#( x. the sun life kept from shining ; tj )

[thetjbailey]

Jazzy & Theo / Text

Theo: Remind me why I can't drink or smoke.. Theo: Fuck Jaz, my life just took a one eighty. Theo: Dad is gonna have my balls..

@jxsminebailey

[drethanramslay]

To one of my first internet friends @tyrilstouch​​, I love you so much and I hope you have a great day ❤️ thanks for being there for me and simping over bad boys with me 🥰🤪

And for our common love for leather clad boys, here is a Colt x mc drabble which I hope you like 😅

Forgive me if I make any mistakes

It had been three months since Valerie had joined Langston University and things were... okay.

Sure she met new people, was studying her favourite subjects, made new friends and was acing the college experience but still, she felt this ache in her heart.

A small part of it was because of the guilt eating away at what went down in her senior year with her dad but the major part was a certain bad boy with dark eyes and a passion for motorcycles.

Colt Kaneko.

It had been four months since she last saw him.

Four months since he last kissed her.

Four months since he last had his arms around her.

4 months since she last heard those three words from his mouth.

I have a good feeling that our paths will cross once again.

Those words echoed through her very soul, giving her hope and pain at the same time.

She understood why he did what he did but that didn't help with the void called 'Colt' in her chest. Many guys would hit on her and many wanted to date her but nobody, absolutely nobody could replace him.

Every guy she interacted with, her mind would automatically compare that person to the love of her life which further proved that absolutely no one could compare to him.

Colt... When are you going to come back?

She often used to mock rom-coms where the girl is head over heels in love with a guy and would cry when he was gone. But now that she found herself in the same position, she couldn't help but laugh at how she ironically could relate to the same bimbos.

"Happy birthday Val!!" Her roommate TJ, wished her as she entered the vast and green quad.  A sudden bear hug from her made her momentarily snap out of her melancholy.

"OOF!"

"Have a great day babe." TJ spoke as she squeezed Valerie.

Great day? Never heard of her. She thought to herself but returned the embrace.

"Thanks TJ."

Pulling back, TJ linked her arms in hers. "So what's the plan for today?"

"I dunno. Maybe just kick back and relax. Not in the mood for any party."

"You always say that!!"

"Because that's just who I am?"

"Geez gran. Live a little. Go hook up or something."

"No, thank you very much." Valerie rolled her eyes. The thought of hooking up with anyone else just made her nauseous and intensified her longing.

Get a grip Valerie.

"Why not? I think it will help you relax." TJ spoke as she turned towards Valerie only to find an unamused expression staring back at her.

"TJ, we have gone over this. The guys here aren't my type." She said, exasperated.

TJ gently grasped Valerie's hand stopping her in her tracks. "So tell me what is your type. I could help you find the one."

Now that's a topic I can give a ted talk on.

"Well... My ideal guy would be tall, handsome and the brooding kind. He would have dark calculative eyes which can see right through me. He would be the kind who has a 'I don't give a fuck' attitude but at the same time, he is a giant softie on the inside and cares for the people who matter to him the most."

She continued on. "He looks good in leather and loves motorcycles. He is passionate, loyal and intelligent. We complement each other... Understand each other... Support each other... Like yin yang. If you get what I mean?"

TJ's eyes were wide by the end of her ramble which made Valerie self conscious. "What?" She asked eyeing her friend.

"Val, I think fate is on your side because I can see your ideal guy."

Val scoffed. Nobody could be Colt Kaneko. "Where?"

She followed TJ's hand to across the quad and her heart stopped.

No freaking way...

She started walking, hoping that this wasn't a trick her eyes were playing on her. She pinched herself, to make sure she wasn't dreaming.

She wasn't.

This was reality.

And he was here.

"Colt?!" She called out and he looked up and smiled. Seeing that familiar smile she broke into a sprint. She shoved the people in her way, not giving a damn about the dirty looks thrown her way.

She didn't care about anything else but the man in front of her.

Colt was back.

He kept his promise.

She ran and jumped into his outspread arms. He caught her easily and spun her around as they tightly embraced each other. He buried his nose into her hair, the familiar vanilla scent invading his senses.

He had dreamt of the moment for so long but this was so much better.

"Oh my god... You are really here." She whispered as he set her down gently on her feet.

"Sweetheart... When I promised that I will never forget you, I also meant that I won't forget your birthday."

Tears of happiness welled up in her eyes as her hands looped around his neck. Colts hands rested on her hips and he pressed his forehead against hers.

Their breaths were in sync as they stood there forehead to forehead. Valerie could feel his racing heartbeat, which matched hers.

No one spoke for a few moments before she whispered.

"Hey."

"Hi." He said as he nudged his nose against hers.

"I missed you so much." She blinked and a lone tear slid down her face.

Colt reached and cupped his hand on her cheek, wiping the tears away with his thumb. "Well I'm here now and I'm not leaving any time soon."

Her heart leaped as she pulled back enough to stare into those dark eyes of his. Those familiar eyes which stared into her very soul. "You mean-?"

"Yes, I'm moving here. Guess you are stuck with me for the long haul, Valerie Knight."

"And I wouldn't have it any other way." Saying that she went on her toes and pressed her lips against his.

Kissing him was like breathing for the first time. It were as if she had been drowning and for the first time in those four months, she was breathing again.

She felt alive.

The kiss lit every nerve ending on fire and euphoria flooded her veins, filling up the void in her chest.

Kissing her lips was like coming back home. It felt like a sun shining on his face after days of gloom. Having his arms around her and kissing her was a heavenly experience which he could never get tired of.

I'm home... He thought to himself.

If it were up to them, they would have spent the entire day kissing but sadly, breathing is a requirement too.

Pulling back she smiled at him. "I love you Colt."

"I love you too, Valerie."

His eyes darted around to see half the quad staring at them, which caused him to chuckle. "Well we have an audience and as much as I would love to put on a show, I have something planned for your birthday."

"Colt... You didn't have too-"

He put a finger on her lips. "Shh. I had too. Your carriage awaits." He extended his hand towards his motorcycle which had her laughing.

Colt climbed on to the seat and Valerie followed suite. Clicking their helmets on, she wrapped her arms around him, enjoying the body heat emanating from him.

"Shall we?" He asked, his voice muffled by the helmet, as he revved up the engine.

The familiar hum of the engine beneath her sent a shiver of excitement down her spine, ready for her next adventure.

So with a huge smile, she squeezed him and said, "We shall."

Once again have a happy birthday love 💓 

[evanstanarchive]

hey ! do you guys have any tj hammond fics ? specifically completed one with chris characters? thank youu

oh boy oh boy oh boy oh boy. I’ll separate according to Chris characters and ones with ♡ are personal faves of mine. Also because this is a HUGE LIST it’s now under a read more :D

The ships in this list are: TJ x Johnny Storm, TJ x Steve Rogers, TJ x Stucky, TJ x Curtis and TJ x Colin 

TJ x Johnny Storm

♡First Sons and Superheroes by LeandraLocke, saturnmeetsmercury (jarofhearts)T.J. looked at Johnny for a moment longer, and then a grin started to spread on his lips. He probably shouldn’t read too much into this, but he couldn’t stop himself from wondering how straight that man really was.He was rather looking forward to finding out. After having saved Boston from a meteor catastrophe, the Fantastic Four are invited into the White House where T.J. Hammond and Johnny Storm meet for the first time. What starts as a one night stand there, continues as casual arrangement and opens the door to more than either of them bargained for.

never mind the why and wherefore byluninosityTJ Hammond, thirteen weeks sober and lurking near the gala’s open bar as a kind of test of nonexistent willpower, saw Johnny Storm from across the room and thought: someone should dance with him. (Warning: Dom/sub play)

TJ x Colin Shea *Disclaimer: No mod has read any of these yet!

Head in the Clouds, Waking Up on the Floor by blessyourdoubtsAfter breaking up with Ally, the woman he changed his life and himself for, Colin feels lost and like the biggest failure. But then he meets TJ Hammond, his new boss. Beautiful, confident, unbearably sexy TJ. Who also has a whole mountain of problems to deal with.Can they be good for each other or is this a disaster waiting to happen? (Part 1 of I’m in love with him, mom!)

I’m on Sinking Sand by blessyourdoubtsWhen Colin invited him over, TJ didn’t expect football, booze and a frat boy gathering.Come to think of it, there was a lot TJ didn’t expect. (part 2 of I’m in love with him, mom!)

This is just warm up by tintentodAll Colin needed to be his old self again were three things: music, friends, and food. Then TJ Hammond came along and reminded him there was another thing he really loved and that was sex.

Fever Pitch by tattooeddevil Written for a prompt at comment-fic on LJ: TJ comes down with something and Colin’s actually a pretty good caretaker"Chicken soup. Or, chicken and vegetable soup. There’s more vegetable than chicken, the chicken in my fridge wasn’t as fresh as I hoped so I had to chuck a lot of it, but vegetable is just as good, right? Healthy!“TJ groaned from beneath the pile of blankets. “Colin, I swear to God, if you don’t stop babbling–”

TJ x Steve Rogers

♡Turritopsis by LaLaCat1HYDRA goes too far and injures the Winter Soldier beyond repair. They turn to a dangerous new procedure to reverse the ageing process and, hopefully, the harm they have done to their greatest weapon. Fast forward thirty years to TJ Hammond, a late night kidnapping, and a blond man who feels like home coming to his rescue. (also may be considered Stucky since TJ is Bucky)

♡Hell of A Good Universe Next Door (Let’s Go) by Bond_GirlOr how T. J. Hammond went looking for himself - and kept running into Steve Rogers’ broad chest along the way.If this is a love story, it was inadvertent. Also, ridiculously unsuccessful supervillains, dear old dead friends, Secret Service, TJ’s grandmother being inappropriate, and a lone match-making deer.

Not on any List  by melonbutterfly When Steve meets TJ Hammond, the Vice President’s son, TJ isn’t in a good place. Perhaps it’s that which draws Steve to him - subconsciously he recognizes something of himself in TJ, and maybe the same is true for TJ. It’s an unlikely friendship they strike up, but it deepens and eventually expands into something else. (Part 1 of A Solid Foundation)

A Solid Foundation by melonbutterflyEverything is going great in TJ’s life. He and Steve have been together for six months, his family knows and is more or less supportive, and he and Steve are starting to seriously think about how to approach making their relationship public. Things are good.And then Steve sends TJ a text with a codeword, and next thing TJ knows Steve is on TV, rounded up by heavily armed men in broad daylight, in the middle of DC. (Part 2 of A Solid Foundation)

Second Time Around by BrendaSteve Rogers is a warrior without a war, a soldier without a mission, and a man without a plan. Bucky doesn’t need his help, the other Avengers are busy with their own lives, and not even a move back to Brooklyn has given Steve a purpose or any idea on what to do with his life.But, when he meets TJ Hammond at a charity event, he thinks maybe he’s at least found a new friend. That he’s found someone who understands a little of what it’s like to rebuild one’s life from the ground up. Someone who could help him rediscover just who exactly Steve Rogers is.And maybe - just maybe - they discover a deeper connection with each other along the way.

♡Let the Melody Shine (let it cleanse your mind) by JisaThree weeks after his ‘defrosting,’ Steve Rogers is lost and depressed, wandering the street of New York, haunted by his memories. Things only get more painful for him when he sees Bucky walking up the street. Except. It’s not Bucky.Instead he meets TJ Hammond, son of a former President and the current Secretary of State, a man troubled by past mistakes, current addictions, and his family’s political ambitions.Together they tackle their own demons and try to make their lives a little better, all the while forming a friendship that will heal them both. And maybe become a little something more.

♡The One Who Knows by Dira Sudis (dsudis)“You probably don’t remember me,” the guy said with an apologetic smile, “but my name is–”“Stevie,” TJ said as it dawned on him. It literally felt like the sun coming up, like waking up out of a long sleep, and TJ surged to his feet without thinking. “Oh my God, Stevie, I missed you so much.” (Warning: Suicidal thoughts)

Without An Agenda by kirasha, TittiWith Hydra still trying to kill the dangerous people on their list, Steve ends up protecting the Hammond family. But with some help from Bucky and the rest of the Avengers, plus a lot of confrontations with a very opinionated family, he also finds that right partner.

Mirror Image by vassaladySteve sleeps with a guy that looks like Bucky. But they aren’t the same person.

TJ x Steve x Bucky 

♡We Should Just Kiss Like Real People Do byL1av TJ Hammond didn’t expect to fall in love with Steve Rogers. He didn’t expect to want a long-standing relationship with the superhero. He didn’t expect to ever be told he was the carbon copy of Steve’s dead past lover, Bucky Barnes. He also didn’t expect the utter heartbreak he felt when Steve said Bucky Barnes was alive…and that he needed to find him. With Bucky in the picture, how is TJ supposed to compete against Steve’s real lover, when all TJ had was just Barnes’ face to begin with? If you can’t beat them…join them?

♡We Should Just Kiss On Christmas by L1avMonths after Steve, TJ and Bucky settle into their new home, TJ decides they should do what anyone does with a big new house. Celebrate Christmas by throwing a party, inviting Bucky’s extended family and the remaining Howling Commandos to stay with them for the week and pray to God nothing goes wrong. So grab a glass of eggnog, make sure the presents are all wrapped and double check that turkey because this is Christmas– Steve, TJ and Bucky style.

I Think I fell In Love Again by abbeyjewelThe fingers in his hair were gentle, but tugged enough so that he could feel the pull. He nuzzled at Steve’s knee and let out a contented sigh. Never had he thought he’d feel this happy. If you had told him a year ago he could feel like this, well, he wouldn’t have believed a word of it. (Warning: BDSM)

TJ x Curtis Everett

Without reservation, without restraint by boopboop(This is a multi pairing kink prompt posting and TJ and Curtis only show up in chapter 3) “I want to make you bleed.” (Warning: BDSM)

Feel free to ask for more! We have some, we just didn’t want to overwhelm with a huuuuuuuuge list! :D

[wearethegoodlife]

TheGoodLife! “Camp Nice” 2017 – Super Re-Cap Extravaganza!

Have you ever wished you could go back to some of the experiences of your youth but in your adult body with all the wisdom and sense of self you’ve acquired since? We have too. And as firm believers that anything is possible, we’ve taken it a step further and turned that wish into a reality! Welcome to Camp Nice, the ultimate summer camp for adults! What started as an idea for a little camp excursion for the autumnal equinox has evolved over the past four years into a one of a kind communal adventure for family and friends of TheGoodLife! This year was far and beyond the most epic Camp Nice yet! Moving to a new location nestled in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains along the Great Appalachian Valley, Camp Nice 2017 was a private wilderness paradise that included a lake and fleet of boats, miles of hiking terrain, an archery range, an arts & crafts hut, even a haunted cabin in the woods! On top of that there were literally acres of available camping zones, a central cabin village, and both bathing and kitchen facilities meaning campers could go as camp or as glamp as they wanted, no judgement here! If that wasn’t enough, we had the generous support of Burton Snowboards, Cutty Sark Whisky, ABK Beer, and Unreal Snacks, who all contributed in major ways to amplify the Camp Nice experience. From Burton providing extensive camping equipment from their collection with Big Agnes to Cutty Sark throwing a multi-course “Pioneer Dinner” cooked over the fire to ABK keeping Camp Nice hydrated with beer for a week to Unreal Snacks hooking up the best s’mores this side of the Mississippi, this years sponsors were next level. And so were the campers. Representing the wide diversity of TheGoodLife! Fam, 2017’s crop of campers were a radical group of artists, musicians, photographers, models, writers, chefs, activists, and athletes, whose collective creative energy was unmatched. Needless to say, we created some beyond epic experiences! Please settle in and get ready for some major camp vibes as we present the Camp Nice Super Re-Cap Extravaganza! All film photography by Craig Wetherby. Words by Tim Brodhagen. Can’t wait for next year!!

Calling all campers…

Yung Sig was one of the first to arrive…

And she got settled in pretty nice at her lakeside tent zone in the Burton x Big Agnes classic!

Next up was Akira & Amaya…

Our new camp mascot Hubert the Heron swooped on by for a sunset welcome…

While Siggy earned the first Boating Badge!

Akira & Amaya got right on Fire Badge duty as soon as the sun set…

Fire Badge EARNED!

Welcome to CAMP NICE! We have arrived!!

The ambitious duo were up bright and early to earn their Fishing Badges!

Captain Blue was there at weigh in to make sure they had some keepers!

Blue popped up the Red Hook Snack Bar and got his Grill Master Badge on with the quickness!

Tono was enjoying the goodness!

Becky, Bree & Cass got theirs!

And so did Rata…YUM!

You know Pat wasn’t sleeping on this either.

Then it was time to start smoking the meat for the Cutty Sark Pioneer Grill!

YUP! Very official!

And might as well add some ABK Beer to the mix!

We were definitely STOCKED UP!

Plenty of Cutty to go around too!

As we got into the night the drinks started flowing!

Blue was focused!

But it was well worth the wait! We all eat right at Camp Nice!

Very NICE!

Thanks to John & Jennifer for getting down with us!

Oscar the Owl was feeling the Cutty merch too!

Now it was S’Mores time! And our friends at Unreal came thru with the healthy vegan goodness!

WHOA!!!

S’MORE PLEASE!!

Toasted bagels were definitely on the breakfast menu!

Our library got a nice upgrade this year with Ricky Powell’s latest creation The Individualist! Thank you!

Yup! Even The Lazy Hustler came thru this year!

Next up was Arts & Crafts time with some custom Camp Nice screen printing with Tono!

Heather whipped up a nice one!

Everyone got their tie dye on!

Blotto got busy!

These guys were earning all the badges!

Erika was a pro!

Chenoah got crafty with it too! Thank you Cass!

Petey aka DJ Smoke L.E.S. was in the house!

Joe’s Pizza!

Arts & Crafts Badges for all!

All the colors were definitely pretty trippy…

Now it was time to earn some Archery Badges with Coach Becky!

These guys were on another level!

Hannah was a sharp shooter..

And so was Timbo!

Emma was pretty on point!

Blotto had that eagle eye!

It was unseasonably hot out so we had to get back in the water! Hannah couldn’t wait!

Siggy & Sable were ready to go!

Chenoah was down too!

Cass was doing it right!

Even tho Pat was trying to harsh her mellow…

Looked very refreshing!

  After some fun in the sun it was time start chilling hard in the hammock. Hannah earned her Rigging Badge!

Pat didn’t waste any time…after all he had a very chillactive day!

Cass was down too!

Catch of the Day!

Paella Time!

Thats right…

OOOF!

Sunsets were proper!

Moonsets were better!

But Becky’s Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler was even better…

Becky is kinda the BEST if you haven’t heard…

She’s always down for an adventure…

FEARLESS!

Siggy & Sable are pretty badass too!

YEAHERRR!!!

Cass got higher than most…

Emma earned style points…

TJ dropped in!

Sable got her eagle on!

Too much fun ! ! !

Sebas was a natural!

Aimz was glowing with joy!

Teamwork makes the dream work! Especially when wearing Pats Pants!!

But wait…Back to Becky…She even shoots arrows in a kimono!!

WINNING AT LIFE!

Miranda stays WINNING!

And so does Erika!

TJ was winning too!

Jesse thought he had the advantage with his non-regulation sharp shooter specs on but got disqualified…

TJ clinched the big WIN!

Archery Badge EARNED!

After a rough day at the archery range The Zen Brothers got their midnight lakeside set crackin!

Next morning Amie was first one to step up to get her Fire Badge…

EARNED!!

George liked to sleep late…

Rise & Shine!

Mermaid Badges were waiting to be earned…

Siggy earned hers!

Now time to earn some more Boating Badges…right after this quick photo shoot tho! Brian was getting it in!

Chenoah earned her Boating Badge…

So did Pat & Cass…

All the pups were trying to earn their Boating Badges too!

They were out in full force!

Ranger Larry even took our camp kitty out for a cruise! Willy B just wanted some fish!!

Boating Badge EARNED!

Now time to chill…

Or keep earning more badges…

Nothing gets by Sig Nasty! Gaming Badge EARNED!

TheGoodLife! FC was representing at Camp Nice!

Miranda’s been down since day one!

Willy B knows whats up!

Bree luvs the pups…

Mo loves everyone!

And Willy B loves hunting for chipmunks!

Miranda loves knitting!

Amaya was all love!

Sam is lovely…

Camp Nice is for lovers…

No haters allowed! G-O-O-D-L-I-F-E-!

It was the chillest of chill…

NAMASTE!

And all that good shit…

Speaking of good shit…EDAN brought those records of warmth for our enjoyment…

Ricky was digging the selections!

And EDAN stayed digging for those gems!

Life was lovely!

Blotto’s breakfast tacos were lovely too!

And so is Bree…

Willy gets all the lovin…

Ricky wasn’t mad…

Saftey First says the Substitute Lifeguard…

No worries here…

Blue kept on reeling ’em in!

Pat was just cruizin…

Fun activities for everyone!

Who’s got next??

Still got game…

The Pasta Queens came ready to ball!

Sam got an ill jumpshot!

And they didn’t play around in the kitchen either…

Pasta for everyone! Cooking Badge EARNED!

BOOM!!

More S’Mores!

Best dessert ever!

Then things got LIT!

The tunes were perfect! The Dardy’s came thru!

Then it was time to go find the haunted cabin!

Things started to get weird!

We all needed a hug after that experience…

The freaks definitely come out at night!

The rest of the VT Crew finally joined us and Ranger Larry was there with the warm welcome.

Matt Kruz of the Gnarmads rode his bike up from NYC to join in the festivities! Beer Badge EARNED!!

Ricky definitely earned his Beer Badge too!

Pat shredded every obstacle he found!

And The Dardy’s were showing off their skills too!

Jozie brought her A-Game!

Amanda had a mean shot too!

Back down at the lake water sports were in full effect!

It was popping!

Spirits were definitely high!

Blue was in the zone!

We eat what we catch!

And then we play!

Horseshoe Champs!

Gaming Badge EARNED!

Fireside Stick & Poke…Arts & crafts Badge EARNED!

Mermaid Badge EARNED!

We couldn’t ask for a nicer night! The moon set over the lake was EPIC!

As the morning approached the fog slowly rolled in…

It was pretty eerie but beautiful…

Misty Mornings

Pat was losing his grip…

Emel was in rare form…

Chenoah, The High Priestess, was taking it all in…

Break Night Badge EARNED!

Farnum showed up and decided to move right in! Camp Nice for LIFE!

It wasn’t bad at all…

We weren’t quite ready to leave just yet…

So we grabbed our trusty cruisers and headed down for a final wood run! Thank you Shimano Bike NYC!

It was all downhill from here…

Woodsman Squad!

Everyone pitched in…

Ranger Larry put in some quality time but had to break out….

One last paddle around the lake to say peace to our homie Hubert…

Really gonna miss these Strawberry Sunsets…

And we OUT!

Final catch!

Not to shabby!

Blue was happy!

Set them free…

Last light!

Camp Nice was exceptionally nice this year…

All our hard work definitely paid off but it was now time to finally say goodbye…

Major THANK YOU to all those who supported and survived CAMP NICE! Til next year…

[thetjbailey]

Theo knew he wouldn't have made it through without Jazzy supporting him and calling, even showing up for visits. He was beyond grateful to have an older sister that was not only super involved, but also cared so much about him. She would always go the extra mile for him and in return he would do anything for her. They had always been fairly inseparable, even as kids. "Jaz when do you think I get up? I'm at the bakery at three or four am every single morning." he couldn't help but shake his head in amusement that she seemed to think he got out of being up at the crack of dawn. "And yeah, sometimes it does suck. But its all about routine. Once you are in the groove, its not so bad." he shrugged. Once inside the store, Theo tried to remember what size he was as he began browsing t-shirts. "It is. For real, he never would." he agreed with a chuckle, playfully rolling his eyes at her elbowing him. "My fate is in your hands sis."

It had been weird for her, having a brother in jail, but she had never doubted that he'd get through it. She was always there for him and always would be, loving both of her siblings more than anything else in this world. So having him back was great and something she was so thankful for. "True, though thankfully you don't have to get up that early to start working," she pointed out, as bakeries started working before they actually opened, "because that shit sucks." She said with a giggle as they walked into the mall to get started shopping. "But that's good about your PO, and yeah I highly doubt dad would fire you even if you burnt the muffins," she said with a playful elbow job to his side. "Oh you'll be looking great by the end of the day."

[thetjbailey]

Beck & Theo / Call

Theo: - slightly agitated - Beck? Can you talk? Theo: Is this phone even working.. @beckholloway

[thetjbailey]

Stepping off the thread mill and wiping his brow and neck with a towel, Theo calmly headed over to the weight section. He had finally managed to get a gym membership and was steadily getting back into his own work out routine which felt great. The opportunities out here in the real world when it came to something as simple as working out were endless. Whereas in prison he had been confined to only a few tools, this gym seemed to have everything.

He was waiting for one of the weight benches to become available, when he noticed one of the guys didn't have a spotter. "Hey, do you need me to spot you for a bit? I really don't mind." he offered, walking closer to the bench the other was on and offering a friendly smile. Hopefully he wasn't the type that would be offended at being asked.

@elliot-monroe

[thetjbailey]

Theo James Bailey intro

About Theo James

Full Name: Theodore James Bailey 

Faceclaim: Kendrick Sampson

Pronouns/Gender: He/him / Male

Age & Birthday: 31 years old,  29th of July, 1993

Birth Place: New Orleans, Louisiana

How long have they been in town?: Two months

Living Situation (Find a list of places to live here.): Lives with his father in a 3 bedroom home in Grand Marquis 

Occupation: Works as a baker at Blissful Bites 

Family (Siblings, significant others, children, etc. (Please give us birthdays or birth years for any children!): Teddy Bailey(father) 

BIOGRAPHY

Theodore James, known as TJ or Theo, grew up in a full house with two older siblings and his parents. He was a playful kid, the type who loved to joke around and pull pranks just to make his family laugh. He was curious about life and loved to try new things, from food to sports to entertainment. He quickly became known as the kid who never said no. Also in the sense that he loved helping out around the house just if it made his parents happy. At school he was the jokester who appeared to be unable to take anything serious unless forced to. All around a bubbly boy. But when his mom left the family after their move from New Orleans to New Bellevoux, TJ changed. He was just nine years old, but he turned into an angry kid with too many emotions. First he was punching other kids at school, disrupting class and spending most afternoons in detention. Then he began hanging around the older boys who were known as the troublemakers, doing tasks for them. And with the hormones slowly coming on, that meant he more often than not lost himself to his emotions and left impulse control behind. Slowly but surely, he became one of the troublemakers himself. Suddenly he was smoking and snorting substances no one, certainly no teenager should consume, drinking too much and owning a gun. Despite the fact that he played on the football team and ran on the track team at school, he quit it all when he turned eighteen. He began running with a small but criminally involved local gang. Everyone knew they were trouble, and it was hard on TJ’s family. They tried to help him steer towards a safer, better path. But he would not hear of it. His friends were too important to him, or his reputation, or the money he made from it all. 

At 24 years old, TJ was arrested and then prosecuted for owning an illegal firearm and drug possession. The former he pleaded guilty to, but not the latter. He had always been careful, but somehow the police had found heroin in the trunk of his car. And he was faced with a difficult choice, rat out his friends and paint a target on his back when he was sent to prison, or keep his mouth shut. Theo opted for the second, knowing that he could also put his family at risk if he cooperated with the police should his boss and so called friends not be able to punish him behind bars. He was sentenced to five years, as the judge saw more of his skin color than the details of his case and decided he was too dangerous to let out too soon. 

TJ served his five years in Louisiana State Penitentiary, and was released two months ago. Owning nothing to his name, with no higher education or job experience, he moved back in with his dad and has started working at the family bakery as a baker. He was always a great cook and loved to use his grandmother's recipes in the kitchen, so it's something he actually does enjoy. For the moment he is trying to rediscover himself as a free man. His years inside were harsh and has left him with scars, but he is hopeful that now that he has served his debt to society, he can start to build more of a life for himself close to his family. His dad and siblings mean everything to him and Theo feels like he has a lot of making up to do. He wants to show them he can be a better man deserving of their love and others. 

Headcannons

TJ is an avid whistler, and will pretty much whistle whenever he is bored or doing something physical or even walking down the street 

He read a lot in prison, and became quite taken with american classics. But also he secretly loves reading romance novels 

He is very scared that he will end up miserable and alone, while also fearing commitment because he still struggles with self worth after his mother left the family, and him behind. He’s scared that opening his heart to someone else will mean they could leave him and break his heart too. 

While his go to defense used to be humor, he is working on being as honest as he can be 

He struggles with PTSD after prison and is prone to vivid nightmares of his most difficult times there, or just dreaming that he is back behind bars

Tj works out out of routine, as he did work out a lot in his cell or the yard in prison, this includes running as well as floorwork 

He will do anything for his family, but he often wonders if it wouldn’t be better for them all if he skipped town and disappeared. He knows that as an ex con he is on a lot of peoples radar and that coming back home means taking that with him around his family. At the same time, he does not want to wind up dying on the streets before he has lived half his life. 

He will help anyone out if needed, wanting to be seen as a good neighbor, good son and good citizen 

Connections Platonic

Goofy friends 

Psudo sibling friends 

Good influence 

Frenemies 

Childhood friends 

Romantic

FWBs 

Ex from high school 

Hook ups 

Someone’s future baby daddy (?)

[thetjbailey]

Just being inside the gallery made Theo feel inspired. Wondering if he shouldn't have brought his pad and charcoal to sketch a little after he was done here. Of course, he could never measure up to these actual artists who poured their life, sweat and tears into works of art. He'd toyed with the idea of doing something more narrative like a comic strip or graphic novel when he was younger. Now it just seemed too out of his league. He'd need a degree to get hired anywhere, and at thirty one he didn't possess one. "Thank you, I will." he said with a soft smile to the girl. "Truth be told I'm mostly here to be inspired." he confessed, hoping she wouldn't be put off that he wouldn't purchase anything. "That's amazing. Really? I didn't know we had such prominent artists here in our small town. That's great though!"

It had been a slow morning, and even if Addison was angry with the world and her father she could be happy to see a customer. This was her job after all and putting on a friendly smile was key. "Browse away." Addison smiled, knowing that it meant he might not actually be a sale. "Art is made to be viewed. We have a lot to explore in our collection." Addison nodded and surveyed the piece he was looking at. "Most of the art in here is from local artists. A few are actually from New Bellevoux, but all are fairly local. Some are from New Orleans, some all around Louisiana and we even have a few from Texas."

[thetjbailey]

Truth be told Theo had been a little nervous asking his dad to move back in. He had not been any kind of model son since he hit puberty and his mom left them, and by acting out the way he had, he'd somewhat punished his dad with his anger and rebellion instead of the person he was actually angry with.. But then his mother had not been around for him to be angry with or mad at. Somehow though, no matter what he did or who he became, his dad never stopped loving him. He was an amazing parent who had been dealt a really crappy hand. For the time being though, it was safe being back home. And he was lucky to have his family around for support.

"I wouldn't know either after years away from ordinary society." He shrugged. "At least you don't try super hard to be hip or modern like some men your age." he chuckled a little at that, not even able to picture what that would look like. "Thanks dad. Just doing my part." he smiled back, not entirely able to outright take the compliment. Sure he was decent as a home cook but he was no pastry chief. Free reign of choice? Nice! "How about trying that new greek place?" he suggested, feeling like a kid being told he could have pizza for dinner.

Teddy chuckled at his son, just happy to have him home. He knew many other fathers would be upset with what TJ had done over the years. How he was acting out and getting into a couple for a few years and then going to prison was a lot. Teddy knew that and was disappointed but he knew TJ had his reasons. That he had moved back home too was another thing. But Teddy was happy he had a large home still, and it was just him and his dog most of the time. So Teddy was glad to have one of his kids back home.

He shook his head. "Like I know anything about what is in style," he said, twirling his hair. " I know your hand has helped make it busy," he smiled at his boy. "What are you feeling" he used his hand to show TJ to follow him to the kitchen. " Iam down for whatever you like" he smiled.

[thetjbailey]

It was rare that Theo steppe food in one might say one of the fanciest restaurants in New Bellevux. As someone from a lesser prominent family he wasn't much about overpaying for food when he could help it. As it were he had met the apprentice chief at the store the other day and realized they were old classmates. Which in return meant that they'd had a lot to catch up on and discuss. Apparently the lasagna here was the places pride and joy and he had been offered to come try a few slices free of charge. Anything that was free ought to not be turned down.

Thus he found himself alone at a table, only paying for his soda. It was a challenge to be anywhere that served alcohol if he was being honest. He had to make a conscious effort not to slip into familiar patterns where he would justify five or ten drinks amd then struggle to keep on the straight and narrow path he had been on since his incarceration. His dad would be very disappointed should he start messing about again. And his sister would surely not watch without a word either. It was for them that he had sworn off any substances that might entice the wrong behavior. Catching the male on the table over staring intensely at his drink, he wondered if he wasn't regretting his choice. He sheugged calmly when the other spoke. "Just a little. I'm sure it's only you being deep in thought and the glass happened to be there?" He was curious though so he inquired.

FOR: @newbellevouxstarters WHEN: July 24' WHERE: The Renaissance Bar. Int.

The Renaissance had a reputation as one of the trendiest bars in New Bellevoux, and Caelen could see why. Not only was it filled with people who could afford the lofty prices, but affluence seemed to be the tradesmen's ship for the clientele tonight. Every time he glanced around the room, he had to remind himself that he could afford to be here now. That his bank account wouldn't cry a river of tears come morning. (But Caelen still might.) It was his first time, and honestly, he felt out of place. Caelen was a sociable guy, don't get him wrong, but without a single person he knew...he didn't know where to start.

Like a fish out of water.

His friend, Ryan, cancelled the last minute, which, unfortunately for him, was a common reoccurrence he'd long chosen not to get annoyed at. It came with the price of being his friend. So there he sat, drinking alone as if that wasn't a siren going off in his head...a warning. After his return from the Seals, he'd been but a shell of a man he'd once been. So different from the boy who'd entered, and the full-grown adult who'd left. Something had died in him over there, and he was trying to bring it back to life. He just had no idea how.

Alcohol had proven, time and time again, it could drag him back down into that endless spiral of self sabotage. So his eye caught the drink, staring at it intently, fiercely until his eye caught someone staring right back at him. "I must look real fuckin' strange staring at my glass like I can move it with my mind." his cheeks flushing dusted pink, as he offered that practiced grin.

[thetjbailey]

Out of all the places in town Theo had missed while inside, the library was the one he had often thought of and missed the most. Not because he had been here much as a teen and young adult, but because of the wide range of selection. In prison the selection was far more limited and they did not have a lot of multiples. In the public library though they had more than three of almost every non rare title. It was almost incomprehensible to him that this kind of range and density of books could exist all in one place. Previous in life Theo had cared little for books or gaining knowledge trough reading. But as he had read a lot while serving his sentence, he was now and avid reader and found it a decent way to pass the time.

Checking out a new title he had recently read a couple of decent reviews of, he was surprised to be interrupted by a beautiful brunette. "Stephen King? God he's amazing! One very important question though, do you like it darker? Because this would definitely be a decent place to start if you just want to figure out if you like his writing and the horror genre. If you do not care for horror or thriller fiction, I would try one or two shorts in this and see. But if you are not open too then it's really just not for you." He said, trying to explain but also curious if this was her kind of book genre. Personally he had loved the darker and psychological aspects of the books.

Location: Lafayette Hills Public Library Featuring: Ingrid Halseth and Open (0/3)

To say that Ingrid needed a break would be an understatement. In between taking care of her beloved father and teaching for several hours a day, she didn’t get a lot of free time and when she did, she spent it visiting Sydney whenever she could. Ingrid figured now was as good of a time as any to swing by the public library and pick up a new book. The problem was that she wasn’t entirely sure what to pick, having looked over different sections and didn’t find anything that appealed to her tastes.

With this, she decided to check out the new releases section and almost laughed out loud at some of the options. Too many young adult novels and titles she could recognized from TikTok. Then, she spotted You Like It Darker by Stephen King and took it off the shelf and silently read the back. Despite having heard nothing, but great things about the author, Ingrid never read a Stephen King book and wondered if she should change that.

“Hi, excuse me,” She asked the stranger next to her, realizing immediately they don’t work at Lafayette Hills from their attire. “Sorry to be a bother, but I’m having a bit of a dilemma. I have to admit I never read anything by Stephen King before.” Upon confessing, Ingrid ran pale fingers through her dark tresses and pushed them out of her face. “Have you? Is this book a good place to start?”

[thetjbailey]

Being away from one another had been hard but they had gotten trough it. Despite all the years that had gone by, awfully slowly for him but quite differently he imagined for both Jazzy and his dad, Theo had to try to live in the present. Focus on what was good now and what they could do now that he was a free man again. Even if he still felt like he had one foot inside his prison cell. Acclimating would take him some time, to say the very least. Meeting his sisters gaze, he nodded. "I mean he's hardly there when I am since I get up before the crack of dawn to bake but its nice to feel like I'm contributing and helping dad out. And it does look good to my PO. He's content that I have a job with minimal risk of getting fired." He had to grin a little at that last bit. He would have to do something truly horrific to make his father fire him. Feeling the force of her push only made Theo laugh as he too exited the car and fell in step with her walking towards the mall. "At least I'll look super hip when you are done."

For those years TJ had been locked up, Jazzy missed her partner in crime. It was difficult having one person who you shared just about everything with, someone you grew up with to suddenly be under the watchful eye of the criminal justice system. But that was the past and Jazzy was so happy to have her little brother home. She unbuckled her own seat belt and nodded as he spoke, "that's good and yeah working with dad has to be good and look good for your PO right?" She asked, always having heard that someone who got out had a parole officer and they'd check up on them from time to time. "Ew dude!" She exclaimed and punched him again, this time a little bit harder. "I don't, " she exclaimed in a huff and got out of the car, "let's go," she nodded towards the mall. "T-shirts it is."

[thetjbailey]

While he had considered himself too cool for the art scene back in high school, Theo had spent a good amount of time sketching as a young adult. It was a hobby he had taken with him during his time in prison, and what had prompted him to step into the gallery today. "Ahm thank you." he said with a polite smile when the young girl came straight over after he had barely crossed the treshhold. Someone took their job seriously, that was for sure. "I am just browsing. I was curious to see the work currently on display." He said as he let his eyes wander some, their attention drawn to a beautiful painting. "Really? Are a lot of the pieces from local artists?"

Who: Open 0/4 @newbellevouxstarters Where: Artful Aura

"Welcome to Artful Aura." Addison's voice came from behind the tall counter at the back of the gallery. The little chime above the door alerted her to the new customer. "Are you looking for something in particular today, or just browsing?" Leaving the paperwork she had been working on, Addison approached the person. As their gaze moved to the piece hanging on the wall, Addison launched into professional mode. "That's a new piece actually. We just got it in from a local artist working out of New Orleans. Do you like it?"

[thetjbailey]

Theo was always amazed at his familys work ethic. His dad had taken over the bakery without a second thought and was there every single day even though at this point he probably did not have to be. And Jazzy was both at the country club and working the counter. If anything it was proof that the family business would thrive and grow for a long time. While inside, he had considered what to do with his life when he got out. Which path to take when he was free to make something more of himself than he had in the past. And truth was, he really didn't know. Sure he could save and go to University in a year or two, but he wouldn't have a clue what classes to take. It was why being at the bakery was so comforting. He had a certain set of skills, inherited and taught from his grandmother, and those he could easily use. If he'd had more people skills, he would have considered taking over for his dad when he was ready to retire. Though at the moment that seemed.. too big, too daunting. He already had so much to make up for and it was more than enough doing his best to stay on the straight and narrow at the moment.

A slight playful grin slid onto TJ's lips at the teasing remark. "What? Isn't this the new style?" he joked back. The praise had him nod. "That's good to hear. We're trying out a few new recepies together with the standard items so its nice that its being received well." Leaning his hands into his pockets, he tilted his head a little as he listened to his dads proposal. "Sure, that would be nice pops."

The excellent part of owning the bakery he didn't have to be there early to get it ready. He helped with baking and getting food ready, but he wasn't a baker. He was there to care of his staff and anyone who came inside. He ring people up and talk to the guest of the barkey. But he was glad his kids worked or had worked at the barkey it made him feel very happy and proud. Having TJ back did make Teddy happy he love having his son back and close by. Yes he was disappointed at first with what TJ had done but he still loved his son no matter what. He knew TJ had worked early and Teddy had went in later in the day for his shift and now had made it home.

He chuckled, seeing his boy " Nice bedhead," he teased as he walked up to the stairs. "Good, the Barkey did well again, " he smiled. "Everyone said everything tasted great," he smiled as he knew TJ was a part of the baking today. "I was thinking," he looked around, "We can order dinner," over Teddy cooking like he normally would. @thetjbailey

[thetjbailey]

Theo: I'm lucky that you guys won't. And I can't mess this up. I have a kid to take care of now. And I can't let her down either. Theo: Yes, she is alive and she is here. Theo: He is.. Do you think he will be mad? This is too much..

Jazzy: Don't be sorry, and you won't. I won't let you. Dad won't let you.

Jazzy: She's alive? And she's here!?

Jazzy: Oh wow, um I'm sure he'll be okay...he's strong