#(and like everything it leads back to you. flannigans)

[ratatatastic]

my favourite photo that is lets unanimously decide to wear nice polos and not tell sasha about it

[lavellenchanted]

Hi! Do you have any comforting book/movie recs? Maybe with a sweet love story or friendship?

ABSOLUTELY I do!!

Books

Love Lettering by Kate Clayborn. This is a really charming romance about Meg, who does custom calligraphy, including wedding invitations, like the invites she did for Reid Sutherland a year ago. But now he's back, having spotted a hidden message she wove into his invitations warning him that his marriage was doomed. He wants to know how she knew, but Meg's got her own problems - but despite herself she feels a connection with Reid that's only growing deeper . . .

Everything Eva Ibbotson has ever written, especially her historical romances. My personal favourite is The Secret Countess, set in 1919, in which Anna, a Russian Countess, after fleeing from the Bolsheviks, takes a job as a maid in a young English Earl's household.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows - told in letters and the inspiration for the film, it's quite different from the movie in some respects but is just warm, gentle and a really cosy read.

Crosstalk by Connie Willis - this is a romcom with a slight sci-fi vibe; in the not too distance future Briddey Flannigan gets an implant to allow telepathic communication with her boyfriend so they can have a more open relationship, but instead finds herself connected to someone else entirely . . .

Attachments by Rainbow Rowell - this is such a gentle romance, set in the 90s, Lincoln works for a paper in their IT department and has been assigned to check emails that get flagged by their new system. One particular coworker, Beth, keeps getting her emails flagged and as he reads them, he finds himself falling in love with her . . . the only problem is he's never actually met her.

Anne of Green Gables (and sequels) by L. M. Montgomery - a true classic, that is just so joyful to read, and the love story between Anne and Gilbert is one of my very favourites.

The Boy trilogy by Meg Cabot - these are three of Meg Cabot's adult books, all loosely connected but they can be read as standlones, and are just fun, easy reads with nice romances that are really feel good.

Movies

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society - since I've plugged the book let's also plug the movie. It's gentle, it's warm, it's comforting, it's lovely and it's two hours of Michiel Huisman being charming.

The Shop Around the Corner - the original that inspired You've Got Mail, with James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan. It's lower stakes that YGM but still fun, romantic and really feel good.

When In Rome - this film is ridiculous but I love it, a romcom with Kristen Bell and Josh Duhamel where she takes coins out of a fountain in Rome causing four men to fall hopelessly in love with her.

The Longest Ride - this is based on a Nicholas Sparks novel and one of my comfort films. There's two love stories, one in the present day and one historical being told to the heroine by Alan Alda, and they're both really sweet.

Your Name - an anime film, I watched this a few years ago and it instantly became one of my all time favourites. It's so beautifully animated, and the romance in it is top tier.

When Fools Rush In - Matthew Perry and Salma Hayek have a one night stand in Las Vegas, but when she gets pregnant he proposes marriage on a whim and they try to build a life together. A stellar romcom and Matthew Perry said it was his favourite of all his films.

Belle (2013) - absolute peak period drama romance, and a truly underrated gem of a film.

Take the Lead - inspired by a true story, Antonia Banderas stars as a ballroom dancer who teaches a class of inner-city kids to dance. Beautiful, charming, romantic.

The Jane Austen Book Club - a group of women form a book club to read all the Jane Austen books, and find they help with their own problems. Lots of friendship and a bit of romance on the side.

And since it is December some special Christmas comfort movie plugs . . .

While You Were Sleeping - Sandra Bullock saves a man from an oncoming train, but gets mistaken by his family for his financee and then starts falling for his brother. A+++ rom com.

Christmas in Boston - two penpals finally agree to meet after writing for 13 years. The catch? They both sent each other pictures of their best friends and pretended it was them.

Dash & Lily - a series rather than a movie but super cute. Lily leaves a notebook with some challenges in a bookstore, Dash finds it and does them, and leaves her some of his own in return, and thus an unlikely friendship is born.

Midnight at the Magnolia - radio hosts and childhood friends Maggie and Jack fake being a couple to drive up the ratings on their show.

Miracle on 34th Street - both the original 1940s version and the 90s remark are great, in which a lawyer and a little girl have to prove that a man claiming to be Santa is the real thing when he's put on trial.

The 12 Dates of Christmas - woman set up on a blind date on Christmas Eve has to relive the night over and over until she gets it right.

I hope those will do you for a while and that you enjoy them!!! Shout if you need any more :)

[siempre-bucky]

Run

Dympna Devers x Reader

Summary: Dympna left you, wanting you to have a better life away from him. Then the question was asked...where did his loyalty lie

A/n: I watched it again and wanted to rewrite a scene? I'm a simp for him. enjoy.

wc: 833

warnings: blood, guns, violence

tagging the unimind: @mothdruid @waspswidows

Dympna felt the numbing sensation on his forehead first. Then he smelled the foul smell of the spilled blood. Then he tasted the iron of his blood on his tongue. Everything rushed back to him too quickly; Arm's betrayal, Flannigan's lifeless body still above him, the pup that just needed a trip to the vet...you. The angered look on your face that morning hurt worse than the butt of his uncle's gun.

When Dympna finally managed to open his eyes, his vision was still a blur, but he could make out the shape of his lanky uncle standing in front of him with his rifle over his shoulder, "Welcome back to the living, nephew....not that yer deservin' of it," he grumbled bitterly.

The blond struggled to sit up, his hands anchored to the floor so he could slide up against the tin walls of the shed. His wrist connected with the barrel of his fallen pistol. In a smooth motion, he hid the gun behind his back.

Paudi stepped closer, Dympna's scared blue eyes locked onto his. The stench of torture and off-brand cologne cut through the smell of the iron. "Still wanna take care of it, you little cunt?" he spat as he kneeled to Dympna's level. His dirty hand gripped the thick chain around the younger's neck. The old man's eyes glance down, landing on a silver necklace that fit in between the two he was familiar with. He'd never seen the pendant with an engraved sun before.

His blood ran ice cold in the younger man's body as he watched Paudi's eyes. His dirt-ridden finger tapped the pendant lightly, "Paudi," he managed, "I-I'll call Arm. We'll find him."

"Where does your loyalty lie, Dympna?" he cut in, changing the subject.

"My family," he grunted but his tongue felt like lead, the weight of one singular pointer finger felt like a dozen trucks. Paudi's eyes went back to Dympna's, once again taking hold of the thick chain and pulling his chest towards him.

"Ya sure about that, boy? Ya, let him go. And we don't want to hurt anyone else, do we?" The blond knew exactly who Paudi was referring to in his condescending tone of voice.

His hearing was muffled after that. The sweet tones of joyful laughter and kind words surrounded his mind. He set you free. Or at least he thought when he showed up at your house, telling you that he was trying to protect you from his family. You didn't deserve this. He didn't deserve this. If Arm had an ounce of morality left, who's to say he didn't.

Run. His last words to you, his last words to Arm...the last words to himself. He slowly reached for the gum behind him, taking it in his hand, pointer finger on the trigger. "What say ya, boy?"

There was a bang, followed by a blood-curdling scream. Dympna hobbled to his feet, the smoking gun still in hand. Paudi fell to the floor, his shaky hands clinging to his thigh as blood surrounded it, soaking his pants.

His actions were all a blur. He could barely remember sprinting to the office, collecting the duffle bag of money and the keys to Paudi's blue pickup. He shouted your name as the truck came to a screeching halt on the pavement in front of your home.

There was no response, your bedroom window remained dark. He shouted again and threw a rock at the glass. "Please," he whispered to himself as he threw another stone. The rickety front door finally opened cautiously.

"What do you want? Haven't you broken my heart enough, D?" You huff as you slammed the door behind you. His eyes pinned to your neckline, you still wore the necklace that complimented his.

"I was wrong! We need to fuckin' leave. Now!" he hurried.

You shook your head. Here's the man who hours prior broke your heart saying he wasn't good enough for you, and he's only trying to protect you. He looked so broken, you noticed as your eyes panned downward. Was that blood? His acid wash jeans splattered with the dried blood, his knuckles bruised. Maybe this was what Dympna meant? "What the hell is happening?" you question angrily as you trot over to him.

"A-all te' plans we made to get outta here... I want 'em. We don't have much time. Let's run. Please, love, I was wrong." Dympna was grabbing at your arms, his blue eyes teary and remorseful. His loyalty was with you, it always was.

You placed your warm hands on the sides of his cold face, "Ok," you whispered to calm him. "We'll go, we'll go." The shaken man nodded and fell into your embrace, his fingers gripping your back. His sweat-ridden forehead placed on your shoulder, breathing in the smell of your perfume and laundry detergent. The touch of your hands on his back silenced his mind and most of the fears. "Let's get you out of here, yeah?"

[zoebechtle-blog]

Unlikey Chapter 6

At Niall’s insistence, I let him take me home. Paul was pissed that I was missing quiz night for the second week in a row, a fight not being a reasonable excuse for abandoning him and not defending our honor. He let it be known that if I missed next week he was breaking up with me for good. I kissed his cheek, and when I went to lift my head, he whispered, “I love you. And if he hurts you again, know they won’t find his body. I’m from Lincolnshire. I know hog farmers.” This boy watched too much true crime TV. I gave him a second kiss (God, I couldn’t have found a better gay boyfriend) and assured him that if that was the case, I’d help him.

Leaving, we encountered something new for me. Two girls, probably nineteen or so, stopped Niall as we walked out of the pub. One looked absolutely starstruck, mouth agape (girl, I feel ya), and the other took charge, asking questions. They verified his identity and let out little squeals. He sweetly hugged them both and took the selfies with them himself because their hands shook too much to hold the phones. I dug in my bag with my left hand, and retrieved a small notebook and pen I always carried, and thrusted them at him.

“Here, so they can have your autograph, too.” The shocked girl smiled at me and whispered a thank you. I gave her a thumbs up.

The ride to my flat was fairly quiet. I tried to give him directions, but ended up thoroughly confusing him. He put my address into his navigation system and let it lead the way. I was hit with a bit of who he was - his fame and his wealth (and that we didn’t really exist on the same planet) this evening. I was pretty sure this SUV cost more than my entire post-secondary education (six years, if you’re keeping track).  The seats were made of leather so soft that I wanted to rub my cheek against them. Casually, I did. When he turned on my seat warmer, I let out a little moan.

“Like that, huh?” He sided eyed me at the stoplight, giving me a cocky little grin.

“Mmmm. A warm ass is a great thing.”

He shook his head and kept up his smile. I think we both knew what he was thinking. And it was on my mind, too. Unable to meet his eye, I watched London pass by out the window and tapped my feet to the music playing.

“Who is this? I really like it.”

“It’s good, right? My mate Bressie’s band, The Blizzards. Big back home.”

“Bressie. He commented on your Insta the other day, didn’t he?” I knew exactly who Bressie was. I’d almost licked my phone when I saw his picture. Big, tall, and muscular, he was every crush I’d ever had wrapped up into one. And it might be fun to see where Niall stood.

“Yep. One of my best buddies.”

“He’s hot.” I side eyed Niall and caught his jaw drop just a hint. “Like really, really, hot. He should have auditioned to play Superman.” He gripped the wheel a little tighter, and it was everything I could do not to laugh out loud. “I’d hit that like the wrath of God.” He had a cute little vein in his neck that bulged, and I couldn’t hold it in any longer, shaking with laughter. “You’re a little green there, punkin’.”

“That wasn’t nice. Thought I was going to have to beat up my own friend to win your affection.” He gave me a relieved smile, and I grinned back at him.

I had warned him that parking near my flat was a challenge. Having never owned a  car in London, I didn’t quite grasp how annoying on the street parking was until now. The only time I rode in a car I was usually picked up or dropped off. Niall circled around twice, muttering to himself.

“You can just let me out,” I offered. I wasn’t really sure what his plans were, and I didn’t want to impose on his time. “My flat is a mess anyhow and I fear I might scare you away if you see what a disaster I am.”

“Not possible.”

“No, really. It’ll be like that old episode of Full House when Danny goes on a date and gets back to the girl’s place and there are clothes and food everywhere and he about has a coronary. I’m trying to save you.” And now this seemed kind of real and I was more than a little terrified.

He chuckled. “Are you comparing me to Danny Tanner? I’m totally a Joey and Uncle Jesse hybrid.” Oh snap, he knows his Full House. “I’m not that much of a neat freak.”

I scoffed, “Dude, I’ve slept in your room. I creeped your closet. I’m terrified of your anal retentive wa-Stop!”

He slammed on the brakes, both of us jerking forward a bit. “Old Man Flannigan is walking to his car,” I gestured wildly behind us. “It’s the red VW.”

“Shite, it’ll be gone by the time we can get around the block again. This street is too narrow for me to let him by so I can back up.”

“No problem.” I unbuckled my seatbelt and opened the door as Flannigan flipped on his headlights. “I’ve got it. Go.” I motioned him to leave.

“Z, I’m coming inside with ya, I’m not leaving you here.” Flannigan had pulled out and was behind us and honked his horn, looking as annoyed as ever.

“No, dummy. I’m going to save the space. Go around the block again.” I rolled my eyes at him and shut the door, walking back and giving the old man behind us my biggest, fakest smile. He flipped me off. I stood in the empty space and waited for Niall to come back around, waving off people who thought they could slide in. It had gotten chilly, as it’s prone to do in mid-March London, and I danced around trying to warm myself a bit. My hand throbbed and had swollen to what felt like an Incredible Hulk sized fist, and there was going to be a lovely bruise, but I could move it so I figured I was okay. When the black SUV approached, I raised my arms and shook my hips, turning in a circle. He shook his head and rolled down the window.

“Move, ya nutter.” Surprising myself, I blew him an exaggerated kiss that he caught and pretended to rub on his lips. I waited on the sidewalk as he maneuvered into the space.

“Ya know, there’s something undeniably sexy about a man who can parallel park,” I informed him as he got out, hopping from foot to foot to keep my blood flowing.

“Really? You should see me do a three point turn.”

“Dirty talk.”

He wrapped an arm around my shoulder as we walked the four doors down to my building. “Ya cold? Your jacket isn’t very thick.”

“Freezing. Let’s get inside.” He pulled me closer and I rested my head on his shoulder.

I’d considered making him wait in the hall for ten minutes while I did a quick sweep through, but honestly, I didn’t have that much energy. And I was one handed. To know me is to love me, and part of that is my propensity for leaving a trail of my belongings anywhere I’d been. And to realize I wasn’t going to do the dishes until they smelled.

We went inside and he looked around, as you do in a new space. It wasn’t as messy as I feared (I’d gotten ready in a flash this morning, having accidentally turned off my alarm). There was, however, a bra lying on the kitchen table. A very large, very red lace bra. Our eyes landed on it at the same time, and I dove to retrieve it, stuffing it in my purse as he let out a hyena laugh.

“So this is my place. Grand tour - kitchen is there, this is the living room, bathroom is back there, and the magic happens there,” I pointed to my bedroom and gave him a half smile. “By magic, of course, I mean sleep.”

“Yeah. Course.” He wiggled his eyebrow and shot me a wry smile. “Let’s get you some fresh ice, yeah? You’re swelling up pretty good.”

“There’s a bag of peas in the freezer. Could you grab them for me?” I toed off my boots as he walked into the kitchen. I watched him walk in and open the fridge and felt my heart squeeze just a little. This is the first time, other than the pub bathroom and hallway, that we had ever been in a space alone. Trying to control myself, I walked over and turned on my “chill” playlist (creative at naming such things I am not). “Beg, Steal, or Borrow” by Ray LaMontagne filled the flat as I walked into the kitchen.

“Are these your nephews?” He motioned at the picture on the fridge of me with three golden haired boys, tucked among various invitations and save-the-dates as he handed me the peas.

“There’s beer in there if you want to grab some,” I told him, reaching into the cabinet and getting out a bottle of ibuprofen. “And yeah, those are the boys. Jack is the oldest, Sam in the middle, and Charlie is the little guy I’m holding. That’s a from Christmas a year ago, the last time I was home.” I accepted the bottle of Harp he handed me and I passed him the medicine bottle. “Could you open these for me, please?” He handed me three and I washed them down with the beer. We stood awkwardly, both leaning against the counter. I faced him, truly appreciating how handsome he was as he swallowed his drink, his lean body in skinnies and a comfy looking blue henley. Something about his Adam’s apple moving caused a definite clench in my pants. And his profile was amazing. He might just have the world’s most perfect nose, and those lips. It took a hundredth of a second for me to imagine, for the umpteenth time, kissing them and how’d they feel on any and every part of my body.

“You’re starin’,” his deep voice interrupted my dirty thoughts. Shit, he caught me. “What’s going on it that mind of yours, Zo?”

Jeff Buckley sang about lilac wine in the other room, and surprisingly my flush wasn’t as bad as it could be. What the hell, might as well go for it.

“I was thinking about you.”

“Yeah?” He turned his body towards mine, and stepped closer. “I’m right here. Whatcha thinkin’ about?”

“I’ve told you about my most embarrassing experience (falling down a flight of stairs in my prom dress in front of the whole senior class), how much I can’t stand my brother, why I love my job, and all that. I know your fear of needles, all about the first time you got drunk, and why you’re never allowed back in that hotel in Tokyo. We’ve shared more than I have with some people I’ve been with for months. And we’ve never kissed.” Your move, Horan.

I’m happy to say that he took the gauntlet I’d thrown down. Before I could close my mouth completely from my last words, his hand was behind my ear and the other arm wrapped around my waist. His lips were every bit as soft as they looked, and his breath was warm. His tongue traced the seam of my lips, and I opened slightly for him. I could taste the beer, but also a touch of mint, like he’d been chewing gum earlier. It was sweet and my god, I never wanted anything else. He made tiny little noises of pleasure, as he held me against the cabinets, his thumbs rubbing circles in their locations. My arms were around his neck, holding his head to mine with my good hand. I could feel his smile against my mouth. I hoped he felt mine, too.

We broke apart, and it took everything in my power not to climb him like a tree. I know my grin was goofy, but to be fair, so was his. Maybe even sillier than mine. His hand stayed behind my ear, anchoring my forehead against his. When he exhaled again, he let out a little laugh that warmed me down to my toes.

“Been wantin’ to do that for a month now. Christ, woman.”

Not one to ever do anything in moderation, ever (my ass can testify to that), I pulled his head back down for more. This time he was a little more forceful, pinning me with his hips, his left hand running down my side. My nipples responded to the electricity, and I pressed them into his chest. He groaned and sucked on my tongue. I was done. These underwear just went the way of the Titanic.

We ended up on the sofa, kissing like horny sixteen year olds. The little bit of scruff he had was rubbing my chin raw, but I had zero fucks to give. His weight on top of me was perfect, and I’d wrapped a leg around the back of his thigh. When Chet Faker’s cover of “No Diggity” started in the background, he raised his head and smiled, his eyes crinkling, showing his eye dimple, which I decided I wanted to claim as mine.

“Love this song.”

In response I started singing along. “...gettin’ paid is our forte, each and every day, true player way.” He joined me me, our faces inches from each others, so close that I could count the freckles on his nose and observe the lines in his forehead when he raised his eyebrows, both of us singing and laughing. The moment was something out of Nicholas Sparks novel, if he used folk covers of 90s rap hits as a plot device. I lifted my head and rubbed my nose against his, and whispered in my best phone sex operator voice, “Stroke. Stroke.” His peals of laughter had to be heard on the street. That noise was a high I’d never experienced, and I was going to crave it from there on out. I was hooked on this stupid dork to spite myself. I didn’t care about who he was or what he did. This guy on top of me, even if he was a street sweeper living in a van down by the river, could own me just with those eyes, that laugh, and his grin. What surprised me most was what he said next:

“You scare me, Z.”

Huh? To quote the man himself, I’m about as intimidating as a baby penguin (all bark and absolutely no bite). My confusion was written all over my face, and he ran his thumb across the furrow of my brows.

“I’ve already fucked this up once. I have no idea what I’m doing and I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Okay. Don’t then. Don’t get in your own head. Let’s just be.”

Now if that isn’t easier said than done.

[hardblazesong]

Noir Nocturne Part 1 Chapter 11 My Future Just Passed

“Well come on then. You might as well have a cup or two yourselves.” Rhea Bartlett waved them in from her place by the stove top. “Just percolated, my favorite!” she said reaching for some mugs on a shelf above the range. “Sugar and cream on the table. Don’t tell the others I did this for you, I won’t hear the end of it.”

Claire was beginning to suspect that Mrs. Bartlett’s bark was worse than her bite. “You have a lovely home Ma’am. Our rooms are perfect. I can’t tell you how much I am looking forward to a long soak in the tub.” She took her mug and one for Jamie and sat down at a much smaller table then the one in the dining room. The kitchen was not that large but all six of them weren’t cramped up next to each other either.

“Rhea’s just fine Honey. Mr. Bartlett’s been gone a long time now and was my third husband anyway. Everyone but the Father calls me Rhea. You all will be phoning him shortly? He says as you are to head to the Employment office today. Good. Can’t abide slackers and no accounts. Actors, well, you’re your own breed ain’t ya? I ought a know, used to be one myself.  Which is why I know better than to rent to the likes of most of ‘em. Loads of theaters around here but figure they are swamped with people looking for jobs same as everywhere else. You fellas certainly wouldn’t look out of place in a Western picture, what with them beards and long hair and all. Was that what you were doing out in the park? Filming something? Father was a bit short on details, just said as I should make a place for ya and treat you kindly if I found you odd, what with being foreign like.”

Claire wondered if Rhea always ran on like this or if something about them was making her a bit nervous. She couldn’t help but smile as she stirred the cream in her coffee and inhaled the heavenly aroma. “Um, we were just day extras on a period piece for an associate of mine who needed some bodies for the scenery. I’m usually a nurse and these gentlemen are relatives of my husband who traveled with us from Scotland to make a new start in America. American Dream and all that? Father McDaniel is a friend of our family back home so we stopped in to see him and he recommended you as a central location to live in while we resettle.” she lied adding just enough of the truth to keep it straight for future reference.

“Oh Aye, the Father and I go way back.” Angus said smiling at Rhea and scratching his chin. Dougal choked on his coffee and Murtagh slapped him on the back.

“So, you were an Actress too Mrs., … Rhea?” Jamie grinned at her, pinking a bit about the tips of his ears at the use of her name and not her title. Claire, who thought Jamie’s grin would charm the birds from the trees, avoided looking at him directly, so as not to laugh outright at his fumble of her name.

“Heavens yes. I’m in loads of the Silents. Not much to it, just a bunch of making silly faces and pretending to say things, while actually saying something else. That is until the lip readers caught on. What a scandal that was! Came out here with Mack Sennett when he moved from New York. What a man! I was in The Sheik with dear Rudolph, may he rest in peace. Those photos up in the attic are from my career and from some of the famous people who have stayed here over the years. Had to give it up though. Mr. Bartlett did not want me hanging around loose sorts. Too many shenanigans for his liking. You could be an actress dear, you sure got the looks for it. Bet those golden eyes of yours would be something to see on the big screen. Red here would look good in a gangster show if ya cleaned him up a bit.” She said sitting down next to Jamie and patting his arm.

“Shouldn’t we be getting on with it now Claire?” Dougal said as he poured himself another cup. “I’m hungry. Where can I find some parritch Rhea?” he smiled his most charming smile at her.

“Oh, there’s a diner a block over Handsome. Can’t miss it. Foods not as good as mine, mind you, but it’s passable. No idea what parritch is though. If you’re not particular about what you’re having there’s a tamale stand up on the corner. Those are cheap, sort of filling, Mexican things. Mr. Andretti should be around with his truck around lunch time if you want Eyetalian. There’s Chinese right close too.”

Claire finished her coffee and took the mug to the sink. “Shall I wash these Rhea? Speaking of washing, can that be done here? Their kilts and some other items are in desperate need of it.”

“Don’t worry on it Sister. I’ll take care of the cups before my shows come on the radio. The washing machine is in the basement and the lines are out back to hang to dry. Don’t think we’ll be getting rain today or tomorrow. My bones would tell me if we were. There’s lines in the basement too if it does. Basements are rare in California but I am glad to have it. Cold storage down there as well.”

“Might I use the telephone now? Father McDaniel said to call when we were settled before we went about our day.”

“Certainly, it’s in my parlor through there. You all won’t be using the parlor for anything other than the phone though. That’s my private space to get away from it all. You can use the den for the radio or cards or reading with everyone else in the house. Don’t imagine you’ll convince anyone else to change the radio stations though and I won’t get involved in squabbles over it. Feel free to listen to the record collection. Most of them got left here by some musicians who couldn’t pay.”

Claire nodded and signaled to Jamie to come with her to the phone. He rose and placed his cup in the sink as well, following her lead.

The parlor had a comfy feminine feel to it with a squashy armchair next to a radio sitting on a side table. The telephone was on a small table on the opposite side. “Here Jamie, watch me and put your ear here next to mine on the other side of the receiver” she said as she took a piece of paper out of her handbag. She slowly dialed zero, making a production of it so he could see what she was doing. While the phone rang she explained “This is a telephone and the phone number that reaches Father McDaniel is on this paper.”

“Operator” said a voice in their ears.

“Yes Operator, Griffith 5599 please.”

“One moment please” and then a series of clicks were heard followed by ringing buzzing sound.

“Rectory, Father Joe McDaniel speaking” came next in that lovely Irish accent. Jamie started and looked at Claire with amazement written all over his face.

“Yes Father, Claire Fraser, calling as requested. Jamie’s on the line as well. We got here just fine and Tommy Flannigan was very kind to us. The Boarding House is grand. I am sure we will be happy here.”

“Well, Mrs. Bartlett’s a character to be sure Claire, but she has a heart of gold really. How are the laddies holding up? James? You think you will survive it all?” They heard him laughing as he said this and Claire nodded to Jamie to signal he should talk.

“Yes, Father I’ll do.” He said rather too loudly.

“You needn’t shout son. Just talk in your normal voice or maybe a wee bit quieter if you don’t want others to hear you. You’ll be knowing the ways of it in no time flat. You’ll need to see Mr. Blake at the Employment office. Ask for him in particular when you get through the line at the door. He’s told me he has some day labor at the new airport for you and the others that might last a week. Mostly clearing a field where they are putting in another runway. You won’t have to drive anything, just back breaking shoveling and clearing most likely. They pay daily at the end of your shift, and pretty good wages too. Claire, I’ve told Dr. Hernandez you will be there tomorrow at nine. He sounded very pleased to be getting some help. I think he can only pay you for three days a week though. So, you might want to be checking for something else too. I haven’t called the Pawn Shop yet as I imagine the money I gave you will make it for a week or more if your careful.”

“I will be Father, thank you again for everything you are doing for us. We would be lost without you.” She said as she smiled at Jamie who seemed to be getting over the shock of hearing the Father’s voice but not seeing him.

“Let me speak to James alone for a few minutes Mrs. Fraser and you be sure to call me in a couple of days with news of how it’s going. I won’t expect you for mass right away, but don’t be forgetting that I expect you to come now.”

“All right Father. Here he is.” She shrugged her shoulders and stepped away from the phone, wondering what he wanted from Jamie but not really worrying about it.

“Yes Father, I will. No, I havena. No, oh? Yes Father, Greek, Latin, French, Spanish, Ghalidgh, Gaelic and a bit of a few others. Certainly, in several languages as well. Thank you, Father, I had verra fine tutors. I’ve a good ear for languages and figures are no problem….”

Claire had taken a seat across the room and tried not to listen in, but it was fascinating watching him standing there, not completely at ease, but looking serious and studious. He was out of his element but so in control of himself it nearly took her breath away. This must be what he would be like as a Laird and not a stable hand, outlaw or soldier she thought. Composed, quiet, intent on the discussion with the Priest, he looked almost regal with his red gold mane shining in the light from a nearby window. The suit favored him so much she found her mouth watering at the thought of what was under it.

“Yes Father, I promise I will discuss it with her soon. Yes, I will get him for you.” Was the last thing she heard him say before he placed the receiver on the table and went back to the doorway calling to Dougal.

“Dougal, the Father wants to speak with you on the machine. Come here Man and I will show you how.”

Claire flinched, hoping Rhea hadn’t heard that. Ah well, she thought, there would be many more slip ups before it was all said and done she was sure. She watched as Jamie showed Dougal how to hold the phone and headed back to the kitchen. Angus and Murtagh were talking quietly and Rhea was nowhere to be seen.

“I think the Father is going to want to speak with each of you, so you might as well head in there. We’ll leave when you are done and find something to eat.” She collected their mugs and spoons decided to wash the dishes anyway, a small kindness, but a familiar chore she had always been rather fond of. It was a way for her to not have to think, just do. She handed Jamie a towel when he came to her side and pointed out the drainer. “When I rinse and put them in there, you take them out and dry them and set them on the counter please.”

He made a strange face at her, but took the hand towel. Angus snorted while rising from the table and Murtagh chuckled as he followed suit. “If Mrs. Fitz saw ye doin that she’d ha’e a fit” Angus said over his shoulder as they went into the parlor with Dougal.

“What did Father McDaniel want?” she asked, pretending that she hadn’t already figured out most of the conversation from his end and ignoring the need to say something catty to Angus.

“He just wanted to ken more about me and gi’e me some advice. Be encouraging I guess.” Jamie said, drying one of the cups gingerly in his large hands.

She could tell there was more to it as he wouldn’t look at her when he said this. He normally looked straight in her eyes whenever he said anything to her. Right from the beginning he had been open like that although there had been several times she hadn’t been able to read the expression on his face, or lack thereof.

“Well, that was kind of him. You’d tell me if there was more to it?”

“Aye Sassenach, dinna fash.”

TO BE CONTINUED.

[wearemmauk-blog]

Evolution of Combat 4 review featuring James Doolan, David Galbraith and Dan Hope

Evolution of Combat 4 review featuring James Doolan, David Galbraith and Dan Hope - https://mmauk.net/2019/04/23/evolution-of-combat-4-review-featuring-james-doolan-and-dan-hope/

Evolution of Combat 4 review featuring James Doolan, David Galbraith and Dan Hope

Evolution of Combat 4 took place in Glasgow on Saturday 20th April 2019 at the Maryhill Community Hall.

This was the promotions first venture to Scotland and they picked a venue steeped in Scottish MMA history, a place where the Dinky Ninja Fight Team helped make MMA in Scotland what it is now.

Picking a good venue is one thing but having good fights is another and again Evolution of Combat 4 delivered.

The show was kicked off by four grappling bouts, two of which were title bouts, then an absorbing K1 fight between Alex Burns and Jake Staerke, which ended up a draw.

Next up was the amateur card. There was an international flavour to proceedings, with 4 Icelandic, a Dutch and a Finnish fighter on the card. Most of the fights were evenly matched, some going the distance, some knockouts and some submissions.

Two young fighters Jack Leckie and Alex Meikle made their debut against each other and both guys gave their all in an entertaining fight. Leckie winning by unanimous decision but both guys can be proud of their debut.

  Young Sean Clancy Jr, in only his second fight, still only 16 years old, faced a young Icelander, most of the Icelandic team had good grappling skills and Jon Ingi was from this mold, landing a takedown and looking to grapple however young Clancy Jr was able to capitalise and won by TKO due to ground and pound. A great learning experience for Clancy Jr.

Other notable mentions on the amateur card, were Thomas Callaghan, who had been out of action for a while, returned with a good performance to win by unanimous decision, Jeff Akhah won by TKO in a quickfire first-round win.

There was also some disappointment for some of the Scots involved as Sean Stroud, Justin Flannigan and Chris Gregg all suffered first-round defeats against decent opposition from The Netherlands and Iceland.

The pro card was up next with Fee Chrystall taking on Veera Nykanen from Finland, this was a competitive fight throughout with both fighters having their moments but it was to be Fee Chrystall’s night winning by split decision to record her first win as a pro.

    The main event featured a Scotland v England bout with Higher Level’s Jason Woods up against Kaizen’s Adam Gregory. This was a fairly even match up with a lot of grappling involved until Gregory landed an axe kick to Woods who was still grounded, resulting in a disqualification win for Woods.

I spoke to Higher Level’s James Doolan, who had four fighters on the card, for his thoughts of the night.

It’s clear Doolan enjoyed the show and the setting.

“I liked the format of Evolution of Combat having the submission only grappling matches on early before the MMA fights.

“The venue has always been brilliant, the first MMA fights in Scotland took place in the central halls, I fought there 4 times myself back in the day, it’s always cool to go back.

“The show was really well run and the fighters were looked after. I think to have an ex-pro fighter in Dan Hope running it, he’s going to ensure that’s always the case as he will know it makes a difference. No massive intervals, raffles or gaps between fights is always good.”

Doolan was also happy with the officials that were used.

He said, “The fact they used MMA officials was decent as too often up here shows use whatever local guys are free on fight night and some of them, not all, shouldn’t be officiating fights.”

Doolan was happy with the matchmaking and hope’s to see the promotion return.

“The fights all seemed pretty well matched on the night, I know this is something Dan Hope is keen to keep as a standard on the show, on a personal note the guys worked hard and took financial risks bring in opponents for some of our fighters especially Fee Chrystall who’s hard to match and Justin Flannigan who had about 4 different opponents before fight night. Hopefully, the show returns to Scotland on a regular basis.”

Doolan gives us an insight into how he felt his fighters performed on the night.

“Performance-wise Sean Clancy showed great toughness and a well-rounded skill set far beyond any other 16-year old I’ve seen in his win over an older bigger Icelandic opponent. He’s one to watch for the future.

“Justin Flannigan never got going unfortunately and was made to pay for it against a good Dutch opponent. Back to the gym for him and some areas to address.

“Fee Chrystall and her Finnish opponent had the most technical fight of the night, Fee got the points to win which I felt was right just due to her landing more strikes in round 1 and 3. Happy for her as she puts everything into MMA and it’s hard for her with her being so small and not a lot of girls around to train with or compete against. She got to showcase a lot of the work we have done in the gym and the changes she has made since coming to Higher Level.

“In the main event, Jason Woods was getting beat before his opponent got DQ’d for axe kicking him in the face when he was in a downed position. Some ring rust there from Jason I think as he’s not fought in a while. I know he’s asked for the fight to happen again so we will see. Will go on his record as a Win via DQ but it wasn’t a win in any way. Lessons to be learned.”

Also coaching at the show was New Life Gym head coach David Galbraith who had two fighters appear on the card.

It seems Galbraith was also happy with how the show went.

“I really liked the show as they channelled their energy into the right areas meaning it was a transparent legitimate show. All matches were fairly matched, all the officials were completely unbiased, the cage was in good condition and they had an ambulance on site.”

Galbraith continues, “This was our first outing in Scotland for almost 2 years. I got linked to the promotion via Dan Hope who is a good guy. You can see through his actions he wants what’s best for the sport and the fighters who participated in his events.”

Galbraith then explains how the Maryhill Community Hall brings back memories for himself and talks about how his fighters fared.

“I’ve known Thomas Callaghan since he was a kid. I’ve lost count of how many injuries he’s had and the challenges he’s faced mentally with anxiety and low confidence. Most kids would have quit after the first hurdle but he just kept coming back. Around July last year the day before our gym got flooded we went down to Sunderland for some fights so we had a lot of time to chat. He told me he wasn’t sure if he could compete in MMA again. I promised him I have a solution to his issues and we would gradually work on those issues to get him back in the cage. I wasn’t to know we would be flooded the next day and Thomas actually came to my rescue as I was about to lose everything. From there we built up Thomas and he totally transformed himself into what could be something special.

“I said to Thomas before he fought that our resurgence logo was inspired by the painting of the rising Phoenix which was painted on the side of the building he was fighting in. The very building I fought Stevie Clarke in for my first fight in 2 years which was a turning point for me as I was told previously by doctors I would never fight again due to a bad injury.

“His (Callaghan) performance was outstanding and he implemented everything we asked of him against a very tough Icelandic fighter from a very good camp. Thomas’s story is remarkable and this is just the surface of it. Jill has put in a lot of work with Thomas’s striking which really showed on Saturday. His opponent wanted no part in it as soon as Thomas landed on him he shot for the takedown which we had planned for.

As for his other fighter Chris Gregg, Galbraith breaks down Chris’s fight.

“Chris’s fight camp went really well on the build-up as he was off the back of a trip to Thailand where he won the equivalent of a pro rules Thai fight. He was on a four-fight winning streak and was looking in great condition on the lead up to this bout.

“During the fight itself, I felt we had everything under control up until he got subbed. He implemented many instructions in the gameplay and had to change things slightly which seen him inside his opponents’ guard. He made one mistake and his opponent capitalised on it resulting in the armbar. A tough lesson for Chris but one we will learn from.

“His opponent has loads of talent and I’m sure we will see him go far in the sport. He definitely had that X-factor about him. It’s back to the drawing board for Chris and we will iron out the issue which led to the defeat. Chris is aspiring to go pro so these lessons are important at amateur hence the reason we took the match as we knew it was a tough fight. Regardless Chris is a friend and a dam good fighter.”

Galbraith explains that he will look to have his fighters appearing more Evolution of Combat events.

“We will be supporting future shows and will be happy to travel down south to take part. It wasn’t a big shiny spectacular show but the foundations are solid so we are in. These basics can be overlooked a lot of the time so it was a privilege to have our guys fight on the show and also sponsor the show.”

Thanks to James Doolan and David Galbraith for their honest and frank assessments of the night.

I also spoke to Dan Hope from Evolution Of Combat on how he felt the night went.

He started by saying how great the Glasgow atmosphere was.

“The atmosphere in Glasgow was incredible! Every competitor gave it there all.” Hope said, “I feel we managed to bring the high standard of event production from England to Scotland. Everyone involved was incredible and can’t thank them all enough. The support from the Scottish gyms was great.

“I’m looking forward to watching the footage in full. The international card we put on had exciting fights from start to finish. Just wish I was in the audience and not running about organising everything haha.”

So will Evolution of Combat be returning? It seems likely.

Hope said, “We will look at adding another date in Scotland in the future. We will match or surpass what we did this weekend with the support of the Scottish gyms.”

From what I have seen, Evolution of Combat would be a welcome addition to the Scottish MMA scene and hopefully, they can add more shows to their calendar in Scotland. Ideally, base themselves at the Maryhill Community Hall to build and grow their brand and they could really take off. There is a dearth of shows put on within the city of Glasgow and would be great to see an event call the city home.

[bloodinhershoesrpg]

WHEN THE CURTAIN DROPS...

You’re a walking enigma, two lifestyles united in a single girl’s body. Rough edges and a love for provocation made a career in ballet an unlikely guess among your peers, all of them declaring you far more likely to become the lead singer of a grunge band, wildly coloured streaks bringing life to a messy bedhead. That your lessons weren’t merely a ghost of the past, an unpleasant childhood experience one cringed about as a way of finally suppressing it, no one in your teenage clique knew, your pierced nose not making for the most balanced look in tulle and ruffles — thus you took it out once the door closed behind you. As much of a rebel as you were, it was never hard for you to blend in, lines easily blurred beneath layers of cigarette smoke. Your ambitions were your secret to keep but that you had the guts to achieve whatever you set your mind on, none of your acquaintances would have ever doubted. Hard work’s sweat stains your cheeks in place of choked back tears, the result of gritted teeth and an iron will to be better, the best, the one and only. Everything it takes to go far in this business you posess; the training, the physique, the poise and, last but not least, the will to push through, no matter what it takes.

...YOU SHOW YOUR TRUE COLOURS

You’ve got what it takes but has it ever been enough? Encouraging laudatios, high hopes, arrangments in sight — but every single time, you end up second best, always beat out by some other girl who was more graceful, more swanlike, more precise than you by as little as a pinch of salt. The neverending role of the perpetual second choice is by no means one you’ve ever aspired to make your own; it sought you out, gripping you with fierce claws, the chokehold they captured you in only pryed apart by the gruesome death of the number one to your number two. You realise how suspicious this unexpected promotion makes you; you also know how much the darkness within you rejoices over the chance you’ve been given in complete disregard to the horrendous circumstances, as if your new colleagues weren’t wary enough of you as it is. The unwanted intruder forcefully entering the halls of the elite, second best attempting to mingle with the pick of the pack. Spiteful whispers echo through the changing rooms but only prompt you to keep your head up, hold your nose higher and show them what you’re made of — and that you easily could have gotten this role without a murder building a bridge for you.

VICTIM OR CULPRIT?

The name Lindsey Davies slips from every set of lips at the Queen Victoria Ballet as of recent, questioning eyes set on the twenty-two year old misfit. A stroke of tragedy has turned out to be your stroke of luck, securing you the highly desired role of Princess Aurora. Untainted confidence shines through the looking glass nonetheless, the countenance in the mirror staring back at you undeniably akin to that of Liz Gillies.

IN RELATION TO

JOSH FLANNIGAN: Your first encounter could have been described as the stuff 90′s teen rom coms are made of, a freshly pinned flyer seeking for a roommate bringing you together, two seemingly largely differing personalities soon to find more similarities in one another than one would ever think imaginable. An unlikely alliance quickly morphed into a close friendship, souls lay bare amidst tantalising swirls of smoke forming from lit up herbs. You know each other like you know yourself, better perhaps, a bond of trust stronger than a bond of blood. If you ever had to trust someone with your life, you’d pray for Josh to be an available choice. BARBIE DONNE: Conspicuous glares pave your way like stepping stones in the halls of the QVB, some of them thoroughly hostile, others mostly frightened for the last thing that offers comfort in times of uproar is foreignness. Barbara has been the only one to welcome you with a smile that reached her eyes right from the start, sure to be waiting up on you, holding the door, and engaging in small talk with you whenever no one else is willing to converse. Under different circumstances, you’re not sure you’d be this close for she is so very different from you, her softness failing to smooth your sharp edges, the only thing uniting you being your passion for dance and your highly acclaimed roles in this play but you’re glad to consider her a friend. DORIAN ARMSTRONG: In the drunken haze of another night post-failed audition, your taste for liquor spurred on by your need to forget, you found an unexpected listener in him, an intoxicated acquaintance set to last beyond the darkness. Not only could you pour your heart out to him but he’d offer you encouragement along with consoling that didn’t come across as half-hearted as those of a complete layman, a lack of expertise inevitably decreasing their words’ meaning. Just like you’ve celebrated your victory together, you’ll share your woes after a long work day with him, knowing he’ll always have an open ear for you, no matter how bitterly you ramble on.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Chances of Survival: Above average Applicant must be open to portraying mild drug use Faceclaim is slightly negotiable

Taking auditions!

[graceivers]

Review #83 - The Nearness of You

The Nearness of You Author: Iris Morland Genre: Contemporary Romance, Doctors, Single Parent Rating: ★★★★½ Recommendation: give it a shot; once was enough Summary: Sara Flannigan moves back to her hometown to start again after divorcing her ex and fighting for her previously sick son. Though the town has not been and continues not to be the kindest to her, she connects with the hometown golden boy, Harrison Thornton, and finds herself in a romance that not everyone approves of.

Female Lead: Sara was a nice character, a good character, a plain and simple character but one that you sympathized with and supported. Most of her turmoil occurred in the past, but Morland made sure to refer to it so readers would be on Sara’s side, which I was. She had just enough bad luck in her past to get you to feel for her, but smartly, Morland ensured that Sara was a fighter, someone that fought as best as she could in the face of adversity. That was probably the best part about Sara—that she remained strong throughout all the challenges she had to ensure. Regardless if it was her mother’s alcoholism and neglect during her childhood, putting up with her absentee ex-husband when they were married, or caring for her son during his illness, Sara battled and never complained and never gave up. There was a lot of selflessness there, which I thoroughly appreciated and enjoyed. And yes, Sara’s character was still hesitant and sometimes even wishy washy when it came to her relationship with Harrison, but I got where she was coming from, and there was a certain logic to her behavior, so I forgave her for that. Sara was a good character. Male Lead: Kind of like Sara, Harrison was a little plain, but I still enjoyed his character and presence. Hot, protective doctor who calls out his mother for her disgraceful behavior towards the woman he fell in love with? Yes, please. For me, the highlight of Harrison’s character was surely him standing up for Sara and thus standing up to his mother. He was so direct and resolute about his stance, and I loved that. And yeah, there were other people looking out for Sara like her sister and even her mother that was coming around, but for someone like Harrison to so blatantly take her side and stand up for her and protect her the way he did, that was amazing; it was something so simple and yet extremely effective in capturing my attention and support. So, yeah, Harrison was a good character too. Plot & Writing: The Nearness of You was a rather simple and straightforward book, and sometimes, that’s all you need. I rather enjoyed the simplicity of it all—that in a romance book, the author didn’t throw in all the clichés and create maximum drama but instead let the story flow in ways that avoided unnecessary complications. The best thing Morland did was in fact keep the plot direct rather than incorporating twists and turns that would otherwise convolute her goal of showcasing the bond between Sara and Harrison and the strength of their feelings for one another.

I loved that everything we saw from the two characters was exactly who they actually were. Sara was tentative but she wasn’t secretive. Harrison was honest and direct but he wasn’t arrogant or condescending. To me, it was so refreshing to read about characters that still had layers but weren’t messy enigmas. Seriously, these two characters carried the book—as they needed to considering the simplistic plot Morland went with. If the author hadn’t written Sara and Harrison as nicely as she did, the book could’ve been boring and unfinished on my part. Thankfully, that didn’t happen.

Was the relationship between Sara and Harrison a little quick? Maybe. I bought their attraction to one another, their chemistry, their growing feelings. I don’t know. I generally liked the pacing of the story as a whole, though I do remember at a couple of points where I thought things might have been moving fast for them to already consider love when they had only been on like two dates. Alas, stranger things have happened. I still bought into their relationship and rooted for it, so the timing wasn’t too much of a hindrance.

And I just wanted to comment on Harrison’s mother. Geez, what a character. Her logic made absolutely no sense to me. No sense! So, if she had gone through the shaming of coming from ‘the wrong side of the tracks’ while she was with her husband, why in the world did she not sympathize and help Sara and positively welcome her? And then you think, maybe she was just protecting Harrison because she didn’t want him to go through what she and her husband went through. But then you realize that what she went through was because her husband’s parents disowned him. Was she going to disown Harrison for being with Sara then? No, because the whole point of her being nasty to Sara was to keep Harrison in the family and not push him away. Only, Harrison ended up not speaking to his mom anymore anyway because of all the unfortunate things she said to Sara. So that begged the question, what was the mother’s goal in trying to break them apart? I didn’t get her at all. I am interested to see if/how she plays a role in the ensuing books in the series and how her relationship with Harrison and Sara changes if they show up more.

Favorite Part(s): Harrison punching that dude who was harassing Sara? Yikes. But also, the scene where Harrison took Sara out on the boat for the first time really stuck out to me. Because of sexytimes? Maybe. But I just thought that whole moment where it was just the two of them out there and were able to talk honestly and focus on each other was romantic and… beautiful. Final Thoughts: The Nearness of You was a sweet and simple romance. Like I said before, the two main characters really carried the story. I liked that Morland didn’t complicate them or the plot overall but instead allowed everything to come as naturally as it could. There was an overall maturity to the characters and the book, and that was absolutely the right way to go considering that they were in fact grown and serious adults. The Nearness of You was a satisfying read, and I would recommend.

[literal-fand0m-trash]

Psychic Wars Part 4. Bloodlust Part 1

Note:  I do not own any of the Supernatural characters or stories, but I do own Dakota Winchester. Please leave comments and let me know if you want to be tagged.

Summary: Sequel to Dakota Elizabeth Winchester

Part 1   Part 2   Part 3

The windows of the Impala were rolled down, letting the warm summer air in as the Winchester’s spend down a forgotten country highway in the newly rebuilt ‘67 Impala.

“Whoo! Listen to her purr! You ever heard something so sweet?” Dean smiled.

“Ya know, if you two want to get a room, let me know.” Sam sassed.

“Don’t listen to him Baby. He just doesn’t understand us.” Dean said caressing the wheel.

“Okay, now this is getting awkward.” Dakota said.

“You’re in a good mood.” Sam commented. Dakota had noticed as well, Dean’s mood had been all over the place since their dad died a little less than a month ago, but he seemed to be extra cheery today.

“Why shouldn’t I be?” Dean asked. “Got my car, got a case. Things are looking up.”

“Wow. You hear of a couple severed heads and a pile of dead cows, and you’re Mr. Sunshine.” Dakota joked and Dean laughed.

“How far to Red Lodge?” Dean asked Sam.

“About another 300 miles.” Sam answered and Dakota groaned. She put her headphones in and leaned back, enjoying the warm breeze as Dean revved the engine.

……….

“The murder investigation is ongoing, and that’s all I can share with the press at this time.” The sheriff said. Dakota, Sam, and Dean were sitting in the Sheriff’s office in Red lodge in their FBI outfits posing as reporters.

“Of course, we understand that, but just for the record, you found the first head last week, correct?” Dakota asked and the officer nodded she pretended to write the information down on the pad on paper she had when really she was doodling.

“And the other, a Christina Flannigan?” Sam asked.

“That was two days ago.” The officer answered. “Sorry, times up. We’re done here.”

“One last question. What about the cattle? The cows found dead, split open, drained, over a dozen cases.” Dean asked.

“What about them?” The Sheriff asked.

“You don’t think there’s a connection?’ Sam asked. Dakota saw that the officer looked at them like they were crazy.

“Sir, what he means is that decapitation and cattle death are often signs of a cult or satanic ritual and we simply want to inform are readers as best we can of what we are dealing with.” She interjected.

“Those cows aren’t being mutilated. You want to know how I know? Because there’s no such thing as cattle mutilation. Cow drops, leave it in the sun, within 48 hours the bloat will split it so clean it’s just about surgical. The bodily fluids fall into the ground, get soaked up, cause that’s what gravity does. But, hey, it could be satan. Now get out of my office.” He yelled.

Once they were out of the building Dakota turned to look at her brothers, “What a condescending dick!”

“I know, come one. Let’s get to the morgue.” Dean said.

They drove the short distance to the morgue and kept their fed outfits on, but threw lab coats on over them before walking into the building. There was, as usual, some college age student guarding the door to the exam room.

“Manners! Dr. Dorkin needs to see you in his office right away.” Dean said reading the guy’s name tag.

He stood up, but looked confused, “But, Dr. Dorkin is on vacation.”

“Well, he’s back and he’s pissed, and he’s screaming for you.” Dean assured him. Manners sprinted out of the room. Closing the door behind him.

“Hey, those satanist in Florida, they marked their victims didn’t they?” Dakota asked as she grabbed a pair of rubber gloves.

“Yeah, reverse pentacle on the forehead. So much F’ed up crap happens in Florida.” Dean commented.

Sam walked over to the wall of freezers and opened the door containing the first victim, with her decapitated head in a separate box by her feet.

“Alright. Open it.” Dean said.

“No way! You open it!” Dakota snapped back.

“Wuss.” He picked up the box and carried it to the exam table. He threw it opened and looked at it in disgust.

“Well, no pentagram.” Dakota commented looking at the woman’s face.

“Poor girl.” Sam said.

“Maybe we should look in her mouth, see if the wacko shoved anything down her throat. Like the moth in ‘Silence of the Lambs’.” Dean suggested.

“I’m pretty sure that only happens in movies.” Dakota said as Sam gently reached for the girl’s mouth and pushed it open.

“Kota, get me a bucket.” Sam said.

“Did you find something?” She asked in disbelief.

“No, I’m gonna puke.” Sam answered.

“Wait! I think I saw something!” Dean said. He lifted her lip up and they leaned in close.

“Is that a hole in her gums?” Dakota asked. She pushed on the area and a fang descended from the hole causing her to jump back.

“Retractable set of vampire fangs. You got to be kidding me.” Dean said.

“Well, this changes things.” Sam said.

“You think?” Dakota sassed.

……….

With no leads and no direction they made a plan to gather what information they could in a town this size, go to the bar and catch up on the local gossip. The bar was long, narrow, and falling apart. They walked up to the counter and sat on the stools.

“How’s it going?” Dakota asked the bartender.

“Living the dream. What can I get for you?” He said

“Three beers, please.” She responded.

“So, we’re looking for some people.” Sam started.

“Sure, it’s hard to be lonely.” The man said and Dakota saw him shoot a glance at her.

“Yeah...that’s not what I meant.” Sam said pulling some cash out.

The man looked at the $50 in Sam’s hand then moved down two seats to look at Dakota, “I don’t like taking money from people looking for help. What do you need, doll?”

“These people, they would have moved here six months ago, pretty rowdy, like to drink.” Dakota smiled.

“Really night owls. Sleep all day, party all night.” Dean snapped taking a sip of his beer. Dakota ignored the obvious annoyance rolling off of him, one day he would have to grow up and realise she was a twenty four year old woman who could do as she liked.

“Barker Farm got leased out a couple of months ago-real winners, they’ve been in here lot, drinkers, noisy. I had to 86 them once or twice.” The bartender said.

“Thanks.” Dean said standing up and walking for the door. Dakota reached into her pocket to pull out money for the beers.

“No charge, darlin’.” He smiled and she walked out the door.

They walked for a minute and right before they reached the car Sam said, “I think I have something stuck to my shoe.” Dakota looked up at him in shock, that was their codeword for when someone was following them. She looked around Sam at Dean who nodded and casually turned them down the nearest alleyway.

They split off ducking into the shadows as a dark figure walked down the alley, once the figure stopped they pounced on him, pinning him against the brick wall behind him. The man barely seemed fazed by three people jumping and pinning him.

“Smile. Show us those pearly whites.” Dean demanded.

“Oh, for the love of God. You want to stick that thing someplace else? I’m not a vampire. I heard you guys in there.” The man said.

“What do you know about vampires?” Sam questioned.

“How to kill them. Now seriously, bro, that knife’s making me itch.” He answered before pulling up his upper lip so they could see there were no fangs.

Dakota didn’t trust this man as far as she could throw him, whether it was her X-Man power, hunter's instinct, or just common sense everything in her was telling her this man was bad news.

Dean released the man and pulled the knife away from his throat, “Now, who the Hell are you?” He asked.

“Tell us your’s first.” Sam snapped.

“Let’s take a walk.” The man suggested. Sam and Dean followed on the man’s heels as he led them to his old, beat up car, but Dakota hung back.

“I’m Gordon Walker.” He introduced.

“Hey, Gordon, I’m Dean Winchester. These are my siblings Sam and Dakota.” Dean replied.

“Sam, Dean, and Dakota Winchester? I can’t believe this. You know, I met your old man once. Hell of a guy, great hunter. I heard he passed. I’m sorry.” Gordon said, the first sincere thing to come out of his mouth.

“Thank you.” Dakota said.

“It’s big shoes, but from what I hear you guys fill them. Great trackers, good in a tight spot.” Gordon said.

“You seem to know a lot about our family.” Dean commented.

“Word travels fast. You know how hunters talk.” Gordon said. Dakota looked between her brothers who both looked equally confused.

“No. We don’t.” Dakota confessed.

“Guess there’s a lot your dad never told you, huh?” He said.

“So, those two vampires, they were yours?” Sam asked.

“Yup. Been here two weeks.” He answered.

“Did you check out Barker’s Farm?” Dean asked.

“It’s a bust, a bunch of hippie freaks. Though they could kill you with that patchouli smell alone.” Gordon joked.

“Where’s the nest then?” Dakota asked furrowing her brow.

Gordon smirked, “I got this one covered. Look, don’t get me wrong. It’s a real pleasure meeting you, but I’ve been on this thing for over a year. I killed a fang back in Austin, tracked the nest all the way up here. I’ll finish it.”

“Okay.” Dakota agreed at the same time Dean said, “We could help.”

“Thanks, but I’m kind of a go-it-alone type guy.” Gordon said.

“Oh come on. I’ve been itching for a hunter.” Dean said and Dakota tried to figure out what he was trying to accomplish.

“Sorry. But, I hear there’s a chupacabra two states over. Go ahead and knock yourselves out.” Gordon informed them.

“We will. Nice meeting you.” Dakota said grabbing Dean’s jacket and pulling as Gordon got in his car and drove away.

“What the Hell was that?” He snapped at her.

“He is bad news. He’s got my empath crap going all over the place and my skin crawls when I look at him.” Dakota confessed.

Dean had insisted that they tail Gordon for the night much to Dakota’s dismay. It turns out he had the right idea, they found Gordon in a warehouse by the river being attacked by a vampire. The vamp had him pinned to a conveyor belt that was about to go through a saw. Like a well oiled machine, Dean grabbed Gordon by the legs and pulled him off of the conveyor belt while Sam punched the vampire in the face sending him flying towards Dakota, who unsheathed her machete and behead the vampire, it’s blood spurting on her face, destroying the threat within moments.

She looked over her shoulder at Gordon, “You’re welcome.”

“So...I guess I owe you guys a drink?” He said.

……….

All four of them were sitting in one on the back tables of the bar they had been in earlier and Gordon kept ordering them rounds and shots.

He held up his shot glass to them, “Another one bites the dust.”

“That’s right.” Dean said toasting him.

“Dean, you gave that big ass fang one Hell of a haircut, my friend. That was beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.” Gordon laughed and Dakota didn’t bother to correct him that she had been the one to gank the vampire.

“You alright, Sammy?” Dean asked looking over at them.

“Yeah, we’re fine.” Sam said nodding to Dakota.

“Well lighten up, Sammy.” Gordon said and Dakota glared at him.

“They’re the only ones who get to call me that.” Sam snapped pointing at his siblings.

“Okay. No offence meant. Just celebrating a little. Job well done.” Gordon said throwing his hands up in defense.

“Right. Well, decapitations aren’t my idea of a good time, I guess.” Dakota said taking a sip of her beer.

“Oh, come one, it’s not like it was human. You got to have a little more fun with your job.” Gordon said.

Dean smiled, “See, that’s what I’ve been trying to tell them. You two could learn something from this guy.”

“Yeah, I bet we could.” Sam sassed. “Look, I’m not gonna bring you guys down. I’m just going to head back to the motel. Kota, want to join me?”

“Yes. please.” She said quickly standing up and grabbing her jacket, “We’ll get a cab, you can drive Baby back.”

“No. I’m going to keep drinking. I shouldn’t drive.” He said and he threw Dakota the keyds, “Remind me to beat the buzzkill out of you later, alright?”

They drove back to the motel room in silence and Dakota slammed the door as she walked into the room.

“I hate him! He’s bad news! We should go back and drag Dean’s ass back here with us!” She exclaimed as she started passing the room.

“He won’t listen to us. He’s found another hunter he can look up to.” Dean said.

“Well his Daddy Issues are going to get him killed!” She yelled.

“You don’t actually know that he’s anything more than a creep.” Sam pointed out.

“So I doubt your visions? No. So why are you doubting my empathy?” She pouted sitting down on the bed and crossing her arms. She grabbed her phone out of her back pocket.

“What are you doing?” Sam asked as Dakota hit the call button and pressed the phone to her ear and Sam came and sat next to her.

“Harvelle’s Roadhouse.” Ellen answered.

“Hey Aunt Ellen. It’s Dakota.” She said.

“Hey sweetheart. It’s good to hear from you. You and the boys are okay, aren’t you?” Ellen asked.

“I don’t know. I’ve got a question for you. Have you ever come across a hunter named Gordon Walker?” Dakota asked.

“Yeah, I know Gordon. He’s a real good hunter. Why you asking, sweetie?” Ellen asked.

“We ran into him on a job and we’re kind of working with him I guess.” Dakota answered.

“Don’t do that, Dakota.”  Ellen harshly whispered down the line.

“Why not? I thought you said he was a good hunter?” Dakota asked.

“Yeah, and Hannibal Lecter’s a good psychiatrist. He’s dangerous to everyone and everything around him. If he’s working on a job, you let him handle it and you move on.” Ellen warned.

“Ellen…” She started.

“No, Dakota Elizabeth...you just listen to what I’m telling you, okay?” Ellen asked.

“Yes ma’am.” Dakota answered.

“Good. You call me if there is any trouble and you come here if you need to, okay?” Ellen said.

“Yea. I love you, Aunt Ellen.” Dakota said.

“I love you too, sweetie.” Ellen said hanging up the phone. Dakota looked over at Sam who had a curious expression on his face.

“We’ve got a problem.” She said.

Tags:

@one-giggling-unic0rn @skeletoresinthebasement

[auburnfamilynews]

Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Oh bench, where art thou?

Usually I don’t use a picture of an opposing player as the header for an Auburn win. But when you score 40 points, you get that distinction.

Down their second leading scorer and getting zero points from their third man, Arkansas leaned heavily on the back of Mason Jones, who had probably the best scoring night I have ever seen.

To counter that, though, Auburn went back to the well that helped them beat Kentucky. That would be Samir Doughty, who has put his mid-January slump in the rear-view mirror over the last four games.

Four Factors

eFG%: Auburn and Arkansas shot about even yesterday, but the paths to get there were drastically different. Led by efficient nights from Doughty, Okoro, and McLemore, Auburn shot over 20% better from two than Arkansas. Meanwhile, Mason Jones and Desi Sills combined to hit 10 threes for an Arkansas team that has struggled from range all season. In the end, no advantage here for either team.

FTA/FGA: Auburn, as usual, had a good game getting to the line. Instead of it being one player, though, it was everyone contributing. J’Von McCormick led the team with 9 FTA, but everyone that played except for Devan Cambridge attempted at least one. Arkansas got to the line at a decent clip, but Auburn is now #2 in the country at getting free throws. Advantage Auburn.

TO Rate: Just like everyone got to the line for Auburn, everyone turned the ball over, too. Sans Jamal Johnson, every player had a turnover, led by Austin Wiley’s 4 in 11 minutes. Credit to Arkansas, though, these were forced by their defense. We knew going in that this is how they were going to attack, and 14 of Auburn’s 18 turnovers were the result of steals by Arkansas. It was a team effort for the Razorbacks, with everyone except for Ethan Henderson (who played 4 min) tallied one. Credit where credit is due. Advantage Arkansas.

ORB%: This was the difference maker for Auburn. Despite Wiley only seeing the court for 11 minutes due to foul and turnover trouble, Auburn was still +7 on the offensive boards. I was worried about this without the big man, but Auburn’s athleticism from its forwards (McLemore, Okoro, and Purifoy had 26 boards combined) gave Auburn a ton of extra possessions that they lost due to turnovers. Advantage Auburn.

Individual Numbers

MVP - Samir Doughty: 23 pts/3 reb/2 ast, 8-13 FG, 4-4 FT

As mentioned earlier, Samir is on a tear right now, averaging 20.3 ppg over his last four. I think it’s become pretty obvious this team needs him to play well to have a good night, but the good thing is he can do different things to different defenses. Play him in man? He’ll find a way to get to the basket and maybe draw a foul while he’s at it. Play zone to keep him away from the basket? He can hit open threes all day. Press him in the backcourt? He’ll turn into a point guard and dish it to the open man. If he’s feeling it, defenses just have to pick the way in which he’ll beat them.

It’s not good when only five guys have positive offensive value nights. Between Jamal Johnson, Allen Flannigan, and Devan Cambridge, they tallied 5 points on 1-8 shooting, 2 rebounds, 3 turnovers, and 5 fouls in 30 minutes. This has been a concerning trend in the last few weeks, as besides the 26 point game Cambridge had against South Carolina, the trio hasn’t contributed more than 5 combined points since the Alabama game. As good as Auburn’s top six have been this season, the bench behind them has struggled.

Anfernee McLemore might be making a case for himself to get an NBA look at this rate. The senior has shown the ability to do a little bit of everything this year, and last night was no different. Against the best three point defense in the country, Mac decided to find work inside, going 4-5 from two and picking up 10 rebounds. He now leads the team in eFG%, and his 2P% is top 15 in the country at 69.6%.

As dominant as Austin Wiley was against Kentucky, the active hands of the Arkansas front court gave him fits last night. With his 73% turnover rate, he was effectively neutralized from the game, so much so that he didn’t even get a field goal attempt off. When Anfernee McLemore fouled out in overtime, it wasn’t Wiley who went back in, it was Allen Flannigan. There’s a chance #50 was sick for this game, as Bruce mentioned a bug was going around the team, but it’s possible Arkansas just had the perfect game plan for him.

For more digging, here’s the link to the full box score: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15sjDo11lcbOhhGmPT72G7JgqKsLMpWWyd9yCLQ7Xa-U/edit?usp=sharing

from College and Magnolia - All Posts https://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2020/2/5/21124076/advanced-box-score-breakdown-auburn-79-arkansas-76-basketball-overtime-tigers-razorbacks

[spiderfan22]

DAY THREE HUNDRED AND TEN - 3/19/18

“THE TALKBACK” by DJS

Another page and a half from the one-act. You do what you can do with the time you have.

Characters

Mark Storey, an actor in his late twenties

Sarah Klein, an actress in her forties

Constance Romero, a costume designer in her sixties

 Setting

The stage of a theater, be it a blackbox, regional theater or Broadway.

An audience talkback after a performance of the play-within-the-play “The Final Sitting”:

  We’re watching the closing moments of the play-within-the-play. From backstage. Through a door leading onto the set.

The scene is between a young Renaissance painter (played by the actor Mark Storey) and his subject, a housemaid (portrayed by the actress Sarah Klein).

She is on her way out the door. He blocks her exit.

Note: there is something affected about Sarah’s performance here, a rawness that is both deeply moving and not entirely within her control. She has trouble getting out the words.

MARK            (on the verge of tears) Ingrid, please. (No response.) Please!!

SARAH          (choked) No.

MARK                  Then I will burn this painting.

She begins to protest and they struggle.

I will, every vestige of it—of you! Till it is nothing but ashes! Or better, drive a knife through the canvas, through your heart for abandoning me now!!

SARAH                This is foolishness—

MARK                  No—

SARAH                Folly! This is folly! The talk of a child!

MARK                  (roaring) You dare call me a child?!!

He grasps her tighter. She breaks down in tears.

SARAH                Oh God, how do you of all people not see?! You who can capture the truth of a moment in a few simple brushstrokes—with your gifts—that even after everything you’ve subjected me to—the, the the the insults, the, the degradation—

MARK                  I??!!

SARAH                Yes, you!! You!! (A deep sigh.) That for all your faults, your many, many faults, and terrible sins, unforgiveable… for me to somehow still respect your talent? Do you know how difficult that is—to, to reconcile in my mind? The artist… And the man.

MARK                  (quietly) I am both, am I not?

Long pause.

SARAH                You are. Of course you are. (Pause.) And a boy no longer.

He releases his grip on her. She turns to go.

MARK                  Please… Ingrid… to feel your lips on my cheek one more time…

She pauses.

SARAH                One last time.

And Sarah kisses Mark softly on the cheek, as she would a child.

The effort should be like moving a mountain for her.

Then she exits, closing the door behind her.

She is very still in the darkness backstage. We can just make out her outline. She has trouble catching her breath.

On the other side of the door we hear Mark weeping loud actor-y tears.

Then the lights go out completely and the play-within-the-play is over.

A burst of applause (recorded).

 The scene changes and we are out front now.

It’s after the show.

Three chairs have been set up downstage, with a small table between two of the chairs with a carafe of water and two glasses.

Constance Romero (wearing a body mic) enters from the wings to some applause. The audaciousness of her outfit choice should surprise and delight us.

She addresses the audience from the foot of the stage.

CONSTANCE      Thank you. Good evening. It’s nice of so many of you to stick around after the show with us. I’m sure it’s because you’ve been so tremendously moved, not to mention stimulated by this amazing production as we all have that you’re just dying to know more.

                             My name is Constance Romero. And in case you missed it in your program there—the type is rather small—I designed the costumes for the production. Which, I kid, but was truly my honor to join this remarkable team of theater artists who brought this story to life, that begins at the very top with a great director—who just so happens to be the artistic director of this theater, Mr Dylan Graham, and who, fortune would have it, couldn’t be here tonight because he’s off living the high life in New York—yes, he’s left us all behind—directing a revival of The Cherry Orchard off-Broadway—which is why he couldn’t be here in person himself.

                             Actually, it was fairly unceremonious how I came to be chosen to moderate this Q and A, really simple convenience. I live just down the block, you see, so they knew they had a sure bet on that end. (A small, nervous laugh.) And while this isn’t my usual “thing”, conducting interviews that is, I will try my damndest for you all to ask the penetrating questions I’m sure we’ve all had stirred up. Because the play, this play The Final Sitting, it does spark a good number of very intriguing, you know—and since you’ve all just seen it I’m not giving anything away—debates it might cause over the actions of the characters, etcetera.

                             I also must confess to stalling for time a little here. Our actors will be out any minute. Or so I’m told! But, you know, at the same time, it’s a show, right? There’s a certain period of I don’t know what you’d call it—decompression?—and especially for a show like this, so intense that you—that we’re asking them now to hurry that process along. But they’re very eager—I spoke with them both briefly right after coming offstage—to see you all, really see you, with the houselights up, and have a chance to answer any questions that may still be lingering. So we will try to reserve some time for those questions from you at the end. We just ask that any questions do come in the form of a question and not a statement. Good? Thank you? Yes. Makes it easier all around. (She glances towards the wings for confirmation on this.) Oh, yes? Well it seems that’s my cue. (Clears throat.) So ladies and gentlemen, please now will you join me in welcoming back to the stage with a warm round of applause, the stars of this production— Mark Storey and Sarah Klein!

She joins the audience in a round of applause.

Mark enters from the wings, followed a good moment later by Sarah.

They’re both wearing comfortable semi-casual attire and have that fresh, still slightly damp look people have when they’ve just gotten out of the shower and had to dress quickly. They wear body-mics as well.

Mark smiles in a faux modest way while nodding appreciatively to the audience in a gesture of humble gratitude for the warm reception.

Sarah’s smile is weaker, clearly forced, though she’s honestly trying, and her eye contact with the audience isn’t quite what it should be given the situation.

They take their seats, Mark in the middle nearest Constance.

CONSTANCE            (as the applause fades) Welcome. To both of you.

MARK            Well it’s pretty great to be here, isn’t it?

CONSTANCE      I would say—I would say after a show like tonight’s, which seemed just electric. And maybe that’s as good a place to start as any—what is that feeling when you know you’ve sufficiently “upped the ante” let’s call it.  

MARK                  Oh yeah, definitely, definitely. I mean I don’t want to speak for Sarah, but it really felt, you know, like we were just going on all cylinders, you know? Firing— (More to the audience.) Sorry, I get a little (Makes an “I’m crazy” gesture.) just, you know, after a show. Still all keyed up and stuff—

CONSTANCE      I’m sure, right, coming down—

MARK                  Right, yeah. Don’t even know if I’m saying actual words.

He is joking; something Mark has a natural talent for. It’s part of his charm.

CONSTANCE      And Sarah, how about you?

SARAH                Uhh. The same. Yeah.

MARK                  (to Sarah) It’s palpable isn’t it? (Back to Constance.) (Thinks.) Alchemy! And you’re lost in it, in the moment! So much so you don’t even know how good it was, you were, until after, and then it’s just like—it’s more like a dream you had at that point. I’m serious, everyone’s patting you on the back like “You were so amazing tonight, the places you went to, yah-yah” and the whole time you’re thinking I don’t even know what happened out there, but I guess thanks for the compliment anyway?? Yeah, it’s weird, you never know what to say. So just say thank you, I guess, try to be gracious?? I don’t know, I’m new to all this, I would ask Sarah. Maybe she has a better perspective, approach.

SARAH                (having drifted off) What?

MARK                  You know, handling praise and everything? I was just saying you might have a better system, how to react to that, given your years of experience. And being so much more talented I think we can all agree?

He leads the audience in applause for Sarah, who smiles uncomfortably.

                             Seriously, c’mon, give it up for this woman. Like if you ever want to see just a crazy scene of people making absolute fools of themselves—there’s a bar, Flannigan’s, we all go to after the show—and the line—the line-up of folks just waiting to, like, shake this woman’s hand, to offer up their congratulations. It’s like that scene in—what’s the movie? With the two guys, they have like a cable access show—I think it started on Saturday Night Live—why can’t I think of it?  

SARAH                (small) Wayne’s World.

MARK                  Wayne’s World, right, yes! Where they bow down, the guys—“We’re not worthy! We’re not worthy!” All in praise to Sarah here.

Constance has been eating all this up.

                             God, that takes me back. We used to watch that movie all the time on HBO. When I was in drama school—it would like, always be on for some reason. Mike Myers, right?

CONSTANCE      I think, I’m not sure. And we should mention that when you say Drama School, you of course mean Julliard.

MARK                  Guilty. Now you’ve done your research haven’t you?

CONSTANCE      Some light prep, that’s all. Everything’s on these notecards here, I’d be lost without them. So school was Julliard for you—and for you, Sarah? I have down you went to UCLA?

SARAH                Undergrad, right.

CONSTANCE      Was that a conscious decision then—moving to California I mean? Had you originally wanted to go into movies or TV?

SARAH                Well I had… like probably for a lot of people whose first experience was, I had started acting in high school, where I first really—

MARK                  Exactly. And weren’t those just the worst? I mean looking back? (To Sarah.) What did you guys do? Like, what monstrosity did your teacher force you to go up there and put on? Because for us it was Our Town. Like I still can’t stand that play.

SARAH                I don’t know—

MARK                  It was Our Town. And then we did a Shakespeare. The Comedy of Errors—ugh.

CONSTANCE      And yet you persisted somehow.

MARK                  Well, me, I’m an attention whore. I just like being stared at under pretty lights, in fancy costumes. Thanks for that, by the way, because—and this is in all honesty, Constance—this has gotta be my favorite costume I’ve ever worn. Bar none—

CONSTANCE      Oh. Well thank you—

MARK                  I mean I can’t speak for Sarah, I’m not the one in a corset, but—

SARAH                (feeling the need to praise Constance as well) Oh. Yes—

MARK                  And that’s so important for a role isn’t it—to actually inhabiting another person, if you’re gonna have any chance—which I think is what we ultimately as actors try to do, try to give—the end goal of the whole process I mean, to become someone else by whatever means at your disposal—fully. And, what I was saying, it’s really the final piece, the clothes. They make the man as they say.

CONSTANCE      Well, while I certainly appreciate the compliment, I’m rather in the same boat as you, I’m not the best at taking them.

MARK                  Who is? Politicians, maybe. I guess.

CONSTANCE      So getting back to you, Sarah—

MARK                  Right, apologies—running this whole thing aren’t I? When I should just shut up—let the lady speak.

CONSTANCE      Sarah, college for you was UCLA, southern California, coming out from the Midwest, Ohio I believe? (Sarah nods.) So did you originally have the impulse to try for TV, the movies, or—?

SARAH                No, that—I never considered that, no.

MARK                  Too smart.

CONSTANCE      And you followed that up—you didn’t go to grad school correct?—but followed that up with stints at some of the most prestigious regional theaters around the country. Berkeley Repertory and A.C.T. in San Francisco, Arena Stage in Washington DC, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival—

SARAH                I did, yes—

CONSTANCE      Where you played parts as diverse as Catherine in A View From a Bridge, to Caliban in an acclaimed all-female production of The Tempest. Now I have to say, as a big fan of that show in particular, I would have loved to see that.

MARK                  You and me both.

SARAH                Thank you. Thanks, yeah—

MARK                  Yeah and in case anyone ever wonders, this is what my jealous face looks like. Yeah it’s Sarah’s resume I think of, like a little scroll in my head, anytime I have to emote that onstage. (Turning on Sarah.) God you’re infuriating, woman!!

Faux mad, he makes to throttle Sarah but doesn’t actually lay hands on her.

Laughter from all but Sarah, who has a pinched smile, caught.

 To be continued…