#(i say ‘they deserve love’ as if i haven’t already said that about every single other character of toa)

[foreverisntenough]

‘Act II’

Summary: Attraction is like a gravitational pull that is undefinable and unavoidable. Unbeknownst to you, Jude had been keeping an eye on you since he caught a glimpse on his best friend’s girlfriend’s Instagram but he’s been loving his single life. You always were independent and know how to swim on your own but maybe you have been just treading water. Could the tides change on a holiday in Greece when you finally meet? It might get a little rocky but maybe you could be his paradise.

Index

Warnings: This series is 18+ MDNI

Note: Thank you for reading! Please be sure to like, comment, or message me what you think of the series! ‘Act II’ is interconnected to the 'You’re Mine' and 'Ours' Series but can read it independently.

Chapter 20 - 'Be Yours ' | ‘Act II’

word count - 10.3 k

The morning light filtered through the windows, casting a soft glow over the room as you stood with Whitney, watching her transform into a bride. The stylist worked meticulously, zipping up her intricate gown, the soft rustle of beading filling the quiet air. You couldn’t help but feel a surge of emotion well up inside you. Whitney had been through so much, and now here she was—radiant, about to step into a new chapter of her life, one that she deserved more than anyone. Tears prickled your eyes as you took it all in. She caught you wiping at your eyes, and with a soft laugh, shook her head.

“Don’t you dare start crying already. We haven’t even gotten to the ceremony yet!” But the laughter faded as Teddy, in her tiny dress, tugged at Whitney’s gown, her face lighting up.

 “Mama is princess!” She exclaimed.  Whitney bent down, pulling Teddy into her arms for a tight hug, kissing her forehead. The tenderness of the moment only made your emotions stronger. You had seen Whitney through every phase of her life—the highs, the lows, the struggles, and the triumphs. And now, watching her stand there in her wedding dress, about to marry the love of her life, you were overwhelmed with pride and joy for her. Whitney straightened, smoothing her dress as she turned to you with a glint in her eyes. 

“What about you?” she asked, a teasing smile creeping across her face. “Do you think you’ll be next?” She raised her brow. You let out a surprised giggle, quickly wrapping your arms around her in a tight hug. The weight of her question wasn’t lost on you, but in that moment, it was more about the joy you felt for her. 

“Well,” you said, pulling back just enough to meet her gaze, “I wouldn’t exactly say no.” Whitney grinned, eyes sparkling with a mix of mischief and affection.

“I knew it,” she said playfully, leaning in for another hug, this time a little tighter. “You would say yes so goddamn fast. You’d be like ‘ah oui Judey I love you… wah wah wah.” She giggled mocking you, amplifying the dramatics and thickening your accent that wasn’t there.  The moment felt surreal—being there with her on her wedding day, the two of you sharing this quiet, intimate exchange before the whirlwind of the ceremony you were set to take a helicopter out to from Manhattan to Montauk soon. You were both adults now, but it felt like no time had passed since you were younger, whispering about your dream weddings late into the night. And now, Whitney was living hers.

“Mama up now.” Teddy, eager for more attention, ran back over, clinging to her mother’s leg, her giggles filling the room. “Pleabs!” Whitney reached down to pick her up, settling her on her hip. 

“What do you think, my beautiful girl?” Whitney asked, bouncing her lightly. “You think Auntie Y/N should marry Judey?” She asked sweetly. Teddy nodded enthusiastically, her curls bouncing as she looked at you with wide eyes. 

“Yeah huh! Like mama and dada!” Teddy squealed. You laughed, giving her little nose a playful tap.

 “Maybe…. Maybe one day, Ted. Maybe one day. Judey would have to ask me.” You cooed looking at Whitney to remind her just that.  Whitney looked at you, her expression softening again. It took all Teddy's might not to ask for Jude right then and there but daddy had told her it was a big secret just for him, Judey, and her. So she remained hush.

“You’ll have this too, I know it. And when it happens, I’ll be right there with you, every step of the way.” She whispered. Her words touched something deep within you. You smiled, swallowing down the lump of emotion in your throat, and nodded. 

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” The morning buzzed around you as everyone finished getting ready, but that moment between the two of you—between old friends, sisters in spirit—was one you’d hold onto forever. Watching her step into her future felt like watching a piece of your own heart move forward too, and you knew that no matter what, you’d both be there for each other, for every step of the journey ahead.

The waves lapped gently against the Montauk shoreline, the soft murmur of the ocean providing a serene backdrop as you watched Trent and Whitney exchange their vows. The scene was almost too perfect— the horizon stretched endlessly, the sun low and golden in the sky, casting a warm glow over the gathering. The sound of their voices, filled with love and promise, drifted through the air, each word sealing their future together. It was all perfect frankly just as perfect as they were. You sat there beside Jude, his presence grounding you in the moment. But as you looked at Trent, standing there so sure, so devoted, something stirred inside you. It wasn’t just about the beauty of the wedding or the romance of it all; it was about the feeling that had been slowly bubbling up inside you for some time now. The certainty that you and Jude were more than just together. You were meant for each other. Without thinking, you turned your head slightly toward him, and before you could stop yourself, the words slipped out, quiet but sure. 

“Jude…” He looked over at you, his brow furrowing slightly in concern. 

“You okay?” he whispered back, his hand giving yours a reassuring squeeze. Your heart pounded, your fingers trembling slightly in his. You leaned in closer, your voice so soft it was barely audible over the sound of the waves. 

“I want to be yours.” Jude’s gaze softened immediately, his lips parting in surprise before he quickly recovered. He leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to your temple. 

“You are,” he whispered, his voice filled with affection, as if it was the most obvious truth in the world. “You’ve always been mine." A shiver ran down your spine, not from the breeze that carried the scent of the sea, but from the weight of his words. The salt air mixed with the warmth of Jude’s cologne, the earthy, musky scent wrapping around you like a comforting embrace. It was intoxicating—Jude’s presence, the summer air, the emotion of the moment—it all swirled together, making your head spin in the most delicious way. You closed your eyes for a brief moment, leaning into him as his arm slipped around your waist, pulling you closer. His hand sliding crossed your exposed back in your dress. You could feel the steady beat of his heart beneath his chest, the rhythmic rise and fall of his breathing as he held you there, close to him, as if you were the most precious thing in the world. The sound of Trent and Whitney’s vows carried on in the background, but all you could focus on was Jude—the way his touch seemed to soothe every nerve, the way his whispered words anchored you in place. You were his, and he was yours. And in that moment, beneath the open sky, with the sea stretching endlessly before you, it felt like the world had aligned just for the two of you. You opened your eyes, turning to look at him, catching the soft curve of his smile as he gazed out at the ceremony. His fingers gently traced circles on your back, his touch as calming as the waves. You rested your head against his shoulder, feeling the strength of his arm around you, and for the first time in a long time, everything felt perfect. You were his, and there was nowhere else you wanted to be.

And so later into the evening as you stood by Jude, watching Trent and Whitney share their first dance as a married couple, the ambiance was filled with love and joy. The soft melodies floated through the air, and the sight of the newlyweds lost in their own world was enough to make anyone’s heart swell. You expected Jude to lean in and crack a joke about Trent’s dance moves, but instead, he turned to you, his expression serious yet tender.

“What do you think, hmm?” he asked, his gaze fixed on the couple, but his focus was undeniably on you. Jude was a little drunk at this point and he couldn’t bite his tongue. He spent all last night thinking about how he would want to propose and now it felt like he couldn’t shut up about it indirectly. You couldn’t help but giggle at his sudden change in tone. 

“Don’t be ridiculous,” you replied, trying to keep the mood light. But your heart raced at the implication of his question. Was he genuinely curious about your thoughts on the wedding or was he hinting at something more personal?

“C’mon now,” he urged, his voice low as he leaned a little closer. “It sounds good, doesn’t it? Y/N Bellingham—I can already hear it. Be like my missus,” he said, a playful grin creeping onto his face, but there was a glimmer of something more serious behind it. You felt your cheeks flush at his words. A teasing, light-hearted joke or a hint at a future? You weren’t sure, but either way, the mere thought sent butterflies fluttering in your stomach. 

“You’d just have to ask,” you whispered cheekily as a reminder to him, trying to maintain your composure, but inside, your mind was racing with possibilities. Unbeknownst to you, just the night before, Jude had been sharing his thoughts with Teddy. The two of them sharing a conspiratorial whisper back in Manhattan. But back in the present, Jude’s gaze was steady, searching yours for any sign of what you might be thinking. As you turned your attention back to Trent and Whitney, your heart fluttered at the thought of possibly sharing a similar moment with Jude one day. You imagined your own first dance, and the thought of being his forever made you smile.

“What do you think they’re talking about?” Jude asked, his voice breaking through your thoughts as he nodded towards the couple.

“Probably how lucky they are,” you mused, taking a moment to catch your breath. “I mean, look at them. They’re so happy. You can’t buy those smiles.” You cooed gently. 

“Trent did.” Jude cheekily quipped. You bit back a giggle and glared at him for ruining your soft moment. Jude shrugged an apology but then nodded, a small smile on his lips.

 “Yeah, they do though, angel. And you know what?” He paused, his eyes locking onto yours, and you could see the sincerity there. “I want that. I want that with you, Y/N. I want us to be that happy.” Your heart skipped a beat at his admission, and you felt warmth spreading through you.

“Yeah, me too, Jude. That sounds nice. More than anything,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper, but filled with all the emotions you had yet to voice fully. He smiled, leaning down to press a soft kiss against your forehead. 

“Then let’s make sure we get there, yeah? One dance at a time.” As the music swelled around you, you felt the magic of the moment sink in, knowing that whatever came next, you would face it together. And with that thought, you took a step closer to Jude, ready to create your own memories, one dance at a time.

You and Jude were set with a task that evening sneaking into Trent and Whitney’s room, setting it up for their wedding night. The atmosphere was intimate but simple—just a few candles, creating a soft glow in the dim lighting. It wasn’t over-the-top, but it was romantic enough to make it special for them. Whitney would hate anything more but anything less would feel too mundane And so, as you placed the final candle on the nightstand, Jude came up behind you, slipping his arms around your waist. 

“Think we should leave them some condoms?” His chin rested on your shoulder as he teasingly asked you with a smirk.

“Oh yeah. Do you even have any?” You turned around with a mock-serious expression. 

“Nah, forgot.” Jude laughed, shaking his head. You smiled knowingly. 

“I don’t think they’re planning on using any tonight or ever… or have ever.” You giggled. Jude raised an eyebrow, a with a mischievous glint in his eye.

“More Teddysss!” He sang as he playfully swayed with you in his arms, his voice light and teasing. You laughed, shaking your head at his silliness, but then he asked, a bit more seriously, “Do you want babies?” The playful tone faded, and something deeper settled between the two of you. He hadn’t meant it to be so heavy, but the question lingered in the air, the implications hitting you harder than you expected. Your laughter quieted as the thought of it truly sank in. Babies. A future with him. The idea filled your chest with warmth, but also a strange kind of nervousness, like you were standing on the edge of something bigger than the both of you. Jude didn’t seem to notice at first, still smiling, but when you didn’t respond right away, he looked at you more closely. His arms stayed wrapped around you, but his expression softened, sensing the change in your mood. “Hey,” he said quietly, turning you gently to face him, his hands slipping down to hold yours. “I didn’t mean to—” You shook your head, interrupting him. 

“No, it’s okay,” you reassured him, but your voice was quieter now, more thoughtful. “I just… I don’t know, I never really thought about it like that. With anyone before.” Jude’s gaze softened even more. He tilted his head, brushing a strand of hair from your face. 

“But you’ve thought about it with me?” Your eyes met his, and suddenly everything felt very real. There was something about the way he was looking at you—like he could see a future, a life where the two of you built something together the way Trent had spoken about  it all last night. And the idea didn’t scare you as much as it once might have.

“I have,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. Jude smiled, pulling you closer. He kissed the top of your head, his lips lingering there for a moment as he held you tightly against him.

 “I like the sound of that,” he murmured into your hair, his words sending a wave of warmth through you. The room was quiet now, just the flicker of candlelight casting soft shadows on the walls. Jude didn’t push any further, sensing that the conversation had already gone deeper than either of you had anticipated. But there was a comfort in it, in knowing that the future—whatever it held—was something the two of you could talk about. Something you could figure out together. For now, though, it was just the two of you, standing in the quiet, wrapped up in each other, the future a distant but not unwelcome thought.

After all the festivities, the wedding, and the whirlwind of emotions, it felt surreal to be lying next to Jude in bed finally. Everything had been so full of life and celebration, and now the silence between you both felt thick, like the weight of unspoken thoughts was pressing down on you. You were cuddled up close to him, your head resting on his chest, but your minds were racing in different directions. His fingers absentmindedly stroked your arm, but his thoughts were far away—wrapped up in the future. The weight of the past few days, the conversations about marriage and children, after having gotten tattoos for each other, lingered in the back of both your minds. Jude was still thinking about Teddy’s innocent question at the wedding, her excitement when he told her he was going to ask you. The promise he made to her felt more real than ever. He had always known he wanted you, but now that the idea of asking you had been planted, he couldn’t stop wondering how he would do it. Would it be the perfect moment? Would he catch you by surprise? What if you said no, or what if you weren’t ready? The uncertainty gnawed at him, though deep down, he knew your connection was solid. He turned his head slightly, looking at you as you lay peacefully, your breathing steady but your mind clearly not at ease. He wondered if you were thinking the same things. What did you want? Would you want to marry him? What kind of life did you imagine? His thoughts swirled further—where would you live? In Madrid, Paris so you’d be mildly closer, or maybe you’d want to stay here forever? The questions stacked up like bricks, building a future that seemed close yet still distant. You, too, were feeling the weight of those same thoughts. Marriage, children—it had all come up so fast, and suddenly the future seemed like it was looming in front of you, asking you to make decisions you hadn’t fully prepared for. You loved Jude, there was no doubt about that. But the enormity of what those next steps would mean, how they would shift the dynamic of your life together, was beginning to settle into your bones. The quiet stretched on, neither of you daring to break it, as if saying something would make everything too real, too soon. But there was also a comfort in being wrapped up in each other like this, knowing that you didn’t have to rush anything. The love you shared was strong enough to hold these conversations, these uncertainties.

“Angel… You okay?” After a while, Jude broke the silence, his voice soft and low. You nodded against his chest, squeezing him a little tighter.

 “Yeah… just thinking.” You cooed.

“Me too,” he admitted, his fingers still gently tracing patterns on your arm. A pause.  “About… everything?”  

“Yeah. It’s just… a lot, isn’t it?” You hummed.

“It is,” he agreed. “But… I don’t know. I’m not scared of it.” His words settled over you like a warm blanket, comforting in their simplicity. You tilted your head to look up at him, your eyes meeting in the dim light of the room. There was a kind of clarity in his gaze, an assurance that you both would figure this out—whatever it was. “I love you,” he whispered, his voice barely above a breath.

“I love you more,” you replied, the weight of everything suddenly feeling a little lighter. You both let the silence take over again, your minds still buzzing but a little less frantic, knowing that whatever came next, you would face it together.

You had a few days planned in New York after the wedding, some of which you had decided to stay out in Montauk for. It was your first full morning out there after the wedding, and you woke up early with the sound of the waves gently crashing in the distance. The sun peeked through the curtains of Whitney and Winnie’s family’s summer home you were all staying in, casting a warm, golden glow across the room. You were excited to get out to the beach, but Jude was still half-asleep, his arm draped lazily across your waist, pulling you closer into him. He muttered something under his breath and nuzzled his face into your neck, his voice still heavy with sleep.

“Don’t wanna get up,” he grumbled, tightening his grip as you tried to wiggle out of bed. You giggled softly, giving him a playful pout.

 “But it’s so nice out! Come on, let’s go to the beach, baby.” He groaned dramatically, pulling you back down into the bed and wrapping both arms around you like a human blanket. 

“Stay,” he whispered, kissing your shoulder, his voice soft and sleepy. “We don’t need to go anywhere… just stay here with me.” You rolled your eyes, but there was something sweet about the way he clung to you. 

“Jude, you’re hungover and sleepy,” you teased. “I’ll go without you if I have to. If we’re at the beach, I’m going.” He peeked one eye open at you and smirked.

 “You wouldn’t…” He playfully teased.

“I would,” you teased back, wriggling free from his hold and standing up.  “If I’m staying in bed, I’ll change back into pajamas.” You cooed almost as a threat as you slipped into your bikini, you felt Jude’s eyes on you, and before you could fully finish getting dressed, he groaned again, louder this time, and grabbed your waist, pulling you back into bed with a dramatic sigh. “Okay, okay, I’ll come. Can’t have you putting anymore clothes on around me than this.” You laughed as he finally dragged himself out of bed, grumbling playfully under his breath. Once you both got down to the beach, though, the salty air and the sight of the sun reflecting off the water woke Jude up completely. It was like a switch flipped, and suddenly, he was full of energy, running ahead of you, his hangover seemingly forgotten.

“You’re such a little boy,” you teased, watching as he jogged toward the shore, his excitement contagious.

“Come on, angel, get in the water with me,” Jude called, turning back with that wide, boyish grin you loved. He splashed his feet in the shallow waves, beckoning you with a wave of his hand. You smiled, settling onto the towel, the warmth of the sun sinking into your skin.

“Nooo, baby,” you giggled, shaking your head as you stretched out lazily. “I’m good here, just laying in the sun.” Jude gave you a mock pout, his hands resting on his hips. 

“Pleaseee?” he begged, trying to convince you with that puppy-dog look that always worked. You couldn’t help but laugh, sitting up slightly to look at him.

“Go in the ocean without me,” you smiled, waving him off. “I’ll watch you from here.” He groaned dramatically, but there was a gleam of mischief in his eyes. 

“Fine, but don’t think I’m not dragging you in at some point,” he teased before running into the water, splashing around like a kid. As you watched him, you couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of contentment. Jude’s playful energy, the sound of the waves, the warmth of the sun—it was all perfect. You could hear him gasp at waves as they rolled in echoing over the water, and you couldn’t stop smiling as you laid back on your towel, soaking in the moment. It was like you could feel it was one of those perfect summer afternoons, the kind where the sun seemed to shine a little brighter, the ocean was a shade of navy blue only the east coast of the US had, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore melted away every worry in your mind. You could feel the soft terry cloth beneath your back, soaking in the warmth of the sun, your skin tingling with the mix of suncream and salty sea air. The soft breeze brushed your face as you closed your eyes, the world fading into the background. Jude had stayed in the water, swimming and splashing about, he’d call your name out occasionally reaching your ears over the sounds of the ocean begging you to come in but you continued to decline. You were in that blissful in-between state, half-asleep, half-aware of everything around you, when you finally  heard his footsteps padding up from the shore. You stirred, thinking about sitting up, but Jude quickly stopped you.

“Wait, wait, stay right there,” he said softly, a playful seriousness in his voice. “Don’t move.” Curious, you smiled but stayed where you were, letting your body sink further into the towel. You could hear him rustling around in the sand nearby, collecting something, but you weren’t sure what he was up to. After a few moments, you felt the gentle touch of his fingers, placing something small and cool against your arm. You peeked through your lashes and saw he was outlining your body with seashells. “Stay, just hold on, angel,” he insisted, eyes twinkling with concentration as he carefully placed the shells in a delicate pattern around you. You couldn’t help but giggle at how serious he was being, but you held still, watching him work. It was a simple thing, but there was something so sweet about the way he was so focused on creating his little masterpiece. After a while, though, you grew impatient. He was taking his time, and you wanted him close.

“Judey,” you called softly, “just come here,” You giggled. Without waiting for him to finish, you grabbed his arm and tugged him down onto the towel with you, laughing as he fell beside you. His brow furrowed with a pout initially l. “Did I ruin your art, baby?” You asked him almost patronizingly. 

“You are my art,” He mused, pulling you closer and kissing you. He smiled into the kiss, the sun warm on both of your faces as you lay together in the soft sand. The shells he had so carefully placed were forgotten as the two of you lay there, wrapped up in each other, the summer sun and the sound of the waves creating the perfect backdrop. The world beyond the beach seemed to disappear, and in that moment, all that mattered was the two of you—together, tangled in love, the ocean and sky stretching out before you. The connection between you felt effortless, like this moment could stretch on forever. The smell of saltwater, sunscreen, and his familiar scent all mingled together, creating a feeling of perfect peace. The warmth of the sun and the softness of the sand beneath you made everything seem light and easy. As Jude settled down next to you, his head propped on one arm, he gazed at you with that look of pure adoration that made your heart flutter. He shifted the conversation to something more serious, his voice low but sincere. 

“You know I was serious the other day… about you getting a gallery in Madrid. I really think you could do it. You could expand to have a second location. It would be amazing.” You giggled, a little shy under the weight of his suggestion. 

“I don’t know if my brand is big enough for an international market,” you teased. “I’m not exactly a household name yet.” He smiled softly, shaking his head. 

“Nah, you could. But could come be in Madrid more. I’m not asking you to move for me. I don’t want you to feel pressured. I just… I want you to know I’m thinking about it. Us.” Your heart melted at his words, his thoughtfulness clear in every syllable. You shifted a little, turning to face him fully. 

“Jude, I know you’d never ask me to move for you but it’s nice to know you’d want me there and maybe that’s part of why I’ve been thinking about it.” His eyebrows rose in surprise, his eyes lighting up as he processed your words. 

“You’ve been thinking about moving?” You nodded, smiling as you watched his face. 

“Yeah… for you. I mean, it would be a big change for me, but I’ve thought about it a lot. I’d want to be with you more, and Madrid is beautiful, you’re not so bad. It could be a little adventure.” Jude’s face broke into the most radiant smile, his eyes bright with excitement and disbelief. He shifted closer, his hand resting on your waist as if grounding himself in the moment. 

“You’d really do that? You’d move to Madrid for me… because angel… I don’t want you to feel like… wow— you’d really come?” You nodded, feeling the warmth of the sun and the warmth of his happiness blending together, wrapping around you both. 

“Yeah, I would.” His lips found yours again, a little more urgently this time, the kiss filled with gratitude, excitement, and something deeper—like he knew this was the beginning of a new chapter for both of you. 

“I love you so much.” When he pulled back, he whispered against your lips.

“I love you too,” you whispered back.

After awhile Jude’s body lay sprawled across yours, his head resting on your stomach, his face smushed against your warm skin as he murmured sweet nothings. His voice was soft and low, talking about how beautiful you were, how much he loved you, just babbling in a gentle, almost sleepy rhythm. You know the way a boy only talks to his girlfriend. A way he’d be mortified if anyone else heard.

“You’re so beautiful, angel… like, the most beautiful, angel,” he mumbled, his words slurring slightly as he continued. “I’m so lucky… you know that? So, so lucky becuase you’re mine..” You couldn’t help but smile, your fingers  scratching gently on his scalp as he went on, lost in his little world of affection. It was so sweet in this sort of baby boy talk —until you noticed a shadow fall over you. Glancing up, you saw Winnie walking down from the house, her brow raised in amusement. Winnie sat down next to you, clearly hearing some of Jude’s rambling. You stifled a giggle, trying not to give away her presence just yet. Jude, completely oblivious, kept going.

“God, I love you so much. You’re sooo perfect, angel. Just want you with me all the time. Wanna cuddle all day with my baby,” he babbled, his voice full of affection. You let out a soft giggle, and that was when Jude finally noticed. He froze, lifting his head slightly, and then he saw Winnie sitting there, smirking.

“Oh my fucking God,” Jude cursed, his eyes widening in sheer horror. “I’m gonna die.” He groaned loudly, dropping his head back onto your stomach in embarrassment. Winnie laughed, shaking her head. “Why did you let me keep talking!?” He asked you mortified. 

“Because ‘Youre so perfect, angel.’” Winnie teased him, smiling uncontrollably, mimicking his lovesick tone and brummie accent. 

“I hate you both. I actually hate you both.” Jude let out another groan, his face buried against your skin as he whined.

“Aww it’s okay, Jude. You’re just soooo in love with your baby,” Whitney teased, pinching at him playfully.  Jude pushed himself up, shaking his head in mock frustration before suddenly scooping you up into his arms. 

“Yeah, well guess who’s going in the water now,” he grunted, his lips curving into a mischievous smile as you screamed in surprise.

“Jude, no!” you squealed, wiggling in his arms as he carried you toward the ocean. “I’m sorry! I’m sorry! Please don’t!”

“You should’ve thought of that before,” Jude teased, laughing as he stepped into the waves. Before you could protest again, he dropped into the water, taking you under with him. You came up sputtering and laughing, splashing him as he stood there, his grin wide and unrepentant. He pulled you close, water dripping off both of you as you tried to catch your breath, both of you laughing under the bright summer sun.

“I just like hearing that you love me,” you said, your tone teasing but soft. As you gasped for air, still giggling, you gave Jude a playful pout. Jude, his face still slightly flushed from the embarrassment, shook his head with a smirk and wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close as the water swayed gently around both of you. 

“You know how much I love you, angel,” he whined, still cringing at the memory of Whitney overhearing him. You grinned, squeezing him in a tight hug, planting soft kisses along his neck. 

“I’m sorry,” you whispered between giggles, “but it’s cute, and I love you.”You cooed.  His embarrassment started to melt away under your affection, and he sighed, resting his forehead against yours.

“You’re lucky you’re so beautiful,” he murmured with a grin. You tilted your head, eyes wide with faux innocence. 

“Then, you should carry me back.” You cooed. He pulled back slightly, looking at you like you’d just said the most ridiculous thing in the world. 

“Erm.. No.” he laughed, shaking his head. You pouted dramatically, sticking out your bottom lip. 

“But you carried me down here,” you reasoned, “and I am beautiful.” Jude groaned, running his hand down his face.

“You’re too beautiful,” he muttered, though the smile tugging at his lips betrayed his playful annoyance. With a resigned sigh, he bent down and scooped you up again, your legs instantly wrapping around his waist. You giggled, burying your face in his neck as he started trudging back through the water, his breath heavy from both effort and amusement.

“This is why I love you,” you teased.

“Yeah, yeah,” he chuckled, holding you tightly as he carried you back toward the shore, the sound of the waves crashing behind you.

You and Jude were waiting at the airport to return to Madrid after a few days, the hum of travelers and the muffled announcements filling the air. Jude stood a few steps away, absorbed in something on his phone, while you sat quietly watching people pass by in a lounge. Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed a little boy lingering nearby, shifting his weight awkwardly from one foot to the other, clearly working up the courage to approach Jude. The sight tugged at your heart a bit. You could tell he was starstruck, maybe a little intimidated by Jude’s presence. With a soft smile, you gently tapped Jude’s arm to get his attention.

“Hey, baby,” you said, nodding toward the boy. Jude looked up from his phone and turned to the boy, his tall frame towering over him with a smile. The little boy’s eyes went wide as he looked up at Jude, frozen in awe.

“Do you want me to take a picture for you?” you asked, your voice warm and sweet, trying to ease the boy’s nerves. He nodded silently, too shy to say anything. Jude, noticing his nerves, gave him an encouraging smile.

“Yeah? Go on, come here, mate,” Jude said, beckoning the boy closer. The boy hesitated for just a moment before stepping forward. Jude greeted him warmly, wrapping an arm around his small shoulders, leaning down slightly so they were at eye level. Just as you were about to take the picture, the little boy whispered something you could just make out. 

“Your girlfriend’s pretty and nice,” he said, his voice almost lost in the noise of the airport. Jude laughed, the sound genuine and light. 

“Yeah, she’s great, mate. I’m a lucky lad,” he responded, glancing over at you with a soft smile that sent warmth through your chest. As the boy beamed up at Jude, you snapped the photo. But Jude wasn’t just thinking about the compliment. It went deeper than that. Watching you, sitting there so kind and patient, embracing his world without hesitation—it hit him that you were everything. You didn’t just accept his fame, you handled it with grace and warmth, making everyone around him feel at ease, even when he wasn’t sure how to. You were kind-hearted, understanding, and in that moment, he realized how perfect you truly were for him. As the boy thanked him and ran off to his parents, Jude walked back over to you. His eyes lingered on yours a bit longer, that soft smile still tugging at his lips, and in his mind, all he could think was how lucky he was to have you by his side.

You were finally back in Madrid. The warm breeze floated in through the open windows, filling the room with the scent of the sun-drenched day outside. The white bedding was soft and fluffy, almost glowing in the sunlight that streamed in, casting golden beams across the cool sheets. Your tanned skin contrasted beautifully against the pristine fabric, long forgotten were those itchy sheets of James… or maybe it was John, the warmth of the sun lingering in the air but balanced by the coolness of the breeze. Everything felt light, calm, and perfect, like this could be the rhythm of your life—a gentle, sunlit day, waiting for Jude to come home. You had just closed your laptop, trying to ease a nervous flutter in your chest when you heard the door downstairs. Moments later, Jude stepped into the room, his face lighting up when he saw you. He crossed the room and hugged you from behind, pressing a kiss into your hair, the familiar scent of him grounding you for a moment. His embrace was warm, strong, and exactly what you needed.

“How’s my baby?” he murmured softly, his breath tickling your ear. You smiled, leaning into him, though your nerves from the upcoming series interview still lingered in the back of your mind. He sensed it before you even spoke, his hand gently stroking your arm. “You nervous about the taping?” he asked, his voice filled with concern. 

“No, not really.” You tried to sound casual. But you were lying, and Jude knew it. He tilted his head, brushing his lips softly against your temple.

“Angel… I promise, it’s going to be okay. I’ll be with you the whole time,” he whispered, tightening his hold around you as if he could shield you from the pressure building up inside. You sighed, turning in his arms to face him fully. 

“What if I say the wrong thing? Like… am I even supposed to say I’m your girlfriend?” you asked, the anxiety finally slipping into your voice. Jude grinned, playfully teasing you to ease the tension. 

“Nah, you don’t have to say that,” he chuckled softly. “You could say love of my life, most perfect woman in the world… whatever feels right,” he added with a mischievous smirk. You groaned, playfully swatting at his chest. It was subtle but Jude’s peeled off his shirt.

“Jude!” you whined, your nerves easing just a little as you leaned against him. “I’m serious.” He laughed, his hands slipping down to your waist, holding you a little tighter. 

“Angel, relax,” he murmured, his voice dropping lower, taking on that teasing edge you knew too well. Suddenly your joggers were off. His hands began to roam, tracing lazy patterns against your skin, sending shivers down your spine. “Let me help you relax.” His lips ghosted over your neck, and you could feel his mischievous smile against your skin as you yelped his name in protest, though deep down, you were already melting into his touch. Now all clothes were gone. He knew just how to calm your nerves, pulling you deeper into the comfort of this perfect moment, where nothing else mattered but the two of you, the sun, and the soft sheets beneath you. “Just relax f’me.” He cooed, his breath warm against your ear, sending a tingling sensation down your neck. You smile, feeling his strong, muscular body against yours, the soft cotton sheets barely covering his tanned skin. His brown eyes sparkle with mischief as he notices your satisfied smile. "You really don’t need to stress" he says, his voice deep and sensual. "You’ve got me." With that, he started to gently massage your shoulders, his strong hands working their magic on your tired muscles. You sigh contentedly, letting your worries melt away under his skilled touch. Jude's fingers dance across your skin, tracing lazy circles on your back, making you squirm with pleasure. "Relax, angel," he cooed, his lips brushing against your temple. "Let me just get rid of all this stress." As his hands glide down your spine, you feel your body responding to his touch, a familiar warmth building between your thighs. You arch your back slightly, pressing your tits against his chest, enjoying the sensation of his firm nipples against your sensitive skin. "Mmm, see? You’re already feeling better, huh?" Jude purred, his hands now sliding down to cup your full, round boobs. He thumbs your erect nipples, causing you to gasp and squirm. "See I gotcha angel" He smirked. You reached up and pulled him closer, your lips finding his in a slow, sensual kiss. His tongue danced with yours, tasting the sweetness of your desire. Breaking the kiss, you looked into his eyes, seeing the same hunger reflected back at you.

"I want you to fuck me, Jude. Show me I'm yours," you whisper, your voice hoarse with need. "But I want you to go slow, take your time with me." You smiled with wide eyes filled with both a bit of innocence laced with lust. Jude's hands traveled down your body, leaving a trail of goosebumps in their wake. He knelt between your legs, his eyes fixed on your core, now glistening with anticipation. With a gentle touch, he parts your folds, exposing your swollen clit to the warm morning air.

"You're so wet, baby," he murmurs, his voice thick with desire. "Let me taste you." And with that, he lowers his head, his tongue flicking across your sensitive bud, sending shockwaves of pleasure through your body. Your back arched off the bed as his mouth teased and pleased you, his tongue delving deep inside your pussy, lapping up your sweet juices. You gripped his hair, holding him close, as wave after wave of pleasure washes over you. Just when you though you couldn’t take any more, Jude stops, his breath hot against your throbbing clit. 

"Not yet, angel," he teased, his fingers replacing his tongue, circling your sensitive bundle of nerves. He slid one long finger inside your tight, wet pussy, his thumb continuing to work your clit. You moaned, your hips rising to meet his touch, your body desperate for release. 

"Please, Jude," you begged, your voice barely a whisper. In response, he added another finger, stretching you, filling you, his thumb never ceasing its relentless assault on you. You're on the edge, teetering on the brink of orgasm, when he suddenly stops again, leaving you panting and desperate.

"Shhh, angel… you said you wanted me to take my time.” He smirked. “We have all the time in the world," he reassured you, his voice soothing your frayed nerves. "Just want you to cum on my cock instead, yeah?" You nodded as Jude positioned himself above you, his hard cock brushing against your wet entrance. He teased you, rubbing the head of his dick along your slit, coating himself with your juices, before slowly, oh so slowly, pushing inside. You gasped as he filled you, inch by glorious inch, his cock thick and hard, stretching you in the most delicious way. He set a slow, sensual rhythm, his hips moving in a gentle, rocking motion, his eyes never leaving yours. "You feel so fucking good, Y/N," he groaned, his voice strained as he fought for control. "So tight and warm. I could fuck you forever." You wrapped your legs around his waist, pulling him deeper, needing to feel every inch of him. Your hands roamed over his muscular back, feeling the play of his powerful muscles as he moved within you. The pace quickened, your bodies moving in perfect harmony, your moans and cries filling the room. You were close, so fucking close, when Jude pulled out, his cock glistening in the sunlight covered in you and flipped you onto your hands and knees. "I want you like this f’me. I know you love taking me like this" he panted, his voice thick with desire. 

“Please please Jude. Fuck me, make me cum all over you cock. I want you to fuck me til your cums dripping out of me.” You whined desperate as he kept edging you. You eagerly presented your wet pussy, your ass raised high, back arched, your tits hanging tantalizingly below you. Jude entered you in one smooth thrust, filling you completely, his balls slapping against your clit with each stroke. You cried out, the new angle and the depth of his penetration sending you into a frenzy. "Oh fuck, Jude, fuck me!" you begged, your words punctuated by his deep, relentless thrusts. Jude reached around you, his fingers finding your swollen clit. He began to rub it in time with his thrusts. The dual stimulation was too much, and you came apart in his arms, your orgasm ripping through you, causing you to scream his name. Jude followed quickly, his cock throbbing as he emptied himself deep within you, his hands gripping your hips tightly, his body shuddering with release. As your heart rates return to normal, you collapsed onto the bed, your bodies still joined, the sun still streaming in. As he pulled out you turned to Jude, a satisfied smile on your face, and pulled him close, kissing him deeply.

"I think I’m relaxed now," you whispered, snuggling into his strong embrace. "Thank you,” you giggled. He smiled, his eyes full of adoration. 

"I love you so much.” He told you and your heart fluttered as you laid on the bed still havening trouble breathing, your skin covered in a slight sheen. You moved your fingers to intertwine with Judes. You were sore after that one but it was a nice sort of pain and to be honest, you were a little too fucked out to really notice it anyways.  “You alright, angel?” Jude squeezed your hand.

“Mhmm,” you hummed, slightly falling into a sleepy daze. You lay curled up in Jude’s arms, the cool breeze from the open windows brushing over your skin as the two of you lay entangled. The exhaustion from your earlier passionate moments left a pleasant heaviness in your limbs, but the comfort of being close to him made you feel completely at ease. Jude’s fingers gently traced patterns along your back as he pressed a kiss to your forehead, his voice soft and tender. 

“I want to be with you forever,” he murmured, his words slow and deliberate, like he was giving each one extra weight. “ Would you want that?” He asked almost sheepishly like as the words came out he got nervous you’d say now. You nodded though to his relief, your head nestled against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. 

“Yes please,” you whispered, feeling the warmth of his skin against yours, the scent of him still lingering in the air. His arms tightened around you as if he was afraid to let go. Jude’s lips grazed your temple again before he asked, his voice filled with concern, 

“Promise you’re okay after… all of that?” He smirked but his tone held a softness that told you he wanted to make sure you were genuinely all right after the intensity of your earlier moments together. You nodded again, but he wasn’t having it. “I need real words, angel,” he teased lightly, though there was an edge of seriousness in his voice. You smiled, lifting your head to look at him. 

“Yeah, I’m okay,” you reassured him softly. “I want you forever, and I definitely want what we just did forever.” You giggled. He smiled, clearly satisfied with your response, his eyes warm as he held your gaze. 

“Good,” he murmured, before letting out a soft chuckle. “Want to get cleaned up?” He asked gently. You groaned in protest, burying your face back into his chest. 

“Nooo,” you whined playfully, snuggling closer. “Just want a cuddle and a nap.” Jude laughed softly, his chest rumbling beneath you, as he pulled you even closer. 

“Alright, angel. You can have whatever you want. You can have a nap and a cuddle from me,” he whispered, his voice fading into a hum as you both drifted into a peaceful, contented quiet.

You and Denise sat in the sunlit kitchen, the hum of Madrid in the distant background. The smell of freshly brewed coffee, of course made from the beloved French press, swirled in the air, but your mind was far from settled. You’d been running over this conversation in your head for days now, and even sitting here with Denise, who’d become something of a second mother to you, you couldn’t shake the anxiety that gnawed at your thoughts. She watched you carefully, sensing something deeper behind your polite smile and quiet fidgeting.

“Can I ask your opinion on something?” you began, hesitant, your voice almost trembling. You looked up from your cup, feeling the weight of the words already forming in your mind. Denise set her coffee down, leaning in slightly, her eyes soft with concern. 

“Of course, love. What’s on your mind?” You took a breath, trying to find the right way to explain everything that had been racing through your head. 

“Jude wants me to be in the series,” you finally said, a nervous smile flickering across your face. “I mean, like properly be in it. And it’s not that I mind the idea, but I’m just… apprehensive. I keep thinking about how things could change for him.” Denise furrowed her brow slightly, listening intently. 

“What kind of changes are you worried about?” She asked. You sighed, your fingers tracing the rim of your coffee cup. 

“If I’m publically stamped as his girlfriend,” you began slowly, “everything’s going to be different. People will start making assumptions. Every time he’s seen with another woman, they’ll say he’s cheating, or there’ll be all this gossip. And Jude… I mean, he’s just so trusting. I don’t think he realizes how bad it could get. I don’t want that kind of pressure to mess with his head or affect his game.” Denise’s expression softened as she listened, understanding the depth of what you were saying. She reached over, giving your hand a gentle squeeze. 

“Hun, I hear you,” she said kindly. “You don’t want to say yes to the shoot, and then down the line, Jude feels boxed in by the public scrutiny. That’s a real concern.” She cooed.  You nodded, grateful that she seemed to get it. 

“Exactly. And I don’t want him to feel like he has to choose between his career and me, or like his life is going to become more of a circus because of my feature in a show.” Denise smiled sympathetically. 

“I can see why you’d be worried. It’s a big step. But the only way you affect his performances is when you’re not here. The way I see it, he’s not trying to hide you because he’s embarrassed or anything like that. Jude’s protective of you, sure, but I think he’s reached a point where he’s proud to show you off. He loves you, hun. He’s not going anywhere.” You felt your chest tighten, but this time it was more from emotion than anxiety. 

“I guess I just don’t want to make things harder for him,” you murmured, your voice small, almost as if you were admitting something you hadn’t even fully realized until now. Denise gave you a soft smile, her gaze unwavering.

“I think Jude would feel like having you by his side is worth any challenge that comes with it. And as far as pressure goes—look, he’s already dealing with it. Football, fame, it all comes with expectations. But you two have something real, and I think that’s stronger than any of the noise that’s out there. You’re his balance. His constant.” Her words hit you deeply, and you felt the knot of anxiety in your stomach begin to slowly unravel. It wasn’t just about you worrying over what people would say, but about how Jude would handle the inevitable attention. Yet Denise’s words carried a truth you couldn’t deny. He wasn’t asking this of you lightly. He was ready to share this part of his life because he wanted to share it with you. You nodded, the overwhelming weight of your thoughts lightening ever so slightly. 

“I guess I just don’t want to be the reason things get complicated.” Denise chuckled softly, her hand still resting over yours.

“Oh, love, you’ve been with him this long—through ups and downs. You’re not making things more complicated; you’re making them better. Trust me, Jude knows that.” The warmth in her voice brought a small smile to your face. Maybe she was right. Maybe Jude had thought this through more than you’d given him credit for. And maybe, just maybe, this was the next step you both were ready to take, together. You smiled at Denise’s words, feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth and comfort from her. She was like a grounding force, always knowing what to say to ease your worries.

“I just don’t want him to feel like I’m asking to be his wife or anything,” you said softly, but as soon as the words left your mouth, you realized how vulnerable they sounded. You’d forgotten for a moment that you were talking to Jude’s mom, not just a close friend, but she had this way of making you feel like family. You felt your cheeks warm slightly, realizing the gravity of what you had just implied. Denise laughed gently, a soft and knowing sound. 

“Hun,” she said, her voice filled with affection, “ I also think that Jude wouldn’t be asking you to do this if he wasn’t sure about how much he wanted you by his side—publicly…. Or privately. Jude’s been telling me he’s been trying to get you to move here for a while. I really don’t think he’d mind that either—if anything, he might be waiting for you to ask. You two are good at communicating, and he knows what comes with all of this. We’ve never dealt with a girlfriend at this height of his fame yet, but we’re all here for you. Truly.” You watched her expression soften, her eyes glimmering with the kind of wisdom that only comes from years of experience and love. “And between us,” she continued, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, “I think it’d be wonderful if you spent more time here. I’d love having you around. And Jude—well, he could finally stop spending every day complaining when you’re not.” She chuckled, the sound brightening the room. “Plus, I’d get to see Jobe more often. Promise, hun, these things work themselves out. You just have to focus on what makes you happy.” The truth of her words settled in your heart, comforting and yet a little unsettling. You bit your lip, thinking about how your happiness had become so intertwined with Jude’s. 

“Him being happy makes me happy,” you admitted, your voice soft but sincere. Denise smiled, her eyes twinkling with understanding. 

“Good, because I like when you’re both happy. You two have something special, and I don’t want you to lose sight of that.” She leaned in, kissing your temple, and gave your arm a gentle squeeze. “It’s important that you take care of yourself in all this, too. Just trust yourselves. You’ll figure it out.” You took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the conversation settle in. 

“I just worry about how much everything is changing,” you confessed, your voice barely above a whisper. “This life, this level of spotlight—it’s all so new to me, and I don’t want it to change how we are together.” Denise nodded knowingly, her expression serious but gentle. 

“Change can be scary, especially when it feels like it’s being thrust upon you. But remember, love isn’t bound by circumstances. It’s about how you both navigate those changes together. Talk to him, share your fears. You’ll find that he’s just as invested in this as you are.” A small smile crept onto your face as you thought about Jude, his laughter, his warmth, and how he always seemed to know when you needed reassurance. 

“He really is the best but you know that,” you said, the smile widening at the thought of him. Denise smiled back, her eyes shining with maternal pride.

“I like to think so but don’t forget, you’re amazing too. Jude sees that. Just be you, and everything else will fall into place. You’ll both adjust to whatever comes your way.” She told you surely. 

“Thank you, Denise,” you said sincerely, feeling grateful for her support. “I really appreciate this. I just want to make the right decision.”

“Trust your heart, hun. It knows what’s best for you. And don’t hesitate to lean on us, okay? We’re here for you, no matter what.” With that, you felt a renewed sense of hope and confidence wash over you. You’d tackle this uncertainty together, just like you always had. And with Denise by your side, you knew you were not alone in this journey. 

The room was staged for your interview or maybe you’d call it more of a confessional like on reality tv. It was buzzing, cameras rolling as you settled into your seat, laughing to yourself about how surreal it all felt. Jude was supposed to stay in the other room, but the moment you noticed him lingering just inside, you couldn’t help but call him out, cameras already rolling. 

“You can’t be in the room!” you teased, your smile stretching wide. Jude leaned against the doorframe, eyebrows raised in playful defiance. 

“What? Are you going to talk about me?” His grin was as smug as ever, the kind that always made you roll your eyes, but in the most affectionate way. You turned to the camera crew with a long, exaggerated sigh all being recorded. 

“He’s so annoying.” You deadpanned, though your laughter quickly broke through your pretend irritation. The crew chuckled along, amused by the obvious chemistry between you two. The man behind the camera peppered you with questions but then steered into a conversation more about football as anticipated. 

“And now you watch quite a bit more Real Madrid games, huh?” He asked sort of teasingly after you told him you had watched prior to knowing Jude. 

“I do,” you nodded, a knowing smile on your face. “I don’t think I’m allowed to say who I used to support, though…” you trailed off, laughing. “But I’ve been converted according to Jude.” You smiled. “Madrid has some of my favorite players anyway, so it wasn’t that hard.” You continued. Your voice was playful, teasing the fact that you knew Jude would know exactly who those other players were.

“And your favorite player is?” the interviewer asked, leaning forward with a sly grin anticipating Jude to be the answer. You tilted your head, thinking, and then smirked. 

 “Player or person? Because those are definitely not the same answer.” You giggled. You grinned wider, leaning into the joke. “Person? It has to be Birmingham’s very own.” You shot a quick glance towards the door you knew Jude must’ve been hugging in an effort to try to listen in. “But as for player…” you paused for dramatic effect, your eyes twinkling with mischief. “J’adore Kylian, j’adore. He’s the best in the world, non?” You cheekily told them. Before the words were even fully out of your mouth, Jude’s voice boomed from the door. 

“Nah, cut!” he said, storming into the room with a fake, exaggerated look of betrayal on his face.

“Jude!” you whined annoyed he was listening in but you were laughing as he came over, standing in front of you, arms crossed, trying and failing to look serious.

“Say that again, angel. Who’s your favorite player?” His voice dropped playfully, eyes narrowed but full of humor. “Go on, say it to my face then” You laughed, knowing exactly what you’d started. 

“What, baby?” you teased back innocently. “Kylian est incroyable. Am I supposed to lie?” You giggled.  Jude’s hand shot out to cover the camera lens, and with a swift motion, he knocked it slightly off-kilter, sending the viewfinder up toward the ceiling. The crew was in on the joke now, chuckling behind the scenes as Jude loomed over you, smirking.

“Nah, not having that Angel. ‘Ah Kylian incroyable,’” he murmured mockingly, before burying his face in the crook of your neck. His breath was warm against your skin as he mumbled sweet but teasing nothings, his words muffled but unmistakably teasing. You could barely contain your laughter, giggling uncontrollably as Jude peppered your neck and shoulders with playful kisses. His hands gripped your waist as he pulled you closer, and you squirmed in your seat, trying to push him away, but not really meaning it. The sounds of your laughter filled the room, mixing with the faint shuffling of the camera still recording from its skewed angle. 

“Jude, stop!” you gasped through your giggles, but he only kissed you more, grinning against your skin. The camera picked up the noise of kisses against your skin, the pet names, the type of teasing that only two people in love did. All of it saved and set to be included in the final edit of the show. 

“Oh my godddd, they’re so cute!” Whitney squealed loudly from the living room, practically bouncing on the couch as she watched the first episode of Jude’s now released series. She pouted, eyes glued to the screen. 

“Who’s cute?” From the kitchen, Trent’s voice called out.

“Ugh, come look!” Whitney rolled her eyes playfully as she turned her attention back to the TV. The screen showed one of many clips you seemed to be featured in indirectly. It was a post-match clip, with a wide angle of Jude greeting his family and friends in a box at the stadium. You were standing with Jude, his arm around you. The murmur of the room picked up by microphones low but your voice was amongst them was easily identifiable by Whitney. She could hear you softly saying how proud you were of Jude, and he responded by kissing your temple, keeping you close to him. Whitney practically melted at the sight, throwing a hand over her heart. “He put her in the show!” she yelled, delighted. Trent came sauntering back into the room, leaning on the back of the couch with a smirk. 

“Wow… I’m surprised she agreed to that,” he said, watching the clip with a raised brow. Whitney giggled, shaking her head. 

“I mean.. she really isn’t in it much but look at them” She was glued to the screen again, not wanting to miss a second. But then much to Whitney’s delight when the next episode rolled, and there you were, sitting down for an interview she squealed once more. “Oh, this is so on-brand for them,” She giggled hearing you call Jude annoying and then him barging in to kiss and tease you. “They’re so good together.” Whitney sighed, her pout returning in full force. But then a soft smile tugged at her lips from how much she adored seeing her best friend in that moment. Trent glanced at the screen and chuckled, then kissed the top of Whitney’s head.

 “Good match making, beautiful” he cooed, complimenting her before heading back to the kitchen. Whitney just grinned, completely in agreement.

🪩🫶❤️‍🔥🍹🌞🍒 Thank you for reading! Please like, comment, or message what you think of the chapter 🍒🌞🍹❤️‍🔥🫶🪩

Next part - Chapter 21 - Space xx

[cleolinda]

I’ve read a few of the umpteen thousand upset comments about the paid Watcher service, and I’ve read comments angry about the upset comments. There’s one thing I want to point out, and it’s that this isn’t, or shouldn’t be, “You’re saying people don’t deserve to earn money for their work.”

The Watcher guys do deserve to earn money. I already give them money. I give them $5 a month on Patreon, not because I think they do or don’t give me $5 worth of media, but because I want to support them. I canceled Netflix for pissing me off with its price hike/ad tier, but I give Watcher Entertainment money.

They’re saying now that the Patreon will be solely about the podcasts, and they understand if people leave. I’m perfectly happy to switch the support I can afford to the streaming service. With the early adopter 30% discount, I’d actually save money. In fact, I tried to subscribe, but the site didn’t work.

Watcher wanting to profit from their shows isn’t the problem. It’s that they’re now discovering that their fanbase is young and broke in a terrible economy, judging by tens of thousands of comments on multiple platforms. I can throw them $5/month, so I do. But the Patreon only has (checks notes) 5874 paying followers, and there’s a reason for that. $60/year upfront would not be “accessible.” Patreon is literally patronage from the people who can afford it.

If the guys had said up front, “ONLY new shows and episodes will be exclusive to the service,” I think we’d be having a different conversation right now. But at first they did say, “We’re pulling all our content from YouTube,” to the point where Variety had to issue an update. Like, that’s in print and I’m pretty sure it was on video. Now they’ve backtracked to ONLY new etc.—but most people haven’t heard, and they feel crushed. And the trust is probably gone regardless.

So now four years of back catalogue will stay public. And now, you’re paying $6.99 a month for one episode, maybe two, of something a week, and now, not an exclusive back catalogue. I would pay for Watcher shows before I’d pay for anyone else, but I just don’t think the company is big enough yet for a SVOD at that price. They’re not Dropout size. They needed to build more programming and get a higher follower count first, or at the very least, charge less.

The international price/exchange rate situation is a nightmare and I don’t know what it is they’re not doing to make it… not… be like that.

I don’t know what they should have done instead of a full streaming service, but surely there were alternatives? I’ve seen comments from people suggesting they GET a Patreon. Lean on that more! Do the shows exclusive for a month and then let them roll onto YouTube! I don’t know! Anything but One More Fucking Streaming Service, which enraged me, and I was willing to move my support to it!

And I shouldn’t say this, but I will. In the “Goodbye YouTube” video the guys posted, they say that setting up the streaming service has allowed Steven to do a remake of Worth It where he and his cohosts travel the world and eat expensive food. This is the first new show they announce. Not “We have always been committed to diversity and we’re now able to bring on new creator(s) to expand our programming.” No, a redo of an old show that by definition has got to be expensive. Commenters are saying they can’t pay for the streaming service because they can’t make ends meet in this economy. The optics are terrible. I genuinely question what the thought process even was here.

I love the guys and I still watch their shows. I want to see Watcher succeed. I started watching Buzzfeed Unsolved in 2018 while recovering from surgery—as with a lot of people, their shows got me through a tough time. I’m as attached as anyone. If I can continue to afford monthly support—this is not a certainty—I’ll give it to them. I’m not a ~hater who doesn’t want Watcher to make money. But I am absolutely BAFFLED by every single decision here. I want them to figure out how to turn this around and go in a better direction, because right now, this ain’t it.

[sweetdispatch]

Forget about us - A. Matthews

Songs masterlist

song: Forget about us - Perrie

pairing: Auston Matthews x fem!reader

summary: Retrospection from Auston and his (ex) girlfriend relationship

warning: none i think???

words: 1.8k

note: I tried to write without a name so tell me what you think and which one you prefer more, with or without!

---

One night in 2016 changed her and Auston’s lives. He just came to play hockey for local team. She got accepted on university here. Both clicked in a minute. They’ve been just a teenagers but after one party, they saw future with each other and they knew, they are made for each other.

After a month, Auston asked her to be his girlfriend. She was over the moon. He was her first true love. In 2017, she moved to his house. Despite their busy schedules, they always found times for every week dates. People were saying that they’re soulmates.

Auston had never been afraid of showing her on social media. They were one of the most popular couples in NHL. On every home game, you could see her face in the stands, rooting for him. He was more than grateful to have her by her side. She could say the same about Auston. She felt his support every time when she was at her low.

Everything changed at the beginning of 2024. She wasn’t going on his games. People were assuming that she’s pregnant and doesn’t want to be in spotlight. They hoped to see soon a ring on her finger, but this never happened. When people were asking about her absence, Auston decided to make a statement. He wrote on his Instagram that they split up. It was shock to everyone. They always looked so in love with each other and after almost 8 years of dating, they broke up. They never shared the information why they decided to part away. Lot of journalists were asking Auston questions but due respect to her, he never said anything. All they were left with, were memories.

Saw you blew up, and I’m proud of you

After they split up, she stopped paying attention to hockey. It was too hurtful for her. All she knew about this sport was thanks to Auston. With time, the city started to overwhelm her with the memories. She moved to Quebec City. In new place, she felt alive without hockey on every single step. She made new friends and got a new job. She found new hobbies like yoga and painting. She started to discover herself from the beginning.

In one of the hot and sunny days in August, she was driving her car to work. She was late already and forgot to plug her phone to put on her music. She turned the radio on just to have something playing in the background. She couldn’t drive in silence. The radio station was playing the most popular songs until they started sport news and then, she heard his name.

The journalist said “John Tavares is not the captain anymore! Toronto Maple Leafs just announced that Auston Matthews has become 26th captain in the franchise history and first-ever born American to be their captain…”. She couldn’t focus on the rest of the news. All she felt were tears going down her cheeks. She knew her makeup is ruined but she didn’t care.

She wanted to act surprised, but she couldn’t. She knew that he deserved the “C” like no one else and one day he’s gonna get it. She was super proud of him. Before she left the car, she grabbed her phone and wanted to write to him with congratulations but she stopped herself.

She started talking about this to her friends. They weren’t pleased that she’s mentioning her ex-boyfriend, but they saw how happy she is while talking about him. She was smiling all the time, and they haven’t saw her that joyful since she and Auston split up, so they let it slip.

I don’t want you ever to forget about us in the front seat,

Listenin’ to songs that made you think about me

Auston was always nervous before the games. It was causing arguments between him and her because he was taking his frustration on her. She came up with great idea. Most players take naps before matches, but he wasn’t one of them. One day, she told him to get into the car. He obeyed and sat in passenger seat. She started the car and was driving around city. She put music on and talked to him about the tv show she’s currently watching. She wanted to keep his head busy and far away from hockey.

He loved their trip and asked her before every home game to go on a little trip. She gladly accepted his offer but from now, he was driver. He preferred to have her on passenger seat where he can keep his hand on her thigh.

She was very specific about the music. She was always the one to choose songs. Auston didn’t mind it. He saw how much of a joy it is for her, to show him her favorite songs or just put one of her playlists. She loved singing in the car and soon after, Auston was doing this with her. It was always a great fun for them. For these little moments, he was grateful.

After they break up, Auston continued this tradition to calm his nerves. Before every game, he was driving around and listening to songs from her favorite playlist. It wasn’t the same like with her. He was now all alone in the car. Singing wasn’t that much fun without her. He tried couple times, but it felt wrong to him. Instead, he decided to listen to her playlist when he was driving to the rink for a game.

But when I hear your name, it’s still so raw

Auston loved her name. It was so unique, yet so normal. It was a pleasure for him to say it. He was feeling pride when he was introducing her to new people and could say it out loud. To call her his. He was using pet names towards her like love, dove, sweetheart or baby, but none of the nicknames could replace her name and how much he loved it.

When they broke up, he felt like her name is a forbidden word. He never said it again. He hated hearing it from others mouth. It felt wrong to him. When he started to hooking up with other women, and heard that one of them share the same name, he ditched the woman. It was a fresh wound for him. He didn’t wanted to disrespect the legacy she built in his life.

Do you remember the way we fell, and,

Like everything froze with just once glance?

They met in one of the clubs. Her friends visited her and decided to go and get drunk. She was more than willing for this idea. It was a casual night out. She hasn’t planned to meet anyone. She just wanted to enjoy her and her friends.

Auston went to the club with his friends to celebrate his draft. He was delighted that he’s gonna be in NHL. He planned to get drunk and maybe to hook up with someone. Nothing binding. Although this changed when he saw her.

When their eyes met in the club, both froze in a spot. She felt like she saw the most handsome men in the world. He felt like he saw the most beautiful woman in the world. He wanted to go and talk with her, but he lost his confidence. He was confident that this gorgeous girl must be in a relationship. When his friends saw his state, they pushed him to make a move.

Auston went to talk with her, and they clicked immediately. They found out that they have common passions and interests. The next day, he asked her on a date. They’ve been spending every day together and after a month, Auston asked her to be official for what she was grateful.

I don’t want you ever to forget about us

I know we were never perfect, but I think about the life we never had

She loved talking with Auston about their future. When they adopted a dog, she felt like it’s a big step for them. She always imagined their married life in a big house with a dog and kids. She was the only child and she dreamt about having at least three kids.

Auston always listened to her stories about their future life but never said anything. He saw future with her, but he felt like it’s happening to fast. Yes, they’ve been together for almost 8 years, but he hasn’t felt the need to settle down. They just adopted a dog and now, she’s talking about kids. He wanted to focus on hockey and feel free, without kids around.

He knew that he should put a ring on her finger. They’ve been together for so long and she deserved that, but he was scared. He wasn’t ready to be married. He wasn’t ready to have kids. That’s why, he decided to break up with her. He didn’t want to keep her behind with her plans. He knew how much raising a family means to her.

She couldn’t accept the fact that he’s breaking up with her over this. She wanted to fight for their relationship. Both were madly in love in each other, but Auston didn’t wanted her to regret staying with him when he’s prioritizing his career over their future life. Although, after thinking about it, she realized he’s right. Auston was keeping her from this. That’s why she agreed to split up. It was heartbreaking moment for them, but they knew it’s the best decision since they want different things.  

Yeah, we both found different love, and we’re movin’ on

After they broke up, Auston started hooking up with other women. Soon after, he fell in love with one of the girls. It wasn’t the same kind of love but still it was love for him. He moved on from his past relationship, but he could never forget her. He believed that she was the best thing that happened to him, but he knew, she never will be his again.

When she moved to Quebec City, she haven’t planned on looking for a new boyfriend. All she wanted was to heal. Through common friends, she met another guy. He was loving and caring towards her. When he asked her to be his girlfriend, she agreed. Even when she wasn’t feeling it in 100%, she was happy to have someone by her side.

I don’t want you ever to forget about us

She and Auston moved on, but the 8 years built them. They became the best version of themselves thanks to each other. Maybe they haven’t been together anymore, but they couldn’t forget about each other. Their love damaged them from having next relationships. She was comparing every guy to Auston and Auston was comparing every girl to her. With time, they realized they’ve made huge mistake by breaking up with each other but none of them wanted to reach to the other and try to get back together. They moved on but they haven’t forgot about each other.

[zweigsangel]

pairing: patrick zweig x fem!reader

summary: from the first moment he sees you, he wants to go out with you at all costs. but it’s not that easy.

warnings: cursing, use of y/n and that’s literally all, patrick deserves more cute stuff!!!

patrick had never believed in love at first sight. he always thought it was just bullshit. that was until he went to stanford to visit art and saw you playing with him. you were wearing a white miniskirt that highlighted your perfectly tanned legs, each step you took revealing their toned elegance. your brown long hair was tied up in a high ponytail, and it swayed with every movement you made as you tossed the ball. patrick understood, then and there, that love at first sight wasn't just a myth—it was real, and it had just happened to him.

“are you just going to stand there and watch, or what?” your voice snapped him back to reality. you turned around, holding the racket in one hand and resting the other on your hip, squinting at patrick because of the bright sun. art, on the other side of the court, was covering his mouth to stifle his laughter.

a smirk spread across patrick’s face as he stepped closer. “i’m patrick,” he said. “i know.” you replied nonchalantly, hitting another ball towards art, your movements graceful and precise. you didn’t even spare patrick a glance.

“and you are?” he asked. “y/n,” you sighed, turning back towards him. “art, could you please take your boyfriend away from me?” you said, directing your words at the blond guy.

patrick’s smile widened, unable to hide his amusement. yes, he was already head over heels in love.

every time he went to stanford, patrick found any excuse to talk to you. and he asked you out every single time, despite you always refusing. but patrick loved a challenge and was determined to win you over, no matter how many times you turned him down.

one afternoon, while you were taking a break from practice, he approached you again. “c’mon, let me take you somewhere,” he suggested, leaning in casually. you took out your water bottle, savoring a long sip as you looked at him.

“no thanks. ‘m busy,” you replied. “i didn't even tell you when,” he persisted. “i’m always busy,” you said with a shrug. you picked up your racket, signaling that the conversation was over. patrick just stood there, watching you with that persistent smirk on his face.

"why won’t you just say yes?” art asked as the two of you walked down the dormitory hallway towards your room. being patrick’s best friend, it was obvious he would try to convince you in every possible way. “i know you probably haven’t heard the best things about him, but at least give him a chance,”

you rolled your eyes dramatically, a sigh escaping your lips, and replied as you reached your door.“not even if you fucking paid me.” the door creaked open, and you stepped inside. before art could respond, you turned back and added, “actually, maybe if you paid me.” you laughed, the sound echoing softly in the hallway as you closed the door, leaving art shaking his head with a smile on his face.

patrick had even started slipping handwritten notes under your door. ‘i won't stop until you say yes, just so you know,’ one read in his unmistakable scrawl. you shook your head and grabbing a pen, you scribbled a quick reply on the other side of the note: ‘find another bitch who will say yes.’ you slid the paper back under the door, imagining the determined grin that would spread across patrick’s face when he read it.

it was a day like any other, and you were training with a teammate. you were focused on the game when the sound of footsteps caught your attention. turning around, you weren't surprised to see patrick approaching you quickly, hands hidden behind his back.

“again? will you really never give up?” you asked, chuckling as you wiped a bead of sweat from your forehead. patrick brought his hands forward, revealing a bouquet of flowers. you tried to hide a smile, but the gesture was so unexpected that it was practically impossible. you took the flowers and placed them gently on the ground next to your sports bag.

“fine,” you said, rolling your eyes playfully. patrick’s face lit up. “now go,” you added, placing your hands on his chest and giving him a gentle push. “i’ll pick you up at 7,” he said as you turned back to continue your practice.

as you resumed playing, you couldn't help but laugh when you heard patrick’s excited cheer echoing as he walked away, his victory finally achieved.

[sundewhasaudhd]

Fuck it, I know I said I wouldn’t post things about my AU’s out of order, but it’s my blog, and do want I fucking want

Sad TNT duo scene (tw: knives, suicide)

(PS, this thing’s pretty long, so you might wanna go grab some potatocorn or something):

W: *Looking down sadly at his reflection in his knife*

Q: *Practically slams open this man’s fucking door like he isn’t breaking and entering* Jesus fucking Christ Wilbur, where the fuck have you been?! I…people were really starting to worry about you.

W: (to himself) You, you cared?

Q: What?

W: Nothing. Why are you here?

Q: Did you not hear me dipshit, looking for you. I hadn’t seen you in a few days, I was starting to get concerned.

W: That feels a bit dramatic, don’t you think?

Q: Not when you’re at my border bugging me everyday, no

W: …

Q: You ok?

W: Yeah, yeah, I’m fine

Q: You sure? There were a lot of pauses in that four word sentence. Y’know if you have something you want to say to me you can say it

W: Yeah, since when has that been true?

Q: Excuse me 

W: Never mind, that’s not important right now

Q: Feels pretty damn important, but ok, sure

W: *takes a deep breathe* Quackity, kill me

Q: W-w-w

W: It’s perfect, I won’t be able to hurt you or anyone else, and you won’t have to put up with me anymore 

Q: Wilbur if this is your idea of “a joke” it’s not very funny

W: What about me asking you to kill me sounds like a joke to you? It’s not that hard if that’s what you’re concerned about. There are a bunch of knives in here, just take your pick. There are some over there, I think I have one near my bed, plus I’m sure you plenty weapons in your room. *Wilbur’s voice starts fading out* And you don’t have to make it painless if you don’t want to… *his voice is completely drowned out by either ringing or static, I haven’t fully decided yet*

Q: N-no you said you wouldn’t leave me! Th-that you’d be here for me! You promised you wouldn’t leave me again! You promised!

W: That’s what I do Quackity. I lie. I lie and I hurt and that’s all I’ll ever be good for. I can’t change that, no one can, which is why it’d be better for everyone if you just killed me

Q: I- no I’m not gonna kill you Wilbur!

W: Quackity, I want you to look me in the eye and tell me a single reason why I still deserve to live, why I should still be here tomorrow

Q: I-

W: You can’t. I know you can’t. And that’s okay. That’s great even! That’s you realizing how badly I’ve hurt you, and that you shouldn’t want me around *placing his knife in Quackity’s hand, which his dumbass doesn’t notice, because Wilbur’s touching his face and he’s gay* I don’t deserve to live Quackity. *starts moving Quackity’s hands (the knife) towards his chest* You should know that more then anyone. The only thing I’ve ever given you is pain, especially when you’re already hurting. You’re just doing yourself a disservice by letting me live.

W: Y’know, I really will miss you. You’re my favorite person, and I love spending every second I can with you. But that’s really selfish of me. At least you won’t miss have to miss me. Hell, anyone with half a brain cell won’t miss me

Q: What the fuck are you on about, of course I’d miss you if you died!

W: No, you won’t. I mean, come on, why would you. You hate me, remember

Q: I don’t h- *sees the knife in his hands, and then immediately drops it* Jesus, what the fuck is wrong with you?!

W: EVERYTHING!!! Every single decision I’ve ever made was at the expense of someone else! I’m trying to do the only good thing I can with my pathetic existence by ending it, which YOU don’t seem to understand! 

Q: Because that’s stupid! Yeah, you’ve hurt people, so what? We’ve all hurt someone else at some point!

W: CAN YOU JUST SHUT THE FUCK UP AND DO SOMETHING USEFUL FOR ONCE IN YOUR FUCKING LIFE!

Q: …

W: I’m- this is exactly what I’m talking about. This is all I do. So, just pick up the knife, and put an end to my pathetic existence

Q: No! I won’t kill you Wilbur

W: Why are you being so stubborn about this?

Q: Because I love you, ok! I love you a lot. You’re the only constant in my life, and I really don’t wanna think about what would happen if you weren’t here. You’re my everything. And I *shaky sigh* I just can’t lose you again

W: …

Q: Fuck, just forget I said anything. I’ll just leave and pray that your not dead tomorrow mornin-

W: *hugs in gay* I love you too 

Q: *starts crying while hugging Wilbur tighter*

IF YOU LIKE MY SCRIPTS, PLEASE REBLOG :3

[clonedchaos]

GUYS GUYS GUYSSSS IM LOSING MY MINNNNDDDD TRANSFORMERS ONE WAS SO GOOODDDD THIS IS LEGIT ME RN:

Okay, but seriously though, I really enjoyed it and want to make plans to see it again. So if you haven’t already, I highly recommend the film. It’s criminally underrated in terms of the box office, so go show it the love it so rightfully deserves!!! 🥰

Anywho, if you want to hear nonsensical spoilers, feel free to read below the cut.

Childhood me would never think I’d be somewhat shipping Optimus and Megatron but like… yeah I understand what y’all are getting at in your tumblr posts. (Fr though, their friendship was so sweet. D-16’s betrayal really did hurt. And it’s been a while since I’ve seen such a well done relationship like that in the media. They’re just two silly lads who genuinely cared about one another and yet got driven apart by vengeance.)

Every single time Bee said “Badassatron” I’m sobbing— He’s such a goober. Bumblebee was always my favorite as a kid, so I have a soft spot for him (even if Orion and D16 were my favorites in this film). “KNIFE HANDS” he’s a safety hazard. (Also him being slightly insane and making inanimate objects his friends to talk to and being self-aware that they’re fake— I AM STEVE?!)

Sentinel essentially saying “Nu-uh” to D-16 when he was rambling about his plans.

Why did they keep saying miner? 😭

Starscream is such a neeerddd per usual. Dang he’s simping for Megatron (I’m kidding y’all, I miss poking fun at the silly plane man)

Trion basically adopted these tiny 4 robots and yes it is canon 💯 (Bro shouldn’t have died, I wanted silly dad shenanigans 😭)

Orion- “Hey Darkwing, my finger can transform”. Meanwhile D16: *knocks Orion the heck out and then proceeds to get punched by Darkwing* My favorite part of the movie ngl

I am very Bumblebee core tbh. He’s just a silly little guy. A silly guy with knife hands.

Bee saying his dream was to work for the government had the theater and I howling (this was a very fun theater experience actually, loved the vibes)

The boys are just casually scared of Elita. Girlboss 💅 (Also I love that her and Arachnid had a fight. I vaguely remember them having a fight/maybe rivalry? In Transformers Prime. Speaking of which, I need to rewatch that. Its been years and I never finished it)

I’m sorry but the whole “Starscream” namesake and then D-16 damaging his vocal cords is obvious irony but still. Nice touch.

”Why did you gag him?” “He wouldn’t stop talking.” “Even when he was unconscious?” “ESPECIALLY WHEN HE WAS UNCONSCIOUS!” Bee’s certified yapper moment

Orion’s whole arc and relationship with D-16 is sad when you pair it with how they are in other iterations. Like, the reason Orion/Optimus would’ve been a stickler for the rules and order was because he was afraid of losing someone again like he lost D-16. (I can’t remember if their backstory is the same all across the board, its been a while since I brushed up on transformers stuff)

The animation was genuinely very pretty. I love the little magic sand particles and the way Megatron’s eyes have a glow trail as specific examples.

The child in me kept kicking my legs and screaming at the references. The mask! Roll out! When D got his signature arm gun I internally lost it. And Chris Hemsworth’s voice at the end of the film was a really really good Optimus voice.

“Is it… getting closer?” Meanwhile Bee: *running away for his life* (both him and Orion running at the start of the film absolutely took me out)

Okay I might do a follow up to this tomorrow, it’s late and I have work in the morning. I’ll think on some more things I want to add as well as some headcanons! Stay tuned!

[crystaldivination]

𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐈𝐑 𝐇𝐈𝐃𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐅𝐄𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐘𝐎𝐔

‹ 𝑃𝑖𝑐𝑘 𝑎 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑑 › ♥︎ 𝑂ℎ… 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑦𝑜𝑢

⤷ Valentine’s special ⁀➷ ⤶

Hello beautiful souls ♡︎ it’s been a while. I’ve planned to go after my pick a card schedule but since it’s Valentines’ Day 💌💘 I decided to squeeze this in between. For those who have already found their other half I wish you a happy Valentine’s Day. Make romantic and beautiful memories with your lover. As for my single souls who is looking and waiting for love especially on this day, don’t worry because there is someone waiting somewhere out there for you already. When the time is right they’ll show up. For now we can find other way to celebrate love that doesn’t involve romance right? I hope you get to spend time with your loved ones on this day and do something fun. Have a beautiful time for yourselves. You deserve it ❣︎

That to be said, I hope to provide you with some lovely messages from the person of your mind or anyone who is thinking about you with this intuitive pick a card reading. In this reading we will be looking at who is secretly having feelings for you and how they feel about you. Check out the 2nd part of this Valentine’s edition here.

⭒ masterlist • paid services • tip me

How to choose a pile? Take a few deep breaths ＆ look at each piles separately. Trust your intuition to pick your pile.

The piles ┊

left ➜ right

Disclaimer ┊this is a general reading which may or may not resonate with you. Take what resonates and leave out anything that doesn’t. Feel free to choose another pile if you'd like.

𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝟏

"Oh tell me if there is anyone like her. No, there is no one like her."

This person might be someone you know or someone near your orbit. They seem to believe there is a connection between you both right before seeing or meeting you. Love at first sight. They feel something unexplainable when it comes to you. They find you captivating and attractive, not to be said, very intelligent. In their eyes you embody the person of both beauty and brain. You actually are. They are very romantic and a dreamer. They’d want you to notice them if you haven’t already. For some I guess this might be a crush who is too shy to approach you and just like to observe you from afar. They like to fantasize about you and how it’d be like if you guys were together. I heard the word "each other’s" so they might be slightly possessive or just want you guys to belong to each other. It doesn’t seem to be toxic. I just feel like they’d want a love that’s like a fairytale. They have a heart of an artist. You could even be their muse. Their source of inspiration. You literally inspire them everyday. I heard something along the line "You are so beautiful and smart that I could write a million unique poems for you". Aww pile 1 they are so sweet. It’s a shame that they’re keeping it to themself. If they could only show it to you just like how they’re willing to tell me this… I’m also getting that you occupy their mind 24/7. Sometimes you could be popping up out of nowhere and they might even see hallucinations of you in front of them. Omg. They’re that in love with you. I’d even say you are one of the rare people that they admire every bit of. They really want to cherish you with all their heart because they believe you deserve every of it. You’re so kind and just a dream person for them. They’re putting you on the pedestal fr. They wouldn’t want to come out of their dream any soon but they do know that it’s not the reality so that’s kinda sad. If they could be yours they’d want to provide and cater you with love and everything you need. Your desires are theirs to fulfill. They’d want the best out of the best for you. They really seem like a giver.

Some hints to know who they are:

Masculine energy, books, glasses, tall and brown haired, casual looks, notebook with a pen, twirl pen, might like to rest on a bench, connected to nature

The song matches the vibe of this connection from their pov ⭒۟ ׁ

Especially this part ⌵

{It's you, it's you, it's all for you}

{Everything I do}

{I tell you all the time}

{Heaven is a place on earth with you}

𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝟐

"They got me thinking about them"

This is a little bit confusing to me because the person I’m getting for this pile seems to be…how could I say…a little bit out of their mind? Maybe they’re quite oblivious in general or they don’t really care about most things. They aren’t the type to chase the high or hang out in groups to be part of something. They prefer to not be influenced by anyone and to be on their own. Not a loner or anything, they just don’t need other people or stimulations to function well or to build confidence. To them those things seem a little "superficial". They know what they enjoy and who they value so they only keep the minimum of what’s important to them and who they want to be surrounded with. Despite that they’re actually quite warm on the inside and do seek sincere connections. They usually appear detached or try to portray a cold demeanor, sometimes out of this un-/disinterest but also to shy away other people from approaching or getting to close to them. This might stem from their past but then YOU came into the picture.

You might be quite the opposite of that person. You’re social, open and friendly. You might make friends easily. For some reason I’m getting that they might be a new person for you. You guys might've met at school/courses or at some sort of work related places. You might even be a transfer student/worker etc. The first moment they saw you they don’t seem to be interested at all like their usual self but you on the contrary are always curious to meet and get to know new people which led you to approach them first. Tbh your first impression of each other wasn’t really great. They might’ve been quite sassy or even "rude" to you but something might’ve happened later on and I’m getting that it was you who showed kindness to them which made them open up to you more. Over times you guys got more comfortable with each other and seem to be quite close. They didn’t seem to even realize their feelings for you at first but they do noticed a feeling being evoked in them by you. Every time you’re near them or with every encounter with you they feel a shift. You might have recalled a feeling that was familiar to them but it seems like it’s a feeling that has been forgotten for so long that they themself might not even remember what it was. Because it feels so easy and natural with you, all they suspect was them being out of their mind or that something is wrong with them. They noticed that their heart beats faster lately whenever they’re around you, they think more often about you and every symptom one gets when being in love. They slowly realize your effect on them. I heard "Is that her…is she the one who’s making me feel this type of way?". Their close friends might’ve pointed it out to them how they have changed. They could be more lively and their behavior are much more out there. Again I heard "They changed me…?" They start to notice and pay attention to their surrounding more but mostly to catch YOU, to be exact to get your attention.

Some hints to know who they are:

Detached, appear cold and un-/disinterested, athletic style, animal lover, likes to watch birds and the sunset, analytical, great at debates, quite funny or humorous, would like to tease you for fun or to get a reaction out of you

The song matches the epiphany and how their feelings develop ⭒۟ ׁ

Especially this part ⌵

{When you're with me}

{Be honest}

{Let's just be honest}

{You got me in my feelings} …

{Never understood what it feels like}

{Like the way that you're turning me 'round}

Ps. For this pile I felt like I should give some background information since it’s a new person so that’s why it’s a little longer than the other two piles.

𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝟑

"Oh heaven please send me to her"

Pile 3, I feel like this person's heart is aching for you. It longs for you but not in a selfish way but more in a protective way. You might have gotten out of a relationship recently or broke up with someone and then heading into a new relationship maybe to ease the pain or to forget about the earlier one, either way there seems to be a third party going on. This person just want to take you in their arm and hold you until you feel okay again. They think they could be so much better than that person who’s hurt or disappointed you. They can treat you better than that. They want you to notice them because you don’t deserve that kind of connections. You should have someone by your side who cares about you, who is there for you and who will always stick with you until the end. Not half hearted or not just for a while. They are tired to see you fall down over and over again searching for the love that you need. They know that all you want and need is someone who can carefully hold your heart and held it dearly without letting it fall when it feels too heavy. That heart will loyally and obediently beat for the one who is willing to mend it. It might take a while but it’s always ready to sacrifice for you. They know all this but they’re angry and frustrated with how you could let yourself feel so worthless just for the sake of love. They just want to run to you and protect you from anyone and any danger that could harm you in anyway. You deserve so much. They are sure of it and if they could they will make sure you get all that. Pile 3, I feel so emotional rn. My heart literally pains a bit. They are really determined to get what they want for you. I’m shaking 😳. Don’t you know who I am talking about? But I feel like they can’t show themself to you rn. There might be hindrance or a distance between you guys which makes it hard for them to get to you. BUT know that they’re watching you, helping you indirectly by sending you positive energy, they really wish for you to be safe and to align with your inner self before anything. They think you’re a little out of balance and drained. Take care of yourself and try to recover first. They want you to know that you should be able to prioritize yourself, do the things you didn’t get to do before. I heard "you can love and be in love with yourself, right?". That’s so thoughtful of them, pile 3. They really care about you and your well-being. And once you’re fully yourself again, they might dare to come closer to you. This seems like a great person, don’t you think pile 3? I don’t get who they are but based on the information I guess it might be someone who is aware of you and knows a lot about you. Could be a one sided crush as well.

Some hints to know who they are:

Muscular body, feels powerless, heart ache, would fight for you, phone, take walks to ease mind, fitness studio, look a little like a "player" but is mindful, might have siblings, quite responsible, a little impulsive but knows how to hold back

The whole song matches their frustration and protectiveness over you ⭒۟ ׁ

Especially this part ⌵

{I know I can treat you better than he can}

{And any girl like you deserves a gentleman}

{Tell me, why are we wasting time}

{On all your wasted crying}

{When you should be with me instead?} …

{I'll stop time for you}

{The second you say you'd like me too}

© 2023 crystaldivination ── all rights reserved. do not copy, translate, edit, alter, or redistribute my work. Plagiarism in any form is prohibited.

I hope you enjoyed it! Likes, reblogs and follows are highly appreciated! I’d love to have some feedbacks as well! Thank you ・❥・

◛⑅·˚ Remember. You’re loved!

[lynn-vdg]

HALLO!!! Im Reading the jjk manga right now so just checking in because it has invaded my brain and rraaaaaaaah jjk jjk jjk… 😭 I BLAME U FOR THIS (I love jjk)

First of all, I LOVE THAT LAWYER SORCERER, he seems genuinely cool and he just reminds me of ace attorney tbh, Edgeworth if he was a jjk character FOR REAL

And this panel is also SO CUTE ONG.. YOU WERE RIGHT YES I AGREE WITH THE FACT THAT CHOSO IS THE BEST. Yuji deserves his brothers for realsies, THEY ARE BOTH AWESOME. And I keep seeing stuff saying how Todo VS Choso would go down, but I kinda think Todo would respect Choso (and ask for his workout routine MAHAHAH)

I’m even starting to get MY FRIENDS to watch it. DeterminedFanartist, aka my pookie 4evahs, IS ALSO WATCHING IT RIGHT NOW!!! My irl bruh called Choso “Cheese” and they ALL SIMP OVER GOJO. EVERY SINGLE ONE OF MY IRLS SIMP OVER GOJO IT IS CRAAZZZYY…

Maki’s power up WAS DESERVED and oh mah lord… I’m on chapter 202 AND KENJAKU WAS MANIPULATING MAH AMERICAN GOVERNMENT IS KENJAKU 2024 REAL?!?!! 🤩🤩🤩🤩 He’d be my president 🫡🫡🫡🇺🇸🇺🇸🏈🏈🏈🌎🌎🔫🔫🔫💪💪💪

About to read chapter 203 and… no… wtf like IT IS ALREADY STARTING OFF LIKE THIS. A “you will die” IN ANY MANGA THAT ISN’T STATED TO THE MAIN CHARACTER IS NOT GOOD NEWS…

Praying… praying right now I know EVERYONE is dying in this series but pllleaaseee GEGE LET ME HAVE THIS ONE THING PLEASE PLEASE DON’T TAKE HIIIMMMM PLEASE NO NO NO PPPLLEAASEEE 💔💔💔😭😭😭😭😭💔🥺🥺🥺😢😔😔😱😱😢😢😔😔😔😔

Anyways you weren’t lying when you said you were in your inactive arc, hoping you join me back soon DON’T LEAVE ME HERE MICHAEL MICHAEEEEEEELLLL 🔥🔥🔥🔥

I AM ALWAYS RIGHT! MY TASTE IN MEN IS IMPECCABLE! 😈 And yeah you��re SO RIGHT I fucking LOVE Higuruma (Miles edgeworth looking ass.) I don’t know how Gege always cooks so hard when it comes to characters 😩, Yuji’s and Choso’s relationship especially, HE’S THE COOK WHO COOKED UP OTHER COOKS 🙏 And i’m glad my jjk brainrot virus is spreading throughout the utmv/utc or whatever the flippio you call it at this point-

Also my fucking GOAT Maki out here destroying those dumbass sexists is absolute GIRL. BOSS. BEHAVIOR.

Ya better read up, cause in 3 weeks JJK ENDS. actually crazy but it’s true 😭 I miss it already….

Also, another suggestion, if you haven’t watched or read it is Jojo’s bizarre adventure 🤑, outside of part 1 which I dislike and part 3 which was boooooring, part 4 onwards is absolute peak, ESPECIALLY part 7 and 8 (sadly no anime for those yet 😔)

As for my inactive arc, i’ll try to revive more often, because i’ve actually just straight up been DEAD outside of looking at some random notifications I got, ALSO WHAT RLLY PISSES ME OFF IS WHEN I GET A NOTIFICATION ABOUT A SPECIFIC POST AND I CLICK ON IT AND IT JUST TAKES ME TO MY FEED, Like bitch I came to look at a specific post not search up that specific account and go through their posts 😭

As for why i’ve been dead eeehhh it’s mostly just I forgot a bit about Tumblr and started using Discord a whole lot more, not to mention i’m working on utc games 🤑 (Oh fuck, i’m in the money! I love money 🤑)

Now, my final question before I dump my doodles on you…

“Are you brainrotted because you’re 3dogbones, or are you 3dogbones because you’re brainrotted.”

I would post more doodles but there’s a 10 image limit 😭

[ghuleh-recs]

It's @iamthecomet's birthday!!! Comet is easily one of my favorite ghoul writers and in honor of her birthday I threw together a list of some of my all-time favorites of hers. I am not exaggerating when I say that I have enjoyed every. single. thing. Comet has written. On top of being an incredible writer, she is a DELIGHTFUL human being. She is SO ridiculously kind and quick to offer advice or support to whichever anon might be dropping into her inbox that day. We are beyond lucky to have such a talented, beautiful soul in this fandom. So go forth, treat yourself to some Comet fics, and leave some comments and kudos as a lil' bday treat ♡

recs under the cut.

Born Under a Troubled Sign - Aether x Dewdrop - 40.7k

Dewdrop goes from water to fire. It goes about as well as can be expected. *THE DEWDROP ANGST FIC OF ALL TIME. I will never stop recommending this and I am not sorry.

Dance With Me - Aeon x Swiss - 1.1k

“Dance?” Swiss rolls his eyes and curls his hand around Aeon’s forearm. He’s so warm. That’s the one thing about Swiss that stays constant even with the glamor. The heat of him. Aeon moves closer like a moth drawn to a flame, and Swiss abandons his grip on Aeon’s arm in favor of one around his waist. “Yeah,” Swiss whispers, leaning in to drag his nose up the side of Aeon’s neck. Inhaling sharply as he noses against his hairline. “That’s what I said.” “There’s no music?”

Tear Me Down - Dewdrop x Rain - 7.7k

Dew can't handle a bad day productively. Rain makes him handle it his way. They make some noise. They're probably never going to be allowed at this hotel again. “Yeah, yeah,” Dew says dismissively. Stroking from root to tip, watching the way Rain is leaking already. Like always. Wet from start to finish. “Can’t believe you’re still mouthing off.” Dew shrugs, watching Rain fill out in his hand, twisting his fist around the head, pressing his fingers to the underside. Rain’s flushed and shiny already. Each stroke makes his stomach clench. “You haven’t really given me a reason to stop.”

Comet's Ficlet Collection (Ch. 154) - Aeon x Dewdrop - 1k

Prompt: i will offer you my firstborn child for a new ghoul focused fic about him being praised about insecurities. i find comfort in my favs having the same issues as me, so the idea of him not really liking his body but being praised for it is just so good to me

Comet's Ficlet Collection (Ch. 16) - Aether x Cumulus x Dewdrop x Sunshine x Swiss - 1k

Could I request something with similar appreciation for a larger body for Cumulus? Any partner or multiple partners are fine. I crave some fat body appreciation and love on a soul level, I adore her so much and she deserves every inch of her beautiful plush figure to be lavished with attention and devotion.

Dewdrop & Sunshine are Chaos Incarnate - Dewdrop & Sunshine - <;1k

Prompt: I neeeeeeed chaos twins Dew and Sunshine gettin in trouble with Mountain and Ifrit

Fill Your Lungs With Words - Aether x Dewdrop - 4.8k

He loves Dew when he’s two seconds away from self-immolation. Loves him when he’s badgering Mountain into letting him in the kitchen—which is always a bad decision. He loves him when he’s high and pliant, loves him when he falls asleep on Aether’s chest, a gentle purr rolling through his body. Aether’s fucking in love with him. This wasn’t supposed to happen.

Let Me Decide What You Need - Mountain x Swiss x Rain - 8.6k

Rain and Swiss take Mountain down to studs. It's surprisingly easy.

Perfect Fit - Aeon x Cumulus - 1.2k

Cumulus tries on her old uniform. Aeon gets an eyeful. Can't really blame him for what happens next.

Comet's Mushy May Collection (Ch. 10) - Aether x Everyone (kinda) - 1k

Unspoken I love you / First I love you Love is an easy thing with them. The pack is full of it. Casual I love yous thrown over shoulders. The press of thumbs over knuckles, the slide of fingers together. They all fit together. Bonded by experience, by undeniable kinship. Aether feels it. Feels the swell of love, the burn of it in his chest. And he thinks about saying it back when Cumulus calls it to him. Thinks about whispering it in Dew’s ear when they’re curled up together. Thinks about letting those words fall off of his tongue again. It’s been…he could pretend he doesn’t know. He could just say it’s been a while. It’s been almost a year. He can pretend that he doesn’t know this down to the day—the minute almost. *this one hurts. you have been warned.

It's No Fun 'Til Someone Dies (series) - murder ghouls - 10k

Dew doesn’t understand how they haven’t figured it out yet. Humanity's persistence, its blindness will be its downfall. He’s in awe of the way they continue to insist to themselves that it’s normal for multiple people a month to just—vanish. To “go home” without taking any of their stuff. To flee in the middle of the night. Or fall from balconies, or down the stairs, or drown. That they haven’t figured out that the unlucky few are fodder for the machine that is the Ghost Project. Food, literally, for the hell-spawn that drives it forward. They spend their days looking at the Ghouls like they are something to be attained. A prize to win. Dew is happy to encourage it. To let them walk right into the trap. He runs his teeth over his fangs. He can still taste the blood.

* Okay I need to stop myself because I could keep going indefinitely.

𖤐 you know the drill--bookmark, read, and leave kudos/comments!

[fictionalcreator]

…okay i was convinced to read The Greatest Estate Developer and i have THOUGHTS and FEELINGS about it!! Only it’s 6 am and I haven’t slept in like 2 days because Gotta Read Story so not all of them are coherent

First and foremost (not really but for the bit) ORV has already established that the optimal throuple is a Weird Man, his aggressive but protective boyfriend, and an equally Weird Lady. We have Javier and Queen Alicia, both of whom have a deep trust and even respect for our resident Weird Man. Javier has been by his side constantly, watching him change and grow, has seen past his facades, pledging to lay down his life for him, and even learned to take a page from his book. Alicia intuitively understands him better than anyone else, is eager to see him thriving, owes him her life several times over, and is totally DTF. We are set. Also Relatively Normal Lady Siluria is there in the background (but she could be much more)

Also, Javier learned to do a Lloyd!! I’m so proud of my boy! And even as he’s doing it, he’s doing it with a base of absolute sincerity. Truly taking after his Lord in every way, from how they villainously spared people’s lives, extracted compensation from the wealthy, and improved people’s living conditions…in the end, even while acting villainous, all Javier really did was…ask the Heavens to not undo all their hard work and help save the life of his closest friend. He just did it without groveling and owing them a favor.

The same way that, in the end, Lloyd ended up saving a lot of people, even setting them on a better course in life, all while saying “this doesn’t make me a hero, because I only did it for selfish reasons.” Aaaand those reasons are (checks notes) living a life of peace, comfort, and happiness, surrounded by his thriving loved ones in a beautiful city that he personally helped to flourish. He didn’t even imagine fucking off to travel the world or anything! In his wildest fantasies he’s still managing a few things here and there! Javier was right, he has a poor man’s vision of being rich.

Honey…you talk big about aspiring to be a “rich bum” but you don’t even realize how quaint of a dream that really is…work until you save up enough for retirement is. Like. Normal. That’s just a normal thing to do. So what if you want to retire early? You don’t need to work ‘til you’re dead. You’re a nobleman in a feudal society. Not to mention, by this point (ch 167 of the webcomic) you’re put yourself through enough that you more than deserve it. Literally no one (except the Queen and perhaps Javier) would raise a single complaint about it. They’d just give you their well-wishes, saying “makes sense. He’s already done 100 years of work within 10. Lord Lloyd has done enough for us already. We’ll handle things from here.” (Though, at this point, I feel like Javier would appreciate the idea of Lloyd not facing any more life-threatening dangers, he would also be suspicious that Lloyd would end up getting himself into trouble anyway)

It’s just…god…self-sacrificing protagonists who convince themselves that they’re a fundamentally bad person for Wanting Things and handling their affairs in underhanded ways really get to me, especially when their first instinct is to be underhanded precisely because they were burned when they tried to be upright before.

And then the scene with the Jewel of Truth oooohhhhjjjkkh

He received a vision of doom from one of endings, heard from the legendary Dragon King (who apparently knows more about the world then anyone could have guessed) that this things would have his answer, LITERALLY went to Hell and back just to obtain the pieces to BUILD the damn thing, has to fight a whole-ass Angel just to finish it, and when, at long last, it’s completed, what does it say??

“Either you or your best friend have to die. No other way.”

God. It might as well have said “kys lmao”. I can see why he went into shock. All that, and he wasn’t even looking to be done and over with it, he was just looking for a way forward, something he could actually do, anything! And that bastard hunk of rock said “the way forward does not exist.” Just. God. Makes me kind of angry just thinking about it. The fact that THAT was the result of ALL of that effort. The moment Javier hears what that damn rock said it is going to be smashed to smithereens.

‘Cause he’ll make the connection. You know he will. He’s smart enough for that. He’ll hear what the damn rock said and go “ah. So Master Lloyd was preparing to resign himself to death.” And after he smashes the rock he is going to be ROYALLY pissed that Suho would even THINK about harming himself.

And then they’re probably gonna have to stop Javier from making good on his promise to lay down his life for that guy…ugh…they care about each other…

I saw that look of panic when Lloyd thought Javier had vanished for a split second, and we just saw how Javier will take matters (even outside of fights) into his own hands if it means protecting Lloyd. They just…they’re the only ones they can show their true faces to. Javier can be both sharp-tongued and sincere, Lloyd can be both scheming and sincere…heck, not even Queen Alicia has had the chance to see Lloyd actually cry. They care so much…

…to be honest I wanna see one of the “bad endings” be Javier (and Alicia) absolutely fucking shit up because someone killed Lloyd…like…do you know how much you mean to them???

(At least it looks like he’s starting to understand)

Ooohhh I have so many Thoughts and Feelings…

[burning-academia-if]

Okay, so, I'll send a proper character reaction ask this time!

You may have seen that before, but it seems every IF blog gets that one ask about how would the ROs react, in relationship (but usually early on), if they see a hickey on MC's neck. And every single time that ask comes in, my fluff loving heart has to send a follow up in which I then ask - "but what if, after that hickey stuff, the RO learned (from the MC or otherwise, probably by accident) that this is not a hickey at all, but a mosquito bite to which the MC had some sort of allergic or otherwise strong reaction, which made it look as big and red?"

So this time I thought... why not just ask the whole thing all at once and be done with it? So like, the actual question: "In relationship, how do the ROs react when seeing a hickey on MC's neck... and how do they react when they later learn this was not a hickey but an insect bite (which also means if they didn't outright comment on it, the MC must have been very confused if they reacted badly)?"

PS: feel free to ignore it if it's too long or annoying to answer! Like I said, usually someone else sends the hickey ask, and I send the follow up. But well, if you feel like it, I'd be very curious!

Thanks and have a great day!

"Hickie" + It's just a bite.

Rook:

For the past ten minutes, he’s been staring at your neck. Or rather, trying his best not to. His thoughts are racing and you haven’t noticed as the two of you walk to a nearby place to grab lunch. Your hands are twined together, and you’ve been talking about classes and work and he thinks he’s been responding.

Inside his head, is a symphony of thoughts. He’s marathoned the five stages of grief already. Currently he rests in the center of ‘acceptance’ and ‘grief.’ Mostly, he’s teetering over the edge into a downward spiral of examining himself.

Rook has always been able to see you with anyone else besides him. Still, the fact you somehow still existed in the same space as him for so long, only because the stars kept aligning in his favor, has been one he’s taken for granted.

There are plenty of things he hasn’t been able to give you, and there’s a strangely complicated history spanning between you two, like a stretch of highway flooded to the ankles after rain. It’s why the mere act of you being here, besides him, is all he can ask for.

If you need someone else, he isn’t going to stop you. The fact your beside him at all is enough of a miracle, and he won’t complain even if it makes his heart break. It’s nothing short of what he deserves.

“You’re quieter than usual.” You comment at some point, and he blinks himself back to reality.

“Sorry. Tired. Stayed up too late last night.”

“You stay up late every night.”

“Well, there you go!” He grins and you only raise a brow at him, but mercifully, comment no further. He has to focus, to slip the mask back on. To keep himself steady.

As you both near the place you’d agreed to eat, you tug on his hand, “Wait, can we stop at the corner store real quick?”

“Oh yeah, did you need something.”

You motion towards your neck, directly at the mark Rook has been trying so hard to ignore, “I need to get some hydrocortisone cream for this bite, it’s been bothering me all day.”

He blinks once, then twice. For once, he’s almost at a loss for words, “Oh.”

“…? Is something wrong?”

“No, I just didn’t realize bites could get that bad.” He covers, quickly. You stare at him and he stares back, all previous thoughts wiped from his mind. He had not been starting to think you were better off without him, nor were his thoughts wandering to how much happier you’d be with anyone else.

He eases his expression into a smile, and you only shrug, “If you say so.”

The thick feeling in his throat never quite leaves.

Beck:

Beck is recounting every face of every person he’s ever seen you interact with. Every person you were just a little too close with, or anyone whose every expressed any interest in you.

He’d spotted you earlier, and in any other case he’d have gone to you and try to squeeze in a few minutes of time together before he had to attend class. Instead, he’d seen you rub at your neck and caught the red mark on your neck. Everything had gone blank, and he’d left before you’d seen him.

Now, his thoughts are scattered in every direction. Beck reads people, and he’s good at it. It’s why this is all hard to wrap his head around. There hadn’t been any change in your demeanor or how you acted around him. If he searches through his memories, he really can’t think of any signs. Or maybe he’s lying to himself.

His fingers keep tapping against the counter as he gazes at nothing. His actions had been so annoyingly constant, Rook had snapped at him to stop brooding in the main. With Beck’s mild response, and clear intention of not doing so, he’d left.

It’s why when the door opens now, later, he expects it to just be him coming back. When he turns and sees you, his spinning thoughts once more freeze. He isn’t ready to see you.

“Hi,” you give a small smile, “Rook told me something was wrong.”

“Oh,” He lets his eyes close, trying to decide how to go about this, “Sorry.”

You take the seat next to him, and he can’t bring himself to look at you. There is only concern in your voice, and he can’t understand how you could have cheated on him and still be so full of affection, “What happened? It’s rare to see you like this.”

“Well, I…” It’s also rare for him to not know what to say. He steels himself, sets his jaw and turns to fully face you. It’s when he does this that he sees a newly acquired bandage on your neck. He falters once more, “A band aid?”

You reach up, looking like you’d even forgotten it’s there, “Oh, yeah. Don’t worry about it, I just got bit. But what’s wrong with you—”

He breaths out a laugh as his head falls and his forehead rests on your shoulder. You stiffen for a moment, before you carefully run a hand through his hair. A bite, of course. It’s the only thing that makes sense. Why didn’t he think of that?

“I’m fine,” he says, and you shift a little as his breath fans across your skin, “Especially now that you’re here.”

You look like you want to say more, but he stops it with a feather light kiss. And another, and another. His relief is palpable, and despite your confusion, you kiss him back, fingers gently combing through his hair in comfort.

Rhea:

You’re already in the student government room, bent over paperwork you promised earlier to help out with. Rhea almost smiles at the sight, eyes going soft. You’re pretty much an honorary member of the SGA at this point.

“Good morning.” She says letting the door shut behind her. “You’re early today.”

“So are you.” You sit up straight, sending her a smile. The movement allows her to see your neck, and it’s like the breath was stolen from her. There, on your neck, is an angry red mark. Her eyes narrow as they zero in on it and you, sensing the clear change in demeanor, shift. “Is something wrong?”

It isn’t like this would be the first time, she thinks, as her insides turn. There have always been people who got close to her solely because of her position and not because they actually cared about her. She’s been cheated on before, but it does not stop the knife from digging in deep.

Even if she didn’t think you were capable of it, it isn’t like she’s judged someone wrong before, “If you’ve already grown bored of me, you merely need to tell me.”

You rise, eyebrows knitting together, “I’m not sure what you mean?”

“I think the evidence on your neck is clear enough.” She can feel the burn in her throat, but she doesn’t cry. She retains her mask as well as she can and turns away as you go shell-shocked.

“Wait, you mean my bug bite?” She freezes before turning back to you. You step closer, allowing her a better view of the mark. Now, right in front of her, she can see the bump in the center of the angry red skin, a clear indication it is, in fact, a bite. “It looks pretty bad, right?”

Her face flushes red, and she rushes her words, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean…”

“With how bad it looks, I can understand the confusion.”

“Still, I immediately jumped to conclusions and judged the worst of your character. That isn’t any way to start a relationship.” She takes a breath, and tries to steady herself and the flood of old memories that had overtaken her. “I’ll do my best not to jump to conclusions next time.”

Despite how the accusation must have rattled you, you merely take her hand when she offers it and give it a small squeeze. Her heart’s still racing and there is still a buzz running down her skin, but at least she’s assured that it was nothing.

Zoe:

You pause, tilting your head at them, “Is something wrong?”

“That mark—on your neck—”

“Hm? Oh, yeah, something bit me. It’s been itching really bad and I think I irritated it more.” You laugh, your hand moving towards it before stopping yourself at the last second.

Zoe has never felt such a strong mix of both relief and stupidity, “

Lars:

Your eyes are wide and his are cold as he cages you between the table and his body. His jaw is set, pupils dilated, and he wears the threat like a favorite cloak. You search his expression, and he thinks you have a lot of nerve.

“What’s…what’s wrong?”

“I think that should be obvious.” His voice is low, and he knows it best to leave. To turn his back and never look back. But the way you approached him, as if the hickey on your neck wasn’t so obvious, had made him see red.

His fingers coast up your arm, and you swallow hard, “I really don’t know. And this is…a lot. Even for you.”

“Is it?” He stops, hovering just beneath the mark. The fact it came from someone else, someone he doesn’t know, sets his teeth on edge. He doesn’t want to feel this. He’d rather just sleep and not have to deal with the presence of reality. His hand rises, and presses against the mark.

You let out a hiss, “Ow, hey, be careful. That bite really hurts.”

He goes still, his touch easing almost instantly, “Bite?”

“Yeah? There’s no way you didn’t notice…” your voice trails off and you eye him, “You didn’t think it was a bite, did you?”

As the initial rage ebbs away, he takes another look at it again. There isn’t the normal bruising of a hickey, and it is only the red of irritation. His hand slips behind your neck, pressing you even closer, “Maybe I didn’t.”

His head dips down and you let out a small gasp as his lips press against your skin on the opposite side, “Lars—”

“But this one will be.” And his teeth sink down.

???:

You return to your dorm, and you catch the faint, almost translucent figure of The Voice. They’re resting on the couch, which can’t be a comfortable place to sleep. Hesitant, as though they’ll fade away again, you brush a hand across their face and feel the cold.

Their eyes open and you smile at them, “Good morning.”

“Oh, MC…” Their voice trails off as they seem to catch on something. A flicker of something crosses their expression, and they move away from your hand.

You pause, “Is something wrong?”

Instead of a response, they reach out and press their forehead against yours. Again, you feel their presence wrap around you, inside, as though you were both back in the old days of when you two had become bound.

You let them, if only because the stillness that has over taken them is one you know well, although it’s never been directed at you. It’s obvious when they find what they need because they give a soft sight and pull away.

The warmth is back in their eyes, “You can’t leave a bite so severe untreated, my love. What if it gets infected?”

“Is that what bothered you?” They press a kiss against your cheek before they pull away. “Come, let’s disinfect it. I don’t wish it to get worse.”

They pull you up, and lead you towards the bathroom. The strength in their grip tells you that they’re still rattled by something, but you’re not sure what. You know if you question it, they won’t say, so you merely sit on the counter and let do what they wish, watching as their demeanor slowly unwinds.

[sysmedsaresexist]

Mod Quill with some feelings tonight as I scroll the syscourse tags in the usual pits of despair with a bag of popcorn and too little free time. As always, that show I sometimes stumble upon and leave running in the background while I do laundry is on, 24/7 it seems like. The TV station really loves running that particular producer’s re-runs.

I watch for a little bit, but the main character is just… painful to watch. She constantly pushes people away in some sort of way to get her goals each episode — but the series has never ended. It just is the same exact plot line each episode. It gets spicy sometimes when there’s a recurring plot line, or a story arc. They’re all a little… circular sometimes though. She gets sassy too, but that’s few and far between nowadays.

This latest arc, she’s clearly blue.

…

Okay so now that I’ve rambled enough on this metaphor about Sophie-

Her latest bait for trying to hurt a clearly traumatized person is just as painful to see as it always is. Just... god forbid she do something to actually further plural acceptance. I find it so ironic how she peddles that goal to her followers — The Future is Plural, right? — while consistently and actively working against it. She consistently tries to bait people who are against her in an attempt to prop herself up higher, never realizing that all the outside world is seeing is her stomping on others. 

Blue-Bubonic is very clearly fragile, at least in my eyes. I haven’t forgotten their (pronouns unsure, but please feel free to correct me) first foray into syscourse. And yet she sees it as more acceptable to continue needling them -- and taunting that fact and touting it as a badge of honor -- in order to... do what? She's said she's painting herself as a villain, she's being the Bad Guy, but genuinely, how is that helping plurals? How is this helping further her goals?

She is quite literally attacking her own with this and further aggravating an already clearly traumatized individual. And she constantly does this. From my perspective, it must almost be fun for her, and if I remember correctly, she's admitted it's fun. She revels in it. I can't condone people who sit and just... soak in other people's misery. I have literally been working on overcoming some doubts of mine today due to harassment I received, simply because I said I thought people deserved better than literal death threats. And here she is, just... spreading negativity for negativity's sake. How is that helping anything? Isn't it just putting more negative into the world?

The worst part is, I agree with her on so many things. I have to restrain myself from reblogging her posts to my real blogs (you’re welcome, SAS, this blog isn’t real anymore, you’re free) simply so I can avoid syscourse there as much as possible. I’m also scared too. I’m scared of her. I’m scared to reblog something, both because her eyes might be on me if I do, and because the entire system community on tumblr that touches tulpamancy with a 5 foot pole is watching too. Every single action I do is not only scrutinized by her; it’s scrutinized by the community.

I just… wish there was a better way to spread positivity. I wish there were more The Plurality Of… posts, ones that aren’t written with the direct correlation of “let’s stick it to those anti-endos!” I would love more plural headcanons with the goal, “let’s uplift all plurals!” I try to do this as much as possible, but I’m one man.

I see her with her 😈 rightful anger (and I do believe she is justified in that anger, please don’t think I am saying she shouldn’t be angry, she has gotten so much shit that was undeserved, something I regret deeply playing any part of in the past, and something I want to apologize for now again)… I see her with that anger, and I just wish there were a way to help. I wish there were a way to turn that negativity away. I’ve managed it! I’ve managed to escape it in little ways. What am I doing that’s so different? It’s not because I’m a DID system and she’s not — lord knows I’ve had my fair share of harassment for my existence. It’s not because we’re different syscourse stances — I’m as pro-endo as they come in everything but label. Hell, shocker of all shockers, I’ve come to accept I have willed-to-life alters, so I can even relate to her way of existence, at least to some degree.

And yet, I feel so different from her. And it’s sad to see someone you agree with, someone who you know is just doing their best, causing so much harm for the things you also believe in.

…

So I turn off the TV. And I try not to watch. But in my head, my stupid writer brain gets the monkeys and the typewriters out. And it goes to town.

In my head, I’ve written a story where I sit down with her. Sometimes it’s discord, sometimes it’s via tumblr asks back and forth, and too often to count it’s some nebulous cafe somewhere where I’m drinking hot chocolate and she’s drinking some sort of white chocolate coffee. Not sure why that’s what I imagine, but it makes sense to me.

And I just… talk to her. Like a person. We set aside syscourse entirely and have a proper sysconversation. We talk about plurality and our feelings about it; we talk about how my disorder impacts me in similar and different ways to her tulpamancy; we even discuss how this very fanfiction-like-dream is, in a way, plural in of itself, because i don’t control what she says, not willingly. I guess she got her dream, an anti-endo (in a way) with a Sophie introject (in a way).

And I laugh, and she laughs, and it’s good.

And then I go online and see the latest callout post about why Sophie is a bad person. And I sigh, because I know they never work, and I personally know how traumatizing it is to have a callout post detailing everything you’ve ever done wrong.

And then I write up this, feeling like a hypocrite. But I want her to know, I’m not trying to paint her as evil. I don’t think she is. I think she’s just… a person, trying her best, and this is me publicly saying I disagree with her methods.

I hope the show reaches a final season soon. Maybe a spinoff series will get made. Crossover episode when? I vote for Sophie Through The Looking Glass as a sequel series name.

[akkrosu]

Thank you, @recentadultburnout, for tagging me and asking for my nine favorite TV shows! I might have gone a little overboard because I haven’t been tagged a lot before, but please indulge me.

This is going to be limited to QLs, if only because I couldn’t think of a single piece of Western (or straight) media I love and/or remember well enough to be able to put on this list. The ones I have chosen are below, in no particular order.

1. The Untamed

This one belongs here both for being a fantastic story and for being the reason I even discovered any of the other series on this list. My entire “obsessed with Asian queer media” thing started all because a friend once told me, “Let me show you what I’ve been watching recently.” What can I say, drunk Lan Zhan got to me.

2. Moonlight Chicken

One of the most beautiful, thought-provoking and mature series I’ve ever seen, QL or otherwise. P’Aof is a genius and I would have to hide in shame if I didn’t have at least one of his works on this list. He created a narrative of six real people trying to figure out life and how to be happy and there is so much strength in every single one of them.

3. Not Me

With at least three watchthroughs one of my most-watched BLs. I mean, OffGun and the social commentary and political action and the queerness of it all and the characters. Ugh, I love this show. Plus, the music and musical editing were phenomenal.

4. Where Your Eyes Linger

Probably my favorite Korean BL ever? Also the KBL to really get me into KBLs, so it already deserves a medal for that (I was missing out on so much). I’m a sucker for good yearning and forbidden relationships, and this series gave me everything I wanted. And, again, the soundtrack. The instrumental of See U playing as Kang Gook storms Tae Joo’s dad’s house lives rent-free in my mind.

5. HIStory 3: Make Our Days Count

Yes, it’s the other HIStory 3, the one everyone ignores because ‘he went out to buy salt’. Look, don’t judge me, I own up to my love for this series. It’s not the show’s fault all anyone ever remembers is the tragic ending. It’s also such a beautiful story about a total dork falling in love with a lonely nerd and defying all odds to be with him. Plus, the best sibling relationship ever. And (spoiler) said dork dying doesn’t invalidate everything else the series tells us. Yes, it was sad, but I can deal with the sadness. And sometimes, the sadness is as much part of a show as it is of life.

6. The Eclipse

This series haunts me to this day. I was obsessed with it, and I still am. Akk is one of my favorite characters ever written, and First portrayed him beautifully. So did Khaotung with Ayan. The sheer existence of P’Golf baffles my mind to this day. These 12 episodes gave me everything I’ve ever wanted.

7. The Eighth Sense

I take back what I said about Where Your Eyes Linger. This is my favorite KBL. I’m not even sure I can explain why. It’s just so honest. And so, so queer. It made me cry so many times, and the storytelling was magnificent. Plus, it’s one of the few full-length KBLs we have.

8. We Best Love

The cups in my profile picture are the ones Yu Zhenxuan and Pei Shouyi drink out of in the flashbacks of the second season, so... yeah.

This was my very first QL that wasn’t a bromance, and so I’m very biased. I’m almost mad at myself for making this my first one, because sometimes it feels like nothing else could ever live up to it. I admit to having a special love for season 1, even though season 2 seems to be the one people talk about a lot more. It’s just perfect, everything about it. Especially Gao Shide’s mom.

9. My School President

What a phenomenal show. I remember how much I was looking forward to Fridays during the time this was airing, and each week it gave me everything I wanted. Gemini and Fourth are fantastic actors, the friend groups made me cry all the time, it’s one of the cutest things I’ve ever seen, and there are some absolute bangers in there, musically speaking. Gun and Tinn will always have a special place in my heart.

Some honorable mentions because it’s really hard to pin down exactly nine:

Never Let Me Go – I spent a lot of time debating whether to put this or MSP in this list because I love them both equally. And because they aired around the same time, they are sort of irrevocably tied together in my mind.

Big Dragon – I loved this significantly more than I ever expected to, and I can’t be impartial about Yai to this day, because I love him with all my heart. This was such a messy, weird, chaotic show, and yet it somehow gave us such beauty and sappy people in love.

Step by Step – It doesn’t get to be on the list because it hasn’t finished airing yet, and so it could still fuck up, but if it keeps going like this, it is definitely going to become one of my favorites. (Same with Be My Favorite, honestly.)

I don’t know many people around here, and certainly not many I wouldn’t feel awkward tagging, but I’ll just be awkward anyway and kindly ask @ellaspore and @biochemjess if they feel up for it. I wanna know! (No pressure, though.)

[wearenotjustnumbers2]

Hello and I hope you are well.

I am a Norwegian-American, and the news in both my countries is filled with what basically amounts no pro-Israel propaganda and I despise it. I hope I don’t come across as ignorant or uneducated, but is there a single reason why the world leaders seem intent to ignore the genocide happening in Palestine? I’ve been reading as much as I can about the situation but I haven’t found a definite answer. (Of course, no “reason” would ever be enough to excuse standing by whilst children and innocents are slaughtered, I just can’t comprehend how anyone with a heart could watch this happen and do nothing.)

My heart weeps for the people of Palestine, and I will do everything that I can from my place in the world to aid you.

🇵🇸 ❤️🇵🇸❤️🇵🇸❤️🇵🇸❤️🇵🇸

Hello, first of all you shouldn't be afraid of coming off as "ignorant" or anything. I said before that my inbox is open for people who are looking for answers that aren't here just to be racist or hateful.

The most definitive answer here would be racism. It's so easy for Israel to share propaganda and get people to believe it, because it's so easy for westerns to fall into the "barbaric violent brown arabs" propaganda over and over. It's become so easy to label someone a terrorist for their ethnicity, it's even easier if they're Muslims. Another thing, Israel paints this as a "war" between religions, it's not. They try to show it as a fight between Judaism and Islam to get people's sympathy. When in fact, Palestine is one of the most diverse countries in the middle east. It has a huge population of Muslims, Christians and guess what? Jews. There are cities in there that are exclusively Christian such as Bethlehem. But the world believes the lies about it being Islam vs Judaism, and that Muslims are out there to kill every Jew and commit violence. Why is that so easily believed? Racism.

And you have to keep in mind that media coverage plays an important main rule in this genocide. If not for media coverage many of people outside the middle east would've never heard about gaza and Palestine. Which is why Israel spends million of dollars on pushing the narrative on social media alone. It was revealed that lots of international influencers were offered thousands of dollars if they announced their support for Israel (which is already the case with many American celebrities).

As for the governments, I will share with you this statement. People don't see genocide or ignore it and avoid admitting the severity of it because they don't see the people experiencing it as human. You have to actually acknowledge that someone deserves to live in order to acknowledge their death. I talked about the dehumanization of Palestinians here so you can know more.

Not to mention the economic situation. Israel has control over so many international companies and brands. When we decided to boycott Israeli products, we were surprised to find almost every brand to be related to israel. Such as McDonald's, Starbucks, Loreal, Pepsi, and so on even things like toothpaste brands. Also israel is in control of gas and oil reserves in palestine, as well as agriculture that Palestinian aren't allowed to have a say or a part in any of those things. For western governments, Israel pays you money, why would you turn against it?

I don't know if I answered your question satisfactorily, I hope you can reach out if you have any more questions or anything you want to know. I would love to be able to help.

Thank you for speaking up against the genocide 🙏

[moonlitempty]

Shaun of the Dead (2004), Dir. Edgar Wright, Starring Simon Pegg, and Nick Frost.

A romantic comedy, with zombies.

For a while now, I have kept movie entries in my personal journal, it feels like a tangible way to commemorate and preserve a movie I feel deserves such attention, and even before I started that habit, I was intimidated by the entries for The Cornetto Trilogy.

All three movies were just so special and influential to me, and physical writing has a tendency to, y’know, get fucked up, so it was a struggle figuring out a way to both preserve my love for these films on my journal, and make it look mildly cute. Safe to say, I think I’ve achieved said balance.

This is the entry for Shaun! I tried to feature a lot of blood splatter/bloodstain motifs, in accordance to the movie obviously, and you might think the b&w colour scheme of the printed images was intentional, but the sad and almost hilarious truth is that it was a limitation! My printer is a laser printer, and those can’t do colours. So I tried to reach a monochromatic style with these entries, where I highlight one single colour that I think is reminiscent of the movie. For Shaun, it was obviously red.

I am not a movie critic (even if I like to think I am), so the personal thoughts section of the entry may come off as shallow or void of detail, I’m sorry about that! But if we’re honest, at this point in time, my love for these films should not be a point of doubt, even if my written thoughts are lax at best.

I remember the first time I actually *heard* of Shaun of the Dead, it was via a kill count video on youtube, and even then I was intrigued by it, all the love and praise I had heard directed towards it was something that drew me in, I didn’t actively search out the movie just yet, I just kept it as a mental memo that I’d get to later.

Then, on one magical night, and by pure fate, I stumbled upon the film on cable TV, I was channel hopping and seeing the title on the screen made my eyes light up, this was my chance to see what all the *fuzz* was about. So I didn’t hesitate and I changed the channel from VH1, to experience the Shauning. My life changed at that instant.

Shaun of the Dead was the most charming and charismatic film I had seen up until that point, I had heard about how flawlessly it was edited and how well every single joke landed, but experiencing said praises in the flesh was phenomenal, and Simon’s role as Shaun was instantly memorable and you could say he was the thing that hooked me in. He was so cynical and snarky, yet caring and loving of the band of misfits he was surrounded by. Though Nick as Ed was also an incredibly charming experience.

I remember just being completely entranced by everything surrounding the film, the movie kept going on and on and I kept finding stuff to love about it. The fact that it was clearly a movie that didn’t take itself too seriously as to be a de facto horror movie, yet it still conveyed emotions in a serious and profound way just really stuck a chord with me, and I’m sure everyone already praises this particular quality, but the quick, snappy and dynamic directing and editing choices characteristic of Edgar Wright are just lovely.

They manage to make the movie feel novel and it hooks you in, without risking making it feel overwhelming and too distracting. And I haven’t even mentioned the score and songs featured in the movie! While the film is perfect on a purely visual standpoint, the accompanying music on every scene elevates the overall feel of the scene you happen to be watching. Whether it be the mundane feeling of Shaun’s daily life, or the dread of the slow realisation that something ain’t quite right in London, or the inspiration and undying will to keep surviving and overcoming.

Frankly, I could go on and on and on about how much I adore this film, about how much it helped me deepen the love I have for filmmaking, and how much it even inspired to purchase filmmaking. But let’s be blunt, you guys probably don’t want to read my ramblings any longer, (but if you do for any reason, do let me know! I love feeling like my opinion matters in any way).

So, Shaun of the Dead! If I could, I’d screen you to any person who even breathes in my direction, I love you so much and I’m sure I’ll rewatch you as soon as I get the TV to myself.

10/10.

[mi55delulu]

can we have a drabble or oneshot where the oc says 'i can't pay for anything* this time' or offers to split the budget 50/50 and jungkook literally😒😤😡🤬 gets mad like I'm your man I'm responsible for you etc🤭hehehhe make me a delululu, I don't have work tomorrow♥️😂

hello sweet anon!!!

unfort i don’t take requests bc my brain is small and i just don’t have the capacity to write anything quick LOL so i don’t wanna disappoint yall … hope you understand 🥺🤍 also it’s my bad for not having said this in an about me bc i didn’t think i’d get any asks/reaccs from my oneshot 🥹 i sound like those people who are like IDK I DIDNT THINK THIS WOULD BLOW UP!! anyways… i’ll put out a lil navi page later. apologies!

BUT! i will live up to my username and indulge in your delulu bc that’s what i am naturally. realistically, mg!jungkook and oc are a 50/50 couple! cuz damn, this economy is wilddddd and oc doesn’t feel right not paying for anything. she works so hard, she wants to pay that forward to herself and her loved ones. within a year of their relationship, they do buy a house together cuz 1. how annoying is it to play neighbor and have to pay two separate rents while you guys do sleepovers almost every single night? granted, they like their own space sometimes and it’s a break from jungkook’s snoring 2. bam deserves a backyard to roam around in 3. no noise complaints 😋

unsurprisingly, it was jungkook who was like “uh, should we move in?” and oc looks around confused bc her place was littered with his stuff (his place is the same with hers) and was like “haven’t we already?????” but oc being oc takes it a step further and suggests they buy a home together bc it’s a good investment for both of them in the long run! smart couple, smart life moves (also bc they hate the ‘landlord specials’ iykyk). yep!