda or a candy bar, spending all day outside with friends.

The only other customers doing their midnight shopping are tired people just off their shifts or young people staying up late just for the hell of it, much like you and Benny are, in fact. You wander around the huge store together, pointing out different products you’d like to try and reviewing stuff one of you already has tried.

Before long you realize that you have already spent almost forty minutes idly wandering around the supermarket, collecting new soda or chip flavors to test. Neither of you thought to grab a basket at the entrance, so your arms are starting to get a bit full.

“Benny, do you think this might be enough?” you ask while struggling to maintain your hold on the different bags of chips.

Benny looks back at you from where he is pondering over whether to get some ice cream. “Huh, I guess. I do still wanna get a sandwich, though!” he exclaims and promptly takes off in the direction of the deli counter where they sell sandwiches and salads left over from the day.

You try to keep up with his long strides, certain that you must look a bit comical half-running after a man with your hands full of treats. Oh, well. Benny often complains about how much focus it requires of him to “modify his steps” to fit your much shorter legs, and he always forgets about it when he gets excited.

When you catch up with him, he has already picked a sandwich for himself and one for you. “I got you salmon, that’s your favorite, right?”

“Yeah, thanks!” you say a little breathlessly after your speed-walk, taken that he remembers.

As you finally get to the cash register and start loading your stuff in your bag you see Benny sneak one more candy bar among the rest of your purchases. For someone in such good physical shape he sure does like his candy.

“Where to next?” Benny inquires as you get back to the car.

“Hmm, how about this one waterfront type swimming spot? It’s pretty secluded, has a pier, and there’s a nice view to the sea. I sometimes like to sit there on the cliffs to watch the sun go down,” you suggest, and offer him directions to the place.

It’s a short drive and you show Benny where to park his car. Even though it’s somewhere around 1 a.m. and the sun went down hours ago, the night is still light enough that you can easily see where you’re going and it doesn’t feel like you’re just sitting in the dark.

You settle down on the small pier with your sandwiches and sodas and chips and munch away happily.

Benny hands you the candy bar you saw him grab earlier at the cash register “for dessert”. It has a cheesy text on the packaging about giving this to someone special. He grins and shrugs, “I know you love these”.

It’s such a simple gesture but you can’t help feeling really flattered and even more smitten with him than you already were. You don’t read too much into the text on the packaging, but even the fact that he would buy you a candy bar he knows you love - just because - warms your heart.

(What you don’t know is that the candy bars have lots of different texts to choose from, and that Benny specifically picked “give this to someone special” instead of “give this to a friend”. There was also “give this to someone you love”, but Benny worried that might scare you off.)

--------

After you’re both done with snacking you try to think of what to do next, still reluctant to pronounce this night to be over, you get an idea.

“You know what I would really like to do right now?” you ask Benny, looking out over the water that looks so tempting. “Go swim,” you announce, turning to look at him.

“You don’t have a swimsuit with you, do you?” Benny asks, turning to look at you too.

“No… But there’s no one here,” you point out with your eyebrows raised in challenge.

Benny looks at you for a few beats with a blank expression on his face, before shrugging “Alright,” and throwing off his hoodie and t-shirt, jeans following next. “What are you waiting for?” he shouts over his shoulder as he jumps from the pier into the water.

You’re left sitting there with your mouth open, blinking rapidly as you try to catch up with the fast turn of events. Shaking your head, you stand up and shrug off your clothes before quickly running after Benny and getting into the refreshing water.

The night is still warm, and the water feels wonderful. You swim to catch up with Benny.

“You know, it’s pretty dark here but I’ve basically seen you naked now,” he remarks, waggling his eyebrows, and you snort with laughter.

“Benny, you’re not allowed to make me laugh in the water or I’ll drown,” you try to say sternly.

“Oh sweetheart, I wouldn’t let you drown,” he answers in a surprisingly serious voice.

Suddenly the energy between you is full of.. something. Something new and buzzing, sort of scary but also exciting. Something you can’t quite explain. You’re swimming around each other, looking at each other intently, but not daring to say anything that would break the moment and burst the bubble.

Someone else does that for you.

A couple of teenage girls, you’d guess around 18 years old, stumble on to the pier and immediately notice you two in the water. The other girl lets out a shriek and tightens her hold on the towel around her, and before you can even try to reassure them that everything is fine, they run off giggling and shrieking some more. Evidently, they had had the same idea for a nighttime swim but found the place already occupied.

“Yeahhhh, maybe we should put some clothes on before someone calls the police,” Benny suggests dryly.

You two climb out of the water giggling and grinning broadly. You don’t have any towels with you since you didn’t exactly plan this impromptu skinny-dipping session, but Benny gives you his hoodie to help keep you warm.

Sitting back down next to Benny you’re even closer together now than earlier, ever so slowly inching closer and closer to each other. Both of you think you could pass it off as huddling for warmth if the other were to question it, but somehow you know that won’t be an issue.

Soon enough you’re snuggling together on the waterfront overlooking the sea. You stay quietly like that for some time, maybe fifteen minutes, maybe more. It’s hard to tell when the world is so still and quiet around you.

Suddenly you think that this is it, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. In all honesty you sort of enjoy the pining stage of new relationships, but right now you feel like you might burst if you keep these feelings inside you any longer.

You turn and burrow your head into the crook of his neck and decide that you will have to take the leap now. You start pressing gentle kisses on his neck and hear Benny’s breath hitch at the first contact of your lips on his skin. He goes still as a statue, but you can feel more than hear his unsteady breathing at your actions. You’re practically vibrating with nervous excitement as you work your way up to his jaw and towards his lips.

Taking one final deep breath you close your eyes, not daring to look at Benny in the eye right now, as you bring your lips to meet his.

The kiss is sweet and unhurried, and yet your head is swimming and your whole body is buzzing with it as you melt into each other. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever felt, which just proves that everything really is different - better - with Benny. You pull away when you find yourself quickly out of breath just from feeling so much.

You finally dare to open your eyes to find Benny gazing at you with a dazed expression that surely mirrors your own and you slowly beam at each other, not feeling the need for words just now. Maybe you couldn’t even find them if you tried.

You settle back against his chest and the two of you stay like that for the rest of the night, sometimes spending long moments just kissing each other, sometimes talking quietly, sometimes just enjoying each other’s presence.

--------

Around five in the morning, when the sun is already getting up, you finally start to really feel the need for sleep. But this time it doesn’t feel wrong to leave and go home, since you’ll be going home together.

Later that day you wake up to a good morning, sweetheart in Benny’s arms where you fell asleep on his couch, tired but happier than you’ve ever felt in your life.

#benny miller fanfiction #benny miller x reader #benny miller x gn!reader #benny miller x you #triple frontier fanfiction #i still don't know what i'm doing #i accidentally wrote something #writer wednesday #garrett hedlund fanfiction

151 notes · View notes

blackhakumen · 3 years ago

Text

Mini Fanfic #977: Bachelor's Fishing Day (Sonic)

6:34 p.m. at Emerald Park Lake......

Sonic: (Seating on the Boat With the Rest of Fellas, Holding his Fishing Pole in a Bored Expression) So this is what we're doing for your bachelor celebration.....fishing......

Vector: Yep. (Smiles Sheepishly While Rubbing his Head Back and Forth with One Habd And Using the Other to Fish) I....couldn't really think of anything else for us to do beforehand, so I figured "Hey! What better way to celebrate my inevitable fate as a husband then spending some quality fishing with the fellas?"........I mean, you guys HAVE fished before, right?

Sonic: Nope.

Shadow: Can't say that I have really.

Knuckles: I tried fishing with a spear for a hunting trip once. Didn't really make any progress though.

Omega: I too have very little knowledge of the skill of fishing. (Turns his Hand into Plasma Cannon) Should I proceed to use the cannon to capture our targets?

Vector: (Eyes Immediately Begins to Widened in Complete Shock) What!? (Quickly Waves his Hand in Protest at Omega) Nonnonono, Omega! We are NOT blasting this lake to kingdom come! (Turbs Back to his Fishing Spot) Fishing takes time and patience to catch the ones you're looking for. I mean, how you guys think Big was were able catch his so easily?....Speaking of which, where IS Big?

Knuckles: Yeah, I never really see him as much as of late.

Shadow: I saw him working at a café in town earlier this morning.

Knuckles: (Eyes Widened in Shock Along with Sonic) You're kidding.....

Sonic: He has a JOB now!?

Shadow: Yep. As a cash register I fact. It took me by surprise when I saw him at first, but I think it's nice to see him doing something more productive for once. Though, I do hope his pet frog doesn't try running off again.

Vector: ('Sigh') Agreed. I can't tell you how many times that guy kept calling my office number to help find that frog...... Think we should get him a leash and collar for his birthday or something?

Sonic: (Shrugs) There's no reason not to at this point. But enough about all of that. (Smirks at the Crocodile Beside Him) Tell us how it feels to be one step closer to being a married man~

Omega: (Smiles Brightly) Yes. I believe five "congratulations" are in order.

Vector: (Smiles Back at Omega) Thanks, big guy. And I'm excited about it already! All I need to do finish up my vows and I'm all set!....(Smile Begins to Turn into a Sheepish One) B-By the way, you....guys wouldn't happen to know anything about writing vows, do you?

Everyone: Nope/Negative.

Vector: (Instantly Puts on a Deadpinned Look on his Face) Shit. Guess I'm gonna have to start brain storming again tonight......

Knuckles: (Gives Vector a Reassuring Smile While Patting him On the Back) Hey, don't sweat it. I'm sure it'll come out to best vow ever.

Vector: ('Scoffs') I doubt that, but here's to hoping that it comes to tuition I guess.... (Turns Back to the Sunset While Smiling) But still, I can't believe I'm finally marrying the woman of my dreams....I wish my dad was still here to see this....

Sonic: We never hear you talk about him or your mom before.

Vector: Yeah, well....I never knew who my mother was growing up, so my dad was the one who raised me through it all. (Smiles Fondly at the Memories He Shared With his Father) He can be a real stick in the mud at times, but he's still a good man all around, even helped made me grow up to be the man I am today. Hell, he was practically the only friend I had before I met you guys.

Shadow: So.....what happened to him..... if you don't mind us asking.

Everyone: (Nodded in Agreement)

Vector: (Starts Frowning at the Question) He.....('Sigh') Died from a stroke.....Right after I graduated high school nonetheless......

Sonic: (Eyes Begins to Widened in Complete Shock Along With Everyone Else) Seriously?

Vector: Yeah.......He's been working at the factory for years now, so it wasn't too surprising to hear that stress and heartache from that alone might've caused it to happen. And that day happened all so fast too. The rush to hospital.....another rush to emergency room after that. And even then, it was still too let to save him...(Chuckles Very Lightly) I remember all the times he kept pestering me to marry someone and give him grandkids. And I always tell him "Dad! Cool it with that already. I'm not even close to being popular yet!" And then he look at me in the eyes and said....."Son, I know you'll find yourself a damn good woman for you to love one of these days. Cause popular or not, you're Vector D. Crocodile, my smart, knucklehead of a son....(Tears Starts Falling Down From his Eyes) ('Sniff') And.....I'll always be proud of you.....('Sniff') no matter what the future have in store for you......"

Knuckles: Vector.....

Vector: (Quickly Turns Back to Everyone With a Sheepish, Yet Teary Smile on his Face) S-Sorry! ('Sniff') Didn't mean to bring all the waterworks here. ('Sniff') It's been a while since I thought about him, so- (Felt Shadow's Hand on his Shoulder)

Shadow: Hey, you have nothing to apologize for.

Sonic: Shadow's right, man. We all know how it feels to lose someone who's close to us. There's no shame to cry about it every now and then.

Vector: ('Sniff') Yeah. ('Sniff') You're absolutely right. It just.....Times like this that I..... wish he was still here, you know?

Omega: This is the first that I've heard of your father. (Place his Hand in his Mest Chest) But I believe that your memory of him and his legacy will still lives on inside your cardiac muscle, for a very long time.

Vector: (Chuckles Light and Wholeheartedly) Right. (Starts Wiping his Tears Away) Like I'll ever forget about him that easily. He'll probably haunt me in my dreams for doing that.

Knuckles: So you're gonna be alright now?

Vector: ('Sigh') Yeah....I mean, it sucks not having him around anymore, but....(Smiles Softly at the Fellas) At least I'm not alone anymore, am I right?

Sonic: (Happily Nodded in Agreement) Right!

Knuckles: (Smiles Softly) Definitely.

Shadow: (Nodded With a Small Smile on his Face) Mmhm.

Omega: (Smiles Brightly) Affirma-

'Ribbit'

Omega: -tive?

Everyone looks Down to see a very familiar frog standing in the middle of the boat, much ti their surprise.

Sonic: Froggy, when the heck did you get here?

Froggy: .....'Ribbit'

Vector: Wh- (Eyes Begins to Widened at the Realization) Wait. If you're here, then that means-

Big: (Belly Flopping Towards the Boat) FROOOOGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGY!

Vector: (Looks Up at the Big Purple Cat Falling Down in Grimace) Oh hell-

'SPLAAAAAAAAAAASH'

With one loud splash, the boat itself was broken into smaller pieces. It wasn't long for everyone to swim back up to surface (Sonic shakingly holding onto to the top of Omega's Head to Dear Life) along with Big and Froggy himself.

Big: (Happily Hoids Up Amphibian Friend) Froggy!~ I found you!~

Froggy: 'Riiiiiiiibbt'

Big: (Chuckles Lightly) Oho you little troublemaker. You had me worried sick. Come on. (Happy Swims Away) Let's go get something tasty to eat.

Froggy: 'Ribbit'

Vector: ..............That's it. We are DEFINITELY getting him that leash tomorrow.

Knuckles: Yep.

Shadow: Uh-huh.

Omega: Does anyone wants to go out for pizza?

Vector: ('Sigh Heavily') Yeah........I can really go for that right about now.

@keyenuta

@rechicken-and-waffles

@cyber-wildcat

@caleb13frede

@26shann

@ma-lemons

@albion-93

@naruisahehimlesbian

#sonic series #vector the crocodile #sonic the hedgehog #knuckles the echidna #shadow the hedgehog #e 123 omega #big the cat #froggy #fishing #bachelor celebration #humor #vanilla x vector #hurt/comfort #tragedy #vector and vanilla wedding adventures #edited

9 notes · View notes

imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl · 4 years ago

Text

Love On-Set (Pt. 01 of 10)

Pairing: Dacre Montgomery X Reader

Word count: 3K

Next part (02) ->

Summary: You knew acting on Stranger Things season 3 would be a challenge, and you also knew, from the start, you'd have to work closely with Dacre Montgomery. But is wasn't a big deal for you, since this is your job and you're determined to act professionally. You had it all figured out, or so you thought, until the moment you were out face to face with Dacre. Then, this job became a lot harder than it was supposed to be, since you can't seem to focus whenever you're around Dacre. And you'll have to be around him a lot until the end of production.

{Dacre Montgomery Masterlist}

{Stranger Things Masterlist}

First Sight

The minivan stops right before entering the set as the driver speaks with one of the security guards. A huge structure was built around the area, and if it wasn't for the strong lights, you'd be in complete darkness. It's late at night, but yet, there are some journalists and a lot of cameras. They immediately surround the car, trying to see who's inside.

“Vicki, do you think I should go out and talk to them?” You decide to ask her first, because you're not as known as the other actors, and you're not sure if they'd want to talk to you.

“Sure. But don't take long.” She nods, touching the drive's shoulder and telling him to wait.

Taking a deep breath, you push the door open, a smile on your face as the cameras quickly find you. Running a hand through your hair, to make sure it's not messed up, you take in all the microphones and smartphones pointed at your face.

“(Y/N), could you answer some questions?” A short, dark-haired guy asks, a camera flashing.

“It depends on the question, but I'll try my best.” This seems to please them, and you wonder if the others couldn't afford a few minutes.

“Your posted on your Instagram account that you were a Stranger Things fan from season one.” A woman asks. “How was the transition from being a fan to acting on the show?”

“It was fantastic.” The first season of the show was still driving people crazy when you got the call for an audition for the role of Amy Whitehall, for seasons two and three. Vicky, you have no idea how, got in touch with some friends when she heard they were searching of someone with physical traits similar to yours. Thankfully, the audition went well and you got the job. “It's an honor to be part of this masterpiece. The only bad part is that now I have some spoilers.”

“Your character's scene by the end of season two had any interaction with Billy Hargrove, Hawking's bad boy. Does that mean she'll be in any kind of relationship with him?”

For that, you have to think, careful not to say anything that will expose the plot.

People are very interested in Billy, not sure exactly where the character will go from now on, after his introduction on season two. He stole many hearts, for love or hate, dividing opinions. And your character had a short appearance by very end of the last episode, shown in an interaction with him. On her way to the ball, to help Nancy, Billy almost runs her over with his car, after dropping his sister. They had a small dialogue, him asking her to get out of the way and her telling him to look where he was going. Then a pause, a little bit of tension, and that was it.

“I'm not allowed to answer that, but Amy's scene was just an introduction. Her character will be around throughout season three.” Offering another smile, you turn around, giving attention to someone else.

“What will be a new threat? The season finale raised a lot of questions about–”

“Excuse me, excuse me.” Vicky pokes her head out, a hand raised. “I'm sorry, but we have to get going.”

“Aright.” You mumble. “Thank you, guys. Bye.” Politely, you wave at the reporters before going back into the van.

You're soon moving again, leaving the entrance behind and driving in darkness for some minutes before more lights come into your sight until they're all around you. The set was built around a piece of the road, where you already shot earlier this week.

“C'mon, (Y/N). Hair and make-up." Vicky urgers, stepping out of the van with you.

You easily find your way around the set, chatting with people as they do your hair and put the makeup on. There will be a tiny cut above your left eyebrow, and Ron, the guy who always take care of the fake wounds around here, takes only fifteen minutes to get it done. Once you're ready, Vicky guides you to the filming area, and you sit on your chair a few feet away, under one of the many huge tents scattered around the place.

“Hi.” Someone says, and you abruptly look up from your phone, finding your co-star. The only co-star of the day, Dacre. He's already full Billy, with the mullet wig and the leather jacket. “I didn't mean to startle you. Just thought I'd come to say hello before the scene.”

You haven't properly spoken to Dacre. The single scene you made was quick, one of the last, and the set was a mess. So you didn't have the chance to talk, and ever since, you haven't crossed paths with him. But today's scene is all about your characters. Amy's first appearance on season three will have her running from something in the woods, the Mind Flayer, and she crashes her car on Billy's, while he's on the way to meet Mrs. Wheeler. That's it for today, their first meeting.

“Hi.” Smiling back, you shake his hand. “I'm (Y/N).” You decide to remind him.

“I know.” He simply says. “Do you want to go over the lines before the real thing?”

He has such a nice voice, it's impressive. You've watched some of his movies, and he's really good. It's not like you haven't acted before, but nothing so important or famous as Stranger Things. You can't help but be a little nervous. “Sure.” Blocking your phone, you stand up, leaving it on your seat.

“Alright. Let's–”

“(Y/N)! Dacre! It's time, c'mon!” The director calls, cutting you off.

“Guess we'll go straight to the real thing,” Dacre says as you start making your way to where the cars are positioned.

Billy's Camaro and Amy's light green Toyota are placed a few inches apart, the front part already wrecked and a light smoke coming off from under the hood.

“The mechanism will push the cars on each other and the rest you already know.” Your stylist comes to check on you one last time, making sure everything is perfect. When she steps away, you get inside the car.

A few days ago you shot Amy's way over here, driving insanely fast, running from the shadows creeping. Most of the scenes where Amy will be alone were already made since there weren't many. She will be around the others a lot, as the events are unrevealed.

Once you're in the car, you take your time to get into character, ignoring the orders being yelled outside. The lights are turned off, and the road before you is almost completely dark.

“Let's get it started, everyone!” The director shouts. “Action!”

At his command, the car jerks forward.

Letting your head fall on the wheel, you breathe fast, wide eyes acknowledging what just happened, the crash, the smoke, the other car that collided with yours. Looking over your shoulder, you imagine, you picture it coming, moving through the threes, growing closer.

“What the hell!” The voice yells as you try to make your car start again, uselessly. “You could've killed me!”

“Damn it.” Cursing under your breath, overcome by terror, you step out of the car, running around it and into the other one, which is still working, opening the passenger door and rushing inside.

“What do you think you're doing? Get the hell out of my car!” Dacre shouts at your face, in Billy's voice, a little deeper.

“There's something in the woods!” You yell, looking through the rear windshield. “It's coming!”

“Are you crazy or something?! You almost wrecked my car!” As he speaks, you imagine it once again, the tentacles coming from the sky, taking over the road behind you.

Then you grab his arm, squeezing the muscle underneath the jacket. He's in the middle of a sentence when he looks back too, immediately going silent as he's eyes meet the same inexistent thing you're seeing.

“What the–”

“Drive!” You burst out, and the car starts moving.

“Cut!” The director's voice reaches both of you and Dacre hits the brakes.

Relaxing, you let go of his arm.

“That was great, but I want another take. Ryan, turn those lights down.”

The scene is repeated three more times, with different lighting until they finally decide it's perfect. Then the whole set starts moving to the next scene, which is the sequence to what just played out. It'll be shot in a street Northeast from the road, and since it'll play out from the Camaro, you're told to stay in the car as Dacre drives there, following the other cars.

“You did well back there,” Dacre says as you move, taking a different turn from the other cars to reach your mark. The street has a few small houses on one side, which will have their lights on and some people moving inside and on their balconies, and tall threes on the other.

“You too. Hope I didn't hurt your arm, but Amy was terrified.” Shrugging your shoulders, you smile to hear his giggle.

“I noticed.” He says. “But my arm will survive.”

Looking his way, you're able to have a good look at him now. It's a little dark, but you can take in his features. Dacre makes the mullet look good, which is impressive since you absolutely hate the hairstyle. But not on him. Clearing your throat, you look away. “Make sure it will. You'll need it.”

Dacre stops by the mark, everyone apparently already on their positions. “Things are about to get tense for Billy and Amy now.”

“First fight.” You say, taking a look at your outfit to make sure nothing is out of place. “Enemies to lovers is quite a good arch.”

“I like it too.”

“(Y/N). Dacre. Are you ready?” The director asks and both of you give him a thumbs up, hands off the window. The crew with the microphones and cameras are already positioned, ready for the scene. “Alright then. Ready... Action!”

Dacre moves the car forward, just enough to fake it as he hits the breaks. “What was that?” Billy asks, annoyed for some reason Amy wouldn't know.

“I don't know.” With a hand on your hair, shaking a little, you breathe fast, terrified. “Just take me home.”

“Now I gotta drive you home too?”

“Screw you.” The sudden outburst and the disgust in his voice makes you bolt out of the car, keeping in mind not to look at the cameras following you.

“Are you going to walk?” Billy yells, but you don't look back, walking fast, crossing your arms. “Wait.”

“Screw. You.”

“Don't be an idiot.” You roll your eyes when you notice he's coming closer. Dacre grabs your arm, forcing you to turn around. “Are you really going to walk home with that... Thing out there?”

You're confused at his change of moods, pushing your arm away. “Does it look like I have a choice? You just saw that–” You gesture at the threes on the other side of the road. “–and you still couldn't bring yourself to drive a lady home. You're such a gentleman.” Raising your voice, you put the same tone of disgust in your voice that you heard in his. The cameras move a little closer, and you know why. That's when the tension starts, when Amy stands up to Billy. Stepping forward, lifting your head to try and look him in the eye, you put a single finger in his chest. “You're far worse than what people say you are.” You don't get why his eyes make you nervous. Maybe this whole thing is more than you're used to, too big of a production for you after a few years away from the cameras. As much as Dacre's face being so close makes you feel funny, you gotta keep it cool, don't let it show. You're scared, terrified of a monster in the woods.

“Cut the bullshit and let's go.” He takes your arm again, but you refuse to follow him, standing your ground.

“Let go!” You struggle a bit on his grip, noticing how you actually need to act as if it's tighter than it really is. When he turns to face you again, as you struggle, his face comes close again, his eyes filled with Billy's annoyance.

“Get your butt–” Exactly in time, a crack reaches your ears, and both you and Dacre look at the woods with wide eyes, your breaths caught in your throats, unsure of what made that noise, but not excited to find out. “Let's get out of here.”

“Yeah.” You mumble, heading back into the car.

“And cut!” The director yells as soon as you close the door shut. “That was good, but I want another take. I want the same tension you both built on season 2, only now it's stronger, you're face to face. And Dacre, work this out because people need to be convinced Billy likes someone for something else than just fool around.”

You both nod, repeating the same thumbs-up gesture. Taking a deep breath you wait for the sign and starts moving, doing pretty much the same until you're both out of the car, but this time, when Dacre pulls your arm, you act as if the pull was stronger then it actually was, letting yourself collide against his chest before stepping away. “Are you really going to walk home with that... Thing out there?”

“Does it look like I have a choice? You just saw that and you still couldn't bring yourself to drive a lady home. You're such a gentleman.” Instead of just putting a finger on his chest, you push him away with both hands, not keeping the normal distance as doing so, and letting your eyes fall on his unbuttoned shirt for a couple of seconds before raising your them again. You feel the heat on your cheeks, and you know you're blushing. Checking him out was not the intention.

Dacre's eyes meet yours, and for a second they soften before the usual annoyance comes back. You wonder if he's trying to say something, give you a hint about something he wants to do, but you have no idea what it might be. “Cut the bullshit and let's go, princess.” The weight on the last word is different, lower, meant as in insult, an irony.

“Let go!” You whisper-yell, trying to pull away, but you stop when Dacre holds the other arm, trying to drag you to the car. His stare is intense, and the cameras move a little, coming closer, and you know they're focusing on your faces. “Let go.” You repeat, much lower this time, trying to put some distance between you and him, since your bodies are way too close already.

“Get your butt–” The crack again, the stare at the woods, and the sudden change of moods. Run now, fight later. “Let's get the hell out of here.”

Nodding in agreement, you give your arms one last push, and Drace's eyes come back to you as if remembering he was still holding you, finally releasing his grip. You both run to the car and the scene is over.

Despite saying it was perfect, the director wanted two more takes. He wants proximity, touching, anger mixed with a sudden, recently discovered passion from an unexpected connection at first sight. You're happy to hear that you did achieve that, not sure if it came from your skills or the funny feeling you had in your stomach through the scene. It's weird to have someone you basically just met so close, only inches away.

When it's all done, you take off the outfit and put your clothes back on after washing the make-up away. Then you wait for Vicky, leaning against the minivan, scrolling through your Instagram feed.

“Hi again.” You see Dacre approaching through the corner of your eyes, raising your head to look at him. “Have you checked in at the hotel yet?”

“Yes, just before coming here.” All the actors are staying at the same hotel, just so it's easier to gather everyone around when needed, and be sure of the time it gets for them to get on set.

“I came in my car. I can give you a ride there if you like.” As he speaks, you see Vicky coming, talking with the director. Which you still don't know the name yet.

“I came with Vicky, my agent.” Gesturing at her, you feel embarrassed to decline, and you hope Vicky will say something to help you out as she usually does. “Right, Vi?”

“Oh, no.” Waving her hand in a fast motion, she puts a lock of her blond hair behind her ear. “Remember what I told you? Make connections, friends. Don't stick with me during the whole production.” She reaches out her hand and Dacre politely shakes it. “I'm Victoria Klein. (Y/N)'s agent and her mother's oldest friend.”

“Dacre Montgomery.” He simply says.

“You may take her to the hotel. I have some things to do and she needs to rest. Long day tomorrow.”

You just watch as Vicky sets you up as if you're not even there to make your own call. But you're too shy to say anything else, to still refuse Dacre's kindness. “Ok then. See you, Vicky.”

“Have a good night.” She says after giving you a quick hug.

Silently, you follow Dacre through the set to the parking lot. His car is among several different trucks, some of them already leaving. “Nice car.” You tell him as you get into the passenger seat.

“It's rented.” Dacre turns the ignition and the car comes to life. “I can't be without a car. What if I need to go somewhere?”

“Fair enough.”

He drives through the huge set and you fall into a comfortable silence, not sure of that to say. It would help if you could see some kind of landscape or anything at all through the window. Then you wouldn't look like an idiot with eyes glued at nothing but darkness.

“Did you stop to speak to the journalists?” Dacre asks when you reach the exit, waving at one of the guards.

“Yes. You?”

“Yeah. What did they ask?”

“Spoilers.” Shrugging your shoulders, you give him a glance, and he does the same. “About Amy's and Billy's relationship. What can be expected after their meeting in the season finale.”

A low giggle escapes his lips. “Wait until they know.”

“But they will have to wait until next year.”

“You did well back there. You actually blushed. How did you do that?” He stops at the red light, and you feel when he looks at you. Running a hand through your hair, you meet his eyes.

You weren't trying to blush. You just did. “I'm a very good actress.” Giving him a sassy smirk, you see when his lips break into a smile. It's different from Billy's smile, he doesn't act like he's trying to hide some unknown meaning behind it.

“You sure are.” The red light turns green and you start moving again. “Uhm... There will be a kissing scene, you know.” Oh. The kissing scene. You read through it, of course, you just didn't give much thought about it. “Have you ever done a kissing scene?”

“No.” The answer is quick, you don't have to think much. “In my long list of three movies, in two of them my character didn't have any romantic interests and in the other one it was platonic.” Dacre had done it, you remember from some movie, not sure which one. Your mother insisted on watching some of his movies, just so you'd ‘get to know your co-star skills’ before actually having to work with him. But it's different. It's completely different watching a character on screen and then meeting the person behind it.

“Oh, ok. I hope I won't make you feel uncomfortable.”

“Don't worry about that.” You're a professional, and that's your job. It's just a kiss anyways, and the scene won't be shot any time soon. You'll have time to get used to the idea.

“I just think that since our characters arch is connected from now on, it would be good to get to know each other. It helps a lot when the co-stars are somehow friends.”

“Of course.” He has way more experience in this than you, so whatever he says, you agree.

When you get to the hotel, Dacre leaves his car on the underground parking lot, and, despite having his room key, he insists on accompanying you to the reception to get your card. Once you're in the elevator, you rest your back against the mirror, watching the numbers as they light up.

“We should exchange numbers,” Dacre says, turning to look at you. “In case some of us need to go through the lines or work on something.” He shrugs his shoulders, the light fabric of his white shirt moving. “It's a thing among us. You'll be invited to a lot of parties like that.”

“Sure.” Taking your phone off your pocket you unlock it and hand it over to him as he does the same. Quickly, you type your number and save if on his contacts list.

“That's my stop.” He says when you reach the 14th floor. “See you tomorrow.”

“Good night.” You mumble, waving at him as the elevator door closes again.

The first thing you do when you get to your room is kick off your shoes, already undressing to hit the shower before throwing yourself on bed. It's very late and you won't have many hours of sleep. You're halfway to the bathroom when you take your phone to put on some music. But you don't recognize the object in your hand. After a moment of confusion, you realize it's Dacre's phone.

“What now?” Stopping on your tracks, you start making the way back and gathering the clothes you left on the floor, putting them on again. Since you don't know the number of his room and knocking from door to door is ridiculous, you decide to call reception and just ask. But on your way to the landline they have near the couch, Dacre's phone starts ringing. You were wondering who would it be when you read your own name on the screen.

“Oh, hi.” You're quick to pick up. “I guess you have my phone.”

“Yeah, I got lucky it didn't lock, or else I'd have to call reception asking for your room.” His voice gets a lot darker through the phone. “Would you tell me which one is it? I'm already heading to your floor.”

“1703.” Already making your way to the door, you hear the soft beep of the elevator's doors opening.

“I'm almost there.” He's still speaking when he turns the corner, getting into your sight. You hang up, a shy smile on your face. “Sorry about that.” He hands you over your phone and you give him back his.

“It's alright. We're both tired.” You expect him to just say good night and leave, but he doesn't, shifting his weight from one leg to another.

“Have you met the others yet? Natalia, Joe, Millie...?”

“No, not yet.” You've heard they are very close, and you're the new girl in set. Saying you're nervous doesn't get anywhere close.

“I'm your only friend so far then.” Dacre states. “I'll break the ice with the others, don't worry.” He smiles again, and now, under the bright lights of the hotel hall, you can see his face perfectly. His blue eyes, a lot kinder then they were earlier today when he was Billy.

“Thanks. Guess I'll see you tomorrow then... Pool scenes.”

“Pool scenes.” He repeats. “I'll leave you to sleep now. Good night, (Y/N). Again.”

“Good night, Dacre.” Standing by the door, you watch as the walks away, towards the elevators.

You're about to head inside when, just before he turns around the corner, Dacre gives you one last look, a smile coming to his lips when his eyes meet yours.

@baker151910 @shinydixon @dreamin-of-dacre @hanoi15 @lickmymelanin @skykittysstuff

#dacre montgomery #imagine dacre montgomery #dacre montgomery imagine #dacre montgomery x reader #dacre x reader #dacre montgomery fanfiction #billy hargrove x reader #billy hargrove x y/n #imagine billy hargrove #billy stranger things #imagine stranger things #stranger things imagine

414 notes · View notes

morimakesfanart · 3 years ago

Text

Sindria's Prophet #16

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15]

[AO3]

~POV Sinbad~ Mori wasn't just a Prophet, she had immense knowledge of her own that was going to make Sindria untouchable. Sinbad was going to achieve his dream much sooner than he had ever imagined. Mori was special; intelligent, clever, capable, and she could read the waves of Fate. Was there any other woman as attractive? The unknown craving that had plagued him for the past week was placated. Delicious wine, beautiful women, delicious food -none of his normal pleasures had fulfilled whatever that feeling was, but for some reason this moment with the his Beautiful Prophet was. "And now you're *my* kind and generous King Sinbad, ... Right?" Mori's bashful confidence was always endearing, but hearing her call him 'my King' in person made something snap in him. They were in a corner and Mori is small; he could easily block view of her in case any of the magicians turned around. He wouldn't even have to lean that far to get a taste of her. "DO EITHER OF YOU Have an ounce of self awareness??” Ja'far popped the bubble that had formed around the two.

King Sinbad froze. Everyone in the room was watching them. Sinbad stood up straight. He shouldn't exactly continue his plans with an audience. He removed his hand from the window and crossed his arms. Yam was practically shaking the magician next to her. "I wasn't the only one to see it this time!” An older magician with a beard laughed and said something like 'to be young.' Another said something a long the lines of "So it's like that then." Ja'far was still grumbling about his King's behavior -he should know better by now, he promised he wouldn't, etc. but 1. Sinbad didn't do anything wrong, and 2. he said he knew what he was doing -he knew how to handle flirting with Mori; he never said anything about not flirting with her. "And you, Lady Prophet," Ja'far changed targets. 'Oh?' Sinbad didn't expect Mori to be reprimanded for his flirting -although, she did flirt back. Ja'far continued, "You said that you knew about Sin's habits so wouldn't fall for him or-" "AAAAAH" Yamuraiha yelled over the other General as she crossed the room as fast as she could, and clapped a hand over his mouth. She turned to the King and Prophet with wide eyes and a forced smile. "Your Majesty! Mori! Would you like to see the spell again with our new changes?!" She didn't let go of Ja'far. The group of magicians started supporting her suggestion with "Let us show you," "I'm sure we've got it this time," and reciting the changes to the formula. They were clearly trying to stop Ja'far from discouraging Mori. Sinbad had no idea why they suddenly decided to become his wingmen, but it was convenient for him since he planed to do more than flirt with her later. Mori walked up to the Generals, although she only addressed Yamuriaha. "Yes, please! Even if it's not perfect I'd like to see your progress!" She spoke with the same forced enthusiasm as Yam. Sinbad only got a glimpse before Mori's back was to him, but her face was definitely a brighter red than it had been a moment ago. She was getting better at flirting with him, but she couldn't hold her composure for long. The King laughed as the head magician practically body checked Ja'far out of her way and left him out of the group before they preformed the newly revised spell. This time it produced a mostly clear stone. It wasn't a high quality diamond, but they had done it. They would have to be careful with this though since it could lower the market value of whatever they make. As they figured out the specifics for every substance they needed, Sindria could become fully self sufficient -they would still deal in trade so as to not completely leave the rest of the world behind. It was amazing. His magicians were amazing for being able to figure this out in such a short time, and his Prophet was just as -if not even more- amazing for knowing all of this and being able to explain it to them. When the excitement around the magic spell died down they finally showed him the microscope. It was a prototype so they had to be gentle with it. Two pieces of glass with water squished between them were slid under and when Sinbad looked through the lenses he saw the strange small creatures that Mori had written about. Seeing them forced him to accept that what Mori wrote about 'germs' had to be true too -and those were even smaller than these things. Looking at those things squirming around and knowing they were everywhere made his skin crawl. The King stopped looking through the device. "They really are real." "Yup." Mori responded plainly. "And now that you all know and have proof. There's going to have to be a lot of changes. The way illnesses are handled is obvious, but there's going to have to be a lot more changes to how food and housing and things are handle to better maintain sanitary environments. I know a bunch of sanitation procedures so I can help there too." Ja'far was rubbing his temples. "This is going to be a logistical nightmare. Do you realize that we are going to have to fix all those things and get all Sindrians to understand without having it affect our production or

trade??" "It's not like we're doing this alone." Mori tried to comfort him. "We'll figure something out." The conversation moved to this new problem. His Beautiful Prophet really was something else. She had solutions to problems they didn't even know they had. Mori had a habit of using her hands whenever she talked -even more when she was excited. She was cute and deserved to know, but she was in the middle of helping his people so he would hold his tongue and just watch her. If Sinbad was honest, he had stopped listening to the conversation a while ago and was just looking for an opportunity to finally ask Mori -and Yam of course- if they would join him for dinner so he could get all of his Generals more aquatinted with her. Someone mentioned a specific scroll in one of the libraries. Before the whole group could drag Mori out of the room, King Sinbad raised a hand and got everyone's attention. "I know there's a lot to do, but I have some things to discuss with my Beautiful Prophet as well." Mori looked back at him. "What is it?” It seemed that nickname wasn't as affective as before -hopefully it was just the timing. "Is it something we can talk about here?” "I was thinking we could talk over dinner," Sinbad paused to see how she would respond to the implications. Mori's eyes widened and her shoulders tensed, and best of all that blush came back. "With all of my Generals, of course." Mori blushed harder realizing he was messing with her. Yam looked disappointed at first -his Generals cared way to much about him finding a wife- but then she looked content with being a part of the plan. "You might have met them, and know them from reading Fate but they still don't know you yet." He finished. Yam spoke first. "This is a great idea. Pisti was just telling me that she wanted to get to know Mori." Mori regained her composer. "I'd like to get to know everyone personally too, so I'm find with this." It was a roundabout way of saying 'yes.' Her blush was gone but she was still embarrassed. With that settled, Ja'far let Yam and Mori know when dinner would be ready. It was a little earlier than he normally ate but this would give them more time to mingle before they'd be completely out of sunlight. "Well then," the King turned to his Prophet, "since we have some time beforehand-" "OH no you don't!" Ja'far cut in. "You've already had a long enough break *and* you plan on ending early today? The least you can do is work your butt off until then." --- ~POV Mori~ The King was pushed out of the room by his right hand man. I had a mix of relief and longing watching him go. "You'll see his Majesty again soon." Yam had a sweet smile on her face, but I knew better than to trust it. All eyes were on me and they were no longer the eyes of academics; they were hungry for gossip. I was not ready to explain why shipping us was a bad idea. "So about that scroll you mentioned earlier..." I completely shifted conversation back to the eventual rebuilding effort and luckily one of them obliged me.

I was lead to one of the libraries and handed a few scrolls on the construction used in the country. I had read a little on ancient construction methods out of interest and some on modern methods since my uncle worked in the industry. I had a little bit of experience with construction when I worked at a community theater, but it wouldn't be anything the people here wouldn't know. That paired with these documents showing how magic was used in the process made what little I did know completely useless. 'Can't know everything I guess.' I turned my head up towards the ceiling. I wasn't sure how much time I had left and I decided to use it soaking up the ambience of the library. The smell of paper, the maze-esc layouts, the quiet feeling; it's like a gentle space separate from the rest of the world. The libraries of the Black Libra Tower also had huge windows to let in a ton of natural lighting. I was really going to enjoy working in this place. --- Yam and I ended up lost in conversation, so someone ended up being sent to bring us to the dinner. When we finally arrived and opened the doors to the dining hall my nose was filled with the smell of herbs and delicious food. This was my first meal that wasn't paired with bitter medicine. I might have been procrastinating subconsciously to avoid the medicine I was no longer taking. Everyone was already there chatting. The long table was covered with food, but I couldn't make out any of it from the door. King Sinbad was sitting at the head of the table at the other end of the room with a goblet in his hand. Yamuraiha started in ahead of me and called into the room. "I'm sorry we're so late! We were talking about magical proofs and," she rambled in her explanation. I heard a few comments of congrats for getting better and said "Thanks" reflexively more than consciously. As I got closer, I ignored the Generals at the table to look at the spread. There were a few different types of fish, meat of some kind, a bunch of vegetables, and bread. It brought tears to my eyes; It was so beautiful. The Imuchukk laughed at my obvious interest in the food. "What are you waiting for? There plenty for everyone." He was sitting closest to the door. I didn't look away from the food when I answered. "I'm small with a small stomach so I'm going to need to pace myself to be able to eat a little of everything. If I save the best for last like I normally do then I might not even get to eat it." That garnered laughs and comments. I ignored them; I was too busy weighing my options. As the guest of honor I was placed at the opposite end of the table from King Sinbad. Thank goodness, because I didn't think I could handle being super close to him all evening. Even with the direct line of sight, I had distance to protect me. Yam sat on the other side of Hina from me. Pisti was on my other side. Sharrkan was across from Yam. Spartos was between Yam and Ja'far. Drakon was across from Ja'far. And Masrur was between Drakon and Sharrkan.

I picked up my plate to get food. "Alright. I've decided to just grab my favorites. If I have room later then so be it!" I was used to being watched while I eat so their stares didn't bother me. I covered my plate in all of the types of fish and some vegetables. "I take it you like fish?" Sinbad asked while I was taking some of the fish that was on his end of the table. "It's my favorite!" I answered excitedly. I could tell as I placed the grilled fish on my plate that it was going to be heavenly. It was already flaking and letting the smell reach me faster. I couldn't wait to get back to my seat and took a bite of the fish. It melted in my mouth. I let out a squeak of approval as I grabbed another bite. After a moment Sinbad asked me another question. "What do you think of greasy foods?" It felt pointed. "I'll eat it if it's the only option, but I'm not a fan." The Generals made some comments that amounted to, "They have the same taste." I was too busy enjoying my food to think about what they were saying. Pisti asked me her own pointed question as I sat down. "Do you like alcohol?" They were comparing me to Sinbad. I suddenly remembered the Official Character Encyclopedia. According to it, Sinbad's favorite food was fish, his least favorite was greasy, and his favorite snacks were the types that paired well with alcohol. "I'm not a big drinker, but it's not like I dislike alcohol. I'm just allergic to sulfites." "Huh?" The group asked in unison. Time to explain one of my allergies again. "Sulfites are a very useful preservative so it was also added to a lot of foods back home including alcohol. All grape wines produce sulfites naturally. When I ingest about 2 shots of a drink that contains sulfites I will struggle to breathe for about an hour." As soon as the words were out of my mouth, the goblet of wine I didn't realize was in front of me was grabbed by Hinahoho. They all looked panicked at each other like they had just dodged a bullet. In an attempt to relieve the tension, Sinbad asked Yam to catch everyone up on the meeting from earlier. Yam started ranting about the progress we had made with the alchemy magic. While they focused on reclaiming the mood, I focused on the delicious food. I tried a root vegetable on my plate. It was a little earthy with a subtle sweetness. The seasoning added to the sweet, but also had a little spice similar to cracked pepper. It had been streamed so it wasn't crunchy. I was asked to repeated what I told Sin and Ja'far earlier about the tech of home, Their questions had me explain more about my world and many of the things I had done: volunteer work to get scholarships, marketing for some networking organizations and some other companies, an assistant and teacher in out of school programs for 6 years while also working at a theater to pay for my own education. I only mentioned some of the places I had traveled to. I didn't even get to the things I did as hobbies or in working toward my dream of being a full time writer&artist. "I'm surprised by how much you say you've done." Drakon commented. I had heard similar before when talking about my past. "Is it really that shocking? Considering my age, I think it makes sense for me to have done a bit." It's more shocking that I was doing all that while getting so sick from my chronic illnesses that I would be fully bedridden and need a machine to breathe at least once a year until I turned 15. But I had also ate up inspiration porn as a child as a motivation to not let my body hold me back if I could. "Aren't we around the same age?" Yam asked me in response. I laughed. "Do I look 23 to you?" I've been mistaken for much younger than I actually was for as long as I could remember. It 1st became a problem when I turned 18 and got told I was clearly 12 with a fake ID when trying to buy an M rate game (Devil May Cry btw). "You're not?” ”Nope.” I rested my elbows on the table, interlocked my fingers, and I placed my chin on top with a smile, "But I'm curious how old you all think I am now." At 25 I was mistaken for a 14

year old. At least, a few months back someone thought I was legal (they guessed 19). Most realized I had to be older the more they talked to me, but their impressions never fully dissipated. As frustrating as it was, I found amusement in times like this by turning my age into a guessing game. Sharkkan had the face of someone fearing they had hit on someone too young. "You are at least 20, right?” They all suddenly looked worried. "I'm definitely older than 20." I answered. Pisti laughed. She was also short with a baby face; she knew my struggle. "Maybe she's older than Ja'far!” Of course she would make the closest guess. "There's no way she's older than me." Ja'far scoffed. "I am older than 25 though.” I could have teased him but I held my tongue since he already seemed annoyed with me. "How old are you then?” Hina asked. "I'm 29.” I smiled at everyone's surprise. I might only have surface levels similarities to Sinbad, but when you're a simp for a fictional character does that really matter? "I was born on April 7th so I should only be 5 days younger than King Sinbad since he was born on the 2nd. However, I don't know if there's a time dilation between my world and this one. The day we met was Oct 3rd for me back home. It wasn't the same date here, was it?" Sinbad is 29, Ja'far is 25, and Masrur is 20 during the Balbadd arc; their 2nd set of ages are 30, 26, and 21 respectfully. Ja'far's birthday is Aug 30th and Masrur's is Dec 27. Those 2nd ages listed can't be for right after the 6 month time skip because no matter how you calculate it the shortest distance between those 3 birthdays is 8 months. I was really interested in how the current arbiter of this world was going to figure this out. "It was Oct 3rd here too." "Oh. Well, that's convenient," was what I said while my thoughts were cursing the arbiter. 'That lazy son of a bitch synced the worlds so they wouldn't have to deal with a time dilation. I can feel it. Hold on... I arrived on Oct 3rd; the coup was 4 days later on the 7th. 6 months later would mean Sinbad arrives back in Sindria on my birthday. Did some 'real me' somewhere plan a b-day present for myself in some self-indulgent fanfiction??' ((Yes. Yes, I did UwU & I plan on making Mori panic then too.)) King Sinbad had that smile on his face that told me he was ready to flirt. "I didn't realize we were so close in age." No colors got in my way when he talked. That was good. I was desensitized again, and wouldn't have to deal with unnecessary distractions. I couldn't tease Ja'far, but I could tease his Majesty. "I know, right? It's amazing what the difference of 5 days can do for one's complexion." Sinbad froze and his expression went blank. Something that was probably wine sprayed across the table as Sharkkan had a spit take before erupting into laughter with Hinahoho and Pisti. "Oh my" Yam murmured with a hand over her mouth. Drakon , Spartos, and Ja'far stared at me in disbelief. Sinbad still wasn't responding... Maybe teasing him about his age was a bad idea. So far, unless it was something important I flirted with Sinbad since that was the best way to get on his good side; hearing something like this from me must have hurt a bit extra. I had been so wrapped up in my thoughts that I forgot just how sensitive he was about his age. I ended up flailing my hands from nerves, and to get his attention. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that when I know how self conscious you are." He flinched. "I don't know if this will make you feel any better, but you won't look any older than you do now 5 years from now..." "I uh.. Is that so?" Sinbad asked as he started to regain himself. "It is. You'll be just as-” "If you're willing to talk about the future, does that mean you are finally ready to explain about those calamities you mentioned in Balbadd?" Ja'far cut in with a fierce look. He had been waiting for any mention of the future to bring this up. The King spoke with a gentle but stern tone. "I don't know if this is the time for that conversation. This is Mori's first meal with

everyone after all." "I'm fine. I made a promise and I intend to keep it. As long as everyone else is willing to talk seriously for a few mins, I don't see the problem." I had been avoiding this conversation for long enough. There were things I still planned to keep secret, but I couldn't avoid having this conversation forever. And besides, I could feel in the waves that Ja'far wasn't going to let this night end unless I explained some of it. ((I have the next 3 chapters written but it's going to take me a bit to draw all of illustrations & comics. Also, good luck to all the students reading this. I know classes are starting up again. Be safe out there.))

#magi prophet fanfic #sinbad x oc #magi sinbad x oc #king sinbad #sinbad magi #magi fanfic #magi sinbad #yamuraiha

33 notes · View notes

silverrstarrr · 4 years ago

Text

Normal girl (2)

Note: i just edit this chapter a bit and added more dialog. Someone messaged me and helped me out with a few things, thank you!

Chapter 2:

Walking side by side down the stairs, you took a sip of your coffee and place your herd of keys the side of your book bag. yume was scrolling through her phone on tik tok, drinking from her coconut Carmel ice coffee. You didn't understand why she was drinking ice coffee in mid February, it was cold. It was surprising their wasn't any snow.

Grinning like an idiot, she shaked your shoulder, positioning her phone in front of you–you both watched the tik tok. You didn't laugh at first only smiling, yume kept gesturing you to keep watching, waiting for the punchline. Finally it came up and you both started laughing, you slowly shaked your head placing your hand over your mouth.

"NOOO, nooo. That was so wrong, yall are going to hellll" you whined out.

Yume wiped the tears from her face and continued down the last step. She opened up the door and slid out, you trialing behind her. You both proceeded to walk down the street, where all the park cars were out.

"We riding in rich today girlie, jump in," she lifted up her arm that held her drink, her other reached into her purse and grabbed her car keys.

"I thought we were gonna walk there? It's only 10 minutes." You headed towards her car as she unlocked it and sat in the driver's seat. She had a 2018 dark Grey Nissan altima. You remember her having this ever since junior year, you recalled her talking about getting a newer model since this one was old. Like girl what? Old your ass, if the car still functioning there ain't no problem. White people shit, man.

"Well, it's the first day of sweet college life," she dragged out the last few words, adding a sarcastic tone. Yume tossed her bag in the backseat through the open space from the front, She dropped her drink in the little cup holder as well. Catching up with her, you open the backseat's door and chucked your bag in there–immediately closing it after. You pull the passengers door open and sat down, closing it behind you. Yume did the same–letting out a large sigh as she used her long sleeve to rub her legs, which were freezing.

"Bruh, you were just cold. Shouldn't have wore that skirt knowing it was this cold. Your mother would be disappointed," you moved your head side ways, pretending to be disappointed. You dropped your dunkin' drink in the other cup holder next to hers.

"Y/n, shut upp." Rolling her eyes jokingly, She grabbed the buckled next to her seat and puts it on. You placed your seat belt on too. Automatically, her phone connected to the car, you check over at the screen in the middle. It had the time, the degrees outside and all that other fancy things.

"Wanna play something?" she inserted the keys into the ignition and started the car.

"Yeah, I'll type it in,"

You grabbed her phone, showing the screen to her to unlock it, automatically recognizing her face– the lock screen slid up, revealing all her apps. You went to spotify and played "C U Girl" by Steve lacy.

"OKAAYYY, MS. INDIE TIK TOKER." Yume said nodding her, jamming to song. It was only going to be a 5 minute drive, or 7 if you guys couldn't find parking. She swerved to the left, leaving her parking space and pulling off. You whipped out your phone and paused your music, rapidly switching to snapchat–you heard yume's loud singing.

"I WANNA SEE YOU GUURRLL, I WANNA PLEASE YOU GIRL....GO AHEAD AND BE YOUR GIRL," This girl was jamming her out heart out, steve lacy was her favorite along with Brent faiyaz and many others.

In response, you started cackling as you hit the record button—swiftly turning over it to the driver. Her black ponytail moving as she sang and motioning her head in all different directions. Eyeing towards your direction she sees the phone and leans towards the camera flashing a smile, moving her head side to side—still singing through the lyrics. Yume returned back to the road as she lightly taps the steering, avoiding the horn of course.

Once the quick little vid was done, you added a caption,

"I swear if we crash😭😭💕"

Your thumb jolted between posting it on your private or public. You decided to post on the public story because why not? The song was over pretty quickly as the next one played.

"Who knew white people had rhythm?!" It was obviously sarcasm. You knew she was half Asian but it was fun always calling out her white side.

"Naaahh, white people don't have any rhythm. What you saw there was my miki matsubara pop out". She eases down her breaks– the traffic light turns red. Miki Matsubara? Oh yeah, it's that woman who sung "stay with me". It was a good song, you were obsessed with the chorus mostly.

You giggled a bit at her remark, you checked your socials once again.

"If this light doesn-" Yume sentence was cut off by the light turning green. She pressed her foot on the gas and carried on with attending class.

~~~

Pulling up to the parking lot, yume leaned towards her wheel, searching for a place to park. She slowly went down each isle searching for a vacant lot she could snag. You had your drink in between your lips, you took the last sip and shook the plastic cup trying to get a little more. All you heard was ice rattling against one another, dropping the cup back in the holder. You peer out the window looking at the campus, there were a ton of kids, like a lot. Anxiety began spiking up through your veins, this really is the college life, huh? Maria University. It was a school for literally anything, it was one of the biggest universities in the country as well being highly diverse. Yume would be allll the way on the other side of campus while you're slightly in the middle.

"Uggghhh! I regret not leaving earlier, I don't see any open slots." She whined. This was her 2nd time driving around the parking lot looking for a space.

"I said we should walk but nahhh, you wanted to be lazy and take the car." You rolled your eyes as yume, exaggerating, throwing your hands in the air. But you weren't going to be late on the first day. As the generous queen you are, you aided your roomie with looking a space to park. After analyzing for a few moments, you spotted a space and immediately tapped at the window, pointing towards it. Yume car swerved to the left, sliding right into the parking. Taking her keys out the hole, she grabbed her drink and headed out.

"No leaving trash in my car, miss L/n!"

You grabbed your plastic cup and opened the passenger door.

"Yes ma'am," you opened the backseat and grabbed the two bags and closed the door. Beep yume locked her car. She was sipping her coffee but gave a bitter expression when her sweet drink was watered down because of the ice. You looked at your phone, checking the time:

8:38 am

Monday, February 18th

38m ago

Kittykiller27, prettygirlnene liked your photo

45m ago

[Andyhas]: CRONA BECK started following you and 48 others.

Your phone was blowing up from insta notifications. It was time for class and you weren't sure how long it'll even take you to find your classroom. Slinging the bag over your shoulder, you handed yume her own, which she grabbed. You both were speed walking, despite her coffee being ruined she still continued to drink it. It was for the caffeine you guessed. Reaching the sidewalks, it was time to part ways. Yume turned her face towards yours pouting.

"We're leaving each other nooww," she stuck out her bottom lip staring at you. You grabbed her arm, pulling her closer to you. Her arms slithered around your waist, resting her chin on your shoulder–giving you a warm hug. You returned the hug by grunting and holding her tightly.

She started giggling and patted your back a few times, you released your grip and she started to jog in the other direction while looking back, waving at you. You waved back hollering a "BYEEEE!" A trash can was next to you so you dumped your empty dunkin' there.

It was now time for your own adventure, to find this damn classroom. You click the play button on your phone's lock screen, "baby powder by Jenevieve began playing. (Play the song whores👩🏾‍💻)

Walking downwards to the left side of campus, you searched for a pair of doors to go inside of. At this moment, you regretted not going to orientation. That day you were busy setting up your website for your makeup line. You haven't released any products yet, but you had plentiful of ideas and themes you wanted to do. Since it was black history month, maybe you'll drop something as simple as a face cream to help clear and brighten up the skin. But you discarded that thought because you weren't anywhere near ready to start your own small business. Plus, you had bigger things to worry about.

Standing in front of double doors, you grab the handles and pulled it back, you stepped inside while students behind you did the same. You came in slowly, admiring the interior. It was hella spacy with paintings and photos hanging along the walls. Students were roaming the hallways going back and forth from classrooms. Most of the students seemed to be in some sort of costume, or they were dressed fairly well like they were models. You didn't know the directions to your designated class, so you took up the courage to ask someone. You turned to search for someone who didn't seem busy, since most people were rushing to class. Finally you laid eyes on q girl leaning against the wall, typing on her phone. She had long pink acrylic nails, her blonde hair tied into a low ponytail, which complimented her pale skin tone. She had a gold nose piercing on the right nostril.

She seemed nice enough, so you decided to approach her.

"Um excuse me, do you know where Mr. Fargo's class is at?"

The blonde girl averted her eyes from her phone, now focusing on you.

"I'm not really sure—um, I believe it's down that way." She pointed to the right of her.

"Mr. Fargo, he's teaches cosmetic right?"

"Yeah," you replied

"Then I think it should be down there." She scrunched her face in a confusing manner, meaning not to take her word for granted. But you couldn't care less, it was worth a try.

"Ight, thank you." You bid her goodbye. Oop. You accidentally switched your lingo. You were used to speaking in AAVE but you knew how to change your tone and wordplay around others who weren't African American. The girl didn't seen to notice so you just continued down the hall.

"Down... here right..? Yeah this is the way," you murmured to yourself while you strut down the hall. Then turned left as the lady told you. You were now at a hall with multiple doors. Out of all them, you forget the most important, class started in five minutes. You looked to the left as your braids swayed with your movement, then searched to the right. You walked down the hallway, stopping at the fifth door on the left. You were hesitant with grabbing the door, you didn't want to make a fool of yourself walking into the wrong room as all eyes are on you. You pulled out your phone and texted yume.

(I did a different message format just in the previous was confusing)

colonizer but times 2🧑🏻‍🦲

I'm so lost, this is embarrassing.

Lost? What happened

Idk where my class is

& its starting in a few

You don't know where?? Bruh

Ask someone, im sure they'll help you

I did...but she didn't tell me

which class it was😭 all.

she said was "down the hall"

BYEE LMAOO

Uhh

Just open the door you think it is😋

UH- HUH🧏🏾‍♀️ YOU SETTING ME

UP FOR FAILURE.

Imagine going into the wrong class and

all you see are eyes 👁👁

Girl, half of the people won't even see you again on campus👩🏻‍🏫

If you don't recognize the teacher, try to ask a student close to the door for direction

Okay, im blaming you if I make a fool.

outta myself 😟

Read at 8:43 am

(Play quicksand by SZA rq 👩🏾‍💻)

You decided to take your roomie's advice and pick a class, which you already did.

You dropped your phone back into your jacket pocket and swung open the door–you were prepared for the stares. The classroom was vacant, not even a teacher in sight. Just a bunch of stools and white pull down screens. You saw a few cameras standing in front of these screens. "Was this the photography class or sum?" You mumbled to yourself.

And well, eyes were on you but it wasn't a herd as you expected, just one. Sitting on one of the stools in front of the door, was pale skin boy with long brown hair. It rested at his shoulders, some of it covering his face even. He seemed around 6ft, or 6 ft 2? You couldn't really tell since he was sitting.

He had on some black jeans with a black long sleeve sweatshirt as well with a beige greenish short sleeve unbutton shirt rested on top of it– a long golden key necklace dangled from his chest. His hands were sitting between his lap, you noticed sliver rings on them.(his outfit for people who need help visualizing) The teal eyed boy was also rocking black & white air Jordan 1 retro, literally the same as you.

You screamed internally at how fine this man looked and he had shoe gang? Uggghh. Class been started and you were going to be late on your first because this OBVIOUSLY wasn't your class. You decided to break the awkward silence and speak,

"Hey, um, is this Mr. Fargos class?" You stepped more into the classroom for the brunette male to hear you.

"Wrong one, babe. His class is in a totally different building." A different building?! You wanted to die right there and then, especially after hearing him laugh after his statement. Not just the wrong class but the wrong building? Bye–you're so stupid. His eyes scanned your body, his eyes lingered a bit longer at your shoes–it seems he noticed. A smirk appeared on his lips after finishing his quick outfit interrogation–wait, did he just call you-? I-, yes he did. You tried your best to hide your smile and not react.

"O-ooo, I got it. Thanks" Eren released a small chuckled seeing your reaction, he could tell you were caught up with the little pet name.

"I'll walk you over there." He got off his stool and walked towards your direction.

"I-, nah it's good, I got it." You said in defense not wanting to bother him. He didn't respond and just passed by you, exiting the classroom. He held onto the door, looking at you.

"You coming or no?" He was so nonchalant with it everything. You smiled a bit and walked out the class alongside with him. He released his grip once you were out and started trialing behind you.

You paused for a moment because you didn't know where you were going. You turned back to look at him, he caught on and let out an "ah". He quickly got in front of you as you proceeded behind him.

"So," he said.

"What?" You replied. Why did he start a sentence and not finish it? Was he expecting you to start the conversation, weirdo. You just wanted to get to class l.

"Oo, sassy are we?" He raised a brow.

"What—? boy, say what you wanna say."

Once again, he let out a chuckle, flashing you a small. God, was his laugh attractive.

"You're into makeup and stuff?" He questioned.

"Yeah, I'm into 'makeup and stuff' " You said the last few words in the mocking tone, referring to what he called cosmology.

"That's good, at least I'll be seeing you often."

"Often? Oh, are you in that major also?" You said.

"No...Do you really not know anything?" He made you feel dumb by his response. How were you suppose to know what he meant? You clicked your teeth and started walking ahead. You pushed back the door that lead to another hallway and walked towards the end to push the second door that lead to another building.

The brunette boy watched as you left him behind in the dirt, waiting for the moment you'll turn the wrong corner—so he could tease you about it then correct you.

It wasn't too long till you reached your destination, you both stopped in front of the class's door.

"Well, see you. I hope you don't make snarky remarks to every girl you meet."

"Nah, only you princess." He had a smirk on his face, ooo! You wanted to wipe it off.

You glanced at him and his eyes were already on you, you broke eye contact and reached for the handle.

"Wait–" you whipped your heard back.

"Yeah?"

He cleared his throat

"Name's Eren," you let out a small giggle, did he really just stop you to say his name? Puhleasee. Hearing your laugh, his face brightened up and kept his eyes on you.

"Okay, Eren~. Thank you for walking me, I gotten get to class now."

You opened the door and stepped inside. Eren didn't even get a chance to ask your name. Luckily for him, your major mingled a lot with his own, he could only hope to see you again around campus.

‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿

Authors note: UGHHH, I STAYED UP ALL NIGHT FOR THIS just to pass out a few hours before school started. 🥲 I wasn't even paying attention in English and math class, but hope yall enjoyed <3.

Pt 3

#x reader #attack on titan #eren headcanons #eren x reader #eren yeager x reader #eren yeager #anime #eren yeager x y/n #eren x black reader #eren yeager x you #aot x black reader #eren jeager #eren jaeger x reader #connie springer #aot season 4 #eren smut #fanfic #anime fanfic

117 notes · View notes