#((with stills of famous films in them; it was an amazing store-i actually bought my first copy of the 1925 'phantom' there!))

[theheadlessgroom]

Randall, fortunately, had gotten enough sleep the night before, that was not the issue. After parting ways with Emily (watching her disappear into a house, blowing a silent kiss at her departing figure), he headed on home, practically falling asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow, sleeping like a rock until his alarm went off at its usual hour, and he prepared to begin the day anew.

So no...a lack of sleep was not the issue.

The issue, as it so often was, was Minnie.

“You better not be slacking off, Pace!” she barked at him, graying hair coming loose from its bun as she bent down to snap at him at his table, while Randall, sinking where he sat, kept his tone even as he swore to her, “No, Miss Minnie, I’m not slacking. I’m working as fast as I can.”

“You better be!” she ranted, slamming her hand against the wood of the desk, causing some of the needles and spools of thread to briefly jump into the air as she continued, “This could be the most important commission of your miserable life, and you should be grateful for the opportunity!”

“I am, Miss Minnie, I am.” “As you should be! God knows why Mr. Gracey asked a bogtrotter like you of all people to work on his hat, but you should be grateful that he did; Lord knows you don’t hardly deserve it, you lazy mick! You better be giving everything you’ve got on this project, Pace, because if you don’t, then so help me God, I’ll-!”

It was, at that very moment, that Dorian and Emily arrived at the haberdashery, arm in arm: At the sight of them, Minnie immediately softened, becoming all sweetness and light (a very familiar sight to Randall) as she approached the two of them, smiling brightly as she greeted, “Well, hello, Mr. Gracey, Miss de Clair, how lovely to see you both! Are you here to check on your hat, sir?”

“Yes, we are,” Dorian answered, trying not to appear as furious as he felt as he looked down at the woman smiling back at him so kindly-he didn’t miss the way she was addressing his best friend, and although every part of him wanted to snap at her, to demand to know what she was doing, barking at one of her employees (one of her best employees, no less) like a rabid animal, but as hard as it was, he held his tongue.

@beatingheart-bride

"I think that's more than enough raspberries for me!" Dorian laughed, quite liking this solution-the raspberry in the center would make for a pleasant surprise when the cake was sliced into, and the blueberry frosting, a lovely pale blue shade, made for a lovely, picture-perfect cake, with the blueberry and raspberry garnishes topping them a welcome addition.

(What a shame they wouldn't actually get to eat any of it!)

"But is it enough blueberry for you, my dear?" he asked her teasingly, enjoying the game they'd made of this, bantering back and forth with one another, their banter (however platonic it was at heart) seeming much more romantic to those around them-they must've looked like the sweetest pair of lovebirds in all of New Orleans to everyone (oh, if only they knew)!

He had to say, Emily was an excellent actress in her own right; she made a great show of appearing as the happiest bride in all the South, a performance everyone was falling for, hook, line, and sinker! He couldn't have asked for a better co-star in this endeavor, his smile genuine as he made a note to compliment her on her performance later...

[loveactionsspeaklouder]

one year - kylian mbappé and julian draxler fanfic

7|Reunited

Waking up to Adam always made me smile, he made me all gooey inside. I couldn't believe he surprised me. I was so happy he was finally able to experience Paris with me.

"Good morning baby," I smiled pecking his lips. He smiled at me in return, his eyes still closed. I ran my hands through his hair, taking his facial features in, I had missed this feeling. I had missed him. "You're not still tired from last night, are you?"

"No!" he huffed. He pulled me on top of him, his hands gripping my waist. Adam was incredibly playful at times, but when needed, he had a serious side. It was hard to win an argument against him, he had evidence and reasons as to why he was in the right and you were in the wrong. The one major downside of dating a lawyer. "What have you got planned for us today?"

"Well I'm off work so I was thinking we could go into the city and grab some lunch?" I questioned. Because we had the gala tomorrow night, everybody was allowed today off, players and staff included. I hadn't spoken to Julian since he kissed me, not a text message or a phone call. I knew we needed to chat, I just wasn't sure what I was going to say to him.

"That sounds perfect."

After we got dressed and showered, we headed towards my car. I decided to wear a plain black dress, it was quite warm today but with a slight breeze. Adam was dressed in a simple black top with matching jeans, he looked very handsome.

....

We pulled up outside my go-to eating spot in Paris, I ate here that much, I had become a regular. We were welcomed at the door by my favourite waiter, Hugo. "Bonjour Molly, how are we?"

"All good merci, table for two please," I smiled. Hugo nodded and motioned us to follow him, he led us to my usual table. I introduced him to Adam, they seemed to get on well. He took our order and delivered our drinks, today I was on water, something Hugo wasn't used to serving me. He smirked when I asked him for it.

"This place is nice, the food is delicious," Adam smiled. We had just finished out meal, as always, it was amazing. "How did you find it?"

"It's the café I went to with Kylian," I nervously laughed. Adam shook his head, I was relieved when I heard him laugh. "I come here all the time with Ruby and Freddie, you'll meet them tomorrow at the party. Are you excited?"

"I am actually," he chirped. I widened my smile, I was looking forward to introducing him to everyone. "I can't wait to see my superstar girlfriend in action with her footballer friends."

I playfully glared at him. I was about to reply before a figure interrupted me. I closed my eyes shut for a minute, my breathing getting heavier by the second. I couldn't believe he was here. "Haven't seen you in a while, how've you been Moll?"

"It's Molly to you," I hissed. I could see Adam knew who this was, he was a big fan of football. "This is Adam my boyf-"

"Ah the famous boyfriend, glad to finally meet you. I'm Kylian, Molly's favourite player," he smirked. That prick and that fucking smirk. I could feel the tension between the pair. "I hope to see you both at the event tomorrow night, enjoy lovebirds."

He strolled back over to his table, I noticed he was sat with a pretty brunette. She matched the description of Rosalie, his little fuck buddy from around the corner of my apartment, that poor woman. I turned my attention to Adam, he didn't seem fazed by what had just happened.

"Sorry about that," I blushed. "I've been here plenty of times and never seen him. He's such an idiot."

"It's fine babe, don't worry," he softly spoke. He placed a hand over mine, gently tracing his thumb over the top. We paid our bill with Hugo, leaving him a generous tip, we walked past Kylian's table as we left. He looked at me and winked, I rolled my eyes at him. I was quite nervous for tomorrow night; having my boyfriend, Julian and Kylian in the same room could potentially end very awkward. I was hoping that wasn't going to be the case.

....

"Do you have anything to wear for tomorrow?" I quizzed, he looked at me with wide eyes, shaking his head. We were strolling through the city eyeing the various stores, everything in Paris was beautiful. I hadn't thought about what Adam was going to wear, I knew he hadn't bought anything formal with him. "Let's go in here."

We went in four different stores until we found the perfect suit, Adam looked so handsome in it, I knew it was going to be hard to keep my hands of him during the event. I couldn't wait to get all dressed up again with him, it had been far too long.

....

We were now sat on my sofa, my legs draped over his. A film was on in the background whilst we scrolled through our phones, text messages from Ruby popped up on my screen.

Rubes <333: I found Kylian's hoe on Insta

Rubes <333: she's gorgeous. Wayyyyy too good for Kylian

Rubes <333: rosalie_

I scrolled through her pictures, she was stunning. How did he manage that? I can't imagine what she sees in him. After my stalking session, I put my phone down, I cuddled up to Adam's chest. It was my favourite spot in the whole world. He moved his arm to my waist, holding me closer.

"I'm so glad you're here."

[buckybarnesbingo]

What the Pic?

Participants: @ariasfandom, @rebelmeg, @wolfnprey, @ladydarkphoenix-blog, @bookdragon13, @liquidlightz, @jeminamoonnight, @caiti-creative-corner, @ribbonsflyingoutthewindow, @ibelieveinturtles

@ariasfandom - Bucky started watching Oobi and wanted to make an OC of it

@rebelmeg - all sam wanted to do was sleep in.  that was it, that was all he wanted out of a saturday.  which, of course, was the first thing his annoying houseguest decided to ruin, with a fist in his face at the crack of dawn.  a fist wearing googly eyes.  "bucky, what the hell?"

@wolfnprey - This is the default picture Clint sends out when he's judging. Bucky retaliates by posting his own in the vents and hides Clint's arrows.

@ladydarkphoenix-blog - Bucky gets caught watching kids(Sam's nephews, Clint's kids, insert kids here} unaware but has no idea how to entertain them so somehow ends up telling stories with his hands playing characters that are surprisingly effective

@bookdragon13 - Bucky gets drunk on Asgardian mead and thinks it’d be hilarious to put googly eyes on his metal hand and make it talk for him the rest of the night

@liquidlightz - Being an Eldritch deity apparently wasn't as awe inspiring as he'd always assumed himself to be, given that his host was entirely un-phased and thought it was funny to make puppet hands out of him and make up silly stories.  The fact that he found this insult highly entertaining was even worse for his ego.

Keep reading for more!

@bookdragon13 - Bucky buys that for Clint after staying with him for a couple days. Clint absolutely loves it Of course

@rebelmeg - "likl.  likl?!  who approved that?  how did that make it to store shelves!  this is a disgrace!" "bucky, you really need to calm down." "i'll calm down when that travesty is removed from my sight!" going shopping with bucky is never boring.

@ladydarkphoenix-blog - Bought as a gift for himself because Bucky found the misspelling hilarious and it would bug the most important of his guests by making them guess if he didn't notice that little detail or what was happening in his head. Watching them try to deal with it gives Bucky much joy

@wolfnprey - The group stares, unimpressed, as people in the gallery move around them. Nat and Tony insist that the artist is just fucking with people, while Sam and Clint argue over how deep the meaning is. Bucky takes one look at Steve and knows his friend is dying a bit inside at how low art has stooped in the modern age. Bucky's nice enough not to comment that it's made out of a damn shower rug.

@ariasfandom - "Bucky, we live together. I know for a fact you didn't "wake up like this"

@liquidlightz - In the morning, his boyfriend told him how beautiful he looked, and how amazing his hair was, despite having mussed it all up during their passionate evening before.  Apparently Bucky didn't suffer from bed hair but from magically self-smoothing hair.  Ok, so maybe he used his magiks a little to keep it looking so good, what was the harm in that.  So when Bucky saw this in a store he just had to get it and put it by the foot of his bed.

@ladydarkphoenix-blog - Bucky never thought he'd be turned into a dog. He also never thought he'd be staying with Clint and his dog or that the kids in the building would try to disguise him like this

@rebelmeg - bucky wasn't sure to think when he opened his door one morning to find a dog on the step wearing graucho glasses.  he also wasn't sure if he should trust the note tied to the dog's collar that said, "pet me, i'm yours."  but either way, the spaniel was pretty cute, and it turned out to be a snuggler.  worst things could happen.

@ribbonsflyingoutthewindow - If you're going to name your dog Professor Diggory and you're going to ask Bucky to dogsit him, you should be prepared for the fact that Bucky’s going to accidentally make him an internet celebrity. Groucho glasses and the ability to pose very still for a picture while Bucky holds a pretzel between his lips is the easiest way to have a booming Instagram account in under a week. Bucky and Professor Diggory are practically professionals now. Don't be jealous.

@rebelmeg - it has happened every time.  every single time he goes to the mcdonald's closest to his house, they manage to mess up his order somehow.  actually, he's starting to suspect it's on purpose.  there had definitely been a smirk on the guy's face when he handed bucky his order through the window.  that might explain why his request for a cheeseburger with just ketchup had nothing but ketchup between the buns.  hmm.  this might mean war.

@ibelieveinturtles - Sick of working long hours at minimum wage, dealing with shitty customers amd an even shittier manager, Bucky decides its time to try that malicious compliance thing.

@ladydarkphoenix-blog - What's happened to customer service?!?! Back in his day if you made a simple request for a burger with only ketchup the kitchen was smart enough to know what you meant. Were they messing with him? Can they not figure out what a simple order meant? Bucky sighed and shook his head. He'd had worse dinners

@ribbonsflyingoutthewindow - So Steve's got a fuckton of allergies and quite frankly, Bucky doesn't even know what they all are, so telling the person at the drive thru that Steve wanted "a McDouble with just ketchup" was a precautionary action. He thought because he knew Steve was allergic to onions and dairy and mustard that it was safer to ask for only ketchup (probably Steve's only known safe-listed condiment) and potentially not be the one to accidentally murder a man he cared deeply about. But seeing Steve later open the hamburger bun to reveal a bun with a single squirt of ketchup inside made Bucky literally faceplant into his car horn. That was not what he fucking meant.

@rebelmeg - swaying gently in the tropical breeze that smelled like ocean and flowers, bucky smiled to himself.  he was staring up at the clouds and palm trees overhead, his hammock creaking just slightly.  off to his right, his favorite person in the world was sprawled on a towel on the sand, soaking in the sun and drinking some kind of fancy umbrella drink with a silly straw.  best vacation ever.

@ladydarkphoenix-blog​ - Steve made jumping out of planes seem so easy. He never needed a parachute, never seemed to have the aches and pains after. With a sigh, Bucky stared up at the sky. At least he had a good view.

@ribbonsflyingoutthewindow​ - Pic Summary:When Bucky, Sam, and Natasha agreed to share an AirBnB for their Hollywood vacation, they'd only planned to see some famous sights and maybe try to pose with someone as famous as the monkey from the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Then they'd discovered that arguably the two hottest actors in the entire film industry, Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, were sharing the house next door! Overnight it became a bet and then a high stakes fight to the (okay, not actual) death to see which of them could meet one of the two actors first. Bucky hadn't exactly been spying while he was standing hidden behind an open gate on their temporary neighbor's property, but he must have been well hidden anyway because the moment he went to run and hide, a sleek convertible pulled out of the drive and directly into a fleeing Bucky. He kind of hates that his first thought upon opening his eyes and looking up to see only trees and a cloudy blue sky above him was that at least he'd probably won the bet.

[darlingpetao3]

Seducing the Gem (Nash Wells x Reader, Chapter 1/9)

Rating: M (Smut in Chapter 6 only)

Summary: When a mysterious package shows up at your front door, you (a famous Romance novelist) are hurtled from your virtually uneventful life and into one of danger and adventure. In a quest to save your captured friend Caitlin from impending harm, you run into a suave adventurer named Nash who helps you along the way. Or is the charming Nash simply after something in your possession...?

A/N: My Romancing the Stone AU is finally here!! Again, check out the film if you haven’t already (it’s one of my favourites). This has been such a fun series for me to write and I really hope you enjoy it! Major MAJOR thanks to @mintchipcupcake​ for being my beta-reader for this story! (You’re amazing!!) Let me know if any of you would like to be tagged for upcoming chapters. There will be nine installments total and I will do my best to post every Tuesday.

The altered-human stood before me, looming in the shadows of my apartment. His fists glowed with the light of a thousand suns.

“I know who you are,” his voice croaked. A shiver ran down my back. Yes, I was only in my lace nighty, but I was by no means cold.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I feigned innocence. He took calculated steps towards me, and I knew I’d have to act quickly. This guy was not about to try to kill me a second time.

Luckily, ‘acting quickly’ was something I was exceptional at doing.

The brusque altered-human grunted, then lunged at me with a fiery fist. Little did he know that wouldn’t do much.

I saw the punch coming as if it was in slow motion and dodged his attack, watching his hand glide by my head at a turtle’s pace. I let the momentum return to normal before grabbing his wrist and uttering, “You came to the wrong house, pal.”

It was easy to flip him; he made a thump on my hardwood floor and groaned at the impact. I took that opportunity to run circles around him so fast that I could feel the electricity coursing through my veins until it culminated into a bolt of lightning in my hand.

Power up, baby.

I let the bolt fly, dead straight, until it connected with the altered-human’s chest. He shouted, and the impact of the shot hurtled him out my window to the street below.

There was a commotion outside - voices of distressed concern. I knew I’d be in some serious shit, and not just because I threw a man out my window.

I’d be locked up for being an altered-human too.

There was no time to collect any personal items, just my coat, and I knew my powers wouldn’t work again right away. It always took a while for them to store back up. The sirens already blared, announcing the authorities’ arrival. I climbed out the window of my bedroom and shimmied down the fire escape. Only, in my haste, my bare foot slipped and I lost my hold on the wet metal ladder. I screamed for what I thought would be my final act as a living being.

But there was suddenly a big, muscular arm wrapped around my nearly naked self. The wind whipped at my face, blowing my hair every which way. It wasn’t until I was safely set on the ground that I finally saw the face of my swinging saviour. But I’d know that touch anywhere.

My beloved Chase. The one man I trusted. The only real man in this godforsaken city.

“Aw, did you dress down for me?” he said cheekily, looking my scantily clad body up and down.

“Shut it, the cops are here,” I replied, trying to hide my blush, “and they’ll be after you too.”

“Then we better high-tail it.” Chase summoned his grappling hook into the barrel of his gun. “How ‘bout a kiss for the road?”

I pressed up onto the balls of my feet to ghost his lips with mine.

“How about I save us first, then you kiss me later?” I snatch the device from his hand. “Hold on.”

~

You can’t help but swoon at your desk, fanning your face with your hand. You could write about these two forever! However, you think that this is the perfect cliffhanger ending to your latest fantasy-romance manuscript. It will set up Book Two in the series wonderfully.

“You’ve done it again,” you congratulate yourself on a job well done. It’s been quite the journey in writing this, and of course, you’ve fallen in love with yet another male character you’ve created.

But there’s just something about Chase that makes him your favourite. You think that your readers are really going to like him, fall in love with him as you have.

Deciding you need to celebrate finishing your draft, you make your way to the kitchen in your sweats, hoodie, and fluffy socks. In doing so, you pass the numerous hanging posters of your New York Times bestselling novels and fanart done by fans.

Humming a tune to yourself, you make a beeline for the fridge, and - there it is - the small personal-sized cake you had bought for this moment. You knew you’d finish the book today, and if the happy-cliffhanger-ever-after ending wasn’t something to look forward to, the cake definitely was.

Maybe you’ll bust out the hot chocolate too.

And perhaps some Bailey’s to go with it. And a bubble bath? Oh, tonight was going to be fabulous!

It’s just you living alone in your apartment, along with all the characters you’d created, residing in your head and begging to have their stories told on paper. You didn’t win the Romance Writer of the Year Award for being a slacker. You didn’t have time for anything else. You didn’t have time for anyone else, or so you continuously tell yourself. However, if a handsome and dashing man like Chase were ever to enter your life, who knows?

What would it be like to be swooped in on and saved like that? What would it be like to save him in return? Alas, you think, you will never find out. You live a virtually uneventful life. You don’t have fictitious altered-human powers (though you wished you did), there’s no one chasing you or wanting to kill you. Likewise, there was no significant-other on the horizon, and now you feared that no one would ever compare to the fictional man you’d created for your latest novel.

These novels are your only means of romance and fantastic adventures. You live in your own creations. It’s an escape - An opportunity to live something so impossible.

Curling up on the couch, you sip your spiked hot cocoa and shovel spoonfuls of the delicious cake in your mouth.

“Here’s to you, Chase,” you toast the imaginary hero in your life.

***

You wake up to an incessant vibration. And while that may sound like a fun way to wake up, it’s just your phone.

Ew, someone’s calling me.

You give a quick stretch from your position on the couch where you’d fallen asleep last night before answering the call.

Strange… it’s an Unknown Caller.

Normally, you’d leave it. After all, as you like to say, “If it’s important, they’ll leave a message.” But today, you think, why not? You’re still on cloud nine from finishing your book.

“Hello?” you answer. There’s no reply, but the call still hasn’t dropped. Someone is still there. “Hello?” you try again.

Whoever it is on the other line ends the call, and you’re left incredibly confused. It’s too early in the morning for this-

Oh, shit!

You just remember you have a meeting with your publisher this morning! Shit! You throw your blanket off of you and dash to your bedroom to make yourself at least semi-professional looking. You think you manage to pull it off, too, but you know you won’t look half as gorgeous as Mrs. West-Allen.

As you scoop up your manuscript and take one step out the door, you see a small package that must have been delivered recently. What shocks you most is the name of the sender.

Ronald Raymond.

But that’s impossible. Ronnie, Caitlin’s fiancé, he’s dead…

You shove it back inside your apartment with your foot. That weirdness can wait, you’ve got a book to sell. Ahh!

It’s a brisk nearly-winter day in Central City. The snow hasn’t begun to fall quite yet, but you’re anticipating it. I wonder what it would be like to write about Chase and his adventures in the snow. Imagine being cozied up next to him in an abandoned cabin with a fireplace and a bearskin rug-

Okay, you are so going to write these thoughts down when you get the next chance. It could be fodder for the sequel!

By the time you make it to Jitters, Iris West-Allen is heading to sit down in one of the large comfy leather chairs in the middle of the cafe with two coffees. You sigh in relief that she’d only just arrived too.

“Hey, you!” she greets you. “There’s my favourite author!”

“Iris, hi,” you take the coffee she offers and you both air kiss each other’s cheeks.

“Is that the manuscript?” Your publisher points to the massive tome of printed-out pages under your shoulder.

“It most certainly is!”

Iris claps her hands together once. “I’m so excited to read it. Now sit, sit. We have lots to discuss.”

Over the next forty-five minutes, you both discuss the book itself, new book tour information starting in the new year, and everything in between. At one point, the conversation takes a turn when your friend and boss starts pointing out various men around the café. She’s always been keen to set you up with someone, as you have been incredibly single for a very long time now.

You wish she wouldn’t, though.

“What about that guy?” she points out a man at the order counter, but adds, “No, never mind. Too bland.” She eyeballs the room looking for eligible bachelors.

“Too gross.”

“Too desperate.”

“Too hipster.”

“Too happy.”

You laugh. “Iris, your husband is actual sunshine, remember?”

“Well, what about him, hmm?” Iris motions with her eyes off to the side - a man with a too-perfect coiff and a shit-eating grin. He winks at you.

You internally cringe. “No, no, it’s just, he’s not…”

“What? He’s not Chase Hutton? Come on, (Y/N).”

“I know, but Iris, I believe there’s someone amazing out there for me. I don’t know where, and I don’t know how, but I’ll find him. And he’s not that guy. Why do you have to bring this up all the time?”

Iris places a hand on yours. “Because I can’t stand seeing you lonely and waiting for someone who’s not real.”

“One - being lonely and being alone are two different things. And two - I’m not waiting for someone who’s not real. Here-” you slide the manuscript across the coffee table to her. “Read it and swoon. I did. Hundreds of times.”

Iris gives you a look.

“Let me know what you think,” you add, standing up and getting ready to leave.

“You’re leaving already?” she asks. “Stay, I’ll get you another coffee. I’m ordering you to. I’m your boss.”

“I can’t.”

“Listen, I’m sorry for that, (Y/N). I didn’t mean anything by what I said or for making you come out here. I just want you to get out, you know? You���ve worked so hard and are doing amazing work, and I know you’re still worried about Caitlin. Because I sure as hell am.”

“Yeah, it’s weird,” you muse at the mention of your mutual friend, “I thought she’d still need me to talk to about everything, but maybe she needs some space? I’m pretty sure she’s still in Africa doing Doctors Without Borders because I haven’t heard otherwise.”

Iris seems like she’s debating on saying something.

“Did they ever find her husband’s body?” she whispers.

“Ronnie? No, but no one could have survived such an explosion... But you know what’s even weirder? I got a package from Ronnie. Today. Which is totally impossible, though depending on when it was sent… I don’t know. It was just really strange.”

“Wow, yeah. God, I hope Caitlin’s okay. Can you imagine having your husband blown up? You’ll keep me posted if you hear anything?”

“Yeah… but yes, I’ll let you know if anything comes up.”

***

Fishing out your keys from your coat, you can’t help but think about everything Iris said. How could she think you were lonely? You are a strong, independent woman who doesn’t need a man (but would like one very much, maybe)! But he can’t just be any man. He’s got to be brave, and he’s got to be strong, and yup, now you’re singing Bonnie Tyler in your head.

You turn the key in the door, but it’s already unlocked. I did lock it when I left, didn’t I?

It only takes you a few steps inside before you see it all.

Your entire apartment has been completely and utterly destroyed.

Furniture flipped, cushions ripped, bookshelves fallen and books scattered everywhere, glass broken. There’s so much going on in this picture that you almost can’t believe this has happened to you.

You bring a shaky hand up to your mouth. It’s nearly impossible to catch your breath because it’s been stolen from you out of fear. As you survey the wreckage, you give a jolt when your phone rings and vibrates in your pocket.

Damn phone calls, Jesus Christ!

“Hello?” you answer, eyes still fixed on the disaster.

“(Y/N), it’s Caitlin.”

Why is she calling me now, all of a sudden? It’s been forever.

“Caitlin?”

“(Y/N), I need you to listen to me.”

There’s a quiver in her voice, which is very unlike the Caitlin Snow Ph.D. you know and love.

“Cait, what’s going on?” you press.

“I’m in trouble,” she replies slowly. “Did you happen to receive a package from Ronnie? A small, brown package?”

“Yes,” you draw out the word, “Why, what is it?”

“Oh, thank God. Inside is a sort of GPS beacon for a kind of treasure? I don’t know anything about it, but that’s what these men are telling me. I need you to bring that device here to me in the Congo as soon as possible-”

“Caitlin, the Congo? My God, what kind of trouble are you in?”

“Please, just- I need you to go to the Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel. When you arrive there, call this number-” Your friend rattles off a series of numbers. “But listen, you cannot tell anyone. They said they’d kill me if you alert anyone.”

This is all too much, too fast. It’s almost impossible to comprehend. “I can’t go to the Congo! And what men-?” You hear the sound of a weapon firing up. “Okay, okay, okay! I’ll do it, I’ll be there!” You shout into your phone so these men can hear you.

But the line goes dead.

[killerqueenys]

successful||roger taylor x reader

Warning(s): none

Word count: 4,278

A/N: This is a request from @deacyloverogerinalove! I really enjoyed writing this even though it took me a little while. I’m really grateful for all the love that my first fic got and there will definitely be more parts. Also, if you have any requests, feel free to dm me any time! Ok, enjoy!

Summary/request:  Reader and Roger were best friends as children, so close, they were born in the same day in the same hospital on the same ward and their mothers soon became friends as did they. But when it hit high school and Reader left to pursue acting, they had a huge argument and hated each other. An amazing friendship turned into pure hatred for one another. Her reason for leaving was that everyone in their home town was unsuccessful, a nobody. But when she returns years later, she’s just that. A nobody and with Roger being a world famous drummer. She tries to reconnect with him after changing her name and she’s basically gold digging.

“It’s ridiculous!”

You had been fighting with your best friend for the past hour. You didn’t know how or when the conversation had escalated, but now you were both yelling venomous words at one another that could never be taken back.

“Ridiculous? Roger, it’s my dream! This is what I want more than anything and you’re saying that it’s ridiculous?” you paused. “Or is it because you think it’s ridiculous for me?

Roger looked down, guilt evident in his sad expression. The truth was that he didn’t want you to leave. But he couldn’t tell you that. It’d make him seem weak. Pathetic. Selfish. You had been there for him all his life from the moment you were both born at the same hospital in the rooms just across from each other. You had spent every birthday together and ate lunch with one another at school when there was no one else. You had comforted and encouraged him when he cried the first day of kindergarten (although he would never admit that he did). You were there for him when his first girlfriend had broken up with him and when he wasn’t happy with the music he was writing. You were always supportive.

It wasn’t one sided either. He was your shoulder to cry on when Tommy pushed you on the playground or when Katelyn called you names during math class. He had always stood up for you and he was there when you felt like the whole world was against you. He always believed in you and pushed you to be your best. But it was different now. You weren’t those two little kids skipping their way to the local grocery store a block away every day for popsicles. You had hopes and dreams and plans for the future.

Roger had been your rock. Your anchor. Your constant. And you had hoped that he would be your future too which is why it pained you so much to hear that he didn’t believe in you. Maybe you really weren’t cut out for acting. Roger had always had your best interests in mind after all. 

“Look, I’m not saying that you can’t do it but...Y/N it’s just so unrealistic. Look at where we live! Not a single person here has amounted to anything more than an extra in some stupid sitcom.” he argued.

“Whatever. I can’t let you get in my head because I honestly think I can do this,” your voice wavered trying to hold back tears. “You know, I always thought that out of everyone you’d believe in me but I guess not. I guess I really am alone.”

You left without another word, slamming the door behind you as you ran down two blocks to your house.

-----

It had been five years since you’d moved to New York to go to a prestigious school for theatre and the performing arts. You changed your name (not officially or legally though), bought new clothes, cut your hair and even dyed it in a desperate attempt to leave your little town and boring past behind. You had been having fun learning the ins and outs of film. In truth, you were still trying to get ahold of your life outside of the town you had grown up in. After all, it was a huge change going from a relatively unknown place to the Big Apple.

At first, you thought about that little town often. Every day in fact. You called your mother once a week to check up on things back at home. You considered asking her about Roger but always shied away from the topic. Knowing that you two had left off on a bad note, your mother never brought him up either. You hadn’t spoke to him since that argument on your last day in town in his backyard.

Thoughts of Roger and what he could be up to filled your mind every time you came back to your cramped dorm room after hours of lecturing on the History of Cinema and Using the Right Lens to Capture the Best Atmosphere and Tone. You loved film with all your heart but it became tiring. 

Perhaps you had the talent and passion, but you certainly didn’t have the energy or determination. You had been in a few indie films, but after all this time you still hadn’t gotten your “big break”.

You were going to school and working two different part-time jobs to support yourself. You were stretching yourself thin and it would only be so long until you’d snap. Every rejection you got put a hole in your self-esteem and you began to wonder if this was really for you. Of course, acting was your passion but you would be lying if you said that the idea of just giving up and going back home to rest didn’t give you relief.

“Ten more auditions.” you promised yourself. If none of those go right, you’ll just go back home and figure it out from there. You were done with this life. It was tiring and only made you feel insecure about yourself. No amount of love or passion could persuade you to pursue this. 

Then again, Roger could have. He would have told you that you couldn’t give up and that it shouldn’t even be an option. But Roger wasn’t in your corner anymore. Roger was off doing god knows what. You were alone.

-----

Two years later, you were packing your things for a flight back home. Back to that small town where everyone was no one. The ten auditions you had promised yourself turned into 30. You got a few callbacks, minor roles for filmmakers that were trying to make it just like you were. But all of those big roles that you had wanted so badly were always “the wrong fit” or it was always a “we decided to go in a different direction” call.

That was exactly what you had decided to do. Go in a different direction. Backwards.

-----

Walking around the streets where you had grown up was an emotional rollercoaster. At each and every turn there was something that triggered a memory inside of you. Most of those memories were made with Roger, you realized. You couldn’t help but wonder where he was and what he was doing these days. It had been almost seven years since you had spoken to him and as you looked at the grocery store that had become your hangout spot as children, you felt a little hole in your heart. You really missed him.

Walking into the store for your signature orange creamsicle (just for old time’s sake), you felt nostalgic as you imagined the seven year old version of yourself and Roger racing each other to the store as the poor owner yelled at you for the millionth time to stop running around and causing a mess.

“Hey Dan, how’s it been?” you chuckled, taking small steps towards the store owner, leaning against the counter.

“Y/N?” he asked excitedly as you nodded. “Wow, almost didn’t recognize you! Man, I swear you were just a little kid when you left!” “Well actually I go by Y/F/N now. Guess I just wanted to leave this place behind but, well… now I’m back. Maybe for good. I don’t know, still figuring it out.” you thought out loud.

He started talking again but you weren’t paying attention. Your eyes focused onto the small television screen in the corner of the room just behind the counter. You couldn’t believe what you were seeing.

“Is that fucking Roger??” you asked, cutting him off mid-sentence.

“Yeah, he’s been with this band called Queen or something for a while now. You didn’t know? What happened I thought you were best friends?”

“Yeah well things didn’t work out. Sorry Dan but I gotta go.” you said already sprinting out the front door.

-----

“Queen???” you shouted out to your mother after practically slamming the door open. “He’s with Queen now?? Why the hell did no one bother to tell me??”

“Baby, you did ask us not to talk about him…” your mother replied calmly, hoping to tone down your anger and shock.

“I know, I know,” you sighed rubbing your forehead. “It’s just… I didn’t think that THAT’S what he’d be doing.” You had listened to Queen many times before but you hadn’t been catching up about them in the news. Their music was all you knew about them.

“Look baby, they’re having a little show in town in two weeks. I know that you and Rog didn’t leave off in the best place but… don’t you think that it’s time to at least talk to him?”

“I’ll think about it.” you said as calmly as you could. 

The truth was that you were most definitely going to that show. Your years at acting school hadn’t been kind on your wallet and being a world famous drummer must come with its perks. What could you lose from a little reconnection with Roger?

-----

You had spent two weeks catching up with old friends around town and before you knew it, Queen was in town.

After years away in New York, you had stopped caring about Roger and thought about him less and less. However, something about being in this town made you miss him and the adventures you had together. You had to admit that you were a little nervous to see him again.

Looking into the mirror, you looked totally different from the girl who left town seven years ago. You almost couldn’t see how that girl and the girl looking back at you now were the same person. 

But that was what you wanted. If you were going to use Roger for his money, you didn’t want to do it as the girl he knew all those years ago. It would break your own heart for him to realize what kind of person you had become.

Five minutes. Oh my god five minutes?? You had to get going otherwise you’d miss the first few songs.

----- 

The venue was small and crowded. You recognized some people from around town but from the amount of people there were, it seemed that some had traveled quite the distance to see Queen.

The lights went dark as the crowd’s cheers grew. The spotlight shone across the empty stage as the band’s guitarist and bassist stepped out. The crowd grew so loud that it was almost deafening. Then, there he was.

Roger Taylor.

Your Roger Taylor. Roger Taylor who cried on the first day of kindergarten (though he would never admit that). Roger Taylor who was too afraid to play on the swings until you convinced him that it would feel like flying. Roger Taylor who came to you for help on his english homework every day because he had fallen asleep in class again.

But was he still that same Roger Taylor? You knew that fame changed people and knowing Roger, he could definitely have grown an ego bigger than the one he already had.

Your mind was swimming with thoughts and memories of your past and you couldn’t help but stare at him. You couldn’t take your eyes off of Roger even as Queen’s front-man stepped out in the most eye-catching costume.

“Hey, we all want a piece of him. You’ll have to get in line.” the girl next to you nudged you after catching you staring at Roger.

-----

The show went well and their music was amazing. There wasn’t a single stiff body within the crowd.

Now you were backstage with a bunch of other girls. You were shocked as to how many young women there were wearing the most revealing clothing that they had in their closets. Of course you knew that he would have groupies but you didn’t know to what extent. 

It was weird to think about. All these girls chasing after Roger when you had always known him as that loser that had fallen off of the slide in the 11th grade (parents around the playground would ask you “aren’t you a little old to be playing on the playground?” but you didn’t care. You were just having fun with your best friend). 

But isn’t that what you were doing? Trying to get close with this rockstar just so that you could maybe afford a place to live?

Your thoughts were interrupted by the screams of the young girls around you as Roger stepped out of his dressing room. Standing off to the side a little, Roger could see you clearly despite the large number of women crowding around his door.

“Y/N?” he asked himself in disbelief. “Hey, can we get that girl through here?” he turned to his bodyguard pointing towards you. Much to the dismay of the girls backstage, you were brought to the front of the crowd and into the drummer’s dressing room.

As the door shut behind you, your heart sped up. What were you thinking? He’d recognize who you were, wouldn’t he? He would definitely catch you in this lie oh my god you need to get out of h-

“Y/N? Hello?” his voice snapped you back to reality. What were you going to do?

“No actually, I’m Y/F/N. Sorry if you were expecting someone else.” you answered hesitantly. He had definitely caught you. There was no way that you were getting away with this.

“Oh sorry… you just… looked like someone I used to know” he said with disappointment clearly in his voice. He looked down with the saddest expression you had ever seen and you almost considered telling the truth. But you couldn’t because well… money.

There were a few moments of silence before you finally spoke. “Well…what now?

“Well honestly,” he sighed. “I’m not really up for sex right now. Wow, don’t think I’ve ever said that…”

“What? Not pretty enough?” you joked.

“No no it’s not that at all it’s just that...I was really hoping to see that girl today.” he spoke sadly.

The room went silent again. You were sure that you would have been caught by now and honestly, you didn’t really have a plan.

“Tell me about her.” you finally spoke.

“God she was...perfect. My very best friend since we were born.” he spoke fondly. “She was so kind and she was always there for me until she left. And then I was alone.”

You felt like you were being invasive because it was you that he was speaking of and he didn’t even know it. Somewhere in the back of your mind though, you were comforted by the fact that he felt exactly the same way as you did being apart from each other. Alone. Lost. Incomplete.

-----

You had been talking to Roger for hours about anything and everything all while holding up this fake persona.

“Oh my god it’s 4am,” you suddenly realized, looking at the clock above roger’s mirror. “I have to get going. Got a busy day tomorrow.”

“Wait,” Roger said holding onto your arm. “Okay this is really rare for me to do and I can’t believe I’m even asking this right now but… can I see you again?”

“Sure,” you spoke as you tried to hold back a smile. “Seven o’clock at the Angel Bar next week. Don’t be late.”

“What? No number?” he asked as you slid out the door.

“No number.” you smiled and made your way back home.

-----

Soon enough, it was next week. You sat on a bar stool as you watched Roger walk through the door.  Usually he was confident, but if you weren’t mistaken, you could see that he was a little nervous.

“So you finally decided to make it huh?” you laughed.

“Hey! I’m only… ten minutes late!” he smiled looking down at his watch.

-----

It had been several hours and several rounds of drinks later until the topic of money came up. Honestly, you were enjoying the time to catch up with your friend even if he didn’t know that it was you. You were starting to regret this entire scheme and considered just telling him the truth. But you couldn’t do that. You were too far in and you REALLY needed that money. The little place that you had been living in expected rent soon and your pockets were completely empty.

“Yeah, money’s been a little tight lately,” you looked down feeling guilty because you shouldn’t be doing this. Sure you left off on a bad note but he was still your friend.

“How short are you?” he asked right away.

“What?” you asked confused as to why he was so eager to know.

“How much money do you need?” he asked again.

“No you can’t do that.” you had to at least ACT like you weren’t just using him for his money. If you went straight to telling him how much you wanted, he would be suspicious.

“Y/F/N, it’s fine. Just tell me how much you owe and I won’t judge you.” he asked again.

“$400…” you sighed.

“Darling that’s nothing, I’ll cover it.” he answered quickly.

“Really? That’s too much for me to ask of you.” you lied.

“How about this?” he bargained. “I’ll pay your rent if you go on another date with me.” 

“Deal.” you smiled.

-----

With the money problem being out of the way, you had actually been able to enjoy your dates with Roger.

You had gone on two more dates after the one at the bar and now, you were on your fourth. You had avoided anything physical. No matter how hard you tried, you couldn’t help but fall in love. You loved him.

You were in love with Roger Taylor.

You walked through the park, holding Roger’s hand as you realized this. But you couldn’t say anything. You were Y/F/N not Y/N. You weren’t the girl he knew growing up who would clean up his scraped knee and read to him on the tire swing in your backyard because you had learned how to read far before he did. Now you were the girl that he had met backstage in a crowd of tens of other girls and the girl that was using him for his wealth.

You were so lost in thought that you hadn’t noticed that you and Roger had stopped walking and were now standing at the edge of the lake. You felt his eyes on you as you stared out into the shallow lake.

Was that what you were being? Shallow? No, you didn’t love Roger for his money, you loved him for him. Right?

You turned and looked into his blue eyes and he looked back. Were they always that blue? Your mind filled with panic when you realized that you had been standing closer to him than you thought. The tension was palpable as your foreheads rested against each other.

“Y/F/N,” Roger whispered so quietly that you could barely hear it. “I love you.”

Your heart started to pound in your ears. Did he really just say that? THE Roger Taylor said that? You were overwhelmed with happiness until you realized.

He said Y/F/N, I love you. Not Y/N, I love you. 

You couldn’t keep this up anymore. You couldn’t keep lying to him and let him keep falling in love when this wasn’t really you.

“Roger, wait.” you stopped him just as your lips were about to meet. “I’m not-”

“I know.” he interrupted. “I meant what I said, Y/N. I love you no matter what name you have or what colour your hair is. I love you.

Then it finally happened. Your lips met in a passionate and long awaited kiss. You feared that it would be awkward but it just felt right. It was as if your lips and mouths were made to fit with each other perfectly. The world around you seemed to dull out and the lake went quiet. In this moment, it was just you and Roger. Your best friend since birth. Through childhood. Perhaps the love of your life.

“I love you, Roger.” you said, only breaking apart for some air.

“I’m sorry for how we left things off.” he sighed, your noses still touching and your foreheads pressed together. “I love you and I should never have doubted you.”

“I’m sorry for how I started this.” you laughed. “I shouldn’t have tried using you for your money.”

You both laughed and it felt like when you were children. You two had always had a bad habit of downplaying situations that were quite serious.

“Why did you do that anyways?” he questioned innocently.

“Acting didn’t go so well and now…I’m completely broke,” you admitted. “Why didn’t you tell me that you knew it was me?”

“Dunno actually...guess I just trusted that you knew what you were doing.” he chuckled.

“Well, you were wrong. I had no idea what I was doing.” you laughed.

Soon the two of you burst out into a fit of laughter until your stomachs hurt. Collapsing on the grass together as you caught your breath, you looked into Roger’s eyes again. They reminded you of your childhood and your past but also of your present and where you were right now in this exact moment.

“Roger...you were right. About acting. It was really just a ridiculous dream and I have no idea what I’m gonna do now.” you said feeling comfortable with Roger again. Like you could talk about anything and he would be there. Just like how it was as kids.

“No, you can’t say that,” he answered suddenly sitting up. “Y/N, I always believed in you I just didn’t want you to leave me. You can’t give up Y/N.”

“Rog, I already tried for seven years. I just don’t think I’m cut out for it.” you said casually.

“No Y/N it’s your dream. C’mon, money isn’t an issue anymore. You have to keep trying.”

Deep down in your heart, you knew that he was right. You didn’t have a single clue as to what you would do if acting didn’t work out for you. It truly was your passion and you loved it with all your soul. But then you thought back to all those rejections. All the times when your agent had called you saying that it didn’t work out. It had broken your spirit and made you doubt yourself.

“Roger I can’t! I already tried for seven years and-” you argued before Roger cut you off.

“And you’ll try for seven more years if that’s what it’ll take.” he looked into your eyes with hope. Those blue eyes, full of hope. “Let’s go to LA.”

“What?” you said breaking out of your trance. There was no way that he just said that.

“Yeah, pack tonight and we’ll leave for LA tomorrow. I want you to get started as soon as possible because I know that you can do this.” he smiled.

You were in shock but still found yourself nodding before you even knew what was going on.

The next day, you were on a flight to LA with Roger.

-----

Three Years Later…

You made it. Driving back home from your agent’s office, you were beaming. This would be your third big Hollywood role. You were making quite the name for yourself.

After flying to LA, you had started going out for auditions straight away. You constantly got rejected just like you had before. The difference this time was that Roger was here with you. Despite all the times you had gotten turned down, Roger was in your corner. He had encouraged you every day to keep going and told you that you “had the talent” so often that you knew he was going to say it before he even opened his mouth.

You were proud of yourself. You hadn’t gotten here because of Roger’s fame or money. No one knew of your connection until last year when the two of you had announced that you were together. All of your roles were earned by your own talent and determination (with words of encouragement from Roger of course).

Money wasn’t a problem anymore. You didn’t need to rely on Roger after those first two big roles had brought in enough money to support the both of you for ages. 

You were forever grateful that Roger had convinced you to pursue your passions and believe in yourself.

Walking into the small and modest flat that you and Roger had bought together, you smiled upon seeing him struggling to make dinner.

“This is ridiculous!” he cried out in frustration. “Why would you add that much water?”

“Baby just follow the recipe,” you laughed. “You really can’t do a whole lot wrong with pasta.”

“Look who’s talking!” he replied. “Wasn’t it you that nearly burned down my house in the fifth grade trying to make soup?”

“That was totally you!” you retorted as he wrapped his arms around your waist.

“Well then, I think that maybe you should help me before I burn this pasta.” he said leaning in for a kiss.

“I didn’t ask for you to cook Rog,” you chuckled. “But I’ll help you because clearly, you need it.”

Turning to tend to the fire that was much too large for just some pasta, you smiled. You were happy and so was Roger. You were finally successful and you were loved and in love.

This was exactly where you wanted to be. It was where you were meant to be.

——————————————————————————————

A/N: Just like before, any constructive criticism or notes are appreciated! I don’t have a permanent taglist yet but I’m working on it! Thank u guys so much for reading! <3

[peterstanslizzie]

Re-watching Lizzie Mcguire: Episode 1.23 (Last Year’s Model)

“You like me, you really like me”. She didn’t say this but I feel this is the perfect description for this picture lol

- The Mcguire family’s got mail! Besides the generic ones like bills, Matt receives a letter that contains a $50 gift certificate from his grandma, Gammy Mcguire for his birthday. 

- But she seemed to forget when Matt’s birthday is because she had already gifted him his present 7 months ago. I still would like to see Gammy actually appear on-screen and interact with her family. But we are never going to get that I’m afraid. 

- As for Lizzie, she asks her mom if she could participate in a fashion show organised by ‘Teen Attitude’ magazine. If she’s chosen by them, she will receive $500 worth of merchandise. I would definitely want to do that fashion show just for the perks. Her mom seems to be on board as long as she does her homework and stops picking on Matt.

Lizzie says sure but we all know that she’s not going to do one of the two promises lol

Lizzie The Runway Model

Remember when fashion shows back then were all fun and joyful and the models always used to spin around? Nowadays, most models just look so miserable.

- Gordo seems to be on-board with the whole modeling thing for Lizzie, mostly because of the $500. Isn’t he the type of person who views modeling as superficial? I also wonder why Miranda wasn’t interested in trying out for the fashion show?

- Mr. Dig, their substitute teacher suddenly interrupts their conversation and went off on a tangent by talking about the time he gave advice to a model by the name of Colette Romana, whose face was broken when an elephant sat on her face in Nairobi.....okayyy

Mr. Dig is really odd but I do appreciate his honesty with the kids when it comes to life lessons 

- Next, we move on to the ‘Styling’ and Sassy’ fashion show! Lizzie’s parents, her friends and even Kate Sanders plus Ethan Craft are in the audience. Can I just say that Lizzie totally rocked the runway!? She really fits the typical girl-next-door look the fashion show was trying to showcase and not to mention, I love the fact that an S Club 7 song (Everybody Wants Ya) is playing in the background too!

Work that twirl girlfriend!

- Kate is clearly jealous that she couldn’t do the fashion show because she had to go to a funeral. Wow Kate, way to hit a new low this time. But I must say; Kate would’ve have been great for this because she certainly has the height for the runway. 

Everybody Is Acting Weird Around Lizzie

- After the fashion show, Lizzie tells her friends that she was asked to do another fashion show due to her amazing performance. Gordo then makes a joke with her, reminding her to not forget about them when she becomes famous and all of a sudden, Lizzie forgets his name when addressing him...umm what? Hope she wasn’t kidding when she did that.

- After that, we see this girl who sat with Kate and Ethan in the fashion show approach Lizzie and invites her to her dad’s clubhouse to hang out in the hot tub and watch the new Backstreet Boys DVD. This show is definitely old lmao!

Okay, this girl’s name is Jessica. I had to fast forward to figure that out.

- Lizzie hesitates to say yes because she already made plans with Gordo and Miranda to watch a movie but turns out, both her friends are very eager to join Lizzie at the country club and hang out with the popular kids. Even Gordo!

- We are then taken to the clubhouse and our trio is seen chilling in the hot tub. Gordo is mostly enjoying the free food being served. I can definitely relate to him. What’s surprising me right now is how Kate’s acting all cool and friendly in front of Lizzie.

What a sudden change in attitude! She’s now acting as if Lizzie is a legit celebrity, which she isn’t. I don’t get it.

- It’s not just with Kate; Miranda is also acting different around Lizzie. She offers to bring a drink over to Lizzie and basically recites the entire drinks menu. She’s acting like Lizzie’s personal assistant. But wow, Miranda actually seems to have a great memory when it comes to listing things out. 

- Back at the hot tub, Gordo is talking to Jessica and tells her he has videos of Lizzie that he has shot for his short films/documentaries. He offers to come over to her house to show her some of them to which she says yes, as long as he brings Lizzie along. 

Why is Gordo the only one wearing shades? It’s either he has sensitive eyes or he just wants to look cool, which isn’t something Gordo would do

- And just like that, Lizzie is going to watch videos at Jessica’s on Sunday night without agreeing to it. On top of that, she’s apparently going dancing at the ‘Shango Tango’ on Saturday night with them as well. Basically, they want to use Lizzie’s status as a model to grant them access to these places. She did one fashion show and they’re acting like she’s Gigi Hadid or whatever lol

Lizzie’s Famous Now

- At school, everyone is just staring at Lizzie everywhere she goes. Even Kate goes up to her and compliments her outfit and accessories. 

“My earrings match my eyes?”. This line is definitely memorable to me. 

- Plus, it seems like the tables have turned because Lizzie and Ethan have literally switched characters. When Lizzie is talking to him about an English test they just took, he’s acting like the old Lizzie when she’s around him; all awkward and fidgety. 

- Lizzie notices all of this and tells her friends how everyone is acting so different around her. Miranda and Gordo doesn’t view this as a negative; They like the fact that people are noticing them now and inviting them to all sorts of special events/parties. 

- After running away from the other students who were all just staring at her still, Lizzie hides in a room where Mr. Dig is and he then takes a picture of Lizzie to have it signed so he can sell it to his nephew...and niece. Well, putting that aside, Lizzie rants to her teacher how everyone and even her best friends are treating her differently nowadays since the fashion show. 

- Mr. Dig suggests to Lizzie that she should treat them like how a celeb diva would and treat them like dirt. This is to remind them that they are her friends and not her posse. 

Lizzie Brings Out Her Inner Diva

- Gordo and Miranda arrive at Lizzie’s house and Lizzie commences “Operating Superstar Brat” by acting like a total diva towards her friends. She’s even dressed up like one from head to toe. 

Even worse, Gordo and Miranda follow her orders and starts to bark like dogs, albeit their execution was a little sloppy lol.

- Soon after, Lizzie drops her act and tells her friends that they have changed. They clearly realise this and promise to Lizzie that things will go back to normal and they won’t act like her posse anymore. But the problem is, everyone else is still treating her differently. And this is the solution she came up with:

To act like a complete and utter fool on the runway. 

- I have to give props to Lizzie for having the courage to dress up like this and act this way in front of an audience. But if I were her, I wouldn’t want to give up a modeling contract with a popular magazine just because people are acting differently around me. I mean, I would at least give it more time to see if the situation would improve. Most of all, I wouldn’t want to embarrass myself publicly like how Lizzie did here. 

- Also, she didn’t have to include this dumb confrontation between her and Miranda. It just wasn’t necessary.

Y’all didn’t need to fight. The fashion show was already ruined when Lizzie started scratching her butt lol

B-Plot: Matt Goes Shopping

- Sam and Jo brings Matt and Lanny to the hardware/electronics store to shop for things he can get with the $50 gift certificate. Lanny gravitates towards the massage chair but it’s way too expensive. We then get a montage of the boys and Matt’s parents trying out different products at the store to the song, ‘Shopping’ by the Pet Shop Boys. It’s a pretty catchy song if you ask me. 

My favorite part of the montage is when they reference back to the Austin Powers’ villains, Dr. Evil and Mini-Me 

- Matt spots a hammock priced at $75 and he thinks it’s perfect for him. Even though it costs $25 more, Lanny is able to cover the rest because he’s earning money from his website. My question is, what kind of content is in Lanny’s website anyways?

- Back in the Mcguires’ backyard, Matt and Lanny are busy assembling the hammock they just bought but unfortunately for them, they got less than stellar results:

Exhibit A

- They are back at the store again and they want to return the hammock and get a refund. However, the store clerk, who is being a total prick tells them that they can’t get a refund on sale items. Okay fine but he needs to watch his tone when talking to customers. And he even called Sam an ‘old timer’. The disrespect! Sheeesh!

And the award for worst customer service goes to...

- Sam leaves behind Matt and Lanny to talk to the manager and afterwards, we see the two boys doing the absolute right thing by playing a prank on the useless employee who is walking on the treadmill. They proceed to tape his hands onto both handles and increase the speed on the treadmill. I’m not the one to agree with pranking others but this guy really deserved it.

Overall Thoughts

- This is yet again, a very entertaining episode. I love how the story was very Lizzie-centric this time and it did not disappoint. I mean, it was a little outrageous how EVERYONE was acting and treating Lizzie like a total A-lister after appearing in one fashion show. It’s like they assumed that everybody reads ‘Teen Attitude’ magazine.

- It kinda got me to think that maybe after the events of The Lizzie Mcguire Movie, I would assume that everyone at school would treat her similarly because she did perform a hit song in front of millions of people in Italy, which I’m sure it caught the attention of US mainstream media.

- Besides that, the soundtrack of this episode was incredible! I had to look up the songs on YouTube because they were so catchy. Lastly, Matt’s storyline was pretty insignificant in this episode and it didn’t really provide me with anything besides some physical comedy.

[ashleyjouharphotowords]

In a revealing interview for the Image Source Picture Library, I talked to Miles Aldridge about his early influences, 90’s fashion photography and how at the moment of news-stand success he headed off in a radically different creative direction.

Miles Aldridge shoots sexy, glamorous women in opulent settings. But all is not what it seems in his pictures. Scratch the surface and a common thread runs through the imagery – the strange ominous unease of the dreamworld. Film-maker David Lynch wrote, “Miles sees a colour coordinated, graphically pure, hard-edged reality”. Artist Glenn O’Brien says Aldridge, “uses impeccable instinct in crafting something like ‘stills’ from the fractured narratives that we normally experience nocturnally and unconsciously.”

Aldridge talked to me about his influences and traced the rich visual journey he took from being a graphic design and illustration student, through music promos, to being a photographer who has shaped and stretched the idea of the fashion photograph.

Ashley Jouhar: What was your background to taking the kinds of photographs you take now and what was it that kick started your career in photography?

Miles Aldridge: Well, my father [Alan Aldridge] was a famous illustrator and art director so I grew up around quite surreal, psychedelic and sometimes shocking imagery – and it seemed clear to me I would go into the arts and follow my father. So I went to art school to study illustration, which was incredibly liberating – because I had been at Grammar School and none of my fellow students were interested in art. Being at Central St Martin’s around 1983 – surrounded by a lot of like-minded and talented people – the teachers, the studies and the classes were very good and I immersed myself in everything for the first year and then specialised in Graphic Design with an illustration bias.

Ashley Jouhar: So at that point you were exposing yourself to all the disciplines – life drawing, filmmaking, illustration, graphic design – the whole lot?

Miles Aldridge: I was also getting exposed to cinema, taking girlfriends on dates to see art movies, not blockbusters. I was seeing David Lynch films and it broadened my horizons immensely.

I did become an illustrator when I graduated from art school but I found it quite boring and I wasn’t anything like my father who was a sort of psychedelic whizz kid right in the middle of swinging London, working with everyone from David Bailey to The Stones and The Beatles. So he was really tapping into the zeitgeist. But I didn’t find the work very challenging and I was still very young so I started making enquiries about pop videos. It seemed to me that the film directors I liked were artists, packaging their thoughts and point of view of the world into hour and a half statements.

Ashley Jouhar: A little like you are now doing with your current imagery, except in a photograph?

Miles Aldridge: Yeah, but at that time I had no film training, apart from a couple of days at art so it was all quite new to me. But I bought a Super 8 camera and started shooting films. Then I bumped into Derek Jarman in Soho, who was often drinking tea in the same café I used to hang out in called Maison Bertaux. He was interested in me because I was a good-looking young man and I was interested in him because he was a famous film maker and so we had a few conversations. He was very enthusiastic and encouraging and through this naïve enthusiasm I started to make films. Another person who came into my life then was Sophie Muller, a well known video director who pretty well invented the form, shooting videos for The Eurythmics and many others.

Ashley Jouhar: MTV was exploding at this time so it was perfect timing for you, in the right place at the right time?

Miles Aldridge: Yeah, yeah, exactly and actually because of people like Derek Jarman and other like-minded artists were doing Super 8 presentations to music because of its relatively low cost it was very much the film medium for the 80s. You don’t need masses of finance to make a film on Super 8 – the idea is translated quickly to images. So I started making pop videos for a while.

Ashley Jouhar: Were you coming up with the concepts for these videos – were they very much ideas-driven shoots?

Miles Aldridge: Yes, very much so and I was good at coming up with the ideas but I wasn’t very good with the music! I would come up with an idea that might be loosely based on something from the universe of Hitchcock, Lynch or Godard and I was aware of cinematic tricks and conceits and would play with those. Like for instance, The Shining – I would do a pop video based on a long corridor with different weird things happening in different rooms but I didn’t really know how to put it all together with the edit. During this time I suppose I would have been known as a middling pop video director and therefore lived in a council flat, didn’t have any overheads as such so was very happy doing the odd pop video and hanging out with my girlfriend, who it transpired wanted to be a model. That’s when I took these photographs of her because she looked very much like the kind of girl of the moment – that sort of grungy, heroin chic sort of look of the time.

Ashley Jouhar: I remember it well – the bed-sits and anti-fashion poses.

Miles Aldridge: Yes, and the pictures of her were very well received at Vogue and they asked who had taken them and it was explained that it was this girl’s boyfriend. I was then called in to Vogue to meet them and I had this amazing realisation that instead of all this hard work involved in making videos – starting at five in the morning and ending at five in the morning, horrible food and no money to do anything, I could possibly become a fashion photographer.

Ashley Jouhar: So those original pictures, did you imbue them with something that we would recognise now in your work?

Miles Aldridge: No, I shot them all in black and white on Hampstead Heath on a Nikon and the film was dropped into Snappy Snaps… and picked up two hours later and pasted into her portfolio! They were really, to all intents and purposes, a boyfriend photographing his girlfriend. I mean she wasn’t styled and there was no hair and make up and she wasn’t trying to sell any fashion. Because that was what was happening with London photography then, when fashion photography almost slipped into Reportage.

Ashley Jouhar: Yes, it was very pared down compared to what had gone before.

Miles Aldridge: Yes, very much so and the heroes of that period were people like Robert Frank and Bruce Davidson and also Richard Avedon’s book ‘In the American West’ was kind of like a bible for that kind of styling.

There was this idea of real people rather than glamorous people being pushed to the forefront and being shown as something heroic and wonderful. So I moved from illustration to video to photography in the space of about six years, I think. I really enjoyed the photography and the early work was really about being locked in studios with very beautiful creatures and trying to think how to photograph them. I didn’t come with any technical knowledge – all I had was an eye that still serves me very well today and those pictures were almost a repetition of the boyfriend/girlfriend pictures earlier where in my imagination, these models who were now wearing fashion clothes and hair and make up were, for that six or seven hours in my studio, my girlfriend. Interestingly, when the hair and make-up and styling was being done and I wasn’t paying any attention at all, I left that up to them. In a way, I liked to rendezvous with the model on the white background and see her there for the first time with my camera.

Ashley Jouhar: So at this point your shoots were very spontaneous with what was happening, there were no storyboards planned out or themes?

Miles Aldridge: Yes, it was very spontaneous, it was about having a good time, listening to loud music and being swept up in the energy of a pre-9/11 fashion shoot and I mention 9/11 because after that, the whole world and especially fashion became much more gloomy and serious. Up until that point it was a big party. There was so much energy and money sloshing around and I enjoyed the decadence of it.

Ashley Jouhar: When did you start shooting in a more ‘David Lynch-ian’ way with these very considered, choreographed images and sets?

Miles Aldridge: Well, literally all I was shooting was white background pictures for magazines like W and British Vogue. Those pictures were about energy and shapes and in a way my talent was in trying to find graphic shapes on the flat two-dimensional page. I was successful with that kind of work straight away and sort of fell into it but at a certain point I looked at all this work and I remember I was at a magazine store in New York and saw a cover for W magazine, a cover for British Vogue and a cover for a magazine called Vibe – three white background covers, all by me. One could feel really good about oneself with that but for some reason, seeing them all there together I kind of loathed it and wondered where I’d got lost. Because back when I was an art student and even doing pop videos I was much more interested in darker and stranger things and the books I grew up with were books on Hieronymus Bosch and Breugel. The complete opposite of what I was producing, which I thought was trash. I felt really uncomfortable about that, even though my pockets were full of dollars.

Ashley Jouhar: So this was the turning point?

Miles Aldridge: I realised that when you get into a photo studio as a photographer, even if you said nothing and were dumb, the picture would still get taken because there is the momentum the stylist, the hair and make up artist and the model bring to the shoot that creates the energy for these pictures to occur. Instead of giving myself up to the madness and the freedom of the shoot, I wanted to put the brakes on it – to divert that energy and create a picture you really want to do in advance.

In part 2 Miles tells us how he creates the ‘fantastic’ images that have become his signature pieces…

[donnerpartyofone]

21 Questions

Tagged by @getoutofmyhouse who had oddly similar answers to mine

Nickname: only the one I use here, that I gave myself--Claire Donner, which has to do with my famous love of cannibalism. Claire is my real first name, though.

Zodiac: I am so very cuspy. I was born at about a quarter to midnight on April 20, so I tend to relate to, and feel insulted by, the suppositions about Aries and Taurus equally. I’m one of those jerks who will tell you astrology is a bunch of hoo ha...and then drone on with my Many Esoteric Ideas about it, so I’ll just stop myself right here.

Height: 5’ nuthin is what I prefer to say...because saying I’m 5 and 3/4′ sounds a little like saying I’m 10 and a half years old.

Amount of sleep: It’s all fucked up. Until I got into my 30s I could, and would prefer to, sleep endlessly. Now I go to bed around 10 (depression), get up around 5 or 6 (being old), and for extra fun, I’ve developed this insomnia that often keeps me up from about 2am-5am. I try make the most of it by getting up, getting high, watching a movie or two, writing...basically just having a secret private day by myself. I’d really rather go back to just sleeping constantly though.

Last movie I saw: I saw GRETA in theaters tonight, which was ok. I guess I thought any Neil Jordan film would be headier than this, but watching Isabel Huppert just running around acting like an absolute maniac is a rare treat! My last video experience was RAW, which I put on to bother my husband right when we got home from the theater. (I think he liked it more than I originally did, to my surprise)

Last thing I googled: The correct spelling of Sylvia Likens’ last name. I’m obsessed with this type of crime where a group of people (usually a family and/or some of their friends and neighbors) fall into some kind of shared hysteria where they protractedly torture to death an acquaintance for no particular reason. Some times there’s an element of mystery as to why the victim didn’t leave while they were still able to, which suggests to me that the murdered person was just as much a victim of the groupthink as the perpetrators. Other example victims include Suzanne Capper, Vera Jo Reigle, and I think to some degree Sophie Lionnet, James Bulger, and Junko Furuta. (Also a crime they briefly discuss in the book Lords of Chaos, where several people murder a friend in their trailer, but I can’t remember it specifically enough to look up the names--the other last thing i tried to google) I keep thinking there should be a psychiatric and/or legal term for this kind of crime, but I’ve never heard one, so let me know if you got one!

Favorite musician: I have trouble with questions that involve ranking anything, so I’ll just say that right now I’m listening to a lot of old White Zombie. I didn’t know anything about their origins as an East Village noise band, and I’m fascinated by the stories about how apocalyptically miserable it was to be in that group. I’m increasingly obsessed with people who work their asses off doing something they barely even enjoy, for what must be borderline spiritual reasons.

Song stuck in my head: Nothing right this second, for which I am very grateful. There’s something awful in my brain that causes me to wake up with some maddening, babyish tune stuck in my head more often than not. It is most frequently the Ten Little Indians nursery rhyme. This is literally killing me.

Other blogs: @anhed-nia, which started as a dumping ground for long posts about mental illness, and turned into almost only movie writing. at some point there was just so much movie shit that i started to feel awkward about posting anything personal there again. i also got @getoffyrass which is a group blog, and a repository for images that make great drawing references. everyone is encouraged to post their drawings, too, although it is seldom used. i still like having it around, for when i have time to draw. my “real” drawing blog is @neveratendermoment but i don’t draw often enough anymore...

Do I get asks: i used to get tons! i really enjoy them, even the trolls to some degree. i must have seemed like more of a regular tumblr geek girl back in the day. also tumblr has just changed a lot since then. my blog was definitely a casualty of Best Stuff First, i think my follower count stopped dead forever right when that happened, and now that practically every single fucking thing on this entire site is either fandom shit or *discourse*, i really have nothing to offer tumblr anymore, anyway.

Blogs following: 1,057. 

Lucky numbers: 2! Also 5.

What I’m wearing: black wool long john pants from Chrome, and a white v neck teeshirt with the words BLACK MAYONNAISE on it in black Rocky Horror font. i live near the notoriously toxic Gowanus Canal, and “black mayonnaise” is the actual term used to describe what’s on the bottom of it, by the scientists who are trying to figure out what to do with it.

Dream trip: i am really excited by travel, it’s hard to pick. i’m hopefully making a dream trip soon though: my father’s mysterious finno-swedish family is from the åland islands, and my husband and i will be planning part of our honeymoon there, whenever that happens.

Dream Job: i think about this a lot, because the older i get, the more i object to the entire concept of having to work to live. i’m into the whole universal basic income thing. i’m at this point where i can barely stand to think about capitalism in any way--like i think about how the need for money is so mortally serious that there’s a lot of physical stuff in the world that only exists because someone was scared of starving, tons of useless products and packaging and factory byproducts and all kinds of fucking straight up garbage that was only invented due to the lethality of poorness. i would rather be left totally alone forever if possible. however, if i HAD to do something and i COULD do anything, it would probably be film criticism. this fantasy takes place in a world where people care so much about what i have to say that i can make a career, not only out of movie writing, but out of only writing about the specific movies i want to write about, referring to nothing other than my personal reactions.

Favorite food: i wish the answer weren’t just “cheese”, but it probably is. also mushrooms. anything cinnamon. i’m a pretty adventurous eater though. the most important thing for me is a variety of flavors and textures.

Languages: english. i took several years of italian in junior high-high school, and did nothing with it. i taught myself to read french pretty fluently, but i would fold right up if someone tried to speak to me. i learned a bunch of swedish on duolingo, shoulda kept it up. i’ll get back to it! i really regret never learning spanish though, so i’m easily torn on what to do with my time.

Play any instruments: clarinet in junior high/high school, also alto sax which i did not enjoy at all, a little guitar. i bought a used electric bass last year that i have really been enjoying, but i feel a lot of guilt around not playing enough. so much of it is just strength training. that’s probably what i like about it, though. also i got a lot of electronic music software and midi controllers and stuff...and then i realized that it could take me months to sort through the thousands of samples i have to program this stuff, and i only got so far into it before i started to get discouraged. i need to get back to it, it’s ridiculous to let that stuff lie around. this is a rare example of me wishing i knew someone local to play with, who could speed me along on how everything works.

Favorite songs: another one of these impossible questions! anybody who is even reading this can probably guess the answers from the handful of music posts i reblog over and over and over. the other night i got all hyperactive and forced my husband to drop everything and listen to “buffalo stance” by nene cherry, which i never ever get sick of. real top contenders for favorite song might be “Stand By the Jamms” by the klf, and this recording, which has gotten me through many difficult hours:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8k1HsF3EvY

https://www.forcedexposure.com/Catalog/sunray-sonic-boom-music-for-the-dreamachine-cd/STRAWB.003CD.html

Random fact: i’m sure i’m missing out on something really funny and cool, but for now it’s just the well-known fact that i read palms.

Describe yourself as aesthetic thing: man, how do i answer this without being totally pretentious? maybe nobody can! i’m coming up with something really hard to describe but it will be worth it. the other day i watched this insane, completely unnecessary movie about lorca and salvador dali (played by robert pattinson) as gay lovers. there’s a scene in it where lorca does that “pick a hand” thing to dali, and dali picks an empty hand. of course, they’re both poor students who couldn’t be buying any gifts, so they do this obnoxious pantomime where dali pretends lorca actually gave him something--but then it turns out that lorca really DOES have something. he opens his other hand and gives dali...SOMETHING. i don’t know what! they make such a big deal out of it, but what the hell? you see it for a second in this closeup, but it’s shot from like, behind and slightly underneath, and it is just unrecognizable. it’s sort of an orange blob? it’s probably meant to be a sculpture. but, i love the idea of doing the “pick a hand” thing to somebody, and the other person is just like...hey wait a minute, what the fuck even IS this?? 

it reminded me of one of the most amazing things anyone ever did at my school, bard college. this genius art student who I WISH I COULD NAME TO CREDIT HER did her senior project as this like...made up product. i saw them at the senior show, hanging off a spinner rack, like you’d see next to the register in the drug store. they were called Toilet Buddies. they were these plastic, brightly colored objects that looked like toys, but they didn’t have a familiar earthly shape, and because of the title, it was IMPOSSIBLE to imagine what to do with them. so, she gets the lipstick cam from the film department, and shoots this video of herself sneaking some Toilet Buddies into Walmart. then she takes them to the register and BUYS THEM--the baffled cashier looks for them for a while, and eventually just rings them up as a general grocery or something. then in part 2, the artist TAKES THEM BACK TO THE STORE WITH THE RECEIPT AND GETS A REFUND.

so anyway, i see myself as like a fake product--something that looks just familiar enough to exit, and that appears to have a designated purpose, but it’s just kind of cheap and foreign and it becomes nightmarish to try to imagine what to do with it. 

I don’t know if anyone i know will want to do this, but i tag @negativepleasure @moviesludge @former-contender @dimestoreman @thefuzzydave @darkarfs @theoddsideofme @blueruins ...um, i don’t really know who would enjoy this. the ultimate would be @garbagenacht

[3monthsineurope]

June 1, 2019

Ingvar and I woke up at 4 am Saturday. Wowowowo that’s early! Ingvar and I had spent the week moving his stuff out of his old place, and some of it into mine. He’s spending a few weeks with me in my room, before he leaves for Hawaii for the summer. It’s really nice that he was taking me to the airport! I had packed almost all of my things the night before (and rather well, I might add! I only had four outfits for the weekend packed!), so we left my place around 4:20. We stopped and got gas, and then wanted Starbucks, but all of them were closed in Bellingham!

We hit the road to Everett. I was so excited to try out the new airport! There was no traffic that early, and we ended up stopping at Starbucks in Burlington. Ingvar got a $75 gift card when he left Bank of America (Wednesday was his last day!), so it was his treat. We got to Everett around 5:45, an hour and fifteen minutes before my flight. You can’t do that when you fly out of SeaTac! I said “see you tomorrow” to Ingvar (it was such a short trip but I was happy about it), then checked out the airport.

Security took about five minutes and there are only two gates. The airport felt very much like a lounge! It had fireplaces and a bar and nice couches. I did my make up, then got assigned my seat, 19a. It was a smaller plane, only two seats per row, and only about twenty rows. I boarded the plane, and we took off around seven. I tried to sleep the whole flight, since I slept only about four hours the night before, but the plane was really chilly! I probably got an hour of sleep, which is better than nothing, I suppose.

I landed at LAX around 9:30. I grabbed Starbucks for Haley and I, then she picked me up. It was a good to see her, but the cruise was only about two weeks prior, so it hadn’t been long. We had a busy day planned! We called and talked to Mom and Dad on our way to Haley’s place, where we changed and got ready to go to Universal Studios! I was seriously amped to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Dad paid for our tickets, since we didn’t go to Universal Studios Orlando, which was really nice! Thanks Dad! We took a Lyft to the theme park, since Haley lives so close, and then we wouldn’t need to deal with parking.

Universal Studios has an area around the park with restaurants and stores, called the City Walk. It’s kind of like Downtown Disney in Anaheim and Disney Springs in Orlando. We saw butterfly mural that was done by the same artist the Taylor Swift commissioned for her butterfly mural in Nashville, so that was a cool surprise. The weather was pretty chilly for LA—65! We were wearing sweatshirts, haha. Our main goal was to see Harry Potter World! We went right there and I was amazed! It really felt like I was in the movies! Haley and I got in line for the 4D ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. I was a littler nervous because I don’t love those rides, but I wanted to try! The line was almost an hour and a half! The ride was pretty scary! Haley and I thought it would be like Soarin’ Over California at California Adventure, but it was must more interactive! I had to close my eyes for some of it, and I’ve basically decided that I don’t want to do 4D rides anymore, haha.

We had a bathroom break, then tried butterbeer! I had the slushee version and Haley had the cream soda version. It was actually so tasty! It was butterscotchy and super rich. We were hungry, so we shared a hot dog and chips, then went for the next ride, the Flight of the Hippogriff. It was a small roller coaster but it was actually really fun, and a much shorter wait! We checked out Olivander’s wand shop, and some other shops. I ended up getting a Griffandor shirt and a Hufflepuff keychain (I’m a Hufflepuff, so I was in disguise in the shirt, hahah). Haley and I took photos in front of Hogwarts, then wandered around the rest of the park. There were Simpson’s, Minions, and other areas. The Jurassic Park ride was closed, otherwise we would have done that! Haley got a hat and some candy, and we took photos with Shrek! That was so funny, haha. We walked around the whole park, then decided to go home to take a quick break and change for the reason I was in LA—Wango Tango, a music festival!

We took a Lyft home and saw Andy for a bit. He had bought a ticket with us, but couldn’t get his shift covered, which was a real bummer, since we saw Taylor Swift in concert at the Rose Bowl, last year, the three of us. I laid down for a half hour, then Haley and I changed and waited for her friend, Alexandra. Andy gave her his ticket, isn’t that nice? The three of us took a Lyft to Carson, where the concert was, at Digital Health Sports Park, formally StubHub Center.

The ride took about 45 minutes. The line for Wango Tango was insane! It took us about half an hour to get in, even though the doors had opened an hour earlier, at 5:30. I had wanted to arrive early, to see some of my swiftie friends, specifically the ones I went to Pittsburgh with, last August. It was almost seven when we got in, so we decided to get some logistics out of the way before getting to our seats. We got our wristbands to access our floor seats and took photos with the Wango Tango sign. We went to the bathroom and got drinks and food. Haley and I shared a mini cheese pizza and it was actually so good! We made it down to our seats and they were pretty good, I was so happy! We had the isle of row 9, in the second section back from the stage! I had better seats for the reputation tour, but they were still really close! Haley and Alexandra has never had such good seats, so that was really cool!

The concert was amazing! 5 Seconds of Summer was first, and I knew a few of their songs. Next up was a kpop (Korean pop) band, called Tomorrow X Together. They were really good dancers! I went up to the food area and met two girls from Twitter, Lee and Jordan, and that was really fun! Fletcher went next, with her song, Undrunk. It was so fun to be dancing and having fun with everyone! Alexandra is trying to make it in the music industry, so she was really fun to be around at, at a concert. Next up was Ava Max, who has a really popular song, Sweet But Psycho. My friends Matti and Bianca came and found me, and it was good to see them!

Ally Brooke came on next. I didn’t know any of her music, but she is a former member of Fifth Harmony. It definitely seemed like she was lip syncing, which was a bummer. She brought out Tyga, a rapper, for a song, and then it was onto the next, Halsey. Halsey has a ton of radio hits, and she put a really good show! Near the end of her set, we ran upstairs and went to the bathroom before the final acts, got a churro and some carne assada fries to share, and Haley and I both got Wango Tango long sleeves. It was a successful trip!

The next act was Zedd. Zedd is a DJ, and really famous. He put on a fun set with a ton of poppy songs mixed in. For some reason John Stamos introduced the next band, the Jonas Brothers! They recently got back together and haven’t put on many shows since then, so the crowd went wild. They played their new songs, Sucker and Cool, and some old ones, like Year 3000, which was so fun to dance to! Also, Hannah B., the current bachelorette on ABC was there and did an introduction, which was cool.

Finally, Taylor Swift was the final act. The reason I was in LA! She came out in a super cool rainbow outfit with a ton of fringe. It was amazing to see her again! The last concert I saw was in Pittsburgh, in August. She opened up with Shake It Off, and I was so happy! She played eight songs: Shake It Off, Blank Space, I Knew You Were Trouble., Love Story, Delicate, Style, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, and Me! Me! is her newest single, for her seventh album, but that’s all we really know! We don’t have an album name or release date, yet. Brandon Urie, the singer of Panic! at the Disco, is featured in that song, and she brought him out to sing with her. It was amazing to see her preform Me! for one of the first times live. A couple times a camera crew was filming me during Taylor Swift, especially when she was surprising us with We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together. I hope I can find that footage sometime!

After Me! Wango Tango was done. Of course, she ended the show with confetti. There were so many swifties that it felt like a Taylor Swift show, which was really cool! During Delicate at the reputation tour, the fans would scream “1, 2, 3, let’s go bitch!” in a pause (don’t ask, haha), and everyone did that at Wango Tango, which just shows how many swifties were there!

After the show ended, we waited for Sergio. We went to Pittsburgh together, so it was so good to see him! He had seat filler tickets, and was lucky enough to have pit tickets near the cat walk! That must have been so amazing! He was taking a Lyft home with us, so we could catch up, since I didn’t get to see him during the show. There wasn’t a designated ride share lot, so a security guard told us to go to the nearby 7-eleven, so that’s what we did. I guess Carson isn’t a great area, so I’m glad it was close by. Haley’s phone was the first to connect to a driver, so she took care of that for us. The ride back to Haley’s was much shorter than the drive to Carson, and we didn’t even have to wait long at the 7-eleven. Sergio and I got to catch up, which was so nice! He is a really genuine guy that I truly consider a friend.

There was some drama on the way home, though. Alexandra found out that her boyfriend had been lying and possibly cheating on her. Alexandra and Haley had been blocked for a social media post, but using my phone, she was able to see her boyfriend “dancing” with a “friend”. Alexandra is a big personality, so she called her boyfriend and his friends and her mom, and broke up with him. Wow, that’s really sad! We all got out at Haley’s, and Sergio took a short ride home. I’m so thankful that I got to see him!

Alexandra came up with Haley and I, and was definitely going through some hard stuff. Haley and I got ready for bed (I was sure tired!). We tried to console Alexandra, but there wasn’t much we could do to make her feel better. Around 1:30, she took a Lyft home, and Haley and I immediately fell asleep. Honestly, it was an amazing concert and I’m so glad I flew down for it! :]

[wazafam]

Top Gear returns for its 30th season on BBC America April 25, and its racing right back into action without any stop signs ahead. The trio of popular hosts -  Chris Harris, Paddy McGuinness and Freddie Flintoff - have seen the iconic series rise to new heights and a wider audience thanks to their chemistry and the producers' innovative challenges.

The men hop into some "dad cars" for the premiere, reminiscing about their fathers and getting in touch with their emotions, but there are also plenty of Ferraris and hilarious racing segments in store. Despite the pandemic limiting their travel and interactions, the creators and hosts alike have found ways to keep their target audience entertained.

Related: Top Gear: 10 Best Jeremy Clarkson Quotes Of All Time

Harris, McGuinness and Flintoff spoke to Screen Rant and several other outlets at a recent press day, describing what was surprising about the latest season, explaining which they considered the "ultimate dad cars," and revealing how they'd like to celebrate their fifth series together.

Last season showcased how you can provide quality entertainment in the midst of a pandemic. What new ways have you been stretched creatively this season?

Paddy McGuinness: Well, it's been a little bit easier for us, as opposed to other people making TV shows, because for a lot of stuff we do we're in the car on our own with a little GoPro camera. We had to stay in a bubble together as well.

Apart from we've not traveled about as much, kind of filming in the UK, it's been sort of easier really. You feel fortunate that you can get out and work when everybody else is on, and we've got a chance to spend time with each other, drive cars, have some fun. You have a newfound appreciation of what you're doing.

Chris Harris: I think the producers had to come up with a couple of novel treatments to take us out of our comfort zone; you'll see those. One of them involves being towed behind the car, wearing a pair of titanium-soled boots at speeds that we never ever want to achieve again.

But other than that, really just trying to make the hub of the show the Cars. We've got a great spread of cars, from the new Defender to Ferrari Roma; we've got Fred in a bonkers electric Rally Car, and a beautiful old Alfa Romeo that's been reimagined. We've got a great spread of cars, and us lot having fun.

That's the core of the show, and actually, we're amazed at how much of that you can do still in the middle of a pandemic. So, we've been very, very lucky.

The Dad Cars episode was really wonderful to watch. What was it like to film?

Paddy McGuinness: It was lovely. We do a lot of mad stuff on Top Gear, and we're always having fun, so it was nice to rein that little bit back in a bit and be a bit honest with each other and talk about stuff and show a little bit of emotion. It'll be interesting to see how the viewers respond to something like that.

It was kind of honest. What you see is what you got with us, really. Yeah, it was a really nice episode, that one.

Freddie Flintoff: It was amazing getting into them cars and sitting there, looking around at the dashboard and all the dials, and all of a sudden everything starts flooding back from your childhood. I was [in] the car; I used to play cricket and my dad used to drive me up and down the country, and everything started flooding back. Then you flip it on its head: I'm driving and I'm a dad now, so I'm questioning myself as a dad and trying out, "Am I doing the right thing?"

So, it was emotional. And then, obviously, we lower the tone by sticking my ass in Paddy's face. There's a bit of everything there.

Chris Harris: Top Gear has been and is many things, but films like that make you realize it's actually a very simple product. It's about how human beings interact with motorcars, and why this weird mechanical object somehow elicits such emotional responses from human beings. Why we have opinions and why they cause arguments and, on that level, the memories that we have in them.

It was a very clever treatment from the producers, and not one that I was automatically comfortable with. But when you're they're presented with this thing that makes you remember such pungent memories, you can't really avoid it.

What would you consider the ultimate Dad Car, aside from the ones you drove in the episode or that brought back memories of your father's cars?

Paddy McGuinness: It'll be different because you're in the States, so you'll have a different view. You might be able to pull out some American cars that you think are dads cars.

Chris Harris: I think a Dad's car in the States would have to be something like a Mustang, because I just think it's the kind of car that you wish your dad had driven if he didn't drive one. And it's got some back seats, so you can actually go in there as a little person.

I know this is a difficult [ranking], but it's affordable. You can imagine a lot of people being able to afford a Mustang, because it can't be something that's too expensive and fancy pants. So, I'd go for that, really. I certainly wouldn't go minivan, F150, a truck or something. You could argue that, but for me, I'd like to think it was 'stang.

Freddie Flintoff: We've got four kids, we need a lot of seats. But on Chris' theme, I've bought these Camaros quite often. My kids love that, because in England it's completely different to anything else that you see on the roads. They don't have them out in the country, these left-hand drives, so it's a bit of an adventure for the kids. It's something a bit different. Just to get them all in at the same time, that's the other thing.

You moved to BBC One, the ratings have increased, and people really responded to your chemistry. What is it that you think works so well between the three of you?

Paddy McGuinness: I think we don't act when we're on. We are who we are, and it's a natural sort of chemistry we have around each other. Our personalities are different but, then again, they're very similar. I think viewers like it when they know you're being yourself, and we definitely are. If we lose a race, we hate it; if we win, we really go over the top with our celebrations. And we have a good time together.

We're talking about, hopefully - once this pandemic gets a bit more under control and we can travel again - coming over to the States and maybe doing a big road trip there as well. So, that'll be quite interesting. It's all exciting things ahead. But, yeah, I think we're just ourselves.

Freddie Flintoff: I think as well, the more time we spend together, the more you know each other. I think we are improving. The three of us, but also the producers, the crew and everyone has an understanding of what makes people tick; what people don't like; where to niggle people when you need to. I think we're going in the right direction. We can still improve obviously, but we're getting there.

What are you most proud of in Season 30?

Paddy McGuinness: Surviving it. Coming out alive; that was some achievement with the things they've had us doing.

Chris Harris: We were very lucky to be given the chance to get some cars from James Bond movies together, and that's not often done. To go onto the internet and find film or pictures of a load of old famous Bond cars in one place? You won't, because the fil productions very rarely allow that. But they did this time, so we got the chance to open a hangar that we've had filled with significant Bond cars. That was a great moment.

We also got to drive some as well. That's one that, when it comes to negotiating your paycheck, you actually in the back of your mind are thinking, "I'd pay to do that. I don't need to be paid to do that." It's one of those.

Freddie Flintoff: I think for me, it's hard to get past the dad cars. It's a change of pace, and it's also an opportunity to talk up your dad. He's the center of it, and you're driving the car he drove. I think when you watch that, as I say, it's a change of pace from a lot of stuff we do.

Hopefully fans will like that. I enjoyed watching that and listening to Paddy and Chris' reactions. Because, as Paddy said before, we don't see what each other are doing on board in the car. It was obviously Paddy and Chris talking about their dads, but they're not necessarily conversations that we'd have.

Do you watch the episodes with your families? What do they think?

Paddy McGuinness: I don't, actually. I don't watch it with my family, weirdly enough.

Chris Harris: It's tricky, that. My youngest boy is 10, and I'll sometimes watch it with him. But the others... There's a terrible self-consciousness about television, where you can't stand the sound of your own voice.

You've been through the process. You're not watching it afresh; you've seen the edit, you've done the voiceover for the film. So actually, you're familiar with most of the film. It sounds awful, but I'm very proud of what we do, and I'll watch their films. I'll watch their individual films, but I won't watch mine. When it's on, I would rather be anywhere than in front of a television. That's not because I'm not proud of it, it's just because I think so many people that make television or present it feel the same way. I'd rather go and kick a wall; I just cringe whenever I see myself and television,

Freddie Flintoff: My father'll watch it. Unlike Chris, I don't watch it with him. I hear the music come on, and they're all sat there. I'm a bit of a hoverer; I just hover about, popping my head around the door, and seeing if they're enjoying it.

And then I think my kids as well; they just expect me to embarrass myself as well. They're at an age now, where [everyone's] watching at their school and people are talking about it.

There hasn't been very much opportunity to drive with the pandemic. A lot of people haven't been in cars very much, and there's been a big detachment from the way that we think of them. Top Gear's always been a big, frivolous, masculine, outrageous thing - but was there an urge to make the cars more relatable to people, and to bring that emotive element back in different ways?

Chris Harris: Naturally, we've had less scope to go out and do that hyperbolic stuff. Top Gear always has to be a little bit of a cartoon, I think. If it isn't a cartoon, it just becomes a very cold and antiseptic review show, and everyone's realized that's not what mainstream television want. Because it would get about half a million viewers and would be off the air fairly quickly.

The masculine side of it, I don't necessarily see that. I think at the moment, it's just presented as, "If you like machinery, you like machinery." I think the "Dad's Cars" film was a good demonstration of the fact that we're exploring people's relationship with motor cars, as opposed to just going out and going too nuts.

But yes, to add to your point, there is a crazy Lamborghini that's got too much power that is unaffordable. It's a very difficult balance, really. Top Gear should be a good balance of silliness and relatable content, and in the last year the motorcar has not continued its role in our lives that it once had. I suppose we've had to slightly move with that, although being out and about when everyone else wasn't driving was tricky - because at times I think we felt guilty that we had that freedom.

But what were we supposed to do? We're not just going to go sit at home and do nothing either. Hopefully, we're providing a product that people can sit and watch and enjoy. It's a bit of a soup of emotions. Hopefully, we've trodden the right path, and I think the "Dad's Car" film first up will make people go, "We haven't seen that before."

Next year is going to be your fifth series as a trio. Is there something that you would love to do to celebrate?

Paddy McGuinness: I'd like to do more stuff on me own. [Laughs] I'll just go on a little road trip; on my own in the car. I'll be happy with that.

I don't know. I think I always like it, and it's been tricky doing it at the moment with a pandemic. But I like doing stuff when the three of us are in the same vehicle together. Because when you're talking to each other on a radio, it's okay, but you miss the little nuances. When we're in the car together, I feel as though they get more out of us.

So, going forward - like we've said about maybe a trip across the States - it'd be great to do that in a big RV or something. And I think it will be quite a funny episode as well. That's what I'd like to do; something where the three of us are in the same vehicle.

Freddie Flintoff: I love the sound of that. I'd like to do a big, unplanned adventure and just see what happens. It's been God knows how long, and I'd love to be with these two going across America. To me, that'd be brilliant if and when we can start traveling again.

Chris Harris: I agree with those two and America. I think an RV, a really shonky old Winnebago for the 70s - one of those really upright ones. Pile us into that, give us a tetanus jab so we don't catch anything off upholstery, and then just send us off to experience silly American [things].

On World of Outlaws, those speedboats that do that thing - all that stuff would be brilliant. One of us will die, but it'll be worth it for the greater good.

Paddy McGuinness: Graceland, all that stuff. But I'd love to go to Alaska. I want go to Alaska, I just look at the map... Look at the size of it! It's just massive; there must be adventures to be had in Alaska.

Since you mentioned Alaska, is there any place that you would love to take the camper van across states?

Paddy McGuinness: I'm a real movie buff, so a lot of America I see from films I've loved over the years. I'd really like to see San Francisco, just because I've seen the Golden Gate Bridge on tons of Alcatraz TV shows and films. I'd love to kind of drive over that and see that place, all the windy roads. I just love all that, but that's just me.

Freddie Flintoff: I'd like to do America, but follow a music group. So you've got Graceland, you go see Sinatra stuff. Just follow the greats of music and all that.

Chris Harris: I'd do what he'd do; I'd just be going north over the Golden Gate Bridge, and I'd just go straight to Napa, and basically just stay there and drink wine.

Was there anything this series that really surprised you when you went in? Anything unscripted that brought new depths, or conversations that made you see things in a brand new light?

Paddy McGuinness: Watching it back, it was seeing the loves reactions on the road, talking to the camera. It was quite nice to see that; even though we all have different experiences with our dads, it's all the same thing essentially. We have very similar memories, so it was just nice seeing all that. It was quite surprising.

Chris Harris: We've also done a film about what we call Midlife Crisis Cars. We've taken the idea of the midlife crisis - which clearly, the three of us and the way we're dressed, we're right in the middle of one anyway - and we've turned it into a midlife opportunity.

Rather than being ashamed of what you might want to do when you're in your mid- to late 40s, and have better resources than perhaps when you were in you 20s, we've said, "Embrace it. Celebrate it." That's quite a fun film, saying, "Don't be ashamed of it." I think there's been quite a few people that watch Top Gear that might be accused of being in a bit of a midlife crisis by their loved ones. We're like a comfort blanket to them. Come and be a part of our club; we know how you feel.

Freddie Flintoff: We're all in lycra in that episode. So, if you've got an HDTV, turn it off. You'll save yourself a lot of a lot of misery.

More: 10 Best BBC Dramas, Ranked

Top Gear premieres its 30th season on Sunday, April 25 at 8pm ET/7c on BBC AMERICA and AMC+.

Freddie Flintoff, Paddy McGuinness, & Chris Harris Interview: Top Gear Season 30 from https://ift.tt/3qnhO8w

[thisislizheather]

June Jaunts 2020

Above Photo: New York Public Library, June 2020

Can someone just hit me in the face hard enough so that I wake up in 2021? As a favour to me? (Also I love that we’re all assuming that a new year means a completely fresh new slate and that none of the actions taken this year will affect the rest of our lives? It’s ridiculous, but it’s a type of logic that I can absolutely get on board with.) In any case, life is hell right now. Here’s what went on in hell this month.

I found a new streaming site for movies that is incredible.

My brother Gary made another gravy video (this time a Swiss Chalet one) and of course it’s perfect.

My Dad turned 97!

I started doing Ipsy bag reviews again. The best find from the bag this month: a REALHER lipstick. Just amazing quality and I need to look further into their other products.

I watched Get Me Roger Stone and the man seems like a needy psychopath.

I rewatched The Disaster Artist: still great.

I tried hard seltzer (not White Claw, it was a brand called HOOT) and it was very okay, I just don’t see the big deal? I think we all have low standards for things being good.

God, I miss Jon Stewart. I find myself just watching old segments from his show which are sadly still incredibly relevant. 

I visited this coffee shop in Astoria called Coffee + Cake that’s so lovely. They make freshly baked goods each day and homemade ice cream and I’ll definitely return. This is their tomato & parmesan focaccia bread.

I started taking antihistamine eye drops for seasonal allergies and they’ve cured me completely. It’s insane. I love them.

I tried birthday cake Kit Kats because why wouldn’t I and of course they’re good. But they’re basically just… white Kit Kats… and that’s already a thing that exists… and look I’m not trying to hate on them, so I’ll keep my mouth shut about it from here on out.

If I became famous, the first thing I’d endorse would be Vicks (obviously), but the second thing? This dairy-free, almond milk yogurt DAH! Yes, the name is terrible. But the yogurt is heavenly. The madagascar vanilla will change you.

Finally made this ricotta jam jar with crostini and it was everything I wanted it to be and more.

I’ve been keeping a collection of photos taken of the city throughout the pandemic that are just gorgeous photos, here are a few.

Above Photo: April 2020, photo by Jerome Strauss

Above Photo: March 12th, 2020, the first night of Broadway going dark - photo by Gretchen Robinette for Gothamist

Above Photo: June 2020, photo by Benjamin Norman for The New York Times

Above Photo: April 2020, photo by Jerome Strauss

Above Photo: April 2020, photo by Jerome Strauss

I watched the Holy Chicken! documentary from the Super Size Me guy and it was okay. I did know a lot of those chicken facts already since we haven’t been eating meat these last few months, so it wasn’t anything revolutionary. And then after I watched it, I was reading about it and then came across all the gross behavior by the creator of the film and uggghhhh I wish I hadn’t watched and supported it now.

I tried this New Orleans cold brew and whoa. Good stuff. I don’t exactly know the difference between cold brew and coffee and it’s such a boring thing to look up, so… here we are.

Will forever love the food at The Thirsty Koala in Astoria. Thank you Katie, Greg & Irene for gifting us so much of their food this month! Truly so sweet of you.

Favourite tweets of the month.

New favourite Health-Ade kombucha flavour: passion fruit - tangerine. Absolutely unreal.

I bought a ton of underwear from Aerie since I don’t feel comfortable going into any stores or on the subway yet, and they’re actually pretty great quality (I’m sorry I didn’t get on this sooner, Marla.) The sizing is a little off in that one medium doesn’t fit like another medium, but once you figure it out, you’re good.

This girl. She’s still breaking my heart with these renditions.

How do I set my Google Alerts so that these types of stories are the only news stories I read?

I learned how to make vodka martinis at home, so what I’m trying to say is that I’m better than you now.

Truly don’t know how I feel about this news, but I think I have to support it, right? I wish we could just leave good things alone. Why must we always want more.

I watched The Joy Luck Club and here’s my takeaway: don’t have daughters. And also maybe don’t have mothers? It seems like everyone is a disappointment to every character in this movie. I was expecting to love it, so when that didn’t happen I was a little disappointed.

I watched Dan In Real Life (mainly because of Steve Carell who was way too good for this movie) and it suuuuucked. Hated Dane Cook. Hated the plot. Hated the whole white, rich, we-dance-as-a-family type aesthetic of the whole movie. 

I watched the first season of You and a few episodes of the second season and uuuuuuuggggghhhhhh what a garbage show. I don’t need to see anyone romanticize some pathetic Gossip Girl loser who I feel no empathy for. It’s actually just so badly written and how on earth did someone green-light this trash. Here’s a good piece written about it.

Also watched a bunch of reruns of 3rd Rock From The Sun and what an underrated, great show. Wish I remembered it more.

I’ve been on a real Harrison Ford bender lately and I can’t see it stopping anytime soon. I watched Sabrina (which was okay, the best part was seeing him play a nerdish, unlovable character). I also watched Working Girl (which is really not a great movie, but it was only watchable for Ford). Also saw Air Force One and what a movie. How on earth have I never seen it before?? Such a fox. If you haven’t seen it before, I shall entice you with this one line.

Rainier cherries are in season now and while I don’t particularly love a cherry, these are delightful.

I’ve been sucking down these Saratoga Springs sparkling waters for days and there’s no turning back, they’re refreshing in a way I didn’t think existed. Just pure magic.

The only summer salad that’s worth a damn is this panzanella salad, but make sure you add fresh mozzarella to it.

I never thought I liked biscotti until a friend recently made it, so maybe I’m just into chocolate biscotti?

What a great idea (below):

If you’d like to hear the birds in NYC right now, get on over here.

I started watching Insecure but couldn’t really get into it, maybe I’ll give it more of a chance, maybe not. I feel like if you’re not hooked into a show within three episodes, it’s not gonna happen.

I rewatched Clueless and it’s really just a perfect movie. I could quote every line in this movie at one point in my life and I think I might still be able to. Still looking to emulate this perfect outfit one day.

Cannot stop making this broccoli pasta with Banza and the Beyond Meat sausage.

Absolutely haunted by this moving front page of the Times.

I finished watching Fuller House and I’ll never know why I wanted to, it’s such a corny/actually-bad show and yet I still watched. Thankfully it’s over forever.

Incase you’re looking for an alternative site to Amazon for buying books: Bookshop.org

I haven’t read a book in what feels like forever, so I finally finished Glennon Doyle’s Untamed and wrote about it.

Excited to one day see the new LaGuardia.

I went over what I did from my spring list that I made in March.

I naively made a list of what I’d like to do this summer.

It’s been a harder month than normal and I found myself watching The Land Before Time and uncontrollably weeping onto my yoga mat (I like to watch movies in the background when I’m working out). A kind of cry that comes around every decade or so where you can’t really breathe and you’re blinded my tears and everything is too much to handle. I know it’s a sad movie, but I think it was the movie and the combination of this month that made me react that way. In any case, I hope kids today still want to watch that movie. It’s a hard one, but it’s really still so good.

My grandmother Ma passed away this month and since travel is not allowed, it was especially difficult for this to happen now. I felt helpless being separated from most of my family so I wrote a bit about how it made me feel. I could talk about the greatness of this woman endlessly, how it’s insane that you could live in this day and age and not read or write and still enrich the lives of everyone you know, there’s no way to sum her up as a person. I’ll just miss her. Her voice, her endless encouragement, all of it.

Some things I’d like to do this month: I’d like to not sink into an unending pit of depression (that’d be great), I’d like to keep going on our nightly walks with Nathan, I’m likely going to buy these bike shorts as soon as they’re back in stock and you can’t stop me (I already have an outfit in mind, trust me it’s gonna look good), I was looking forward to movie theatres reopening (the Regal near our house specifically) but the date’s been pushed again to the end of July (which will likely get pushed again), and I’d really like to start and finish another book this month.

If you’ve got any interest in reading last month’s roundup, you can see what went down in May over here.

[newshirtonlines-blog]

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[real-life-pine-tree]

Arc-V Aftermath: Fourteen Years Later (26/26)

When all is said and done, things have quickly recovered in the four dimensions. But when weird things start happening, the Yu-Salad Boys and the Bracelet Girls quickly realize they have some loose ends to fix. Co-written with @violetganache42​​​​​.

WARNING: Dub names will be featured in the story.

"Welcome to the annual Japan Academy Film Prize," a reporter said. "I'm out here live on the red carpet waiting for the nominees of this year's awards to show up."

Suddenly, there was a mass amount of cheering. "And that would be Japan's number one sweetheart Lulu Obsidian," the reporter said. "As all of you may know, Ms. Obsidian originated from the city of New Domino-Heart. Despite having a spinal injury when she was only fourteen years old, she has since made a healthy recovery. Now she stars in various movies, with her latest project being The Rise of Angel Feather as lead protagonist Shamsiel."

A limousine pulled up in front of the red carpet and the driver got out of his seat and walked over towards the back door. As he opened it, a pair of female feet wearing silver high heels stepped out and the figure exited the limo to reveal herself to be 28-year-old Lulu Obsidian, who was now able to walk again. She kept her signature long, dark purple hair, which was tied into a bun behind her neck with wavy, lilac side tails, and she wore a sapphire blue, floor-length dress covering her cleavage with silver jewelry encrusted from her hips and the neckline before meeting at the center of her upper chest along with said high heels.

While it was true that Lulu was born and raised in Heartland City, all four dimensional cities were actually merged back into the Original Dimension's city that was divided up into four different sections that strongly mirrored its reincarnations. Each section was originally called Paradise, Heartland, New Domino, and Domino sections because they all looked the same when Zarc fused the dimensions back into one, including the colorful XYZ city that was brought back to its pre-Invasion state. Another reason was because it took the citizens some time to figure out the new name, but they eventually settled on New Domino-Heart to emphasize the unification and regained trust among its citizens that was achieved in the Team Duel Tournament.

The reporter walked over to Lulu. "Ms. Obsidian, I'm Camilla Minstar of the radio show Chatting with the Stars," she said. "How do you feel about your first Academy Prize nomination?"

"I'm not quite sure," Lulu answered. "But finding out about the nomination was a wonderful surprise. Even if I don't win, it's still an honor to be nominated."

"And I see you look as lovely as ever," Camilla said.

"Thank you," Lulu replied. "As always, I designed this look for tonight. You know I have a reputation of always staying fashionable."

Meanwhile, in the Heartland section's suburbs, an dark-haired man has just returned home from another day at work. As he watched the award show in his living room, the light from a nearby lamp casted it luminosity all over the room, brightening it from the darkness along with his face and figure to unveil that he was none other than Yuto Osaku. His hairstyle was still spiky, but it was a bit shorter and evenly-trimmed with the exception of a few long feathered bangs hanging near his right eye. However, he did preserve his preference of wearing dark clothes since he was donned in a black business suit.

Starting at the age of eighteen, he began attending medical school and got his medical degree after completing Japan's required six years of studying medicine. He then went on to become the founder and head of his own health clinic called Phantom Care Hospital. Although the last time he saw Lulu was when they graduated from Heartland Duel School, he keeps tabs on her by following her on Twitter and watching her movies, including The Rise of Angel Feather.

Yuto let out a loving sigh at the sight of his girlfriend. He respected her wishes of not contacting her due to her request of not wanting the world to know about her personal life, so he instead admired her from afar, including watching the award show.

"You look absolutely beautiful," Yuto said, wishing Lulu was able to hear him say that.

Just then, the sound of a telephone ringing snapped Yuto's focus on the television, so he walked over to answer it. "Hello?"

"Yuto, are you watching the Japan Academy Film Prize?"

Yuto let out a chuckle from the sudden outburst. "It's good to hear from you, Shay," he replied.

During the past fourteen years, Shay has succeeded his parents and became the new CEO of ObsidianCorp, making sure the employees continue doing a terrific job at cleaning the parks. He has also married an heiress from a different family named Dextra Papillion, who was only two years older than him.

"I'm serious," Shay happily said. "Are you watching the award show?"

"Of course I am," Yuto answered. "Lulu looks amazing."

"I'm so proud of her," Shay said. "It feels like it was only yesterday she was just a newborn infant. Now she's a famous actress all over the country."

"I know," Yuto agreed. "She's Japan's number one sweetheart."

"You have my mother and father to thank for that," Shay said. "After all these years, she's still maintaining her perfect image."

Kameron and Astra didn't pass away; they simply retired and moved to a vacation home when their son took over the family company. If one thing's for certain, they really did a great job at raising their kids. They taught them the manners and etiquette of living in a high class society while also being loving parents, resulting in their children to become amazing adults, especially Lulu. Because of her kind heart and elegance, she had become Japan's number one sweetheart, and that is no opinion. It was a well-known fact all over the country.

"I saw The Rise of Angel Feather in theaters," Yuto said, walking over to his DVD collection. He pulled out his copy of the movie he had mentioned. "Lulu did an amazing job portraying the lead."

"I know," Shay agreed. "I'm not a big Vanguard fan, but it felt like she captured the character's personality perfectly."

Prior to the newest movie's production, Lulu had heard about auditions for playing the various characters in the film, so she went to a game store that sells Vanguard and bought herself an Angel Feather starter deck to help get herself into character. Naturally, she landed the role of the main lead and learned the rules of the card game throughout the production, making her the first ever Duelist who plays Vanguard. Yuto and Shay remembered seeing her tweet about the purchase she made for her audition.

"I hope all that hard work pays off," Yuto said, recalling how the movie's nomination came as a huge shock.

At the award show, Lulu had just entered backstage and looked around to see where the other nominated actors and actresses were meeting. Once she found them from across where she entered, she was about to head over there until her former nursemaid Lillybot showed up.

"Lillybot?" Lulu asked. "What are you doing here?"

"FORGIVE ME, MISTRESS LULU," Lillybot said. "AS YOUR PERSONAL ASSISTANT, I ONLY WANTED TO MAKE SURE YOU WERE READY FOR ANY POSSIBLE ACCEPTANCE SPEECHES." She brought out a cup of tea. "PLEASE DRINK THIS TO PREVENT YOUR THROAT FROM GETTING DRY."

Lulu took the cup of tea from Lillybot and thanked her before drinking it. "Thank you, Lillybot," the dark purple-haired woman said.

"ALWAYS AN HONOR TO SERVE YOU," Lillybot replied.

Lulu drank her tea to help prevent her throat from getting dry if she wins an award and does an acceptance speech. After taking her last sip, she handed the cup back to Lillybot.

"YOU MUST HEAD BACK TO YOUR SEAT," Lillybot advised. "IN A FEW HOURS, THEY WILL ANNOUNCE THE AWARD YOU WERE NOMINATED FOR."

"Of course," Lulu said. "They're already doing the vacuum cleaner joke from the Oscars a few years ago."

She headed across backstage to meet up with the other actors and actresses as they all headed to their seats before this year's Japan Academy Film Prize can start. A few hours have passed and a selected bunch have been presented with their awards for various categories such as Animation of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Popularity Award, Picture of the Year, Outstanding Achievements in Music, Cinematography, Lightning Direction, Art Direction, Sound Recording, and Film Editing, etc. After finishing the Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, it was time for the category Lulu was nominated in: Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role.

"The nominees for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role are: Ana Mioji, Songstress Dipped in Nightshade; Lulu Obsidian, The Rise of Angel Feather; Eni Eechi, Fallen Starlight; and Boku Oganu, The Lucky Gold-Heeled Shoe."

Lulu got a bit concerned. She saw the other movies so she could see her competition, but they were all amazing. Could any of these more professional actresses do a better job than her?

"And the Japan Academy Prize goes to..."

...

...

...

"...Lulu Obsidian, The Rise of Angel Feather."

Lulu's face filled with surprised glee and a tiny bit of tearful rejoice as she heard the audience cheer and applaud for her. She got up from her seat and walked to the stage to accept her award, but this award was more…unique than the others, to say the least. The people in charge of the award show also gave her an envelope with no name from on it; wondering who it was from, she opened it up and read the letter that was in it, bringing even more joy to her, but it was more subtle. She didn't want to spoil what she read right now because she has an acceptance speech to give out. An altered speech with the read message being saved for last.

"When I was younger, my parents had engaged me to a boy named Reginald Kastle," Lulu said. "It was a typical arranged marriage with standard business reasons. But when I got older, I soon learned his love wasn't real. He only wanted to be with me because of my wealthy background, something I quickly realized after transferring to a new school."

The dark-haired woman took a deep breath before she continued. "But then I met him," she said. "An utter gentleman with a kind heart and a noble personality. He fell in love for me because of who I am as a person and not because of my background. A few weeks passed and we ended up dating. My parents noticed how happy I was, so they canceled the arranged marriage.

"Now this may come as a surprise, but I'm still dating that same gentleman. And after all these years, I finally found out how much he really cares about me." She then took out a diamond ring from the envelope. "So yes, Yuto Osaku, I will marry you."

Yuto stood in front of the television as his face flooded with so many happy emotions after hearing Lulu accepting his marriage proposal. He was recently back on the phone with Shay and heard his friend's reaction since they were both on speaker.

"You planned this from the beginning, didn't you?" Shay asked.

"It wasn't much," Yuto replied. "All I did was give Lillybot an envelope containing a letter and a diamond ring I bought with my own money and told her give it to Lulu when the time is right."

That would explain why the former nursemaid was backstage; it was to help fulfill Yuto's easy plan to propose to her without exposing her personal life due to her family quota of maintaining a perfect image no matter what. Shay admitted that it was rather strategic of him to pull this off while respecting her wishes at the same time.

"So do you think the news will talk about the engagement?" Yuto asked.

"Of course they will," Shay answered. "Lulu has maintained her perfect image for years. The press can't say anything bad about her."

"In a shocking turn of events, Japan's number one sweetheart Lulu Obsidian revealed she has been dating a mysterious man named Yuto Osaku for the past fourteen years after winning the Japan Academy Film Prize for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role. The next day, Ms. Obsidian posted on her Twitter account that she plans to reveal her boyfriend's identity within a few days on the day of an upcoming wedding."

The word about this proposal became the hottest trending topic all over New Domino-Heart by the next morning. People have been talking about it since after the award show through social media, public discussions, and the news. In the Paradise section, a married couple was at home watching the morning news when they learned about what's recently been buzzing around, shocking a noticeable tomato-haired man.

"Way to go, Yuto," Yuya remarked. "You finally popped the question."

Zuzu let out a small laugh. "Need I remind you how you proposed to me?" she asked.

Within the past fourteen years, the two's lessons they were taught at You Show Duel School have paid off and they became Performapal and Melodious Dueltainers. They retained their trademark hairstyles except Zuzu now had longer hair as seen by the pigtails going past her shoulders. She has also controlled her Number-related powers thanks to the bracelet Byron made for her; it was white with gold details and it was connected to her En Flowers marking. At the same time, she and Yuya have gotten married, meaning she was now a Sakaki, and she never forgot the year before their marriage when her husband proposed to her that stood out when compared to most proposals.

"Oh, come on!" Yuya said. "It wasn't that bad!"

"You had your Performapals parade around the whole city!" Zuzu recalled.

Well, the Performapal Proposal Parade did stir up a lot of attention from the citizens as they all got out to see what the commotion was all about. They were pretty perplexed by what they saw at first, including Zuzu, who knew it was Yuya's doing but wasn't sure why he marched throughout the city with his monsters until she was asked to marry him.

"But you were smiling," Yuya pointed out.

At that point, Zuzu smiled wide. "Yeah, you're right." She gave her husband a loving kiss, intertwining her fingers through his hair. "Just be glad I still love you."

Yuya chuckled after Zuzu finished her sentence. While it was true that his proposal attracted people in a far different manner than his cousin's, it still won his wife over into the marriage that they are in today.

"In other news, Team Turbo has taken their 11th consecutive win in the Dueling Championship in Miami, Florida. Team leader Yugo Clearwind was able to secure their unbeatable winning streak despite the strongest person on the team, his wife Rin Clearwind, being unable to participate due to being pregnant with his child."

For the past several months, the Yu-Salad and Energy Girls have known about Rin's pregnancy during her and Yugo's time in America. As a matter of fact, the news of them having a baby was one of their most recent calls to their counterparts, with the last ones being about their marriage ten years ago. Yuya and Zuzu watched the latest news update of the Clearwinds' most recent victory and their unborn child.

Rin was glad that she decided on outgrowing her wavy hair during the sleepover at Lulu's house because it was around the same length as Zuzu's pigtails; she was also the same fashionista as she was when she was younger as seen by the teal, long-sleeved, knee-length dress she wore with the sleeves folded up at the wrists and had on a pair of green flats. As for Yugo, half of his blonde bangs covered his forehead while the longer half was swept to his right and his whispy, dark blue hair was spikier on the back of his head. He was also wearing a slightly altered version of his old Turbo Duel suit.

"This doesn't mean I'm giving up my dueling career," Rin said in an interview. She patted her round belly. "Once the bun is out of the oven, I'm goin' back on my Duel Runner!"

Yugo looked alarmed. "What?" he asked. "Come on, RinRin. Don't you need your body to recover? I can tell Ren's a feisty one from all that kicking."

"Ren?" Rin asked.

"I thought it might work as a name for our son," Yugo explained. "I wanted to name him after the most adorable being on the planet."

Rin smiled at Yugo's reasoning behind their first child's name and it was truly thoughtful and sweet of him to name their son after her. She gave him a loving kiss. "I love you, you moron," she said.

Yugo grinned after being given a kiss from Rin, but a sure sign of their strong relationship was, without a doubt, him being called a moron. Despite everyone's initial confusion, they have gotten used to the fact it was basically a nickname for him that he has adapted to over the years, and she happily knows it.

Meanwhile, in the Domino section, Duel Academy has been under new management since after the Team Duel Tournament after-party and the school's new leaders just happened to be Yuri and Celina, who joined his side after graduating from Paradise Prep School ten years ago. The two still kept the haircuts they got not long after the blood separation, but their attires were now different due to professional reasons. Celina was the headmistress of the school and dressed in a dark red women's business suit with matching flats. Yuri was one of the teachers that teaches the popular Wicked Dueltainment and modeled in a purple variant of the Academy's teachers uniform with white linings and buttoned up on his right side with gold buttons.

"Now I shall show you the true power of Predaplants!" Yuri exclaimed. "I activate Super Polymerization! Predaplant Squid Drosera, capture that Dragon Zombie and create a botanical nightmare!"

All the students learning about Wicked Dueltainment have been using horror-themed and nightmarish ghoul decks to help incorporate the sinister and villainous atmosphere. Squid Drosera entangled Dragon Zombie in its venus flytrap tentacles and the two monsters were then fused together due to Super Polymerization's effect.

"The fun has only just begun," Yuri said, clasping his hands together. "Arise from the shadows of darkness, Starving Venom Fusion Dragon!"

Starving Venom's head stretched forward as he opened his mouth that was traced with saliva in between his jaws and his red orbs lit up before appearing on Yuri's side of the field.

"Now, my pet, it's feeding time!" Yuri continued. "Wipe out that student's remaining life poi-"

"What's going on here?!"

Yuri and the students turned to face Celina as she entered the room. Were they in trouble or does she have something important to say and needs everyone's attention?

"Headmistress Akaba!" a student exclaimed. "What are you doing here?"

"I heard some commotion from this exact classroom," Celina answered. "So I wanted to make sure my husband wasn't getting carried away with his lessons again."

Yep, it was true. The Fusion couple have also gotten married, and much like Yugo and Rin, they don't have any memory of their families or what their real last names are. In this case, throughout Yuri's rise to the Obelisk Force status, he was raised like a son by Leo, meaning he was considered as a father by the former. Since marriages usually involve the wife changing their surnames, Celina became part of the Akaba family as well; she cherishes it as a way to remind her of finally proving her strength to the former headmaster. Although they have adapted to their positions, Yuri does have a bit of a tendency to go overboard with his Wicked Dueltainment lessons, much like he was doing right now.

Yuri let out a laugh. "But it's all part of the lesson, my dear," he told Celina. "How are the students supposed to learn if I hold back?"

"You could at least let some of the students win," Celina pointed out. "You don't have to win every practice duel."

Talk about letting old habits die hard. Yuri has been a powerful Duelist all his life and he never holds back. "How dare you say such a thing!" he replied. "I am the most powerful Fusion Duelist in the world! I would never-"

Celina had walked up to Yuri and she kissed his neck. "If you hold back, there might be more than that tonight," she said.

Yuri's face was then coated in a tint of pink after hearing what Celina stated. He looked at her smirking expression because she knows how to pacify him; after all, they know neck kisses are a sign of affection to each other…at least, until the night hours.

"My goodness, Headmistress," Yuri said. "You sure know how to push the right buttons."

Celina let out a snicker in agreement with Yuri and out of proud satisfaction of what she was doing. "Just keep up the good work, hottie," she replied.

She then left the classroom to continue running the school and making sure the classes are going smoothly, but not forgetting to startle him by slapping his butt on her way out. He blushed even more as he continued his lesson.

"Alright class," Yuri said. "Now to resume today's lesson."

Later that day, Lulu's airplane that left Tokyo has just landed at the New Domino-Heart airport. She got up and straightened out her clothes before getting her luggage. For the trip back home, she chose to wear a more casual outfit for today that consisted of a yellow, shoulder-sleeved, knee-length dress that has a circular neckline, a pair of white sandals, and she had her hair tied in a ponytail. Even though she was constantly busy with her acting career and traveling to certain locations around the world for the movies' productions, she always managed to maintain her perfect image whether she's in casual or formal wear.

She and the passengers obtained their luggage and walked through the plane and into the airport. They all walked down the hallway where the restaurants and shops were to make their way to the arrival gate. Not too far away, she spotted her family, her fiancé, the former members of the Heartland Duel School Dueling Club, and her childhood friend.

Lulu was in absolute amazement. The last time she saw Yuto, he still had his eggplant-shaped hair and he wore glasses. He still wore suits, but his hair was slightly shorter and no longer resembled eggplants and his glasses were absent, suggesting that he now wore contacts. Puberty must have also been kind to him because he had matured into a handsome man.

Of course, Lulu didn't forget about her family and friends. "Everyone..." she said.

"Welcome back, Lulu!" Cathy said.

Setting her luggage down, Lulu walked over to where her loved ones were and gave them all one big group hug.

"MISTRESS LULU, PEOPLE ARE STARING," Lillybot pointed out.

"Oh, who cares?" Lulu asked. "I'm back home!"

It has been an entire decade since she last saw Kameron, Astra, Shay, Cathy, Sarah, Alex, Kite, and Yuto especially, so she wants to make the most of it worth while. After the hug ended, her fiancé went up to her to properly greet her in her return to her hometown.

"Welcome back, my princess," Yuto said, holding out his hand.

Lulu placed her hand in his. "Thank you, sweet knight," she said, allowing Yuto to kiss the back of her hand.

Just then, a white pigeon holding a piece of paper flew throughout the airport and spotted the crew, swooping down in front of Yuto and catching him off guard. Once he relaxed from the sudden surprise, he saw the tiny yellow handkerchief tied around its neck and what looked like a smaller version of Yuya's goggles on its forehead. It was his cousin's Solid Vision pet named Poppo, who has what looks like an invitation.

Yuto took the invitation from Poppo. "This is an invitation for a Sakaki Spectacular performance," he said as the pigeon flew off. "And Lulu and I are invited."

"So Yuya became a professional Dueltainer?" Lulu asked.

"Along with Zuzu," Shay answered. "I remember seeing commercials for their show. The two use their cards in a circus-inspired performance."

The Sakaki Spectacular was a Dueltaining show performed by Yuya and Zuzu. When the two started their careers as professional Dueltainers, they incorporated their archetypes' circus and musical themes into one big presentation with the purpose of bringing smiles, much like how Yusho's duels were years ago. Their routines consists of them engaging in Action Duels where their Performapals and Melodious battle each other while unleashing their best features as the two pro Duelists use Action Cards to enhance the flow of their duels and their monsters' specialties. At the same time, they also integrated Pendulum, Fusion, Synchro, XYZ, and Ritual Summoning into their decks by including cards that work well with their current strategies, leading to them to create new techniques that can make the show a lot better.

"I attended one of their shows," Sarah recalled. "It was a lot of fun."

"I see," Yuto said. He looked at the invitation again. "Should we check it out?"

"Of course," Lulu answered. "He's your cousin. Maybe he heard about our engagement and he wants to congratulate us."

Yuto looked back at his invitation; according to it, the show was tonight, and the news about his and Lulu's engagement have been spreading like wildfire. There was definitely no way this was just a coincidence. She may be right and this could be Yuya's way of congratulating them.

"The Sakakis have always been the closest thing I have to family," Yuto said. "Even if it isn't for the engagement, I would still like to see his show."

He was correct about the Sakakis being the closest family he has gotten ever since his mother Lono was killed while protecting him from Chazz's Chaos Ancient Gear Giant. It was thanks to a spiritual connection that he stumbled upon Yuya in the Standard Dimension during the Arc League Championship, who would later be revealed as his long-lost cousin shortly after accepting his ObsidianCorp job offer. Whatever the reason behind tonight's performance is or isn't because of his engagement, it sure will be nice to see Yuya again.

"Then it's settled," Lulu said. "We will see tonight's Sakaki Spectacular performance."

Later that night, after Lulu finished unpacking her pajamas, clothes, makeup, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, and other stuff from her suitcase at her old house, she and Yuto dressed up nice as they went over to the Paradise section to see where the Sakakis' show is going to take place. Based on the invitation Poppo delivered to Yuto, it was scheduled to occur in the dueling arena where Yuya's duel against the former Pro League champion the Sledgehammer took place that led to the very first Pendulum Summon.

"That's Lulu Obsidian!"

"I can't believe she's attending the show!"

"And look, she's with Dr. Osaku!"

"Could this be a date?"

"Doctor...?" Lulu asked. "Does that mean...?"

"Yep," Yuto answered. "You're looking at the founder and head of Phantom Care Hospital."

This revelation left Lulu surprised because Yuto achieved his dream of going to medical school and starting his own health clinic. He also mentioned that the skills he learned during his time at ObsidianCorp paid off because the success of his own hospital made him wealthy, so he now knows what to expect in living life in a high class neighborhood.

"So you're wealthy?" Lulu asked.

"Of course," Yuto answered. "Not as wealthy as your family, but the money I have made is enough to fit in among the rich and elite."

"That's incredible!" Lulu remarked. "I bet you were able to afford a lot of robot maids!"

"Only a few," Yuto explained. "It's the newest model. They're called Cleandroids."

Lulu felt like she's heard of the Cleandroids before in advertisements or something. The robot maids she and Shay have work fine, but that's because they're running on the same operating system as the newer models; in other words, the older robots are also getting updated to the latest program to make sure those that still use them won't experience any technical difficulties.

"So you live in a small house?" Lulu asked as she and Yuto found their seats.

"It's similar to where I grew up," Yuto answered. "So I had to get a few Cleandroids. They're small enough to operate in a normal housing environment."

As the two wrapped up their conversation, the lights dimmed until they were all off. That meant it was time for the show to begin. From within the natural darkness of the night sky, two spotlights flashed on and its luminescence rained down on Yuya and Zuzu, who were both wearing matching circus-themed costumes with his hair combed back and pulled back in a short ponytail and her hair tied up in a bun.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Sakaki Spectacular!" Yuya exclaimed.

"The most glorious show in all of New Domino-Heart!" Zuzu exclaimed.

"And now, let the show begin!" the two exclaimed in unison, resulting in a massive applause.

"But before we begin, we're gonna need two volunteers," Yuya said.

Zuzu looked surprised. "That wasn't in rehearsal..." she realized.

"Luckily we have the perfect volunteers," Yuya continued. "Will Yuto Osaku and Lulu Obsidian please join us onstage?"

Two more spotlights flashed on right where Yuto and Lulu were sitting. He was starting to become convinced that his cousin did found out about their engagement. Simultaneously, he wasn't the biggest fan of gaining attention from a large crowd or an entire audience; as for Lulu, she enjoyed it, which was a perk of being an actress.

"Thank you!" Lulu said with a smile and a polite wave. "It's such a delight to have a warm reception!"

"Yuya, you owe me big time..." Yuto muttered, trying to hide his face with one hand.

The two stood up and walked down the bleacher stairs to the center of the arena, with Yuto still covering his face to divert himself from the attention and somewhat embarrassed that Yuya asked him and Lulu to be volunteers. Of all the people he could have chosen, he went with the recently engaged couple?

"Tonight's performance is to celebrate my cousin's engagement to his long-term girlfriend!" Yuya announced. "They have the honor of facing off against my wife and I in a tag team duel!"

Zuzu had no clue about Yuya planning a tag team duel for his cousin and soon-to-be cousin-in-law. It was nice of him to create a special event for them, but this wasn't part of the routine; besides, how will they perform Dueltainment for an unrehearsed duel? Yuto, on the other hand, was torn between using both hands to cover his face or stopping himself from hiding away from the attention. He knew that this was because of last night's engagement and he blamed the widespread media for that, but he also hasn't dueled in a long time due to how busy he was with work. Lulu was lucky that she got to practice Duel Monsters more since it was a crucial part of acting, but what about her promise of revealing him on the day of the wedding? It was mostly done to keep her personal life intact yet he has gotten wealthy over the years, so it may be undetermined what the people were going to say about this premature reveal.

"So whaddya say, cuz?" Yuya asked. "Are you up for a duel, or did your skills rust up from all that work in the hospital?"

Yuto took a deep breath and smirked. "Oh please," he told Yuya. "I still duel."

It was true; even though he now works as a doctor, Yuto still found enough time to practice, improve, and strengthen his dueling skills. They usually occur on his days off and his vacations, so he had a nice balance between his job and his duels.

"Alright!" Yuya cheered. "And if the bride is also ready, let's swing into action!"

The two took out and put on their Duel Disks before placing their decks into the deck slots and activating them. Lulu's eyes shifted down to where her activated Duel Disk was. I hope this rewiring still works, she thought. The four shouted "Let's duel!" to signal the start of the Sakaki Spectacular Wedding Engagement Tag Team Duel.

"I'll go first," Lulu decided. "Since my field is absent, I'll summon Lyrilusc -Turquoise Warbler, allowing me to special summon Lyrilusc - Colbalt Sparrow as well! And with Colbalt Sparrow special summoned onto my field, I'll retrieve Lyrilusc - Sapphire Swallow from my deck so I can special summon her and my second Sapphire Swallow from my hand!"

Turqouise Warbler, Colbalt Sparrow, and the two Sapphire Swallows were all summoned and flew onto the field. At this moment, Lulu would XYZ Summon Assembled Nightingale, but after making some modifications to her Duel Disk, this was going to be no ordinary XYZ Summon.

"I overlay with my four Lyriluscs to create the Overlay Network!" Lulu announced.

As the Overlay Network was constructed, a blast of light blue light shot out and expanded throughout Lulu's field, eventually catching her in it…like she intended to. The light then spiraled around her as gusts of wind blew out. Inside, her arm were covered in white and light blue feathers, her legs transformed into bird legs, her long, dark purple ponytail became straight, shoulder-length, and blonde, and her attire for the night was swapped out for what appeared to be her ace's clothes. The light vanished and the wind subsided, and before the three Duelists was no ordinary monster. Lulu wasn't out on the battleground, but she underwent some kind of magical girl transformation and fused with her Assembled Nightingale.

Yuya and Zuzu was completely baffled. "What the heck just happened?!" Yuya asked.

"I have become one with Assembled Nightingale," Lulu said, speaking through Assembled Nightingale. "I wanted to copy mind merges, so made some modifications to my Duel Disk so when I summon my ace, I actually become her."

With her rendition of the mind merge a complete success, Lulu set a card face down and ended her turn, passing it on to Yuto.

"My turn!" Yuto announced. "I draw!" He checked his hand. "I shall start my turn with two face down cards, which I'll activate now! Come forth, dual Phantom Knight of Shine Brigandines!"

The two Trap cards have effects where they can be special summoned in defense position as Level 4 DARK Warrior-Type monsters with 0 ATK and 300 DEF. Since Yuto had no Traps in his Graveyard, their other effects allow them to be activated right away; however, only one can be activated per turn.

"Now I overlay my two Shine Brigandines!" Yuto continued. "Cloaked in shadows and relentless in its objective, I call upon the most dangerous of dragons! I XYZ Summon Dark Rebel-" His eyes widened in realization. "Oh crud."

Once Dark Rebellion XYZ Dragon was finished being summoned onto the field, he was wearing a clown costume. Much to his minor humiliation, Yuto had completely forgot to turn off his Duel Disk's "entertainment mode" because he was so used to the Phantom Knights entertaining the kids. They were the mascots of Phantom Care Hospital, so it would make sense for them to have entertainment modes.

Yuya tried his best to repress a laugh. "What's with the getup?" he asked.

"Sorry," Yuto said. "I didn't want Dark Rebellion to scare little kids at the hospital."

"Aww!" Zuzu gushed. "So your dragon works as a mascot?"

"He does," Yuto answered as he deactivated entertainment mode. "Along with my Phantom Knight monsters."

The clown costume dematerialized from Dark Rebellion and he returned to his normal appearance. "I set two cards face down and end my turn," Yuto concluded.

"Alright!" Yuya exclaimed. "Now it's my turn!" He drew a card. "I'll use Oafdragon Magician and Harmonizing Magician to set the Pendulum Scale! I'm taking control of this duel starting now!"

Oafdragon Magician is a Level 6 Scale 2 WIND Spellcaster-Type Pendulum monster with 2100 ATK and 1400 DEF. Its Pendulum effect allows Yuya to add 1 Magician or Odd-Eyes Pendulum monster from the Extra Deck to his hand except Oafdragon Magician if there's another Magician in the other Pendulum Zone, but it can only be done once per turn. Its monster effect permits him to target a Magician Pendulum monster or Odd-Eyes monster in the Graveyard except Oafdragon Magician and add it to his hand if it was normal or special summoned, but this effect can only be done once per turn.

With his Scale 2 Oafdragon Magician and Scale 8 Harmonizing Magician on their left and right Pendulum Zones respectively, Yuya can summon monsters from Level 3 to Level 7.

"I'm allowed to summon monsters from Levels 3 through 7 all at the same time!" Yuya continued. "Swing far, pendulum! Carve the arc of victory! My monsters are ready...to SWING INTO ACTIOOOOOON!"

The Pendulum "portal" opened up as his selected monsters flew out of it and onto the field. "Turn up the heat, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!" Yuya announced. "Show a whole new world, Performapal Momoncarpet! Give 'em a hand, Performapal Helpprincess! Dazzle and charm, Performapal Whim Witch! And finally, presenting the newest star of the show: Performapal Corgi Pup!"

Performapal Momoncarpet is a Level 3 Scale 7 EARTH Beast-Type Pendulum monster with 1000 ATK and 100 DEF. Its Pendulum effect halves any battle damage Yuya receives, but if there isn't another monster in the Pendulum Zone, it is destroyed. Its monster effect allows the monster to be changed into face-down defense position, which comes in handy thanks to its flip summon effect, where it can target and destroy one set card.

Performapal Helpprincess is a Level 4 DARK Warrior-Type monster with 1200 ATK and DEF. Its effect involves her being special summoned from Yuya's hand if one or more Performapal monster are normal or special summoned except Helpprincess.

Performapal Corgi Pup was very special to Yuya because he had asked Declan to make this in honor of his favorite pet dog En so that his legacy can live on in a Duel Monsters card. It is a Level 2 Scale 4 LIGHT Fairy-Type Pendulum monster with 900 ATK and 750 DEF. It has no monster or Pendulum effects, so it was just a Normal Pendulum card.

"Alright folks, I'll end my turn for now!" Yuya said as he set a card face down. "Back to you, my darling angel!"

Zuzu nodded her head and drew a card to start her turn. She then analyzed the six cards she has before making her move. "If you thought that was an amazing Pendulum Summon, wait 'til you see mine!" she announced. "Presenting my Pendulum Summon with Beetho the Melodious Songstress and Opheli the Melodious Operetta! Get ready for a whole new symphony!"

She loaded the Pendulum Scale with her Scale 1 Beetho and Scale 9 Operetta, meaning she can simultaneously summon monsters on the field from Level 2 to Level 8.

"Fairies of song, lend me your voices!" Zuzu chanted. "Take flight onto the stage in a beautiful harmony! I enact the Pendulum Summon of floral glory!"

As her Pendulum "portal" opened and brought out her selected Melodious monsters, she prepared herself to activate her Skill.

"I activate my Skill: Natural Energy Burst!" she exclaimed.

Not far away from her, a yellow flower opened up its petals and bloomed onto the grass, followed by a red flower, a purple one, a white one, and a blue one until a huge number of flowers blossomed into one floral field. Shortly after that, their natural energy poured out of them and flowed directly to Zuzu's right cheek, causing the En Flowers marking to glow pink as pink flower pedals spiraled around the Pendulum Summoned monsters.

"Come on out, Shopina the Melodious Maestra, Elegy the Melodious Diva, Mozarta the Melodious Maestra, Serenade the Melodious Diva, and Crystal Rose!" Zuzu announced.

Shopina the Melodious Maestra is a Level 7 LIGHT Fairy-Type monster with 2300 ATK and 1700 DEF. Once per turn, she can target and add a LIGHT Fairy-Type monster from the Graveyard to Zuzu's hand, but non-LIGHT monsters are prohibited from being activated on the turn this effect was used.

Elegy the Melodious Diva is a Level 5 LIGHT Fairy-Type monster with 2000 ATK and 1200 DEF. If she was special summoned, all Fairy-Type monsters Zuzu controls gain 300 ATK. Additionally, special summoned Melodious monsters can't be destroyed by card effects.

Serenade the Melodious Diva is a Level 4 LIGHT Fairy-Type monster with 400 ATK and 1900 DEF. When tribute summoning a Fairy-Type monster, she is treated as two tributes. If she was special summoned, she gains the effect once per turn where Zuzu can normal summon a Melodious monster during her Main Phase, in addition to her normal summon/set.

Crystal Rose is a Level 2 LIGHT Rock-Type monster with 500 ATK and DEF. Once per turn, a Gem-Knight or Melodious monster are sent from the hand or deck to the Graveyard to have it become the target's name until the End Phase. If it's in the Graveyard, Zuzu can banish a Fusion Monster from the Graveyard to special summon this monster in defense position, but this effect can also only be done once per turn.

"I activate Elegy's special ability!" Zuzu announced. "All of my Melodious monsters gain 300 extra attack points and they can't be destroyed by card effects!"

Elegy strummed her harp, resulting in a purple aura surrounding her and the other Melodious monsters as they gained 300 ATK and were granted immunity to card effects.

"Now Mozarta, attack Assembled Nightingale!" Zuzu declared. "Graceful Wave!"

"Not so fast!" Lulu exclaimed. "My Dimension Guardian shall protect me from getting sent to the Graveyard!"

Thanks to Dimension Guardian, Assembled Nightingale can't be destroyed by battle or card effects; however, since this is a Continuous Trap card, if she leaves the field, that means it is destroyed and Lulu also leaves the field. Does that mean she too will be sent to the Graveyard if that happens? Whatever's the case, she'll have to be careful.

"Eh... Come again?" Zuzu asked.

"Relax, nothing bad will happen to me," Lulu explained. She lifted up her arm. "This is a costumed hologram. If Assembled Nightingale leaves the field, the hologram surrounding my body will vanish."

That's good to know; she rewired her Duel Disk to not only join in on the mind merge, but to also demonstrate her acting skills. "Thanks for the heads up," Zuzu said as she placed a card face down. "But that doesn't mean I'll go easy on you."

Lulu drew a card from her deck to signal the start of her turn, which was rather odd given that Assembled Nightingale doesn't have hands. "I activate the Spell card Overlay Regen to add another Overlay Unit!" she announced. "Now I shall aim a direct attack on your life points! Graceful Winds!"

With a total of five Overlay Units, she flapped her wings at Zuzu to deal 1000 damage. Normally, she would attack a total of five times and deal a total of 5000 damage due to Assembled Nightingale's effect, but she has something else in mind.

"Upon my direct attack, I play the Quick-Play Spell Lyrilusc - Bird Song to summon my second Turquoise Warbler!" Lulu continued. "Which allows me to call on a Colbalt Sparrow from my hand!"

The second copies of Lulu's selected monsters flew onto the field due to Bird Song and Turquoise Warbler's special summoning effects. "Now I overlay my two Lyriluscs to rebuild the Overlay Network!" she exclaimed. "From the bright skies comes a new melody! The song of countless angels descend from the heavens! I XYZ Summon Lyrilusc - Recital Starling!"

Lyrilusc - Recital Starling soared out of the Overlay Network and landed next to Lulu. She is a Rank 1 WIND Winged Beast-Type XYZ monster with 0 ATK and DEF. When she is XYZ Summoned, she can target a face-up monster on the field to have it gain 300 ATK and DEF for every Overlay Unit attached to it. By detaching an Overlay Unit, a Level 1 Winged Beast monster is added from the deck to Lulu's hand. If the opponent targets this XYZ Summoned card to deal battle damage, they take the same amount of damage.

"Because I already attacked, I'll have to end my turn," Lulu said as she set a card face down.

It was now Yuto's turn and he drew a card before scanning the four cards in his hand plus the drawn card and making his move.

"While you're thinking about your next move, keep in mind about your chemistry with your bride," Yuya suggested.

Yuto was surprised to hear that. "My what?"

"Dueling chemistry," Yuya clarified. "As a married couple, you need to make sure your dueling styles compliment each other perfectly."

Yuto has never heard that term before, let alone see married Duelists have perfect chemistry… Has he? Well, then again, prior to Rin's pregnancy, he has seen her and Yugo's Turbo Duels from time to time whenever he wasn't busy with medical school or work. With him and Lulu now engaged, it was clear they need to make sure they have perfect dueling chemistry as well.

But what was dueling chemistry? Did it mean asking your partner to borrow one of their monsters? Yuto wasn't sure about that. He knew Lulu heavily relied on her Lyriluscs when she duels. If that isn't enough, she would be too stubborn to let him borrow her monsters.

"During my fiancé's turn, I activate my second Dimension Guardian on Dark Rebellion XYZ Dragon!" Lulu announced.

Yuto was surprised by what had happened; thanks to the second Dimension Guardian, Dark Rebellion cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects until he leaves the field. It seems Lulu was quick to understand this dueling chemistry, which Yuto was grateful about thanks to what she had just done. However, he realized this could cause a huge interference in her strategy.

"Don't you need your second Dimension Guardian to protect Recital Starling?" Yuto asked.

"Yes, but I trust you," Lulu answered.

Yuto quickly realized that perfectly dueling chemistry requires an essential trait: trust. Lulu activating her Trap on Dark Rebellion was an example of it because she trusts him. They have known each other for fourteen years and have developed a mutually unbreakable bond with each other; they loved their appearances and personalities, but their iconic quality that defines them is what established their trustworthy relationship into what it is today.

"And I trust you too," Yuto said. He looked back at the field. "I activate Dark Rebellion's special ability! By using one overlay unit, half of Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's strength is transferred to him!"

Dark Rebellion extended his wings and shot out purple lightning at Odd-Eyes, encasing the target in electric, purple rings that drained 1400 ATK from him and added it to the latter's 2500 ATK, raising it up to 3900.

"Now I activate my Skill: Mind Merge!" Yuto continued.

While the duel progressed with Yuto undergoing his Skill, Team Turbo was in a luxurious hotel watching the internationally broadcasted Sakaki Spectacular Tag Team Duel. Since they were in Florida, their was a twenty five hour difference between EST and JST; it was night time in both locations, but New Domino-Heart was one day and one hour ahead of Miami, which was where they were currently at. As they enjoyed the broadcast, Yugo and Rin cuddled close to each other. Ren hasn't been born yet, but his soon-to-be father was quite protective of him and also proud of his wife having their first child.

"'Bout time those two got married!" Crow said.

"I knew it was bound to happen," Rin said. "We're spiritually connected. Even though we've all gone our separate ways, we'll still meet up."

Yugo chuckled. "You're still obsessed over that?" he asked.

"Not as obsessed as you are with our child," Rin replied, stroking her husband's stray dark blue lock near his right cheek.

"Why wouldn't I be obsessed with Ren?" Yugo asked. "He's probably got all our best qualities, a perfect combination of us."

"How'd you figure out the gender?" Shinji asked.

"I called Aura after RinRin told me the good news," Yugo explained. "She used her glass apple and somehow figured out that the child's gonna be a boy. Then she went on to say I shouldn't risk my own health for his happiness, but I'm not sure what that means."

Yugo may have no idea what that means, but Aura knew there would be dire consequences if that happened. In a nutshell, Ren would become involved with a quest to restore power to a God card, but it wasn't one of the three Egyptian God Cards from the alternate timeline. By God, she means G.O.D., which stands for Genesis Omega Dragon, a mysterious card that would decide the future of the world if someone got their hands on it.

"Maybe she's talking about how you tend to put my safety above your own," Rin guessed. "You do tend to get a bit overprotective."

"Since when?" Yugo asked.

"You punched a guy who winked at me," Rin recalled.

"I didn't like how he looked at you," Yugo growled a bit, his eyes flashing light blue.

The flashing light blue eyes was a clear sign of his overprotective behavior; any adult that tries anything smart with Rin, whether it's winking or flirting, always end up with a one-way trip to encountering a jealous Yugo, mainly because he wanted to let them know that she's taken. The main reason why he was protective of her was because he didn't want anything bad happening to her again. She already had to deal with getting kidnapped, brainwashed, and fused back into Ray before having her soul merged with Zuzu's, so he wanted to make sure nothing else as bad—or worse—strikes again. Yuya, Yuto, and Yuri were much like Yugo in terms of protecting the Energy Girls due to similar experiences with the Interdimensional War (except Yuri, who started caring about Celina after the War), but they are always the ones to calm their two husbands and fiancé down.

"Calm down, you moron," Rin said. She gave Yugo a loving kiss on the lips. "I get that you love me, but you have to stop getting angry at every person who tries to flirt with me. Don't you want to be a good father figure for Ren?"

Yugo's eyes stopped glowing. "Of course," he answered, gently placing his hands on Rin's belly. "Anything for our child."

Rin sighed contently, knowing that she relaxed her husband, who was still excited about Ren's upcoming birth. It was one of the cute things she loves about him aside from his cute hair and beautiful yellow eyes. She kissed him again, with Yugo kissing back in response.

"Alright lovebirds, you can kiss later," Crow said. "We still have a tournament to watch."

Back at the tag team duel, Yuto had completed his Skill and unleashed his Battle Phase through Dark Rebellion, in which Yuya retaliated with his Cross Damage face-down card. It was currently Yuya's turn.

"I activate the Spell card Odd-Eyes Fusion!" the tomato-haired man announced. "And I'll fuse my weakened Odd-Eyes with Performapal Momoncarpet! From within the venom comes a new star! A new light awakens from within! I Fusion Summon Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon!"

For the remainder of the duel, the four Duelists gave it their all as Lulu and Yuto increasingly mastered their dueling chemistry, Zuzu presented her controlled usage of No. 52: Diamond Crab King, and displayed newfound monsters they have added to their decks with Yuya. Eventually, the Pendulum couple claimed victory; Yuto and Lulu have amazing strategies, but the main problem is they only work individually, so when the two use their decks to work together, they are weakened.

"Just as I thought," Yuya said as the holographic monsters vanished. "You two might have improved individually, but your time apart weakened you dueling synergy."

"Wait, so this whole duel was a test?" Yuto asked.

"Pretty much," Yuya answered. "A Duelist's deck reflects his or her personality, so their relationships are reflected in tag team duels."

Basically, Yuto's Phantom Knights highlight his noble and chivalrous personality while Lulu's Lyriluscs emphasize how she is sweet and kind yet strong and determined. The two clearly love each other and are willing to do whatever it takes to protect them, especially Yuto; however, what did their teamwork show during the tag team duel? Do they behave differently because they are trying a little too hard to keep one another safe while focusing on vanquishing some kind of threat or defeating an opponent? Whatever the reason is, the engaged XYZ couple felt bad about this test they took. But Yuto wouldn't stand his cousin treating him like this.

"You're wrong," Yuto said. "While it's true Lulu and I never had the chance to develop our dueling synergy, it was because we spent a majority of the relationship developing our individual futures. While she was training to become an actress, I was working on obtaining my medical degree."

"Yeah, but-" Yuya started to say.

"But nothing," Yuto interrupted. "A good relationship does involve trust, but that also means respecting each other's boundaries so your partner feels more comfortable around you. If you don't have that kind of respect, then what's the whole point of being in a relationship with that person?"

What he said just now is a perfect example of what makes him a true knight. A married couple can show trust and respect for each other in a variety of ways besides tag team duels. They have to understand their differences and work out their relationship in a way to illustrate how they genuinely care for each other. And that's exactly what Yuto and Lulu have done. They spent the past ten years apart, but their love was stronger than ever.

Lulu was so touched by her fiancé's words that she walked up to him and hugged him. "That's exactly why I love you, sweet knight," she said, reaching up to touch his cheek.

"Of course," Yuto replied, gently placing his hands on her waist and hugging back. "And I love you too, dearest princess."

Meanwhile, back in the Domino section, the school day had ended and the students have already returned to their assigned dorms. They ate their dinner and hung with their friends or relaxed in the dorm room and watched the tag team duel. Coincidentally, Yuri and Celina also saw what went down between the Pendulum and XYZ couples in the teachers' lounge.

Yuri let out a frustrated sound. "What kind of a duel was that?!" he asked.

"Is something wrong?" Celina asked.

"They were too sappy!" Yuri exclaimed, whining a bit. "I wanted to see more action, not two couples being all lovey-dovey!"

Celina knew exactly what he meant; their relationship was healthy much like their counterparts, but in an…interesting way. When it comes to romance, Yuri wasn't a big fan of the cheesy love stuff that always happens. He likes the thought of having a crush on someone, but it was unlike Yuya's, Yuto's, and Yugo's.

"So you don't like that kind of romance?" Celina asked.

"Of course not," Yuri answered. "I prefer something similar to what we have."

Celina smirked. "Well the students are done for the day," she said, speaking in a suggestive tone. "How about you come with me back to my office? I need to punish you for your rather...impulsive behavior today."

"Oh, so it's one of those nights?" Yuri asked. "Well luckily for you, I know where I left my collar during our last private meeting."

Celina gave Yuri a quick kiss on the lips. "Then you better go get it," she said.

While the two…got it on, Lulu and Yuto arrived at his house after the Sakaki Spectacular concluded. As they got out of the car, she got a good look at how it was constructed; he wasn't kidding when he said it was similar to the house he grew up in. As they walked through the front door and stepped into the living room, they were greeted by the three Cleanroids Yuto mentioned earlier: fashion designer and hair stylist Turquoise, chef Cobalt, house cleaner Sapphire.

"WELCOME HOME, MASTER YUTO," Cobalt said. "I HAVE PREPARED CURRY FOR THIS EVENING'S DINNER."

"Thanks Cobalt," Yuto said.

"MY GOODNESS, WHO IS THIS BEAUTIFUL WOMAN?" Turquoise asked.

"Girls, this is Lulu Obsidian," Yuto introduced. "Lulu, these are my three Cleandroids Cobalt, Sapphire, and Turquoise."

"Aww, they look so cute!" Lulu gushed.

They sure were small and efficient, but the best part was that Cleandroids come in variations in terms of patterns, color schemes, and "hairstyles" to make it easier to tell which one is which. Cobalt was cobalt brown with black gloves, light yellow linings and shoulder-length "hair," and sky blue eyes. Sapphire was sapphire blue with a bob cut "hair" of the same color, white and black linings, and purple eyes. Turquoise was dark metallic yellow green with spiky, light blue "hair," metallic yellow linings, and light blue eyes. Yuto had gotten these because they also made variants based on Duel Monsters and they reminded him of Lulu's three Lyriluscs: Colbalt Sparrow, Sapphire Swallow, and Turquoise Warbler.

"They were custom orders," Yuto explained. "They each have special flight modes. I even downloaded unique personalities into their databanks."

Turquoise flew up to Lulu's face. "DID YOU LIKE WHAT I DESIGNED FOR MASTER YUTO'S EVENING ATTIRE?" she asked. "I EVEN ORDERED A NEW SUPPLY OF SILKY SPIKES AFTER HE USED THE LAST OF HIS CURRENT SUPPLY."

"Silky Spikes?" Lulu asked. "Is that the shampoo brand you have been using?"

"It is," Yuto answered. "It's a cheaper version of Thick and Spiky, but with more visible results."

"I can tell," Lulu said. "Your hair looks much softer."

Even though it wasn't as cheap as Spike and Curl, Silky Spikes doesn't contain the damaging oils like Thick and Spiky. As a result, Yuto's hair wasn't as spiky as it used to be, but it definitely made it softer.

Lulu lifted up her hand. "Can I...?" she started to ask, blushing slightly.

"It's alright," Yuto said, understanding what she was going to say.

Lulu placed her hand on top of Yuto's head, intertwining her fingers through the luscious, light purple and black strands to get a feel for it. Upon contact, she was amazed to know that his hair was indeed soft and obviously softer than it was during his teenage years.

"This is your perfect image," Lulu realized, her hand still stroking his hair.

Yuto closed his eyes and smiled softly. "I understand it," he said. "Having a perfect image is all about working hard to become extraordinary, whether it's looking your best or having a successful job." He opened his golden eyes. "I have reached the same level of perfection that you have."

These few statements bestowed some minor bewilderment to Lulu because the definition of having a perfect image she was taught was to always look your best. Hearing what Yuto explained seemed to have shed some light on it; having a pleasing appearance was essential for everyone and not just elites, but it is not only that. It is the effort put into tasks, the expression of your opinions and beliefs, the responsibility of doing your jobs, the goals that you dream of accomplishing, and the bonds that you create that help define who you are, and quite frankly, Lulu was impressed with what she heard.

Yuto may not be born in a high class society, but he didn't need to be. He has the right motives, a charming personality, tight bonds with his friends, and a healthy relationship with her, in which they all made him into the person he is. Going back to all these years ago, even she can agree with his view on having a perfect image. She became an award-winning actress because of her determined yet stubborn characteristics and connections with her friends, family, and fiancé. They all helped her and looked out for in times of need in assorted ways, whether it is Yuto trying to rescue her from the clutches of Duel Academy or going through her back surgery to remove her spinal plates. She may be raised to maintain beauty no matter what happens, but it doesn't change the fact on what having a perfect image is all about.

"I HATE TO INTERRUPT THIS MOMENT, BUT I DO NOT WANT DINNER TO GET COLD," Cobalt informed.

Blushing heavily, Lulu removed her hand from Yuto's hair. "Sorry," she said.

"So shall we enjoy this meal?" Yuto asked.

"We shall," Lulu replied, linking her arm with Yuto's.

With Yuto leading the way, they walked over to the dining room to have their dinner. Colbalt followed them and then flew over to the kitchen to serve them their curry. It was his second favorite meal for dinner, with Lono's homemade lasagna recipe taking the number one spot.

Yuto and Lulu sat next to each other at the dinner table. "Isn't it nice when you have a robot handle all your meals?" she asked.

"Cobalt doesn't do all the cooking," Yuto clarified. "When she needs to recharge her batteries, I cook my own meals."

Lulu was surprised. "You have a Cleandroid who cooks for you, yet you still cook?" she asked. "That seems a bit weird."

Since she grew up in a home with robot maids that do stuff for you like sewing clothes, trimming hair, giving spa treatments, and cooking food, she wasn't exactly wrong. Aside from managing her own hair, she was so used to robots providing basic necessities.

"DINNER IS SERVED," Cobalt said, handing out two plates of curry to the engaged couple. "MAY I PROVIDE YOU WITH THE APPROPRIATE MOOD?"

Yuto blushed. "Not tonight," he answered.

"VERY WELL," Cobalt said. "ENJOY YOUR MEAL." She then soared through the house to join with Turquoise and Sapphire while Yuto and Lulu ate their dinner.

A few minutes later, Lulu finally spoke. "This feels...oddly comfortable."

"How so?" Yuto asked after finishing a spoonful of curry.

"We're eating a meal with peace and quiet," Lulu answered. "I'm so used to people asking for autographs and pictures that I kind of miss the quiet atmosphere."

"But I already planned everything out," Yuto said. "Since you're going back to your life as a famed actress, I'm going to stay here in New Domino-Heart and raise our adopted child. I promise to e-mail pictures of our child so you won't miss any of his or her big milestones."

Lulu dropped her spoon onto her plate. "Adopted child?" she repeated.

"I heard about celebrity couples in the media," Yuto clarified. "I want to make sure our relationship lasts longer than theirs. And if we consider adoption, you won't have to worry about ruining your perfect body."

Lulu wasn't sure how to react to this, but she was heartbroken and a little scared. Starting a family through adoption? With Yuto raising the child for the both of them? She has seen the news countless times on how well Rin was handling her pregnancy; she was capable of managing it too, but she couldn't help but have second thoughts about having kids.

"Oh Yuto..." Lulu said, sounding a bit sad. "I don't want you to end up with that burden."

"But you're an actress," Yuto pointed out.

"And I don't care," Lulu said. She held Yuto's hand. "If we're going to have kids, let me be a part of it. I want to experience the joys of being a mother, especially being pregnant."

"Even if it could ruin your figure?" Yuto asked.

"I'm an Obsidian," Lulu answered. "I'll be able to regain my figure after giving birth."

This was going to be a challenge unlike the past ones they faced. If she wanted to have a child, that meant she was going to take a break from acting, but for how long? Does she have to go on maternity leave until she can come back? What about movies that are interested in having her in the cast? This was something they both knew was going to happen.

"What about your career?" Yuto asked. "I heard a lot of filmmakers and directors were thinking about hiring you. And with you winning an Academy Prize, that number is bound to increase."

"I know," Lulu said. "And I love being an actress. It has been my lifelong dream."

"But what about our child?" Yuto asked. "I don't want the media to interfere with his or her life."

Lulu remained silent, realizing this decision could cause some problems. "Maybe this was a mistake," she said after having a spoonful of curry. "Maybe your proposal was a bad idea."

"No, of course not," Yuto disagreed. "I want to marry you. I can never find another woman as lovely and perfect as you."

"Then how can we work things out?" Lulu asked. "I want to make sure this decision is a step forward for the both of us."

Yuto had a sudden idea. "Why don't you come with me to work tomorrow?" he asked. "A few girls who heard about our engagement asked me if I was dating Princess Kaguya, and I was hoping if you would like to meet them."

Lulu raised her head up to face Yuto, feeling thunderstruck by the idea. She remembered playing that character a few movies ago and having the kids meet Princess Kaguya was much like how she stayed in-character as a princess during her duel against Allie.

"You really want me to visit young girls in the hospital as Princess Kaguya?" she asked.

"Of course," Yuto answered. "Especially a girl named Lillian Shadows. She's slowly dying of severe heart cancer, so she was hoping Princess Kaguya could take her to the moon."

Lulu understood what that meant. "Tomorrow is her last day," she realized.

She immediately felt bad for the Shadows family because time was running out for Lillian. The poor girl must have seen the movie prior to her news about how she won't make it and loved the movie so much. Her relatives were most likely going to be at the health clinic tomorrow to spend their last hours together, so coming in-character as Princess Kaguya would be an extraordinary deed for them.

"Very well," Lulu said. "I'll visit her tomorrow."

"Thank you, princess," Yuto said. "I'm sure you'll put a smile on her face."

The next day, they arrived at Phantom Care Hospital for another day at work for Yuto (who wore a white coat for work), except it was more unique than most days. Lulu entered the building dressed up as Princess Kaguya to surprise the young kids, especially Lillian.

"Greetings Phantom Care Hospital!" Lulu announced. "I, the moon princess Kaguya, wish to speak to the head of this hospital! I heard someone wishes to speak to me about an urgent matter."

Yuto heard Lulu's announcement from one end of a hallway and walked towards the main lobby to speak to her. "There you are, Princess Kaguya," he said, playing along. "Now if you could just come with me, I- MMPH!"

His sentence was interrupted as Lulu leaned forward and kissed him on the lips. The kiss was brief, but full of loving emotion. "My apologies," she said, staying in-character. "I have never seen a man as handsome as you. Had I met you before I returned to my true home, you would have been a perfect match for myself."

Yuto slightly blushed at the comment before clearing his throat and explaining to her to follow her as he talks about Lillian's current status and what room she was in. "Lillian Shadows is suffering from severe heart cancer," he explained. "Today is her last day, but it seems not even the resident mascots can cheer her up. I want you to make sure she goes out with a smile."

"Of course, I can help," Lulu replied. "Anything for a maiden in need."

Fortunately, Lillian's room was on the first floor, so they didn't need to take an elevator or the stairs. They stopped just outside of her doorway so that Yuto can instruct Lulu to wait for a few seconds; he wanted to make this a special surprise for the Shadows family. She obliged as he stepped inside to see her parents and her two older siblings—one brother and one sister—gathered around Lillian, who was sickly frail. A few strands of her dark silvery blue hair were in front of her face as her scarlet eyes were struggling to stay open; time was ticking by, so Yuto and Lulu better make it count.

"Hello Mr. and Mrs. Shadows," Yuto said. "I brought someone who can help calm your daughter down."

"Is it another mascot?" Mrs. Shadows asked.

"Not quite," Yuto answered. He walked over to Lillian. "Lillian, remember when you asked me if I knew Princess Kaguya?"

"Y-Yes, Dr. Osaku," Lillian answered.

"Well I called the people of the moon if she could take you back to her home," Yuto explained. "And now she's here to fulfill her promise."

That was Lulu's cue to step into the room to see Lillian. She got into character and walked in so that she may speak to the young girl. "Greetings!" she happily said. "I am the great moon princess Kaguya!"

Although Lillian's body was severely weakened due to her heart tumor, it didn't prevent her from smiling as her eyes met Lulu's. Her dream of meeting Princess Kaguya was coming true. "Princess Kaguya!" she exclaimed. "It's actually you!"

"Of course it is, young maiden," Lulu said. "My people informed me that you wish to go to the moon."

"I do," Lillian said. "The doctors said I might not live much longer, but the moon people are immortal. If I go to the moon, could I end up with that same mortality?"

"I believe so," Lulu answered.

Yuto left the room to give his fiancé some time to spend with Lillian and stayed in the hallway, not far from where everyone else was. He arranged this in order to help Lulu get used to being near young kids. He knew she was having doubts regarding being a good parent, so he figured this would be a good starting point.

For the next few hours, Lulu accompanied Lillian and her family as they discussed about Princess Kaguya's life on the moon and shared some of the Shadows' stories. She may be acting out as the moon princess, but deep down, she was feeling like she was forming a connection with everyone, even the bedridden girl.

Eventually Lillian started to get tired. "Princess Kaguya..." she said. "Promise me the moon people will like me?"

Lulu kissed the girl on the forehead. "Don't worry," she said. "I promise that you will have an amazing time on the moon."

Lillian smiled weakly. "Thank you..."

Lulu gently held Lillian's hand as she started to close her eyes, feeling the last amount of life she had left diminishing. As her eyelids slowly shut, a white light faded in through the barely noticeable openings, giving her increasingly soulless, scarlet eyes a glance at what it's like to go to the afterlife. Maybe it was for the best that she might not last much longer; her wish was finally becoming a reality. She was going to be with the moon people for all eternity…

BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE…

The sound of a flatline emitted from the heart monitor and echoed in the silent and somber room. She was gone. A juvenile and innocent girl had her life taken away from her as she succumbed to her heart cancer. Her lifeless face revealed a smile had managed to form completely with what little strength she had left as her last few seconds had just ticked by. Her wish came true. She got to meet Princess Kaguya and was heading to the moon to live among its people…forever…

"Thank you, Ms. Obsidian," Mr. Shadows said. "Our daughter loved your movie so much. Meeting you was on her bucket list."

"I'm glad I could help," Lulu said. Within her mind, something rang that made her realize something. She may actually be good with kids and her time with Lillian proved it.

Yuto entered the room. "Would you like to visit the other patients?" he asked Lulu.

"Certainly," Lulu answered, her smile having become brighter. As she walked out of the room and gave out her condolences to the Shadows family, she followed Yuto and was informed on what floors and rooms the children were on so that she can visit them. She also couldn't help but think that maybe it was a good idea to start a family of their own. She's not sure when they should start since their wedding is coming up, but she does miss the leisure and peace after spending years of being famous, signing autographs, taking part in interviews, and enjoying the spotlight. Perhaps after they get married, they'll figure out a plan.

"So what happened while I was away?" Lulu asked.

"Not a lot," Yuto answered. "Allie took over as the new principal of the You Show Duel School. Your duel with her changed her. She even managed to grow her hair out to match your hair."

After the Team Duel Tournament, Allie has started idolizing Lulu for more than just her being a real life princess. Overtime, she outgrew that phase and has respected her as a powerful and strong Duelist. But that didn't stop her from growing out her hair to be as long as Lulu's.

"Allie became the new principal of that dueling school?" Lulu asked.

Yuto nodded in response. "Riley is her best student," he continued. "Moon Shadow raised her well. Not only is she a skilled Duelist, but she already has dreams of being a photographer."

Riley—who was now 14 years old—had passed her Ninjitsu training with Moon Shadow and Sun Shadow as she was growing up, learning how to use her C/C monsters as weapons. With her having mastered those skills, she transferred to You Show Duel School, where she has been utilizing what she learned through Dueltainment, making her the first Ninjitsu Dueltainer. Yuto was also right about her wanting to become a photographer because she tends to analyze the opposing monsters' postures and have them readjust their poses almost like they're in a photo shoot.

"That sounds amazing," Lulu said. "I have to see her duel some day."

"You can do that later," Yuto said. "Right now, you have hospital patients to visit."

"Of course," Lulu replied. "I can wait, sweet knight."

A few days later, after her visiting the kids, Yuto and Lulu's wedding has finally arrived. It was a momentous occasion for their friends, families, and loved ones, whom were all invited: the Sakakis (including Sora), the Obsidians, Yuri and Celina Akaba, the Arclights, the Katherines, and the former dueling club. Even though Yugo and Rin were still in America, Yuya had set up his Duel Disk to have them watch the wedding through the webcam app. And given Lulu's reputation as Japan's number one sweetheart, the whole wedding was televised.

"Howdy folks!" Melissa announced. "The day of Yuto Osaku and Lulu Obsidian's wedding has finally arrived! Rumor has it that the famed actress' folks planned out the whole ceremony, and I'm certain this is gonna be a wondrous event."

In the groom's dressing room, Yuto was almost done getting ready for the big event and the biggest moment of his life. He was wearing a black suit with the jacket left unbuttoned, revealing his long-sleeved, white shirt that had the collar tied with a white bowtie, and a pair of black shoes. He was taking a look in the mirror to see if his hair needed any touching up when he heard a knock on the door.

"Lulu, you know it's bad luck for me to see you before the wedding," Yuto said.

"It's not Lulu," a voice said from outside. "It's me, Aura Sentia."

Yuto turned around towards the door and notified her to come in, with the young woman opening the door and entering the room. She most likely had something important to say.

"You're crying," Aura said, noticing the groom's tear-stained face.

"What?" Yuto asked. "No, I'm not."

"Is this about your mother?" Aura asked.

"I told you, I'm not crying," Yuto repeated. "It's not like this is the biggest change in my life and-" A sob escaped his throat.

"Just as I thought," Aura said. "You wish your mother was still alive to see you marry the love of your life."

Can you blame him? He hasn't seen Lono in over a decade, so besides graduating from both Heartand Duel School and medical school, as well as opening his own hospital, this was one of those moments when he wished she was alive. This one, in particular, had him showing difficulty of holding back his tears and sobs because that is how important the wedding is; heck, it's being broadcasted on every television because that's how memorable it's going to be!

"That's why I had to speak to you beforehand," Aura said. "I have a message for you."

Yuto tried to regain his composure. "What kind of message?" he asked.

Aura brought out her crystal apple and held it up to Yuto. "This message," she answered as the apple started glowing purple.

"Yuto, I'm so proud of how much you accomplished. I've been watching you from the sky and I saw you grow up into a handsome man. I know I haven't seen you since the night of the school dance, but look at you! It seems like it was only yesterday I found you in the alleyway with that strange-looking dragon card and some sparkling dust in your hair. Now you're about to marry the love of your life. I love you so much, and I wish you best of luck with your new life as a married man."

Yuto stood motionless and speechless as he heard Lono speak through the crystal apple. It has been too long since she last spoke to him, so hearing her voice again for the first time in years was truly heartfelt. What made this even more touching was when she mentioned the dust sparkled onto his hair, making him understand that he really was the miracle child described in Close to You by The Carpenters; Lulu's comparisons were actually explicit indicators that they were destined to be together after all.

"She was right," Yuto mused. "Those angels actually made me the miracle child."

"Miracle child?" Aura repeated.

"It's from the song Lulu and I like so much," Yuto explained. "The lyrics mentioned that when a child was born, a group of angels turned that child into a prophesied miracle child by sprinkling moon dust in his hair and planting starlights into his eyes."

"Wait, are you referring to that Carpenters song from many years ago?" Aura asked. She thought about this for two seconds. "That would explain why you ended up becoming the handsome one among your counterparts."

Yuto nodded in response to the question before stopping to realize that she may be right about him being the handsome Yu-counterpart. He was complimented multiple times by Lulu on how charming he always looked. But that wasn't all. Despite having similar faces and voices, he was the only Yu-counterpart whose natural charm made a lot of women attracted to him.

"Yuto, what's taking so long?"

Out in the doorway stood Yuya, wondering when his cousin will be finished because the wedding was starting in a little bit. After all, due to the cousins making a promise fourteen years ago, Yuya was the best man.

"Sorry," Yuto said. "Aura was just showing me a message from my mom."

"That's a relief," Yuya said. "I was starting to wonder if you were getting cold feet."

Well…a certain someone was getting cold feet and she had every right to. Lulu couldn't believe she was going to marry Yuto and this wasn't a dream. Was it? She was pondering if this was a dream because she has made it this far in her life and the last thing she needed was to wake up fused back into Zuzu, Celina, and Rin and have everything that had occurred starting with the morning of the LID dance seem like it never happened at all. She stood in front of a tall mirror to help reassure her that this wasn't a dream. She donned a super long, strapless, white dress with a light blue ribbon tied below her breasts, a pair of white heeled sandals with jewel-encrusted straps on it, diamond dangle earrings, and had her hair tied into her signature bow-shaped style with a wavy, white ribbon containing two whitish-purple feathers attached to it.

Lillybot entered the room, but as soon as she saw Lulu, she freaked out. "YOU LOOK SO BEAUTIFUL AND GROWN UP," she said. "WHAT HAPPENED TO THE INFANT GIRL I HELPED RAISE?"

Lulu let out a small, polite laugh. "Calm down," she said, approaching Lillybot and giving her a basket of flower petals. "I don't need you to short-circuit before the wedding."

"MY APOLOGIES," Lillybot said. "BUT I HAVE NEVER SEEN YOU THIS BEAUTIFUL."

Lulu smiled at Lillybot's comment on how elegant she was. She was born with natural beauty and has retained it for the entirety of her life, so having on one of the finest wedding dresses and accessories was a big deal.

"DO YOU NEED HELP WITH YOUR WEDDING CHECKLIST?" Lillybot asked.

"Of course," Lulu answered. She checked her reflection once more. "Something old: mother's wedding dress. Something new: my shoes. Something borrowed: Cathy's hairpiece. Something blue: the added ribbon to the wedding dress."

"WHAT ABOUT THE SILVER SIXPENCE IN YOUR SHOE?" Lillybot asked.

"It's already taken care of," Lulu answered, pointing to her left heel.

Lillybot shifted her robotic eyes to the left heel where the sixpence was and her installed checklist program marked it down as the fifth item needed for the heiress' wedding. At that point, bridesmaids Cathy and Sarah arrived.

"My goodness, Lulu. You look absolutely perfect!" Cathy remarked.

"No kidding," Sarah said. "I've never seen you look this fancy."

Lulu thanked her friends for the comments and mentioned how they were also remarkably dressed for today as well. There was only a few minutes left before the wedding could officially begin, so the three girls waited for Kameron to bring the heiress down the aisle.

"Remember, Lulu," Cathy said. "Yuto is handsome and perfect, and soon the whole world is going to see him. You should be happy."

"I know," Lulu said. She let out a sad sigh. "But I can't believe this is actually happening. What if this is all just a dream?"

"Aw, don't say that!" Cathy cheerfully said.

However, Sarah knew what Lulu's question meant. "You're worried you might wake up and everything that happened to you over the past fourteen years never actually happened," she said.

Lulu didn't say anything, but her head nodding "Yes" was the only response she could muster up.

"I can't believe it either," Sarah said. "With our home being instantly restored, it's hard to believe how any of this could happen. But we can't stay so focused on those thoughts. We should focus on how fortunate we are."

"I know," Lulu said. She looked at her well-manicured hand. "But I still have memories of watching my own hand fading."

She never forgot those traumatizing events: Duel Academy bombing Heartland City, Yuri kidnapping her, the Doktor brainwashing her into using Fusion Summoning, transported into ARC-V to fuse back into Ray. She wished she could forget them yet they were burned into her brain, scarred by the unbearable struggles and the horrifying nightmarish hell she was forced to endure. She went from barely escaping a tragic fate to being manipulated like a puppet…tangled in strings…suffocating…

"Don't you dare say that!" Sarah said. "I saw you getting kidnapped, but I know you. You probably challenged Yuri to a duel, didn't you?"

"Of course," Lulu answered.

"So you're still the same stubborn person from before the Invasion," Sarah said. "I had a feeling you wouldn't go down without a fight."

Yep, Lulu did challenge Yuri to a duel; when he pursued her, she reached a dead end among the ruins, so having nowhere to go, she decided to tackle him head on. It was one of her many examples of her displaying her usual determined stubbornness.

"Thanks Sarah," Lulu said, a soft smile reappearing on her face.

"There's my beloved daughter."

Standing in front of the doorway and behind the ladies was Kameron, meaning the wedding was going to start momentarily.

"Hello father," Lulu said with a curtesy.

"After all these years, you still maintain your perfect image," Kameron remarked.

"Of course, father," Lulu said. "You and mother have raised me well."

Kameron was proud to hear that from her; he and Astra raised her to be presentable and suitable in an elite environment while also gave her love and compassion like good parents. As a result, she became not only the most feminine out of all her counterparts, but also a respectable, lovely, sweet, caring, and beautiful lady.

"THE WEDDING IS ABOUT TO BEGIN," Lillybot said, carrying the basket of flower petals. "WE CANNOT BE LATE."

"Thank you Lillybot," Lulu said.

"Ready to begin your new life as an Osaku?" Kameron asked.

"Indeed, father," Lulu answered. "But I will still remain an Obsidian by blood."

Taking and holding her hand, Kameron and Lulu exited the dressing room with Cathy, Sarah, and Lillybot following suit. They all walked down a few hallways towards the altar's entrance with the bride's personal assistant leading the way because she was the flower girl.

Meanwhile, Yuto and Yuya were already at the altar alongside Orbital, who was going to be the ring bearer, waiting for the bride to appear and head down the aisle. However, Yuto realized this was exactly what Ishizu showed him. She must have known everything that would lead to this very moment. In other words, he shouldn't have worried about choosing between his dream job and his dream girl. He was able to obtain both.

The future that Ishizu predicted became more evident that it was coming true as the double door's opened up. Lillybot wheeled her way down the aisle, tossing flower petals onto the floor to provide a regal pathway for Lulu and the accompanying Kameron, Cathy, and Sarah as someone played music on the organ. Everything that he witnessed in his vision was unfolding right in front of his eyes up to the point where he can't find the right words to think of.

Just like when he first met Lulu, Yuto's eyes were wide open and his mouth was slightly agape. The younger heiress looked absolutely beautiful, even moreso than before. He couldn't believe this was actually happening to him, especially on live television. Not only was he going to marry his long-term girlfriend, but he was also going to get married into the Obsidian family. It helped that being the head of Phantom Care Hospital provided a nice amount of wealth and he was able to develop his very own perfect image. Overall, he was able to get the looks and money for being accepted into the rich and elite despite his commoner upbringing.

Lulu reached the altar where she met up with Yuto while Kameron, Cathy, and Sarah stood off to the side not too distant from her, much like Yuya and Orbital. The organ music ended as the priest walked up and positioned himself at a perpendicular spot from the bride and groom. Just as he was about to start the ceremony, a pained scream was heard from Yuya's Duel Disk and echoed all over the church room.

"I'm so sorry Yoot, but it looks like Ren's comin' early, so we halfta go. Bye!" Yugo said, speaking rapidly before disconnecting the connection.

Awkward silence filled the room; the counterparts were amazed that Yugo and Rin's child was going to be born, but they were more shocked that there were two special occasions going on at the same day, catching everyone by surprise. No one was expecting Rin to go into labor and neither was Team Turbo. Yuya slowly left the altar and picked up the pace as he went towards where his Duel Disk was, took it off the tripod, turned it off, and went back to where he was.

"As I was saying," the priest said. "Welcome and thank you for being here on this important day. We are gathered together to celebrate the very special love between Miss Lulu of the Obsidian family and Yuto Osaku, by joining them in marriage. Lulu and Yuto, your marriage today is the public and legal joining of your souls that have already been united as one in your hearts. Marriage will allow you a new environment to share your lives together, standing together to face life and the world, hand-in-hand. Marriage is going to expand you as individuals, define you as a couple, and deepen your love for one another. To be successful, you will need strength, courage, patience, and a really good sense of humor. So, let your marriage be a time of waking each morning and falling in love with each other all over again."

After the priest was done addressing his reminder of the significance of marriage, Lulu and Yuto exchanged their vows to one another.

"This man, I marry," Lulu said, reciting traditional Japanese wedding vows. "No matter what the health situation is, I will love this person, respect this person, console this person, and help this person until death protecting fidelity, I swear."

Yuto was expecting her to write down her own vows and recite them to him, so hearing her state the Japanese wedding vows was rather out of the blue. Regardless, it was now his turn to say his own promises.

"Lulu Obsidian, when I was younger, my mom would read fairytales to me before I went to sleep," Yuto said. "But out of all of the fairytales, my favorite was the story of Rapunzel, a princess with beautiful long hair. And every time my mom read that story to me, I envisioned what I thought the princess looked like: a lovely girl with sparkling purple eyes and long, silky red hair. I loved that story so much that I wanted to find the princess of my dreams and marry her.

"But then I met you, and I was absolutely amazed. I realized the beautiful girl standing before me was far more prettier than my visions of Rapunzel. That was when I fell in love with you. Because when I met you, I also met my Rapunzel. But now, I don't care what you look like. You're the only person I truly love. No other woman is as amazing as you. And with this new chapter of our lives, I promise to stay a loving husband and a wonderful father."

Lulu smiled and tried her best not to tear up from the astonishing words that Yuto explained. With their vows exchanged, Orbital headed towards the priest, carrying a pillow with their wedding rings. "These rings represent the vows and promises you have exchanged," the priest said. "Upon putting them on, they will signify to the world that you belong to someone special and someone special belongs to you."

These rings were no ordinary wedding rings; they were custom made, with Yuto's resembling Dark Rebellion by being black with blue-green stones and Lulu's having the same design as her old bracelet. They took each other's ring to exchange and said, "With this ring, I thee wed," as they put them on their fingers.

"Yuto Osaku, do you take Ms. Obsidian to be your beloved wife in sickness and in health 'til death do you part?" the priest asked.

Yuto looked at Lulu straight in the eye, his thoughts shifting towards how he nearly lost her to Duel Academy and that he never wanted to see her suffer again. "I do," he answered.

"And Lulu Obsidian, do you take Dr. Osaku to be your beloved husband in sickness and in health 'til death do you part?" the priest asked.

Lulu suddenly thought about how she nearly lost him forever due to the darkness from Zarc's heart, not wanting him to suffer like that again. "I do," she answered.

"And so, by the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife," the priest said.

The newly wed couple embraced each other in a loving kiss as everyone in the church room applauded. A few seconds later, the two parted.

"How does feel being Mrs. Lulu Osaku?" Yuto asked.

"Amazing," Lulu answered. "I love you so much."

"I love you too," Yuto replied before kissing her again.

The priest gave out his closing remarks to the Osakus and everyone who attended the wedding before concluding another successful wedding. The recessional then began as Yuto and Lulu exited through the double doors and walked down the pathway towards their limousine, receiving massively positive reception from everyone that watched it on television as they got out of their houses and cheered and clapped for them. The limo driver opened the door to let the two into the back seats, shutting it behind them, returning to his seat, and driving them to the after-party. Down the road were tin cans attached to the limo and dangling on the road along with a sign saying "Just married". Their friends and families got into their cars and drove the same path as to where they left the church, creating a single row of cars to let everyone know they took part in a special event and were heading somewhere else to celebrate.

This wasn't the end of the counterparts' adventures. It was just the beginning of their brand new lives...

The End

[mitsuhasnolifebutwatchesanime]

Grave of the Fireflies- 1988 film by Isao Takahata. Grave of the Fireflies is available to purchase from your local retailers (mostly online, so be warned), please support the industry by buying a physical copy. Click above to watch a trailer for Grave of the Fireflies.

I went through my tags the other day and found a tag on a Grave of the Fireflies post that said “I’ll watch this by the end of the year,” which was posted in 2015. Whoops. I’ve been putting off this movie for years, and for good reason. It wasn’t until a few days ago (note I’m writing this pretty far in advance, so a few *weeks ago*) that I had a hankering for catharsis. I’m stressed, it’s finals season, I’m in a lull physically and emotionally, but I just needed to cry out some stress in private. I went store hopping to find the ONE MOVIE that could destroy me and make it okay. No store had it. So on the way home from a failed mission, I got caught in a hail storm, had to pull over, and cried like a bitch in a strangers driveway for an hour.

I bought the movie the next day from the one and only anime retailer in Oklahoma, One Stop Anime. If you’ve never been there and Norman isn’t too hard of a drive for you (I go to university there, so it’s not too out of my way), they have a great selection of anime series and movies, new and old. They also special order stuff, so they’re very reliable. This isn’t a paid plug or anything, I’m just so grateful I called them, they had the movie, and I could get it the day after the SHIT STORM that was going to Vintage Stock, Target, Best Buy, and a very frustrating phone call with Walmart. It would also be great if our local entertainment giant, Hastings, hadn’t gone out of business, but it really had been a while since I went to One Stop Anime, and I was very grateful.

Moving on from my rant, let’s talk about the sad because I can’t put it off much longer. Grave of the Fireflies was released as a double feature with My Neighbor Tototro, and while it’s famous (or infamous if you prefer) for being a beautiful, emotionally hefty story of family and survival…kind of, it flopped in Japan at the time.

The story follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko…after the day Seita dies, alone in a train station. I always knew the first line of this movie “September 21, 1945, the day I died.” Seita’s spirit joins his sisters as they ride a train of memories back to where it started. Where they lose their mom, their home, their ability to get food, and eventually, their lives in war-stricken Japan.

Despite its horrifically brutal beginning, and ending…and some of the middle too, Grave of the Fireflies somehow is beautifully uplifting. There are places where hope is brought up, where childish delights are still saved in the face of the grim reaper. There are small details that make the siblings truly believable and empathetic protagonists.

It’s also a studio Ghibli film, so of course the animation is amazing. The details that go into the sequences, backgrounds, sounds, and lightning are so masterfully done. It’s probably one of the most artistic Ghibli movies ever made, which is a shame since it’s so damn devastating. Did I cry? Nah, actually. I think I dried myself on the breakdown the day before, so I just kinda sat there getting a cry headache and feeling the pain in my chest and stomach every five minutes. I teared up a little, but I wasn’t the sobbing mess I was at Your Name. It might be because I knew what I was getting into.

Despite knowing what was to come, the journey was still one I’m glad I could take. I’m glad I got to see this movie, and it probably would have been even better to see it with others in theaters, but it’s not bad seeing it alone, curled up with a box of tissues at the ready, covered in blankets, or maybe with someone you love. It’s an emotional movie which is very worth watching before Totoro so you can heal a little afterwards, if that makes sense.

[abbyinkorea]

Hello again! It’s been a few days! Let me say, a LOT has happened the past few days. Stay tuned for a few blog posts about my adventures since coming to SEOUL!! So Sunday morning I got all packed up my cousin Dal-ah and I went out for brunch on our way from Incheon to Seoul. We both had a variation of a European style breakfast. Mine was the waffle option with eggs, bacon and (amazing) sausage, croissant-like waffles, french fries, whipped cream, and salad (???) And I ate everything on my plate except the onion. It was so good lol. Also Dal-ah got us americanos, which was actually my first americano! Wee! While eating, I was talking with Dal-ah and found out that the drama Doctor Stranger was filmed at her hospital and that she met Lee Jong Suk and Park Hae Jin 😆 I freaked out a little bit lol. Then we headed for Seoul. Apparently the cherry blossoms had only bloomed in the south so far, so that was out for the day, which I didn’t mind so much, I just didn’t want to miss them!  During the drive, we listened to B1A4 because I had just been telling Dal-ah how much I like them. Then we picked up her friend Kwangja whom she had been telling me about. He’s actually famous on social media. And recently also did commercials for Lotteria. So there’s that lol. I was really shy at first, I didn’t say much in the car ride after that lolll. But he was really nice so as time went on I got more comfortable. We got to Itaewon and walked around for a while, going into different fancy stores that I would have never gone into if I were by myself, like perfume stores and over-priced clothes. Just being in the stores made me feel like I was gonna break something and owe hundreds of dollars. Then we we went to get something yummy. We ended up at a chocolate store and got some iced chocolate drink? I guess you could call it a chocolate shake, but it was pretty fancy, and very delicious, though I was still full from brunch! So I couldn’t finish it... Kwangja and I talked about social media, and fans and video views and it was pretty great talking to someone who knows about that stuff! 😊 Next we went to the LINE store which was amazing. SO MANY CUTE THINGS. We walked around, took pictures, and it was super fun. I didn’t get anything myself though because I wanted to save money lol. After that we headed out to find the restaurant we were going to. It was called My Sky and owned by Hong Seok Chun, a famous Korean actor. It was kinda exclusive lol. We took a teeny tiny elevator that barely fit the three of us up, and went into the dining room. First off, the interior was gorgeous. The view was also gorgeous. And also, Hong Seok Chun was there. And also JoKwon was there LOLLL. I was like oh my goshhhhhhh. And then didn’t look at him for the rest of the time cuz I didn’t wanna be a creep 😂 I was taking a lot of pictures out the window, and then a waiter came up and asked what app I was using lol. It is a really good app for pictures though. Pro HDR X 👌🏻 I still didn’t feel very hungry, probably just from excitement so i didn’t know what I wanted to eat. But we ordered a quinoa salad and pizza and a thing with corn chips and beef and it was so good that I ended up eating quite a bit lol. We interrupted our meal and went up to the rooftop to see the view and take some pictures before it got dark. You could see Namsan tower, and the view was just beautiful. Hong Seok Chun came up and was talking to us for a bit and we took a picture together. Then we came back down and finished eating, and got some drinks. I tried a caramel macchiato (I swear if I didn’t work at Starbucks I would have never ordered one lol) and it was really really good. The top if it was sweet, and the drink itself was just right. We sat and talked for a bit, and Dal-ah gave us each a handkerchief that she bought at the LINE store ❤️ By now I became very fond of these two people with me ☺️ I think being with them kind of made me feel like I was the baby sister again, being taken care of and bought dinner. And without realizing it I had been acting like my silly little sister baby self lol. It was familiar and comfortable. I’m really grateful for them looking after me for the day. It was a reminder that I’m really not alone here. God is good. Anyway, we finished up, and I used the restroom which was GORGEOUS. The nicest restroom I have ever seen lol, not even kidding. Though I didn’t have my phone with me so I couldn’t take pictures. Then went up to the roof one more time to take pictures and again, the view was just the best. Namsan tower was all lit up, and the city lights were gorgeous. Then we started heading back to where our car was parked. I didn’t bring my jacket so by now it was pretty chilly, but I survived lol. We stopped in at LUSH cosmetics for a few minutes and then continued on our way. I was telling stupid jokes, and stopping to take pictures every once in a while. Then we were back in the car, and off to my goshiwon/hostel!! weeee! We got there and Kwangja and I took care of my bags while Dal-ah went to park. Buuuut guess what? There was no elevator 😂 We had to lug my two large, heavy suitcases and two other bags up the stairs, to the 4th floor. We were ridiculous lol but we did it. Getting them back down is gonna be another whole issue, but I’ll think about that a few weeks from now 😂 Dal-ah came and talked to the desk woman for me, and helped explain things and how things worked, paid the rest for my room, and got everything settled. Then she and Kwangja were off, and it was just me. I sat in my room looking around. It’s the tiniest room I’ve ever been in lol. I can’t open my suitcase all the way unless it’s on my bed. But it will suit me nicely. It has a shower, a fridge, desk, a tv, a window and some cupboards. And bonus points for having everything within arm’s reach haha. Though the bathroom is down the hall, and the kitchen is down a floor. I went to sleep pretty soon after I got here, because I had my first Korean class in the morning, plus, I was just super tired after a long exciting day. So I slept, but woke up again at 3:00am. I’ll sleep through the night here eventually lol. But fell back asleep, and woke up again. My first day waking up in Seoul. Ready for whatever adventures would occur. Check out my other posts for more pictures from today!

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