#'who would want to see me in a romantic comedy i look like i took a brick to the face'

[thewayitalknj]

I've been listening to a lot of Mötley Crüe lately to hopefully manifest me seeing them in Las Vegas next year. Came up with this while driving, which is how a lot of my ideas come to be recently. Word Count - 1.6k

Part 1 | Part 2

"Come on please, I have no idea what they have planned and it's killing me." He was practically begging you at this point. You roll your eyes as you walk down the next aisle, stacking the next set of 'romantic comedies' that just came in.

"Eddie, it's your birthday, it's supposed to be a surprise. And can you please stop bugging me while I'm working?"

"Yeah yeah sure I'll stop bugging you" he grits his teeth, "if you tell me what they have planned."

You turn around fully facing him, pushing your glasses back up your nose, taking your voice down to a whisper. "Look I truly have no idea what the fuck they have planned so please stop asking. Just be grateful they're doing something with you and you're not spending your birthday alone." You turn back around, making your way to the 'horror' section.

"At least come with me-"

"I can't, I have my bookclub tonight. But come to my place and tell me all about your guys night tomorrow if you're not too hungover."

He huff's his breath up, his bangs moving in the process. "Thanks a lot."

"I'm sure you'll have a blast."

A strip club. A fucking strip club. As much as Eddie appreciated what his friends were doing this is not what he expected. All he wanted was a guy's night in playing D&D and watching movies but no, his friends had to go all out.

The worst part is it was 'dress up night', so the strippers would be in various costumes. His friends thought the better, dress up plus dancing ladies ; what more could anyone ask for?

After a few hours sitting in a booth a few drinks in, an announcement sounded over the DJ speakers ; "alright everyone we have a birthday in the house! We want to welcome our birthday boy in Booth 21 to come on up for a special dance!" As everyone roared with excitement Eddie blushed under the neon lights.

"Why are y'all doing this to me?"

Garth pushes him forward, "Because we love you, NOW GO!" Eddie reluctantly makes his way up and sits on the chair provided for him. He drums nervously on his knees waiting for the song to start.

The next dancer comes to take the stage, dressed in all red, devil horns, and a red laced mask. Her hair is curled, not one piece left undone. She steps into the spotlight, and Eddie swears time halts and he has to take breath in order to steady himself. He is mesmerized. She slowly makes her way over, putting her hands on both sides of the chair. She eyes him up and down smirking to herself and as her song begins to play ; taking control of the room.

Eddie feels like he's fallen under some sort of spell, like something he wrote out for a campaign. He's so enthralled he completely forgot he was in a room with other people. He watches every move she makes ; the way her hips sway, how she doesn't come too close but just enough to tease him, and the way she makes eye contact with him? Forget about it ; Eddie swears he's falling in love with her right then and there, even though this was his first interaction with the mystery woman.

And in the three minutes the song plays, Eddie is so thankful his friends took him out. He tries to memorize every detail of the devil, just in case he decides to come back another time. Maybe on his own? Maybe with buddies again? Who knows, but he just had to remember her. Particular details ran through his head ; the hair style, the color of her eyes, and while she moved her body up against his, he noticed a small birthmark on the left side of her body, ironically shaped like a heart right above her heart ; and be still his own heart. Right when the music fades and the crowd begins to cheer breaking him out of his headspace, she leans in to his ear and with a sultry voice whispers "happy birthday sweetheart" and it's right then and there Eddie could have been shot through the chest by an arrow and he would feel no pain.

His posse of course never let him see the end of it, with constant teasing as the night went on. One thing was for sure, he could not wait to tell you about his night in the morning.

Eddie couldn't wait, he was practically banging at your door at 9:00am. You reach for your glasses on the nightstand, pull your hair in a messy bun and make your way towards the front door. You look through the peephole and Eddie is waving.

"Ed, what the hell-"

"I gotta tell you about last night." He races in, high on adrenaline pacing your living room.

"Good morning to you too-" You shut the front door, "can I please make some coffee first? I'm exhausted."

"Bookclub ran late?"

"Something like that. Want a cup?"

"Sure, thanks." You sulk to the kitchen and make your coffee, wondering what the hell has Eddie all wound up. You make your way back, handing him his cup as he takes a seat on your couch. "Damn, what book are you ladies reading that has you staying up so late?"

"It's nothing. So tell me, how was your birthday?"

"Amazing, they took me to a strip club."

You swallow your coffee, hard. "Oh wow, what an event."

"You're telling me, it was incredible. Well at least, she was incredible."

"Oh god Eddie don't tell me you fell in love with a dancer-"

"You don't understand. There was just something about her, I-I know it sounds corny but it was like magic. I've never felt like that before." He looks around your living room, then reaching over and grabs your shoulders playfully, shaking you. "Am I going crazy?!"

You laugh, "I don't think so. I just find it hilarious that it's a fucking stripper you're talking about."

"Yeah, well-" Just as Eddie begins to move his arms something catches his eye.

A birthmark. On the left side of your body. In the shape of a heart. He looks into your eyes, the same color and sparkle that were under the mask. He looks at your hair, it's normally straight, why does it look curly and wavy?

All these small details come together in his head. He moves his hands off you and runs them through his own hair, piecing everything together.

"So yeah, uh-enough about me...how was...bookclub?"

"Oh god you don't wanna hear about my bookclub. Why-"

"No no, I do..want to hear....about the bookclub. Please tell me." He takes another sip of his coffee, staring at the birth mark.

You follow his eyes, "is there something on me?"

"Hm, no. Just....so, bookclub?"

"Oh you know, just another night of girl talk about a steamy romance novel and too much wine, just the norm." Eddie can't even think straight, all the events from last night come rushing to his head.

You ponder at him wondering if he's okay, "sweetheart are you alright? You're starting to worry me."

Sweetheart, a nickname normally used frequently but now it's different. He jolts up from your couch. "I gotta go. Dustin and I have...stuff-to do."

You're dismayed, just nodding your head. "Um okay, but if you need anything just let me know-"

"Yeah uh thanks. And thanks for uh the coffee and...talk."

He speedily exits your home, and you're left wondering if maybe just maybe...

Just a Few Hours Ago

You stand off stage looking out to the man sitting on the chair. Only to realize it was Eddie.

"Oh shit-"

"What's up girl? Everything okay?" Your co-worker, Jade, comes up behind you.

"I-I can't go out. You take my slot instead."

"What, why? I'm not on for another 20, why do you want to switch?" She signals to Cassie, the DJ, to hold off on the music. Cassie gives a thumbs up and waits.

"I know the guy sitting in the chair, he's one of my friends. I can't...dance for him."

"Why? He won't know it's you, we're all dressed up tonight."

"Yeah but it's just...awkward that I know and he...doesn't."

"Look, I understand where you're coming from but I think you should just do it. He won't know it's you, does he know you work here?"

"No no, he's here with his friends for his birthday," You watch him drum on his legs, probably nerves. "I wouldn't picture him as someone who would want to come out and do this but, there he is."

"So, give him the dance of his life. Something he'll never forget. Remember, you're not going out as yourself." You nodded your head, Jade was right. You signal back to Cassie to start your song when ready. You quietly thank Jade, take a deep breath and take the stage.

24 Hours Later

As you apply your lipstick looking in the mirror, your other coworker Bianca comes in. "Hey B! How was your daughter's band recital?"

She takes a seat next to you giving you a half hug. "It was great! She crushed her solo, I'm so proud of her."

"That's incredible. I can't wait to see the tape!"

"Oh before I forget, Pam wanted me to tell you you got a private dance at 10:30."

"Wait, really?" You ponder, turning around in the chair. "I haven't done a private dance in weeks."

"Guess someone really likes you because they asked for you specifically."

"Oh wow. Really? Okay then, thanks for the heads up."

"No problem, be safe!"

Once 10:30 rolls around you make your way to Room #2, opening the door and stopping dead in your tracks the moment you see who it is, casually lounging on the couch.

"Sup sweetheart?"

Quick Notes - Hope you enjoyed! :) Thank you for reading! Reblogs are much appreciated! Maybe Part 2? idk.

[katiascraft]

hiii so i thought maybe like a tough argument with lando that leads into an argument and reader is his fiancee so she gives him the engagement ring back. Really dramatic and a lot of angst. Oh and the Franco fic was perfect thx💗

Hiii 💌 i'm so happy you liked the franco fic! Thank you for your request and appreciate my work 🥹 (get ready to cry - i sobbed). Hope you like it beautiful! -------------------------------------------------------------------

"You swore that you loved me, but where were the clues? I died on the altar waiting for the proof" | LN4

part 2 here

Pairings: Lando Norris x Fiancee!reader.

Summary: Lando doesn’t love you anymore.

Now playing: "So long, London" by Taylor Swift.

Word count: +2k.

Warnings: ANGST. This made my heart ache. Not a native enligh speaker so there could be errors (I do what I can). Not proofread.

Author's note: I highly recomend reading this one while listening to So long, London. This made me really sad :( thank you anon again for your requests you’re the best mwak 😙. Don’t forget to like or reblog! And follow me so we can be friends :3 (and drink mate together!)

MASTERLIST

The tension in that little bathroom you were in could be cut by a knife. The sunset could be seen through the window. Monaco´s view has always been your favorite since you moved here with Lando. But today…lately, everything has faded to gray. There was no even black and white just plain grays in the most colorful place in the world. You knew it was because of him. that sparkle you used to have was completely gone. And it's been gone for a few months.

The knot in your throat isn't letting you breathe properly. an evening that could be magical chatting by the pool, was again consumed by your hurting and mourning.

You thought Lando hated you.

Things got really bad.

You did not trust him anymore. You were always on high alert. You knew in some way he didn't love you anymore. That he was probably cheating on you behind your back with models. and you have convinced yourself of that. you barely could look at each other now. you stopped going to his races. He stopped kissing you goodbye or smiling when he looked at you. He didn't buy your favorite ice-cream anymore nor did he offer to go hiking knowing how much you loved nature. you stopped having sex. You didn't cuddle anymore nor kiss good morning.

You felt empty. Lost. You weren't you anymore. All of you who used to be so happy and bright and fun to be around - he took it away the minute he stopped loving you. And you had had enough of it. You didn't want to believe it. But it was true.

He didn't love you anymore.

All you had now were arguments for stupid things. Doubts he was cheating with every girl that followed him on instagram.

You looked at your engagement ring on your finger. You were in the bathroom freshly showered. all of the pain you always tried to hide came out like a storm on you. You started sobbing, holding yourself against the counter of the bathroom.

You loved him. and you were so scared that you would love him forever. you wanted to hate him. You really wanted to do so but you couldn't. And you were so mad because you loved this place. You used to love your life here with him. But there's no you and him anymore. And the promise of forever just didn't exist anymore.

The life you dreamt was gone.

You really thought this was it. Your happy ending. Your best life. Your own romantic comedy by the sea. The man you wanted to have a family with. He was the love of your life.

All of these months you tried so hard. Tried to revive the love you wanted to be there still. You cooked his favorite meals for him to just say thanks and not even look at you. You tried to support him at Singapore GP going by surprise - he wasn't so excited anymore to see you there. You cried in the bathroom that evening. When did love hurt so much? When love became such a nightmare you couldn't wake up from? How much tragedy did you have to suffer in order to make him love you again?

Did you even matter? Did he ever love you for real?

The pain you felt was one you haven't felt in your whole life. You didn't know how life was without him in it. Without his kisses and hugs. Without making him laugh and travel the world together. Without his family and their Christmas celebrations. Without his hand on your waist everywhere you went. Without his eyes admiring you. Without his advice. Without him with you. next to you. Together. Was forever even real?

You couldn't stop crying your eyes out. You had to sit on the floor. Your hair soaking wet staining your pajamas. You were shaking. You didn't know how to pretend anymore. How to keep going like this. Leaving terrified you. But how could you live like this? Did you even deserve it? Was it fair for you to be treated this way?

It seemed he didn't even care about you anymore. About you two.

Your heart was completely broken.

Were all of these girls better than you? Have you ever even been enough for him?

Every thought broke you down even more. You were gasping. You couldn't hide it anymore. You wanted to scream and run away. Hide yourself from the world. From him. You felt so humiliated. You believed he would love you forever. You felt like such a fool. How would your friends even look at you now? Would they like to be friends anyway? Or would they hate you just like he does?

A knock on the door took you out of your thoughts. That scared you. You didn't want to open the door. You knew it was him. You knew he would get mad.

“y/n open the door please. I wanna check on you. I could hear you sobbing from the living room” he said with a worried tone. You tried to wipe your face in vain. It wouldn't work.

You stood up and finally opened the door. You didn't look at him. If you did you didn't know what could happen. You really wanted to die right there. Showing him how down you were for him. How bad he could destroy you. “y/n… what's wrong?” he said softly trying to hold you close to him but you stopped him taking his hands off you and pushing him aside heading to the living room. He frowned looking at you from behind.

He followed you. “y/n” he insisted. You sighed heavily. You didnt turn to look at him, you just showed him your back. “y/n what the fuck is wrong with you? Look at me” he pronounced again now with anger in his tone. You started crying again because he raised his voice.

“You! You are the fucking problem lando! Don't act like you don't get it! You know damn well it's you!” you snapped at him done with all of this. You were done.

Your reaction took him by surprise. He knew. Of course he knew you two were miserable. He felt buried alive. Seeing you like that just took it all. He was already gone. He now realized where you both were. You were just dust. So old and abandoned. He looked at you not knowing what to say and that exasperated you.

“fucking say something please! I'm driving myself insane and you don't even care! Have I ever mattered to you?! Just say fucking something! I'm done lando. I'm done pretending we are happy. I'm miserable. You don't even look at me anymore we don even kiss! What has this ring even meant to you? You are a fucking liar! You don't love anymore, don't you? You haven't even loved me ever!” you pushed him a little. You were so frustrated. Hatred and pain controlled you. He broke you. He buried you alive. He left you down alone. He didn't come to rescue you. You didn't exist anymore.

He tried to take your hands to calm you down. “y/n please. Calm yourself down. Please�� his breath was heavy and his voice shaky. His heart was shattering in a million pieces. He was a coward. He made you stay with him when he wanted to go away from here. He didn't even know what he was feeling or what he wanted. He felt like a monster. He was so confused. You looked him in the eyes. Begging him to tell you something. To say I love you. That he wanted to stay with you. “y/n im so sorry i made you feel like this” he said now his voice cracked and his eyes full of tears he was trying to hold so he could be the strong one in this situation.but he really wasn't. He was the weakest.

You couldn't believe he just said that. You went nuts. The pain drove you crazy. “sorry!? That's all you have to say lando!? You are not fucking sorry dont fucking lie to me to my fucking face! Am I a joke to you?!” you shouted getting away from him. You didn't want to be touched by him ever again.

“I'm not lying y/N!” he screamed at you bursting into tears without being able to hold his own hurt. “I don't love you anymore! There you go! I fucking said it, are you happy now? I dont fucking love you anymore!” he surprised himself for what he said and the way it got out of him.

You froze. You didn't want to listen anymore. You already knew he didn't. But hearing him saying it like that onto your face ended you right there. You couldn't move. You couldn't look at him. All the flashbacks of your happy moments were passing through your head at high speed. All that once was your life, it wasn't anymore. He was once yours, and now he doesn't anymore. Was this even real?

He was sobbing. He fell into the sofa crying and hiding his face between his hands. He was broken. “I'm really sorry I didn't have the balls to say it to you before. To put you into all of this pain. Mistreating you so much. I'm so sorry. I don't even know what i'm feeling i just think i don't love you anymore” he tried to explain himself as best he could through all of his crying and breathless exasperation.

“You're not sorry. You never loved me. You can't do this to me lando! We had a fucking wedding plan! I was already looking for dresses! Im so fucking stupid to have ever believed in you! Don't trust the player they said. How could I not believe it! Fuck you lando!” you were so hurt.so angry. You felt disgusted. Disgusted with his lips even touching you. His hands make you see stars. You wouldn't believe what you were living right now. You took off the engagement ring from your finger and threw it at him. It landed on the floor in front of him. “I really hope you stay miserable your whole life lando. And I hope you find someone who can make you happy and be enough for you and then destroy you. Break you in a million pieces. Did you find someone better? A model? A driver?” you looked at him with contempt. He was staring at the ring laying on the floor over the rug you bought in Mexico last year. When you were happy and were planning a future together. “Im heading the fuck out” you announced and run to your shared room. Got a bag and put some of your clothes in it. You couldn't stop crying. You were leaving. You were leaving your soul trapped in this house. You were leaving yourself behind. The one that would not exist ever again.

“y/n wait don't go please we can still try and figure this out together.please don't leave me. Im sorry baby please” he rushed into the bedroom trying to stop you from taking your things. You didn't let him and continued.

“No we can't lando. I'm done. You said it. You don't love me anymore then why would I stay in a place where I'm not welcome anymore? Would you stay? You don't even want to be here neither” you said frantically zipping up your bag and heading out the room. You took your keys from the kitchen table. He didn't know what to say. He couldn't stop you.

He was a monster.

“Don’t fucking ever look for me again. Hope you find someone who can make you not fall out of love before the wedding and that you actually have the family of your dreams” you said. Those words burnt your soul into ashes. Everything he wanted was without you in it.

You could have had it all.

You opened the door getting out of the house to your car. He followed you watching you getting in your car. He couldn't stop you. You didn't even say goodbye to him. He didn't say a word either.

He was holding the ring you threw in his hand. The little object burnt his skin. You were gone. The life you have built together is gone. And he was alone.

Shaking he got into his house again. He looked at the ring in his hand once more.

What has he done?

——————————————————————————————

What is it with men that they realized they love you when they already broke you? 🙃

Hope you liked it 💌 if you have any ideas my inbox is open so send your requests!

[dreaisgrayte]

Headcanons of the hashiras and their ideal weddings!!

(I WANT TO GET MARRIED :()

This is such a cute idea! The Hashiras would be such good spouses let's be honest. I wrote this as reader being a wife, I hope that's okay.

Also AHHH, I want to get married too! Then I'd have someone legally forced to help me stage fic scenarios and be a source of inspiration. That's the dream tbh

Ideal Weddings with the Hashira

Includes: Gyomei Himijima, Tengen Uzui, Sanemi Shinazugawa, Obanai Iguro, Giyu Tomioka, Kyojuro Rengoku, Mitsuri Kanroji, Shinobu Kocho Synopsis: What would your ideal wedding be like with the Hashira? (again Muichiro is my little baby and seeing him get married would be too much, but as a side part: he'd probably forget if you didn't walk him down the aisle yourself, so it would be a very wholesome event for the both of you) warnings: guys... it's up to you how you interpret what happens, but I know and you know.

Gyomei Himejima

Gyomei wants something small and personal. 

The ceremony would take place at a shrine, an overall calm and peaceful event

He invites friends over for a reception in the backyard of the home you share

Gyomei, at all times, will have his hand either over your shoulder, on your thigh, or intertwined with your hand. He wants to keep you close, close enough to hug, close enough to kiss, and close enough to haul off when the party is over

The night ends with you falling asleep cuddled up next to him

Tengen Uzui

Tengen wants to go all out on your wedding dress, the decorations, the music, every little thing is amplified with magnificent splendor, thanks to your soon-to-be husband

The reception is an even bigger event, with floods of people you don’t know dancing to music just so Uzui can show you off for the night

Everything had to be perfectly glorious because that’s what you were

As the new wife, Makio, Suma, and Hinatsuru party with you all night, gossiping about how to best care for your beloved husband

Sanemi Shinazugawa

Sanemi would want just the two of you at the wedding except only those who mattered the most

The “after party” is simply a retreat for the both of you. He whispers about showing you off to the world, shouting from the rooftops about how much he loves you, but tonight you’re only for him

He takes all the time in the world to show you just how much he appreciates his newlywed wife

Obanai Iguro

Obanai is a tricky one because once he fell in love with you, he already saw you as his wife. He would just start calling you sweet marital pet names in the midst of life, taking you by surprise every time

Eventually, you’d have to tell him that you wanted to actually get married, the whole shebang, but Obanai would have you sign the papers and put on the wedding dress for only him to see

He wouldn’t be able to deal with anyone else looking at you from now on since your name and his were intertwined in eternity

Giyu Tomioka

Giyu leaves the planning to you because he can’t be trusted with making so many important decisions

He’s sure to love anything you decide 

When you walk up the aisle looking the way you do, he wishes he would’ve been more involved because his face contorts as he starts to sob over how beautiful you look

At the reception, Giyu still can’t believe that you took on such a stressful job and still smile at him with all the love in your heart. At the end of the night, all he can think about is how gorgeous you are when you still love him – even after he doesn’t deserve it

Kyojuro Rengoku

Kyojuro wants a traditional wedding that makes you shine in the best way. He’s wanted to tie the knot ever since he met you so at the moment he’s as excited as a child on Christmas morning

It’s a charming wedding, one that would appear in a romantic comedy at the end with a ‘just married’ car

Kyojuro carries you through the threshold of your home and not one guest sees either of you for many days because if there’s one thing Rengoku likes calling you more than wife, is hearing you be called mama.

Mitsuri Kanroji

Mitsuri gets excited planning all the colors and ideas and together you make the perfect spring wedding with flowers and cherry blossoms everywhere. 

It’s back to the quaint and romantic Japanese countryside for your wedding, friends and family gathering around to share in the bottomless love 

With Mitsuri it’s like the sun has gotten married to you, her smile is enough to warm your heart and when she kisses you – the whole world falls away

It’s hard for you not to worship Mitsuri with how considerate she is every second of the day, so you end up showering her with surplus amounts of love

Mitsuri is thrilled to show you just how flexible she can be, in more ways than one. 

Shinobu Kocho

Shinobu doesn’t want anyone else to ruin what little time she’ll get to spend with you, so you elope

She takes you far away from everyone else and you travel the world, collecting medicinal flora and fauna, touring beautiful villages, and holding hands the whole way

Now that you’re her wife, everything falls into place, she only wishes her older sister could’ve met you. 

Shinobu whispers to you every night how much she loves you and how she’s damn sure your body could heal the world

[damiansgoodgirll]

I would like a story where Damian becomes extremely protective of his wife and child after a dangerous event occurs.

i looooove writing about this kind of stuff! let’s say this is kind of an utopia but it could still happen, okay?

anyway

damian priest x reader

‼️angst and fluff

wrong house

your life was perfect.

perfect like in one of those romantic comedy.

you had a loving husband, a beautiful daughter and a big house like you dreamed about when you were a kid. a huge living room, plenty of space for your daughter to run and play, a backyard pool and the classic white picket fence. you were in a nice and wealthy neighbourhood, surrounded by lots of parks and kind people.

what more could you ask for?

a couple of blocks away from your neighbourhood there’s been a few robberies, nothing major, just some teens thinking it was fun scaring old people, but police officers told you multiple times that you didn’t have to worry about it, that they have it handle it.

damian wasn’t so sure about it tho.

he made everything in his power to provide you with a beautiful house, a nice neighbourhood so you could feel safe when he was travelling for work so the idea of having teens breaking into people’s homes late at night made him shiver, especially when he thought about you and your daughter.

“are you sure it’s okay? i can come home early…you know it’s not a problem mi amor” he said through the phone.

“dam…” you said laughing “everything been calm for over three weeks, we’ll be okay…”

“i know it’s just…you know how i get when i’m not home, i’m only thirty minutes away from you and in case anything happens you give me a call okay?”

“i promise you dam…go back to training” you said laughing again.

“i will, tell maya that i love her okay? and that i miss her so much and that i will crush her with hugs and kisses once i come back home” he said smiling, thinking about his two years old daughter.

“i will i promise…go back to training, we’ll see you in a couple of hours…” you said giving him a kiss through your phone and hanging up.

you smiled watching your daughter being completely invested in the cartoon she was watching.

the evening went on normally.

you and maya had dinner together, you got her ready for the night but as usual she didn’t want to go to bed without having a goodnight kiss from her father, so, instead of going to bed, you spent the early night together, watching some cartoons and eating popcorn.

you watched the time and you knew damian would be back in an hour so you took a few seconds to close your eyes and relax a bit.

non even a minute passed that you heard some weird noise coming from the back door.

you knew for sure that damian wasn’t back, you didn’t hear the car and even if he was, you knew he never used the back door, so what was going on?

then you heard them, two, maybe three voices talking softly. saying how hard it was to open your door and that maybe they should go to another house. you prayed that they would let you alone but when you heard the click sound of the door opening you realised it was too late.

you grabbed maya into your arms and pulled her towards your chest. moving fast to the bedroom, you locked yourself in, and then you locked yourself into the bathroom, hiding maya behind you in the tub.

you knew you should have called the police, you knew that but the first person that came to your mind was damian.

you didn’t know what was going on, and if something bad was going to happen you wanted to hear damian’s voice one last time.

“please…” you whispered, waiting to hear his voice.

your hands were shaking and even if you were crying, you were praying no one would be able to hear you from downstairs.

“hey love” he answered.

“dam?” your voice broke.

“hermosa…what’s going on?” he asked, alarmed by the sound of your voice.

“dam they’re here…”

“who?” he knew who, he just didn’t want it to be real.

“someone’s in the house…dam, they’re in the kitchen, looking for something i guess, i’m in the bathroom with maya, we’re locked in…i know they never hurt anyone, they’re just kids but…damian i’m so scared, i don’t want anything to happen to maya” you broke down, trying to muffle your cries.

“listen to me amor, i’m coming back home right now okay?” he said and you hummed “you’re on the speaker, finn is with me and he’s calling the police right now, you stay at the phone with me okay?”

he didn’t know how he was able to remain so calm. in reality he was freaking out, just the thought of you and maya being in danger made his blood boil.

“is maya okay?” he asked.

“she’s okay, she’s scared too but she’s okay” you said, looking at your daughter’s face. she was confused and definitely scared but still she didn’t know what was going on.

“are you okay love? i’m coming back home, right now..you stay at the phone with me okay?”

“okay…” you said.

you hear the noise from downstairs growing closer to you, they were in the living room right now. you were lucky your house was big enough that you had the time to hide.

“damian they’re closer…i can hear them… i’m so scared…”

“i know princesa i know….keep holding on for me okay…i’m driving as fast as possible, keep holding on”

“i love you so much damian…so so much”

“don’t say that like it’s the last time you’ll say this…” damian’s heart broke, he couldn’t imagine how scared you must have been “i love you so much mi amor and i’m not going anywhere, ill stay at the phone with you, finn just told me the police is on their way…”

“okay…” you whispered.

damian kept talking to you but you stopped him when you heard the sirens ringing.

“police is here…” you whispered letting damian know about it.

you heard them breaking down the front door. you heard them chasing the kids around your house and you heard them calling your name.

you waited until they found you. they were police but you didn’t trust them enough to come out yet, you didn’t feel safe. the only place where you always felt safe was between damian’s arms and you couldn’t wait for him to be back.

you and your daughter were brought downstairs. you didn’t care about the broken furnitures, not when something worse could have happened.

damian ran into the house, fighting off police officers who told him to stay outside.

“my wife and my daughter are inside!” you heard him screaming, shoving past one officer.

“dam…” you said, tears running down your face.

“hey…” he whispered hugging you tight. maya was watching the whole scene with a confused smile. she was just a kid, too young to understand what was going on. one police officer was sat next to her, while you couldn’t let go of damian’s embrace.

“i was so scared…”

“i know mi amor, i know…everything is over now, you’re safe, you and maya are safe…” he kept repeating, more to himself, because he couldn’t describe how terrified he was when you told him someone broke into your house.

“i’m so glad she’s okay…i would have fought with all my life if something happened….”

“i know hermosa…she’s so lucky to have you as her mom, i’m so glad to call you my wife…and i’m so happy to see you both here alive, i’m so sorry i wasn’t here”

“damian, it’s not your fault” you said before he could blame himself “you’re here now and it’s all that matters”

“i love you so much…and you too maya” he said moving to bring her up in his arms.

she was just happy to see his daddy smiling at her.

“missed you” she said with her soft voice that always made your heart smile.

“i missed you too princess…and i’m not going anywhere for a long time” he said kissing her head “daddy is gonna stay here with you”

she seemed happy with his decision and so were you.

it was kinda selfish taking him away from his work but he knew that you wouldn’t trust yourself to be home alone for some time now and he didn’t want to leave you alone, never.

[sylusjinwoon]

{ 021 }

- how they comfort you after a breakup -

featuring: gojo satoru, geto suguru, nanami kento, fushiguro megumi

dedicated to @xbarrjallenx

[ gojo satoru 🕶️ ]

gojo is the type to wipe away your tears while reassuring you that you always deserved better than your dumbass ex. he will remain vigilantly by your side while slowly healing your broken heart all while hoping that someday, you’ll realize that he was the man you have wanted all along…

gojo wanted nothing more than to march over to your ex’s place and teach him a lesson or two-

but his undying devotion and commitment to you prevents him from doing so.

you continue clinging to him, basking in gojo’s words of whispered comfort while running a hand through your hair. he hated feeling your hot tears staining at the front of his shirt, yet still, he knew it was important that you let out all of your emotions so that it would be easier for you to heal as time went on.

after what felt like hours of you crying nonstop, gojo hears you calling out to him, the cascade of your tears finally slowing down to a few droplets when you shakily apologize to him.

“s-sorry for crying so much, ‘toru.”

he scoffs upon hearing your apology, picking you up from his spot on the couch. looking down at your damp face and bloodshot eyes, a wave of empathy and love surrounds the world’s strongest sorcerer.

“shush, you don’t need to apologize for a damn thing.”

he carries you into your bathroom, settling you on top of the toilet while working on wetting the handkerchief to help wipe your face with. he hums one of your favorite songs, earning a giggle from you.

an almost triumphant smile paints gojo’s features when he leans down and gently wipes away at your stray tears.

“listen to me, and listen well, okay?” gojo softly murmurs to you while still cleaning your face.

“i know it’ll take some time for you to get over him, but just know that you always deserved more than what that bastard was willing to give you. you deserve a man who will dedicate his whole life to making you happy; a man who will love you unconditionally without giving you mere scraps of his affection.”

a man like me. gojo doesn’t tell you his thoughts, though. he never wanted to be a mere rebound for you, and now that he knew that you were free from your selfish ex’s grasps, he could finally work on convincing your heart that you belonged with him.

when he was finished with wiping away your tears, he puts the damp handkerchief into your basket of dirty laundry, basking in your tiny smile and the way you met his gaze in an affectionate manner.

“thank you, satoru. i really needed that.”

he listens to the way you let out a sniffle, pressing a comforting kiss against your forehead before asking you if it was alright for him to stay the night. not wishing to spend another night alone, you eagerly accepted his offer.

with you now settled on his lap (and favorite carton of ice cream in hand), you watch a light, romantic comedy on t.v. in hopes of easing your heartache, giggling here and there at the love interest’s antics while basking in gojo’s gentle kisses against your hair…

[ geto suguru 🔮 ]

when geto sees you in tears due to a bad breakup, his gaze would darken before taking you in his arms to help with comforting while confessing that so long as you asked him to, then he would make sure to make your ex disappear.

it took geto a herculean effort to remain rooted on the couch of your apartment, holding you in his embrace while surrounded by empty cartons of ice cream and various snack bags.

you had told him about your breakup with your ex through shuddering tears, the sight of it all being enough to make geto’s fist remained clenched in response.

despite how he wanted nothing more than to confront your ex because of how much the asshole had hurt you, geto fought such desires and remained by your side. he runs his hand across your hair, allowing you to finish before landing your tear-stained face against his broad chest.

as your tears were felt wetting the front of his shirt, geto lets out a sigh, leaning in to press light kisses against the shell of your ear while whispering into them. “if he upset you so much, shall i kill him for you and rip out his heart, bringing such a useless organ to you?”

geto’s totally teasing and not serious words earns a choked laugh from you, managing to stop your tears momentarily as you pull back away from his shirt and weakly poked his cheek.

“n-no, there’s no need for that, suguru… i’m actually feeling so much better now that i got it off my chest… and have you by my side.”

a rich chuckle escapes from geto’s parted lips, with him holding you close as he casually asks you what you would like to eat as takeout for dinner, making you completely unaware of the sincerity behind his words-

truly, if you asked him to commit heinous crimes just for the sake of easing your broken heart, geto would do it for you in a heartbeat.

[ nanami kento 🗞️ ]

nanami is the type to truly take care of you, knowing that you didn’t have the energy nor the strength to do it yourself. when you came to his apartment with tears in your eyes, he invited you inside his humble apartment with little to no question at all.

nanami’s gaze remains utterly focused on the task at hand, cooking all of your favorite foods as he uses every knowledge he had to whip up your favorite meal. his movements were meticulous and graceful, plating the meal in a manner that he hoped would appeal to you and further strengthen your appetite.

when you came to his apartment in tears, nanami let you in without a hint of hesitation. he notices the dark circles beneath your eyes and the way you seemed to have lost some weight. he asks why you appeared so haggard and weak, yet all you could tell him was that you “didn’t have much of an appetite after the breakup.”

this further serves to infuriate nanami, as he hated the bastard that dared make you look so unwell. if you were his woman, he would treat you like the way you deserved to be treated.

to him, you were a precious diamond; a one in a million type of woman that your ex was just too stupid to truly love and appreciate. to say that the duration of your relationship with your ex was maddening to nanami would be the understatement of the century.

nanami could never fight back his feelings of envy whenever he saw that bastard’s possessive arms wrapped around your waist, and now that he was stupid enough to let you go, it was time for nanami to step in and show you what love was truly like.

true love was unconditional.

true love meant making your partner happy.

but most importantly of all, true love was patient and giving.

and nanami was all too eager to demonstrate all of these facets of true love to you, little by little.

once dinner consisting of all your favorite foods was finished being made, nanami walks toward the spare bedroom he had given to you. he knocks on the door to announce his presence before opening it, nearly jumping back when he already sees you already standing before him.

a sheepish expression paints your features with your arms wrapped around your stomach. “hey ken, uhm, i thought about taking a nap, but smelling the delicious scent coming from your cooking made me a little ah… hungry.”

as if to further prove your famished state, he hears the sounds of your stomach growling, earning a rich chuckle from the man as he gently leads you out of the room and into the dining room.

pulling out the chair for you to sit down in, nanami gestures at the various plates. “by all means, dig in. you need it.”

grabbing your utensils, you happily state, “thank you for this meal!” before steadily devouring the delicious meal nanami had made for you.

as nanami sits across from you, he had to fight back a smile, filled with an anticipation to finally get a chance to love you.

[ megumi fushiguro 🐺 ]

megumi can and will fight for you. when he realizes that the bastard had the gall to treat you like shit and toss you aside, he wasn’t afraid to pay your ex a little visit…

megumi’s eyes narrow when he sees the familiar head of hair and hoodie, a typical style reminiscent of your ex-boyfriend. just seeing the sight of him hopping around various clubs while you were left to suffer made megumi’s blood boil.

keeping a safe distance away from your ex, megumi casually follows the fucker, muttering curses beneath his breath upon seeing how happy he was without you. while you remained miserable and hidden within your apartment, he was free to do as he pleased, boasting about how much happier he was without you while searching for a new girl to “play with.”

unable to fight back his anger and rage, megumi walks up to him with his fists clenched, calling out the bastard’s name to get his attention. he only catches a glimpse of megumi before a fist was brought down against his face. a painful crunch was heard as blood began pouring from the asshole’s nose (a sight that sent satisfaction coursing through megumi’s veins).

“what the fuck?! the hell was that for?” the ex wanted to defend himself and get back at megumi for the punch, but something dark seen within the depths of megumi’s eyes prevents the ex from making a single move.

the bastard trembles beneath megumi’s contempt- filled gaze, his shivering only getting worse the moment megumi says your name in response to his question…

{ … }

a flurry of terrified texts comes from your ex, and you could do little than to read each and every one of them with wide eyes.

[ fuck, your new boyfriend is here and he’s gonna kill me !! ]

[ i’m sorry, okay?? i’m sorry for putting you through hell and not treating you well enough! ]

[ please don’t send him after me anymore! i’ll erase myself and block your number just please, tell your boyfriend that i’m sorry! ]

your eyebrows were furrowed in response, head spinning as you were unsure of what was going on. you didn’t have a new boyfriend-

however, the first person you went to after your relationship ended had been your best friend, megumi.

“megumi…” a sudden warmth fills at your chest, believing that he must have done something in your name to help with further protecting your dignity and your heart.

just a few minutes later, you heard someone knocking at the door with a familiar voice calling out to you, “oi, it’s me. let me in?”

tossing aside your phone on the bed, you reach your front door and unlock it, revealing megumi with bags of what you assumed were your favorite takeout meals and some snacks. a tiny smile paints his handsome features as he lets himself in while calling out your name.

“hey, i hope you feel better. if not, i got you some snacks and takeout food. hope you’re hungry and-“

the words die against megumi’s throat when you hug him from behind, pressing your face within his back as you wrapped your arms around his abdomen.

“thank you, thank you so much… you didn’t have to, b-but i’m so glad that you did.”

understanding what you meant, megumi gives you a fond smile while placing a hand over yours, basking in the way you held him even tighter in response.

someday soon, you’ll forget all about this heartache-

and when that day comes, megumi could finally come clean about his own feelings for you, all while swearing to never leave your side.

a.n. - this is dedicated to my bestie, gwen, and all of you out there who are currently going through the worst breakup of your life 🥹 just know that i believe that you all deserve a type of love like this and should not sacrifice yourself for someone who will not cherish and love you like you need to be cherished and loved ♡

all stories are written by rei; reposts, translations, and plagiarism are not allowed.

[zackius]

Adam SMUT HEADCANON

(It's my first work and English is not my native language, be indulgent and correct me if the grammar is bad lol)

It’s quite Adam with his virginity kink than his general smut headcanon lol

This man has a HUGE kink on virginity, if you're not one he would not really pay attention, he understands that you had fun before him, I mean, everyone’s kinda hot here lol.

However, if you are one, oh boy yes, this man is going crazy

Understand him he has abandonment issues, even if you can't really tell at first, he was really broken when Lilith AND Eve left him for another man.

He just wants to be important to someone and the only one and this goes through virginity.

NOBODY touched you? No man or woman? He's the first and only one who's going to see, touch, and please your body? This drives him CRAZY

You didn't fuck before actually being in a relationship with him, you seemed quite negative about that and he respected your boundaries, he didn't want to rush it all because he loves you.

Nevertheless, when you got officially into the relationship, of course, the subject was going to happen naturally.

So one day, you were together, laying on his belly and watching a comedy while criticizing it: "I fucking understand why this man broke up with this stupid bitch ! Sex is important as fuck ! I'm on his side !"

He was getting angry as always and continued to shout but froze up when he saw your blushing face, avoiding any eye contact with him. He kinda messed up and stuttered "B-Babe that's not what I meant ! Yeah it's important but I'm not a fucking dickhead I can wait !"

You were staring at him in embarrassment " You know, I'm not against doing it, I'm just not ready since I never did that"

Now that's his turn to be red. His eyes widen as he watches you "fuckkk-"

"You should've told me before but damnn-" a smirk started to appear on his face, quite a pervert smirk in your opinion.

You didn't know if it was a big deal or not, you always wanted to wait for the right man and he's the one in front of you.

"Babe we're going to wait as long as your little body is going to be ready for me ~" he purred “Adam !” his arms moved slowly around your hips. His big hands on your smaller body, you skipped a breath

You haven't done anything this night but you noticed that this man was getting horny as fuck. It was not oppressive of course, he would not do that, he doesn't want you to see sex as a burden. Even if he's going to rail you and makes you cum again and again he's waiting for your consent.

So the day you inform you're ready, he's more than happy. He tries to be the most romantic lover possible even if it's quite awkard.

In reality, he just fucking googled how to please a virgin girl. He followed weird tips and put some rose petals on your bed and all. You couldn't help but laugh, he usually has his romantic side but it's not like THAT. It was quite too lovey-dovey but to be honest really cute from him.

he was VERY gentle, very different from everyday were he insult and fight with everyone.

In Adam's head, he was concentrated, he wanted to make it special so you remember that for the rest of your life and from your perception, it was working.

He thought your reactions were cute, "Gnnn, please-", you were reacting with each of his touch. Your body was warm and particularly red from excitation.

But boy, even if he was slow, he wanted to be inside and right now. He was really dominant, you could feel his body and weight on you, your size difference took a part of it.

He touched your panties as he can feel the wetness of it. His smirk appeared again, his breath got heavier. Now it's going to be interesting for both of you !

His touch went a little faster, moving on to your most private parts. He's the first one who's going to see it. He put you panties away and looked your dripping pussy "Ohooo You won't regret waiting babe"

Adam started to lick your inter thigh, humming. Rapidly his tongue found your clit, he licked, sucked and devoured your pussy like he was starving for days and found the most delicious plate in front of him.

And you could definitely tell that, because damn you were feeling pure bliss, your man knew how to please your body. “Yes- sweetie continue-“, you were caressing his head unconsciously

Your pleasure growth, your inside craving him as you moaned his name. You wanted to keep this sweet pleasure but he stopped, you let an annoyed moan from the lack of sensation

He let a deep laugh “don’t worry babe, your cunt is going to be filled and with something better”. You saw his dick and damn you understood why he always was bragging about it, it was massive. “Are you ready to feel the dick of the first man ?” You just let a moan of excitement and spread your legs wider. “That’s my good girl”, he finally pushed it inside of you. You felt pain, it was really big but when he saw you in pain, he stopped and gave a a soft smile.

He kissed you during a time and continued slowly.

It was quite painful but you didn’t want to stop, you were happy to do it with him and were okay with the pain.

However you started to feel some pleasure from it, your hips movements met his. Adam noticed and tried to keep this spot as much as possible. You felt like you were drunk, your head felt heavy “Adam-“

You squeezed around his dick “fuckkk, yes baby- your pussy feel so fucking gooood”. You wrapped your legs around him, scratching his back as he was fucking you.

You started to feel a bigger pleasure growing inside of you. You’re going to cum soon and he knew it. His thrust became faster, at this point you couldn’t stop any moan and just let yourself feel your man. “I got you babe, let yourself go, yes just like that”

He praised you and knew you were getting close “baby let me fuck you right, I can feel that you love my cock, you’re perfect for me “ you moaned as he continued to talk, he also was close “You’re mine and mine only, I’m the first and the last cock you’re going to feel aaah~, promise me that you’re mine oh fuckkk yesss-“

You stared to also praise him, his face went with pure bliss, his blushing got redder, he loved the way you talked to him, praise that baby please he just wants to be a good boy for you.

“Aaah yesss fucking shit, you’re fucking mine and mine only” his last sentence was the start of your orgasm, you felt yourself tightening , a warm liquid blending with his own while he was cummimg, moaning your name and pounding his sperm inside of you.

You were his and he was yours

—

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed ! I don’t really know how to feel since it’s my first fic lol

If you have any suggestion with ships and stories tell me !! And also if the voc I used is weird tell me 🙏

[marleyybluu]

Truth or Drink

Pedro Pascal x fem!reader

WC: 1k

A lil quick one

Warnings: alcohol (drink responsibly), age gap (reader is like 30 we’ll say), fluff and flirting.

Look at this cutie

You sat across from him, nothing but smiles on both faces as you stared into each other's souls intensely. His sweet brown eyes wandered your face, fresh out of the makeup chair and looking stunning as always. You let out a small giggle, you looked down to shuffle your cards of questions. Today was going to be interesting.

The two of you had starred in a romantic comedy that had come out last week and the reviews it was getting had been great so far. The real buzz was the chemistry you two had, tabloids often twisting your innocent hangouts as something more. Pedro wasn't a difficult person to get along with, the vibes had been there since day one. You two clicked almost instantly, it was almost impossible to shoot one scene without one of you breaking character.

You had to admit though, the feelings you had were no longer just platonic. The movie felt all too real and whenever the director yelled cut you were sucked back into reality. Oh, that man could kiss. Lips soft and sweet, gentle and careful with yours as if he was scared to hurt you. There'd been a few times it felt a bit too real, but you didn't mind.

He made your heart race, even now, as he watched you across the table.

Today was another promo video for your movie. You two were doing Truth or Drink for Cut's YouTube channel. They wouldn't normally have well-known actors on their channel but they loved how you two interacted and insisted on a piece of the action. You had seen many of these videos and a lot of them were enjoyable so you were excited to do this, and also happy to get a few shots in. Though you two had some shots the night before.

"Alright, you guys ready?"

The both of you nodded and looked back at each other. The cameraman gave you two the thumbs up, and it didn't take long for you to let out a nervous giggle and quickly apologize for it. Pedro shook his head. "Hi, I'm Pedro Pascal, and this is my unprofessional co-star YN YLN." You sucked your teeth reaching over the small table to hit him in the arm with your cards.

"You can actually start with a shot if you guys would like." One of the producers informed. "Oh really?" Pedro asked, he looked back at you to see that you had already popped the top off of the bottle with tequila and poured it into his shot glass before pouring it into your own. There was juice in a slightly bigger glass as a chaser but you often didn't need it. "Salud." He winked. "Salud." You smiled before clinking and drinking. You sucked in your cheeks and squeezed your eyes as the drink burned your esophagus.

Pedro tapped his cards against the table catching your attention. "You want to go first?"

"Nah, you go." You leaned back in your chair interested to hear what he had written down. He looked down at his cards, a bit nervous about how this was going to go, he would try not to take too many shots for fear he might confess his true feelings on camera. "When they told you would be working with me, were you excited?"

You playfully rolled your eyes, a simple question but that shit-eating grin he had on his face meant it was a cocky question. "I already told you how I felt."

"Yeah but now you have to tell them."

"Yes, Pedro I was excited when they told me that I'd be working with you." You admitted on camera begrudgingly. Pedro's eyes disappeared as he smiled at the camera, your heart fluttered as his contagious emotion spread over to you. You quickly looked down at your cards. "Hm, who's a better acting partner? Me or Oscar Isaac?"

He shook his head repeating the word 'nope.' He was not about to get in trouble with his two friends, he reached over for the bottle and took a shot while you sat there dumbfounded with your mouth agape in amusement and utter shock. "You know what," You looked into the lens. "He only took that shot because he didn't want to hurt your feelings, Oscar."

Pedro snorted before throwing his head back, he quietly hissed as the alcohol burned his throat. You bounced your leg up and down as your eyes focused on the slender of his neck, the way his Adam's apple bobbed when he swallowed. You groaned internally. "Alright," He started. "Do we have to do boring questions?"

"You can ask anything you want." They reassured. He slowly nodded.

The back and forth continued, and a few more rounds of liquor entered both your systems— the both of you giggly and probably annoying the rest of the crew but you no longer cared. "Do you watch the TikTok edits that people make about you? And does it boost your ego?"

He closed his eyes in defeat. "Yes, I do watch them." He cringed. "Some of them are a little... you know..." Pedro wiggled his brows alluding to the fact that some videos were a little too thirsty. "But I love them all anyway. So thanks, guys."

It was his turn to ask, he cleared his throat and shuffled in his seat. You knew him like the back of your hand, he was nervous but what could he be nervous about? You were just asking each other goofy questions, nothing too weird. Right?

"Okay, am I the best kisser out of all your co-stars?" He asked. You tilted your head, eyes passing between him and the shot glass, wondering if you should say the truth or leave it to the imagination. You nodded your head keeping your lips sealed. "Am I really?"

He sounded almost shocked.

"Yeah, you are."

"No bullshit?"

"No bullshit Pascal."

He made a proud face. "How about out of all your little boyfriends?" Your eyes popped out of your head, he was getting a little too hasty. He watched as you slowly reached over to the bottles, it was quiet as you poured your drink of choice. You looked up at the ceiling and sighed. "Yes." You still took your shot pursing your lips and shaking your head as it went down.

He was taken aback, sure he asked the question but he expected you to take a shot instead of actually answering it. You shrugged putting your cards flat on the table. "Same question for you."

At this point the crew let them do what they want, the more natural it looked the better. Pedro shrugged. "Yeah, I'd say you're at the top of the list."

"Oooh, there's a list."

"Of course." He smugged. He tugged on his bottom lip, eyes scanning the entirety of your face. "Have you ever had a crush on a co-star?"

You covered your face, you were really laying everything on the table, in front of these strangers and soon for hundreds of thousands of people to see. "What are you getting at Pascal?"

"I'm just playing the game." He said with that not-so-innocent face. "Yes, I have a crush on a co-star?"

"I said had."

You smirked. "I know."

Now it was his turn to blush, he giggled nervously. "I have a crush on one of my co-stars too."

You turned your head away, you were nothing but a bundle of nerves. Pedro gently kicked you under the table and you returned the favour. Neither of you had any more questions... that could be asked on camera at least. "Well if you'll excuse us..." Pedro proceeded to stand up, he hooked his arm inviting you to wrap yours around it and you did not hesitate.

"We have some things to discuss. Make sure you guys check out our new movie. Byeeeee."

The producers stood there stunned at what just happened while you two skipped off. You could only imagine the response and chaos that this would cause.

I have to get these Pedro fics out of my system yall. I'm off tomorrow so hopefully ill post another one and then after that I'll update based on the poll (go vote if you'd like) if you liked this fic, feel free to like this fic. Comments and reblogs are appreciated. Peace and love

[disillusioneddanny]

People Watching (Jason/Danny)

Jason leaned back in his seat at the bookshop, his eyes no longer on his book but the couple in front of him.  They were around college age, from what Jason could see. He had started watching them when blond girl started laughing at a joke until she started to cry. It hadn’t been an all that funny joke, either but it was cute the way she seemed to hang on the brunet man’s every single word. From what Jason got from their eavesdropping, they had been together for four years. Or well, forty nine months since they had decided to loudly count out the months. 

She had a ring on her finger but she still called him her boyfriend. And they had talked about meeting in some class, metaphysical philosophy, the guy had supplied. Jason’s heart felt light as he listened to them, he was happy for them, he was. 

It was why he was watching them, why he was listening to the guy, his name was Jeremy, apparently, as he teased Hannah, the blond, about how she acted around the holidays. His heart felt light and he felt a longing that he recognized so insanely intimately. It was the same ache that he got any time he spent time people watching. 

He wanted to feel all that love and emotion for himself one day. Dreamt of the day that he would be able to be attached to the person he was holding, not just having someone warm his bed for the night. He wanted to fall without caution, to be so utterly in love with someone that he laughed at their bad jokes.  

He didn’t know if that would ever actually happen for him, though. How could it when he had screwed up so many things in his life? He had died, come back, become a murderer, a crime lord and practically ruined any chance he had at a normal life. Jason had dreams once upon a time, hopes that he wanted to accomplish one day. He had wanted to go to college and fall in love like the couple in front of him had. That wasn’t in the cards, though, not for someone who was still considered legally dead. 

“They’re so cute it’s disgusting,” a voice said with a snort. Jason looked up from his book to find someone taking a seat beside him on the plush couch, a coffee mug wrapped in their hands. “But yet, I still always get wistful when I see couples like that,” they said softly. 

“Yeah, me too,” Jason said quietly, picking up his mug of tea. 

“I’m Danny,” the man said as Jason took a moment to look over his new people watching partner. He was just a little shorter than Jason, dark black hair was pulled back into a bun at the back of his head. Jason could just barely see a hint of a tattoo peeking out from the collar of Dnany’s shirt. But the thing that really got him, was the crystal blue eyes that seemed to shine in the low lights of the cheesy hipster coffee shop they were sitting in.

“Jason,” the vigilante said with a small smile. “So, I’m assuming you’re a people watcher too?”

Danny let out a hum. “I suppose, I mean, I’m only looking just to live through them vicariously. I’ve never really been in love, at least not seriously,” he said quietly, his eyes glued to the couple, a familiar longing in his eyes. 

Jason gave him a small, tentative smile. “No I get it,” he said with a soft laugh as he looked back at the couple, the man now holding the woman’s hand in his and staring at her like she was the only person in the world. “I have a problem with cutting people out if they get too close. I end up all alone each time, but for some reason I just keep hoping that I’ll find it one day.”

Danny nodded and took a sip of his coffee before he looked over at Jason and gave him a kind smile. “It’s scary,” he admitted quietly. “To let someone get so close, to let them love you, even the bad parts of you that you try to keep hidden away.”

“It is,” Jason admitted, carefully closing his book, taking note of the page he had left it on. “It’s funny, I read so many romance novels, I love romantic comedies but to actually allow myself to feel vulnerable like that in my day to day life? It’s fuckin’ terrifying.”

At that, his new friend let out a soft laugh and nodded his head. “It’s so scary to let someone know me. It’s just so much safer to just not allow people to get close and know all of my secrets. But at the same time,  it’s all just so monotone and lonely,” he said, his eyes still shining with an unspoken sadness. 

Jason knew what he was going to say next was going to sound cheesy as fuck. Knew that there was a chance that Danny was going to laugh in his face. But he had to try, had to just give himself a moment to shoot his shot and see if maybe it would work. How could it not? Even if Danny didn’t know Jason’s exact problems or hangups, he still understood where Jason was coming from. Knew just as well at how terrifying it was to let someone know him. 

“I know we just met, and I started this conversation in a really depressing way,” Danny started, turning to fully look at Jason. “But I actually came over here to get to know you. I saw you when I was ordering my coffee and I just, I wanted to get to know you,” he said before his face turned a bright red as he looked down at his coffee and blushed. “I’m sorry, I’m being weird.”

“No,” Jason said with a small smile. “You’re not, not at all. I’d like to keep talking to you. You get it,” he said, feeling his own cheeks heat up slightly at the admission. 

“I get it,” Danny asked, the corners of his eyes crinkling. Jason just snorted and shook his head. “What are you reading?”

“Anna Karenina,” Jason admitted, showing the cover. “It’s considered one of the greatest pieces of literature ever written.”

Danny smiled, a beautiful thing showing off dimples in his cheeks. “Tell me about it? I’ve never read it.”

A wide grin spread on Jason’s face as he launched into an in depth summary about Anna Karenina and why it was one of his favorite novels of all time. 

Somehow a coffee meet cute turned into a coffee date, and then a coffee date turned into a dinner date. The dinner date led to Danny inviting Jason over for dinner and a movie. And that led to book dates and movie dates, it turned into spending more days at Danny’s house than he did at his safe houses. It led to nights in bed, the lights out and the blankets over their heads as they learned each others deepest secrets, whispering childhood stories and childhood traumas to one another in the safety of the dark. 

Jason found himself falling more and more as each day passed by. He found himself holding Danny in his arms as he dreamed about a house behind a picket fence, and started building a home for himself in Danny’s embrace. 

“I love you,” was whispered between the two of them late at night. Soon Jason found himself meeting Danny’s family, a sister and two best friends who were like siblings to him. And Danny found himself being dragged to the manor to meet the insane hoard of siblings and an emotionally repressed father. 

Secrets were passed between them, talks about their deaths, their lives as teen heroes, the desire to just have something normal. That led to the agreement of being one another’s something normal. 

It eventually led to Jason moving into Danny’s home, boxes carried between them and friends as they unpacked Jason’s things and melded their lives together. 

“I can’t believe we’re doing this,” Danny said with a laugh as he fell onto the couch beside Jason, throwing a blanket over their legs after. He smiled as he held out his hand to show off the silver band that Jason had just given him hours before. 

“I can’t believe you walked up to a random stranger to talk about people watching and it led to this,” Jason murmured, nipping at Danny’s earlobe. Danny snorted and turned his head to give the vigilante a soft kiss. 

“Worth it,” he murmured, cupping Jason’s face in his hands. “Completely and absolutely worth it.”

“I love you, Danny Todd,” Jason murmured, rubbing his nose against Danny’s.  

“I love you too, Jason Todd,” Danny whispered, his lips a hair’s breadth away from Jason’s. “Thanks for letting me in.”

Jason just smiled. “Thanks for not cutting me out,” he murmured before closing the distance between them and kissing his husband deeply.

Come chat with me on the new DPxDC 18+ SFW Discord Server! Dm me for an invite if you're 18 or older<3

[miraculouslbcnreactions]

What I find weird about Marinette's crush is that Origins has her not caring about Adrien being a celebrity or the son of a fashion designer she admires which sets it as being a normal crush on a person you know (who happens to be a celebrity) but then the rest of the show mostly treats it as a celebrity crush

There's a reason that I've often said that Origins the best writing that the show ever gave us. While it's not perfect, for me, it was the moment where the show suddenly got good and had true potential. My possibly far too generous read of that squandered potential is that the writers wanted to write a strong romance, but they used the wrong trope to guide that romance in the wider story, so we get a story that's the worst of both worlds. It fails to fit the mold that it's guiding trope is supposed to fit and it fails to be a strong romance because the chosen trope doesn't allow for a strong romance, so let's talk about why that is!

It's really common for formula shows with a teenage lead to have a character for that lead to crush on. Kim Possible had Kim crushing on Josh Mankey for the first few seasons. Phineas and Ferb gave Isabella a crush on Phineas and Candace a crush on Jeremy Johnson. Danny Phantom had Danny crushing on Paulina. I could keep going with examples because this is such standard trope! In fact, if you look at how these shows play these crushes, then you'll actually find a tame version of Marinette's writing where the crushes are often used for comedy.

The problem is that this trope is pretty much never used to develop a serious romance between two leads. It's either used to create tension between the true romantic leads or to give a character a little extra depth because people get crushes and it's a nice, relatable element for kids and teenagers.

The reason why you don't use this trope with romantic leads is because romantic leads are supposed to have an actual romance. We're supposed to watch them fall in love and be invested in their relationship! That simply doesn't fit the way this trope works because this trope is all about the experience of having a crush, not about the experience of truly falling in love.

To go back to the Kim Possible example, Josh Mankey is what TV tropes calls a "satellite love interest." He is truly just there to be shipped with Kim because she's a teenage girl and teenage girls have crushes so we need our cool teen girl heroine to have a cool crush. However, somewhere along the line, the writers decided that Kim and her partner Ron were going to be the end game couple. Once that choice was made, Mankey was out! But Kim didn't start treating Ron the same way that she'd treated Josh because Ron wasn't just a cute boy for our cool teenage lead to crush on. Her was her costar. A romance between them mattered as it's success would redefine the entire show! It's failure would straight up end the show! That meant that this couldn't be your standard teen romance. It needed to feel so much more real and powerful and lasting.

This is where Miraculous' problems come in. When we look at Origins, we can see that the writers really do want our romantic leads to feel like romantic leads. They want this romance to feel real and powerful. We can also look at season five to back this up. Once the square is together, they have some truly adorable moments. For example, the hand raise scene in Kwami's Choice was about the only good thing that episode gave us. We can even look at the final episode of season five to back this read. While it's generally a massive failure, it is all about Marinette's relationship to Adrien. He isn't just a cute boy that she's crushing on. He is massively impacting her life.

But when we look at the leadup to this romance happening? The things that took place between Origins and Kwami's Choice? There's nothing of substances. I can't even tell you why Adrien's crush flipped to Marinette or if Marinette's crush on Chat Noir was supposed to feel like anything more than a rebound. There's not even much substance once they get together because substance would require them to have deep conversations about their lives and they can't do that while the secret identities remain a thing.

This is part of the wider problem that every side of the square feels like casual friends at best because the their story wasn't written like a romance. It was written like two sets of impossible crushes where the focus was on the struggle of having an unrequited crush and not the thrill of a romance. Adrien isn't Marinette's Ron, he's her Josh Mankey. Same goes for Ladybug and Chat Noir. While Ladynoir was closer than Adrienette, we never got moments that showed them as close friends with a bond like no other. Alya and Marinette are closer than any side of the square and that's a pretty massive writing failure for a rom-com unless Alya is secretly Marinette's end game romantic partner.

To continue our Kim Possible case study, Kim and Ron really don't feel like a couple for most of the show. For the first three seasons, the focus was on their friendship to the point where I didn't even think about shipping them when I first watched the show. But when the relationship suddenly happened in the final season? It still felt natural and right! Of course these two would get together! How did I not see that?

If Miraculous wanted to make the square feel like a true romance, then they needed to take a lesson from shows like Kim Possible. They need focus on making Ladynoir and Adrienette extremely strong friendships with a background element of pining and romantic tension. You could keep Marinette's failed confessions, but they should almost always fail into cute friendship moments like Adrienette gaming in Gamer. Same goes for Ladynoir with moments like that one episode where Chat Noir could have learned Ladybug's identity, but chose to respect her boundaries instead. These kind of moments keep us excited for the square because they make it feel like they're obviously meant to be. But when it's just Chat Noir hitting on Ladybug and failing to get a positive reaction or Marinette failing to even talk to Adrien? That's not love. That's a hopeless crush.

This doesn't mean getting rid of Alya. Kim Possible had a female best friend, too! Her name was Monique and I loved her, but Monique and Kim's relationship never felt more important than Kim's relationship with Ron. There was even an episode where Monique tried to replace Ron since he was unavailable and she failed hard because, without Ron, Kim can't be a hero. If you want another show to look at to see how the square should have been written, then I'd check out Danny Phantom. That show has an endgame couple - Danny and Sam - and their relationship always had a romantic tension to it, but it was primarily a friendship for most of the show. I'm not saying that these two shows were perfect, but they did a great job with the romance element and show how Miraculous could have made the square work.

There are actually a lot of ways that show's like Kim Possible could have inspired and guided Miraculous. It's why I like using it as an example where I can. It's really sad to see a 2016 show failing so hard when there's a wildly successful 2002 show out there that had already shown how to succeed when using similar concepts. Marinette and Kim are even similar characters as are Adrien and Ron and even Plagg and Rufus. The template was out there, guys! Kim Possible even shows us how to take a comedy side kick and develop him into something more as the series goes on. Episode one Ron and end of show Ron aren't the same character. End of show Ron feels way more important!

This is also why it's so useful to study tropes. They're the building blocks of stories so it's very useful to understand why certain builds are popular so that you know when and where to use them. Don't like a trope? That's totally fine, but you generally want to start by asking "why is this popular" instead of just dismissing the trope all together assuming you're working in a genre where that trope dominates. Like I'm personally not a big fan of the satellite love interest, but I appreciate why they're a thing and understand when you should use them.

[florencetypemaniacs]

NSFW

It's the cast's birthday! So the Mc just wraps themself up in ribbons, top it off with a cute bow and wait for their lover to come home!

How would the Ro's react to it?

NSFW ⚠️ Mild

💛 Marcel

Marcel hadn't thought you had anything planned, and while he still liked to remember his birthday, he never got to celebrate it. Now he had you, and that made Marcel feel like he was walking on air. 

So for his birthday, he planned the most relaxing evening with you, a nice homemade meal with the help of Tai, a pint of ice cream for each of you, and a romantic comedy that Marcel had his eye on for a while. 

So when he opened the door to find you lounging on the sofa with a smirk on your face, he almost dropped the bag he was holding. 

"Well, hello, birthday boy." 

Everything clicked into place, and Marcel melted into a puddle of sweet affection, awaiting arousal as he sat beside you, a smile so bright on his face.

"I didn't think you had anything planned." He said, his lips ghosting over your own, and you felt yourself shiver. 

"It's your special day, Marcel." 

Marcel shook his head and kissed you deeply, slowly leaving you breathless before whispering in your ear. 

"Every day is special with you." 

🧡 Margaret 

Margaret loved birthdays. Each one when she was alive made her feel like she was the most special person in the room, and her parents made sure of that. 

The presents were big. 

The decorations hung perfectly.

The sweets that lined the table every year. 

If only she knew that such a glamorous life would be the cause of her death. 

Margaret still acknowledged her birthday, it was a time to share with the people you loved and cared for, but she couldn't find it in herself to have a big party. 

No. All she wanted was you. 

She craved your comfort and affection like a starving man for a hot meal. 

Margaret practically ran up the stairs to your room, to see you. To feel your warmth on an emotionally confusing day only to be met with yourself tied In a pretty pink ribbon that did nothing to hide your naked form. 

Margaret felt her back hit the closed door, and a smug smile crossed your face. 

"Well, hello, birthday girl."

And Margaret was gone, anything that she was going to say left her mind as soon as she saw you.

"What are you doing?" Margaret squeaked out, and you laughed. 

"I thought I would give you your present early. Do you like it?" You twirled around, and Margaret felt like she was going to faint. 

Your girlfriend took a few more deep, long breaths before looking at you with such genuine love that it took you aback. 

"I don't just like it." Margaret kissed you softly and tenderly. "I love it." 

❤️ Owen 

Owen didn't celebrate his birthday. Parties were for the rich, for the lucky when he was alive, and there wasn't much to celebrate anyway. Hell, if his father didn't complain about selling his favorite mule every year to feed the baby he was left with, then Owen would probably never know his birthday. 

Although Owen could feel you had something planned, he didn't know what, but the looks he sent you made the wheels turn in his head. First, he wondered if it was a surprise party, but Margaret didn't give away anything, which wouldn't have been possible if she was given a secret. 

Then there was Marcel, who had to go report back to his Lord, and Owen knew that the sappy bastard wouldn't miss a party for his friend for anything. 

So when Owen opened the door to the bedroom to find you wearing nothing but a flimsy ribbon and a bow awkwardly on your hair, he wasn't that surprised, just giving you a look up and down. 

"Like what you see, birthday boy?" 

"Aye, Lass/Duck/Lad. I like this present very much." Owen said, closing the door behind him with his foot. 

Your boyfriend played with the ribbons, his eyes hungry, and your body began to shake with anticipation. 

"Ye didn't have to go all through this trouble just for me," Owen said with a quiet, gruff tone. 

"Of course I did, Owen. You deserve to have a happy birthday. 

Owen took the bow off your head. "Bloody hell, lass/Duck/lad I never felt happier than with you." 

💙 Rosemary 

Rosemary knew you were up to something. She could read that you had some sort of trick, and knowing that it was her birthday, she had a few ideas of what that could be. 

Her family was poor, so birthdays were about spending time with family, talking, and sharing, Her parents always tried to make them special. 

And while she didn't celebrate her birthday other than with an acknowledgment and a few gifts, she didn't find it that big of a deal. 

That was until she walked into your bedroom to find you in such a seductive state. 

Rosemary smirked as she played with the ribbon. "All tied up for me, handsome/angel face/dollface?" 

You nodded. "I thought it would make your birthday special." 

Rosemary kissed your forehead. "Oh, love, you already make my life special by just being with me, but if you need me to prove it to you." Rosemary gracefully threw the bow to the floor. "I will just have to unwrap you." 

🩵 Tai

Tai sighed as he walked through the door, his eyes drooping when he saw you. 

With just a ribbon and a ridiculous bow on your head, he became wide awake. 

You snickered as your boyfriend's mouth was wide open, his eyes practically bulging out of his head. 

"What are you doing?" His voice came out more like a croaked-out whisper than he meant for it to. 

"Oh, I thought the birthday boy would like to unwrap his present." 

Tai tried to keep his face blank, but he was failing miserably as his face was a bright red. Tai honestly completely forgot that it was his birthday, much less thought you even remembered. Between work and his hellish duties, it completely slipped his mind, and now you were sitting in his office with basically nothing except that shit-eating grin. 

"No need to be so smug," Tai whispered as he closed the door behind him, locking it, then stepped closer to you. 

"Me? Smug? How could I not be when I won." You said, purring in his ear, and Tai breathed in your sweet smell of baked goods. 

Tai's eyes narrowed at your tone. "Won what?" 

You wrapped his arms around Tai's neck and gave him a light kiss. "I got the workaholic doctor to take a night off." 

Tai easily picked you up, which left you gasping in surprise. "Who says what I am going to do isn't work?" 

You played with his tie as he placed you on the examination table, legs apart. "You think of this as a job?" Your tone was teasing. 

Tai got on his knees, kissing your most sensitive skin and letting a moan escape you. 

"You're worth all the time," Tai whispered against your skin. 

💚 Zane 

Zane hated his birthday. First off, he never knew what it was when he was growing up. His teacher thought the idea of birthdays was a childish thing. something that was a distraction. 

Zane wished he hadn't dug deeper, but he had to. To find just a small piece of himself and of his old life, only to find out that the same day he was given life was on the date that his mother's ended. 

Zane hated birthdays. 

So the moment he woke up that morning, he was in an angry mood, as everyone could tell. Zane's crude jokes were lacking, so he couldn't blame you when you disappeared. 

The blonde opened the bedroom door, hoping that you were back from wherever you went to find you naked and lying on the bed, creasing yourself. 

The green ribbon tied around you, covering nothing and still hiding anything in a way that left Zane gripping the door knob. 

"I know you don't like your birthday, so I thought I would make it a little better." Your voice came out shy and sheepish, almost like you didn't know if this was somehow crossing a boundary, even though it involved you naked in his bed, a boundary that didn't exist in Zane's book. You were always welcomed in his bed.  

Zane breathed in and out. He had to remember to breathe, or he would hobble over. 

You were trying to make him feel better. 

You were trying to make him happy. 

That was enough for Zane to tear the ribbon off with his teeth. 

[watchingblsnowandforever]

Hello!!

I'm back to crack posting about my favourite shows and/or characters! =D

We Are ep 8 was gold. It had comedy, friendship, silliness and romance in the absolute perfect amounts.

Warning: long post 😊😅

This scene with Peem and Matt is peak comedy. I rewatched it so many times hehe

Phum: I'm gonna ignore every inch of space to stand right beside you. <3

Peem: *bombastic side eye*

Also Peem: *leans into him*

Khaofang woke up today and chose violence 😭👍🏼

Let's be honest though, that was not the sibling we'd expected to throw fists.

Meanwhile, Toey: that's my hia Fang 😊

Isn't that the million dollar question Mick 😭

If they got together already, how would the series run for 16 eps 😭

Toey with his hias ^ (also Matt edging him on like he's in a competition I'm dying 😭)

Toey with his P'Q:

However savage Q may be, he still shares the same braincell with his friends 😭👍🏼

IT WAS SO MEAN OF THEM TO MAKE MATT PAY WHEN THEY'VE HARDLY EVEN TAKEN A SIP! T-T

Peem before, when Phum even touched him: LET GO YOU ASSHOLE

Peem now: *fond, indulging smile* what do you want to do?

*shakes head with a sigh* boys in love ay

The motorcycle 'hold me tightly' trope being reused with a bicycle aka how to make them sit even closer

Peem saying so-so when Phum asks if he looks handsome: Peem, babe, you were the one who called him handsome first remember? 😭

What secretly. Phum was about as subtle as a football directly hitting your painting (yes I think I'm very funny).

With all due respect, please get the f out and let my boys be. Please and thank you. :)

^This is the answer to any question about Pun. 😭👍🏼

This scene is so, so beautiful. I am absolutely loving how they’re giving friendship/platonic love as much importance as romantic love because yes. I've been waiting for a bl like this forever (or at least since I got into bls hehe-). Bad Buddy and MSP came close, but We Are took the trophy. They love each other so much. Kill for each other? Nah, they'd go together and make that person's life living hell, and that would make my day.

I really really love that they're still so silly with each other in college, and are close to and comfortable enough with each other to be able to be childish and play in the middle of the day, to be each other's safe space.

This friendship is so precious and close to my heart. Even more than the romantic parts of the story, this is what makes me want to watch this series every week to see what new shenanigans they've got up to.

I love them. So much.

Beer is me, I am Beer.

Smiling at them so softly. Oh, he knows. And he ships. 👍🏼

This scene was also so beautiful.

They've finally started acknowledging that there's something between them.

I think more than Phum being unable to express himself, he's taking small steps to guage how Peem reacts. He wants them to be on the same page before he takes the next step.

Like with the kiss, he didn't hesitate to talk about it, to tell how much it means to him and then kiss Peem again. But he waited until Peem kissed him first, and till he was sure that Peem wanted to talk about it.

I really like this about him. He's not taking a step back per se, just making sure that when he takes a step forward, he's not leaving Peem one step behind.

Phum explains again and again how Peem is his safe space (his dialogues this time reminding us of Peem's little speech to his own friends and Fang talking about why he likes Tan with Phum), to make sure Peem knows.

It's already been told to us how alone he's been most of his life, so Peem and his ragtag group of friends is very new for him, but it's fun, and it not only brings him closer to Peem but also a friend group - a support system he didn't really have before. Sure, he has Fang, Beer and Mick, and Tan, but it's nothing like this silly little group that puts paint on each other then plays with water and gets almost black out drunk on a regular basis.

Also, did anyone else notice the two matching rainbow coloured jars behind Peem here? No? 👀

Simp. (affectionate)

I always love these call scenes where one of them somehow travels through his cell phone to land in the other's bed hehe

Peem is so done with Phum and his branded fashion outfits 😭😭

"You were born in Thailand."

Pond and the "I'm Thai" meme 😭

wait.

A bl lead realising he likes someone (his romantic interest) all on his lonesome??

Colour me surprised!

I actually didn't think I'd get to see this happen ever in a Thai bl, but good for him lol

So that's that for this week! If you've gotten this far, thank you so much for reading! 😊

Here, have a bubble tea 🧋

[sebstanaddict]

Too Good To Be True

Sebastian Stan x Reader Story

Summary: A romantic comedy story where Sebastian Stan falls in love with reader but she is not who he thinks she is.

Switching back to her own body seemed impossible after reader consulted several witches. Torn between wanting to go back and accepting reality, she didn't have a choice but to accept her fate. When she went to Paris with Sebastian, for the first time in months she felt like she could breathe and be happy until something happened that turned her life around, again.

Pairings : Sebastian Stan x Female!Reader

Chapters : 25/28 (Might add more)

Chapter List >

Warning : none I think, let me know if you find anything

Word count : 6k words

---

Chapter 25 - Stuck, Forever

Stuck. Forever.

"Forever?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

Morgana shrugged helplessly. "Unless you can figure out a way to bring her back from the dead - which, by the way, is highly illegal in the magical community - then yeah, you and Aurora are kinda... locked in."

Y/n shot to her feet, her chair scraping against the floor. "That can't be true! There has to be another way!"

"Sweetheart," Morgana said, her tone still annoyingly chipper, "I'm good, but I'm not resurrect-the-dead good. I'm sorry."

Y/n's heart raced as she paced the room. "This can't be it. There has to be something - anything!"

Morgana stood and approached her cautiously, resting a hand on Y/n's shoulder. "I know this isn't what you wanted to hear, but sometimes magic comes with... consequences. Big ones."

Y/n looked at her, desperation etched across her face. "So that's it? I'm just supposed to live the rest of my life as someone I'm not?"

Morgana's eyes softened. "I don't make the rules, love. But maybe..." She hesitated, then smiled cryptically. "Maybe being stuck isn't the worst thing in the world. Sometimes, the universe knows what it's doing, even if we don't."

Y/n pulled away, her mind spinning. She stumbled toward the door, barely registering Morgana's parting words.

"If you ever need more tea or, you know, a shoulder to cry on, you know where to find me!" Morgana called cheerfully as Y/n stepped outside.

—

The bright Los Angeles sunlight felt blinding as Y/n walked back to her car, the witch's words echoing in her head.

Forever.

The reality of it settled over her like a crushing weight. For the second time since the switch, Y/n truly allowed herself to imagine a life where she could never return to her own body. The first time she considered it was on Sebastian's birthday, when she didn't know her mother's condition and when she was fully in love with Sebastian. Naturally, she was ecstatic about it. But now, now everything changed and she wasn't sure about it as much as she was before. She imagined how she would never hear her mother call her by her name again, how her father would always see her as a stranger and how she would never feel the comfort of being herself.

And then there was Sebastian - the one person who made this strange, borrowed life bearable. Could she let go of him if it meant finding a way back? Or was she destined to stay in this body, in this life, forever?

She sat behind the wheel of her car, gripping the steering wheel so tightly her knuckles turned white.

The tears came suddenly and without warning, blurring her vision. She took a shuddering breath and tried to pull herself together, but the witch's words rang louder and louder in her mind.

Stuck. Forever.

"No!" She refused to think that this was it. There had to be another way.

She pulled out the paper containing the list of all the witches and spiritual healers Aurora had gathered and checked the addresses. She decided to go to each one and find more answers. There were four more on the list and she set out to go to each one.

—

First Stop: Madame Belladonna's Mystic Emporium

The first name on the list led her to a shop nestled between a laundromat and a bakery. The sign above the door read Madame Belladonna: Purveyor of Truths & Mystical Remedies. Inside, it smelled like burnt sage and vanilla, with strings of crystals hanging from the ceiling.

Madame Belladonna, a plump woman in her 60s with a sharp bob and leopard-print scarf, greeted her with an overly dramatic wave of her hand.

"Welcome, seeker of truths! What brings you to my realm of enlightenment?"

Y/n hesitated, unsure how to phrase her predicament. "I... swapped bodies with someone, and I need to switch back."

Madame Belladonna tilted her head, her perfectly penciled eyebrows arching in surprise. "Body-swapping? My, my, how retro. Haven't heard of one of those in decades."

Y/n tried to keep her patience. "Can you help me or not?"

The older woman sighed theatrically, pulling out a thick tome that looked older than time itself. After flipping through pages, she finally closed it with a thud.

"Ah, darling, I would love to help, but this spell requires the original caster's intervention. Without them, you're stuck. Next!"

Y/n stormed out, gritting her teeth. "Great start."

---

Second Stop: Seraphina's Underground Sanctum

The next address took her to a dingy basement in a run-down apartment building. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of damp earth and incense. Candles flickered ominously, casting shadows that seemed to move on their own.

Seraphina, a gaunt woman with piercing green eyes and a habit of whispering to herself, sat cross-legged on a rug covered in cryptic symbols.

"You wish to undo the tethering spell?" she rasped before Y/n could say anything.

"Yes! Is there any way to do it without the original witch?"

Seraphina stared at her for a long, uncomfortable moment, then shook her head slowly. "No. The magic is unique to the caster. No one else can untie the knot."

"But she's dead!" Y/n exclaimed, her voice echoing in the small space.

"Then so is your chance to return," Seraphina said, her voice eerily calm.

A shiver ran down Y/n's spine as she left the sanctum.

---

Third Stop: Zara the Alchemist

Zara's place was a stark contrast to the previous two - a modern, sleek studio with polished marble counters and rows of meticulously labeled jars filled with herbs and powders. Zara herself was in her 30s, wearing a lab coat over a black jumpsuit, her hair pulled into a tight bun.

"I don't do hocus-pocus," Zara said bluntly when Y/n explained her situation. "I'm an alchemist, not a witch. Big difference."

"Well, can alchemy fix this?" Y/n asked, hopeful for once.

Zara pursed her lips, tapping a finger against a beaker. "Not likely. Body-swapping is pure witchcraft. No amount of potions or powders can reverse it without the original caster."

Y/n slumped into a chair. "So that's it? I'm stuck?"

Zara hesitated, her clinical demeanor softening. "I'm sorry, but unless you can find someone with the same magical signature... You're out of luck."

Y/n nodded, defeated but appreciative of Zara's honesty.

---

Fourth Stop: Madame Nocturna's Enchanted Parlor

The final place was the eeriest yet. Madame Nocturna's parlor was dimly lit, with thick velvet curtains blocking out all natural light. The air smelled of roses and something metallic, and a low hum of chanting filled the room.

Madame Nocturna, a regal woman with long silver hair and crimson robes, sat on a throne-like chair surrounded by glowing orbs. She watched Y/n approach with an unsettlingly calm gaze.

"You seek to undo a forbidden act," she said, her voice as smooth as silk.

Y/n nodded. "Yes, I need to reverse the effects of a body-swapping potion."

Nocturna leaned forward, her sharp nails tapping the arm of her chair. "Such magic is delicate and dangerous. You would need the original caster to make the antidote. Without the original caster, it cannot be undone. Even attempting to replicate their spell could have... catastrophic consequences."

Y/n's heart sank. "Catastrophic? Like what?"

"Your soul could shatter, leaving both bodies empty. Or worse, you could be tethered to the wrong body forever."

Y/n swallowed hard, her throat dry. "So there's really no way?"

Madame Nocturna shook her head slowly. "None that would not risk destroying you."

---

By the time Y/n left Madame Nocturna's parlor, the weight of reality had settled on her shoulders. Each witch had given her the same answer, crushing her hopes a little more with every visit.

As she walked back to her car, the sinking sun casting long shadows, she muttered to herself, "If they can't help, who can?"

But deep down, she already knew the answer. No one could.

She sank into her car's seat and decided to tell Aurora about it. Maybe she has other ideas.

Taking a deep breath, she tapped Aurora's number. The phone rang, each chime amplifying her anxiety, until Aurora finally answered.

"Hello?" Aurora's voice was calm, almost serene.

"It's me," Y/n said, her voice shaky. "I - I just met with the witches on the list."

Aurora's tone softened. "What did they say?"

Y/n clenched her jaw, struggling to form the words. "They said... we can't switch back." Her voice cracked, tears threatening to spill. "They said we need the original witch to reverse the effects of the potion. Without her, it's impossible. But you know she's dead. So.."

There was a pause on the other end, long enough for Y/n to expect an explosion of anger or panic. But instead, Aurora spoke with unnerving composure.

"I see."

Y/n froze. "That's it? That's all you have to say?"

"What do you want me to say?" Aurora replied, her tone almost breezy. "If the witches say it's impossible, then it's impossible. There's no use in getting worked up over something we can't change."

Y/n gripped the phone tighter, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "How can you be so calm about this? Don't you care? Don't you want your life back?"

Aurora hesitated, then sighed. "Of course I care," she said, though there was a strange detachment in her voice. "But... maybe this isn't the worst thing."

"What the hell does that mean?" Y/n demanded, her voice rising.

Aurora's tone was measured, almost philosophical. "Your family is kind, Y/n. They've been nothing but supportive since this happened. I don't feel like I'm constantly being judged or ridiculed anymore. For the first time in my life, I feel... accepted."

Y/n's breath caught. "So, you're saying you'd rather keep my life?"

"No, that's not what I'm saying," Aurora said, though her voice wavered. "I just... I'm not sure I want to go back to my life. To my mom, dad, Edith, to all their expectations and condescension. Do you have any idea what it's like to feel like you're never good enough?"

Y/n thought of Edith's biting remarks and the way Emily had undermined her every move. She did understand - more than she ever wanted to.

"And besides," Aurora continued, "you have Sebastian. He loves you, even if he thinks you're me. Isn't that worth holding onto?"

Y/n's heart ached at the mention of Sebastian. "That's not the point, Aurora," she said quietly. "This isn't the life I chose."

"And neither is this one," Aurora countered. "But maybe... maybe this is the life we were meant to have."

Y/n stared blankly out the windshield, her mind reeling. It wasn't just their bodies that had swapped. Aurora was different now - calmer, more reflective. The sharp edges of her personality had softened, and it was unsettling.

The Aurora she used to know would have fought tooth and nail to get her life back. But this Aurora... this Aurora almost seemed content.

"You've changed," Y/n said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Aurora chuckled softly. "So have you. Maybe this swap was never just about our bodies. Maybe it's about learning how to live the lives we were always too scared to face."

Y/n bit her lip, tears welling in her eyes. "I don't know if I can do this," she admitted.

"You can," Aurora said firmly. "You've already done more than I ever could. And... maybe that's why this happened. Maybe you're better at being me than I ever was."

The words stung, though Y/n couldn't deny their truth.

"I'll figure it out," Y/n said finally, her voice hollow. "I don't have a choice, do I?"

"No," Aurora replied, her tone gentle but unwavering. "Neither of us do. But I think you'll be okay. We both will."

Y/n let out a shaky breath, wiping away a stray tear. "Take care of my parents," she said softly.

Aurora's voice softened. "I will. And... take care of Sebastian."

The mention of his name twisted something deep inside Y/n. "Goodbye, Aurora," she said, her voice barely audible.

"Goodbye," Aurora replied, the line going dead.

—

Y/n sat in the silence of her car, the conversation replaying in her mind. Aurora's calmness, her acceptance, her newfound serenity - it all felt alien, like she wasn't the same person Y/n had known before this nightmare began.

It wasn't just their bodies that had changed. Their personalities, their perspectives, their very identities had shifted in ways Y/n could barely comprehend.

Maybe this is the life we were meant to have.

Aurora's words lingered, a bitter pill that Y/n wasn't ready to swallow. But as she sat there, staring at the list in her lap, she realized she didn't have a choice.

This is my life now.

The thought sent a shiver down her spine, but deep in her heart, she knew it was true.

She started the car and pulled away from the curb, the weight of her new reality pressing down on her like a storm cloud. There was no going back. All she could do now was move forward and hope - pray - that she could find a way to make this life her own.

—

Paris - two days later

The low hum of the plane's engines filled the cabin as the flight descended toward Paris. Outside the window, the city of lights sparkled faintly against the darkening sky, but Y/n barely noticed. Her head rested against the window, her gaze unfocused, thoughts swirling in an endless loop.

Sebastian, seated next to her, had been quietly observing her. He noticed the subtle ways she seemed...off. The way her smile didn't quite reach her eyes when the flight attendant complimented her, the way she barely touched her in-flight meal, and how she sighed every few minutes as if weighed down by something invisible.

He leaned closer, his voice soft. "You've been quiet. Is everything okay, Aurora?"

She turned to face him, startled for a moment before forcing a smile. "Of course. Just tired from the flight."

Sebastian wasn't convinced. His blue eyes searched hers as if trying to peel back the layers of whatever she was hiding. "You sure? You've seemed...I don't know, distracted these past few days. Did something happen before we left LA?"

Y/n hesitated. She couldn't possibly tell him the truth - that her life felt like a fractured puzzle, the weight of the body-swapping secret pressing down on her. Instead, she reached for his hand, squeezing it gently. "I'm fine, really. It's just...a lot to take in. Shooting a movie in Paris, you know? It's overwhelming."

Sebastian smiled, though a flicker of doubt lingered in his eyes. "Okay. But if there's something bothering you, you know you can talk to me, right?"

"I know," she said, her voice softer now. "Thank you, mi rey."

The announcement came over the intercom that they were about to land. Y/n took a deep breath, mentally pushing away the turmoil. She had to focus on the moment. Paris. Sebastian. The movie.

---

The bustling energy of the airport hit them as soon as they stepped off the plane. Travelers hurried past with suitcases, announcements echoed from the speakers, and the aroma of freshly baked croissants wafted from nearby cafés.

Sebastian adjusted his carry-on bag and glanced at Y/n, who was looking around with a mixture of awe and distraction. "Welcome to Paris, mi reina," he said with a grin, nudging her playfully.

She laughed, the sound lighter than it had been in days. "Paris, finally."

"Finally," he echoed, watching her closely as they walked toward baggage claim.

Y/n tried to immerse herself in the moment, taking in the sights and sounds of the airport. She let herself smile as Sebastian made a joke about how the French language made even the word "baggage" sound romantic.

"Come on, say it," he teased, holding up his phone with a translation app open. "Bagage. Ba-ga-zh. It's practically poetry!"

Y/n giggled, shaking her head. "You're ridiculous."

"That's why you like me," he quipped, his arm brushing against hers as they walked.

For a moment, she let herself believe she could keep this facade of normalcy. The weight of Morgana's revelation, the dead ends with the other witches, and the growing realization that she might never get her body back - not that she missed it much - it all felt distant here, drowned out by Sebastian's presence and the excitement of being in Paris.

As they reached the arrival terminal, paparazzi cameras flashed in the distance, but Sebastian casually wrapped an arm around her shoulders, shielding her from the chaos.

"Ready for this?" he asked.

Y/n nodded, mustering her brightest smile. "Ready as I'll ever be."

But deep inside, she knew she wasn't ready for any of it.

They hopped into a sleek black car the production company had rented for them. An hour later the car pulled up in front of an opulent hotel, its grand façade gleaming in the late afternoon sunlight. The doorman opened the door for them, and Y/n stepped out, immediately in awe of the grandeur before her.

"Wow," she breathed, craning her neck to take in the marble columns, intricate gold detailing, and enormous crystal chandeliers visible through the glass doors.

Sebastian grinned as he joined her on the curb. "Only the best for you, mi reina."

She laughed, nudging him playfully. "Are you trying to impress me, mi rey?"

"Always," he replied with a wink, slipping his hand into hers as they entered the hotel.

The lobby was just as stunning - polished floors that reflected the light of towering chandeliers, lavish flower arrangements, and plush seating areas that looked like they belonged in a palace. A concierge greeted them warmly, guiding them to the check-in desk, where Sebastian handled everything with ease, exchanging a few words in French that made Y/n raise her eyebrows in surprise.

"You've been holding out on me," she teased once they were in the elevator.

He shrugged, feigning modesty. "What can I say? I've got layers."

When the elevator doors opened, Y/n stepped into their suite and gasped. The living area was expansive, with velvet furniture, a glittering chandelier, and floor-to-ceiling windows that led to a private balcony.

"Oh my God," she whispered, wandering through the room. "This is...this is insane."

Sebastian leaned against the doorway, watching her with a satisfied smile. "You like it?"

"Like it? I love it!" she exclaimed, practically running to the balcony. She threw open the doors, stepping out into the crisp evening air, and there it was - the Eiffel Tower, standing majestic against the Parisian skyline, its lights beginning to twinkle as dusk settled.

Sebastian joined her, slipping an arm around her waist. "Perfect view, huh?"

"Perfect," she agreed, her voice soft with awe. For the first time in weeks, the heaviness in her chest lifted, replaced by pure, unfiltered joy. She turned to Sebastian, her eyes shining. "Thank you for this."

"You don't have to thank me," he said, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You deserve it."

Her heart swelled as she leaned in, and their lips met in a kiss - sweet, tender, and full of unspoken emotions. For a moment, the world faded away, leaving just the two of them and the magic of Paris.

But the buzzing of her cellphone broke the spell. Y/n reluctantly pulled away, glancing at the screen. It was Aurora.

"Sorry, I need to take this," she said, stepping back inside the suite.

Sebastian nodded, though his eyes lingered on her with concern as she disappeared into the living room.

Y/n swiped to answer the call, her heart racing. "Aurora?"

"Hey," Aurora's voice came through, calm but tinged with something that made Y/n's breath catch. "I have news. About your mom."

Y/n's grip on the phone tightened. "What? Is she okay? What happened?"

"It's good news," Aurora said, her tone softening. "The treatment worked. The cancer isn't spreading anymore. Her blood work came back clean."

"Oh my God. Oh my God, Aurora." Y/n's voice shook, her free hand covering her mouth as a sob escaped her.

"She's not out of the woods yet," Aurora continued gently. "The doctors say she'll need radiation and surgery to clear out the dead cancer cells, but...they're optimistic. They think she's going to be okay."

Tears streamed down Y/n's face as she choked out a laugh of pure relief. "I can't believe it. I - I don't even know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything," Aurora replied. "She's your mom, Y/n. I'd do it all again in a heartbeat. Besides...I really like her. She's so kind, and - well, let's just say she's nothing like my own mother."

Y/n sniffled, trying to compose herself. "Thank you, Aurora. I mean it. Thank you for being there for her. For being there for my dad."

"Of course," Aurora said softly. "She's your family. And besides...she's become mine too."

They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of everything they'd been through hanging between them.

"You okay?" Aurora asked after a beat.

"Yeah," Y/n whispered, wiping her tears. "For the first time in weeks...I think I am."

When Y/n hung up the phone, she found Sebastian waiting for her in the doorway, his brow furrowed with concern.

"Everything okay?" he asked, stepping toward her.

Y/n nodded, a wide smile breaking across her tear-streaked face. "It's better than okay. The treatment worked. Y/n's mom is going to be okay."

Sebastian's face lit up, and he pulled her into a tight hug. "That's amazing, mi reina."

She buried her face in his chest, her laughter mingling with her tears. For the first time in what felt like forever, she could breathe again.

—

That evening, Sebastian took her to one of the most exclusive restaurants in Paris. The flickering candlelight, the soft murmur of French being spoken around them, and the stunning view of the Seine made it feel like something out of a dream.

Y/n laughed as Sebastian attempted to pronounce the French menu, his exaggerated mistakes making her sides ache. He reached across the table to take her hand, his thumb brushing lightly against her knuckles.

"You seem lighter," he said, his voice gentle. "Happier."

"I am," she admitted, her smile softening. "For the first time in weeks, I feel like...like everything might actually be okay."

Sebastian squeezed her hand, his eyes warm and full of love. "It will be. I promise."

And for that night, Y/n let herself believe it.

—

By The Seine River - the next day

The streets of Paris were alive with their usual charm, yet the quiet hum of a film set made it feel like a stage ready for magic. The crew bustled around, adjusting cameras, setting up reflective screens, and perfecting the lighting to capture every detail of the city's beauty.

Maya Carver, the sharp-eyed and quick-witted director, stood by the monitors. "Alright, people," she called, her voice calm yet commanding. "This scene has to feel like Paris is their playground. We're capturing love, tension, and the city's soul all in one. Let's make it happen."

Y/n stood off to the side, adjusting the light scarf her character Celeste Nichols wore. The cool breeze brushed her cheeks, and she felt a surge of nervous excitement. Beside her, Sebastian - or rather, Mike Taylor - leaned against a lamppost, his athletic frame clad in casual yet stylish wear. The faint tension in his eyes mirrored the conflict his character carried.

"You ready, Celeste?" he asked in Mike's soft, gravelly tone, slipping effortlessly into character.

Y/n smiled faintly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Always, Mike."

Maya clapped her hands. "Positions, everyone! Let's roll."

—

The Seine shimmered beneath the soft morning sunlight, reflecting the grandeur of Paris in its rippling waters. Tour boats glided lazily along the river, their passengers pointing at the iconic sights that framed the city's soul. Mike and Celeste strolled side by side, the rhythm of their footsteps mingling with the faint echoes of accordion music from a nearby street performer.

Mike looked gaunt, his complexion pale under the morning light. His usual energetic gait had slowed, his shoulders slumping slightly. Celeste couldn't help but notice the way he pressed a hand to his abdomen every so often, his jaw tightening as though he was warding off nausea.

"Mike," she said gently, breaking the silence. "Are you okay? You've been...off lately."

He forced a smile, one that didn't quite reach his eyes. "I'm fine, Celeste. Just tired. Tomorrow's race is on my mind."

"Tired?" she repeated, her tone tinged with disbelief. "You look like you're about to keel over. You've been like this for weeks now."

"I told you, it's just the pressure."

She stopped walking, tugging on his arm to make him face her. "This isn't just pressure. You're sick. I know you've been...using."

He stiffened, his expression defensive. "Celeste, we've talked about this. I need it. It's the edge I need to win."

Her eyes softened, though her voice held firm. "You don't need it, Mike. Not if it's destroying you like this. Promise me you'll stop. Please."

His gaze dropped to the ground, his lips pressing into a thin line. After a long pause, he nodded. "I promise."

But deep down, the pang of guilt twisted in his gut. The thought of giving up the only thing that kept him competitive terrified him more than he could admit.

She sighed, her worry evident. "You've always put cycling first. But what's the point of winning if it costs you your health? Or...us?"

Her words lingered, heavier than the morning air. He reached for her hand, squeezing it tightly. "I hear you, Celeste. I do. After tomorrow, things will change. I'll quit racing, I swear."

She looked up at him, searching his face for the truth. Finally, she smiled faintly, though the worry never left her eyes. "Okay," she whispered. "I'll hold you to that."

As they resumed walking, the shadow of unspoken doubts followed them, but Mike's grip on her hand tightened, grounding him to the one person who mattered most.

—

The next scene took them aboard a bright red tourist bus. The crew crammed themselves into the lower deck while Maya gave instructions through her headset. The camera focused on Mike and Celeste sitting on the upper deck, surrounded by the beauty of Paris.

The iconic red bus rumbled down the cobblestone streets, weaving through Paris's historic landmarks. Celeste leaned out slightly, the wind catching her hair as she pointed excitedly at the sights.

"Look, there's Notre Dame!" she exclaimed, nudging Mike, who sat beside her.

He smiled weakly, his head resting against the back of his seat. "You've got enough energy for both of us," he said, his tone playful but tinged with exhaustion.

She frowned, leaning closer. "You're really not okay, are you?"

"Celeste, I'm fine," he said, his irritation breaking through momentarily before softening. "Sorry. I just...I'll be better after tomorrow."

Her hand found his knee, squeezing it reassuringly. "You'd better be. Because after this race, I'm dragging you to the doctor, whether you like it or not."

They both laughed, though hers was tinged with concern, and his felt more like a deflection.

The bus made its stop at the Louvre, and they disembarked, walking toward the sprawling glass pyramid that stood like a beacon of art and history. Celeste's eyes lit up as they entered the courtyard, the sheer magnitude of the museum captivating her.

"Can you believe we're here?" she asked, spinning around to take it all in.

Mike chuckled, watching her with a mix of affection and melancholy. "You're like a kid in a candy store."

"Because it's incredible! All this history, all this beauty..." She paused, turning to him. "It's the kind of thing you want to share with someone you love."

Her words struck him like a blow. She meant them innocently, but they reverberated in his mind, stirring something deep within him.

As they wandered through the halls, pausing at the Mona Lisa and other masterpieces, Celeste chattered enthusiastically about the art, her joy infectious. Mike tried to keep up, but his thoughts kept drifting.

Watching her marvel at the paintings, her eyes wide with wonder, he realized something he hadn't allowed himself to fully acknowledge. Winning the Tour de France might have been his lifelong dream, but none of it mattered if he lost her in the process.

He stopped in the middle of a corridor, grabbing her hand. "Celeste."

She turned, surprised by the intensity in his voice. "What is it?"

"I meant what I said earlier. After this race, I'm done. I'm quitting cycling. No more doping, no more chasing something that doesn't matter. You're what matters. You always have been."

Her expression softened, tears welling in her eyes. "Mike..."

"Just let me get through tomorrow," he said, his voice cracking slightly. "One last race. And then I'm yours, completely."

She smiled through her tears, nodding. "You've always been mine, Mike. You just didn't realize it."

They embraced tightly, the grandeur of the Louvre around them serving as a fitting backdrop for a promise that felt like the start of a new chapter. But as Mike held her close, he couldn't shake the lingering doubt in his heart - could he really let go of everything he'd built his life around?

—

Later that evening - under the Eiffel Tower

The evening sky over Paris glowed in shades of violet and indigo, the city lights twinkling like stars against the fading dusk. The Eiffel Tower loomed above them, a majestic silhouette against the darkening sky, its golden lights sparkling like a beacon of hope and love. The streets were bustling, the sound of distant laughter and chatter mixing with the faint hum of Parisian life, but under the tower, there was a stillness - a quiet that felt almost sacred.

Mike and Celeste stood hand in hand, their gazes fixed on the towering structure in front of them. Celeste's heart raced, though not from the excitement of the day's tour or the beauty of the city, but from the quiet intensity that had built between them all day. Mike's presence beside her felt like the only thing that mattered, even in the city that pulsed with energy.

Mike stood a little apart from her now, his expression serious, almost distant, as if he was steeling himself for something monumental. Celeste's heart skipped in her chest, sensing the shift in the air.

"Mike?" she asked softly, her voice laced with a mix of concern and curiosity.

He turned to face her, his eyes searching hers for a moment, as if weighing something heavy. He swallowed hard, his chest rising and falling as he seemed to gather the words.

"Celeste," he began, his voice rough with emotion. "I've spent my whole life chasing something... something that I thought would define me. Winning, racing, being the best. But somewhere along the way, I lost sight of what truly matters."

She frowned slightly, the words he spoke echoing in the hollow space between them.

"You're right. I've put cycling ahead of everything - my health, my happiness... and you. Especially you," Mike continued, his voice cracking slightly. "But I realized today, looking at you, listening to you talk about this beautiful city, watching you light up the way you do when you love something.."

He stepped forward, his hands trembling slightly as he took hers in his.

"Celeste, you are everything to me. I don't need to win any more races to know that you are the one thing I can't lose. I don't want to keep racing. I don't want to keep pretending that any of this matters if I don't have you by my side. You've made me feel like I can be more than just a cyclist."

Celeste's breath caught in her throat, tears welling in her eyes, the city around them fading into nothing but a distant hum. She felt like she was standing on the edge of something she'd only ever dreamed about.

Mike dropped to one knee in front of her, his eyes shining with unshed tears. "So, Celeste Nichols... will you marry me? Will you be the person I choose to be with, through everything, for the rest of my life?"

For a moment, Celeste couldn't breathe. Her heart thudded in her chest, and her hands trembled. The proposal felt surreal, like something from a dream she'd never dared to have. The Eiffel Tower glittered above them, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she realized that everything she had longed for was standing right in front of her.

She opened her mouth, her voice a whisper, "Yes. Yes, I will marry you, Mike."

Her words were a quiet vow, a promise of a new beginning. Mike rose, enveloping her in a tight embrace, and for the first time in what felt like forever, he felt at peace. The world could have fallen apart around them, but in that moment, it didn't matter.

—

Maya called, "Cut!" and the applause broke out. The scene had been perfect - raw and brimming with emotion. Y/n took a step back, drawing a deep breath as the adrenaline from the moment began to subside. The proposal scene they had just filmed was everything Maya Carver had envisioned: the Eiffel Tower glittering in the background, the heartfelt words exchanged under its glow. For Y/n, it had been a whirlwind of emotion, slipping into Celeste's shoes and letting herself feel the vulnerability of being proposed to by someone she loved deeply.

But that was just acting.

She smiled faintly at Sebastian, his grin was wide and easy, but there was something in his eyes - something deeper, unreadable - that caught her off guard. He didn't look away as he stepped toward her, closing the space between them with an intensity that made her heart skip.

"Aurora," he said, softly enough that it was meant just for her ears.

Her smile faltered slightly, curiosity tugging at her. "What is it?" she asked, tilting her head.

He didn't answer right away. Instead, he reached into his jacket pocket. The small, familiar gesture sent a ripple of confusion through her, followed quickly by disbelief.

No.

He couldn't be.

Sebastian dropped to one knee before her, just as he had moments ago in the scene, but this time there were no cameras rolling, no Maya barking orders. This was real.

Y/n froze, her pulse roaring in her ears as she stared down at him. Around them, the cast and crew had gone quiet, their eyes fixed on the pair.

"Aurora," he began, his voice steady but heavy with emotion. "I know this might seem sudden. Maybe even crazy. But I need you to hear me out."

Her breath hitched. This wasn't happening.

"These last few months with you have been... unlike anything I've ever known," Sebastian continued. "In a world where everything feels fake, where so much is about image and performance, you've been the one real thing in my life. The one person who truly sees me, who makes me feel like I can be myself without fear or pretense. The one person who truly loves and cares for me."

His words hit her like a tidal wave, and she couldn't stop the tears that pricked at her eyes.

"I've spent my whole life searching for something I couldn't even name," he said, his voice cracking just slightly. "And now I know it was you. You've changed everything for me, Aurora. And I don't want to go another day without telling you how much you mean to me. How much I love you."

Sebastian opened the small velvet box, revealing a simple but stunning ring that glinted under the Eiffel Tower's glow. Gasps rippled through the small crowd around them, but Y/n barely registered it. Her world had narrowed to Sebastian, to his steady gaze, to the sincerity in his words that left her utterly shaken.

"Will you marry me?" he asked, his voice breaking ever so slightly.

The weight of the moment pressed down on her chest, and her thoughts spiraled into chaos. This wasn't part of the plan. They'd only been together for a few months, and while those months had been filled with undeniable connection, they were still learning each other, still navigating the complexities of their lives.

And then there was Aurora.

The truth clawed at her from the inside, her heart warring with her head. She wasn't Aurora, and yet here she was, standing in her place, hearing a proposal that wasn't meant entirely for her.

Around her, the crew watched with bated breath, their eyes glimmering with anticipation. Time seemed to stretch endlessly as she stared down at Sebastian, his earnest expression making her heart ache.

She opened her mouth, but no words came out. Her chest tightened as the conflict within her raged louder.

What should she say?

Chapter 26 >

Taglist

@dhoruwolfie @kandis-mom

[the-golden-comet]

Writerly Questionnaire

The very lovely @sableglass , @the-letterbox-archives , @nczaversnick , @drchenquill , @thecomfywriter , @thatuselesshuman , @glasshouses-and-stones , and @theink-stainedfolk , tagged me in this one. (I absolutely relate to your love of escapist romances to read alongside the beach 💖✨)

I’ll answer the best I can. Bear in mind I’m a little bit of a chaos gremlin :)

About Me

When did you first start writing?

About 12 years old. I always took a liking to Disney animated classics, which have inspired me to write and draw similar to the style.

Are the genres/themes you enjoy reading different from the ones you write?

Actually, the two are very similar. What I love to write is what I love to read. I’ve taken more of a fancy to writing romances now as opposed to a decade ago, though :)

Is there an author (or just a fellow writer!) you want to emulate, or one to whom you’re often compared?

Not that I’m aware of. Everyone has taken a little bit of inspiration from different sources, whether knowingly or unknowingly, so there are probably some authors or writers that I share similarities with. I know for a FACT that a lot of my stories draw heavy inspiration from Disney, which has influenced my art and storytelling styles ✨

Can you tell me a little about your writing space(s)? (Room, coffee shop, desk, etc.)

Ahhh, yes. Couch, coffee table, writing laptop, coffee. Soft throw draped across my lap as I get perpetually cold. Thankfully, it’s nice and quiet in this writing space and it allows me to let me do string-of-thought writing for hours. The only thing is sometimes I lose track of time this way, so I have to set an alarm for breaks and meals.

What’s your most effective way to muster up some muse?

Watching movies, listening in on my friends’ DnD campaigns, or reading stories from friends and mutuals :)

Did the place(s) you grew up in influence the people and places you write about?

Not really. I keep my personal life and writing life pretty separate. After all, a great thing about writing fantasy is that it doesn’t HAVE to tie in to the real world, or personal life. It can be whatever I want it to be ✨

Are there any recurring themes in your writing, and if so, do they surprise you at all?

Recurring themes? You bet. I either write a high fantasy BL Romance, or low fantasy slice-of life RomCom. My favorite writing tropes are Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Found Families, Romantic Comedy, Magic in the Mundane, Slice of Life, Call to Action/Prophecy, and Absurdism.

Do they surprise me? Absolutely. I can have a beautiful plot all planned out, and then my characters say, “okay I see the route, but what if we take a sliiiiight detour? :)” and then soon enough I’m on a totally unique and unexplored path in my writing….and that’s exciting. An adventure all on its own ✨

My Characters

Would you please tell me about your current favorite character? (Current WIP, past WIP, never used, etc.)

I fear if I don’t say Peter here, he’s gonna kill me. In my current WIP, my favorite character is Ali because he’s a lovable goofball genie that wants the best for Noah. Overall currently (side eying) Peter because he’s a chaotic-neutral, anti-establishment, insane pirate captain that makes my life entertaining 😂

Which of your characters do you think you’d be friends with in real life?

Ali. Hands down. Dude gets along with just about everyone.

Which of your characters would you dislike the most if you met them?

Any of the villains I wrote, but going off of main OCs? Gosh that’s tough….probably Tyr because he’s really angry all the time (for good reason, but too much of that is toxic)

Tell me about the process of coming up with of one, all, or any of your characters.

Oh boy. That’s a big one. Let’s see….

Character building kinda happens simultaneously to Plot Planning; it’s a bit hard to describe, as there’s no “right order” to my world building. But usually it’s: “Okay, who is my protagonist? Who is the antagonist? What do they look like? Is the protag a hero, or villain? Is the antag a hero, or villain? What is their ‘general moral alignment?’ What are their characteristics? What are their strengths? What are their flaws? What are their goals and aspirations? Etc.” I do this for each major character. Then, secondary and supporting characters, who get a little less polish but still enough to be human (or relatable) in nature, start getting fleshed out.

Once I get the Core Plots and characters made and planned out, I start piecing the events in chronological order in the story. This becomes my “roadmap” that helps drive the narrative. Then….well, the rest just kinda falls into place. Once I have a “Plan of Events,” all that’s left is writing the story around the plan. And, as I’m writing, new ideas may come, and I get to explore that a little further during the writing phase.

tl;dr: I do the “Tree Approach.” Characters are the foundational trunk. Branches are the Core Plots. Twigs are the Conflicts. Leaves are the little details of each conflict (i.e. how characters react, where the conflict is set, what this means for each character’s aspirations, etc.)

Do you notice any recurring themes/traits among your characters?

Yep :)

How do you picture them? (As real people you imagined, as models/actors who exist in real life, as imaginary artwork, as artwork you made or commissioned, anime style, etc.)

Like this:

My Writing

What’s your reason for writing?

Personal enjoyment, mainly. And how far I can stretch and challenge my creative mind ✨

Is there a specific comment or type of comment you find particularly motivating coming from your readers?

Any story reactions and positive engagement is always appreciated. Just don’t be a dick and you’re good 👍

How do you want to be thought of by those who read your work? (For example: as a literary genius, or as a writer who “gets” the human condition; as a talented worldbuilder, as a role model, etc.)

I loathe this question. As long as people enjoy my stories, that’s what matters. I’m just one silly little guy writing stories for my own enjoyment. The fact that other people can enjoy my wild ideas as well is a blessing in of itself.

What do you feel is your greatest strength as a writer?

Comedy and Dialogue. And comedic timing.

What have you been frequently told your greatest writing strength is by others?

Same as above. Also have been told that I have wildly entertaining and outlandishly creative ideas portrayed in “insane, chaotic, and ballsy ways.” Coolio 🤙

How do you feel about your own writing? (Answer in whatever way you interpret this question.)

I’m proud of it. I’ve successfully written stories that I wanted to read, and reading back through my stories is really entertaining and motivating :)

If you were the last person on earth and knew your writing would never be read by another human, would you still write?

I’ve already been writing stories on my own for well over a decade, nearly two. It was my husband and friends who finally pushed me to go public, and I’m very glad I did :)

When you write, are you influenced by what others might enjoy reading, or do you write purely what you enjoy? If it’s a mix of the two, which holds the most influence?

I write solely for my entertainment, and my personal opinion is that’s the best way to do it, honestly. If I write stories that I want to read, I enjoy them, I spend more effort on them because I WANT to, not to please anyone other than myself. I don’t inhibit myself or censor myself, allowing me creative freedom to write wherever my heart takes me….which has led to some WILDLY entertaining plots. Even if writing is a career to some, if you find yourself enjoying what you write, you’re gonna motivate yourself beyond your wildest imaginations ✨

Man, that was a lot! Thank you @davycoquette for starting the chain, and thank you again Sable for tagging me!

I will gently and no pressure tag the following people as well as my tag list: @nczaversnick , @lavender-gloom , @cowboybrunch , @noblebs , @words-after-midnight , @saturnine-saturneight , @marlowethelibrarian , @aintgonnatakethis , @coffeexafterxmidnight , @astramachina , @justabigoldnerd , @pippinoftheshire , +open tag! 💛✨

✨👇Tag list for writing tidbits below. DM me if you’d like to be added 👇✨

Tag List for writing tidbits (lmk if you want + or -)

@talesofsorrowandofruin , @alinacapellabooks , @gioiaalbanoart , @deanwax , @dyrewrites , @honeybewrites , @paeliae-occasionally , @kaylinalexanderbooks , @katenewmanwrites , @billybatsonmylove , @madi-konrad , @houseplantblank , @far-cry-from-finality , @froggy-pposto , @fractured-shield , @avaseofpeonies , @topazadine , @thecoolerlucky , @theaistired , @willtheweaver , @rivenantiqnerd @somethingclevermahogony , @noxxytocin , @leahnardo-da-veggie , @addicted2coke-theothercoke , @illarian-rambling , @mysticstarlightduck , @ominous-feychild

[911whatsyourgratitude]

I'd like to give thanks for episode 8x05. Oliver said it was his favorite and I can see why. It checks almost all the boxes of what I expect from the show. There are funny moments but also heartwrenching drama, not to mention exceptional costumes, make ups, and decorations. All in a single episode. Moreover, an episode usually highlights the abilities of one or two actors, but 8x05 showcased the skills of Aisha Hinds, Tracie Thoms, Oliver Stark, Lou Ferrigno Jr., and Ryan Guzman, all at once. This is quite a rare treat.

Aisha showed-off her acting skills in two back-to-back episodes. I was amazed by her monologue in 8x04, and once again by her acting while saving Denny's life in 8x05. I'd been sure there was no way Denny would be killed in 8x05, but the Hen and Karen's panic expressions, and Hen's trembling voice, made me worried for a good while. I think it doesn't matter if viewers have already known how the story will end. The way it's delivered is what matters the most. That's why we watch our favorite shows/episodes repeatedly.

The trio of Oliver, Lou, and Ryan worked wonderfully in sync. The timing of their banter is impeccable. I love the way Ryan delivered his lines when Eddie was treating Buck's boils. His intonation and punctuation was impeccable, including when he emphasized that the boils might be caused by stress. And his facial expression when Eddie couldn't see Buck in the face on the next day is a comedy gold.

All eyes have been on Lou since Tommy kissed Buck back in 7x04. And because this episode cemented Tommy's position as Buck's boyfriend (and hopefully, as end game romantic partner), his performance was dissected more than ever. We wanted to know whether he deserved the coveted place in Buck's life or not. There are clips, gifs, slow-motioned gifs, zoomed gifs, pictures, and zoomed pictures of Tommy taken from episode 8x05 circulated on Tumblr. Probably, even microbes are not scrutinized under microscopes as much as he was. And boy, how he delivered! His facial expressions and gestures showed a lot of what his lines didn't. Fans love the fond look he threw at Buck, the amused and disbelief look at Eddie, how he touched Buck's leg a little in the hospital, how he rolled his eyes when Buck told him he knew how to break the curse, his sleepy voice while he was waiting for Buck to close his laptop, and so on. If this was a test to be Buck's other half, Tommy has passed with flying colors.

Oliver is always a bit of enigma to me. Like Angela Bassett, I've never yet watched a scene where I thought he needed improvements. And 8x05 is no exception. It's delightful to watch him telling the lore of Billy Boils with such concerns. And the way he portrayed Buck's stubborness about the curse, makes viewers fond of Buck instead of being annoyed by him. It is also fun to notice little details in Oliver's acting. Fans have watched with delight in previous episodes how Buck's shoulders slumped after he took care of the bees, and how Buck waved to the phone when Chimney was taking Maddie's call about Athena's plane emergency. In this episode, we caught the detail of how Buck winced in pain while he was trying to sit when Tommy visited him in the hospital. I always wonder, which ones of those details were directional, which ones were planned ahead by Oliver, and which ones were improvised on the spot. Oliver always acts which such ease, as if every scene is natural. Sometimes I just realized that his acting must be not that easy, when I watched other actors stumbled while acted on similar scenes or deliver similar lines. It is clear that Oliver Stark is extremely talented. I often wonder where's the talent ends and the hard work begins.

I also want to thank the people who have worked on the decorations, backgrounds, wardrobes, and make-ups on 8x05. Details on the Firehouse Haunt Fest decorations are amazing, so are the costumes of the casts. I bet the team had a blast while working on this episode. Also, hats off to whoever made Billy Boils. That prop reminded me once again why I didn't choose medical program at the university.

We notice that the festivities were not only shown in the Halloween costumes. The outfits of the casts also reflected the autumn vibes. Special shout out to the team who dressed Maddie, Buck, Eddie, and Tommy, and who decorated Buck's loft. Those beautiful outfits and decorations are really pleasing in the eyes. Especially in the cemetery scenes, where Buck and Tommy looked very sharp in their suits. Some fans have used a screen shot of Tommy in the scene, with green leafs and bright sky in the background, as their wallpaper.

A special thank to Taylor Wong, the writer of 8x05. She briliantly wrote the different treatments Buck received from his boyfriend (Tommy) vs. his bestfriend (Eddie), without painting Eddie as the bad guy. Making Tommy and Eddie ganged up to roast Buck is also a smart move to show that Tommy and Eddie are best friends, and not secretly compete for Buck's love like some people imagine. And

Lastly, a bunch of thanks to Christine Khalafian and Tim Minear, who have made this brilliant episode come to live. I cannot wait to watch the next one.

[koolades-world]

Big S is in the house aka.dude who always writes way too long requests🗣️

Happy 2k followers and here is a request

"what're you doing out here at this hour?"

"you're so cute, it hurts"

"to me, you're perfect. i don't care what anyone else says"

With my one and only babyboy Asmodeus, Assmuah, Asmuadelisa, the best boy in universe and my husband i do not accept other opinions 🥰

So Asmo was gone for entire day for work, like majorish stuff where he was working at his new collection of makeup and modeling and other things, and something got him insecure, that new collection is not good enough, or is modeling is not perfect, like someone said that he is not natural enough in his poses or that the pigment of eyeshadow is not bright enough, overall bro stressed out and came late.

"what're you doing out here at this hour?" MC is like "bro ur ok? Where uve been, it's late"

And when he tells them they are like "you're so cute, it hurts to see you so stressed, i wish i could come with you to help you with that, but i can't bro im not a pro at that shi, want a therapy cuddle?"

And they cuddle while watching some Romantic Comedy that Asmo would love even tho MC doesn't really like them. and MC is like "to me, you're perfect. i don't care what anyone else says" and they muah muah and cute fluff of two cute patooties i love my husband give me some cuddle fluff my request making machine(/j)🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

thank you!! great to see you again :)

i just want to say i absolutely love the way you spun the you're so cute it hurts one??? that's so genius and i would've never thought to use it that way

enjoy <3

prompts 29, 32, and 37 w/ Asmo

“Mr. Asmodeus, ready to head home?” One of Asmo’s dedicated helpers from Majolish poked their head in the door of his studio.

“Are you closing up?” He looked up from the color wheel he was studying in comparison to the proposed and actual eye shadow pallet colors.

“I tried to get you twenty more minutes, but Ms. Ezos is about to fall asleep.” Ezos was the project manager who’d been working with him for his makeup line from Majolish. She’d been very helpful and sweet, and seemed just as invested in the production of the line as he was. The entire thing had been something of a struggle, and it felt like there was an obstacle around each corner. The latest issue was that the colors of his eyeshadow pallet weren’t what he imagined. They were supposed to be lots of different shades of pink with a couple other colors thrown in, but none of the pinks are what he’d imagined or proposed originally. To him, they all looked too similiar.

“It’s alright. What time is it?” He yawned and took a sip of his water in an attempt to wake himself back up.

“Just past midnight.” The helper checked their watch.

“I didn’t realize it was so late. I’ll pack up my things.” With a sigh, he gathered up all this things and packed them away. He grabbed his bag and with one last look at the test pallet, left the room. The helper locked it behind him. He knew he’d be back in that room sometime tomorrow.

“I think you did really great today.” They trailed after him.

“Thank you. It does need some work. I don’t think I’m happy with it yet.” He took some of the samples home with him to compare with items he owned to see if it actually wasn’t the color he wanted, or if he just needed rest. He left the studio without trying to look for Ezos or anyone else he’d worked with. They probably had went home already anyways. His assistant waved him off, promising to let everyone know he’d gone home.

Since Majolish wasn’t far from home, he walked to and from the studio. Most everything was closed, save for a couple shops. None of his favorites were open, so he had no excuse to stop and shop to lift his mood. When he got home, the house was silent. He made his way to his room to put this things down and get ready for bed. He went for a bath and changed into his pajamas. He sat and thought for a little bit before deciding to eat a little something before bed, as he couldn’t recall the last thing he ate.

He made his way downstairs, and purposely avoided looking at all the clocks on his way there. He opened the fridge to look for something to eat, and when he shut it, you were standing there. It scared him a little.

"So, what're you doing out here at this hour?" Mc was holding a bowl full of snacks, which they set down, implying they'd been in the kitchen in the entire time. He had totally missed them.

"Mc! I'm just a little hungry is all. I've been working on my new makeup line all day." His stomach growled at the thought of eating again.

"Asmo, it's almost two am. You left before I even woke up this morning. You need to treat yourself better. You're so cute, it hurts to see you like this." He couldn't meet your eyes, because you looked genuinely upset.

"I know I've been slacking more recently, but it's only because I'm putting everything into developing.

"You look worn down. I can't offer much, but if you want, we can cuddle and watch something of your choosing?" You opened your arms, much to his delight. He rushed in and enthusiastically hugged you.

"You're just delightful! Can we watch a romcom?" He knew you weren't the biggest fan of them, but you did say he could pick.

"Of course. Lert's get you some food, then we can do that. It's important to fuel your body." He was glad he had you. You let him know what the family ate for dinner, which he opted to eat. The two of you went back to his room, where you put on a romcom of his choosing. He leaned heavily into your side while he was eating, and once he finished, he made sure you properly cuddled him. You were only half watching the movie he'd put on. You were mostly looking at him. He looked more relaxed now.

"Asmo," you said.

"Hmm?" He looked up at you.

"I think you needed to hear this, but you can tell me otherwise. To me, you're perfect. I don't care what anyone else says." You gave him a forehead kiss. He didn't respond for once, but he gave you a cheek kiss back that conveyed all the emotions he couldn't put into words. That's all he needed to hear, especially from someone he loved.

[supercalifragipopculturevomit]

FINALLY caught up on TV shows I follow and watched new ones I’ve been meaning to check out…

Only Murders in the Building, season 4 (Hulu) – a perfect blend of crime, mystery, comedy, and heart: this is a certified comfort show. I don’t know how it keeps managing to expand the universe of such a niche podcast, but four seasons in, it’s still at it. And it doesn’t feel like a hasty expansion—something created out of popularity and demand—because all this time it’s actually been laying the ground for a much bigger arc. Steve Martin and Martin Short together are comedic gold—that’s a given; but Meryl Streep and Martin Short?? That’s an on-screen and off-screen pairing I didn’t know I needed.

Disclaimer* (Apple TV+) – this one’s difficult to discuss without spoilers but all you really need to know is it’s a psychological thriller written and directed by Alfonso Cuarón with Cate Blanchett at the helm. Parts of it feel clunky, with decisions made to force a narrative and serve a specific number of episodes, but if you can suspend your disbelief for that, it’s a meaty watch—heavy and triggering but also has you looking inwards and questioning your own prejudices. There is a gut punch of a line in the finale that will haunt you for the rest of your days, but it is worth watching the entire miniseries for.

Nobody Wants This, season 1 (Netflix) – here’s where they’re wrong: EVERYBODY WANTS THIS… everyone who was a teenager around 2005, anyway. My teen idol, Veronica Mars, with my teen crush, Seth Cohen, in a television rom-com?? 17-year-old me would have imploded from sheer joy and jealousy. Apparently, this isn’t the first time Kristen Bell and Adam Brody have played romantic partners, but since I didn’t reach the fifth season of House of Lies, this is the first time I’m seeing them together. And they are as adorable and as sexy together as you would expect them to be. The biggest surprise was how sharp the script is—this breed of rom-com is rare in this day and age.

The Franchise, season 1 (HBO Max) – this is a satirical comedy that pulls the curtain on the crazy shit a film crew—if they’re as unlucky as the Tecto team—has to put up with in the making of a superhero franchise. Would I have watched this if Daniel Brühl wasn’t in it? Maybe not. But I wouldn’t keep watching it if it wasn’t worthwhile. Created by the people behind Veep and Succession, it’s wickedly funny in a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of way. So, yeah, best watched with subtitles on.

Slow Horses, season 4 (Apple TV+) – in some ways this is your typical British spy thriller that has nail-biting action, an unexpected mole, and a tragic death but, in many ways, it isn’t. The spies are losers who aren’t easy to root for, but against all odds, they somehow always save the day. It’s ridiculous and brilliant and hilarious and I love it so much. On its fourth season, it proves that it still has much to offer—might be its strongest yet—with little seeds they’ve planted early on finally bearing fruit. Easily the most underrated show on this list.

The Day of the Jackal, season 1 (Peacock) – you know that episode in The Office (US) where they’re debating if Hilary Swank is hot or not? I had a similar one in my mind the entire time watching this—but with Eddie Redmayne on stand. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always liked him, I think he’s a phenomenal actor, but the most I would have ever described him was cute. This role had me seeing him in a whole new light though—not too different from when Benedict Cumberbatch took on the role of Sherlock. I don’t know if they’ve cast the new 007 yet but this could be the audition tape that puts him in the running. He’s SO GOOD that it’s easy to forget you're rooting for the villain. Redmayne’s Jackal has the steely precision of Jason Bourne, the disguises of Ethan Hunt minus the camp, and the sharp fashion and globetrotting lifestyle of a young and contemporary James Bond—what’s not to like? And, fuck yes, he’s hot.