#(That and also the fact the computer in question heats up when 2 windows are open)

[beearcheops]

project eden's garden memes/screenshots cuz I finished watching ch 1

bonus screenshot that I forgot

[jaskiers-sweetkiss]

The Mercer Legacy - Part 3

Pairings: Luke x Reggie x Reader, willex

Word Count: 1.8K

Warnings: some swearing

A/N: yay part 3!!! I just wanna say thank you for all your comments and support, you guys make writing this so much fun!! I’m posting this part on my phone so I apologize in advance if anything is messed up, I usually post from my computer. As always lmk what you think and message me/send an ask if you’d like to be added to my taglist!!

Part 2 Masterlist TML Masterlist

___

You put up with Alex’s knowing looks and disappointed smiles whenever you were with the boys or he caught you smiling down at your phone. At least he was kind enough not to say anything again.

So maybe you had developed teensy weensy crush on Luke and Reggie, it’s not like it’s hard when they’re both so pretty and charismatic and kind and talented. Alex was no help either. With him sneaking off more and more to spend time with Willie, who else were you going to hang out with?

A tapping on your window pulled you from your late-night thoughts and you pulled yourself up into a sitting position on your bed, craning your head to try and peer out through the glass. Of course, you couldn’t see anything through the darkness. You pulled yourself off your bed with a sigh, dragging your feet as you made your way to the window.

Upon closer observation you thought you could make out two figures standing in the grass below. With another sigh you pulled open your window.

“Are you throwing rocks at my window?” You hissed, rolling your eyes as the two boys dropped the rocks in their hands guiltily. “What the hell is this, a five-sos song?”

“Are you coming or not?” Luke whined and you rolled your eyes again.

You silently thanked your laziness for the fact that you hadn’t yet changed into your pajamas as you climbed out the window.

Your feet touched the ground softly, Reggie’s hands firm on your waist and yours on his shoulders from when he had caught you after you pushed yourself off the edge of your roof. You smiled gratefully at him, trying to ignore the erratic beating of your heart and the familiar warmth that had spread to your cheeks as you stepped out of his grasp. You wondered if his heart was beating just as fast or if his cheeks had turned that shade of pink they got whenever he was flustered, you couldn’t tell in the darkness.

“So, where to this evening, gentlemen?” You asked and the two boys turned to stare at each other, clearly not having gotten that far in their planning.

“Uh, the beach?”

“Boardwalk?” They asked at the same time before grinning.

“Close enough,” Luke said, leading the way to the end of your driveway where his bike and Reggie’s skateboard lay discarded.

“Oh, I’ll go grab my bike from the garage-“ you spoke when you realized, turning to double back but Luke caught your arm, stopping you.

“It’s okay, you can just ride on my handlebars,” he suggested and you narrowed your eyes.

“Isn’t that dangerous?”

“That’s what makes it fun,” he spoke with a wicked grin that send your heart racing once more.

You nodded in agreement, a little afraid of what your voice would sound like if you tried to speak, and followed him to his bike. Once Luke was situated on the bike seat Reggie helped boost you up onto the handlebars, Luke’s arms coming to rest on either side of you.

You were off to a rocky start as Luke began to pedal, the bike swaying from side to side as he adjusted to riding with the extra weight at the front of the bike. Your knuckles turned white from how tightly you were gripping the handlebars and you found yourself torn between wanting to clench your eyes shut and being unable to close them for fear of crashing. It wasn’t until Luke righted the bike and began riding smoothly that you let out the breath you hadn’t realized you’d been holding.

“You okay, Y/N?” Reggie asked, skateboarding alongside you.

“Yeah,” you answered, sounding breathless and Reggie smirked knowingly. Luke had that effect on people.

The breathless nervousness went away though, and by the end of the trip you were grinning like a madman, whooping and hollering whenever Luke did something slightly reckless. The power of adrenaline, you supposed.

You pouted when Luke finally slowed the bike to a stop Reggie smirked when he noticed, the boy slowing to a stop beside you.

“Come on sugar, down you go,” he spoke, placing his hands on your waist again to help you off the handlebars.

“Sugar?” You questioned with a quirked brow as your feet touched the ground, the adrenaline still coursing through your veins apparently making you bolder as you’d normally become a stuttering, flustered mess at a term of endearment like that.

“Sorry, would you rather I didn’t?” Reggie asked quietly but assuredly, his hands still burning holes where they remained on your waist and you suddenly realized how close you were.

“No, it’s okay babe,” you replied, attempting to keep your cool. From your position so close to him you could now see the pink blush spreading across his cheeks and you smirked victoriously to yourself at your ability to make him just as flustered as he made you.

“So what’s the plan?” Luke asked, spooking you and Reggie and causing you to jump away from each other.

You narrowed your eyes confusedly at Luke.

“Why are you asking me? This was your idea!”

“Well I didn’t exactly get this far!” Luke protested with a whine and a pout which you giggled at.

“It’s okay darling,” you said, lightly patting him on the cheek before beginning to wander down the boardwalk. “We’ve got time.”

“Wha- hey wait up!” Luke called, and you heard their footsteps pouring on the wood as they jogged to catch up.

The three of you wandered for a while before Luke go sick of pulling his bike around (you and Reggie both pointed out that he could’ve locked it up at one of the many bike racks you’d passed) and insisted that you find a spot to be stationary. That’s how you wound up sitting in the sand, not far from where the waves crashed onto the beach. The three of you sat and talked, periodically tossing rocks into the water.

Not long after you’d found your spot on the shore, you began to regret not throwing on a jacket when you left the house. Your outfit had been ideal for the warm summer day and spending time indoors, but you weren’t exactly equipped for sitting by the water after sundown.

“Are you cold?” Luke and Reggie asked simultaneously, both apparently having noticed your shivering.

You watched amusedly as the two boys glared at each other from either side of you before they began speaking again.

“Here take my flannel,” Luke offered, already beginning to shrug it off his shoulders.

“You can have my jacket?” Reggie asked at the same time, the dark haired boy also shrugging off his leather jacket.

Reggie was faster than Luke, and before you could even accept either offer he was draping the black leather around your shoulders. You smiled gratefully at him, pulling the material tighter around you, though not slipping your arms through the sleeves. On your other side Luke pouted while Reggie stuck his tongue out triumphantly at his friend.

“Please, boys, stop fighting over me! I can’t take it!” you teased.

It was meant to be a joke but you didn’t miss the way Luke tensed up or Reggie’s eyes widened like deer caught in headlights. You tried not to think to much about it but you couldn’t help but hear Alex’s voice in your head.

___

“What are you wearing?”

You paused on your front steps, turning to peer at your best friend across your lawns.

“A jacket?” You answered, giving him a weird look. “It’s getting chilly out and you know it’s always cold in the theater.”

The two of you were going to see a movie, it was your tradition. At least once a month you’d go out for Tuesday-night $5 movies, even if you didn’t care about what was in theaters.

“Yeah but I recognize that jacket,” Alex said, moving towards you to get a closer look.

“Well yeah, you’ve seen like every piece of clothing I own,” you scoffed, but for all your bravado you found yourself shrinking your arms into the leather sleeves self-consciously.

“Oh. My. Gosh.” Alex breathed, putting emphasis on each word. “It’s not yours.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Please, Y/N, you think I wouldn’t recognize Reggie’s jacket? He barely lets it out of his sight! How’d you end up with it?”

You couldn’t help the warmth that spread to your face when you remembered how eager he was to give it to you, gently draping it over your shoulders. He barely lets it out of his sight and yet he’d insisted on giving it to you.

“Did he give it to you?” Alex gasped and you felt your cheeks grow impossibly warmer.

“It’s not a big deal,” you tried to brush it off but you both knew you were lying. “We snuck out to the beach the other night and I got cold so he offered me his jacket. No big deal.”

“No big deal-“ he repeated under his breath, shaking his head in disbelief. “You know what? I think we should skip the movie and go get ice cream.”

“No! Movie night is tradition!”

“You just don’t want to talk to me about this.”

“You’re absolutely right.” You agreed, opening the driver’s side door of you car. “Now c’mon, the movie theater awaits.”

You heard Alex grumble as he walked around to the other side of the car before climbing into the passenger seat beside you.

“Fine. But we’re getting ice cream after.”

“As long as you’re buying.”

___

“And then they took me back home and he never asked for the jacket back and I haven’t seen him since then to return it and-“

“And you decided to wear it to the movies with me, where you knew you weren’t going to see him.” Alex finished with a knowing look and you stared down at your ice cream, willing away the heat in your cheeks.

When you finally looked back up he was still watching you expectantly. You groaned, sticking your spoon into your ice cream and crossing your arms defensively.

“It’s really comfortable, okay? And it- it smells nice,” you admitted with a pout.

“How often have you been wearing it at home?” He asked teasingly and you glared.

“Oh fuck off!”

Alex merely laughed at the grumpy expression on your face before the two of you fell into a friendly silence.

“Y’know one day I’m going to catch you wearing Willie’s clothes and I’m never going to let you live it down.”

“I’m not the one trying to hide my feelings,” Alex pointed at you with his spoon before resuming eating his ice cream.

“Really? So you’ve had a conversation with Willie about your feelings and you both know where each other stands?” Alex glared at you and you smirked. “That’s what I thought.”

“Y’know what? I don’t need to take this,” he pushed his chair away from the table, sending you a playful glare before walking away to throw away his empty ice cream cup.

“What’s the matter Mercer? Can’t stand the taste of your own medicine?” You called after him and he responded by flipping you off over his shoulder.

Part 4

____

JATP Taglist: @meangirlsx @morganayennefertyrell @n0wornever @bright-molina @reg-peters @calamitykaty

TML Taglist: @bright-patterson @marinettepotterandplagg @everyonesannoyedwithme @dream-a-little-bigger-x @percico-heronstairs @starjane312 @ifilwtmfc @jatphatones @cherrymaybank @sorrowfulfragmentation @stargazing-dreamer-girl @daisybutterlions @mynameisntluke @willex-owns-my-heart @theolivekiddo @90ssunsetcurve

[bts-teaspoonff]

Distance pt. 1

Genre: Romance, Oblivious Mutual Pining, Operation:Jealousy, College!AU, eventual smut

Pairing: Jimin x reader

Rating: PG-13 (last chapter - M rating)

Synopsis: You adore Jimin but you’ve kept it a secret from him despite being so close to him. Jimin turns out that he feels the same. Would you be able to erase the distance between you and Jimin when mountains of obstacles come both your way?

Word count: 6.7k

PARTS: 1 | 2 | 3

(A/N) I know I updated you guys about this being a oneshot but as I was writing it, it became a bit long and I was also busy with a lot right now. I will split this supposed-to-be-one-shot into two or three parts. It won’t be a long fanfic.

Loud blasts of sounds coming from the room beside mine woke me up from my nap. My brother’s speakers were on full blast, with no regards for life present inside the house that might be savoring the peaceful afternoon that was once inhabiting this house. I rolled to the other side of my bed and buried my face under the pillow. I really tried to mask the noise but apparently, he shot up the volume twofold. I trashed my blanket away from me and stood up from the bed. Still half awake, I bolted out of my room. Standing in front of my brother’s room, I bombarded his door with loud and mad whacks. He knows I take my afternoon slumber a bit more seriously so he better make sure to expect an earful from me.

“Jeon Jungkook. Open this door this instant!” I brutally murdered his door with knocks and pounds then I was greeted by a smiling Jungkook, as he opens the door with just his head peeking through. “I was taking a nap. Good dream in fact. Give me one reason now, for me not to cut the wire of your speakers.”

“I have a good one actually.” He fully opened the door and then I was greeted by two smiling angels, or little devils depending on their mood. Jimin and Taehyung, my brother’s best friends and also my batch mates in college. I was in awe at the sight of Jimin sitting on a beanbag across the room. Not a moment ago, he was fully occupying my dreams and now, he’s here sitting quietly enjoying his bag of chips. Taehyung still continuing to dance over the songs that, I might add, are making my ears bleed with how loud it is.

“You know I don’t question your music taste, but do you want me to check your ears? Are you deaf that you need to turn up the music this loud? The walls of this house are gonna crumble down any moment with how ground-shaking and deafening it is.” Jimin chuckling while taking a mouthful of chips in his hands from the bag. Jungkook was still wiggling his butt to the music. I was stealing glances at Jimin as Jungkook proceeded to turn the volume of his speakers down. “Thank you.”

“Sorry. I forgot that you were at home. I thought you were at your part time work.” Jungkook leaned on the door with his arms over his head. “Mom and Dad are on a trip so I figured I could enjoy the house.” Jimin stood up from where he was seated and I could feel a small pull from my chest as he fixed his shirt. I admired his skinny but toned arms and ethereal face, glowing from the golden hour just emanating from the windows in my brother’s room. It is not helping that he was wearing a white loose long-sleeved shirt but still shows his amazing physique, which is totally my type.

“Hey.” I could feel the heat inside my body just from this small greeting from Jimin. Gosh, I am so totally attracted to this man. “Sorry to disturb your nap. We really thought you weren’t at home.” Jungkook removed his arms on the door and went back to join Taehyung, who is still enjoying bopping to songs in the background like the comedian he is. Jimin, now leaning on the door in front of me, looked straight into my eyes while smiling. I was taken aback and found my head back up from embarrassment that he might discover the flush stamped on my face.

He threw what seems to be my brother’s heavy blanket over my chest. I looked down and caught the blanket, and stared back at him looking puzzled. “Cover up.” He jokingly grinned. I looked down again and I realized that I was wearing a spaghetti strap tank and boxer shorts. I was beet red from embarrassment. Why did I forget the lack of clothing I’m wearing and here I am still in front of my crush like I’m parading myself?.

Jimin cleared his throat.  “Are you gonna come to the party at Hoseok’s house this weekend?”

“I guess so. Are you gonna go?” I asked back.

“I might. I haven’t really decided yet.” He rubbed his nape and looked at me. It’s as if time slowed down as we both look into each other’s eyes. The tension was slowly suffocating me and I couldn’t muster a word.

“How about you go with us? I’ll drive.” Taehyung slid himself through the small space between Jimin’s body and the door.

“I thought Jimin’s not decided yet?”

“Oh.” Taehyung turned to look at Jimin. “He’s going to come to the party. I’m sure.” Taehyung chuckled.

Jimin just stood there quiet, with both his hands at his side. “Okay. You guys pick me up at 8?” Taehyung nods and proudly places his arms on Jimin’s shoulder.

“Noona, can you order pizza? I’m famished.” I saw Jungkook from behind, sitting down on his bean bag. He was sweating profusely on his forehead and trying to catch his breath. Looks like him and Tae danced their asses off.

“Sure. I was about to ask you the same thing.” I smiled as I step out of Jungkook’s room and hurriedly ran towards mine, Jungkook’s blanket still wrapped around me, to phone the pizza place. However, a part of me also wanted to quickly escape the tension that was brewing in the room.

Taehyung nudges Jimin’s side, warranting an eye smirk from Jimin. “What was that? Getting your tongue-tied?” He whispered as he stood in front of Jimin, just inches away from the open door. “You’re not doing a good job hiding your feelings.” He looked behind Jimin and towards Jungkook to make sure the younger boy doesn’t hear what he’s saying.

“What are you talking about?” Jimin whispered back.

“I’m obviously talking about y/n.” Taehyung poked at Jimin’s stomach, suprising him. “In this situation, why don’t you just confess if you’re going to be so obvious?”

“Am I really... that obvious?” asks Jimin.

“I’m your best friend since high school. I know you like the back of my hand. Besides, it’s like you become this shy little boy when it comes to her. You look so cute.” Taehyung scoffs, rubbing his hand on Jimin’s chin before walking back to Jungkook.

…..

“What was that? I thought he’s gonna hear my heart pounding.” I gently pat my hands on my chest, leaning on the door of my room. I paced around my room to calm down the party in my chest.

I used to just see Jimin as the goofy classmate and a friend of my brother’s. I already kind of know him even back then since he was slightly popular with the girls. Girls tend to ogle and chat whenever Taehyung and Jimin pass by through the halls. Come on, who wouldn’t? I admit that those two really look handsome but it didn’t faze me before. They became friends with my brother when they formed this band together with other boys from the campus.

We were once paired to present a report together in a class that we were both taking at the time when we were college sophomores. I’m not much of a talker especially to strangers. I’m comfortable enough with the company and stories of my few friends. That’s why it surprised me back then that Jimin would keep on making small talk even outside of our class while we were working together on our presentation. I just thought he would make me do all the work and not pay attention. He was really helpful with our presentation, even nitpicking all the small details.

Whenever he and Taehyung would visit my brother at home to do band practice, he would sneak in some moments to work with me on our presentation. I really saw his efforts when the date for their band performance and our presentation coincided on the same week.

“It’s okay. I can finish this. You can go back downstairs.” I was yawning in front of Jimin, while he snuck out from their practice downstairs to come to my room. He was adamant on working on the presentation.

“I want to work on this… with you.” I was sitting in front of my computer while Jimin was sitting beside me. I could feel his eyes locked on me as I let out another yawn. He slid his fingers on top of mine and I looked at him. The air in the room was ghost-quiet but my heartbeat was so deafening. It was the first time I felt shy around Jimin. I pulled my hand away from his. He cleared his throat and looked away. “What kind of a partner am I if I push all this on you? I don’t want my name to be on our work if I, at least, don’t put in this much effort.” He laughed and we both looked at each once more.

I guess I liked him since then. Ever since that night, my heart would jump at the sight of him. It’s like I got this pink sparkly filter in my eyes whenever I would see Jimin. I would become tongue-tied whenever I would be near him. I would be distracted in class, staring at him like what the other girls would do. I kept this to myself and I don’t want to be like other girls who go crazy over him and bother him. I thought to myself that my feelings would just be a waste of his time.

The week of his band performance and our presentation came. He still looks so handsome and perfect when he should be showing signs of stress and overwork. Their band practice would last until past midnight and he would allot at least an hour to work with me. I would sneak glances at his hands while I was typing and researching on the net. Sometimes, his hands would tremble from overwork. He would play the guitar for hours without rest. I could really see that he was tired. I would push him to just go home and rest since our report is almost finished but he would insist to stay in my room for at least an hour. Sometimes, he would nap on my beanbag for a few minutes then sneak back on the chair beside me to discuss our report.

Two days before their band performance, he unconsciously took a long nap on my beanbag. He was curled up like a cat, hugging his legs. He was so adorable like he could fit in my hands curled up like that. I noticed that my room was a bit cold so I took my blanket and placed it around him. As I was closing my distance from him, I heard him whisper my name so softly followed by a smile. My heart stopped and I stared at him. I wanted to caress his cheek. I was the only one to witness the cool Jimin from our campus curled up and vulnerable like this. Even if he wasn’t aware of my romantic feelings towards him, I was content with this distance. He is way out of my league. What would a cool and popular guy want from a normal college girl like me? Then I realized that my hand moved on its own and was now on Jimin’s soft and warm cheeks. I swiftly pulled my hand away and quietly walked back to my desktop.

It was not a surprise that their performance went on without a hitch and they became the talk of the campus. It was funny because Jungkook became a campus favorite as well. It was so funny to see that Jungkook would have eyes follow him wherever he would go. Girls loved his voice during the performance, screaming his name that night. All of them in the band became celebrities around the campus. Despite being the guitarist, Jimin also sang small parts in their songs and belted out high notes. I stayed at the far most corner and watched their whole performance that night. Jimin kept on searching through the crowd the whole night and there was a moment when I caught him connecting his gaze with me. His face lit up like a Christmas tree. You might even think that he was searching for me and was so glad to spot me at the back of the audience. I wish that was the case but there’s nothing bad in imagining it.

Our report was also commended by our professors, even getting praises from our fellow classmates. I was so proud of Jimin that he was able to achieve all of these achievements that week. I saw his hard work and dedication in all that he does. It makes me laugh that I had this former impression from him that he was just a typical popular guy who has no interest in anything but girls and vanity. Well, he really takes good care of himself and how he presents himself so I guess I could call him a bit vain.

The week after our report and their performance, he would still make small talks with me even outside our class. The band also frequently hangs out at our house, which made my college life a bit more chaotic but fun.

During our junior year, we barely had any class together and our schedules don’t match. I would just see him whenever he would visit my brother at home along with his other bandmates. We would occasionally eat together but only when my brother and his bandmates would push their way in my peaceful lunch time. He would sit beside me though, making my inner self very glad. I would, however, make sure that I was not so close to him since I was aware of the eyes of other girls behind him. He would show me a frown every time I would do this but I don’t want to overstep my boundaries. I don’t want him to know how I feel.

Our junior year went on like this. Not much interaction around the campus but I would be excited whenever we would be in the same place outside of school. I grew closer with their other bandmates, especially with Hoseok and Namjoon. The two of them were a year ahead of us and they both became my older brothers in a way. Hoseok would always know what to do to cheer me up and Namjoon would give me the best advices on everything. Although Namjoon is one year older than me, sometimes I feel like I’m the one taking care of him since he’s always clumsy. Whenever Hoseok is not free to offer a ride to Namjoon, he would always text me to accompany him somewhere. I share the same sentiment with Hoseok and the other members in the band that Namjoon shouldn’t ever drive for the sake of world peace.

As months go by, I grew a lot closer with those two than Jimin. We became a bit distant and Jimin would turn silent or timid whenever we would be in the same place. A few exchanges but the tension between us grew bigger. I don’t even know if he hates me, doesn’t want my company or just plain indifference. I couldn’t read him nowadays. Maybe we grew to be different people and I was just lucky that I was his partner for that one specific class report or I was just his bandmate’s sister. That’s it.

Now, we’re in the middle of our Senior Year. Hoseok and Namjoon have already graduated. Namjoon went away to live in another city to work while Hoseok stayed around here to work as an intern at a local subsidiary company of a renowned music label. Hoseok would sometimes visit Jungkook here at home with Jimin and Taehyung or he would ask us, sometimes including me, to visit him at home.

My friendship with Jimin got a little better this year compared to our junior year. Since the band is not active anymore, the three remaining boys relied on each other more. Taehyung would always barge in our house, sometimes un-announced, but not always alone. He would always come by at our house with Jimin. The both of them adore my brother too much to the point that they look miserable when separated from my brother, despite being older.

…..

“What movie do you guys want to choose in Netflix?” Taehyung occupied the far most left spot on the couch in the living room. I was still in the kitchen getting two slices of pepperoni pizza for myself and my brother. Jungkook was standing beside me, waiting patiently for his pizza. I handed him his plate and he quickly walked away to the living room. As he disappears from the kitchen, Jimin appeared. He stretched out his arm to reach for the other pizza box. Once more, the air in the kitchen became heavy.

“I’m glad you’re with my brother. He really needs the company.” Jungkook was just dumped by his girlfriend a week ago. I tried to start up a conversation with Jimin as I couldn’t take the heavy tension in the air.

“Yeah. Don’t worry, we’re here for him.” He closes the pizza box as soon as he pulls out a slice. “…as we are for you. Don’t forget that.” I looked at him and as I was about to say something when my phone’s screen lights up from beside the pizza box. Jimin also looks at my phone.

“Hoseok’s calling me. I should… answer.”

Honestly, I was taken aback from what Jimin said then I began to wonder when did we became this awkward with each other. No matter how much I try to remove the heavy air, it always just comes back up. “Yes?” I answer the call and saw Jimin turning towards the living room. He proceeds to sit in the middle of the couch.

“Y/N!!!!!!” I was greeted with a cheerful shout from Hoseok. “Are you coming to my party tomorrow?”

 “Jimin, do you want some fried chicken?” Taehyung calls for Jimin as he offers his plate. Jimin took one chicken from Taehyung’s plate. “Who is she talking to?” Taehyung points.

“Hoseok-hyung.” Jimin’s eyes still glued to the screen as Jungkook chooses a movie.

Taehyung smirks but quickly erases it from his face when Jimin looks at him. “Hey, do you know that Hoseok-hyung plans to confess to y/n tomorrow?” he whispered and nudges Jungkook who sits between him and Jimin.

Jungkook almost choked on a small piece of pizza that he was eating. “HOSEOK-HYUNG?!”

“Yeah. He called me last night to ask me to at least convince y/n to come to the party. You know how she is with new crowds. He wanted me to make sure that she will come to the party tomorrow.” Taehyung looks at his friend. Jimin was frozen in his place, silent and taken aback.

“I didn’t even know that hyung likes my sister. Wait, eww! He likes my sister. Her?” Jungkook exclaims quietly. Taehyung shushed him and knocks his head. “I’m just joking but seriously? I didn’t even realize.”

“Am I the only one around here who pays a lot of attention to their friends?” Taehyung chuckles as he takes a bite on his chicken.

“Who pays attention to whom?” I noticed Taehyung and Jungkook were laughing and causing a ruckus as I walk towards the living room. I stopped behind the couch as I barely hear what Taehyung just said.

“Nothing. I’m just a good friend to everyone.” Taehyung flashes his adorable good boy smile towards me with his eyes squinted. I giggled.

I sat on the far most right spot on the couch beside Jimin. Jungkook chose Love, Rosie and I turned, in confusion, to look at Taehyung and Jimin’s reaction at Jungkook’s odd choice for our movie night. However, they just stayed quiet as the intro scene plays out. Normally, they would bicker on what movie to play but I guess they’re refraining on doing that today since my brother needs to soothe his heart. I would admit that watching a romantic film with my brother and male friends normally warrants a confused expression from anyone but somehow, this is now our normal situation. It just warms my heart thinking that my brother has got some good friends.

…..

I honestly don’t know what dress I should wear tonight. In the back of my mind, I slightly want to look good in front of Jimin. I barely dress up or even come to a party with him. I’m also kind of tired with our current dynamic. I want to get our old dynamic back. I just want to laugh at his jokes and see him dork off. I want to ease myself around him without getting tongue tied.

I nearly tried on all the dresses that I owned. My bedroom is a mess at this point. I tossed some of the dresses on the bed while a few were on my chair. After an hour, I was satisfied on wearing my trusty red dress. Hoseok told me that some of his friends from work are present in the party and I want to look at least presentable. This is not just your normal college party where everyone would get wrecked and drunk.

I gawked at myself through the mirror. The scarlet red dress hugging the right parts of my body. I could feel fire while I stare at the figure-flattering dress on me. The way the short sleeve hugs my arm and puffs ever so slightly above the cuff up until my shoulder. I trailed my hands along the neckline. I like how it plunges just enough for a peek of my soft twins but still gives off a classy and demure impression. It gives off enough allure but not too much without looking over the top. The skirt, hugging my behind, tapers off just around my mid-thigh elegantly emphasizing my curves. I paired it with an almost-beige beret. I’m going all out here. I want Jimin to notice me and maybe, just maybe, he’ll look at me differently now.

“You look nice. Different.” Jungkook stood at my door. I turned around, alerted at his presence. He was smiling while leaning against the door.

“Really?” I shyly twirled around. I have always trusted Jungkook’s taste in fashion. If he deems my dress presentable then I’m satisfied with it.

“Taehyung’s car is already parked out front. Jimin’s downstairs waiting for you.” My heart jumped a beat from hearing his name. Jungkook walked away from the door. I hurriedly placed my trusty charm bracelet around my wrist and collected my bag from the bed. I slowly shuffle down the stairs.

I slowly noticed Jimin’s silhouette come into view as I go down the steps. He was looking out the door, talking to Taehyung who was leaning against his car out on the street. I was about mid-way down the stairs when Taehyung pointed at me to call Jimin’s attention. Jimin turns around and was obviously taken aback by what he was seeing. I unconsciously fix my posture and the way I tread down. He looking straight at me. I could feel a small ember lit up inside my chest but I was determined to catch his attention. As I put my foot down on the last step, I slightly wobble almost slipping. I quickly reach my hand out on the railing to catch myself. I saw Jimin surprised and shuffling away from the door, as if to try and catch me but stopped when I did save myself from falling.

I wanted to scream in embarrassment but I stayed indifferent. I just continued to smile until I stood a few inches away from Jimin. He was still staring at me, shyly checking me out. He looks rather ravishing tonight as well. He was clad in a white long sleeved button-down shirt tucked in his black sleek pants paired with a classic black belt. His black hair flowing across his forehead. Simple but so Jimin-like. Just the way I like it.

“You look beautiful.” Jimin smiled. I could feel my cheeks burning from his compliment. Much to my chagrin, this small compliment completely erased my inner humiliation from a while ago.

“Thank you. You look nice as well.” I beamed back at him.

We both walked out the door and to Taehyung’s car. Taehyung complimented on my outfit as well. I teased him that his outfit was the only one making his appearance work. The three of us laughed and entered the car. Jungkook soon followed.

I thought I was going to squeeze out at least a conversation from Jimin but he stayed somewhat silent throughout the drive to Hoseok’s. Taehyung was talking to me while peeking from the rearview mirror as I sat behind with Jungkook. Jimin sat in front, making small conversation but he didn’t even stole some glances towards my direction.

We finally arrived at Hoseok’s. The four of us wading through the crowd to look for the host of the party.

“Guys!” A scream came from ahead of us, hidden behind the crowd. We immediately recognize who it is. “I missed you guys!” Hoseok came running, hugging all of us. I almost panicked at the sudden contact and looked for Jimin. I’m glad he was not beside or else, my chest would be buried across his arms. Instead, Jungkook was the recipient of this dreaded moment. Luckily, I pushed the thought aside since it’s just my brother.

“Hyung, we missed you.” Taehyung frowns and hugs Hoseok. He hugs Taehyung back.

“I heard the baby of the group got dumped.” Hoseok releases Taehyung from his arms and looks at Jungkook. Jungkook shyly laughs and hugs Hoseok as well.

“I missed you as well, hyung.” Jungkook lightly punches Hoseok’s arm as a joke. Hoseok does this complex handshake with Jimin from behind Jungkook as my brother is still wrapped around Hoseok’s body. Hoseok finally turns his eyes to me. He smiles and releases my brother.

“Look at you. I haven’t seen you in two months and here you are, looking so wonderful tonight.” He twirled me around, getting giggles from Jungkook and Taehyung. “Is it for me?” I jokingly hit Hoseok’s arm.

“This is a nice party. I gotta look okay so as not to embarrass you.” I swear I could feel Jimin’s stare from my peripheral vision as Hoseok continues to compliment me.

“I have to introduce you all to my workmates.” Hoseok pulls my hand to lead the four of us to the living room. The three boys followed the two of us. He stops just before two men. He calls them out and the two men turns to us. “Guys, these are my college bandmates that I was talking about.” I stood aside as he reaches his out towards Jimin, Taehyung and Jungkook.

“Nice to meet you.” Jungkook respectfully bows and shakes the two men’s hand. The three of them take their turns in introducing themselves to the two men.

“Guys, these are Yoongi and Seokjin. Yoongi is a producer while Seokjin is an aspiring artist soon to debut under our label.” The three of them bowing once more, as well as myself.

“Who is this beautiful lady beside you?” They all turned to look at me as Seokjin turns the attention to me. I smiled and shyly bowed.

“I’m Y/N. Jungkook’s brother and I suppose you could say I was appointed as their manager when they were still active as a band.”

“So you’re Y/N? I heard a lot about you from Hoseok. He used to…” Hoseok quickly nudges Seokjin’s side and laughed. Seokjin stopped and just giggled.

“I heard a few of your songs. It was amazing.” Yoongi slips in. Taehyung and Jimin beamed at Yoongi. They were now starting to talk about music. Not that I don’t care about it but I don’t understand the technical part of it. I silently excused myself out from their conversation, not telling anyone from the group that I walked away.

I make my way to the mini bar. I could really use a drink and honestly, a time out from the boys. This dress should be making Jimin notice me but I guess I don’t have enough charm. With slight frustration comes a bravery to order two cocktail right away. As I wait for my drinks, I look around the party. I recognize some of the guests but I guess a few of them would be Hoseok’s acquaintances. I’m not much of a party person but it turned out that I only enjoy going to one when I’m with the boys.

“Why are you alone?” I heard a voice from behind me. I turned around and saw Jimin walking towards the bar. He stood beside me, leaning his arms on the bar stool.

“You guys were talking about music and I’m honest that I don’t understand a lot of it so I went to the bar. Also, I figured that I needed a drink.” Because of you but I can’t tell him that.

“Well then, you’re not drinking alone.” He proceeded to order his drink. While he was turned towards the bartender, I nervously fixed my dress and my posture. I slightly puffed out my chest and bent my waist, leaning on the bar stool. “So… there’s something we need to talk about.” I nervously stood straight from his words.

“Okay… What is it?” As of this moment, I felt like I was treading on thin ice. I couldn’t hear the blasting music from the party and the chatter from everyone else here. He was fiddling with his hands, which got me thinking that maybe it got something to do with me. I’m so nervous on what he was about to say.

“Uhhh…. Jungkook, Taehyung and I were planning to perform again at the Gala night.” Okay. I got my hopes up for nothing. “We’re in a slump trying to write a song. The organizers told us that we should at least perform one song about Love. Jungkook was our main songwriter but he told us that he doesn’t want to. We understand why he doesn’t want to but Taehyung and I are really doing our best. We just couldn’t come up with good lyrics.”

“Wait, why are you telling me this? Don’t tell me…”

“We need your help. I need your help.” He stared at me. “You and Namjoon-hyung worked together on one of our songs and it was a hit. Maybe you could do it again this time?”

“Yeah, but that was a song about hardships of youth. I just included my real thoughts into the songs. I guess that’s why the lyrics came easy to me. Besides, most of the lyrics came from Namjoon.” Jimin held my hand, which surprised me. He did his puppy eyes and silently begged me. I could see him grinning and tilting his head. It’s funny because the way he looks right now, it’s like we’re back to normal again. I smiled as I was amused by Jimin’s antics.

“You could try to include your real thoughts through the lyrics. Tae and I will help but we figured that we need another set of brains. We don’t want to make a song just for the sake of performing on the Gala night. We really want to make it good.” I could feel Jimin’s passion for music flowing out of him right now. This was one of the reason why I grew to like him a lot. He gives his all on whatever he does.

“Okay but trust me, I haven’t been in a relationship in a long time. My input might not be helpful.” I giggled.

“That’s okay. Neither have I.”

“Really? I thought…” Before I get to finish my sentence, the bartender gives out our drinks. Two for me and one for Jimin. He saw the two glasses I pulled from the bartender’s hands and chuckled.

“Going all out?” He asked, laughing while trying to cover his mouth.

“I told you I really needed a drink.” Even before I got a sip on my liquid courage, I’m glad we’re having this conversation and it’s going pretty smoothly.

“You want to sit over there?” Jimin pointed out a small couch just outside the reception area and beside the swimming pool. I nodded and followed him. We make our way out through the crowd and out the living room towards the pool area. He let me sit on the couch first and sat beside me. I placed my other drink on the small coffee table in front us while I sip on my drink that was in my other hand.

“I can’t remember correctly when the Gala Night would be. Is that… two weeks before our graduation?” I closed my eyes as I try to remember the significant dates.

“Yeah. I guess the Gala night would be… a month from now.” He casually sipped on his drink.

“Oh wow. That fast huh? We’re about to graduate from College.” I looked at him as I try to savor those words. Graduation. When we graduate, I won’t see him around and Taehyung. Jungkook would still be in college as a senior. Thinking about it just makes me sad.

“Wait, what are you going to ask me just before the bartender gave out the drinks?” he asks.

“Oh. I’m just surprised that you haven’t been in a relationship in a long time. I thought that with the abundance of choices around you, you might have your eyes on somebody already. ” We both sipped from our glasses. His gaze lingered on the floor for a second while sipping on his drink before he replied.

“I do actually.” I choked on my drink. “But I don’t think it’s the right time for the both of us. She might not even be attracted to me.” Jimin’s face is now somber.

“Who wouldn’t be attracted to you? Look at you, you’re plenty attractive.” Well, I am but that doesn’t erase the fact the he likes somebody already. He might even be courting her already. I finished my first drink and reached for my second.

Jimin stayed with me until I finish my two drinks. We talked about almost everything and you’ll wonder why we even became awkward in the first place. My heart was jumping all around the whole time we were chatting up. I was conscious if I smelled good or if I still look good. Taehyung gave us another round of drinks and went back inside to chat with Yoongi and Seokjin once more. I wanted my nerves to take a break so I asked Jimin to get me another drink from the bar. He stood up and left me on the couch. As soon as he was out of my sight, I slumped back on the couch.

Normally, I wouldn’t be this nervous talking to any boy. It’s not like I’m a stranger to love. I have one ex-boyfriend and that relationship ended on bad terms. That was in high school and ever since then, I haven’t fallen in love with anyone. Not since Jimin came barging into my life. It was really a push and pull situation ever since then.

“Hey miss. Can I seat beside you?” I heard a male voice coming from my side. I was still slumped back on the couch with eyes closed. I sat up properly and saw a stranger with two drinks in his hand.

“This seat is actually taken. He’s just getting our drinks.” I placed my hand on the space beside me so as to show him that I am not interested in his company.

“But no one is seating there right now.” He proceeded to seat beside me, disregarding my hand that he almost sat on it. “You can have my other drink instead.” He gives his other drink out to my hand. I inched myself away from this guy who’s beginning to irritate me.

“No thanks. My friend would be here soon.” I placed the drink that he handed me on the table. I got a whiff of this stranger’s scent and he smelled strongly of alcohol. Shoot. This guy is very intoxicated.

“Come on. I’m lonely. Can’t you entertain me at least while your friend is not here yet?” I was looking at his face while I wiggled away to the far side of my part of the couch. I didn’t realize that he started wrapping his hands on my thighs. I was shocked by the coldness of his hands and a shiver went down to my spine. I couldn’t think of any words and my hands started to tremble.

When I was about to push his hands away, I was shocked when somebody pulled the stranger off the couch. I looked up and saw a very furious Hoseok holding the stranger by the collar. He pushed the man off and shouted something out. I couldn’t really hear anything clearly right now but I was sure when Hoseok kneeled down in front of me and talked to me.

I looked around and everyone’s attention was now on us. It didn’t register to me yet at how Hoseok shouted at the man must’ve been really loud to get the attention of even the people on the second floor. Some of them were peeking their heads out the balcony overlooking the pool and garden.

“Hey, are you okay? He didn’t try to touch you anywhere?” Hoseok was kneeling down in front me, placing his jacket on my lap.

“I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.” Everyone was still murmuring and looking at us. I was even more bashful at the amount of attention we’re getting now. Suddenly, my attention went to Jimin, Taehyung and Jungkook who were standing feet away from us. Jimin’s face looked so gloomy watching Hoseok and I while Taehyung and Jungkook were visibly arguing with the stranger who just took advantage of me.

“No you’re not. I’ll drive you home.” Hoseok took my hand and stood up.

“Jimin or Taehyung can drive me home. I came here with them.” I followed suit and stood up with Hoseok’s jacket still in my hands placed on my thighs.

“Those two drank. They can sleep here tonight.” A tone so stern came from Hoseok that I wasn’t even familiar with this kind of composure from him. He pulled my hand as we wade through the crowd. We also passed by a stunned and upset Jimin. Taehyung and Jungkook just watched as Hoseok pulled me through the living room and out the house.

Hoseok was silent as we walk to his car. I entered his car first followed by Hoseok. He soon starts the car and pulled away from the driveway. I looked back at his house thinking that I might have lost another chance to fix things with Jimin. Hoseok was visibly irritated about something as he taps his fingers in rhythms on the steering wheel. I don’t dare to speak to Hoseok as I was more nervous now with how he is irritated at something.

After a 15 minute drive, he stopped his car in front of our house. He was not stepping out of the car, still looking visibly irritated with one hand on the wheel. I thought that this was my cue to go out of the car so I opened the door and exited the silence-filled car. I took a few steps towards our patio when I heard a loud sound from Hoseok’s car door. I turned around and he was rushing, still looking very irritated, around the car and… towards me? I prepared myself for a lecture from Hoseok at how I was not aware of my surroundings and why couldn’t I even ask for the guys’ help when I was obviously in a bad situation. I closed my eyes and prepared myself for an earful scolding from him but I was greeted by a tight hug.

I opened my eyes in confusion as he hugged me tightly. My chin was sitting on the crook of his neck and my arms were frozen at my side. He released me from his arms soon after and he gazed at me with an expression I’m not familiar with. It was not from anger but something soft.

“I like you, y/n.”

Next: pt. 2

[coke-and-candy]

A Little Competition Never Hurt Anyone: Part 2

Here is the long awaited part 2! Now available on FF.net and AO3! Links below. Tags @echpr, @realsquidinc, @teresarosiadeviluke2112, @geminikessa, @astridflies, @driftingmoonlitpetals, @bee-wrecker, @iglowinggemma28, @drarryismylife101, @mikantsume, @diamondheart31, @iggy-of-fans, @runadaemon, @northernbluetongue, @kristycocopop, @czgamz, @mysticsoulgirl, @silvergold-swirl, @queenmj10, @asstheticmangos, @thesunstormsolo, @writingishfanonsideblog, @if-you-give-a-chat-a-cookie, @seraphichana, @bnha-fanfic-recs, @katieykat513, @whatarubberchicken, @princess-of-fangirls, @marichat00, @mmwolf1605, @urbanpineapplefarmer, @indecisive-mess-named-me, @adalouise1987, @winterfury-10, @celestialtitania, @vixen-uchiha, @certainmuffinbagelcalzone, @satans-favorite-homo, @jardimazul, @chronois, @marinette-is-a-badass, @the-no-one-in-the-corner, @jessigurl-design, @kittycatwowmeow, @himevampirechan, @livelifeauthorstyle, @hufflejournals, @melhuney, @xxvanilla-thundaxx, @thewondersoflebanon, @enduskgragon, @rumbelle18, @natasha-barton

FF.net (link)

Part 1 (link)

Edit: Now on AO3 (link)!

                                                   Part 2

                                               The Stakes

Today was the day!

Today was possibly the most important day of her whole LIFE!

Her chance to get that much closer to achieving her dream of being hard-hitting investigative reporter.

The first round of preliminary presentations and interviews—her one shot of making an impression on the judges—and Alya Césaire was determined to nail it.

She had worked up until the deadline in order to get her entry as perfect as possible. It hadn’t been easy to get the necessary information from Lila without tipping anyone off about the competition—but! in the end, she did. It was one of the reasons why Alya was already such a good reporter at such a young age. She knew how and when to ask the right questions. Even if it meant telling a few teeny tiny little fibs to keep everyone in the dark. A little poke and prod here and there, a little white lie about wanting to do little exposés on the Ladyblog about everyday Ladybugs and Chat Noirs… and boom! Lila had been more than happy to send her all the links to news articles and organization pages that mentioned her… Which were a lot—Lila really was amazing! And the deeper Alya got invested in her contest entry the more it that just solidified in Alya’s mind that she was doing the right thing.

Sure, she still felt a little guilty having to sometimes skip out of hanging out with Marinette in order to hangout with Lila to conduct her secret interviews. But it was ok! The ends would more than justify the means.

Besides… a few little lies never hurt anyone anyways…

Countless hours had gone into writing, researching, re-writing, editing, more editing, and practicing her presentation and interview answers (ok she was not quite sure what the judges would be asking but it never hurt to have some responses ready to go on the fly). All leading up to this moment!

Standing in front of the Le Monde Parisian headquarters, dressed in her best power outfit, presentation in hand, and her parents right there beside her to cheer her on.

Her mother and father both had taken time off in order to be there for her and Nora had even volunteered to watch the twins so that their parents wouldn’t have to worry and all of their attention could be on Alya today.

They walked into the bright, sleek, and modern lobby of the new building and towards the receptionist desk. The lobby was busy that morning, there were other couples there as well, most likely the parents of the other contestants that had gotten that fateful phone call and scheduled to present today.

They made their way over to the receptionist’s desk.

“Excuse me,” Alya said, doing her best to sound professional. “I’m here for my presentation for La CompétitionOlmpe de Gouges.”

“Name?” The receptionist asked.

“Alya Césaire.”

The receptionist typed away at her computer. “Ah! Here we are.” She looked up and directed the family towards the grand staircase on the other side of the lobby. “Go up the stairs to the second floor and then down the first hallway on your right, there you will see a set of black doors, room 202.” Alya nodded, simple enough instructions. “From there only the contestants are allowed in. Parents and all other family members will have to wait here in the lobby.”

“Thank-you,” Alya smiled politely, her parents also giving a polite nod of appreciation to the woman before following behind their second eldest daughter.

As Alya made her way to her destination, her journalistic eye could not help but take in her surroundings and the various other adults that filtered through the lobby, all in many different types of dress as well, ranging from khakis to exquisitely tailored suits to exotic styles from all over the world. Marinette had often spoken about how fashion gave an insight into different professional environments and the type of people who worked there. Alya was starting to understand what her friend had meant.

But thinking about the different clothing she was seeing reminded her of Marinette—which also reminded her about the last time they had spoken…

It would be an understatement to say that they had not parted on the best of terms.

They had gotten into an argument over the fact that the baker’s daughter was stubbornly refusing to hangout anywhere near Lila and how the only way they could all hangout together was if they straight up lied to her.

Which was what Alya had resorted to in order to have all the girls hanging together as a big group for once. Instead of always having to choose between hanging out with Marinette or hanging out with Lila.

The Ladyblogger wasn’t proud of her methods—but what else was she supposed to do?! She was desperate! All she wanted was for all of her friends to get along and have a great day together; hanging out, enjoying all that Paris had to offer for those lucky enough to live within her borders, and making happy memories together to be cherished…

Why couldn’t Marinette understand that?! Why did the pig-tailed girl have to be so, so... pig-headed!

The resulting argument between the two lycée students had gotten pretty heated and some pretty hurtful things probably would have been said had it not been for an Akuma attacking near where they had agreed to meet up.

But the damage had still been done.

That had been well over a week ago and Marinette was not speaking to ANY of them. She wouldn’t pick up her phone, refused to answer their texts, and even went so far as to asking her parents not to let any of them see her at home. Not even Adrien could get through to her! Every time he had tried approaching her, the designer would ignore him or actively avoid him anyway she could… even if it meant climbing out of a second story window. It was clearly having an effect on the whole class. It felt as if there was a dark cloud in the classroom, as if all the good things in the world have suddenly been cut off. Poor Lila was taking it the hardest and all the girls were doing their best to reassure her that it was not her fault and to cheer her up as best as they could.

It was clear to everyone that Marinette’s attitude was the one in the wrong, but the girl STILL would not see reason and Alya could not understand why!

Why was Marinette acting thing way?!

Why couldn’t she stop being so petty and jealous about Lila and give her a chance?!

Why was she being so stubborn and unreasonable?!

That’s why this day was so important on a more personable level. It would finally be the cold hard, evidence backed, and internationally backed panel of journalistic judges proof that would finally, FINALLY! Get through Marinette’s jealousy and delusions and at last show her that she had been wrong about Lila all along.

Maybe then, things could finally go back to normal and there would not be such a chill in the air during class…

Before Alya could sink further into the negative memories of the past week, her parents pulled her out of her thoughts and back to the present.

They had followed the receptionist’s instructions and were now standing in front of a pair of sleek black double-doors with simple polished steel handles, with the number 202 engraved on a spotless steel plaque next to them.

This was it.

“Good luck ti panther mwen an!” Her father enveloped her in a warm hug. His face beaming with pride as he handed his second oldest off to his wife so that she could have a turn in hugging their daughter.

“We are so proud of you!” Marlena Césaire gave her daughter a once over to make sure she was presentable for the umpteenth time, her smile beaming with pride. “Now you go in there and knock ‘em dead.”

“I will manman.”

“And remember to look them straight in the eye. Show no fear!”

“Of course papa.”

“We’ll be waiting in the lobby ok.”

With one final bone-crushing hug, Alya walked through the doors and as they closed behind her she took a moment to get a quick scan and layout of the room. It was a smaller waiting area with a few comfy looking black leather couches and there were already three other students, who looked to be about her age, sitting on them. Even though they were her competition, Alya still wanted to introduce herself. Who knows? Maybe one of them could be a valuable future colleague.

She immediately recognized one of them and instantly gravitated towards them with a wide smile.

“Mireille! Hey!”

The other girl looked up from the folder her hands, looking a bit surprised to hear her name and then broke out into a friendly grin as well when she saw who had called out her name. “Hi Alya! I didn’t know you were entering this competition as well.”

Alya nodded as she took a seat next to the junior weathergirl. “Yeah, I kind of wanted this to be a surprise since I’m doing my presentation on someone I’m really close to.”

“Really? Who is it?”

“Someone who fit the prompt for the competition to a T.” Alya couldn’t keep the pride in her tone for her friend seeping through as she began to list off her reasoning. “They’re naturally kind and giving person that has already achieved so much, despite being our age. Someone who knows what it means to carry on despite obstacles and never stops thinking about others. Someone who is sure to be one of the Greats of the future without a doubt.”

Hearing the conviction in Alya’s small speech Mireille couldn’t help but be impressed at the other girl’s confidence. But then again, Mireille thought she had a pretty good idea about just whom the auburn haired girl was talking about, but decided to go along.  

“Wow, and does this someone know that you entered a presentation about them…?”

“Nope!” Alya popped the p at the end for emphasis. She gave the other girl a mischievous grin and leaned in to stage whisper for added dramatics. “It’s all going to be a surprise.”

Mireille let out a little giggle at her schoolmate’s theatrics. Alya always did have a lot of spunk to her.

“Anyways, how long have you been waiting? What time is your appointment suppose to be at?” Alya wondered, adjusting herself a little sit a little bit more professionally.

“Oh! I already gave my presentation; I’m just waiting for a text from my dad letting me know he’s here to pick me up.” Mireille replied, holding up her phone.

“Really?!” Alya immediately fell into her default Ladyblogger mode. “How’d you think you did, what were the judges like, what did—“

Before Alya had a chance to finish her rapid-fire questions, or for the now slightly frazzled Mireille to get a chance to respond, a young, well dressed man in his twenties came into the room with a tablet and interrupted her.

“Alya Césaire?”

“Yes!” Alya replied.

He held the door at the opposite side of the room open for her. “Please come on in and begin setting up what ever you will need. The judges will be with you shortly.”

Alya quickly stood and clutched her notes and the USB drive her work was on tightly to her chest, her heart pounding with excitement and nervous energy. “Well this is it. I’ll see you later at school ‘kay. Wish me luck!” She smiled at Mireille as she left the couch to follow the man to the judging area.

“Good luck, Alya!” Mireille waved cheerfully which Alya returned before the door was closed behind her.

Shortly after, the short-haired lycée student got a notification letter her know her father was now waiting for her at the front. As, Mireille made her way down the stairs to the main lobby; she couldn’t help but think how great it was that Alya was choosing to do this report about her friend. But honestly, it did seem like a very good choice.

There really was only one person that Mireille could think of that fell into the category that the other reporter hopeful had described. It was sure to really impress the judges that Alya actually knew and was close to someone like that, and her presentation on them would no doubt be amazing.

After all… 

Marinette Dupain-Cheng really was a miraculous person.

_______________________________________________________________________

And there it is!

If I didn’t tag you, I’m sorry about that, send me a message and I will be sure to tag you for the next update.

I realized when I started brainstorming the next segment of this story that the connection from the first part to the climax was… lacking… and it was driving me CRAZY! I could not for the life of me figure out why the climax was not coming to me at all, I know what was going to happen and how but none of it felt right. That’s when I realized that the crescendo to that moment of truth that everyone is waiting for was not there. Therefore this story went from a two-shot story to a 3-4 part story. 

So now we have the proper set up. Alya has submitted her work and is about to face the judges. Gee! I wonder what will happen...?

Let me know what you all think. Also this story is now on FF.net, so if you guys want go ahead and check out this story there so you can leave your reviews and comments. Till next time!

[vividracing]

New Post has been published on https://www.vividracing.com/blog/top-5-best-intake-systems-for-the-toyota-tundra/

Top 5 Best Intake Systems for the Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra has mastered the familiar motto of “work hard, play hard.” Built in the heart of truck country (San Antonio, Texas), the Tundra can handle everything from a tedious daily commute to long road trips and trail adventures. Led by its available 5.7-liter i-FORCE V8 engine that has a towing capacity of up to 10,200 pounds and a max payload of 1,730 pounds, Toyota’s full-size pickup truck is ready and able to tackle anything that comes its way. The standard 4.6-liter i-Force V8 has an output of 310 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 327 pound-feet of peak torque at 3,400 rpm. The popular 5.7-liter version delivers 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 pound-feet of peak torque at 3,600 rpm.

If you are looking to amp up those numbers a bit without breaking the bank, upgrading the stock air intake system may be on your radar. Swapping out your truck’s stock restrictive air intake system will help your Tundra breathe in more air at cooler temperatures to have it running even better. Aside from improved airflow, you will also experience power gains, an enhanced soundtrack, and added underhood styling to boot. For the price point, you certainly cannot beat it and it’s no wonder why so many enthusiasts look to the aftermarket for a new air intake system as one of their first mods. 

We have compiled the following list of the top 5 best intake systems for your Tundra to help you along. Keep in mind that these are in no particular order but are based on factors like power gains, filtration properties, overall construction, and ease of installation. You can also browse our entire inventory of air intakes right here to see which may be the best fit for you. If you have any further questions, please reach out to us by phone at 1-480-966-3040 or via email at sales@vividracing.com. 

1. aFe Momentum GT Cold Air Intake System

·        

  The air induction experts over at aFe (advanced FLOW engineering) know what it takes to manufacture a high-quality, high-performing air intake system. aFe’s Momentum GT series are designed and tested around the specific performance needs of gas vehicle applications. The Momentum GT series focuses on specially engineered intake systems that utilize a smooth one-piece housing that keeps hot engine air out for maximum performance. The system uses a unique patent-pending filter-to-housing interface that enables the use of the largest filter possible for optimal results. The housing is constructed of heat-resistant cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) with an innovative design that minimizes the number of parts used to streamline the installation process.

This system also features a computer-designed, dyno-tuned intake tube that has been tested and proven to achieve maximum power gains while maintaining a perfect fit. Its XLPE material is heat soak resistant and extremely durable to stand up to the elements of both daily driving and off-road driving. The CAD-designed intake tube provides the largest cross-section possible to reach maximum volumetric flow rate and unleash the potential horsepower and torque of your Toyota Tundra. This cold air intake includes a 9-inch tall 360-degree radial flow air filter featuring aFe’s pre-oiled Pro 5R media with five layers of progressively finer cotton gauze media to provide your Tundra engine with the biggest amount of high-flowing air to deliver up to 20 horsepower and 33 pound-feet of torque.

Features: 

Dyno-Proven Gains up to 20 hp and 33 lb.-ft. of Torque

Outflows Factory Intake by 38%

Measured Flow: 241 CFM @ 1.5″ H2O

Durable XLPE Construction and Sealed Housing

CAD-Designed Roto-Molded Intake Tube

One-Piece Sealed Housing with Auxiliary Air Scoop

Protects from Impact, Extreme Temperatures, and Other Elements

Unique (Patent Pending) Housing-to-Filter Interface for Easy Installation

Washable and Reusable Pro 5R Air Filter for Maximum Performance

Clear Sight Window for Convenient Filter Inspection Without Disassembly

Learn More and Get It Here.

2. K&N Performance Cold Air Intake System

K&N’s Series 77 Cold Air Intake Systems eliminates air path restriction from the stock system by replacing the air filter and entire path to the engine with a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) roto-molded intake tube. The aerodynamically engineered intake tube drives a larger volume of air into your Tundra’s engine to deliver enhanced performance in addition to horsepower and torque gains. Each system is paired with a washable, reusable high-flow air filter featuring oiled cotton media. The oversized conical filter is composed of red cotton gauze media that captures more dirt and lets drivers go up to 100,000 miles between filter maintenance under normal highway driving conditions. What’s more, a custom heat shield or airbox is incorporated to help protect your vehicle’s air intake from the high temperatures of the engine bay.

Be it on the streets or the trails, the K&N Performance Cold Air Intake will deliver a boost in your truck’s overall power figures, while also providing better throttle response, added underhood styling, and an attractive sound to go along with it. Crafted from the highest-quality materials for ultimate longevity, you can count on K&N to offer a system that is meant to last. Mandrel-bent tubing allows for less restrictive airflow so your Tundra can breathe better and perform to its potential. With a solid aluminum intake tube, this CAI is able to withstand extreme underhood conditions without failing or breaking. This system offers a full bolt-on installation so you can easily and directly mount this cold air intake onto your vehicle’s factory mounting points in place of the restrictive factory one.

Features: 

Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower and Torque

Mandrel-Bent Aluminum Intake Tubing

Oversized Oiled Red Cotton Gauze Air Filter

Provides Improved Airflow and Exceptional Filtration

Improved Engine Sound for a Sportier Appeal

Replaces Factory Air Filter and Intake Tube

Filter Only Requires Cleaning Every 100,000 Miles

Straightforward Installation Process

10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty

Learn More and Get It Here.

3. Injen EVOLUTION Cold Air Intake System

The EVOLUTION cold air intake system from Injen will crank up the power of your Toyota Tundra in a complete, easy-to-install package that will deliver exceptional power figures, added underhood styling, and an aggressive growl to boot. Injen’s EVOLUTION sealed air intake systems were designed using the latest state-of-the-art engineering tools and methods to build the finest-quality kit that is unmatched on the aftermarket. In fact, Injen Technology designed and produced the world’s first tuned air intake system and holds four patents on the tuning process of an intake system – something no other manufacturer can claim. Such allows all of its air intakes to deliver proven horsepower and torque gains right out of the box without the need for expensive tuning. What’s more, the dyno-tuned intake tube funnels air at a precise rate past the MAF sensor so you don’t have to worry about check engine lights. 

The EVOLUTION Cold Air Intake System features a one-piece sealed housing that utilizes Injen’s patent-pending Twist-Lock technology to securely fasten the 8-layer oiled cotton gauze air filter in place. It also features a clear-view window so you can seamlessly inspect the air filter in between trips. The clear-view badge has a bold red stripe on it with a white Injen logo that really pops when you open your Tundra’s hood. Injen’s special technology has allowed its technicians to use the largest air filter available, which enhances the air volume and consequently results in increased power gains. Dyno tests show that this cold air intake will deliver an additional 14 horsepower and 13 pound-feet of torque for your Toyota truck. Installation is super simple as this system offers a reliable fit and was designed with fewer parts to provide the end-user with one of the swiftest, most manageable installations on the market.

Features: 

Dyno Proven Gains of up to 14 hp and 13 lb-ft. of Torque

Designed to Work with the Stock Calibration

Aggressive Intake Growl under Acceleration

Injen Clear-View badge for Simple Air Filter Inspection

Durable Roto-Molded Polyethylene Housing and Intake Tube

Reinforced Automotive-Grade Silicone Souplers

Fully Serviceable Injen 8-Layer Oiled Cotton Gauze Air Filter

Stainless Steel Band Clamps with Inner Protective Liner

Aggressive Underhood Appearance while Maintaining OE Fitment

Learn More and Get It Here.

4. Flowmaster Delta Force Performance Air Intake

Amp up your Toyota Tundra’s power figures with the Flowmaster Delta Force Performance Cold Air Intake.  Flowmaster is well-known for offering air intakes that not only provide proven results, but also spotlight a sleek streamlined design that adds styling to your engine bay for a more customized look. The Delta Force system features custom roto-molded black cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) high-flow intake tubing with black anodized fittings (when applicable), high-quality reinforced silicone couplers, and all stainless-steel hardware. Each and every component was strategically engineered to benefit “operation cool” and ensure your truck gets better airflow at lower temps. Installation is super simple, as no cutting or drilling is required, and there is no need for any tuning once it’s on. 

Flowmaster’s Delta Force series delivers the next step in attaining maximum performance and efficiency for your truck. This air intake system will provide your Tundra with up to five percent more horsepower and torque over stock while also reducing any heat soak. It features a large diameter high-flow conical-shaped 8-layer cotton gauze air filter, which captures more dirt than typical 6-layer designs. This intake also has a custom-fit black powder-coated air dam with attachment brackets to securely mount the system in place with soft bumpers to eliminate any metal-to-metal contact under the hood. If you are serious about quality and performance, then the Flowmaster air intake system will check all the boxes while looking good doing so.

Features:

Serviceable Lifetime High-Flow 8 Layer Cotton Gauze Filter

Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) High-Flow Intake Tube

Serviceable with our Delta Force Cleaning Kit

High-Quality Components with Custom Look

Includes All Necessary Mounting Hardware

No Cutting or Drilling for Easy Installation

Power Gains of Up to 5 Percent HP and TQ

XLPE Intake Tube Resists Heat Soak

No Special Tuning Required

Learn More and Get It Here.

5.  AIRAID Performance Air Intake System

  The AIRAID Performance Cold Air Dam (CAD) Air Intake System is specifically engineered to give your truck’s engine larger amounts of cooler air. By letting your engine breathe in better, cooler, and larger amounts of air, you are simultaneously unleashing its potential power in the form of increased horsepower and torque figures. AIRAID performance air intake systems feature an aerodynamically designed intake tube that accelerates airflow to your engine and reduces turbulence, thus helping increase your vehicle’s overall performance. This intake system retains the original location of your Tundra’s stock air filter but delivers a big boost with the addition of an open-element air inlet protected by the Cold Air Dam panels, which act as a heat shield to protect intake air from engine bay heat. This provides a steady free-flowing supply of cooler air from outside into your engine so that your truck gets the coolest air possible for optimal results. 

The AIRAID CAD-designed intake system for the Toyota Tundra utilizes a replacement low-restriction intake tube with a 360-degree conical premium air filter. This high-performance air filter is both washable and reusable as well as less restrictive than traditional paper filters and better at filtering the elements. The dry synthetic SYNTHAMAX air filter captures contaminants better than the stock Tundra filter and provides top-quality protection to keep your ride running healthier than before. AIRAID performance intake systems are engineered to provide a smooth, unimpeded path for airflow to your engine in a simple-to-install package that helps maintain proper air-to-fuel ratios. There is no need for any recalibration. Just bolt it on and be on your way!

Features: 

Increased Horsepower and Torque

Provides Super Filtration Properties

High-Performance Reusable Filter

Cold Air Dam Panels Block Out Hot Engine Air

Easy-to-Clean Oil-Free Synthetic Air Filter

Replaces Stock Air Box, Filter, and Tubing

Simple Installation Process Using Basic Tools

Washable and Reusable Air Filter Media

No Hassle Lifetime Warranty

Learn More and Get It Here. 

[spellbound-banshee]

And You Kissed Me - Peter Parker

Summary: You’re the one to make the first move after MJ tells you that Peter likes you. Of course she would be the one to tell you.

Warnings: lots of fluff, unwanted flirting, some physical violence

Pairing: Peter Parker (TH) x Reader

“You don’t know what you’re talking about MJ.” You waved her off, anxiously eating your lunch as you processed the new - and probably false - information.

“I always know what I’m talking about,” her response seemed effortless, “he’s definitely into you, have you noticed the way he ogles over you? It’s like a 90s movie where everything just sort of slows down and there’s a love song in the background.” You chuckled at the somewhat specific reference, but nevertheless continued to deny it internally. “You have to face the facts and make a move, it’s honestly a sin that you guys aren’t together.”

“Who said I liked him?” You asked, your mouth halfway stuffed with food as you saw the boy in question begin to walk over with his tray.

“You didn’t have to.” MJ just smirked and took a bite of her apple as Peter got closer. “Face it, he’s not going to make a move. And what’s the worst that could happen if you just... make one yourself?”

You were about to respond but just as you opened your mouth Peter set down his tray with a bit of a suspicious glance. “Are you guys talking about some girl stuff because I could just... walk away.” You just smiled and shook your head, hearing MJ chuckle at the chemistry you two clearly had. 

“Not at all, please do sit.” Peter smiled sheepishly and sat down in front of you, where he always sat. You weren’t aware of the fact that he sat there just to look at you and feel like he was actually having a conversation, but Peter and MJ knew. Which is why as soon as Peter looked back at his tray, MJ mouthed ‘make a move’, and you responded with a harsh glare.

-

“Hey, Peter?” You walked up to his locker as he was taking out the last of his things. He seemed surprised by your voice and shut his locker a bit so he could see you - you seemed to grow increasingly beautiful each period.

“Yeah, what’s up?”

“Are you doing anything right now? Like after school?” He swallowed harshly, he wasn’t sure what your intention was and he could literally never say no to you... but with his patrol he wasn’t sure if- “I was just wondering if you’d want to take the bus with me. There’s this dude on there and he’s... been kinda freaking me out but I don’t have any other way home.”

Peter didn’t hesitate to be your hero. “Oh, yeah, of course. Who is he? Did he like... touch you or hurt you because I’ll-”

“Easy there, tough guy.” You chuckled, putting a hand on his shoulder. Though you weren’t showing it, your heart was literally beating out of your chest as you replayed your plan over and over in your head. “It’s fine, he’s just overly flirty.” Peter let his guard down a bit but he would make sure he didn’t make you uncomfortable today. His chest swelled with pride in knowing that you felt safe around him, and his smile brightened at the thought.

Once you got to the bus, Peter was on guard. And you could definitely tell based on how stiff he was. “Okay Superman, listen.” His eyes darted to your face at the sound of your voice, his features softening as he looked down at you. “It’s okay, relax. I can handle myself I just feel like... maybe he’d leave me alone if I actually had a friend with me.” Peter felt his heart sink at the mention of ‘friend’ but once again, he nodded and tried to relax.

And your bus finally arrived, where you led Peter to the back of the bus, you usually there sat by yourself with a book and a pair of headphones. You smiled back at him as he walked shyly behind you, not having been on a bus for a while since he could literally swing himself home and take the sub in the morning. Peter sat with you in the back, taking the aisle seat as he figured he could potentially block you from... he didn’t know what, it just felt better.

That’s when Peter heard it: “Hi again, hot stuff.” He felt you shift in your seat as his friends behind him laughed and practically egged him on.

“Bradley, not today please.” You rolled your eyes, continuing to look out of the window as the bus started to move. Peter looked up at the senior, his dark hair was pushed back into a snapback and he wore a letterman jacket with school colors. He wanted to say something, but he bit his tongue, figuring you could handle yourself until it got too uncomfortable.

“What’s wrong baby girl?” Ugh, even he felt uncomfortable hearing that. “Come on, let me bring you to one of my games and you could... watch me win.” Peter cringed a bit, not wanting to sink into his seat but seeing you there just brushing it off made him feel like he could too.

“Yeah, I’d love to see you wrestle around with a bunch of dudes in the dirt.” You sighed, pinching the bridge of your nose, knowing it wasn’t going to stop even if Peter was there. “Please just... leave me alone.”

“If I do will you let me take you out?” Peter felt his body heat up, clearly this dude didn’t know what the word ‘no’ meant or how to properly talk to women. That’s probably why he couldn’t land one, the thought almost mode him smirk but he kept it down. “Oh come on, baby. Lemme take you out, I’ll show you a good time during...” He reached over his seat and started to reach for your hair, “and after.”

“Hey man, she said leave her alone.” Peter said, smacking his hand away before he could touch her - he also stood up so he could be level with Bradley, even though he stumbled a bit due to the motion of the bus.

“Don’t touch me, geek. She knows she wants it... she’s just in denial.” The way he looked at you nearly sent Peter into a frenzy, and you could tell from the way his breathing started to pick up. “Get out of my face.” The jock shoved Peter against the wall of the bus, and it didn’t hurt that bad due to his strength but it still startled him a bit. Now some heads were turning.

“Don’t fucking touch him.” You stood up, putting a hand in front of Peter as you saw him getting ready to launch at the jock. “Let it go.” You said softly, and from the way you were looking at him, he let out a breath and tried to calm down. “Come on, we can just walk the rest of the way.” Taking Peter’s hand, you began to lead him down the aisle with wobbly footing, knowing it would be worth it.

“So lame, the geek needs a girl to protect him.” Before Peter could even turn around you shoved past him and slapped Bradley directly across the face, hearing some cringes and ‘oohs’ from around the bus.

“Peter doesn’t need anyone to protect him. If anything I was protecting you from a fucking broken nose.” Peter just felt himself smile, seeing the jock having to recover from the force of the slap. His eyes also widened from seeing this new side of you, this defensive side, especially over him - it managed to be cute and hot at once. Stop it, now isn’t the time.

“I know you don’t actually need this bus to get home, but I do. So the next time I get on this bus, your ass better be walking to your fucking house.” Peter just stood there in sort of an awkward position, but unable to keep his eyes off of you and your angered figure. “And if I hear any more complaints about you harassing women on this campus, I will literally kick you into next Sunday, got it?” Bradley didn’t need to say anything, you knew it was more of a rhetorical question, so you grabbed Peter’s hand and practically stomped down the aisle. 

Your ears were ringing from the energy that rage took to get out, but you swore you heard some claps and cheers emerged from the bus seats.

-

“Thanks, by the way.” You said as Peter walked you to your house, even though you insisted he didn’t have to do that. It was a stupid insist for many reasons. 1, of course he wouldn’t leave you to walk alone. And 2, where else would be go?

“F-For what? I didn’t do anything.”

“I don’t think I would’ve done that if you weren’t there. And when he touched you I just... something clicked.” Peter just nodded, holding on to the straps of his backpack as he walked slowly beside you towards the complexes. It would be a long way, but it was worth it if he got to talk to you. “Sorry for making a scene. I just... I get defensive.”

“I’m just happy you stood up for yourself,” Peter smiled at you, “you don’t deserve that. Nobody does, but I’m positive you scared him, so it should be over.” You nodded, smiling sheepishly back at him, and once again he refused to make eye contact. “And uh... if it doesn’t and you.... want help I can... help you, y’know if you want.” You thought it was cute, the way he seemed to get nervous around you, and of course you just thought it was his natural awkwardness, but MJ made it apparent that’s not what anyone else thought.

“Thanks, Parker. I can always count on you.” And then there was a short pause, where all you could hear was passing cars and the sound of your shoes clicking against pavement. “Are you okay?”

“Me? Oh yeah, don’t worry about me. It didn’t hurt that bad, for someone so big and labelled as ‘tough’ you’d think he’d shove harder.” You laughed, throwing your head back against the wind and Peter just admired you with a loving glance. He almost couldn’t stand how beautiful you were, there wasn’t one thing to fixate on, everything about you just stood out to him and it was blinding.

“You’re funny, I think I’ll keep you.” Now it was his turn to laugh, and yours to admire. You had to admit he was one of the cutest kids at your school, which made you wonder why girls weren’t practically throwing themselves at him. Sure, he was considered ‘nerdy’ and he was pretty awkward, but he didn’t deserve the pushback he got for it. Peter liked Star Wars and building computers, and cheesy pop culture references, but he was one of the smartest people you knew. He was also the sweetest guy you’d ever met. He seemed like the whole package.

By the time you actually got to your house nearly an hour had passed, but it felt like nothing since it was filled with laughter and unknown loving glances. You spent most of it gaging how you should continue with your plan... how and if you should continue with it.

“Okay, this is me.” You smiled, guesturing towards the upper floors of the tall apartment building you lived at. Of course he knew, he’d been over a few times to help with homework where nothing ever got done, you ended up watching movies together on the couch and eating May’s awful cooking. “Thank you, honestly you didn’t have to come with me.” 

As you pulled him in for a hug, he chuckled lightly against your shoulder. “It was my pleasure honestly, I love hanging out with you.” You smiled at that, your heart pounding in your chest as the internal battle of thoughts began. “Thanks, by the way.” He said, pulling away from you and you gave him a curious tilted look. “For calming me down. It’s hard sometimes with me but you always manage to do it and i never properly-”

You kissed him. You were barely paying attention to anything he was saying you just... kissed him. As quickly as you had pecked him, you pulled away with a look of shock on your face, attempting to apologize profusely but the words were stuck in your throat. “...and... you kissed me.” He was just as shocked as you were, and you stood there in heavy awkward silence for a couple of seconds before you blurted:

“Yeah I uh... I’m sorry. I just... I like you. A lot.” You regretted the words the instant they came out, seeming to turn pale as the embarrassment and shame washed over you.

“What?” There it was, the inevitability of rejection - you felt overwhelmed with emotion, all of the worst thoughts beginning to take over your mind and heart. You were about to start crying until he uttered: “(Y/n)... I-I really like you too.” Your head shot up at his words, and he was almost surprised at how shocked you were. “(Y/n) I’ve literally... had a crush on you since... god, since elementary school.”

“Y-You have?”

“Yes! I-I thought it was obvious but... I figured you didn’t like me back so I didn’t say anything about it when we actually became friends because I didn’t want to mess anything up but...” He rubbed the back of his neck and chuckled, once again unable to make eye contact with you. “(Y/n), can I kiss you?”

Without a response, you just closed the distance you’d created by drawing back and pressed your lips against his. He was a bit surprised at the sudden contact but he tried not to hesitate, returning the kiss as softly as he could. Your hands grabbed both sides of his face, you could cry at how much raw passion and emotion you had bottled up inside. 

Peter felt your sudden urge grow and he felt himself beginning to match it, years and years of frustration, pure adoration and... love just pouring out at once. You opened your mouth and Peter felt your tongue slide into his, nearly pulling back at the sudden surprise but something about it just felt right. This was Peter’s first kiss, but he didn’t know - and couldn’t tell - that it was yours as well.

You pulled back for air, both of you wide eyed and staring at each other before breaking into giggles. Peter didn’t want to let go of you but he gave you space, you both needed to catch your breath. “Do you uh...” You chuckled at yourself, deciding fuck it and just going for it, “do you wanna get something to eat?”

Peter smiled endearingly, still love drunk from your lips and unable to focus on anything but you and your blinding glow. “Like... like right now?”

“Fuck it, right? Let’s just... let’s just get something to eat.” Peter chuckled at your state bliss, the love in his heart for you just growing more and more with each second he looked at you. “Yeah?” You asked, hopeful when you saw him smile.

“Yeah! Yeah, l-let’s go.” You two didn’t have a plan, but that’s what he liked about it - you lived in New York so you could basically stop anywhere nearby and get something cheap. And you felt alive, with Peter any moment felt new and rousing, and even though you didn’t know where you stood label wise, you decided to enjoy this moment.

Peter’s hard practically stopped when he felt your hand take his, smiling down at you as you showed him your brightest smile. He already felt so comfortable around you, as if you’d been dating for many years, and even though he didn’t know where you two stood label wise, he decided to enjoy this moment.

He hoped for many more years by your side. If you’d have him, of course.

-

taglist: @averyfosterthoughts

[namjoonchronicles]

dissertation | yg

↳ genre fluff, domestic, established relationship 

↳ words 3.1k

↳ summary many people doubted your union, how exactly an artist with as much influence as yoongi be a husband to a wife that is still studying. 

↳ warning that side of adulthood, lockdown because of pandemic, mentions of anemia

↳ song kodaline ‘saving grace’

It was a thunderstorm that night, when Yoongi laid in bed alone. Face shone by the light on his phone and he was squinting to see the news article clearer. He ran his fingers through his hair, scratching his scalp gently-- a habit he had. He glanced at the time mark on the top right corner of his phone, then to your side of the bed that remained empty. It’s 2:34 AM. Rolling several times over the width of the bed, Yoongi set his foot on the floor and made his way out the opened door where the light from the hall was still on. The ash blue hallway hall, and the wooden floor that creaks under his weight would not guarantee a smooth entry, but his concern was that you might have fallen asleep on the desk, although this was highly unlikely. He just wanted to check.

Took a peek, through the door gap of your study room. Lights on, papers everywhere, whiteboard filled with medical jargons he doesn’t understand. Your laser focused eyes, glasses sliding down your nose, pen in between your lips and typing sounds filled the room. Your purple pencil case unzipped with its contents scattered, next to the coffee mug. And the calculator facing down. Your phone is close by although Yoongi predicts it to be in silent mode. As it had been, since 2010. That’s why you never answer his call the first time. And when you’re in this study mode, an airplane could land in the living room and you wouldn’t even notice. Heck, if he was talking to you in this state, you would look at him blindly and heard absolutely nothing he said. Yoongi knows too well. After the short peek that went unnoticed by you, Yoongi waddled to the kitchen and ran the coffee machine to start.

He scratches his temple while he ensures the machine begins working, then walks to the fridge. Yanks it open to see what is inside. Some old ripen kimchi, newer batch kimchi, some milk and apples. He ran his eyes through several more things and took out two apples. He bought this for your fibre intake. The last visit to the doctor, you were recommended to take more fibres in, as well as iron because you are still anemic. Despite the considerable diet change by Yoongi, the blood count doesn’t project the effort. It was then decided by the nutritionist and doctor, together, that you have to take pills as well as monthly checks while they send your blood result to the lab for thalassemia management, if diagnosed. Yoongi carefully ran the apples under the water, gently. He begins to peel the skin with a knife, and then, wedges them. He places them in the bowl and by then, the coffee has started to pour into the mug he had prepared underneath.

The blue light from the screen is making you pinch the bridge of your nose. Creases begin to form in between your brow as the numbers you obtained from the experiment did not become tally to the theory, suggesting a mechanical error. With the restriction order loosening up, going down to the lab is allowed, but you figured that many other post-graduate students might squabble for a time slot to use the lab.

“Should have calibrated the thing before I started the experiment,” you silently cursed underneath your breath.

Yoongi pushes the door open with his back and reveals a tray, scuffling and making a lot of noise. He set the bowl with apples and switched the cold coffee mug with a new piping hot one. Your whole face lights up.

“Why are you not asleep yet?” you sang. Eyes following him. “How can I sleep, when you’re suffering like this,” he said in a straight voice, almost emotionless, that makes it hard to believe that he was being affectionate. But that’s Yoongi for you. “There were apples in the fridge?” “Don’t lie, we bought them together… If I don’t wedge them out like this, you won’t even eat it,” he nags, “Did you even take the pills for today?” “I did,” you shoved one wedge in your mouth.

“Before or after the coffee?” He was standing next to you and your head was tilting back to see him. “Before,” you chuckled through your nose.

Yoongi turned his attention to your work.

“Is there still a lot to do?” He mutters, kneeling by the table next to your chair. You comfortably circled your arm around his neck from your chair and buried your face in the crook of his neck, inhaling his scent and nodding as a response to his question. He smells like bedsheets, you thought to yourself. Yoongi’s wedding band shone under the bright light of your study room, and as he is careful not to disturb your work, he couldn’t help but worry about your mental state. He knows just how much stress you could handle and even if you weren’t shy away from an extremely stressful situation, it is the first for this kind of work environment. You told him that the mindset of working from home is entirely different from the ones actually working in the work area. But he always reminds you that, you weren’t working from home, you are at home, working.

“I saw the numbers and I knew that it was tally with the theory we learned in lectures, and have been hammering my head on what went wrong, so I checked on my methods and it was all correct, so it must have been the machine,” you turned to the side to see the laptop, still clinging onto him. Yoongi turns to the side and plants a kiss on your hair, standing up slowly.

“What do we do?” Yoongi leans his hip on the desk and folded his arm, looking down at you who is by now, pouting, helplessly.

“Either I go back to the lab and redo the whole painstakingly slow experiment, or just write the whole report and blame it on the error, and thicken my skin when my doctor screams at me for incompetency to run experiments, and ruin my credibility for the rest of post graduate pharmacy faculty,” you shrugged sadly.

Yoongi pouts too, now.

“Don’t stay up too late,” he gathers your head and sandwiched your face between his hands and kisses the skin between your brows, while your hand slid down his hip then over his butt, before grabbing the butt cheeks, playfully. You watch his back grow smaller and smaller as he gets to the door, leaves a gap between the door and the door frame big enough for an ant to enter, and leaves you to your work. You turned sideways to the word documents you have, and then to the calculations on the board on the far left of the room, and just, let out a massive sigh.

Several times the alarm clock vibrates on the bedside table next to you, and your hand would swiftly grab them to snooze mode, every single time. That eventually stops when the heat from the duvet chases you out and when you realise that it was no longer noon, it was actually almost 3pm. Your head pounds immediately, and even then you were counting the hours you slept to see if it was appropriate. Eversince the lockdown began, your sleep schedules have become even more disorganized. Doctor said looking out the window would help, but walking outside once in a while to get groceries proves to be even more helpful than the former. Yoongi always gets the groceries because he usually cooks. Now that the lockdown has slowly lifted, Yoongi started to go to the company building to resume his work, but you’re stuck at home because the university recommended studying from home.

Apart from having to use the lab now and then, there is no need for you to constantly be at the university. Even the lectures are held online, and assignments are submitted through emails. Group work is discussed through video conferences. But you’re an old school gal who always preferred to have her notes printed so you could scribble over the things you needed to do, and it makes organising tasks a lot easier. Walking into the study room, you saw the printer not where you set them. In fact, it has its own table with rollers on them, the cables are hidden and neatly bound by the computer, ready for use. The overall set up is neat. It made you smile first thing in the day. Because you knew who had done it that way, and you wondered how he made all this--assembling the tiny table and putting rollers on it, so quietly, that you managed to sleep through it.

At the office, Yoongi was just leaving a small meeting room. He has his facemask down covering his chin as he sifted through the papers handed to him by one of his staffs. The staff is standing nearby to wait on his comments. Upon waiting the staff realises that Yoongi had a bandaid on his thumb.

“A minor accident today, nothing to worry about,” Yoongi shrug it off and quickly turned the attention away from him, “...I think it looks pretty good, try to proceed with it first, and show me how it sounds.”

“Through email or Kakao?” “Kakao, because I don’t have the laptop fixed yet and the ones at home are out of discussion,” Yoongi added a chuckle at the end, slapped the staff’s shoulder and excused himself, just when his phone vibrated an incoming message. And a photo, sent by his wife.

“Babe?” - wife

It reads. A photo followed. Of the perfectly set up study station of his wife.

Yoongi smiled and dug his tongue to his cheek, clamping his lower lips between his teeth. He types a reply while leaning to one side of the office wall, by the hallway. Crossing his ankles.

“You’re welcome. Study well~~ Also, we’re having takeouts tonight.” - yoongi

The message chimes in. A jar of cookies in arm, you were nibbling on one java chip cookie while unlocking your phone to read Yoongi’s message. That’s strange. Takeouts?

“But I can cook. And its weekdays.” - wife

”Nonsense. You pulled an all-nighter last night. We are having takeouts. There’s this good new restaurant the staff had been hyping. Think we should go there.” - yoongi

”Okay… whatever you say then. <3 - wife

Yoongi shoves his phone in his back pocket and walks down the hall to his studio. On the way there, he passes by Hoseok who was just leaving.

“Where are you off to?” “Getting lunch, want to go get lunch together?” “Sure.” “Namjoon is joining us too, I’m waiting for his reply.” “Great…you guys decided where?” “There’s a BBQ house I know that sells really good broiled chicken feet.”

Twenty minutes went by since the last text with Yoongi and you had been staring at the calculation on the whiteboard thinking about Krispy Kreme’s premium donuts. You wonder if the outlets are open, as they should be because the lockdown never closed businesses. Yoongi would know, you figured.

“Yeah they are opened, Why?” - yoongi

“I am craving for the ones with the KitKat on, I think my period is coming on soon…” - wife

“We can have that as desserts later no problem, I sent you lunch, and it should be there in 25 minutes. - yoongi

“Yay! What are you having?” - wife

“Broiled chicken feet with Hoseok and Joon.” - yoongi

”That’s not...what you got me… right? - wife

”Of course not, I got you Kimchi jjigae with tofu, and some kimbaps.” - yoongi

Phew. For as long as you’ve gotten married, not once have you doubted that Yoongi wouldn’t understand your palate. But he is quite a prankster sometimes. Even if he is not as savage as your inlaws are, to put strange food in front of your plate, there’s a certain degree of cheekiness of him at stake. You were a bit of a picky eater should it hit you at a specific time of the month. Sometimes you could eat chicken liver with minor problems, sometimes you would vomit at the thought of it. Yoongi had been dealing with the latter, quite a few times now. You have about 3 blister packs of anti-nausea pills at home just to cope with it. Acquaintances and distant relatives would insinuate that you were pregnant, but that isn’t the case. Doctor said it would be difficult to have a baby with your anemia uncontained, and you and Yoongi both would not risk having a child while you were struggling with it.

It is just not worth the while. The risks are too great. Malformed, cleft-lips, premature--the list of risks are endless. Let mommy take care of herself first.

Hoseok drove to the restaurant he was talking about. They got a room to themselves, abiding the social distancing rule with several chairs spread apart. When the food arrives, Yoongi could understand why Hoseok loved the chicken feet. It’s savory down to the bone. He picks the pickled yellow radish with his chopstick and devours it with a mouthful of rice. Hoseok began asking if Yoongi would consider taking his wife here. Namjoon was sitting there answering a call, and had to leave the room so the sound of the grills didn't distract him from the call. Yoongi downed a glass of chinese tea before answering with a groan.

“She doesn’t eat those things. Chicken feet, gizzards, those weird smelling things that don't go away even when you cook it properly…” “Don’t she have that thing, anemic? Anemia, the blood disease?” “Yea, she’s on pills treating that, and I’m also fixing her diet, but she is plunged with work so she takes in more coffee, so that would disrupt the pills function, I heard from the doctor. The woman is a caffeine addict, I don’t think she’ll slow down anytime soon, especially not now.” “I see. She is pretty stubborn…”

Hoseok suddenly burst out laughing, and the reason was, “I remember that one time she went on a full force rant on why you shouldn’t place the picture frame where it was, how did it go though? She went like, why is it on the far left of the light like that…”

Yoongi’s eyes quickly disappeared as his smile grew wider at the memory. He remembers that day so well. You both just moved into the apartment you are living in now and several arguments were brought out as the apartment progresses into a living space and more and more things come in.

“I was the man of the house,” Yoongi pauses and, “So we hang it the way she wanted.”

When Namjoon walked in, Hoseok was full-blown laughing.

“You honestly think I would win against her? She’s a fucking scientist… It’s her world, I’m just living in it, bro.”

Yoongi’s lips pursed as he took another meat into his mouth and chewed, with one knee propped up. The boys continued to talk about their future plans. The games they could watch and eventually, work and where they are heading next. Namjoon was visibly cornered by it all so they were working out balancing work and passion, and it’s usually a difficult thing to do. They were lucky to be loving the job that helps put food on the table. But love can turn to hate so easily. Along the way, one could hate it so much, one could consider leaving it. It would feel like a good choice at the time, but eventually, they will think about longevity, and what makes money. Which is the reality of living.

Yoongi’s whole world is music. And your whole world is science. Both are the opposite side of the same coin. Through the differences, there are many quarrels and conversation shoved under the rug for later days. It is never comprehensible why one would do such a thing, in the perspective of a stranger, but when you are in a relationship, tolerance is as important as communicating, and the two go hand-in-hand with each other. It is only in a relationship that you see someone whose upbringing is so completely different from yours, try to understand the way you were brought up and the values you grew up with, the same way you try to understand theirs. They could be the one who mindlessly folds the doormat messily after they leave the bathroom and doesn’t fix it. Or they could be the one who is passionate about feeding cats but never cleans up after the poos. Or you could be so rigid in your ways of doing things that you simply cannot be flexible.

Or walk the room with their hair dripping wet and leave trails of water droplets around the house. Or leave the dishes in the sink unwashed because it's ‘only one mug’. Or they could use the coffee machine without wiping away the spills that could attract ants. Or have aesthetics that are so different from the ones you like. Maybe they prefer a cupboard with its insides all showing, no doors. Or like to collect designer shoes that cost more than the things you deemed more necessary than that of shoes. Or they might leave their shoes unarranged at the front step and it might drive you crazy how they continuously do this even after countless times, reminded not to.

Or how he is so thoughtful enough to send you the KitKat premium donuts you mentioned just hours ago. Or how he carefully ensured that extra tofu is added in the kimchi jjigae because he knows you love them. Or how he has those printers set up so neatly without you worrying how messy it looks. He had the motion-detecting LED light installed on the balcony so you don’t have to turn on the lights when you want to walk outside. Or how he throws everything away when you say you need to talk. Sure he might fall asleep halfway. Sure he flips the doormats when he leaves the baths. Sure he left his one mug in the sink and went to bed without washing it.

But he also waits 20 minutes for you to get ready because you lost track of time, reading your reports and spotting the error in your datas. And he also smiles when you climbed into the car, with a heaving chest and sparred breaths. And he orders your favourites quite fluently, down to the preferences and drinks. And you might love the way he looks when he is literally just existing. There was no one else that looked so mesmerizing the way he does when he drives. Or when he eats, or when he was thinking, and listening.

At the end of the day, it wasn’t the flipping doormats or the one mug in the sink that became the issue. It was who would still want to hold you even after all these years, in complete darkness and in the brightest day. It was who would still feel you were worth their time, despite having only 24 hours in a day. It is the person you fell asleep thinking of, and woke up looking at.

.

.

.

.

You keep me strong when I can't carry on

When you lose your feet, fall down to your knees and your heart's about to break I will be your saving grace When your eyes can't see, take my eyes from me When you're lost and losing faith I will be your saving grace

Be my, be my, be my saving grace Won't you be my, be my, be my saving grace

.

.

.

copyright © 2020 namjoonchronicles do not repost, and thank you for reading 

[jenniferxprentiss]

You Are In Love -> 9/?

chapter nine. three hearts.

Will had done exactly what Emily warned her he would do, told her he was coming and canceled a little under an hour before the appointment. The way he treated JJ and their unborn child never failed to fill Emily with a seething anger, heart racing and breath quickening at only the thought of him. She had to suppress a smile at the memory of the sickening crack when her fist connected with his face, easily one of the proudest moments of her adult life.

hi! okay. this has been SUCH A LONG WAIT for y’all. and I hope this little bit of fluff brings you all some joy as I get into the *real* plot of this fic. as always, the biggest of thank yous goes out to my group chat for always inspiring me and helping me with my writing — and reminding me to take breaks. without you all, this fic wouldn’t exist. so thank you. I love u all. ALSO. a oneshot & 2 chapters to fics in a weekend? y’all do be blessed.

tag list? tag list. lmk if u wanna be added xo. @jjsgirlfriend @whiskey-fluent @babyblockcolorcat @criminalmindsgonewrong @heat-waveee @anepiphany @j3mily @dont-trustyourfeelings @blakes-dictionxry @clockedstar @ellegreenawy

————

Fuck Will.

Fuck Will for being the deadbeat father she knew he was going to be, for stringing JJ along and never following through. Emily tapped her fingers impatiently against the steering wheel, stuck in bumper to bumper traffic — just her luck as she was trying to race across town to get to JJ before the sonogram, Will having stood her up.

She was so angry when JJ declined her offer to go with her in favor of Will, couldn’t describe the crushing hurt she felt. She tried to remind herself that she and JJ were nothing — not in a romantic way, at least, despite the stirring feelings she had been feeling for the other woman since she had moved in.

Another car cut her off and Emily slammed on the horn, yelling an obscenity out the window. She took a deep breath, remembered how sad and scared JJ sounded when she called, begging Emily to come to the sonogram only thirty minutes before her appointment.

Will had done exactly what Emily warned her he would do, told her he was coming and canceled a little under an hour before the appointment. The way he treated JJ and their unborn child never failed to fill Emily with a seething anger, heart racing and breath quickening at only the thought of him. She had to suppress a smile at the memory of the sickening crack when her fist connected with his face, easily one of the proudest moments of her adult life.

She swung her car into a space in front of the doctor’s office before jumping out and hastily shoving quarters into the parking meter. Emily took the stairs two at a time, burst into the waiting room and noticed that JJ wasn’t there, having already been taken back to an exam room. Her heart sped up at the thought of missing the appointment — of letting JJ down.

“Can I help you?” The receptionist directed a warm smile towards Emily, looked over her glasses at her and back to the computer screen. “First appointment?”

“I’m here for JJ — Jennifer Jareau.” Her words came out in a rush, heart still pounding and hands fidgeting.

The woman’s eyes lit up in understanding, nodding quickly as though she knew something before writing on a visitor’s badge for Emily. She handed it over, a knowing smile on her face as she watched Emily affix the sticker on her shirt.

“Your wife told me you’d be coming, said you’d probably be right on time. She’s through that door and in the first room on the left.”

“My — thank you.”

Emily couldn’t help the way her face heated up in a red hot blush at the way the receptionist said JJ was her wife. She knew it wasn’t anything they had done or said — most people don’t take their friend to the first sonogram after their ex-boyfriend cancels — but the implication still filled Emily’s stomach with a nervous flutter. She knocked on the exam room door, waited for a soft murmur from the technician before she opened the door slowly, stepping inside and shutting it behind her.

The sight of JJ reclined on the bed, towel thrown over her stomach made Emily’s stomach flip worse than it already was — her bright blue eyes wide and filled with nervous excitement. She barely registered the technician making a joke about showing up in the nick of time, smiled politely as she watched JJ mouth a silent thank you, her lips curling up into a wide grin.

“Are you guys ready to see your baby?”

Emily nodded hesitantly, stood dutifully at JJ’s side and let her fingertips graze her shoulder. She couldn’t look away from the blue of her eyes — the way her lips were still twitching up into a smile despite every tell that she was trying to fight it, trying to be as serious as possible. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the subtle swell of JJ’s stomach when the ultrasound technician removed the towel and squirted the gel onto her stomach, letting out a breathy laugh when JJ jumped at the temperature of the gel.

The small bump made her heart flutter, eyes transfixed on the slightly tanned skin, mind racing with all of the possibilities for the future — visions of an infant cooing in a crib while JJ looked down and sang. She felt a pang in her chest when she reminded herself that no, that may not be the life JJ wanted to give her child — and it was just that, hers, and not Emily’s. She was brought from her thoughts when JJ reached up, fingers wiggling until Emily grasped her hand and she visibly relaxed, only to tense up again when the technician pressed the wand to her gel covered stomach.

They both stared at the dark screen, eyes transfixed on the grey and black static until it finally focused — a little gummy bear of a baby jumping around on the screen. JJ let out a delighted gasp, lips curled into a grin as Emily wiped tears from her face. She hadn’t expected to be so affected by the image, but she already loved this little baby so much it hurt.

“There you go, mommies… there’s your baby.”

“Oh I’m not…” Emily started, hastily wiping at the tears that were rapidly falling down her face.

She wasn’t a mother, this wasn’t her baby — hell, JJ wasn’t even her girlfriend, merely a friend that lived with her and fell into her bed occasionally. A roommate, and she had already reasoned with herself that she would be beyond lucky to be able to co-parent and cohabitate with JJ and the baby at best — knew it may not be a likely scenario and didn’t want to get her hopes up, despite the excited flutter in her stomach she felt when she let herself sit and think about it for too long.

“Shut up. You’re mom too.”

“You guys make a great couple, I can already tell you’re going to be amazing parents.” The technician tapped at the keyboard before moving the wand around, pressing down on another spot. “I just have to grab a few more…”

“Take your time.”

JJ meant what she said — would have been content to sit there all afternoon and watch both the bouncing baby on the screen and the light in Emily’s eyes as she stared, completely transfixed by the image. It was a look JJ couldn’t quite decipher — love, she could tell, but a bit of something else that made her heart flutter and stomach flip. It was the same feeling she got when Emily’s fingers grazed hers in the car on the way to work, the giddy happiness in the pit of her stomach that no one else seemed to ignite.

“And I’ve got it. Thanks for being so patient with me, ladies.” The ultrasound technician pulled the wand from JJ’s stomach, wiping it clean before handing Emily a towel to clean the gel and a sheet of pictures. “I think that’s all for today… when you get cleaned up you can just check out and book your next appointment.”

They both murmured out a thanks as the technician stepped out of the room, Emily already wiping gently at JJ’s stomach and cleaning the gel off. It was like there was a trance between them — neither able to speak or look at each other, only the slight protrusion of JJ’s stomach as it really settled in that there was, in fact, a tiny baby growing inside of her.

“Emily…” JJ’s fingers grazed Emily’s wrist gently, looked up at her face and waited for their eyes to make contact before continuing. “Thank you. For everything… for coming, for doing this with me.”

“Jayje, you don’t even have to ask, you know I’ll always…”

“I meant it.”

“You — what…?”

There was a pause between them as Emily tried to decipher what JJ meant by her statement. Her eyebrows were knit together in a look of confusion, eyes half squinted in a way that made JJ let out a soft, airy laugh. After a moment, she reached up and let her thumb graze Emily’s cheek, smiling gently at her.

“Meant that you’re mom too, we’re doing this together… if you want to?”

It was a loaded question and they both knew it, and this wasn’t the place to have that sort of conversation. Emily knew she wanted to — wanted to raise this baby with JJ more than she had ever wanted anything, so badly that it scared her a little bit — but rationalized with herself that they should probably sit down over lunch and discuss it.

“We need to leave before they send another patient in.” She noticed the way JJ’s face fell, pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head before pulling her shirt down over her stomach and gently patting the bump. “Hey, this isn’t a no, it’s a we’re not having this conversation in this doctor’s office because I’ll cry. Come on, we both have the rest of the day off… I have plans for us.”

“Plans?”

JJ hopped off the table, letting her hand bump against Emily’s until she got the hint and laced their fingers together — fell into step beside her as they rounded the corner and walked to the checkout counter. They were understaffed for as many patients as they had, receptionists bustling around the circular desk as they tried to tend to everyone at once. Emily waved her wrist, signaled to them that they could take as long as they needed, before turning to JJ with a slight smile.

“I may have reserved a table at Olive Garden for us, and it’s right by this darling baby boutique I found on Facebook.”

She watched as JJ’s eyes lit up to that sparkling, shiny blue she adored so much, the way her smile reached her eyes and wrinkled her nose. It was endearing, the way her entire body seemed to thrum with every emotion, from the good to the bad, always feeling so deeply, so purely. Emily found herself hoping that the same energy — the same ability to feel so truly — would be passed on to the baby dancing about in her stomach.

“How do you always manage to make bad days better?”

“I just do, I guess.”

A receptionist hurried over to where they were standing, breaking them from their trance and snapping them back into the real world — a world where more existed than just the energy between the two of them. Emily couldn’t tear her gaze away from JJ’s subtle smile as she spoke to the woman, nodding enthusiastically, a few strands of shorter hair falling from her ponytail and shaking into her face.

JJ slipped the appointment card in her pocket as they walked out, entering the elevator hand in hand with giddy smiles on their faces. She almost hated the fact that they drove separately, wished she could sit beside Emily and bask in the happiness she was feeling, just be with her and present in the moment. There was never pressure with her — never any pressure to be more than she wanted to be, to carry on conversation when words seemed too hard — always content to just exist together.

Outside of the office, too many eyes on them, Emily found herself able to let out a breath she didn’t know she had been holding. She let herself look at JJ — truly look at her, the way her eyes were still shining and cheeks pinkened in what could only be described as a glow. The way her hair was falling in her face, having been shook free from the confines of her ponytail, was endearing — and Emily found herself gazing deep into JJ’s eyes as her fingers gently brushed the hair back out of her face.

The metallic grind of the elevator doors opening broke them from the moment, from their lips slowly gravitating towards each other as though pulled by magnetic force. They laughed, straightening up and walking out of the elevator, Emily’s hand on the small of JJ’s back as she guided her to her car just a few spaces away from her own.

“Follow me to the restaurant?”

“I’d follow you anywhere, Emily Prentiss.”

[smolbeandrabbles]

Mine - Killian x Reader (Spies In Disguise)

Well. Here is your introduction to this babe-!

GIF Credit: X

Mine / Blank Space / Feel Somethin’ / Glitter Makes People Happy / Fresh Start Fever /  The Scientist

Author’s Note: Sooooo... I’m using Tristan/Killian interchangeably throughout the series, as I wrote the majority of this part before I watched the movie and really had many more thoughts on him, for now he’s referred to simply as Killian. I have waaaaay too many plot points to work through with this man. So, here we are!

Part 1 of a 5 part movie prequel series. So, there’s quite a lot of set up. As usual, bear with me! Note: Just because I sometimes like talking about my OCs/Readers - this reader was originally created in 2014 - I’ve already used most of her aesthetics elsewhere but... it’s nice to get to use the parts of her I scrapped here. The joys of Killian being cybernetic, I guess!

Disclaimer: I own no characters or plot lines from Spies in Disguise / Lyrics not mine. / Some of this is Ben Mendelsohn in promo interviews’ fault...!

Premise: After a particularly rough interrogation encounter, Killian takes you to safety in order to recuperate... 

Words: 3282

Warnings: N/A. There aren’t any spoilers for Spies... in here, but to be on the safe side, proceed with caution!

_______

I was a flight risk, with a fear of fallin' Wondering why we bother with love, if it never lasts I say, "Can you believe it?" As we're lyin' on the couch The moment, I can see it, Yes, yes, I can see it now Do you remember, we were sittin', there by the water? You put your arm around me for the first time You made a rebel of a careless man's careful daughter You are the best thing, that's ever been mine Flash forward, and we're takin' on the world together And there's a drawer of my things at your place You learn my secrets and you figure out why I'm guarded You say we'll never make my parents' mistakes Do you remember all the city lights on the water? You saw me start to believe, for the first time You made a rebel of a careless man's careful daughter You are the best thing, that's ever been mine

You said, "I'll never leave you alone" You said, "I remember how we felt, sitting by the water. And every time I look at you, it's like the first time. I fell in love with a careless man's careful daughter. She is the best thing that's ever been mine."

---

* System Failure * -> Reboot Required --> Recalibration in progress ---> Reboot whole system? -----> Full system reset in operation -> Standby... 5...4...3...2... Rebooting.

 You opened your eyes slowly, everything hurt. But it was a strange pain that seemed to dull with every second of regained consciousness. Everything was too bright and you grumbled to yourself and shielded your eyes - burying your head into whatever you were lying on. But with your body complaining at you, it was impossible to lie here and fall back to sleep - and even more impossible for a slight feeling of unease to not creep over you.

You hadn't fallen asleep here. In fact you couldn't even remember falling asleep... And the scratchiness of whatever you covered you wasn't sheets. Your eyes opened again and you realised from the polished grey flooring you weren't in a bedroom either. You sat up - grasping immediately for the jacket falling from your shoulders - to keep that warmth around you.

You slipped off the plush couch, drawing it around you, stretching your legs out. they still complained at you, but you were all but ignoring them now.  The simple black dress you were wearing came to barely above your knees - had you even been wearing that? - why was your memory so fuzzy? You took a deep breath - and that helped nothing. Your heart suddenly leaping out of your chest at something so familiar to you; the scent of his cologne. You would have scanned the room for a clue of some kind - shoes? Heels maybe? This was a suit jacket after all...  Dinner? That's what the attire said. But it wasn't what the scenery said. You kept walking towards the bright white reflecting through the window.

 You found yourself staring at a seemingly endless mountain range - pure white snow covered nearly everything. The window seemed to also stretch for infinity, even in its many panels - curved around this side of the house. You stared hard at the breath-taking view for a minute. How gorgeous the blue of the sky was today… You pulled that jacket around you tighter still, looking to the stone below you carved smooth in order to build this base up here. The helicopter stationed on its pad let you know he was probably still home. But as you drew your gaze up, along with your smile, you noticed something else. And had to drop your grasp on the jacket - it lay itself over your shoulders, as if it was just as unwilling to let go of you - and you gasped, examining your wrists. They were faint, but both of them held ligature marks. You stretched them out in front of you. That looked bad - that looked very bad... You rubbed them, as if hoping that would also bring the memory back - but nothing. Holding them close to your chest you bit your lip, hard, and looked out to the mountains again. There was nothing you loved more than being here. But this time was different. And it was the first time you'd ever been fearful.

 The footsteps echoed down the hallway, but you didn't turn until you heard them descend the steps into the living area. Step, step, step. Now you knew there should have been two more - so the pause made you turn. Killian was leaning against the wall, looking you over curiously. He was wearing your favourite deep blue shirt, and the jacket to go with his suit was clearly still around your shoulders. "You're awake. I thought it would take more out of you than that. I'm surprised..." You turned away from the window fully then, "...I can't..." "Remember anything?" He stepped forward, two steps and then across the room in slow strides. Somewhere in the back of your mind you knew you should be scared of this man. That it was something you'd been told often... Or... At least recently; it was just about reachable in your memory. But you weren't. And you knew that you never had been by the smile you felt developing on your face. "I'm sorry..." His voice was soft, "I'm working on that... It's not as easy as I wish it were." "What happened?" "Lance Sterling happened, as ever. It took me about 4 days to locate you - I'm sorry. You kinda got yourself out..." He indicated to your wrists. "But it took a lot out of you, so I brought you back here to recuperate." "Killian..." You breathed, remembering the name, and looked back to the window, "...I'm sorry." You knew it was probably a lot of trouble and time he didn’t have to even pick you up – and if they had found a way to track you, this sanctuary was no longer safe. "Woah..." His footfall now put him directly in front of you - and his fingers touching your skin shocked you, making you step away from him with wide eyes. Killian dropped his hands; "I'm sorry... That's an effect of your recalibration." He tilted his head frowning; “…But you don’t need to be.” Sorry; he meant. Somehow you knew the right thing to do was say "What have you done to me this time?" "I told you - I'm not messing with your tech. But sometimes you're reckless and you drain your human body. Just because your legs can carry you forever doesn't mean they should." You couldn't really remember him telling you that, but you took his hand back in yours - senses running on overdrive, you could feel every ridge in his fingertips; "All you need is rest, Y/N... And you'll be fine. I was just coming to check on you... It'll be the chip..." He indicated to the couch again, "Please sit."

 You inexplicably trusted this man - and you did as he asked with no questions. Killian held out his hand and you knew to put your right in his. Watching him press down for a number of seconds something mechanical clicked, and your right arm lit in sparodic places before a tiny compartment opened up. But something in your head was still telling you this was routine.  He had a small device with him, and he plugged it into the compartment. Immediately it beeped. Brain too fuzzy to decipher the numbers you were squinting at; it didn’t take him nearly so long to sigh deeply and chide you; "Your heart rate is elevated... You don't need to be afraid of this..." "I know." But did you? Killian nudged you as further data flashed up; "No you don't... You're running on your chips; your brain is still dormant. And I told you I wasn't going to run you like this." He shook his head, muttering “I knew those idiots would never listen. The tech is too smart for its own good… And they’re too stupid to calibrate it properly.” You thought that was a little ironic considering Killian had just confessed he’d probably done the calibration wrong himself, but thought better to hold your tongue. Besides, all he did was leave you confused; "Meaning what?" He turned his blue eyes back on you, unsure if he should go on. But gave it to you in its simplest terms; "You're sleep walking." "What?" How was that possible? You were conscious, right? Sleep walkers usually had no idea what was going on. You might not remember anything prior to this, but you were aware this was really happening right now. "You won't remember this when you wake up... But you'll remember everything else." So why should he bother explaining it in technical terms you would actually understand, when Killian knew he would just have to do so again later. "Sleep walking?" "I'm talking to a computer. That's creepy isn't it? I told you - They should never have performed the operation..." "But you're glad they did. Or I wouldn't be here. And then where would you be?" That also felt like something you were supposed to say – that he had told you enough times. "Hush..." Killian brushed his hands over your exposed legs, and you gasped, "You feel this?" "Yes." And this time you were aware of your elevated heart beat, and the heat of his palms on your thighs – test or not. "Then your body will be fine. And when you actually wake up, we're talking about that chip. I'm for taking it out of you. For now, you're going back to bed." You looked to the little device again, more than a little scared. What would he do? Force a system shut down?

"Y/N..." You looked back into his eyes, "Whatever your warning system is telling you, you're going to fall asleep naturally. Don't start thinking I'm using this. You're safe." He unplugged it very carefully, every movement slow so you could track it, before he stood - "But you can follow me..." You did as Killian asked, and walked with him up the corridor. But it wasn’t long before he tapped one of the many doors. "Bed. Rest. Now." Then he walked to places unknown. Your eyes followed him for a little while until he was out of sight, and your heart seemed to sink – you missed him already – before you opened the door and found yourself in a bedroom. Again, something about this was so familiar. And you instantly felt tired. You knew the bed was a soft, warm, safe space and smiled. That man was right.

 **

 When you woke again, you wished you hadn't. And everything hurt. For real this time. Sometimes being cybernetic wasn't all it was cracked up to be - and that was the last time you tried to snap handcuffs in an interrogation room to escape.  Killian was who they really wanted, of course, but you were (on occasion) his assistant, and the H.T.U.V would take what they could get... And… well, you were also a lot more than that. So they probably had surveillance footage of the two of you together in many places. You were never trying to actively hide, an easier target than the man you were with. You sat up, head throbbing. And the next thing you heard was a series of beeps. You turned around; "Oh god. Can't you give me 5 minutes?" Your shiny blue metallic assistant drone, KiTT, whined at you sarcastically again. And you wanted to kick it. "Yeah, I'm aware... Where's Killian?" More beeps "Oh. Figures..." He’d probably sent your drone up to check on you; sometimes that proved less helpful than he wanted. You stood and almost immediately stumbled, having to rebalance yourself; "...Sometimes I really hate my parents..." This hadn't been your decision after all. Everything from your waist down - and a major portion of your arms were now cybernetic. To look at you, you were a regular human, but there was nothing regular about what was underneath your skin (synthetic or otherwise). It had been caused by a lab explosion that should have taken your life, more than ten years prior.  This tech would save it, for a price your parents would pay. And here you were. You took your steps slowly up the corridor as the two parts of your body readjusted themselves to Killian's new calibration. You already didn't like it.  And he would, as always, love your complaining. Meeting a man with as much of a knack for robotics as you wasn't coincidence. But he was something else entirely – he was almost too smart to be just the person he was. Sometimes you wondered why he wasn’t a little more legitimate, or why he wasn’t just a scientist himself. You suppose it ran further back than he was prepared to admit to you. And everything was always so shady when he was out here and you were calling him by a different name… He financed things less than legal, and you were pretty sure he made all his money the same way. Still, it always came back to technology and it was where both of you were most at home. When you reached the labs, all was strangely quiet.  KiTT continued to follow you, a nice dull hum that you had grown used to over the years, and were oddly lost without no matter how damn annoying it could be. You didn’t like the thought of Killian down here alone and left to his own devices, but you supposed this was only for your sake. He would rather be out there with his various factions – doing whatever it was they all did on a daily basis. You already knew none of it was good. When Killian dropped you back in civilisation he’d go off and get Lance and co chasing him around again – and you’d go back to the innovation lab you worked at, until he needed you or you saw him again – sometimes just by happenstance. And that’s how life was. You paused every so often at various research stations and abandoned work benches. Killian clearly hadn’t been alone long, and whatever he was working on seemed huge. Nightly news reels were calling, you could feel that.

 You eventually found him, sitting staring at research. By now your assistant had flown over to another part of the lab, to continue the work Killian had put him on before sending him to check on you. “What have you got KiTT doing for you?” “Nothing you wouldn’t have him do...” You glanced suspiciously from your other half over to KiTT, welding pieces together “He’s not YOUR assistance drone.” Killian kept his blue eyes on his monitor for a moment, “You’re the one who won’t tell me who built him.” “I built him!” You took immediate offence to that, and folded your arms. “Yeah But you said it yourself, he was a kit.” Which Killian always assumed was where his name came from “I modified him a little...” You continued to watch, concerned as KiTT carefully drew out and inserted vials of vibrant liquid into whatever he was building. Killian sighed, knowing that look well “If you don’t want me to use him, I’ll stop. But then either you have to get more involved - and you want to be the neutral one - or I need the name.” “I get worried he’s gonna get hurt!” That was a No, then. “I sent him to look after you.” “So you didn’t have to deal with the sarcasm any longer?” Killian gave a shrug, that accompanied his smile, hitting a few keystrokes - “He doesn’t sass me.” “Yeah I bet-! Too scared!” “Am I scary?” Right now no. But he damn well could be – you’d seen the outcomes of this line of work. “Intimidating. Up there at the lofty heights of... 6...?” “Classified!” You scoffed “As if your height is classified.” “Definitely is.” You squinted at his monitor, now more interested in whether that would tell you what your drone was doing; "What are we stealing today?" He chuckled; "No. I'm just researching." "Yeah, what to steal next." You leant against his desk, eying him; "Do you ever stop?" "Do you?" He turned to you slowly, fixing you with blue eyes that could easily see right through you. Sometimes he made you feel guilty even when you had nothing to hide. You held your hand’s up defensively, knowing he was immediately talking about the interrogation; "I didn't say anything!" "No. I know that." "Going through my memory bank now-!?" Your eyes narrowed in suspicion. If Killian had access to the chip, he could do whatever he wished. "I would never do something like that. I just know you. How are you feeling?" At least you knew him well enough to know that was true, and you appreciated his concern. "...I... Guess I've felt better..." "Well. Yeah, your calibration went wrong - my mistake." "Sorry!?" Killian wasn’t usually one for making mistakes, let alone admitting to them when he did. "I need to take that chip out of the base of your brain, I think." You scoffed, "And kill me? That's the reason all this works!" You presented yourself to him. "I know..." He held his hand out for yours, attention now all on you, voice low, "But I don't like what it's doing to you. I can make a better one." "Ehhh... Should I trust you?" You allowed Killian to pull you to him, and wound your arms around his shoulders. It was really a rhetorical question, if he wasn’t tuning up your robotics you were doing it yourself. "If it's the only thing you do." "Complex operation?" Though you knew the answer before he gave it. "Majorly." He gave a shrug; "I just want that thing out." His fingertips ran up your back, halting at the top of your neck; if he pressed down hard enough he could feel the offending object under your skin. You knew Killian wouldn’t say something like that without reason – you doubted even this man would risk your life, you traced your hand up to meet his, fingers lacing together; "...What happened?" "Well, it can wake you up without you being conscious - that's the stuff of nightmares. And that knowledge alone should be enough to convince you!" You opened your mouth; "Do...I want-" "No." He pulled you onto his lap and tucked your hair back, "I'm going to need to repress it. Your entire system rebooted and took you with it. Not good - probably my fault. But it's not doing it again..." He indicated to his other screen, upon which displayed a schematic of your robotic and synthetic material - "I'm going to put in a fail safe." Killian always explained everything he did to you in great detail, and only tuned you up if you agreed to it.

You narrowed your eyes, sitting back against his chest; "I thought you took the last one off…?" "Yeah... I did. Because that one was holding you back. Whoever made this for you decided to give it one basic function." Killian also only messed with anything if it was going to perform better than what was already there. "Which is?" "To function." You could have finished that for him. They taught you how to use it. The basics. But let me show you how to employ it. The potential of what you have should be realised, Y/N! You weren't sure it wasn't for his own ends. But one thing was for sure, until he showed otherwise, you'd trust Killian and his judgements. "Do it." You weren’t even sure you wanted to hear the what or why – you trusted him implicitly, whatever he would do for you would be for the best. You almost slipped from his grip; thinking the conversation was over – before he pulled you back, hands taking yours; "Hold on. I have to test it all first, I'm not just putting that chip in you..." You turned back to him, "Oh! And here you had me all excited!" “It’ll be finished in a few days. I don’t want to put you through a complete system overhaul twice in one week.” You folded your arms with a smirk; “This is just a ploy to keep me here all to yourself, Killian, isn’t it?” He rolled his eyes, question left unanswered, "Now hush for a minute and tell me which diamond you like best?" You made yourself more comfortable in his arms and studied the screen; "So you are stealing diamonds." "Yes. We're stealing diamonds..." He kissed your hair gently, making you absentmindedly smile and nestle further into him; "Now pick one!"

---

Hit me up - he’s not going anywhere! This is only fic 1/? (All Five parts of this are also started. FYI 😊😉)

Note 2: I had a plot point to do with the drones that I kinda had to kill due to the movie... - but I wanted her to have one as an assistant, so. Here’s KiTT. I’m keeping him.

Who do I even tag?! Are we all interested in animated bois voiced by Ben Mendelsohn fics?  @xxstar-bluesxx​ - Thank you for your patience! 💜💙😊 @3134045126​ - my girl 😉 Just you wait-!

@dennismitchell @happyskywhale @wltz-bby #MendoTagSquad.

[half-heaven]

Cresswell Au day! tlc ship weeks. Its apart of the Au ship weeks series that i made so i your confused about the chapters then thats why

yeah i should've done this earlier.

Starbucks AU

Chapter 2, Real

___________________________________________________________

Cress sighed. It had been a tiresome day.

She wasn't good with large crowds of people, or with small groups of people, or with a few customers in the store, or well...she just wasn't good with people. She had tried, lord knows she tried her hardest. But her fainting that one time at the register made it clear that she was not suited for the socializing part of the job. So Scarlet put her in the Drive-Thru. Cress's job was to take the orders, she never complained though. She wanted some freedom from her room back home, so she would take any job. Her father said that her working wasn't necessary, that he provided more than enough money for the two of them working as a scientist. Cress didn't care. She just wanted to have a semblance of freedom, she wanted to get out and experience things. She wanted to conquer this social awkwardness, courtesy of staying inside and programming since she was ten. She was going to, at least, try.

Cress heard another round of orders being said into her headset. She typed quickly, not missing a beat. She blew upwards, her actions clearing her vision of the loose hair. She told them to drive to the window. They pulled up next to her window and she took the money carefully to not to drop any. She thanked them and they pulled up to the next window. Thorne's window.

Thorne had been her crush for her entire time working here and in highschool. She would dare say she loved him but that might be a bit overdramatic. She had seen him a few times in school but never really knew him. He had graduated last year, and with that came the overabundance of signatures in yearbooks. Most of the yearbooks were owned by girls. Hers was one of them. She thought he was incredibly handsome and had developed feelings for him, which is why she had nearly screamed when he unknowingly signed her yearbook. That was why she was stoked when she happened to talk to him on the first day of her working here. He was so kind and supportive towards her, so kind in fact that she had nearly asked him to marry her right then and there. Thankfully, she didn't. He had a girlfriend.

Darla.

She very much disliked Darla, hate was much too strong of a word. Though with how much she disliked her, hate might be the right word.

1. Because Darla was much too aggressive, with Thorne, and with other men.

2. She was cheating on Thorne, well Thorne was cheating on her too but that wasn't the issue here. He flirted with every girl in the cafe, including the staff, accept for Cress. He also collected many numbers via Drive-Thru window.

3. Darla had called Cress a middle schooler. Cress was in her junior year of high school.

4. Darla was fake. Not like silicone, well she might as well have been. She was obviously not sporting real curves. That irked Cress because she lied about it.

5. Winter did not like her. Winter liked everyone. If she didn't like Darla that meant bad news.

Why couldn't Thorne found someone better, someone real?

'Someone like you?'

Cress blushed. Why must her mind be so blunt? Maybe she hadn't given her enough of a chance? No, she had. She had tried to befriend her but Darla just gave her a dirty look. Cress could tell she was one of those girls who would talk about you while in your presence. If you asked what they were talking about they would lash out and tell you to mind your business. Cress had dealt with a few girls like that in highschool.

'Even Sybil was more tolerable.' Cress thought.

Another car pulled in and Cress greeted them. She mustn't lose focus. She heard laughing. She turned her head in the direction of the noise and found Thorne looking at her. Her face heated up and she whipped her head back to the computer. She took down the orders and told them to head to the window. She turned her head a bit and glanced to see if he was still looking at her. He was. She slowly turned her head to the computer again.

What was she supposed to do?

The car outside the window honked. She jumped. Cress hurried to open the window and took the money. She muttered a few apologies to the customer before they drove to the next window. She can't lose focus! Not even for Thorne...

She glanced at the clock overhead and took a breath. Her shift change was soon. Hopefully, she would make it through.

There wasn't any activity in the drive-thru for at least 30 minutes after the last customer. This wasn't really all that strange but on a busy day like today, it made her wary. Emilee would be switching with her soon so she just leaned back against the wall and relaxed. She glanced out the window. A car drove by. What?

Cress turned around and caught sight of Darla and Thorne making out through the window. She heard Cinder gag. Cress felt her heart squeeze. It hurt. Why must it hurt? She blinked rapidly to keep the beginning of tears from spilling over. How troublesome.

She looked back up at the clock and breathed through her reddening nose. Shift change. She was grateful to have a moment of peace. She needed to get a grip.

If it hurt this much, could it be love? Maybe...

She walked by them to the back room. She sat on one of the benches and breathed. This wasn't worth it. She decided that she had to get over him. It was the only way she would be able to keep working here while they were dating. She heard Emilee's voice after a few minutes. Thank god.

The door to the break room opened and Thorne stepped through. It wasn't his shift change with Kinney so what-

"Are you okay?" He sounded genuinely concerned. She felt another tug at her heart. She didn't want to worry him.

"Y-yeah, just a bit tired." Her voice sounded a lot more vulnerable than she had anticipated. She looked up from her lap and her breath caught. His eyebrows were furrowed and his eyes seemed...sad.

"Why are you lying?" He asked quietly. She felt her body stiffen.

"There's no need to. We're friends right?" His voice sounded hurt, genuinely hurt.

"Of course! I just...I just don't feel comfortable around Darla is all." She decided to be honest. Honesty is the best policy, in some situations.

"Did she bother you?" He sounded a little more angry. She blushed a bit.

"N-no, I just feel a bit uncomfortable around her. She didn't really do anything." She lied. Darla did do something.

'She was your fake, obnoxious, and rude girlfriend.' Cress thought.

"Are you sure? I'd be willing to talk to her for you." No! that's the last thing Cress needed.

"No! I-I mean, no. It's fine. I just need to get used to the- the-,"

"The fakeness?" He smiled, " I heard you mumbling while you were working."

"What! Oh, my stars! I'm sorry! I didn't really- well I did but- I mean I-," She was red, unbelievably red. She was also ashamed, very much ashamed.

"Nah! You're fine. I completely agree with you." He laughed.

"Then why do you-" She was confused.

"My friend was trying to get her out of his bed. So he asked me to ask her out, being the good friend I am, I did, haven't been able to shake her off since." He said tiredly. Cress felt bad for him.

"Have you told her how you feel?" She felt a bit more comfortable. So he didn't like Darla. No! She mustn't get her hopes up.

"Yeah, she slapped me." He said rubbing his cheek. She gasped.

"Are you okay?!" He stared at her then smiled.

"Yeah." He said smiling.

Cress blushed. Why was he so handsome? Why did he make her heart warm and fuzzy? Why did she have to like him so much?

"Carswell-y!" A sickeningly fake sweet voice said.

Thorne sighed and glared at the door. Cress looked down at her lap.

Oh boy.

The door burst open and the girl flipped her hair back from her face. There was a man on her arm. He looked like a frat lord.

"Carswell, this is Leo. Leo, this is my ex-boyfriend. Ta Ta~!" She then skipped out with the man on her arm. Thorne looked a bit shocked but no pain crossed his features. He smiled. The smile was so big, Cress thought he would start a song. She smiled along with him. He looked at her and winked. She thought she heard the blush rush to her cheeks.

"Well, it looks like I'm off the hook!" He cheered, "good thing too, she was not my type." Thorne shook his head and headed to the door. Cress spoke before she could stop herself.

"Then what is your type?" She asked. She blushed again. Curse her ever-questioning mouth. She prepared herself for the backlash.

He turned and looked at her. He let the question hang in the air for a few seconds. He smiled, warm and bright. Cress felt her heart beat quicken.

"Someone real." With that, he closed the door and left Cress to blush.

________________________________________________________________

Thx for reading 💕 ( yeah i've never worked at starbucks so sorry if its not completely accurate.)

[olderthannetfic]

Vidding absolutely counts as a fandom, and Escapade is key to the history of vidding.

Notice how the terminology shifts over the course of Escapade: The first year, it’s ‘songtapes’ being shown, then ‘songvid’ or ‘song video’ predominates for much of the 90s, and then we move on to ‘vidding’ and ‘vids’.

The vidshow moves from being more of a curated presentation of old favorites to having a lot of premieres. It goes from just one night to two, then back to one. Vidshow panels where you just watch vids for a whole panel slot come and go. In 1998, vid review starts up: This is a Sunday morning panel for in-depth critique of the vids shown the previous night and is a famously contentious part of the con. And then there was this:

2002, Friday, 6pm - VividCon Discussion (Come discuss the proposed VividCon, tentative time/location, August/Chicago.)

Yep. Escapade was where Vividcon was born!

By 2008, people were talking about how vidding had moved on from Escapade. In 2011 a vidshow retrospective was added to try to counter the lack of vidding-centric programming. There was a big resurgence for a few years, including such hard-hitting topics as:

2016 - Vidding Aesthetics (”Why is there so much show audio in this vid?", "Why didn't that cut hit on the beat?", "What do you mean 'Cheesy?' She's Celine Dion!" and other immortal questions of vidding aesthetics. If you've ever watched a vid, we want your opinions.)

Why yes, it was my panel. Why do you ask?

There were rounds of warnings wank, caused by Oz vids and by that time Absolute Destiny sent a vid of a violent coming of age film.

Check out this 1994 panel description from Fanlore:

"[The technology in fandom panel] included several things that people can now do in-home that they couldn't do five years ago: cutting and splicing songs on Macintosh computers (to remove inappropriate choruses, verses, or the word "girl"); the soon-to-be-easier ability to select different people from different clips and combine them onto a new background (also for songtapes); printing vhs video frames directly to computer screens, printers and/or color copiers (for fun); and zines and/or libraries on disk. Most of the new technology possibilities were followed by comments that the actual work we can do is illegal [...]. Which comments were followed by the statements that seventeen years ago, writing and publishing a slash fanzine was illegal.... [...] a few people [...], talked to me at different times throughout the con about getting accounts or modems [...]”

This is interesting not just technologically but aesthetically. Is the word ‘girl’ bad in a slashvid? Different communities have disagreed.

Conversations about digital vidding and digital vs. VCR really heated up around 2001, much later than you might expect if you’re coming out of an AMV background. While most of Youtube vids on Sony Vegas--a Windows-only program--at Escapade, Mac has been the norm.

The topics that have remained big are vidding aesthetics, including things like how to make an effective pimp vid, discussions of hosting options and where the community is hanging out now, and how-tos for people who want to get into vidding.

(And before anyone asks, the answer is that you should download DaVinci Resolve because it’s free and cross-platform. And you should encode with h.264 because it’s widely compatible.)

The 2020 vidding panels are:

Vidding 101: The Vid Bunny Farm So you’ve had an idea, and it’s gnawing on your leg? Or maybe you have too many vid ideas and can’t choose? Or you want to make a vid but don’t know where to even start? Aspiring fan vidders, unsure-vidders-to-be, and experienced vidders welcome alike to share vid bunnies, brainstorm together, and talk about the processes of conceptualizing a vid.

Vidding Genres Then & Now We’ve come a long way from “living room vids” vs ‚”con vids‚” or have we? Let’s talk about evolving fanvid genres, from ship vids to AU vids to multivids, from character vids to fake trailers, from genre-bending vids to long form vids to cosplay music videos, and more. Let’s talk about all the genres of fan videos floating around YouTube, Billibilli, AO3 and beyond, and also consider if the old school genre terms still apply.

Escapade has had many, many vidding panels. So many that even I feel the need for a readmore. I’ve pulled out the meta ones and left off some single-fandom vidshows and whatnot. Sorry for the wonky formatting, but Tumblr, in its infinite wisdom, seems to have removed the horizontal rule feature.

1991  - "Classic" songtapes were shown at 9:00 on Friday.

1994 - Song Video Roundtable (Bring works in progress or finished works you're having difficulty with for a quick jump-start. Open to anyone who enjoys videos as well as the people who make them.)

1994 - Songvid Editing (Authors get edited and usually have to do at least one rewrite of a story. Artists have erasers. What stops songvid makers from doing drafts and re-edits of their work? Let's talk about editing style (what cuts to use for best emphasis) and technique (how to physically do the inserts.)) [Notice how much of an issue editing is. These are VCR vids, edited in order, so insert edits are a gigantic pain.]

1995 - Techno Vids—Media Cannibals, (What's available with the new computer hardware and software? Can have Bodie & Doyle screwing on screen if we apply the right touches. Should we? How and when?) [Yes. Sweatily. Always.]

1995 - Video Workshop (video makers & watchers discuss the art.)

1996 - Music Video Critique and Workshop (Roundtable critique of videos, how to tell/recognize story, POV, rhythm. Also, tricks of the trade.)

1997 - Music Choice for Song Vidding (Finding the right song for the fandom is almost as great a challenge as finding the right clips for the song. Discussing what to look for in music choice.)

1997 - Songvid Critique (An exploration of different elements of media vids, with an emphasis on aesthetics. We'll look at segments of different songs to see how the images were used in conjunction with the varied rhythms of the music, and to enhance the mood.)

1998 - Media Cannibals Self-Indulgence Hour (Stunned to look back on vidding effort, MC plans to show -- and talk about -- some of their best and worst vids, pointing out some happy accidents and some annoying f*ckups. This is a great panel for people who want to learn about vid-making, the work that goes into them, and what to look for when watching them.)

1998 - Con Vids vs Living Room Vids (What are the elements that make a music vid accessible to a large crown, or more appropriate to an intimate setting?)

1998 - Music Video Show Review (Selected vids from Saturday's show will be replayed and discussed for their aesthetic, technical and musical choices. Open to all, for feedback and fun.) [Perhaps the start of the Sunday vidshow critique, which was also such a feature of Vividcon?]

1999 - Songvid Aesthetics (An exploration of theme, color, mood, and rhythm. Choosing clips to relate to the music and convey your message to the viewer.)

1999 - Sunday Morning Vid Review (Selected vids from Saturday's show will be replayed and discussed for the aesthetic, technical and musical choices. Open to all, for feedback and fun.)

2000 - Vidding Basics (Or "you want to learn how to make a music vid, huh?"—Carol and Stacy will take a group of novice vidders from the basics of what you need on your VCR, to all your hardware set ups, thru the selection of music, to actually doing some hands-on putting a dip (or two) into a music vid. So if you're interested in music videos and you want to try your hand at making one... you know what panel you need to go to.)

2000 - Songvid Appreciation 101 (Remember Art Appreciation? "Why is this painting good?" Well, we're doing the same for vids, using examples from the ESCAPADE Video Show. Let's take advantage of the fact that we've all just seen these vids, and use them to illustrate how to do cool things in a vid. We'll look at clever POV changes, appropriate choice of music to theme, skillful uses of musical changes within a vid, storytelling techniques, changes of mood, cutting on the beat vs. cutting on the lyric line, the different approaches to serious and humorous vids, or single fandom vs. multiple fandom vids, and more.)

2001 - Vidding Workshop (2 hours) (This workshop will cover: a comparison between digital and analog vidding; a how-to for analog vidding; a how-to for digital vidding; and a discussion of the artistic side of vidding, including song and clip choices, and techniques to avoid.)

2001 - Impact of Computer Tools on Vidding (Vidding used to be push-and-pause between 2 vers, and a LOT of patience. Now with I-movie and Final Cut and Macintosh G4's, the technological leap is here and it isn't going anywhere. Are vids better for the technology available to them?)

2001 - Songvid Appreciation (2 hours) (Comments and feedback on vids you saw last night, Escapade style.)

2002 - Art Manipulation Using Photoshop (A how-to overview, with demonstrations in Photoshop, and more detailed techniques for creating photo manipulations, web graphics, and zine graphics. Depending on interest, creation of vid titles and overlay vid graphics may be included.)

2002 - Digital Vidding (An overview of the digital vidding process, including some advice on the hardware and software you need to get started. Learn the basics of editing with Premiere and similar programs, and get an overview of some of the fun options you have when using a computer to vid.)

2002 - Vidding Workshop: Art After Craft (What is the Art of Vidding?)

2002 - Vid Revision (The art and craft of revising vids—how you get from a song in your heart and a bunch of clips on your hard drive to the final product. We'll show multiple versions of a few vids, critique them, and talk about what improves a vid. No technical knowledge needed; come whether you make vids or just like watching them.)

2002 - Vids: Pro vs Fan Editing (A long time fan vidder and a professional editor discuss techniques.)

2002 - Sunday Morning Vid Review

2002 - VividCon Discussion (Come discuss the proposed VividCon, tentative time/location, August/Chicago.) [VVC started 6 months later, in August 2002, and ran until 2018]

2003 - How to Vid on the Computer (A brief intra vidding on computers. It will touch on hardware requirements, software options, and basic concepts of non-linear editing and what makes for a good vid, and, time and tech permitting, it may also include a demonstration of some of the editing basics. There will be handouts.)

2003 - Vid Show Review (A discussion (and literal re-viewing in some cases) of some of the vids from the Saturday night show.)

2003 - Also Premiering Vid Show (The "Also Premiering..." vid show is for vids premiered in the last year that aren't going to be shown in the Friday or Saturday shows. This will be an informal setting and we'll go by participant preference — if folks want to see a vid a second time, or want some time to chat about it, or if a vidder wants some feedback on it, we can decide to do that on-the-fly. If you'd like to show any vids in this show, just bring them to the show itself. There are no hard-and-fast limits on number of vids; we'll just go with what shows up and take turns until we run out of time. Afterwards, consider going out to lunch with other participants to talk about the vids!)

2004 - I want to vid! (But I don't know how) (Introduction to vidding hardware, software and maybe some concepts if we have the time.)

2004 - Made On a Mac: The MacFen Symposium (So you're a slasher and a Mac user. Come and share your tips and tricks for HTML coding, photo editing, website management and vidding on a Mac, Share the programs that have and haven't worked for you and hear some helpful tips from the front lines.)

2004 - Vidding: Creating Mood (Why do rapid cuts of short clips create tension? What does a wipe *feel* iike? A vidder's toolbox Includes more and more options, but how do we know what emotional effect each technical effect will produce? Leave the music at the door; this one's about the visuals.)

2004 - Editing Techniques and Vidding (How can you edit together clips from widely different episodes and movies into a seamless whole? A familiarity with concepts in filmmaking can help you achieve the results you're aiming for. A look at some of the common rules of continuity editing and how they relate to vids.)

2004 - The changing face of vids (How has increasingly cheap technology, wider highspeed access and the new flood of vidders changed vidding? What should we rejoice about and what should we worry about? How do we help make it a winning situation for all?)

2004 - Vid Review (A retrospective on the Saturday night show.)

2005 - Vidding: Let the Lyrics Help You (How to look at lyrics to add depth and structure to your vid. or why top 40 songs usually make you do all the work.)

2005 - Vid Review (A Sunday morning tradition at Escapade, and a chance to discuss those great vids.) [See how it’s a “tradition” by this time.]

2006 - The Changing Vid Audience (The move to digital vidding, the availability of vid source and software, and the expectation of online distribution have all radically affected audience desires and expectations. What do audiences want from vids now? Vidders, share your historical perspectives. Vid fans, this is your chance to tell vidders what you want.)

2006 - Defining the Character Study Vid (We love character study vids, so how do you go about making a good one? What's the difference between a vid about a character, a vid about a universe, and a vid about seeing the universe through the eyes of a character?)

2006 - Marketing Your Vid (How can you stand out among the swelling ranks of vidders? What's the best way to present yourself, and to draw attention to your work? We'll focus on knowing your audience, timing your release, pimp communities, etc.)

2006 - Vid Review  (Like Ebert and Roper, but much better looking.)

2007 - Ulead Media Studio Pro 8 and Why It's Better Than the Rest (A compare and contrast of the semi-professional video editing software programs with a strong emphasis on Ulead Media Studio Pro 8. If you are new to vidding, or interested in upgrading your video editing software, this panel should help you make an informed choice.)

2007 - Mac Workshop (The ins and outs of vidding on a Mac.)

2007 - Vid Show Review (Take apart what worked and what was missing from selected vids in the Saturday show. Audience participation at its finest.)

2008 - Ulead Video Editing Introduction (Intro to Ulead Video Studio/Media Studio Pro for those who are interested in vidding but don't have a clue as to where to start. or wouldn't mind a refresher course.)

2008 - Vid Review (Last night was for watching, today is for analyzing. What worked, what didn't, and why?)

2009 - Fannish Aesthetics: Extrapolation v. Subversion (How do we as writers (and especially as vidders) interact with the source material? Is that relationship evolving? What can we say about where we've been and where we're headed?)

2009 - Vid Review (Last night was for watching, today is for analyzing. What worked, what didn't, and why?)

2010 - 2010: A Vidding Odyssey (Current trends in vidding, including what's changed and what's remaind the same when it comes to slash, vidding in particular. We will show some examples of "classic" slash as well as some of the newer develpoments in constructed reality.)

2010 - Vid Review

2011 - Escapade Songvid Retrospective (A trip back to the days of yesteryear, when vids were made on VCRs and Escapade was the place for vids and vid programming. Compiled by Kandy Fong, this show will survey vids from a variety of vidders and shows, covering Escapade 1992-2001 in a fun, informal environment.)

2011 - Decoding Vid Meaning (How do you read a vid? Clip choice, lyrics, structure, symbols or the tone of the music— vids offer plenty of clues, and we decipher them as we see fit. Come watch a vid (or two!) and discuss how we get meaning from what we see and hear to develop a deeper understand of what's going on in the vid. Multiple viewings are required!)

2011 - Vid Review (Flash all the way back to Saturday night to dissect our favorite (or not) vids from the show.)

2011 - The Vidding Explosion (1985-1990) (Who taught whom. The growth of storytelling, technique, and sophistication. Includes vid show and presentation.)

2012 - Vidwatching 101 (Vids have their own language and their own framework for discussion. It can be tough to translate vids into words, but if we have the same language, vid discussion can be wonderfully rewarding for both vidder and viewer. This panel is a primer to get us all on the same page.)

2012 - The State of Vidding Fandom (Ten years of VividCon and roughly the same years vids have been distributed online, let's talk about the state of vidding and the community of vidders. Is there one? Where is it? How do vidders fit in with fandom at large? What are the different options for watching/releasing vids, and how do they stack up for vidders and viewers? If you love vids, join us—whether you vid or not.)

2012 - Festivids Review (Festivids is a fannish vid exchange inspired by the Yuletide fic exchange. This will be a vid review-style panel where we show clips from some of this year's highlight vids and talk about the challenge.)

2012 - MVD Vid Retrospective Show (Sometimes the oldies really are the goodies. Mary Van Duesen has made songvids since the 1980s, working in a range of fandoms. She has also remastered many old vids, and they look better now than they ever did. Come see some old favorites, or find some new ones.)

2012 - Vid Show Review

2012 - Nearly New Vids (So many wonderful vids were submitted for the Escapade show that we couldn’t fit them all in the early show. Here’s your chance to see the rest in the daylight hours (replay of the late-show vids).

2013 - Mac Vidders Roundtable (What’s the best way to vid on a Mac? Our vidding options have changed a lot in the last few years, and it’s been a while since we had a roundtable to discuss and compare our tips, tricks, and processes. This panel is for all of the above.)

2013 - The Art of the Pimp Vid (What makes a pimp vid so addictive one hit will get you hooked? Let’s talk vids for people outside of your fandom. Plot arc vids, character vids, pairing vids: How do you grab a new audience hard and never let them go? Hey there, little fangirl, the first taste is free!)

2013 - The Bestivids of Festivids (This year’s Festivids featured everything from incest testtube babies to care bear Avengers to a surprisingly large amount of kickass femslash. Let’s watch and discuss some favorites from Festivids 2012.)

2013 - So You Want To Be A Vidder (Nobody vidding your OTP anymore? Sad that vidders haven’t discovered your new favorite show? Why not vid it yourself? Come learn the very basics, from choosing programs in your price range to dos and don’ts if you’re planning to submit to cons.)

2013 - How Do Vids Work? (Let's talk about the techniques (not just the feelings!) that make a slash vid work. What makes for a vid that we watch over and over and that sticks with us long- term? We'll talk about these things with reference to a couple of specific vids, see what strategies, commonalities, and differences we can identify, and then open up discussion to additional favorites from the audience.)

2013 - Vidding Aesthetics (Vidders and vid watchers: let’s talk vidding aesthetics. How have styles changed over time? What makes a good vid and what’s just a matter of personal taste? What do you want to BURN WITH FIRE? Let’s get this cage match... err... discussion going.)

2013 - Vid Review (Flash all the way back to Saturday night to dissect our favorite vids (or not) vids from the show.)

2014 - Vidding 101 (Never edited before? Haven't made a vid since the VCR went the way of the dodo? Come learn how to turn those vidbunnies into reality!)

2014 - Vids for the Viewer (We often discuss writing from the perspective of a reader, but vidding from the perspective of vid-watchers not so much. Let's talk about how to read a vid, different vidding aesthetics and how accessible or popular they are with viewers vs. vidders, and impostor syndrome in vid review.)

2014 - Vid Review (Flash all the way back to Saturday night to dissect our favorite (or not) vids from the show.)

2015 - Best of Festivids. From the slashy to the merely sublime, what tickled our fancy in this year’s Festivids?

2015 - The Perfect Slash Vid. What makes the perfect slash vid? Is it the song choice? The point of view? The abs? (Okay, you got me: it’s the abs.)

2015 - So You Wanna Be A Vidder. Bring your laptop or at least a pen and paper and find out how to get started in vidding.

2015 - Vid Review: Flash all the way back to Saturday night to dissect our favorite (or not) vids from the show.

2016 - The State of *Vidding Fandom. Sunday, Noon, San Diego 2. What's going on in vidding fandom today? Where are people hosting and posting? What's next?

2016 - Vid Review. Flash all the way back to Saturday night to dissect our favorite (or not) vids from the show.

2016 - Vidding Aesthetics (”Why is there so much show audio in this vid?", "Why didn't that cut hit on the beat?", "What do you mean 'Cheesy?' She's Celine Dion!" and other immortal questions of vidding aesthetics. If you've ever watched a vid, we want your opinions.)

2017 - Vidding 101 - Have you dreamed of making a vid but just aren’t sure where to start? We’ll go step by step, talk finding your source(s), choosing music, finding your way with non overwhelming tech-tools, brainstorming ideas, finding collaborators, and learning by doing. Already a vidder? Come and help new vidders find their way, find new collaborators, and make new ideas happen.

2017 - Let’s Collab! New Forms of Collective Fan Creativity , Newport Changing technologies mean that we collaborate with each other in ever-evolving ways when we create fic and vids. What are the possibilities for collaborating beyond geographic boundaries with digital technologies? How are you collaborating with fellow writers and vidders these days? Are you interested in finding new collaborators and new ways to connect? And are these new forms of collaboration creating new forms of creative fan work?

2017 - Vid Review, Marina del Rey On Saturday night, we watched the vid show. On Sunday morning, we talk about it. Join Rache to discuss the good, the better, and the great of the show, including techniques and all of the reasons Charlotte doesn’t vid anymore and never will again.

2018 - Noon (Vids from the Vault, Part One Kandy Fong Newport A curated retrospective of vids from early Escapades.

2018 - Fanvid Feels (What vids do you return to again and again because they just make you *feel* things, thrill you, or fill you with joy, or even sadness? Maybe a vid introduced you to a pairing, or a fandom, or perhaps you love it even though you’re not really that into the source? Let’s look at some of our/your favorite vids and think about what makes them tick. Come with vids you want to talk about in mind, or just come to watch and talk about vids that make us feel stuff.)

2018 - Vid Review (Flash all the way back to Saturday night to dissect our favorite (or not) vids from the show.)

2019 - 3-Minute Pimp Vid (Forget telling: Show us your canon with a vid or clip! (3-5 minutes each.))

2019 - Lend Me Your Ears: Vids and Music (Have you ever discovered a song or musician because of a fanvid? Do you have thoughts on what music works and doesn't with fan vids? Let's talk about all the ways in which different types of music can work in vids, and look at some vids that work with music in awesome or surprising ways. Plus maybe there will be a little singing along...)

2019 - AO3 But For Fanart and Fanvids (AO3 has been great for fic, we need safe harbors for art and vids too. Let's talk about it!)

2019 - Pitch a Vid Bunny, Find a Vid Beta (Have an idea for a fanvid you'd love to see happen? Come with concept, song, source ideas, characters--share your bunnies, find some cheerleaders, brainstorm together. For newbie & experienced vidders alike, all welcome!)

2019 - Vid Review (Rehash the Saturday night vid show with a room full of fans.)

[singwhenyoucantspeak]

rules: answer 20 questions, then 5 more, & tag whoever you want

I was tagged by @dollsome-does-tumblr, thanks :)

name: Colleen nickname: um N/A i guess? (some people just skill the o syllable of my name to shorten it so maybe c’lleen HA) zodiac: Gemini height: 5′5″ languages: English, and some Spanish... (I wouldn’t say I’m quite fluent yet, but I’ve been studying it for a long time and I’m ok at reading it). nationality: USofA favorite season: I kind of want to copy dollsome’s answer... because I always get tired of a season before it ends, so the start of the new season is always so exciting and refreshing. I love sweater weather, but the seasonal depression here is supppper a lot so i’m usually very done with winter by the end. I’m very happy right now to be getting into spring and getting to finally see some sunshine. favorite flower: hmm idk. I like roses (we used to have a yellow rose bush outside our kitchen window) I also like hydrangeas... but maybe because i associate them with my childhood home and summer. favorite scent: not to be cliche white girl, but i really do like the fall scents like pumpkin spice and cinnamon apple... also cranberry and pomegranate scented candles favorite color: i dunno if i have one. I like blue and purple and red and black... orange used to be my favorite but i think i got bored of it and now it’s too loud for me. favorite animal: my kitty cat favorite fictional character: out of everything ever?... this is too hard. Maybe Regina Mills. but I’ve been on a major Addison Montgomery kick lately... coffee, tea, or hot chocolate: coffee lol average sleep: I try for 8 hours... but i am bad at falling asleep even when i go to bed on time dog or cat person: Cats number of blankets: four... (it is still cold here ok... and i don’t like turning up the heat) dream trip: NYC to see some broadway... (I say this every time I know) blog established: 2012 followers: tumblr tells me it’s 2,346 today random fact about me: I once got way too carried away with an anatomy lab assignment in which we were supposed to draw the parts of a muscle, and ended up turning in this:

like look at the detail, look at the shading, look at the blending. undergrad me was a crazy person. (my lab group definitely thought i was a crazy person... they all had like stick figure level drawings. also this assignment was probably supposed to take us like 10 minutes and I definitely spent a good 2 hours on it)

introvert or extrovert: Introvert. place to relax: my couch... my kitchen table, as weird as that sounds, sometimes I prefer to read or be on my computer there. especially if i’m trying to snack or drink a coffee at the same time. favorite snack: ...chocolate... of any kind recent shows: I just finished The Umbrella Academy, my roommate and I are also trying to stay caught up on B99, Zoey’s extraordinary playlist, and Good Girls. favorite video game: lol... i don’t play video games... like at all. When I was in middle school I went through a phase where I played my gameboy advance sp a lot, but yeah haven’t really played any video games since. (edit: when I lived with my former roommate, Kyle, like 4 years ago, he sometimes got me to play super smash bros with him. but it was rare that i would agree)

I tag... @marymania @friendly-deatheater @harperhug @andalitebandit​ @singinprincess​

[mgrgfan]

Past of the future, future of the past...

Interlude. Different Points.

Soris Region, near Chernoholmsk, Imperial Rocket Factory #2.

Nikolai walked along the assembly line, checking the sounding rockets, before they'll get packed up, loaded into containers and delivered to the Zemlino Space Center.

Three months ago, the Rayquaza has destroyed both of the space stations in orbit, killed twelve cosmonauts and reduced the satellite groups of both Soris Empire and the Pokemon Nation to pretty much nothing. And that's not counting the destruction of anything, that goes higher than troposphere, such as research drones or high-altitude planes.

Since then, the Imperial Space Program took a hit, but, thanks to the personal support of the Empress, stayed strong. Right now, their primary priority was set to the atmospheric research, so, they've commissioned several hundreds of the modified A-100 sounding rockets - the fastest rockets in the world, capable of 100g of acceleration!

Speaking of which...

"... Why are those sounding rockets like this?" the worker thought, doing a check on the hull. "No ablative protection, which is very strange, considering their accelerations and resulting ram heating in the atmosphere, unusual science payload adapter, attitude jets instead of steering fins and, for what it looks like, radio command flight guidance system…"

"Surprised by how those rockets look?" asked him superior, who approached the worker undetected. "I'm also surprised by this order. It'll make sense, if they'll be used in space…"

"But what for?"

"... I don't know. And I think we better keep low and silent about it. They didn't double the payment and order me to increase your salaries for nothing."

Hoenn Region, Sootopolis.

"...And for the ending of the "Zap Rangers", we've planned…" TV fell silent.

"Spoilers, spoilers, spoilers. Over and over again," said Valencia, switching the set off via button on the device itself and walking to the kitchen.

Ever since the Rayquaza got crazy and destroyed most of the stuff in orbit, then began a stratospheric blockade, pure chaos ensued.

In a lot of places cults sprung to life, calling, that the end of the world was near. Some of them had committed mass suicides, some - went into riots, allowing the looters of all sorts to flourish, some went into self-constructed shelters… it was true insanity.

And, as a Cheri Berry on top of that cake, many book and comic writers, along with producers of TV shows and so on, decided to tell everyone their plans on ending their works. The newspapers and networks were pretty much flooded with them. Valencia was even afraid to imagine, how much money they were getting from those exclusive interviews.

"Still nothing good?" a question sounded from the kitchen.

"Still nothing good," responded the woman, entering the room. In one of the chairs, a young man sat. If not for a slightly ragged look of his face, it would've been impossible to tell, that he was, actually, a Draconid.

"Damn. Gonna lay low for a few more weeks, I guess?" said Damien. His name was quite unusual for a member of this tribe… but it really helped him to get to his Sootopolian friend for a safe hiding, when the pogroms started. Even though, officially, Hoenn government had nothing against the Draconids, the fact, that those people worshipped Rayquaza, was enough of a trigger to allow humans, driven to hysterical paranoia by the acts of recently-resurfaced Sky High Pokemon and some medias, which were happily exploiting those events, to near-instantly resort to the unprovoked and indiscriminate violence. Even though most of the Draconids had powerful Pokemon with them, it often just made crazed people to switch to the swarming tactics, mixed with dirty fighting. Even great Draconid combatants weren't able to stand against fifty normal trainers and some more non-trainers at once, especially, when those people were specifically targeting the Draconid in question and going for the injuries at least.

"Of course," replied Valencia. She wondered, why the news networks weren't showing anything about Soris now and how they, with their different culture, reacted to what has happened several months ago.

Soris Region, near Zemlino, VAB #3

"Contact zone reached," said the computer system in the cabin of the overhead crane. The slightly aged man threw a quick look at the screen in cabin, at the payload, at the destination, then gently shifted the left control stick, activating the hoist and lowering the turret with railgun, suspended on the crane's hook, to the workers below. Right now, the air conditioning system of the Vertical Assembly Building was being repaired and the clouds started to build up inside. It wasn't raining yet and most of the equipment was water-proofed for this very reason, but the condensation on the glass windows of the cabin was getting annoying for the operator, since it forced him to mostly rely on the instruments.

"Klim, the break is starting about now! Get down here!" sounded from the comm system. Klim Goncharenko, a very experienced crane operator - probably, the best one in the entire Empire, since the Emperor himself called him for participating in this operation - frowned a little.

"Okay, guys, but you know - I'm not into smoking. And know, if you've touched sandwiches, brought here by my wife… well, the unexpected bowel movements should start in roughly a minute or so!"

For a thirty seconds, there was an uneasy silence, soon followed by "Sanyuch, you fraggin' bastard!" and a sound of at least three men sprinting towards the restroom. Klim smiled and started to drive the crane back to the parking position, thinking about his son and sort-of-a-granddaughter, who stayed in the Imperial Science Facility 9.

[zerohour1974]

The Grumpy Git Returns 2

Why is the Tech world so fundamentally broken?

Hello readers I’m back after a major hiatus.  What on earth is going on in the world of technology.  It’s all going to hell.

You might think what the hell am I on about.  It seems things in the industry are completely broken and for all the complaints out there no one seems to do anything about it.

Here are just a few examples...

1) Apple releases Mac Pro with a basic price tag of £5000

What on earth, I would understand such a price point if this was an amazing all singing all dancing machine, but its not.  The basic system is an i5 system.  Seriously then everything else can be upgraded by Apple or exclusive dealers or it invalidates your warranty and the machine locks you out using the T2 security chip.

Now Apple have been on shaky ground regarding tech for a number of years which problems such as lowering sales of iPhones because by the time they release them they have already been superseded by the competition.

Apple used to be seen as the innovative company of the world, the kings of aesthetic and cool.  Now even the hipsters of the world are thinking Apple products are too expensive and not really giving much to the world.

It doesn’t help that every MacOS version is now more like iOS and they are locking you further and further into the Apple Garden.  What i mean by that is blocking anything that is not in the Apple Play Store, not supporting hardware (Nvidia graphics cards, Wi-Fi etc.) and now preventing upgrades.  Which is alienating their customers...

No one is going to buy the Mac Pro one because the price is ludicrous.  Two everyone is speculating Apple is going to change to using ARM processors so the whole system is probably about to change.   People got bitten with PPC, only for Apple to switch to Intel and abandon PPC.  So they will not get away with it twice.

Apple admit too being a $1 trillion company but how long will it last considering you are further and further alienating your own customers.    Now don’t get me wrong there will always be a hardcore group of loyal Apple consumers, but you have to wonder is it enough to keep Apple where it stands.

Personally given their listed losses it looks like the bubble is starting to burst.  But equally getting back to the point who seriously believed a £5000 desktop would be seen and thought wow that’s a good idea.  The mind boggles.

A lot of people are now building Hackintosh machines because one its cheaper to do so and two for less money you probably get more power than the Mac Pro.  Crazy.

2) Software companies putting out totally broken games as full releases at full price.

This one is pretty obvious I can site many examples her but of course probably the biggest known was of course Bethesda’s Fallout 76.  Now I’m not going to reiterate its story there has been plenty of coverage about it on YouTube.

Now before anyone starts yes I accept there is Early Access programs on Steam and the likes but they at least admit up front that the item you are purchasing is not the final game and may be subject to change.

However we are seeing more and more companies putting out games that require huge day one updates of several gigabytes.  DLC breaking game elements in major ways and live services either not working or not being able to cope with the loads.

Now I admit I am not a programmer and maybe someone who is in the game will be able to shed a better light, but it seems these major corporations such as EA, Ubisoft, Activision Blizzard and more are making millions off the backs of programmers who are expected to deliver higher and higher standard stuff in less and less time.

These guys are being forced into working extraneous “crunch” hours being put under immense stress and not really seeing much in the way of benefits.  They seem to take a lot of abuse if the programmer refuses.

2019 showed many cases of ex-employees reporting abuse.  Now I know some could be put down to sour grapes but there is a lot to be said about there is no smoke without fire.

It seems many programmers are complaining about their immense pressure to perform.  As I said I’m not a programmer so I can’t really say I know.  They seem to have no representation in their corner to help them such a union and because a lot of them are freelance many corporations see them as disposable.

This to me is ludicrous.  Without these programmers most of these corporations would not have a product to sell and equally wouldn’t exist.  So why treat them like dirt, you are cutting off your nose to spite your face.

Also for all things like Fallout 76 proved for all they released a half arsed game and took controversy.  Not once has someone said that this practice is unacceptable.

If you bought a Television and when you turned it on it showed BBC1 and BBC2 only and the rest was coming later in a software patch update.  You would complain vehemently and take back the television for your money back.

So why can software companies get away with releasing a half finished product.... Which moves us on to...

3) New Linux phones been released unfinished

Linux phones are the latest and “greatest” thing since sliced bread if you believed the hype.  Security conscious phones that don’t report everything about you, kill switches to disable base bands so you can’t be monitored at all times and of course its Linux based so the operating system is free.

All sounds good and hence why Purism Librem 5 and the Pine phone both have had a major interest shown in them.

Given all the concerns raised recently regarding Google and how it uses its data and problems such as the many data leaks of various sites.  Privacy regarding your data is being raised.

Ironically Microsoft who have admitted they are having Windows 10 report back data are not in these investigations.  But hey ho.

However its not the fact its Linux that’s a problem for me.  I like Linux but what i don’t get is this new concept of the phone is taking longer than we thought and people are worried.  SO what we will do is supply you your phone but most of the software doesn’t work but in the next few months we will implement various features to get it working.

They even give them titles such as the Pine Phone Braveheart Edition or the Librem 5 Spring.  Basically a broken p[hone which you have paid money for hoping that eventually it may work.

Once again these phones are hardly cutting edge so even if they do get it working.  Half of the tech is at least a generation back.

Now I understand creating a phone and its OS from scratch is hard work     and such processed take time.  However giving you a shell of a phone and leaving you to wait for the rest is a bit much.

This is similar to the TV but in this case because Linux is open source.  Your TV now only has two channels and they want you to write the next bit of the code to sort the programs out.  They say it’s a learning experience.

I’m waiting for someone to build a house and then if you want any windows, heating or electric you have to have to either build it yourself or wait for an upgrade.  Madness.

4) Live services...

When I started in computing my first machine was a ZX Spectrum 48K it wasn’t amazing but it was a computer.  You bought games, you could program it and it was yours to do with as you pleased.

Modern day systems both in the computing world and console world you are signed into agreements that no matter what the machine is.  The code involved is the property of X company and although you physically own the machine you can not amend it, alter it,  complain about it or they can withdraw your rights to said systems and lock you out.

What? I own a machine but if I do anything beyond your limitations you will sue me.  How did this become a thing.

It was bad enough with Intellectual Copyright bullshit but this is getting ludicrous.

They have since took it one step further in games now several of them will not allow you to play them unless permanently connected to their servers or pay an ongoing subscription fee.

Which equally they can close at a moments notice because they decide they don’t like it and you have no recompense.  How many games have we heard have been just abandoned by their publishers.

Especially in the MMORPG genre.  Games are no longer purchased like tapes with physical medium as now most are download codes in physical cases.  If you actually get a physical DVD you are lucky.

However it doesn’t mean squat if you buy the game and the servers no longer exist.  Several games have managed to allow people to have their own private servers but many of them don’t exist.

How is this allowed to exist.  How are the computer industry allowed to sell products which have no guarantee.  Also why is no one questioning this...

If Valve decide enough was enough, they were sick of being blamed for the controversial games been stuck on its site by asset flippers etc., and decided to close down the service.

Sure they would have to give people notice but beyond that they have no obligation to make sure you have access to the games you bought.  This to me seems a dodgy game.

And with more services such as the Epic Games Store, UPlay, Origin,  and Google Stadia this is only going to get worse.

We need some form of legislation to prevent this from happening.  We are losing more and more data everyday on the internet due to leaks, server closures and companies just going out of business.  Very little of this software and data is being archived so is lost.

This is a problem.  Now I understand people saying it’s my game. But equally you have been paid for said game and now they are saying we cant use it or access it.

Something is fundamentally wrong here.

I could go on with further points such as large corporations closing Software Studios making games and complaining they sold 7 million copies and didn’t sell 10 million copies. Major tech companies refusing to pay taxes but want tax breaks from major governments but that can be the topic for another day.

As I said the tech world is fundamentally broken and needs a shake up.  Why are we paying the price for their inability to sort out their problems.

Until next time ...

[saraschriefer]

SIRI HUSTVEDT Notes on Seeing

1 To look and not see: an old problem. It usually means a lack of understanding, an inability to divine the meaning of something in the world around us.

2 Cognitive scientists have repeatedly conducted the following experiment and, without fail, they come up with same results. An audience is asked to watch a film of two teams playing basketball. They are given a job to count the number of times the ball changes hands. I have done this, and one has to be very attentive to follow the motion of the ball. In the middle of the game, a man wearing a gorilla suit walks onto the court, turns to the camera, thumps his chest and leaves. Half the people do not see the great ape. They do not believe that he was actually there until the film is replayed and, indeed, a gorilla strolls in and out of the game. Nearly everyone sees the gorilla if he is not given the assignment. This has been named inattentional blindness.

3 Writing at my desk now, I see the screen but this sentence dominates my attention. In fact, my momentary awareness that there is much around the words distracts me: the blue screen of the computer beyond the white edge of the page; various icons above and below; the surface of my desk cluttered with small Post-it squares which, when I turn my head, I can read, “Habermas 254-55”, “Meany et. al, implications for andrenocortical responses to stress” scrawled on pink paper (residue of arcane research); a black stapler; and countless other objects that enter my awareness the moment I turn to them. What is crucial is that I don’t turn to them. For hours every day, I have little, if any, consciousness of them. I live in a circumscribed phenomenal world. An internal narrator speaks words and dictates to my fingers that type automatically. There is no need to think about the connection between head and hands. I am subsumed by the link. Were another object suddenly to materialize on my desk and then vanish, I might well have no knowledge of either its appearance or disappearance.

4 Once, in an unfamiliar hallway, I mistook myself for a stranger because I did not understand I was looking in a mirror. My own form took me by surprise because I was not oriented in space. Expectation is powerful.

5 There are days when I think I see an old friend in the street, but it is a stranger. The recognition ignites like a match and then is instantly extinguished when I understand I am wrong. The recognition is felt, not thought. I can’t trace what created the error, can’t tell you why one person reminded me of another.  Was the old friend a subliminal presence in my mind on that particular day or was the confusion purely external—a jut of the chin or slope of the shoulders or rhythm of a walk?

6 We do not become anesthetized to horrible photographs of death or suffering. We may choose to avoid them. When I see a gruesome image in the newspaper in the morning, I sometimes turn away, registering in seconds that looking too long will hurt me. People who gorge on horror films and violent thrillers do it, not because they have learned to feel too little, but because they indulge in the limbic rush that floods their systems as they safely witness exploding bodies. It seems that these viewers are mostly men.

7 We feel colors before we can name them.  Colors act on us pre-reflectively. A part of me feels red before I can name red. My cognitive faculties lag behind the color’s impact. Standing in a room my eyes go first to the vase of red tulips because they are red and because they are alive.

8 My mother once told me about coming home to find our cat dead on the lawn. She saw the poor animal from many yards away, but she said she knew with absolute assurance that it was dead. An inert thing. An it.

9 Photographs of the beloved dead draw me in. I am fascinated. There is the good, dear face, one that changed over time.  It is the picture that preserves the face, not my memory, which is befogged by the many faces he had over the years. Or is it the single face that grew old?  Sometimes I cannot bear to look. The image has become a token of grief. And yet, there is nothing so banal as the pictures of strange families.  After my father died, I found Christmas cards with photographs of unknown people among his papers—happy families—grinning into an invisible lens. I threw them away.

10 Galvanic skin response registers a change in the heat and electricity passed through the skin by nerves and sweat during emotional states.  People in white coats attach electrodes to your hands and track what happens. When they show you a picture of your mother, your GSR goes up. Meaning in the body.

11 Is our visual world rich or poor? There are fights about this. People do not agree. Philosophers and scientists and other academics ponder this richness and poverty question in papers and books and lectures. Human beings have very limited peripheral vision, but we can turn our heads and take in more of the world. When I’m writing, my vision is severely limited by my attention, but sometimes when I let my eyes roam in a space, I discover its density of light and color and feel surprised by what I find. When I focus, say, just on the shadows here on my desk, they become remarkable. My small round clock casts a double shadow from either side of its circular base, one darker than the other, a gray and a paler gray. There is a spot of brilliant light at the edge of the darker oval. As I look, this sight has become beautiful.

12 Why is a face beautiful?

13 If an image is flashed too quickly to be perceived consciously, we take it in unconsciously and we respond to it without knowing what is happening. A picture of a scowling face I can’t say I’ve seen affects me anyway. Scientists call this masking. Blindsight patients have cortical blindness. They lose visual consciousness but not visual unconsciousness. They see but don’t know they are seeing. If you ask them to guess what you’re holding (a pencil) they will guess far better than people who are truly blind. Words and consciousness are connected. How much do I see of the world that never registers in my awareness? When I walk in the street, I sometimes glimpse a scene for just an instant but I cannot tell you what I have witnessed until a fraction of a second later when the puzzling image falls into place: that furry thing was a stuffed animal and a little boy was dangling it from his stroller. The lag again.

14 We are picture-making creatures. We scribble and draw and paint. When I draw what I see, I touch the thing I am looking at it with my mind, but it is as if my hand is caressing its outline. People who stopped drawing as children continue to make pictures in their dreams or in the hallucinations that arrive just before they go to sleep. Where do those images come from?  I dreamed grass and brush and sticks were growing out of my arm, and I got to work busily trimming myself with a scissors. I wasn’t alarmed; it was a job handled in a matter-of-fact way. If I painted a self portrait  with bushy arms, I would be called a surrealist.

15 Some people who go blind see vivid images and colors. Some people who are losing their vision hallucinate while awake. An old man saw cows grazing in his living room, and a woman saw cartoon characters running up and down her doctor’s arm. Charles Bonnet syndrome. Just before I fell asleep, I saw a little man speeding over pink and violet cliffs. Once I saw an explosion of melting colors—green, blues, reds, and then a great flash of light that devoured them all. Hypnogogic hallucinations. Freud said dreams protect sleep. At night the world is taken from us and we make up our own scenes and stories. When you wake up slowly, you will remember more of that human underground.

16 Deprived of sight, we make visions. Seeing is also creating.

17

There are things in the world to see. Do I see what you see? We can talk about it and verify the facts. Through my window is the back of a house. One of its windows is completely covered by a blue shade. But if I tell you I see a flying zebra you will say, Siri, you are hallucinating. You are dreaming while awake.

18 Sometimes artists can make a hallucination real. A painting of a flying zebra is a real thing in the world, a real thing to see.

19 Why do I not like the word “taste” when applied to art? Because it has lost its connection to the mouth and food and chewing. I don’t like the way this picture tastes. It’s bitter. If we thought about actual tastes, the word would still work. It would be a form of synesthesia, a crossing of our senses: seeing as tasting. But usually it is not used like that anymore so I avoid it entirely when I talk about art.

20 Looking at a human being or even a picture of a human being is different from looking at an object. Newborn babies, only hours old, copy the expressions of adults. They pucker up, try to grin, look surprised, and stick out their tongues. The photographs of imitating infants are both funny and touching. They do not know they are doing it; this response is in them from the beginning. Later, people learn to suppress the imitation mechanism; it would not be good if we went on forever copying every facial expression. Nevertheless, we human beings love to look at faces because we find ourselves there. When you smile at me, I feel a smile form on my own face before I am aware it is happening, and I smile because I am seeing me in your eyes and know that you like what you see.

21 I am looking at a small reproduction of Johannes Vermeer’s Study of a Young Woman, which hangs in a room at The Metropolitan Museum here in New York.  It is a girl’s head and face. I say girl because she is very young. From her face I would guess she is no more than ten years old. When I look up the picture in one of my books on Vermeer, I see that there it is called Portrait of a Young Girl, a far better title. We should not turn girls into women too soon. She is smiling, but not a wide smile. Her lips are sealed. My impression is that she is looking at me, but I cannot quite catch her eye. What is certain is that she is answering someone else’s gaze. Someone has made her smile. She is not a beautiful child; it is her looking that is beautiful, her connection to the invisible person. There is shyness in her expression, reserve, maybe a hint of hesitancy. I think she is looking at an adult, probably the artist, because she has not let herself go. She looks over her shoulder at him. I have great affection for this girl. That is the magic of the painting; it is not that I have affection for a representation of a child’s head that was painted some time between 1665 and 1667. No, I feel I have actually fallen for her, the way I fall for a child who looks up at me on the street and smiles, perhaps a homely child, who with a single look calls forth a burst of maternal feeling and sympathy. But my emotion is made of something more; I remember my own girlhood and my shyness with grownups I didn’t know well. I was not a bold child and in her face I see myself at the same age.

22 In some of Gerhard Richter’s painted-over photographs, he painted over his wife’s face and parts of her body. He covered the bodies of his children, too, in snapshots of them as babies and growing children. In these gestures, I felt he was keeping them for himself, keeping the private hidden. Other times, he framed them with swaths of color, turning them into featured subjects. I love those pictures.

23 Mothers have a need to look at their children. We cannot help it.

24 Lovers have a need to look at each other. They cannot help it.

25 Several years ago a friend sent me a paper on mirror neurons. They were found in the brains of macaque monkeys. When one monkey makes a gesture, grabs a banana, neurons in his premotor cortex are activated. When another monkey watches the gesture, but doesn’t make it, the same neurons are activated in his brain. Human beings have them, too. We reflect each other.

26 Looking at pornography is exciting but loses its interest after orgasm.

27 Reading the end of James Joyce’s Ulysses when Molly Bloom is remembering is erotic because she gives permission, gives up and gives way, and this is always exciting and interesting because it is personal not impersonal. Isn’t it strange that looking at little abstract symbols on a white page can make a person feel such things? I see her in his arms. I am in his arms. I remember your arms.

28 When I read stories, I see them. I make pictures and often they remain in my mind after I have finished a novel, along with some phrases or sentences. I ground the characters in places, real and imagined. But I always remember the feeling of a book best, unless I have forgotten it altogether.

29 I do not usually see philosophy with some exceptions: Plato, Pascal, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche because they are also storytellers.

30 Some people cannot make visual imagery. They do not see pictures in their minds. They do not turn words into images. I didn’t know such a thing was possible until a short time ago. They see abstractly. They remember the symbols on the page.

31 “I see” can also mean “I understand.”

32 There is a small part of the brain called the fusiform gyrus that is crucial for recognizing faces. If you lose this ability your deficit is called prosopagnosia.  It happens that a person with brain damage looks at herself in the mirror, and believes she is seeing, not herself, but a double. It seems that what has vanished is not reason, but that special feeling we get when we look at our reflections, that warm sense of ownership. When that disappears, the image of one’s self becomes alien.

33 I look and sometimes I see.

[ughseoks-main]

Snapshot - [Chapter 1]

Peter Parker x Reader

Summary: A mysterious girl with a special power ends up on the Avengers’ front doorstep after running from Hydra. A boy with chocolate brown eyes and a heart of gold vows to protect her at all costs.

Prologue - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Series Masterlist

Word count: 3.1k

a/n: it’s finally here!! the beginning is kinda shitty but i promise it gets better. leave me some feedback & hope y’all enjoy!

“So, you’re the person that Fury told me about?” Tony asked you, taking off his blue tinted glasses and setting them on the coffee table in front of him and Peter with a clink.

“Yeah, that’s me,” you said quietly from across the table. The three of you had taken a seat on the couches in the living room after your wounds had been treated and you were given dry clothes.

“I didn’t expect you to be so young,” he gestured towards you, “Based on what Fury told me, you’ve been through a lot.”

Instead of answering, you simply shrugged. You couldn’t deny that what you’d gone through was difficult, but it was what you signed up for. Just because you were a teenager didn’t mean you couldn’t handle it.

“Well, we can talk more about this in the morning once you’ve gotten some rest,” he sighed and stood up from the couch, “Peter, can you show this young lady to her room? No funny business.”

Peter nodded furiously, his voice squeaking slightly as he spared a glance in your direction. “Of course, Mr. Stark.” 

With a quick “Thanks, Pete,” he stood up and left the room. Peter looked around awkwardly for a few moments before speaking up, “S-so, um, your room should be, uh, this way, if you’ll follow me…” he trailed off, his thumb pointing to the hallway behind him. You nodded at him and stood, only to double over as a stabbing pain cut into your side. Peter didn’t hesitate to run over to you, placing a hand on your shoulder.

“Are you okay? If you need help walking-” he was interrupted as you held your hand up in front of you, signaling that you were fine on your own. He cleared his throat and slowly stood up and away from you, giving you an unsure glance out of the corner of his eye.

“Just- just give me a second,” you coughed and stood up all the way, taking slow steps down the hallway right behind Peter.

The two of you walked in silence for a while, unsure of what to say or do around each other. Since your side still burned, you had to walk at an extremely slow pace, which dragged out the walk to your room by several extra minutes.

“So, um,” Peter glanced towards you nervously, “If you don’t mind me asking, why exactly are you here? You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

Instead of immediately answering, you took a moment to decide whether or not to elaborate. On one hand, you had absolutely no idea who Peter was; but on the other, he’d trusted you when you showed up at the tower, so you supposed that you owed him a bit of that trust in return.

“Well, I guess I should start off by saying that I have a photographic memory,” you began, causing Peter to look up at you, slightly shocked that you were really going to tell him, “Along with remembering everything, I can also wipe specific memories of others. I’ve been able to do it for as long as I can remember.”

“Do you like being able to do what you do?” Peter asked, genuinely curious.

“Well, the ability to remember everything is both a blessing and a curse. When I was about seven, some agents from HYDRA came to my house and slaughtered my entire family. I was hiding, but I saw everything. I remember every little detail. I still don’t know why they did it.”

You took a moment to compose yourself. It’d been years since it happened, but the image of your parents and sister dead on the ground in front of you always appeared in your mind when you spoke of that day. Peter gave you a sympathetic look, prompting you to continue.

“I was, uh, on the street for a while. Nobody would take me in and I had no extended family. I was all alone, barely even living, until Nick Fury came to me and told me that he had a job for me. Since I had no other reason to be alive, I agreed and came with him to his office. That was where he told me that he knew of my special abilities and that I could use them to help prevent others from the same fate as my family.” you sniffled at the memories. It’d been a very, very long time since you’d told anybody your whole story.

“Basically, they put me into HYDRA when I was old enough to take care of myself. At HYDRA, they were planning this huge attack and it all revolved around one specific thing: a weapon. Since I can remember everything, they made me work with their scientists to create untraceable plans for this weapon. Nobody can hack into the system and see the plans, because they’re inside of my head,” you tapped your temple, “Once they plans for the weapon were completed, I wiped the memories of all the scientists, destroyed any remaining data, and ran for my life.”

“And then you came here,” Peter thought out loud, putting the pieces together, “Because Fury told Mr. Stark about all of this.”

You nodded, “He knew that Tony would know how to analyze all of the data and help protect me at the same time. Those people from HYDRA are looking for me, and they’ll never stop until they extract the plans from my memory and kill me. I’ll never have a normal life, but I know what I signed up for.”

Peter was silent for a moment, taking in all of the information you’d just divulged. Suddenly he looked up at you, his gaze filled with determination as he promised, “I’ll never let anything happen to you.”

“You don’t even know me,” you gave him a lopsided smile, “Why would you risk your life like that?”

“Because it’s what friends do,” he stated, stopping at a door to his left, “This is your room. Feel, uh, feel free to let me know if you have any questions.”

He stepped out of the way, allowing you to enter your doorway. You paused for a moment to turn around and face him, giving him a soft smile. “Thank you, Peter.”

“Goodnight!” he waved and you shut the door quietly, taking a deep breath as heat pooled in your cheeks.

“Get it together, Y/N,” you whispered to yourself as you laid down on your bed, “You have a big day tomorrow; try to get at least a little sleep.”

________

Bruce was surprised to find you already awake when he entered your room that morning, holding a cup of coffee.

“Hey kiddo,” he smiled kindly, “We haven’t met yet, but I’m Bruce.”

You smiled back, replying, “I assumed so. Fury’s told me all about everyone at the tower.”

“Of course he did…” Bruce trailed off for a moment before turning his attention back to you, “Why’re you up so early? I would’ve assumed that you’d want to sleep in after a day like you had yesterday.”

“I, uh, couldn’t really sleep,” you rubbed the back of your neck, “And I’ve never really been allowed to sleep in, so I don’t think I could even if I wanted to.”

Bruce cast you a sympathetic look before holding out the coffee to you. “I didn’t know if you drink coffee, so I brought some up anyways.”

“Thank you so much,” you took the mug from his hands cautiously, taking a sip before asking, “So what’s the plan for today?”

“Well, Tony and I need to talk with you about the basic information you have so we can lay some groundwork for the data collection. After you do that, I think Tony’s gonna send you off with Pepper to get some clothes. I’m gonna leave you so you can take a moment to get ready; Tony and I will be waiting in the living room.” he smiled before shutting the door carefully, leaving you alone again.

You stood up slowly and walked into the bathroom so you could brush your hair and teeth. Other than that, there wasn’t much more “getting ready” to do considering the fact that you had no other clothes and you’d never even worn makeup.

As you were brushing your teeth, you took a moment to gaze into your own reflection in the mirror. You could see where the bandaged cut on your forehead and your almost-purple dark circles. It was obvious that you were exhausted, but there was nothing you could do to fix that. After you’d brushed your teeth and combed through your hair a few times, you left your room to head downstairs.

You noticed Tony and Bruce sitting by each other on the couch once you entered the room. They seemed to be in deep conversation, both looking over a tablet.

“Um, hi,” you said awkwardly, attempting to get their attention. Bruce glanced up at you and gave you a kind smile, gesturing for you to sit down next to them.

“Morning, kid,” Tony chirped, looking up at you, “You ready to get started?”

Seeing you nod your head, Tony opened up some sort of program on the tablet as Bruce pulled out his own. “We’re just gonna go over the basics of what you know today, so it shouldn’t take long. Try to answer our questions in as much detail as possible,” Tony instructed you. You nodded your head and prepared to let out everything that you’d collected over the past six years.

Some time later, Tony and Bruce had finally finished asking questions for the day. You could feel your eyes drooping due to the combination of the amount of energy you’d spent thinking and your lack of sleep. Luckily, Bruce noticed your fatigue and spoke up so you wouldn’t have to.

“You seem tired, Y/N. We’ve got it from here for the rest of the day, so you can go ahead and find Pepper,” he smiled, “We’ll need your help again tomorrow, so try to get some sleep tonight.”

“Her office is down the hallway and on the left!” Tony shouted after you as you exited the room.

Once you reached the large doors, you knocked lightly before entering the office. Pepper was typing on her computer when she looked up at you and smiled, gesturing for you to come around the desk.

“Hey! You’re Y/N, right?” she smiled and continued when you nodded, “Nice to meet you! Go ahead and swing a chair around to this side.”

You did as she asked, sitting next to her and glancing around her office. There were large ceiling-to-floor windows behind her neat desk; various paintings and pictures hanging on the walls. A shiny, silver kinetic sculpture sat on the edge of her desk, catching your eye as it moved in the sunlight.

“So, obviously you can buy any clothes you want. I’m just here to help you since shopping is always more fun with a friend, even if it’s just online shopping.” she gave you a wink and you giggled, leaning over to take control of the computer as she scooted away.

The two of you spent the next few hours choosing outfits and accessories for you to wear. You’d picked out mostly jeans, big t-shirts, and athletic shorts to wear around the tower. Pepper had convinced you to pick out a few nice outfits to wear in case of any fancy events (or ‘cute dates,’ as she’d so kindly suggested). After you’d finished picking out clothes, Pepper reached into her desk and pulled out a brand new phone, handing it to you.

“Here, Tony and I thought it would be a good idea for you to have an alternate way to communicate with us in case you ever need it. Our numbers should already be in there, and I included Bruce and Peter’s numbers as well.”

Taking the phone out of the box, you held it up carefully. You could tell that this was probably the most expensive phone on the market. “Ms. Potts, you really didn’t have to do this,” you turned your head to give her a nervous look. Nobody had ever bought anything this nice for you before.

“It’s really nothing,” she assured you, placing a hand on your shoulder, “After all, you’re family now.”

After chatting with Pepper for a few more minutes, you noticed that it was already late into the evening and decided to go back to your room and get ready for bed. Pepper sent you off with a hug and a smile, telling you that you needed to go to lunch with her soon.

Once you showered, you plopped down in your bed, phone open and in your hands. You’d never had a phone before, so you didn’t really know what to do with it. Social media was off the table since you needed to keep a low profile, so pretty much all you could do was play games and text.

Bored out of your mind, you decided to try out texting somebody. You tapped on the ‘contacts’ icon, scrolling through your four new friends. It didn’t take you long to decide that the person who was most likely to engage in a normal, teenage conversation with you was Peter.

Me: hey peter! it’s y/n.

Peter: hey! how’d you get my number?

Me: pepper put you into my contacts before she gave me the phone

Peter: oh, makes sense

Peter: so, what’s up?

Despite Bruce telling you to get some sleep, you stayed up all night texting Peter, only falling asleep when you were unable to keep your eyes open a second longer.

________

Over the next two months, you spent time working with Tony and Bruce in the lab whenever they required your assistance. It was tiring, using your abilities so often, but it kept you busy. Not being able to leave the tower could make life pretty boring, but you always had Peter to keep you company whenever you felt lonely. The two of you formed a friendship extremely quickly, constantly texting and hanging out. You spent as much time as you could together and it before you knew it, you were inseparable.

Almost as quickly as you became friends, you soon developed feelings for each other. You found yourself blushing more than you ever had at Peter’s comments, daydreaming about him whenever you should’ve been paying attention to Bruce and Tony. Butterflies filled your stomach every time he smiled at you and every small touch sent shivers up your body. It was obvious to everyone around you that you and Peter both shared these feelings, but the two of you were as oblivious as two people in love could be. Neither of you wanted to risk confessing to the other; it could ruin your entire friendship.

One late night in the tower, you and Peter had decided to try line dancing. You had absolutely no idea how it happened, but honestly? Doing odd things like line dancing wasn’t very unusual for the two of you. Currently, you were working on learning footloose. (It was safe to say that you were just a bit better at learning the dances than Peter, but he’d never admit it.)

“Peter! Watch out,” you laughed as he almost bumped into you for what seemed like the hundredth time, “I’m TRYING to line dance over hereeee!”

“Hey! I’m trying,” he laughed back, reach out to push you over. You dodged his arms, retaliating by attempting to push him back. Easily jumping out of the way, Peter stuck out his foot, tripping you while you were executing your attack. It felt like you were falling in slow motion as you lost your balance and landed on top of Peter, bring both of you to the ground with a thump.

As soon as you pushed off of Peter’s chest, you locked eyes, faces mere inches from each other. Something inside of you was pulling you towards him, urging you to kiss him. Everything was muffled around you as you began to lean forward slightly. His eyes flickering from your eyes to your lips and back was all the confirmation you needed before you leaned down all the way, pressing your lips to his gently. Peter froze for a moment before kissing you back softly, breaking apart after a few seconds. His eyes were blown wide, cheeks flushed and a huge smile on his face.

Once you realized what had just happened, you jumped off of him, apologizing profusely. “Oh god, Pete, I’m so sorry, I don’t know what got into me-”

“Y/N.”

“You probably hate me now, jesus I really fucked up didn’t I-” you stopped as Peter put a hand on your shoulder.

“Y/N. You don’t have to apologize for that.” he smiled kindly, giving your shoulder a quick squeeze.

“I-I don’t?”

“No. You see, I-I, uh, I actually like you a lot, too,” he glanced down at the floor before looking up at you, “I’ve kinda been wanting to do that for a long time.”

You threw him a quick smile before asking, “Wanna do it again?”

Instead of answering, he placed two hands on the sides of your face, pressing your lips to his once again. The kiss was still innocent, but it was definitely more confident than the previous one. You wish that it would have lasted longer, but the two of you were startled apart by the sound of your phone dinging.

You confusedly grabbed your phone, sliding it open to view the text message.

Unknown: We’re coming. There’s nowhere you can run to where we won’t find you.

Tears filled your eyes as you read the message over and over again. You were frozen in place; you didn’t even notice Peter asking you what was wrong multiple times, growing more worried by the second. Finally, he took the phone out of your hands gently, reading over the message that was on the screen. You looked up at him with wide, teary eyes before he wrapped you into a tight hug, telling FRIDAY to get Tony in there as quickly as possible. Everything was muffled as tears fell down your face, soaking into Peter’s soft shirt.

“I promise that they won’t hurt you,” he whispered into your hair, “I won’t let them hurt you.”

As much as you wanted to believe his words, you knew that if HYDRA really did want you, not even Peter would be able to stop them. You were already as good as dead.

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