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softguarnere · 2 years ago

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Like A Girl (Like A Man)

Shifty Powers x OFC

Chapter 5: What They Call a Family

Summary: Something about watching Shifty in Clinchco makes Zenie look at him differently. It’s strange, to mix the two worlds. Personally, she doesn’t mind it.

A/N: Whelp, we survived the holiday weekend and tumblr finally allowed me to upload my moodboard. I hope y'all had a good holiday, and if yours was difficult, then I am once again sending you virtual hugs 💕For the curious, the title of this chapter is a reference to the opening line of Santa Fe in the original Newsies movie :)

Warnings: guns, racism, period-typical language in regards to race, mentions of improper chest binding

Taglist: @liebgotts-lovergirl @latibvles @lieutenant-speirs

December, 1942

Despite the distance between the two, Clinchco is not much different from Zenie’s hometown. It’s got a different layout and more diversity. It’s in a different state. The town had a similar experience with the Depression in the thirties. The main source of income for most of the locals is the mining company that the town is named after instead of agriculture like at home. But nothing about it feels foreign. She’s a stranger here and is relying on the hospitality of her friend, and yet, she really does feel as if she’s coming home.

“That’s where I went to school,” Shifty explains as he tours her through the town. “Here’s the church my family goes to – Baptist, like most everyone else around here. I used to shine shoes on this corner. Best business, see, on Saturday afternoons.” Through it all, he saves the best for last. “And that is where I spent most of my free time.”

Clinchco’s woods are beautiful, deep, and cool, just like the ones back home. Even in winter, when most of the trees stand unclothed, their skeletal arms raised toward Heaven in worship, the steady heartbeat of life thrums through the place, giving it a different kind of beauty than the buds and flowers of the warmer months.

Shifty is in his element as he leads her through them, rifle slung over his shoulder and eyes on the branches above them, looking for any squirrels that might come scampering along. He tells her about the things his daddy taught him about listening and being prepared. It shouldn’t come as any sort of shock to Zenie that her friend grew up getting the same education from his father that she got from her grandmother as they foraged in the woods back in North Carolina. But somehow it still brings a kind of comfort – different from any that she’s felt before – to know that someone so similar to her exists, and that they’ve found each other.

Frying Pan really does have the best view, just like Shifty told her it would. Jacket collars pulled up to protect them against the winter wind, they stand at the top and survey the sprawl of mountains and hills and town from the precipice.

“Used to love comin’ up here with my daddy. Just to stand here and listen and try and use what he taught me.” He laughs, shakes his head. “And to flip coins in the air and shoot at ‘em. That way no one could complain, you know, about wasting money.”

“Probably a good thing you did it, though. The coins and the time with your dad, I mean. You’ll be more prepared than any of us when we get into combat.”

Shifty nods, forehead scrunched, just like it always does when he’s really thinking about something. “Kinda worries you, huh? Realizin’ that not everyone grew up learnin’ how to survive. Some of those guys never even held a gun before joinin’ up.”

“Well, if anyone is gonna survive, it’s you. I might know how to walk quietly and find food, but you’ve got eyes like a hawk and hearing to match.”

He laughs at first. Then he takes a step closer to her. “Close your eyes.”

“What?” He’s far too observant not to notice the way the breath hitches in her throat.

“Somethin’ my daddy taught me. Close your eyes.” When she does, she feels his gentle hands come up to cover them – no peeking allowed. A beat of silence passes, then another. Finally, he whispers, “What do you hear?”

Besides their quiet breathing, there isn’t much. A birdsong nearby that she doesn’t recognize. The gentle whistle and wheeze of the wind as it glides over the bare trees and rustles the leaves around their feet. If she really concentrates, she thinks she can hear the distant babbling and bubbling of a creek. She tells Shifty as much.

He’s smiling when he uncovers her eyes. “See, you’re good at this too, Tommy. Observation is a skill. One ya gotta keep sharp, or else you might get outta practice.” His voice holds a tone that she doesn’t recognize on the last sentence.

He stares out across the valley, so she does the same. She feels him glance at her. He opens his mouth, and she thinks that he might say something. Instead, he only lets out a breath, readjusts his rifle, and starts to walk back the way that they came.

“Mama is makin’ pie for dessert tonight. We don’t wanna be late for that.”

There’s probably some sort of rule or commandment or something that Zenie breaks every time that she thinks ill of her own family. She’s never liked her father, and she harbors some sort of disappointment towards her siblings, and those feelings never fail to make her feel downright bad. Sure, lots of people probably wish for a different family or a different life at some point – but watching Shifty and his family, she can’t help but feel downright jealous.

The Powers’ household is filled to the brim with love. A warm household is something so foreign that Zenie feels like she needs to tread carefully or risk shattering it. But the love is strong, and even if she does trip, it doesn’t seem like it would shatter or cause any serious damage.

Shifty’s two youngest siblings are like him in that they’re good natured and kindhearted. Frankie, his youngest brother, asks them lots of questions about the Airborne and talks about how he can’t wait to be old enough to join up. Gaynell, his sister catches them up on the small-town goings-on and ribs Shifty good naturedly. In turn he’ll tug at her hair as she passes by, but there’s no malice in any of it – just the way that siblings can tease each other about small things without anybody getting their feelings hurt.

Then there are his parents. His mama is a beautiful woman of Scotch-Irish and Cherokee descent who is positively tickled that Shifty managed to befriend someone like himself so far from home. She’s so excited that Zenie, Shifty, and Earl McClung have all become friendly with each other that Zenie finds herself hoping that they can all three return someday after the war just to visit her.

She also wants to know all about where Zenie is from. Zenie hates lying to Shifty, and she finds that she hates using half-truths on his mama even more.

“What’s your town like, Tommy?” she’s keen to know. “Is it a lot like here?”

Zenie can’t bring herself to tell her that Clinchco, even though she’s been here all of a few days, seems friendlier and more homelike than, well, home. She doesn’t tell Mrs. Powers about how Shifty and Earl – besides her own sister, obviously – are the only other part-Indians that she’s ever really gotten to know – the only people whose experiences she feels like she can relate to in some way. She doesn’t tell her about how the kids at her school would war-whoop at her and run from her on the playground, begging her not to scalp them if she caught them during tag. She doesn’t tell her that she ran away because she felt like the walls of her own home were suffocating her and she couldn’t stand the sight of the streets and buildings that she had known all her life.

Instead she smiles and says, “Yes ma’am, but I think Clinchco is a lot nicer” and accepts the slice of chocolate pie that she’s offered after dinner. Mrs. Powers makes the best pie in the entire world; if she lived in Zenie’s town, she would have put the diner out of business a long time ago.

Shifty’s daddy is everything that a father should be – which is everything that Zenie’s own father is not. Mr. Powers is reserved, yet kind, and he has the same shy looking smile that Shifty does. He asks them lots of questions about their training and quietly tells them stories about fighting in the Great War long after everyone else has gone to bed. His laugh is loud and jolly, but he never raises his voice.

Something about watching Shifty in Clinchco makes Zenie look at him differently. It’s strange, to mix the two worlds. Personally, she doesn’t mind it.

Back in the woods, Shifty’s words about observation being a skill were right. Of course he meant being observant while on the hunt or in combat, but Zenie can’t help but use the skill on him. Because she’s always known that he’s reserved and kind, but she never realized that he was humble or a prankster until she saw him with his parents and siblings.

“How are you with a gun, Thomas?” Mr. Powers asks during dinner on one of their last nights in Virginia. “Darrel said in one of his letters that most of the men in your company had never used a gun before.”

“Well, I’m nothing compared to Shifty. None of us are.”

Shifty’s cheeks take on a pink hue, like a soft sunset. “Lots of the men are fine shots. Thomas is one of ‘em.”

“Yeah, but I didn’t make expert marksman, like somebody did.”

Mrs. Powers’ face lights up. “Expert marksman?”

“Only two men in the whole company earned that title, and he’s one of them.” If he won’t brag about himself, then Zenie is happy to do it for him. It’s a hell of an achievement, and he and his family all deserve to be proud of it.

“You never mentioned that in your letters,” his daddy beams. “Congratulations, son!” He claps Shifty on the shoulder, and although the expert marksman in question shakes his head, he can’t stop smiling. When his family is done hugging him and mussing up his hair, he shoots Zenie a wink as his mama insists on everyone taking a helping of banana pudding as part of the celebration, and she feels herself break into a grin almost as big as his.

They let Zenie have her own bedroom. It belonged to one of Shifty’s brothers before he joined up, and after all her time in the barracks with the rest of the company, lying alone in a bed is a welcome reprieve. She can relax, take off her bandages like Doc – or Gene, as he promises she can call him – insists, and listen to the sounds of nature outside without fear of being found out every second.

It’s peaceful. A kind of peace that she’s never known, not even back in her own home in her own town. It would be nice, after the war, to return to Clinchco and enjoy it all again.

It’s in this peace that her mind wanders a little too far. If she had grown up here, or if Shifty was from her town, she wonders if they would have become friends. Of course then he would know her as Zenie instead of Tommy, but maybe that wouldn’t matter to him. Either way, they would have gone to school together, and he might have come to the diner after playing basketball with his friends and they could have palled around.

Granny would have loved him. They would have gotten along well. Shifty would have been welcome in their house while Granny was living with them. She would have smiled and looked the other way if he brought Zenie home late from wherever they’d been, and pretended not to notice if Shifty gave her a kiss goodbye at the door –

The thought is so sudden that she sits up in the bed. Besides the pale winter moonlight streaming into the room from the window, she’s alone. Yet somehow, she feels like she’s just been caught doing something completely and utterly wrong.

Why had she thought about Shifty kissing her? He’s her friend, just like Toye or Bill or Gene . . . None of those friends makes her feel giddy whenever they walk into a room, though. And even though she smiles at Luz and Bill when they make stupid jokes, she doesn’t smile in spite of herself if she catches one of them glancing at her like she does with Shifty.

All the feelings that she’s been ignoring or writing off wash over her then like a flood that’s trying to drown her. She’s only felt this way about a boy once. Elijah Woodard, back home before the war. He had not reciprocated, and Zenie found it hard to consider romance with any boy since then.

But now those feelings are back. Now they’re about one of the men that she’s become closest to since joining the Airborne.

And there’s nothing that she can do about them.

#no proof reading we die like men 🫡#if there's mistakes I'll catch them later #but right now I am so freakin' tired #it's a problem for future me #band of brothers fanfic #shifty powers #shifty powers x original female character #shifty powers x ofc #hbo war #hbo war fanfic #oc zenie mcglamery #my writing

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misscammiedawn · 2 years ago

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Charmed! 2023 Recap - (Day 2: Thursday)

Part 1 link

Part 2 (you're here)

Part 3 link

Part 4 link

Part 5 link

As before this is an edited version of my personal therapy journal tailored for public posting. All scene names and stories included are done with permission. - This entry was half written at the con and edited for internet so there will be times where the tensing refers to events in the future and in the past. Apologies for that confusion

I slept from 1:45am-7:30am, my heart raced as the narrative of a scary dream pulled me to wakefulness.

Not the kind of heart racing I was hoping for to begin my day, alas. But the timing was *perfect*. Daja had just at that moment sent a message that she was starting her route. She was less than 5 hours away.

“Come to me.” I softly commanded, extending my presence far across the distance.

My heart ached, my lips could feel the air where they desired her lips.

“I am here, waiting for you. Come to me, my dear.”

And so the countdown begun.

I took a few moments to hug my plushie familiar who goes where I goes and come down from a dream which should not have terrified as much as it did. My boyfriend, Copper, and I were to share a coffee before he went down to the museums.

I had a coffee date! It was time to change!

Charmed! Outfit 1: Sunrise's dress.

Perfect for being plugged into brainwashing devices and reunions with long distance loves ~<3

While I did that my COVID test pinged negative. I grabbed a snapshot.

I maneuvered to add my gender dysphoria protection, my “chicken cutlets” but a somft voice in my head scolded me for the effort. “This is me.” It insisted.

We're going in to the con on our own esteem then? No augmentations? Good to know.

I went to grab my badge and got the 4th one. Nath, one of my metamours, was 2 spaces ahead of me so got a brief hug. Nath is a good friend, though I tend to be shy around my metamours. A little bit of that old programming from a life before keeps insisting that any love I take from a partner is taken away from their other partners and I should feel guilty about that.

Life doesn't work that way. Love doesn't work that way. But the thought persists. That's mine to deal with. I try not to burden other people with my baggage until they ask for it.

There was not enough time to do a full reunion though as Copper and I had our coffee date–

PERSONALLY CATERED BY A PANDA!

A playful and bouncy panda billing itself as "Panda Express" which is both adorable and charming.

It was so lovely! Drip coffee with a smooth flavor that lingers pleasantly!

Happy chats and calm comfort!

There was talk of plans and recounting of the prior night’s fun, including the plane ride. Hair coloring. Hopes and fantasies and the relief of feeling Seen.

I had long awaited my moment to meet with Panda and the Triad that it belonged to. I am overjoyed that it didn't disappoint.

But it had plans, Copper had a trip and there was a convention to begin!

Everyone scattered and I thought about diving into the con--- but perhaps first some weekend prep!

I was too excited to get started and went straight to outfit and mild make-up without a super grooming session. Checked my phone for the temporary GPS of Daja's car. A countdown I could follow for her arrival. She's not here. Not even close. Not yet! I couldn't begin all the fun stuff we had prepared and negotiated. The plane scene was only the start.

I couldn't do the fun stuff, but I could do a ton of ironing to save time for when I was able to enjoy things a bit more!

While I ironed I had a big conversation with my Counterpart Puppet and Sleepyhead. I got emotional about my inconsistencies and volatile personality. Started crying for no gosh darn reason for I am a silly Kitty x.x;

Sad to say this would be the first of a ton of times my emotions caught me off-guard this weekend x.x;

Don't worry, I'm editing the meltdowns out for the public facing recaps! Y'all know where my BPD tag is <3

With ironing done there seemed to be less than an hour until the promised arrival. A morning well spent and a heart full of cheer, I moved on to greet Daja!

The original plan was to do the dommey “come to me!” moment but my heart was too explode with joy so I just glomped. Daja woke up early for me! “You’re the only Sunrise worth waking up for!”

I am squishy melty squee! So so happy!

It was a short-lived reunion as her trance card had other names on the list above mine, but she was sure to show me all the ways I would later be doomed. Mind melting VR headsets and hypnotic orange chocolate. As well as a surprise tool which we may need later.

The afternoon was fairly lowkey. I found some familiar faces in Turq and Mazirian in the common area and took some time to discuss simple things like anime and wrestling. I was introduced to some of the more flavorful acts and some of the feats of incredible strength such as picking talent up by their ankles and hammer throwing them like Miss Trunchbull. Made me think about the fact that people picking me up is one of those horseshoe things. Right on the border between ABSOLUTELY NOT red and ...please....? green...

Only one person is allowed to pick me up. I am Excalipurr.

Turq and I have a decent enough relationship as metamours. I share the same shyness with him that I work hard to conquer with Nath and Puppet. It's a shame because Turq and I have a *lot* in common. We can talk about anime/manga and focus on the classics. We enjoy wrestling, Transformers, video games and we both are quite fond of a certain lass.

Maz is someone I have had very limited contact with. We flirt online openly, which is fairly rare for me, but he is firmly in the circle of people I have marked as Trusted. He's vouched for by my Goddess, my girlfriend and is partners with one of the fleeting few connections I had with the hypnosis community in the 2000s. He's fantastic with hairplay and---

--if I may be a little self-obsessed in my self-obsessed journal? ...he makes me feel attractive. His compliments on my hair, the genuine flirting... it makes my gender dysphoria go away. I present myself as an attractive woman a lot, especially in these spaces. I don't know how he does it, but he makes my mind forget that it's something I'm presenting as. It's just something that I am.

It was nice to just enjoy some gentle social energy and try to get added to the trance card of a lovely friend who worked with me briefly at Beguiled. I also finally got to meet Glitter-Spiral who is a very important human that I have evaded meeting for 3 years worth of events.

Glitter-Spiral has not let up on complaining to Daja about the fact that I have been RIGHT THERE for all this time and we keep missing one another. It was nice to finally meet her the energy that she exudes is so bright and forceful. Sassy and flooded with color. I could see instantly why she was scheduled to teach bratting.

As I enjoyed breaking street-date and hugging GS, Turq looked at his phone and audibly responded to the message “She’s sitting right next to me and I can ask for you.” Apparently Daja asked her spouse, Turq, if she could use the room to spend some time with me.

So I rushed upstairs and we worked a little on a couple things.

Firstly, practice for the Presence class. We ran some drills on the Big Moment we had discussed as an endcap to the hypnotist side of the demonstration. Something flashy and showy that I just needed practice with and we discussed blocking for the showy end of the hypnotee segment.

I had run many of these drills over and over with Sleepy but the script was not sticking to my mind and my nerves kept me from embodying my Top Space. I kept telling myself "we'll just read the script and do it live." "Trust that performance will give you the push you need." - another case of that dysfunction where my brain cannot accurately or coherently visualize the future and so lets all that hard work and practice disintegrate.

That used to be a big issue for me when I was a coder, but that's a story for another time.

The reason I mention it is because after running those drills with Daja, I finally felt prepared. I finally think I can teach a class!

Second on the agenda was working on an amnesia suggestion which will come up later and lastly installing a kiss summon trigger– because kiss summon triggers are my thing.

Daja returned the favor by plugging me into a 20 minute custom VR session to add in a few suggestions and gently scrub perception of them away.

During the session Daja installed two suggestions, both of which I shall lose memory of the moment I finish typing, the first is that when I nuzzle her I will drop deeply into trance and the second is a return of the summoning trigger from Beguiled.

(Future Cammie edit!: I now have full memory of this. As part of my therapy I journal daily and this was written on the day. I will make notes in the text when I am typing from after the convention)

There was a point where she heavily reminded me of Goddess’ control and that no hypnosis at all would work without my collar. I was told I reached for my collar and held it as I drank in that suggestion.

The aftercare for the scene progressed and triggers were tested and promptly forgotten once more.

From here on I type from after the convention. My memories of the above session remain with me both while working on the journal, for Daja ensured I could always journal reality, no matter what my mind perceived in a hypnotic compulsion (especially if I allowed myself to forget again afterwards) - but more crucially those memories will go with me back to Minnesota.

My hope is that by typing these words they may not fade as far too many tend to.

After the wonderful scene had been completed and sweet Cammie was puddlified and programmed, we agreed that it was a good time for food. My room contained myself, Sleepyhead and Puppet. Daja's room was her and Turq. We agreed that the two rooms should be a bubble for both COVID safety and meal sharing when appropriate.

The original plan was to connect Daja and Cammie rooms so we could just Kramer in to one another’s space all weekend. I feel that may have been a benefit to all had it have happened.

Alas. We had to walk a *whole flight of stairs!* Unacceptable.

Dinner for the night was a local Italian restaurant’s pizza. For Puppet a pasta dish (which required Daja and I to run over to Oikos Prime (remote) and grab cutlery, while saying hello to my Goddess Lady Ru’etha as well as other Oikos household members Jukebox and Copper… as well as sweet Timbit, the most adorable floof in the world) Sleepy got a 14” and for Turq, Daja and I we split a 16”. Sleepyhead had AGDQ on and insisted on showing Turq the AIRBOAT run, a modded Portal run that used Half-Life 2 objects on spawn to proceed through the testing facility instead of the normal portal guns.

The meal was well enjoyed and ended with Turq heading off to mingle and Daja had some more time put aside for scenes with other partners.

I decided that if I were going to get into a headspace less puddlified and a little more casual for the night then perhaps I would need to stop wearing my Sunrise dress, which was typically used for subby bliss scenes, such as the mind melting machine.

But my Dawn outfits were booked out for later in the weekend… so I made a quick change based on my proposed Travel Day outfit:

Charmed Outfit 2: Cozy Camden Winter-wear

For after brains have had time to be melted and one wants to drink coffee and see some familiar faces for no reason beyond socializing.

Socializing, as intended, was not as simple as I had assumed it would be for the majority of the time. In fact I felt quite overwhelmed. I am told that Pre-Pandemic Con Lifestyle involved a lot of group lunches and comfortable hangouts which were more accessible to making connections and melting shy exteriors. As it stood, I had a number of people do the “hey, it’s Cammie!” Moment and I never really worked out how to capitalize on it.

My own fault, really. Shyness is a crippling affectation and I cannot always be a forceful personality capable of running movie theatres or mingling on command.

But all too soon, Daja let me know that her personal jewelry commission from one of our lovely vending friends (whose I will edit in a name for if I get permission) was finished.

The commission was a blue bottle. A blue bottle because of a conversation the two of us had from when the vendors were showing off their wares.

As I typed on the final day of our last meet-up:

We did clean up. She packed away the summoning trigger and any other things which may have been picked up. I put away the blue fire, which I hadn’t intended to become a trigger, but Daja’s eager and clever brain picked up on it without hesitation. It was placed inside a glass bottle, waiting to be revealed again.

Blue Fire. The gift of perfect obedience. A trigger I had worked with in our last meeting, based on a story from the Tammy Pierce books Daja and I each love. A finger to the forehead. A magical blue fire. Then the enchanted individual would awaken having completed a single command. Whether it be as simple as climb down a tower or something unthinkable.

We had placed the magical blue fire which could melt her mind away inside a blue bottle, a reference in itself to Ocarina of Time.

We had agreed to unbottle the fire and return it on the night of the Soiree and use it to get Daja all nice and dressed up for the event while I offered her “my heart”, knowing she would return it in time. Theoretically it could be used in mingle with another scene we had that weekend, though.

Daja wanted to break street date and get to enjoy the blue flame for the entire weekend. I told her I was willing to go ahead and do that for her, but only if she was certain she wanted it.

Now, Miss Dawn is a Fae. This has been true since the days she was simply an expression of gender euphoria in tabletop scenes and LARP. She was not going to accept a simple “I’m sure” as a method of consent.

“Please, Miss Dawn. Uncork the bottle.”

You must say it of your own volition three times. Uncoerced and unbound by a fractionated mind. Say it three times and I shall uncork the bottle and unleash the spell which effortlessly bewitches your mind and engulfs you in the flame of Pure Obedience. Knowing that once that spell takes hold and melts your mind away there will not be a single thing you will not do for me when I command you under its enchantment.

“Please, Miss Dawn. Uncork the bottle.”

I lowered myself and took her arm and kissed her fiercely. Looked her in the eyes and held her gaze. I reminded her that she would act without any memory of her actions, that she would be giving me complete control of her and doing so without a long thought was simply unwise.

“Please, Miss Dawn. Uncork the bottle.”

Utilizing a previously installed trigger I commanded her to kiss me and enjoyed the moment. My fingers laced around the bottle. If she were to ask me one more time then I would be bound by my Fae Contract to comply and control her.

Was this really? Truly? Deeply desired?

“Please, Miss Dawn…”

I gave her hair a tug and looked her in the eyes.

“Please uncork the bottle.”

As you wish, my love.

What else could a Fae say when bound by a contract? I followed the pre-negotiated scene, which had some lovely amnesia laden suggestions hidden within. Because I am a tricky Fae and if the airplane ride and the MMM scene had not already proven, Daja and I studied for this test and had written a dissertation on how to make these scenes work.

I am also editorializing a little bit because I have a broken brain that doesn’t remember things and imagines things between the gaps.

“Hand me the bottle, my dear.”

And it was at this point, Daja learned that her arms were hanging loose at her side. She couldn’t reach up. She couldn’t unclasp it. If she couldn’t unclasp it she couldn’t hand it to me. If she couldn’t hand it to me, she couldn’t receive my gift of Perfect Obedience.

Daja noted her inability and I teased the chain. “I need you to offer it to me, my dear.”, my honey sweet voice taunting with my knowledge that she simply could not obey.

“Please, Miss Dawn. Please.”

Energy flowed between the pair of us and the Perfect Obedience trigger was tested. A finger to the forehead and Daja’s mind was set ablaze by blue fire. Her eyelids rolled up so beautifully and she would do *anything* I asked.

I am particularly proud of the two times I was able to show it off for an audience.

With the Obedience trigger installed and some more fun had, it was time to prepare for the morning. We were to go to Nath’s class, Daja and Tenn’s and then mine.

In order to go to mine we needed to have me ready to spend the night. So I masked up and rushed back to my room to perform the Walk Of Shame. Which I find lovely and amusing, given Nothing Was Going To Happen. But I got my pyjamas and tomorrow’s outfit and transported them to Daja’s room so I could Spend The Night. <3

I was still a lil’ bit overwhelmed and frazzled and made some silly mistakes like forgetting(?) my Precious. Precious is supposed to go with me and I forgot her!

It’s okay though. Miss had Faithful, Precious’ twin, and let me hug him while I slept…

And curled up with Miss and Faithful… I did sleep.

Part 3 link

#charmed recaps #hypnosis #hypnokink #charmed 2023 #hypnocons

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estebanocon · 2 years ago

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I'm still putting together my photos & videos from the Singapore GP but in the meantime, here are some incredible women in motorsport!

[1-5] I managed to catch some W-Series drivers outside their paddock: Jessica Hawkins, Emma Kimiläinen, Jamie Chadwick and Juju Noda. Also met Charlotte Sefton (who y'all might remember as Lando's wrangler lol) and I wasn't sure if she'd be comfortable taking photos (a lot of team members usually decline because they're working which is fine!) but she seemed surprised to be recognised and very kindly stopped to say hi.

[6] Laura Winter has been such a welcome addition to the official F1 coverage and I love her outfits so much omg. It was so nice to meet her because thanks to her I got to show Esteban my collage the weekend he won the Hungarian GP. Also she was so sweet in her reply after I tweeted this photo.

[7] I find Alex Thomson's journey to working in F1 very inspiring and she's so humble and self-deprecating despite her sizable social media following. When I asked for a photo she was literally like "who, me? 🥺", definitely an inspiration for anyone who aspires to work in the media side of F1.

[8] I'm such a fan of Naomi Schiff and I was worried I wouldn't be able to get a picture with her because she was in a rush but she was so so so so kind to turn back so we could take this. 😭♥️ Love her so much and hope we get to see more of her presenting.

[9-10] This is Jennifer, it was her first time marshalling at the Singapore GP (which has the highest number of female marshals among all the GPs I believe) and I took some photos and videos of/for her because they're not allowed to (except for the drivers' parade). We started talking after she tried to duck out of my camera's view but I honestly didn't mind because this last shot reminded me of my favourite shot from the 2017 race which also had 2 female marshals looking on to the track.

>> more photos from my F1 GPs >>

P.S. I also got a pic with Angela Cullen but I'll post that with my Lewis + Toto photos. ✌🏼🥲

#f1 #w series #women in motorsport #jamie chadwick #juju noda #jessica hawkins #emma kimilainen #charlotte sefton #mclaren #laura winter #alex thomson #naomi schiff #singapore gp #rach at f1 #f1 fandom faces #I meant for this to be a quick post and ended up typing a whole essay hahahaa #3 more dumps to come

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miraculousdoodlebugsblog · 3 years ago

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Okkayy I see y'all

Book 1 : Loved U For A Long Time

A LadyNoir story

Teen and up lol

Chapter 2: Fourth Kiss

Chat Noir loved her and stated it a thousand times. Sometimes he would lay awake till three am thinking about if she was in that bed right next to him. Cuddling with him of course. It was weird. Yet he hadn’t liked it...he loved it. Her attitude, her confidence, her smile. The way it made him feel and act when they were friendly flirted caused him to blush ten times more than any anime girl he knew . For the first time in his life, or since his mom disappeared , he felt something other than sadness. (Sure he seemed happy,but usually it was a facade unless he was around his friends.) All this for a girl he didn’t know the name of. He remembered their fourth kiss and no it wasn't out of petty. It was genuine.

It was Friday, his favorite day because it was practically the weekend and they got to stay longer. After the fight Ladybug and Chat sat down for a much needed heart to heart. About life, about school, about weird instances that have happened to them recently. Then taking a break from talking they took in the view.

“Hey chat.” She whispered, breaking his gaze into the sunset.

“Yes milady?” He turned to face her. She was still in a daze at the pink tinted sky. She truly is beautiful.

“Remember I love you” she said solemnly like she was reassuring herself of their relationship.

“Ok.” He couldn’t help but smile.

He knew moments like this would be hard to come by once they were adults. She then tried to give him a kiss on the cheek but he turned his head too quickly and… They kissed for a looong time cause even after she realized she kissed his lips instead she kept going.

His heart was beating faster than a car racing off the speedway, knocking him off his feet. He tried gasping for air but couldn’t seem to let go of his hold on her. She drew in closer practicality on top of him deeping it more. Maybe they were good kissers? He didn’t know he wasn’t there for the other three times.

All he knew was his brain was telling him to stop but his heart was taking this chance no matter how bad he’ll feel afterwards. What seemed like an eternity later, that was probably just 5 minutes, His vision was clearer. No it hadn’t been a dream, it’s just they realized they moved from one part of the roof side by side to another in a suggestive position. They stared deeply into each other's eyes, both very unsure of what they were doing as if they had been under a spell. Then she panicked.

“Eep! I am so-so-so-so-so sorry.” she yelped

He rubbed his neck realizing what she meant

Oh...Oh no.

“I-I-It’s fine I'm friends with a makeup-”

He stopped to look at her eyes. Was this action out of lust or love? Had she loved or loved him?

“Night Chat” she said blankly standing up.

What was the sudden change in mood? He swore they were making out like a second ago.

“Milady…” still breathing heavily from the life being knocked out of him earlier.

She hushed him with her finger, gave him a weak smile and said ‘Bug Out’.

He waited a minute then started to break down. Panicking in the now shadow of the roof.

Ugh. Why did I do that? Was I not good enough? What did I do? Who keeps playing with my feelings? Will I ever get over her? Maybe we should separate for a bit and we'll move on...

He knew part was doubt. He knew part was a lie. He felt like giving up but he knew that Paris needed him. His lady needed him. He almost had what anyone wanted in life. But while he could jump off that roof in regret and fear of what their relationship could become, he lived on. Because he knew there were bigger things than getting akumatized over insecurities today.

Yes I wrote this too in 7th grade. I was a baddie so I read teen and up fics😅. Now I legal to read dis- Liz

Chapter 1

#its the thrist for me #happy 6 years! been here for 3 #my grammar was immalcilate back then lol #miraculous ladybug #miraculous #ml #miraculous fanart #chat noir #marinette dupain cheng #adrien agreste #ladybug and chat noir #ladybug #miraculous ladybug fanart #ladynoir

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prettyinlimegreenboots · 4 years ago

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More Hearts Than Mine - Part I

As always, I do not own anything that you’re familiar with - Newsies, songs, characters, etc. This is loosely based on the song “More Hearts Than Mine” by Ingrid Andress. This has been rattling around in my head for a while and I decided to sit down and write it. As always, feedback would be wonderful! Warnings: cursing

Race - 17 years old, junior in high school - living at Medda’s Spot - 18 years old, senior in high school Charlie - 17 years old, junior in high school - living at Medda’s Amelia - 17 years old, junior in high school Albert - 16 years old, sophomore in high school - living at Medda’s Finch - 16 years old, sophomore in high school Smalls - 13 years old, 8th grade - living at Medda’s Romeo - 10 years old, 3rd grade - living at Medda’s Henry - 4 years old, daycare - living at Medda’s Jack - 19 years old, sophomore in college

October 4, 2019

“Let’s go! All of you are going to be late!” She hollered, her voice carrying throughout the house. Mornings were always crazy in the household but Medda wouldn’t have it any other way. It was always busy with six foster children running around getting into various amounts of mischief. To say, there was never a dull moment in the house and Medda lived for it.

Standing in the middle of the kitchen, she grinned seeing her children file in, sleep still in their eyes. She narrowed her eyes seeing a yawn escape his mouth. “Cover your mouth, Racer.”

Race looked at her with a grin. “Sorry momma. It’s Friday y'all.”

Charlie snorted, shaking his head. “Don’t matter because we’ve got a Chemistry exam that we’ve gotta get through before the weekend.”

“Don’t remind me.” Race groaned, throwing his head back as Smalls and Romeo joined him at the table.

Medda raised an eyebrow at the two. “Are you both ready for the exam?”

“Study hall right before it.” Charlie grinned, looking over at Race.

She shook her head. “An hour isn’t enough time to cram.”

“At least you don’t have a history exam.” Albert threw himself into a chair giving his older brothers a glance. “I second Charlie’s comment about study hall.”

Henry came running in, yelling about something. Medda raised an eyebrow, looking around the room, trying to see if anyone knew what was up with her youngest. Race, Charlie, and Albert all shrugged while Smalls and Romeo were focused on the bowls of cereal in front of them.

“Hey Henry, cool it.” Albert yelled, grabbing Henry and putting him at the opposite end of the table. “Can’t we have a breakfast in peace once in a while?”

Charlie shook his head, looking at his little brother. “You’re one to talk, Albie. Usually you and Racer are going at each other’s throats and causing a ruckus at breakfast. If we don’t have a quiet one, it’s typically your fault.”

Knowing she needed to squash whatever was happening in front of her before it got out of hand, Medda looked around the kitchen. “Hey remember Jack’s coming home tonight.” Medda called, causing the usual chaos of the kitchen to come to a standstill.

Concerned with the sudden quietness, Medda looked up from the six lunches she was packing. “You guys didn’t forget did you?”

“Uhhh no momma. Didn’t realize it came up so quickly.” Race was the first to recover pushing a bright smile on his face as he looked around at his foster siblings. “When will he be here?”

Medda smiled. “He said about 5, just in time for dinner. Don’t dilly dally tonight. Come home and get your homework done so you don’t have to don’t have to worry about it this weekend.”

“Did he say why he was coming home?” Albert bit into an apple, giving the room a wide glance.

Medda smirked. “As if that boy needs a reason to come home. He did mention he was bringing someone home with him.”

Several pairs of eyes widened at her statement as she levelset with each of her children. “Now listen here you’re going to leave your brother and whoever he brings home alone. No giving him crap or being the normal pain in the butts you are.”

“As if we’d ever do that.” Race’s jaw dropped looking first at Medda before looking between Albert and Charlie.

Medda sighed, pointing a finger looking at her oldest three. “Treat Jack’s guest as I treated you when you first came to live with me. If I hear of you pulling any tricks or pranks, you’ll be answering not only to me but I’ll let Jack deal with you as well.”

“Momma!” Albert and Race yelled, knowing that her threat was real. Between Medda and Jack, Albert and Race could only imagine the punishment they would cook up for them.

She chuckled, watching them shake their heads. “Be nice and be the kids I’m trying to raise you to be.”

“Ugh momma, why do you have to take all the fun out of it?” Race gave her a grin.

Medda grinned. “I’m not ruining your fun. I’m just telling you to behalf like the civilized children I know you to be. Now get going before you miss the bus.”

She quickly handed off the lunches she had packed before pressing kisses to each of their foreheads as she watched them walk out the door. She looked over at the three still sitting at the table with a grin. “Finish up and we’ll leave in ten minutes.”

Taking a sip of her coffee, she shook her head at the kids, knowing that they all loved their older brother dearly. “Momma?”

Looking up from her coffee cup, she looked over at Smalls. “Yes, Smalls?”

“Can we start up the conversation again about getting a dog?” She grinned, looking hopeful at her mother. “You know since Jack’s moved out and he had the energy of a dog.”

The calendar on the fridge caught her attention. “Felicity! Don’t talk about your brother like that. I thought we were going to table that until the summer.”

“Well . . . it’s almost summer,” Smalls grinned, raising her eyebrow in hope. Romeo, and Henry both stopped eating momentarily, looking between their sister and momma. “Come on Momma . . . what’s holding you back?”

“Summer is 9 months away. We’re going to be late if we don’t get a move on.” She gave the four a look. “We’ll table this discussion for when everyone is home and has a say.”

Smalls gave her mom a knowing look. “Because you know what everyone is going to say. Why not just say yes and we’ll tell everyone later?”

“Felicity, car now.” Holding out a lunch bag, she gave her daughter a look before pointing to the garage door. Her younger brothers followed suit as Medda grabbed her purse, keys and her own lunch with a sigh before following them out the door.

11:00am - Study Hall

Flipping open his Chemistry book, he tried to focus on the chapters the exam would cover. Looking across the room, he saw Charlie sitting with Amelia, his best friend since childhood, both of them absorbed in their studying. He sighed, flipping pages but not really paying attention to what he was reading. Feeling someone sit beside him, he picked his head up from his book. “You’ve been quiet all morning, what’s going on?”

Spot Conlon was one that was very protective of those around him and when those in his personal circle were not themselves, Spot Conlon was one to pick up on it immediately. Race often joked he should become a detective after high school.

“Jack’s comin’ home.” Race sighed, running a hand over his curls. “And he’s bringing someone back.”

Spot leaned back in his chair, whistling. “Any info on that person?”

“Momma didn’t know. Just that he’ll be home around 5, in time for dinner.” Race looked at his boyfriend. “I’m excited that he’s coming home but he’s never brought someone home before.”

Spot nodded, having been around the Larkin household since Race was adopted eight years ago. “Think it might be a girl or are you leaning towards a roommate?”

“I just talked to him yesterday and he didn’t mention anything about a girl.” Race sighed. “You know Jackie, he can’t keep his mouth shut normally.”

Biting his lip, Spot sighed. “Knowing Jackie, it’ll all be okay. Whoever this person is, should be more nervous than you.”

“What does that mean?” Race turned in his chair, giving his boyfriend a look.

Spot chuckled. “You and your siblings are an intimidating crew. Y’all look innocent but when you want, you all can be evil.”

Nodding, Race chuckled. “You’re right but momma put the kibosh on that. Will you come over tonight for dinner?”

“Medda alright with that?” Spot raised an eyebrow, giving his boyfriend a look.

Shrugging, Race closed his book with a slam. “She didn’t say anything about no boyfriends. I’m sure Finch and Amelia will be over just like normal.”

“I’ll be there.” Spot agreed. “I’ll text my sis and let her know.”

“Wanna dump all your Chemistry knowledge on me in the next thirty minutes?” Race leaned over, stealing a kiss from Spot with a grin.

Spot smirked. “You’re going to need more than 30 minutes, stud. You’ll need all the help you can get; all of which, unfortunately, I cannot help with.”

“Spottie . . . . please.” Race pleaded, giving him his best puppy dog eyes.

Leaning over, he kissed him, smirking. “Open your book and we’ll see what we can get through before the bell.”

4:30pm

Like any afternoon after school, the dining room table at Medda’s was rambunctious and loud. Nine kids were crammed around the table, each with their homework scattered around them. Medda was standing at the stove, stirring the sauce in the pot while listening to each of the kids talk about their day.

“Homework almost done?” Medda called, raising her voice a bit to be heard over the kids.

Various confirmations came from the table as she looked over at them. “Please put your stuff away and help set the table. Spot, Amelia, Finch, you staying for dinner?”

“If that’s okay, Medda?” Spot called, stuffing his book and notebook back into his backpack.

“Always sugar.” She grinned, raising a silent eyebrow in Finch and Amelia’s direction.

Finch nodded with a grin while Amelia hesitated. “Sorry Medda, mom’s making dinner and wants all her kids home tonight.”

“No worries, Amelia. I’m sure we’ll see you at some point this weekend?” Medda asked, looking at Charlie’s best friend.

She nodded with a grin. “I’ll be around. I’ll see you guys later.”

Several goodbyes were yelled as she made her way out the front door. Medda shook her head at the girl before stirring the pot of sauce on the stove. She had long considered Amelia another adopted child with how often she was over at the house. “So you don’t know anything about this person Jack’s bringing home, momma?”

“If I did, I would tell you what I know.” Medda said, looking between Charlie, Albert, and let her gaze land on Race, who asked the question. “Jack called me up last week and asked if it was alright if he brought someone home with him. That’s all he said. Now, he’ll be here in a little bit, so I need all of your bags put up in your rooms and wash your hands. Smalls, Romeo put plates out. Race and Albert silverware and Charlie cups, please.”

With assignments handed out, the kids scattered. Henry sat at the kitchen counter, swinging his legs, back and forth watching Medda with wide eyes. “What can I do momma?”

Looking at the table being set, Medda smiled. “Henry can you make sure every place has a napkin?”

He hopped off his chair doing as he was told while Medda took a moment to relax in the busyness of the house and thankful for everything that surrounded her.

“You alright, momma?” Albert asked, pausing in his movements of laying down the silverware, looking at her.

She smiled. “Just fine baby. Excited that all my children will be in the house this weekend. How’s that table coming along?”

“Almost done momma.” Race called. “How’s the spaghetti?”

She gave it one more stir before nodding. “It’s almost ready.”

“Momma, Race, Charlie, Albert, Smalls, Romeo, Jack’s home and he brought a pretty girl!” Henry yelled as several eyes went wide and the front door was thrown open.

Quickly wiping her hands, Medda put the towel on the counter before following the kids to the front foyer. She smiled at Spot and Finch who stood back, giving the family some space. Medda couldn’t help but tear up as her oldest walked through the door, holding a hand of a pretty girl, just as Henry had exclaimed.

#Newsies #Newsies Fan Fiction #writing #More Hearts Than Mine Newsies #Medda Larkin #Racetrack Higgins #Albert DaSilva #Meeting the Family

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silentreigns · 1 year ago

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Mexican GP 2023 Reflection

Checo should have been patient. You just fumbled a top 5 finish at your home race. And the worst part is, Daniel's road to his seat just got a lot easier. I guess I can be happy that Lewis closed the gap to P2.

The crowd was so mean to Charles like there's was literally nothing he could have done. I'm surprised he was able to stay in the race. Not fair to take action on an incident that happened on the first lap after the race has completed

Y'all on Twitter and Tumblr are way too mean to Carlos. I've said it once and I've said it again: Carlos is a team player. With that being said there's no way he could have kept Max behind at all. He did a lot of defending today and that was commendable

I'll give Mercedes their 10s. They cut the pitstop times down a second from COTA. That strategy of putting Lewis and George on mediums was way too bold but it paid off

Also Lewis is the greatest to ever do it. Setting the fastest lap on 30+ lap old mediums is not for everybody

Lando may have put on the best race of his career despite the disastrous race restart. I'm sure if he was able to qualify well he would have been on the podium. Very happy for him

Esteban and his radio had me cackling. And the it took a lot of laps for him to make a move on Nico. I hope he never stops being a comedian

I am so frustrated with Yuki like all he had to do was be patient. He would have gotten Oscar eventually as his pace was dropping off. Still, I am very happy to see that he showed a lot of pace in the car. Daniel also doing well is giving me hope for the future

I hope people have gotten the "Oscar is having the greatest rookie season since Lewis Hamilton" stuff out of their system. Because... no. He's been involved in too many racing incidents this season for that statement to even hold up.

So glad that Kevin was fine after the crash. My heart sank when I saw his car catch on fire.

Aston Martin PLEASE bounce back y'all have been making very sad. Hate him or love him, Fernando on the podium was very entertaining

Overall, this race had a few cool moments. Definitely more action that last year. But for like 70% of it? I was pretty bored. Brazil is a sprint race weekend so I'm probably gonna complain about that. But maybe we will get a surprise winner? Who knows

#f1 #formula 1 #lewis hamilton #charles leclerc #yuki tsunoda #lando norris #kevin magnussen #checo perez #carlos sainz #esteban ocon #mexican gp 2023

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phantom-curve · 4 years ago

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find the strength, find the melody pt. 5

this is still a working title. I just can’t decide if it fits or not, so feel free to offer any suggestions! once I finish this fic I’m going to go back and reblog it in it’s entirety and I promise I will finalize and update the title for all the reblogs to make it easier to find in the future. I’m probably also going to post the completed fic to AO3, possibly with some slight editing updates. I’ll add the link once that’s active.

also, I want you all to know that I almost missed a typo in this chapter that would have had Julie biting her nip instead of her lip so you’re welcome for that.

also also, this chapter solidified my decision to write this fic from Luke’s perspective once I finish Julie’s. my god, the things happening in this boy’s head during this scene had me taking a bath and calling my husband for cuddles at 2pm. HE’S JUST TOO SOFT. Reggie and Alex will be more prominent in his story. their characters are so fun to write, but harder to work into Julie’s story until it’s closer to the end.

to be fully honest, I’m not entirely happy with the cut-off on this chapter, but I felt like y'all deserved all 3,084 words after a 6 day hiatus so I had to pick a slightly more awkward end spot. hope it makes up for taking so long to update!

tag list (lmk if you want me to add you!): @blue-hat-girl, @lwhoscribbles, @bluefyoto94, @5sosmukefan, @moonlightxnder, @leahthewonder, @kat-maybe-not

Julie didn’t expect to see Luke the next day. When her alarm went off at 6:45 that morning, she woke up with a start, heart racing as memories of last night flooded back. She had been ready to defend herself and Luke to her father, but it had been business as usual in the Molina household. Her father had gotten up like normal and gone about his morning without any hiccups from a very cute, unexpected teenage boy showing up. Julie could hear him leaving for work now, calling up a loving goodbye to her in between shouts at Carlos to hurry his butt into the car. When she peeked out of her window at the studio it looked exactly the same as it always did, empty and still. For a moment, she was sure that she dreamed the entire thing.

Something felt different in her soul though. Realigned, like a part of her she didn’t realize was missing had finally made its way back home. Everything in her body felt lighter as she got dressed and floated down the stairs to grab her breakfast. She was riding high on cloud nine, humming actually humming! under her breath as she moved around the kitchen, when a loud rap at the back door startled her. Flynn would have just walked in so it couldn’t be her. Her dad, too, would have simply run inside if he had forgotten something. It wasn’t until she was already reaching for the door handle that she recognized the electricity sparking in the air. She opened the door to a now familiar pair of puppy dog eyes waiting on the other side.

“I thought I told you to leave by 6:30 so my dad wouldn’t see you.”

Julie tried to make her voice snappy, but it was so hard when he was standing there, bobbing and weaving in the early morning sunshine, eyes shining, lips curved into the sweetest smile. He took her words in stride. His smile stretched as his head dipped with a charming amount of bashfulness. She realized with a jolt that he had been doing that for days now, ever since she ran into him after her meeting with Ms. Harrison. Just rolling right through every punch she threw at him like it was nothing. Her walls slipped a little lower.

“I thought I could make you breakfast. You know, as a thank you for last night.”

Her brain short circuited. Luke Patterson...wanted to...make her breakfast? She had to turn the words over in her mind a few times before they began to make sense. Julie studied him for a moment, noticing that he seemed much more like his normal confident self this morning. Gone was the unsteady boy that had stood in her mom’s studio doorway last night. Still, one shoulder was hitched a little higher than the other, his fingers flexing against the backpack strap slung over it. His face was open and eager, but she could detect the hint of nervousness that he was trying to cover up. She caught a faint whiff of jasmine as a slight breeze blew past them and immediately zeroed in on the damp wisps of hair curling around his neck. The thought of Luke in her shower, using her soap was almost her undoing. Desperately trying to get a hold on the situation, she leaned against the open doorway, crossing her arms across her chest in what she hoped was a nonchalant movement.

“I thought we were going to pretend last night didn’t happen.”

His smile faltered a little bit, his free hand flying up to scratch at the back of his neck. His bouncing shifted to rocking, and Julie felt the change in his demeanor like a punch to her gut.

“Yeah...okay...I mean if that’s what you want. I’ll uh, see you around, Molina.”

His voice lacked its typical singsong quality, rejection flattening the lilt she had become accustomed to. Pain bloomed in Julie’s chest, familiar and foreign all at the same time. It wasn’t like the pain she was used to, wasn’t connected to her mom or her music. This pain was all about Luke and the fact that she had just hurt him for no reason at all. Shame rolled through her stomach in a nauseous wave. Luke was already adjusting the bag higher on his shoulder, turning away from her, body language all but screaming “leave me alone”. It didn’t stop her from reaching out and laying a hand against his shoulder.

“Luke.”

His name was a plea and an apology rolled into one. She felt the ripple of his muscles as his body reacted to it, dropping her hand only when he turned to face her. Their eyes caught, the air sparking between them.

“What were you going to make?”

His brow furrowed in confusion, his eyes never leaving hers. She knew she had to do better, but God, it was hard to face your feelings after bottling them up for so long.

“For breakfast. I usually just grab a Pop-Tart to eat on my walk to school. Do you actually cook every morning?”

Luke was still staring. Julie bit her lip, the tail end of a nervous giggle that she couldn’t quite suppress all the way slipping out. The sound seemed to jolt him out of whatever trance he was in. In two seconds, he was back to bouncing on the balls of his feet, arms loose at his sides once more.

“Yeah, I do.”

The shy smile on his lips did something to Julie’s insides that she wasn’t willing to investigate just yet.

“Usually eggs, but sometimes waffles or pancakes on the weekends. Bacon if the boys are coming over. It’s the most important meal of the day, ya know.”

His eyes were bright again, practically glowing like they usually did when he started talking about something he was passionate about. Julie had only ever seen him like this when he was going off on another music related rant in class. Who knew breakfast foods could be so inspiring?

“Well, that sounds a lot better than strawberry Pop-Tarts.”

She turned, leaving the door open as she started to walk back towards the kitchen. She could hear Luke hesitate in the doorway, but all it took was one look over her shoulder and he was rushing in after her, quietly closing the door in his wake. They walked to the kitchen in silence, Julie trying to figure out what the hell was happening in her head and heart the entire time.

The instant Luke entered the kitchen it was like she was seeing a completely different side of him. He was quick and sure with all of his movements, taking only a few minutes to find everything he needed without even asking her for guidance. The muscles of his forearm rippled as he whisked the eggs together, the flick of his wrist just as mesmerizing now as when he played guitar. His confidence on stage had always been awe-inspiring, the way he moved and the energy he gave off undeniably cool and sure, never an ounce of doubt that he was anything other than amazing. It was a way for him to prove he was the best of the best, show that he had fully earned the title of “Rockstar”.

This moment in her sunny kitchen showed a quieter confidence. Nothing flashy or showy, just Luke doing something he clearly enjoyed for no other reason than the fact that he liked it. The rock god attitude had always been surface-level hot, sure, but this kind of domestic comfortability was an entirely new level of attractive. Julie felt her mouth go dry, the tips of her ears growing warm the longer she watched him. He hummed under his breath, the sound reverberating in her soul and sending little shivers up and down her spine. It wasn’t until he was sliding a plate of steaming scrambled eggs and toast in front of her that she finally recognized the melody. Her breath caught and he met her eyes with a gentle expression.

“I told you already, it’s an incredible song.”

He grabbed his own plate and lowered himself into the chair next to hers at the bar. He immediately began shoveling eggs in his mouth. Julie took a few bites of her own food, pleasantly surprised at how good it was. Then an ugly thought took over her brain. She dropped her fork, turning to stare at Luke with a dark intensity she couldn’t control.

“Did you...did you play my mom’s song?”

She couldn’t keep the betrayal out of her voice. It echoed in the room, low and hollow, like the sound of tomb closing. Luke’s own fork fell with a clatter.

“Julie, no.”

His voice was just as desperate, filled with pain and apology.

“I swear to you, no. I wouldn’t do that. I knew what it was as soon as I found it. I couldn’t hurt you like that. I never even showed it to Reggie or Alex.”

She believed him. The look on his face, the tone of his voice, proved to her that he wasn’t lying. Then, his cheeks turned a very light pink.

“I just...sometimes...I would read it. Not around the guys.”

He was quick to add that part in there, like he was assuring her he could protect the things that were important to her. Like he was promising to protect her. She could tell he was a little uncomfortable with the revelation, but he pushed through anyway.

“Just like...at night before bed...or when I was stuck on a song and needed some inspiration.”

His eyes rose to meet hers, some tender emotion she couldn’t identify lurking in their oceanic depths.

“I meant it when I said you’re an incredible songwriter. Sometimes...”

His cheeks darkened, ears flaming red to match.

“Sometimes...it was almost like I could hear you playing it.”

The last part was said so quietly she almost missed it. She felt her face go slack. Who was this guy and what had he done with the normal, cocky Lucas Patterson? The gentleness of his words, the way his eyes were drilling into hers like he could see all the way down to the depths of her soul, had her blinking against the sudden emotion clogging her throat.

“Last night was the first time I ever played it.”

The confession sprung from her lips without second thought. She had to do something, anything to break whatever tension seemed to be thickening between them with each passing second. Luke tilted his head, another warm smile gracing his lips.

“You were even more amazing than I could have ever dreamed. You’re like a human wrecking ball, Julie. It’s insane how talented you are.”

So much for breaking the tension. Julie sucked in a breath, her heart stuttering in her chest. It was only then that she realized how close their bodies had become, each one leaning farther into the other as their conversation went on. There were only inches between them now, Luke’s lyrical voice curling into her ear with a delicious intimacy she couldn’t help but crave. If she got any closer to him their foreheads would touch, their nose would brush, their lips would...

And just like that she was on the ground, her backside stinging from slamming into the hardwood so abruptly. Luke blinked down at her, eyes still swimming with that damnable affection, but also tinged with confusion. In her desperate attempt to bail, she must have leaned too far back, falling off the barstool before she could even realize what would happen. She shook her head to clear the spell Luke had been spinning before looking past him to the clock on the oven.

“We should probably leave for school now unless we want to be late.”

She ignored the breathy way her voice came out, pushing herself to a standing position. Without making eye contact, she wove her way around Luke. He was like a block of ice in his chair, still poised to lean into her completely. She scooped up their half-eaten breakfasts, plopping them loudly into the sink before slipping her arms through her backpack straps. Nowhere left to hide, she turned back towards the brunette boy.

He stared at her for a long moment, the hot frustration in his gaze burning through her and making her want to squirm. For a second, she thought he was going to push it, but then his eyes closed for what felt like an eternity. When they opened again, he seemed resigned. She could detect just a hint of his previous fiery intensity, the rest of it shrouded behind an almost forlorn veil of acceptance.

“If that’s what you want.”

There was a deeper meaning to his words that Julie wasn’t prepared for. Her breathing faltered, the silence between them heavy with the things he was leaving unsaid. She almost gave in. Almost asked him just what, exactly, he wanted right now. But she didn’t need to ask him because she could read it plain on his face. It terrified her. And Julie had become an expert at avoiding things that scared her in this past year. So, instead, she gave him a tight nod and zipped out the front door to wait for him outside.

In the clear sunshine of another beautiful LA day, she was finally able to breathe again. Out here, away from the thick tension of the kitchen, it was easier to tell herself Luke was just being nice. Easier to pretend their little moment inside was just some friendly banter. Easier to ignore the implications of Luke’s serious words and caring tone. She gulped in deep breaths, willing her head and heart to cool down. She heard the click of the door latching shut behind her, turned to see Luke standing there, a small pout on his lips, face entirely unrepentant. Good lord she was in trouble.Then a realization hit. She clung to it, desperately hoping it would get them back on a more neutral page, pull them out of whatever had been simmering between them all morning.

“Where’s your car? I know you didn’t drive over here last night.”

Luke’s face changed immediately, chagrin taking over every feature. His mouth opened and closed a few times before he shoved his hands in the front of his jeans.

“I uh...I only live a few houses away from you...”

Now it was Julie’s turn to gape like a fish. Luke Patterson was her neighbor? Since when?

“My parents...we moved to the neighborhood a couple years ago. I...uhm well...”

His hand rose again to scratch at his neck, and she had never wanted to grab at him more than in this moment. That movement was slowly beginning to drive her crazy. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and blurted it out in one garbled sentence.

“Iusedtohidearoundthecornerandlistentoyouandyourmomplayinthestudiopleasedon’thateme.”

Julie was so stunned she nearly tumbled off the top step as she staggered backwards. Only Luke’s quick reflexes saved her from falling flat on her back for the second time that morning. His eyes darted around her face, clearly trying to figure out if she was about to lose it on him or not. Julie struggled to process the info dump she had gotten from Luke in the last couple of days. All of her preconceived notions were slowly being proven wrong and she wasn’t entirely sure how to deal with that. Life was easier when Luke was just another selfish, swaggering upperclassman. How long had she been in his orbit? Years it sounded like. The realization was staggering.

“You...you listened to us play? Why?”

Luke still had his hands wrapped around her wrists. Julie couldn’t find it in her to break the connection. Her voice came out more broken than she intended, memories of sunlit days singing with her mom invading her mind. Luke remembered those days too?

“Haven’t you been listening?”

His voice was strained, his eyes boring into hers like he was trying to telepathically force her to understand. His fingers flexed against her skin, the movement causing a flurry of butterflies to erupt in her stomach.

“You’re a star, Julie Molina. I couldn’t help getting sucked into your orbit.”

Julie felt her eyelids flutter, her chest squeezing like it was going to burst from the rapid inhale/exhale she couldn’t seem to calm. He said her name like a prayer, his lips turning it into something holy and sacred. She was drowning in Luke’s gaze, a riot of emotions swirling around in her brain. Somehow, because he was Luke and apparently he knew her better than she ever expected him to, he could tell that his declaration had gone a little too far. Easing back, he released his hold and rocked away from her just a bit to give her the space she so desperately needed. His eyes were still impossibly soft, bordering on adoration as he watched her come to terms with his bold announcement. Finally, once Julie was pretty sure she had come back down to Earth, he jogged down the front steps.

“We can still drive if you want to, but I think it’s a pretty nice morning for a walk if you’re up for it.”

“Okay.”

It felt like the smallest possible acceptance she could offer him, but the way Luke lit up in response made her want to melt. Head still swimming, she made her way down the steps on shaky baby deer legs. Luke didn’t push, just fell in step with her as easy as pie. Every once in a while, his fingers would brush against her hand, and it took every scrap of will power to keep herself from just reaching out and linking their hands together.

They passed a house bursting with flowers out front. Julie’s eyes caught on an explosion of bright red in the corner of the yard. Dahlias. Her mother’s favorite. It felt like a sign, and another part of Julie’s soul slipped quietly back into place. The next time Luke’s hand knocked against hers she shyly allowed their fingers to tangle. She didn’t need to look to see the smile break out on his face. She could feel the warmth of it filling the air around her like her own personal sun. He squeezed just once. Just enough to acknowledge the move for what it was. She didn’t let go until the school appeared in the distance.

#y'all know the EXACT pout face I'm referencing in this one #also i love working show dialogue into fic dialogue #also also soft boy Luke is going to be THE DEATH OF ME #FUCKING KILL ME WITH YOUR SOFTNESS LUCAS I AM READY #Mads writes #Mads speaks #bless these babies for giving me less angst and more fluff this time #julie and the phantoms #jatp #juke #julie x luke #luke x julie #palina #julie molina #luke patterson #juke fanfic #jatp fanfic #find the strength find the melody

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catlynhoss05 · 5 years ago

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My Blonde Beauty

Ch. 1: Like A Rodeo

(Link is to a picture of what the reader's eye's look like)

Pairing: Jethro Gibbs x fem!reader & fem!reader x mother!Reba

*not my gif*

Set in season 8 (yes I know, Emily Fornell doesn't show up until probably season 11, but I really don't care)

Summary: Gibbs is in for a big surprise when he meets a beautiful famous singer and falls in love with her.

Jethro was weaving through the crowd with his hand on Emily's head. He didn't want to risk losing her in the mess of people. He had decided to take Emily to a rodeo that was in town. Because he knew that one of her favorite singers was singing the National Anthem and was going to ride a bull and a few other events. Also, Jethro had figured that she would love to meet her.

He quickly finds them a seat in the front row to escape the crowd. Jethro had chosen the seats that they got because he wanted Emily to have a perfect view of the rodeo and of the singer, of course. Once the rodeo announcer's voice came over the speakers, everyone had taken their seats and quieted down. "Ladies and gentlemen, please rise and remove your hats for the National Anthem." The crowd stood for the National Anthem. A young woman in a red plaid shirt, light blue boot cut jeans, brown pointed toe cowboy boots and red chaps had stepped out into the arena and started to sing. Jethro felt his chest tighten, but not how it normally did when he heard the song. Wow, she's amazing. Jethro had thought to himself.

After the song was over, the young woman had made her way out of the arena to go and get her horse ready for the barrel racing and the roping events. When it was her turn for both events, she had gotten perfect scores for both. Jethro and Emily were both in complete shock after watching both of the events. When it came to the bull riding event, Jethro was left taken aback from this gorgeous woman's bravery. "Isn't she amazing, Uncle Gibbs?" Emily asked with a wide smile as they made their way over to where the young woman was doing autographs and taking pictures with some fans at an entrance into the arena.

"Yeah, she is. She's very talented and very brave." Jethro smiled down at Emily as they waited in line. As they were the next ones in line for a meet and greet, Emily was getting even more excited with each passing second. Emily's finally going to meet one of her absolute favorite singers, (y/F/n) McEntire. When it was their turn to meet her, Emily was ecstatic to finally meet her. "Hi." Emily couldn't get anything else out but a greeting.

"Hi. How are y'all doin'?" (Y/N) asked with a bright smile as she signed a picture for the girl. "We're doing great. You're amazing and very brave to get on that bull." Emily said. "Well, thank you. You're too sweet. I had actually grown up around all this stuff and on a farm in Oklahoma. Ya know, you have beautiful red hair like my mama." (Y/N) smiled as she handed the girl the signed picture. She looked over at Gibbs and winked at him, making his cheeks go pink. "Who's your mom?" Emily wondered. "Reba McEntire. She had adopted me when I was 2 years old after my parents had passed away." (Y/N) said as she made full eye contact with Jethro for the first time. Jethro could get completely lost in (Y/N)'s gorgeous deep blue eyes for forever if he could.

"Hi. You must be in charge of this beautiful young lady." (Y/N) smiled brightly at Jethro. He's completely lost in her eyes before he finally realized that she had said something to him. "I'm so sorry. Yes, I am. I've been close friends with her parents. I guess I'm like an uncle to her. Jethro Gibbs." He said, extending his hand out to her that she gladly accepts. Emily elbows him lightly to try and get him to ask (Y/N) out on a date. Emily rolls her eyes at him when he gives her a confused look.

"My uncle here would like to ask you if you would like to go on a date with him." Emily said, causing Jethro to blush deeply. "That's probably the nicest way I've ever been asked out." (Y/N) laughed a bit, taking a pen and writing her number on the back of Jethro's hand. "Is that really the nicest way someone has asked you out?" Jethro asked as he watched her write her number on his hand. He couldn't help but enjoy the way (Y/N)'s hands felt on his. "Yes, really. There you go. It was nice to meet you both, but I gotta get goin'. Call me sometime." (Y/N) kissed Jethro's cheek and winked at Emily before running off.

When Friday morning had come around for Jethro and his team, there were no new cases for them to solve. The whole day consisted of paperwork for the whole team. All morning, Jethro couldn't help but think of the beautiful woman that he had the pleasure of meeting the previous night. The way her long blonde hair fell perfectly around her face that was up in a gorgeous French braid just moments before. The way her stunning blue eyes sparkled in the overhead lights and the way she smiled at him. Around noon, Jethro had decided to go call (Y/N) and to her out on that date.

"Hello?" (Y/N) answered her phone on the second ring. "(Y/N)? It's Jethro Gibbs." He said with a smile on his face. "Hey, Jethro. What's up?" She asked sweetly. "I was calling to see if you would like to go on that date with me. There's this nice little diner near here that has really good food." Jethro said as he looked around to make sure that none of his agents were around. Especially Tony DiNozzo. Jethro likes to keep his personal life, well, personal and away from the office. "I would absolutely love to, Jethro. How about tonight at 7 o'clock?" (Y/N) asked. "Yeah, that sounds great. Where are you staying at so I can pick you up?" Jethro wondered. "I'm staying at the Adam's House Hotel." She replied. "Alright, sounds great. I'll see you tonight at 7 o'clock." Jethro smiled into the phone. "Alright, I'll see you tonight. Bye, Jethro." (Y/N) said and hung up. Jethro smiled, pocketed his phone and went back to work.

When Jethro walked back into the bullpen and back to his desk, the other three agents noticed the smile on his face that he was trying to hide. "What was that about, boss? Do we have a case?" Tony asked. "No case and it's none of your business, DiNozzo. Get back to work." Jethro orders. For the rest of the day, Jethro had a smile plastered on his face and was in a relatively good mood. Ziva knew exactly why Jethro was in such a good mood and why he was smiling when he returned back into the bullpen.

Tony and McGee kept looking up at their boss every few seconds to make sure that he was alright. When 5 o'clock came around, Jethro didn't hesitate to leave work on time to get ready for his date. "Have a nice weekend. See you guys on Monday." Jethro said as he made his way to the elevator. Tony and McGee looked at each other confused. "Ziva. Do you know what that was all about?" Tony asked as they all packed up their stuff.

"Yes, but I'm not telling either of you." Ziva glares at the 2 men. Tony frowns at the response. He turns to his partner in mischief; McGee. "Well, McGee. Looks like it's time for a steak out." McGee looks incredulous. "Tony, he'll kill us both if he finds us following him." McGee tries to reason with Tony. "Let's just go ask Abby to see if she knows anything." Tim suggests. "Ask if she knows about what?" Abby said as she walked into the bullpen.

"Do you know what's going on with Gibbs? He's been smiling since he made a phone call at lunch, been in a very good mood and just left on time for once." Tony explained with a questionable look on his face. "Woah, that is weird. But, all I know is that Gibbs had taken Emily to the rodeo that was in town last night. And, if he has met someone, he will tell us when he's ready. So, c'mon boys and Ziva. Let's go home." Abby said as they all walked to the elevator to go home.

On his way home, Jethro stops by the store to pick up a bouquet of beautiful red roses. Jethro got back to his house. 'It's been a while since I've been on a date with a woman. I don't even wear cologne.' He thought to himself. He quickly gets cleaned up and changes into nice, clean clothes and tries to fix his hair a little bit. He grabs the bouquet of roses, leaves his house and makes his way to the Adam's House Hotel. As Jethro arrives at the hotel, he parks his truck, grabs the flowers and makes his way into the hotel.

As Jethro made his way into the hotel lobby, he saw the beautiful woman that he met the night before, sitting comfortably on the couch. She was wearing a nice black plaid shirt, blue bootcut jeans and her black pointed toe cowboy boots. 'Man, she's absolutely gorgeous.' Jethro thought to himself. (Y/n) looked up from where she was sitting on the couch, making eye contact with the handsome man she had met at the rodeo. She stood up and made her way to him as he was making his way to her as well. Jethro couldn't help the smile that crept onto his face as he approached (y/n).

"Hey, (y/n). You look absolutely…… amazing." Jethro said as he hugged her close. "Well thank you, Jethro. You look absolutely ravishing." (Y/n) smiled one of those million dollar smiles. "These are for you." Jethro said nervously, handing her the bouquet of roses. "Aw, thank you. That's so sweet of you and how'd you know that roses are my favorite?" She asked, a light blush creeping onto her cheeks. "Just a lucky guess, I suppose. Are you ready to go on our date?" Jethro asked, offering her his arm. "Yes, I am. Such a gentleman." She smiled. "I try. Especially for someone as gorgeous as yourself." Jethro smooth talked as he opened the passenger side door of his truck for her.

As Jethro pulled out of the hotel's parking lot, he glanced over at (y/n), who was looking out the window and checking out D.C.. As she turned back around to face forward, she smiled as she felt him glance at her a couple times. "So, what do you do for a living?" (Y/n) asked. "I'm a Federal Agent with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, or NCIS for short. We investigate crimes against the Navy and Marine Corps and their families." Jethro explains. "That's amazing. You're a Marine, correct? Well, veteran." She asked. "Yes ma'am. Once a Marine-" "Always a Marine." She finished. Jethro's amazed by her. After talking for a bit, Jethro turns on the radio and the first song that's being played is her song called 'Vandalized'.

"Hey. It's one of my songs. 'If I was a wall, you'd take a can, And spray paint, paint all over this man.' (Y/n) started to sing and Jethro was in complete 'awe' of her. She looked over at him as he pulled into the parking lot of the diner. "What?" She asked with a sly smirk as Jethro parked the truck. "What?" He asked, confused. "You just looked like you were about to say something. That's all." She takes her seatbelt off and he does the same. "I was just amazed to hear you sing. You have a beautiful voice and you're amazing. And, not just at singing." He winked at her as they got out of the truck and headed into the diner.

As Jethro and (y/n) enter the diner, (y/n)'s a bit surprised that she's not getting bombarded by fans. Jethro had made a call to the diner saying how he wanted to make this date as 'normal' for (y/n) as he could. Jethro wanted to give (y/n) the experience of a life outside of fame. Even if it was only for an evening. He escorted her to an empty booth by the windows. "This diner is nice, Jethro. I love the feeling it gives." (Y/n) said, smiling shyly. "I'm glad you like it here." Jethro chuckled. The nice waitress behind the counter came over to their table.

"Hi. How are you two doing tonight? May I start you two off with some drinks?" The waitress asked nicely "I'll take a coffee." Jethro smiled. "I'll take a coke and a small packet of peanuts if you have any." (Y/n) said nervously. "Yes, ma'am. I'll be back with your drinks." The waitress smiled kindly, making her way back to the counter. "What!? You'd be surprised with the things that I grew up with. Especially some of the foods." (Y/n) giggled. "Really? What kind of foods did you grow up with?" Jethro asked with a smirk. "Have ya ever heard of mountain oysters?" (Y/n) asked as the waitress, Elaine, came back with their drinks.

"Here's your coffee and here's your coke and peanuts. Have you two decided on what you want yet?" Elaine asked with a bright smile. "I'll take the usual, please." Jethro smiles. "And for you, miss?" Elaine asked kindly. "I'll just take a cheeseburger and some home fries, please." (Y/n) said politely, with a gentle smile. "Alright. I'll put these orders in for you two and I'll be back." "Thank you, Elaine." Jethro smiled. He turned his attention back to (y/n) and gave her a content smile. "A cheeseburger on the first date. That's something a bit different than I normally see women order."

(Y/n) took a drink of her coke and peanuts before responding. "Lemme guess. They'd normally order a salad on the first date." (Y/n) chuckled. "Usually, but not always." "Well, I usually don't go on many dates. But when I do, I normally order a salad when I know that I won't be seeing that person again." (Y/n) chuckled nervously. Jethro leaned forward, resting his elbows onto the table and taking one of (y/n)'s hands in his. "Do you really want to see me again after tonight?" Jethro asked cautiously. (Y/n) gave him a promising smile and a slight nod. "Yes, of course. Only if you're wanting to see me after tonight as well. And, if you would be willing to experience a busy schedule like mine." (Y/n) bit her lip and had the look of hope in her eyes.

"I'm glad you said that because I'd like to see you more after tonight as well." Jethro smiled. After Elaine brings their food out, Jethro and (y/n) get lost in conversation while enjoying their food. Jethro asked (y/n) about her childhood and what it was like to grow up in Oklahoma. (Y/n) asked him about his life before joining the Marines and about Stillwater, Virginia. When they finished their food, Jethro was about to grab the check when (y/n) snatched it out of his hand. "Jethro, you drove. Please, lemme get this. It's the least I could do." (Y/n) said with a smile. "Alright. But, only if you'll tell me what mountain oysters are." Jethro chuckled. (Y/n) leaned forward so that no one else could hear her besides Jethro. "Mountain Oysters are actually made from bull testicles." (Y/n) whispered, then standing up and making her way over to the register to pay.

After paying the check, (y/n) came back over to where Jethro was sitting, staring wide-eyed at the table in front of him. "Jethro, are you okay? Sweetheart, please blink." (Y/n) sat down next to him and rubbed his shoulder. "Huh. Oh, yeah I'm good. Are you ready to go?" He asked. "Yes, I am." (Y/n) stood back up and offered her hand to Jethro, who gladly accepted her hand. As they make their way back to Jethro's truck hand in hand, (y/n) noticed a camera flash from the bushes. "Jethro, run. Run to the truck. There's paparazzi." (Y/n) ordered, not wanting to have Jethro experience what paparazzi is like. They both sprint to his truck, he has her get into the truck through his side and he jumps into the truck after her. He then quickly, but carefully drives off.

"I am so, so sorry Jethro. I was really hoping there wouldn't be any paparazzi around. I don't even know how they knew where I was." (Y/n) said embarrassed, as she sat in the passenger seat. "Hey, it's alright. It's all part of the job, right?" Jethro soothed, giving her a small smile. "I just didn't want to make you uneasy with all of the cameras and flashing lights. I would understand if you changed your mind about wanting to see me again after what just happened." (Y/n) said, looking down at her hands. Jethro reached over and took her hand in his. She looked over at him a bit confused. "(Y/n), I don't care about the paparazzi, or the cameras and flashing lights. Or, about the busy schedules. I still want to see you after tonight and take you on more dates. I want to meet your friends and family. (Y/n), I want you. I want to be with you." Jethro reassured her. (Y/n) smiled at Jethro. She let go of his hand, unbuckled herself and slid over into the middle seat. She took Jethro's right arm, put it around her shoulders and leaned a bit into his side as they made their way back to the hotel.

@garcia-reid-lovechild

#leroy jethro gibbs fanfic #jethro gibbs x reader

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imnoexpertblog · 6 years ago

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Here's some stuff to do and listen to.

7/20/18

Are you ready to receive some suggestions to entertain your fine selves? ‘Cause I’m ready to give it.

For those who are local: My dad and brother run NYFO together for Green Bay. What’s NYFO? WELL. “NYFO 7on7 Football is the next generation of player development, no matter your skill set. NYFO is the NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY for 7on7 & Non-contact Football. Our leagues, camps, and training exist to ultimately transition better, safer, and more fundamentally sound knowledgeable players. NYFO is committed to helping every player in our program improve no matter their skill level. By doing so we will ultimately enhance the sport of football, from youth organizations through the NFL. NYFO is ‘Non-Contact’ For parents, ‘non-contact’ can be translated into ‘one-hand touch.’ Without the distraction of full-contact, players can focus on fundamentals. With so much negative media attention given to concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), 7on7 offers parents a safer alternative for kids wanting to play football.” Quick additional info: They offer programs for age groups 8U, 10U, 13U, 15U, and 18U. Go to their website if you’re interested in signing your kids up! Okay but anyway, if you need something to do this Friday you should go to a Bullfrogs baseball game! Bullfrogs “Stars Of Tomorrow” fundraiser family & friend tickets are $18 and include your ticket (duh), a Bullfrogs hat, a hot dog, AND a soda! A damn steal if you ask me. It helps out NYFO and you’ll have something fun to do! All registered players from NYFO get in free with and a portion of the proceeds from family/friends tickets sales going to the NYFO by simply using code “NYFO7on7” at the point of purchase. Go to greenbaybullfrogs.com, click Buy Tickets Now in the top right corner, and enter the promo code (NYFO7on7). Gates open at 6:05pm and the game is at 7:05pm! See you at the diamond on July 20th! Give them a follow on Instagram! @greenbay.nyfo

I never really blog about music for how passionate I am about it. I have mentioned before that I sing, too. I’d love music even if I couldn’t sing though. Anyway, everyone loves finding new music, right? I’m gonna tell you my most listened to artists and songs on my Spotify. First, I’ll tell you how I found this data. I found this question forum on this link: https://www.quora.com/Is-there-a-way-to-see-my-most-played-artists-songs-in-Spotify. You’ll see in the answer that there’s Spotify.Me or there’s ManageMyMusic to see your most listened to stuff. Spotify.Me is intricate and gives you information like your favorites, streaming habits, and listening insights. Apparently, what I listen to the most is considered to be a bunch of different types of “pop.” I don’t know if I agree with that. They also tell me that “I know what I want” because 84% of my favorite artists are within my most-listened to genre. That I can agree with. It says I’m high energy lately in my streaming choices, but I don’t see it. I have been choosing really chill music, in my opinion. The other link in that question/answer forum is called ManageMyMusic and it gives you a ton of lists; Top artists and tracks for the “Short Term (4 weeks),” the “Medium Term (6 months),” and for the “Long Term (Years).” I’ll give you my top ten for each category, though I know there will be overlapping. I obviously love everything I am about to include so please give this stuff a listen. You’re about to get an intimate peek at my soul.

Top artists -- Short Term (4 weeks)

Jon Bellion

Drake

Milky Chance

Hozier

Andrew Belle

Bazzi

Aaron Carter

Roy Woods

dvsn

Troy Sivan

I didn’t realize that I listened to that much Jon Bellion lately. I mean, he is fantastic. I just didn’t realize I listened to so much of him in the last month.

Top artists -- Medium Term (6 months)

Drake

Blackbear

Tory Lanez

Marc E. Bassy

Jon Bellion

Bazzi

Post Malone

Hozier

Aaron Carter

Sam Smith

I can say for DAMN SURE that Baby has heavily influenced who I listened to these past 6 months. Drake has always been my man but I never listened to Blackbear, Tory Lanez, or Marc E. Bassy before I met him.

Top artists -- Long Term (years)

Drake

Sam Smith

Troye Sivan

Andrew Belle

Justin Bieber

Jon Bellion

The Weeknd

Jessie Ware

Hozier

Tove Lo

None of that even remotely surprises me.

Top tracks -- Short Term (4 weeks)

Jessie Ware, You & I (Forever)

Hozier, Jackie and Wilson

Sabrina Claudio, Orion's Belt

Jon Bellion, Overwhelming

Jon Bellion, 2 Rocking Chairs

Vance Joy, Mess Is Mine

The 1975, Somebody Else

Jon Bellion, The Good In Me

JAHKOY, Still In Love

Young the Giant, Cough Syrup

This is all very "me" lately.

Top tracks -- Medium Term (6 months)

Alina Baraz, Show Me

6LACK, Learn Ya

Tory Lanez, I Sip

Blackbear, moodz (feat. 24hrs)

Marc E. Bassy, 4am

Tory Lanez, Skrt Skrt

Ansel Elgort, Supernova

Bazzi, Mine

Post Malone, Psycho (feat. Ty Dolla $ign)

R I T U A L, Better By Now

This list is definitely Baby-approved.

Top tracks -- Long Term (years)

Justin Bieber, The Feeling

Troye Sivan, WILD

ZAYN, PILLOWTALK

Snakehips, All My Friends

Tatiana Manaois, Helplessly

Bryson Tiller, Don't

Chris Stapleton, Tennessee Whiskey

Sam Smith, Not In That Way

Hozier, Work Song

A R I Z O N A, Let Me Touch Your Fire

Honestly, the first 5 tracks do surprise me a little, but that was back when I had my music on constantly when I was single and home alone quite often. I remember keeping those on repeat for hours at times, so I’m not sure how accurate that actually is only because of that fact. This was all super cool to see, though. Some of it was expected, some unexpected. Either way, I hope I gave you some new stuff to listen to! And you should check out for own profiles. Nice opportunity to learn a little about yourself.

This past weekend, it was pretty warm out. Baby and I wanted to get Nugget a sprinkler so I took the little one with me to the store aaaaand they were sold out. Due to all the warmth. So I bought Nugget some water guns instead. We got 2 smaller ones and 2 larger ones for THIRTEEN DOLLARS, TOTAL. YEAH. This s’mom was shocked by that price, that’s for sure. We played and sprayed when we got home. Baby and Nugget had some fun together. The first thing Nugget did when we filled his gun though was spray me right in the (get ready) vagina. Yes. Then he yells, “I’M SPRAYING YOU IN THE PARTS.” I was like, “Uhhhhh, let’s not spray anyone’s parts and also let’s talk about anyone’s parts. It’s not polite and those are private” LOL. He’s never said anything to me about private parts or anything so that was new to me. He walks into my room when I’m changing a fair amount of the time and I know for a fact he’s seen more than I meant him to, but he has never asked questions, pointed anything out, etc. I think it’s important to set an example for your children in the sense to be comfortable with their bodies and such. This might be a whole new chapter with Nugget! We will see. Enough about my “parts” and back to the water guns. Baby said that on one of the weeks that we don’t have Nugget, that he wants to do a water gun race with me. I got 2 free beach balls from Sprint when I got a new phone last week (among a ton of other free shit, which I'll tell y'all about soon) and Baby said we should see whoever can get the beach ball across our backyard the fastest by spraying them with the water guns. I honestly think that sounds more fun than any idea I've ever had LOL. It reminds me of when I almost bought us both Nerf guns. So, if things are little mundane (or even if they’re not) maybe you and your love should find your inner children together! Get water-balloons and have a water-balloon fight, chalk up your driveway, set up obstacle courses, have a scavenger hunt! You can make it interesting by making fun deals. Whoever loses has to make dinner, for example. I think we will try all of these ideas eventually.

Speaking of shopping with Nugget, I am in the process of teaching him about not asking for toys every time we go. Baby went through a break up after a 3 year relationship before we was with me. He told me that he felt awful that Nugget no longer had two people raising him and Baby made up for that by buying Nugget toys every time they went to the store. I could tell there was a reason why Nugget would ask like clockwork what toy he would get every time we went shopping. I have been working on breaking Nugget of that expectation, as well as working on having him appreciate the things he has at home. I explain to him Daddy and I only have a certain amount of dollars and that its usually only enough to buy what we needed from the store in the first place. He actually understands this concept very well. He always asks why we are going to the store, so I always have the opportunity to tell him what we need to buy. When we went to buy the sprinkler he asked me, "Can we get a toy from here?" and I replied with, "Buddy, remember what we came here for?" He answered correctly about buying a sprinkler. I said in a very positive tone, "Yep and I'm pretty sure we only have enough dollars for a sprinkler. And you also have a bunch of toys at home that you love to play with." We walked by a few things that piqued his interest. As we walked by some bubble-guns, he goes, "Oooh, those look fun. But we only have dollars to get the sprinkler." I was so proud of him for making this connection and also proud of myself for explaining it to him so that he really does understand this. I was raised by people who didn't explain things. It was always a "because I said so" type of world and I learned to accept it. I won't put Nugget in that world, though. I want him to recognize reasoning and be able to grasp why things are the way they are. He is incredibly intelligent and capable of knowing this information. I also want him to trust me and be honest with me as we grow together, so the first step is me trusting him and being honest with him first. Just wanted to share my super proud s'mom moment of the week. I'll be back tomorrow with new recipes for you!

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thesinglesjukebox · 6 years ago

Video

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LIL NAS X - OLD TOWN ROAD

[6.73]

We're gonna bluuuurb til we can't no more...

Katie Gill: The problem with "Old Town Road" is that it's more interesting as a thinkpiece than an actual song. The song charting, then being excluded, from the Billboard Country Music charts opens so many questions that can't be answered in one sitting. Is this a further example of the well-documented racism in country music? Or is this just a freak accident hick-hop song that vaulted it's way out of the depths of subgenre hell? Is a twangy voice and references to horses enough to make a song "country"? Does the presence of Billy Ray Cyrus in a remix that dropped on Friday legitimize the song's credentials or just make them worse? Where was all this controversy when "Meant To Be," an honest-to-god pop song, was holding steady on the charts? There are so many questions and so many points of conversation that spring out from this song, that it's a pity "Old Town Road" itself is just okay. Everything about it screams "filler track for the SoundCloud page," from the length to the trap beats to the aggressively mediocre lyrics. The song didn't even chart on it's own merits: it charted because it's used in a TikTok meme! This is like if "We Are Number One" or "No Mercy" made their way to the top of the iTunes charts and people decided to have a conversation about the limits of genre based on those charting. I'm a little annoyed, because the conversation around "Old Town Road" is something that country music should be having... but just not around "Old Town Road." [5]

Jacob Sujin Kuppermann: There are essays upon essays to be written about "Old Town Road" as a prism for the racial divides that have served as undergirding for the modern American genre system since the 1930s division between "hillbilly" and "race" records. It's the perfect hunk of think-piece fodder: a simple core question -- is it country? -- that can spiral out to all corners of culture until the song itself is obscured. So let's focus on the song, instead. Because beyond all world-historical significance, "Old Town Road" fucking bangs. It's all in the bait and switch of that intro -- banjos and horns plunking away until Lil Nas X's triumphant "YEAAAH" (second this decade only to Fetty Wap) drops and the beat comes in. It's a joke until it's not -- maybe you came in from the Red Dead Redemption 2 video, or from a friend of yours talking about the hilarious country trap song, or from the artist's own Twitter, which is more Meech On Mars than Meek Mill, but no matter the source, you'll find that "Old Town Road" has its way of looping into your brain, all drawls and boasts and banjos. It's meme rap, but much like prior iterations of this joke ("Like a Farmer"), Lil Nas X fully and deeply commits -- he doesn't drop the pretense for a single line, keeping the track short enough to not outlive its welcome while still exploring its weird conceit to its fullest. Yet even in its jokey vibe there's some actual pathos -- no matter how put on, the lonesome cowboy sorrow of Lil Nas X's declaration that he'll "ride till [he] can't no more" feels genuine. "Old Town Road" is everything at once, the implosion of late teens culture into one undeniable moment. [10]

David Moore: So here's a true gem of a novelty song -- a phrase I use with both intention and respect; I grew up in a Dementoid household -- that could launch a thousand thinkpieces about hip-hop, country, class, the object and subject of jokes, whether to call something a joke at all, you name it. But what I keep returning to is the economy of it, its simplicity, how there is so much in so little, the way that someone on the outside can grok things inaccessible to the insiders, maybe by accident or by studious observation and a fresh perspective, the way music can be a multiverse, characters from one world complicating or clarifying or confusing the limits of another in a mutually provocative way. I'm not a backstory guy, which is to say I'm not a research guy, which is to say I'm either intuitive or lazy or both, so I don't have any clue where this came from, but I know magic when I hear it, I know what it sounds like when you discover, or simply stumble into by accident, the path beyond the bounds of territory you presumed exhausted, territory that can always get bigger, always invite whole new parties to the party. It's a real party party; you can get in. [10]

Katherine St Asaph: "Old Town Road" is the "Starships" of 2019: a song that objectively is not great, but will be called great for the understandable reason that liking or disliking it now unavoidably entails choosing the right or wrong side. This tends to lead to hand-waving freakoutery about critics not talking about the music, man, but once The Discourse is out in the world, it becomes a real and critical part of the song's existence; not talking about Billboard punting "Old Town Road" would be like talking about "Not Ready to Make Nice" as an workaday country song. The problem is not quite as simple as "the Billboard charts don't want black artists," an argument with historical precedent but now doomed to fail: clearly, people like Kane Brown and Darius Rucker and Mickey Guyton (who's left off lists like this, somehow) have hits. It's more about respectability politics. Traditionalists hate the idea of memes, social media, and perceived line-cutting, all of which means they'll hate a song born not of the Nashville and former-fraternity-bro scene, but via TikTok and stan Twitter. But what they really, really hate is rap and anything that sounds like a gateway to rap; like if they tolerate this Cardi B will be next. Country radio, for the past decade or two, has been pop radio with all the blatant rap signifiers removed; its songs aren't about cowboys or horses but suburban WASP life. Of course, double standards abound. Talking about lean is out; talking about bingeing beer is fine. "Bull riding and boobies" isn't OK because it's from a guy called Lil Nas X -- I honestly think people would whine less if this exact song was credited to "Montero Hill" -- but "I got a girl, her name's Sheila, she goes batshit on tequila" is OK because it's from a guy called Jake Owen, and "Look What God Gave Her" is OK because it hides its ogling of boobies behind plausibly deniable God talk. Fortunately "Old Town Road" is better than "Starships" -- the NIN sample is inspired, and the hook is evocative and sticky. (It fucks with authenticity politics, too -- Lil Nas X wrote his own song, but the big corporate country artists often don't.) Its main problem is that it's slight: a meme that doesn't overstay past the punchline, a song that never quite gets to song size. [5]

Thomas Inskeep: Sampling Nine Inch Nails' "34 Ghosts IV" to (help) create a western motif is hands-down brilliant, so huge thumbs-up for that. Lyrically, this is pretty empty, a bunch of western clichés strung together -- but then again, the same can be said of plenty of Big & Rich songs. Split the score down the middle, accordingly. [5]

Scott Mildenhall: But surely this is how country music should sound? Lil Nas X has performed alchemy in combining two generic styles into something inspiring, flipping the meaning of "pony and trap" on its head. The mechanical sound of trap is rusted into the mechanical sound of fixing a combine, or at least pretending that is something you might do, and such performance is fun for all the family. Well, unless you're an American farming family tired of stereotypes anyway. [7]

Stephen Eisermann: Non country (trap) beat with subtle country instrumentation? Sounds like much of country radio, only way better! [7]

Nortey Dowuona: A burning, humming bass girds under sticklike banjos as Lil Nas X rides into town to water his horse and head back out onto the open road. [5]

Alex Clifton: I spent the weekend re-enacting this scene from Easy A with this song, so it's safe to say I like it. I especially love the "horse"/"Porsche" line, which is unexpected and amazing. [7]

Alfred Soto: The usual genre conversations threaten to smother analysis. If Lil Nas X can use trap drums, then why can't Sam Hunt use loops? Silly. (Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes: "The Constitution is what the judges say it is"). The Kanye allusion ("Y'all can't tell me nuthin'") works extra-diagetically. An assemblage of modest, discrete charms held together by a solid performance at its center -- nothing more. I await the Future-Frank Liddell collab. [5]

Edward Okulicz: It's affectionate and actually quite deferential in its treatment of its parent genres. Crossovers like this have been hinted at, and gestured towards in the other direction quite a bit of late (country artists affecting hip-hop, less so the latter), and the two genres have more in common than the caricatures of the sorts of people who are supposed to listen to them do. Of course, I mean those genres as they exist today, and not in the warped imaginations of purists. You can see why kids have latched on, and it's easy to snarl at Big Chart for sticking their oar in. The kids are right; artists control the means of production and radio and chart compilers can accept that they aren't the tastemakers, and attempts to force their tastes down other people's throats will lead to a backlash. This is not a brilliant song but it's a picture of one of many potential musical futures and, at two minutes, the perfect length too. The right response is to smile, and "Old Town Road" makes it easy to smile -- it's an earworm. Sure, it doesn't give me the same immediate feeling of fuck!!! this is the best that I got when I first heard that version of Bubba Sparxxx's "Comin' Round" but country music survived "Honey, I'm Good" and it will survive this. It might well thrive. [6]

Joshua Copperman: I recently found out that I have a moderate Vitamin D deficiency, but looking up the song everyone was talking about and hearing this basically confirmed that I should go outside more often. There are definitely things to talk about: it's the logical conclusion to "I listen to everything except country and rap" jokes when the inverse has taken over the Hot 100, and it's a song that's set to hit number one because everyone is incredulous that it exists at all -- with a Billy Ray Cyrus remix to boot. The conversations about what makes a song "country" are all fascinating, but it's hard to fully enjoy pieces about something that, as an actual song, is so fundamentally empty. The Nine Inch Nails sample is interesting, but like everything else, more intriguing in theory than execution. This will wind up on every site's "best of 2019" lists, and then in ten years people will snark on how a song with "My life is a movie/Bullridin' and boobies" was so critically acclaimed. As a meme/discourse lightning rod, it's an [8], as a how-to guide for late-2010s fame, it's a [10], but there's little appeal in a vacuum. Adding a bonus point, because music has never existed in a vacuum anyway. [5]

Taylor Alatorre: Remember when the internet was still described as a realm of lawless and limitless potential, when open source could be touted as revolutionary praxis and "free flow of information" was a sacred utterance? Now one of the key political questions is whether private companies should be doing more to banish online rulebreakers or whether the federal government should step in to delimit what those rules are. Whichever side ends up winning, it's clear that the wide open spaces of the Frontier Internet are rapidly facing enclosure. Montero Hill learned this the hard way when his @nasmaraj account was suspended by Twitter as part of its crackdown against spam-based virality. While Tweetdeckers are nobody's martyrs, it's a minor tragedy every time an account with that many followers and that much influence gets shunted off to the broken-link stacks of the Wayback Machine. Rules must be laid down, but their enforcement always entails loss -- the bittersweet triumph of civilization over nature that forms the backbone of every classic Western. Maybe Hill/nasmaraj/Lil Nas X had this loss in mind when writing the jauntily defiant lyrics of "Old Town Road." Maybe he was just riding the microtrends of the moment like he was before. Still, this particular microtrend -- the reappropriation of cowboy imagery by non-white Americans -- feels too weighty to be reduced to mere aesthetics. Turner's Frontier Thesis may have been racially blinkered to the extreme, but the myths and yearnings it spawned can never die; they just get democratized. So it makes sense that young Americans, even those who don't know who John Wayne is, would subconsciously reach out for the rural, the rustic, the rugged and free, just as we feel the global frontiers closing all around us. Our foreign policy elites hold endless panel talks about "maintaining power projection" and "winning the AI race," but most normal people don't care about that stuff. We're all secretly waiting for China to take over like in our cyberpunk stories, so we can drop all the pressures of being the Indispensable Nation and just feast off our legacy like post-imperial Britain. And what is that legacy? It's rock, it's country, it's hip hop, it's "Wrangler on my booty," it's all the vulgar mongrelisms that force our post-ironic white nationalists to adopt Old Europe as their lodestar. In short, it's "Old Town Road." We're gonna ride this horse 'til we can't no more, we're gonna reify these myths 'til we can't no more, because when the empire is gone, the myths are all we have. (Oh, and the Billy Ray remix is a [10]. Obviously.) [9]

Jonathan Bradley: People suppose that genre exists to delineate a set of sounds, and while it does do that, it depends even more on its ability to build, define, and speak for communities. The question of whether "Old Town Road" is a country song or not is in some ways easily resolved: country music showed no interest in Lil Nas X -- or at least not until Billy Ray Cyrus noticed an opportune moment to complicate expectations and grab headlines -- and so Lil Nas X's song was not country. Even taking into account its sound and subject matter, his hit is best understood as a burlesque on country music, one that parodies and exaggerates the genre's motifs and themes for heightened effect. The kids on TikTok, who turned the long-gone lonesome blues of the song's tumbleweed hook into viral content, understand this intuitively: they use the incongruity that clarifies at the beat drop as an opportunity to engage in caricature and costume. And while Lil Nas X, a huckster and a trendspotter before he was a pop star, has been happy to embrace the yee-haw mantle that has been bestowed upon him, his song is a familiar rap exercise in play and extended metaphor. The Shop Boyz did much the same thing with "Party Like a Rock Star" and it would be obtuse to suppose that was a rock song. And yet, as the country historian Bill C. Malone has written, country since its inception has attracted fans "because of its presumed Southern traits, whether romantically or negatively expressed"; there has always been a bit of schtick to this sound. I wondered when we reviewed Trixie Mattel whether country is, on some level, intrinsically camp, and it's tough to declare definitively that Lil Nas X's bold hick strokes are that much more stylized than Jake Owen's performance of small town ordinariness. And just as a country music based on cohesive community rather than sound has found itself broad enough to encompass northern hair metal, Auto-Tuned club stomps, and Ludacris, the gate-keeping involved in keeping Lil Nas X out begins to look suspicious. After all, the first song to debut on Billboard's Most Played Juke Box Folk Records chart, the predecessor to today's Hot Country Songs, was "Pistol Packin' Mama," a hillbilly goof by the decidedly uncountry combination of Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters. As Malone has written, "While the commercial fraternity thought mainly of profits, the recording men, radio executives, publicists, promoters, ad men, sponsors, and booking agents who dealt with folk music also readily manipulated public perceptions in order to sell their products." One of the ways they did that was to tap into already mythological figures of American individualism like the cowboy, who is, after all, a creature of the west and not the South. "The respective visions of cowboy and western life drew far more from popular culture and myth ... than they did from reality," Malone writes of the early country singers who embraced cowboy personae; in some ways Lil Nas X's purloining of meme interest in that same culture places him within a rich country heritage. After all, when in popular entertainment has shameless self-promotion not been part of the aspirant's trade? It does matter how cultural communities react to the music made in their name, but when certain people are adjudicated not fit for club membership, it is worth asking why. Country's culture, I said recently, is "one that's implicitly but not definitely Southern, implicitly but not definitely rural, and implicitly but not definitely white," and it's easy to see how Lil Nas X doesn't fit into that. Country music's racism isn't unique to the genre -- the historical hegemonies of punk and indie rock are at least as determinedly white -- but it is particularly visible. Country is racist like the South is racist like America is racist. Lil Nas X disrupts that settlement, helping us imagine a country music that genuinely encompasses the music of the American South -- a genre that has space for "This is How We Roll" and Miranda Lambert, Lil Boosie and Young Thug, "Formation" and Juvenile, and perhaps even Norteño and banda sounds. That would be, however, not only a far different country music to what we know today, but the music of a far different America. [7]

Iris Xie: Yeet haw! Aside from the great pleasure I've had in showing this to my friends, (Me, two weeks ago: "Have you heard this country trap song???" My friends, this week: "Iris, that song you're talking about now has Billy Ray Cyrus on it??") and either slinging back and forth memey references, engaging in discussions on the state of white supremacy in the music industry while also debating about the song's merit, or hearing my friends start singing "can't nobody tell me nothing..." very quietly at any moment and I can't help but join in -- it's all been very fun. Aside from making plans to play "Old Town Road" on my next country road drive to Costco, something that's occurred to me is that this is a song boosted by the status and calamity of its metanarrative. We could always use more discussions of the double standards that Black and POC artists face in the industry when it comes to genres and participating in it, and I'm honestly glad Lil Nas X just made something that was fun and made sense to him, even if "Old Town Road" doesn't stray too much from the conventions of both trap and country, resulting in a well-balanced mashup that sounds more safe than surprising to me, but is serene in its confidence nevertheless. On the flipside of that genre-mashing, Miley wishes and is probably very jealous of her father now for hopping onto this train, lest we forget about all of her cultural appropriation attempts. But for the song itself, those long, relaxed drawls and the imagery of riding a horse to the trap beat -- why not? We live in weird times now, Black people's contributions to country music were erased, and it's kind of a relaxing song. Also, I'm a fan of the "Can't nobody tell me nothing" lyric, which has become an unintentionally defiant line in the face of all the backlash, resulting in a message to rally around. Now excuse me, as I text my friends that "I'm gonna take my horse down to the old town road." [8]

[Read, comment and vote on The Singles Jukebox]

#Lil Nas X #country #pop #music #music review #writing

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snffbeebee · 7 years ago

Text

This is a request by the lovely @jackles-jadalecki , I hope Y'all enjoy !!!

Word Count - 2,055

It was a beautiful day in Texas, the sun was hot and you sat with a beer in your hand, across from one of your best friends Danieel. You had lost contact after she moved back here with her ex and one of the main actors on Supernatural, Jensen Ackles, aka Dean frigging Winchester. It had been at least 10 years since you seen each other, so you spent the whole day catching up.

" I mean don't get me wrong, I'll always love Jensen, but it just wasn't the same anymore. Besides the kids we didn't really have much to talk about anymore. Thank God it was a clean split because I don't know how some people get divorced and not speak to each other, specially if there are kids involved. " Danieel said, taking a swig of her beer.

" I take it the media has had a field day with all that. " You stated.

" Honestly it hasn't been as bad as I thought it was gonna be. We've kept our private lives pretty private. "

Right then you heard the front door open and turned to see him. Jensen frigging Ackles. You were a huge fan of the show and couldn't deny that you had always been a Dean girl.

" Speak of the Winchester. " Danieel laughed as she got to her feet and greeted him with a hug.

You couldn't help but smile back when he smiled at you. Jesus that man was even more beautiful in person...and tall..holy shit. You seen a smirk pull on Danieels lips as they made their way over to you.

" Jensen this is my collage best friend Y/N...Y/N this is my goofball of an ex Jensen. "

" Was she always this crazy ? " He laughed.

" Yeah pretty much. " You smirked at her.

After a few beers, you needed to get back, because you had a photo shoot to do the next morning and you were still jetlag from your flight this morning.

" Alright, I'm gonna call a cab, I gotta go get some sleep. Can't half ass tomorrow. " You said getting to your feet.

" No need to call a cab, I've gotta go pick up the kids, I can give ya a lift. " He smiled.

You shoved your phone in your back pocket and looked at him.

" Really, I can call a cab it's not a big deal. "

Jensen glanced at Danieel with a shake of his head.

" Are all your friends as stubborn as you. " He joked

" I'm giving you a lift. "

He leaned down and kissed Danieel on the top of her head with a smile.

" I'll have them call you before bed, I know that JJ won't let me forget about that..she never does. "

You hugged her then turned and smiled at Jensen.

" Alright, where to? " he asked as you guys walked out the front door and got into his car.

" I'm at the hotel down on 6th. "

" Hotel huh, just visiting? " He asked curious.

" Moving actually. I spent enough time in LA, I needed a change of scenery. " You said with a little laugh.

" So what made you come here? "

" Well I've been here a few times for photo shoots, and I just kinda fell in love. "

" Photo shoots huh..you in front of the camera or behind it? "

" I've had my share of being in front of the camera, but I prefer to be behind it. "

You guys talked all the way to your hotel and you didn't actually want to say goodbye to this man. You knew some things about him from being a fan of the show and of course talking to Danieel, but you found yourself wanting to get to know everything about him.

" So listen, did you want to grab a drink or something with me this weekend? I bring the kids to Dees on Friday morning, but I'm free Friday night. "

Your heart was racing..You couldn't believe that he was asking you out. You couldn't contain the smile on your face.

" I'd love to. "

That Friday night, you went and got dinner then ended back up at his place,had a few drinks and talked almost until 5 am. That was the start of something amazing. You spent a lot of time with him over the next 6 months. Even flying to Vancouver to check out the set and see him, Jared and everyone else in action and you were beyond start struck. It was about 2 am on Saturday morning and you guys were on the plane back to Texas when he took your hand in his.

" So how would feel about coming to Danieel's place for JJ's birthday party tomorrow?" He asked with a smile.

Your heart skipped a beat. You had seen pictures and he would talk non stop about them..but you didn't think that meeting them would terrify you this much.

" Are you sure? I mean what if they don't like me. " You said with a little laugh.

" Are you kidding, they are gonna love you..just as much as I do. "

His eyes burned into yours as he said those last words. This was the first time he had told you he loved you and it made your heart fill with happiness.

" You love me huh. " You smirked.

He ran his hand across your face with a soft smile.

" Its crazy because it's so soon, but yeah I love you. "

" I love you too. "

He smiled then leaned in and kissed you softly.

" So is that a yes? " He asked.

You thought for a second. If this was going to work out, you would have meet them..and Well you kinda already loved them just by the way Jensen talked about them.

" It's a yes. "

" Good! "

“ Alright, so that means I gotta go get her something before we go. “

“ You don’t have to do that. “

“ Yes I do..Come on you having kids you should know that having a present always helps. “ You laughed.

When you landed, you went back to Jensen’s house, got a few hours of sleep, then you got ready then you and Jensen went out shopping. You searched a few stores and then you found the perfect gift. The whole way to Danieel’s house your nerves were going crazy. Jensen took your hand in his as you walked onto the porch.

“ Just relax, you’ve already met everyone in there. “

“ Except the ones who actually matter at the moment. “ You laughed.

He leaned in and kissed you passionately, then you made your way inside.

“ Hey, you guys made it. “ Gen smiled as you guys came into the kitchen.

She kissed Jensen’s cheek and hugged you.

“ Where’s the birthday girl? “ He asked, looking around the back yard where everyone was.

“ They are all outside in the bouncy house. “

He squeezed your hand, then you went out into the beautiful backyard. You let out a shaky breath and he couldn’t help but let out a little laugh. Danieel smiled when she seen you and Jensen.

“ JJ, look who’s . “

Before she could finish her sentence, you seen her jump out of the bouncy house and run towards him.

“ Daddy!! “ She yelled, as he picked her up into a big hug and kissed the top of her head.

“ Happy birthday beautiful. “

You couldn’t help but smile when she looked at you.

“ JJ, this is Y/N . “

“ Is she your new girlfriend that mommy told me about? “ She asked.

“ Yes, she is. “

“ Hi. “ She smiled.

“ Hi, happy birthday. “

“ Thank you. “ She smiled, that smile that mirrored Jensen’s.

“ I got you something. “ You smiled, showing her the pink wrapped box.

“ Can I open it now Daddy? “ She asked, looking at him.

Your heart shuttered, she was a mini him.

“ Yeah, I think you’ll really like it. “ He smiled as he set her on her feet.

You bent down and held it, while she ripped the paper off the box. Her face lit up when she seen the little pink guitar on the box.

“ Daddy she got me a guitar!! “

“ Yeah, you’re Daddy told me that you liked playing his, so I thought it would be better if you had your own. “ You smiled.

Her smile, made your heart so happy. Jensen took the box from you and the moment your arms were empty, she wrapped her little arms around your neck and hugged you tightly.

“ Thank you Y/N. Daddy, can I go show mommy? “ She asked anxiously.

“ Yeah, go ahead baby. “ He kissed her, as she took the box from him and ran over to show Danieel.

You got to your feet with a huge smile on your face.

“ See I told you that she’d love you. “ He smiled, placing a kiss on your cheek then taking your hand in his.

“ Ah there are my other babies. “ He smiled as you walked over to Gen and Jared who had the twins playing on the grass.

“ Y/N this is Arrow. “ Jensen picked her up and kissed her noisily.

She was so beautiful.

“ Hey baby girl, Daddy missed you. “

You seen Zepplin sitting with Jared playing with some toy. You sat down next to Jared and smiled at the little Jensen. God that kid was going to be a looker.

“ And this handsome man must be Zepplin. Hey there. “ You smiled.

“ Zep, can you say hi? “ Jensen asked sitting next to you with Arrow in his lap.

Zepplin smiled and waved his hand. God you didn’t know why you were so nervous about this. His kids were amazing. You sat there and played with the kids for a bit, then Jensen went to help Danieel with JJ’s cake.

“ So you finally decided to introduce them huh. “ She smiled.

“ Yeah, I thought it was time, and she was nervous as hell. “ He laughed.

“ They seem to really like her. JJ couldn’t stop talking about that little guitar that she got her, the perfect gift by the way. “

“ Yeah that was all her. “ He said as he watched you play and laugh with Zepplin.

“ She’s got Zep, so I think she’s in. “ She smiled as she lit the candles on the cake.

He couldn’t help but smile. After everyone started to leave, Jared patted Jensen’s shoulder.

“ So they really seem to like her eh. “

Jensen looked over and seen Zepplin passed out on your chest as you talked with Gen and Danieel.

“ Yeah, I think I might keep her around for a while. “

Jared raised an eyebrow at him as he pulled out a little black box.

“ Are you serious? Have you talked to Danieel about this? “ Jared asked.

He slipped the box back into his jacket pocket with a smile.

“ She helped me pick it out. “

He knew this woman was the one who he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. And a year later, that’s exactly what you did. You had the wedding of your dreams and you couldn’t have been happier. You had an amazing husband, amazing friends, beautiful step kids, that you considered your own and a surprise for Jensen. You were sitting out in the backyard looking out at the view after putting the kids to bed. You had your head on his chest, your legs intertwined with his and your hands in his.

“ Hey Jay. “ You said looking up at him.

“ Yes my beautiful wife. “

“ How do you feel about adding another room to the upstairs? “ You asked.

“ For what? “ He asked.

It took him a second, but he finally caught on and sat up.

“ You’re pregnant? “

You smiled and nodded your head.

“ You’re serious? “ He asked still in disbelief.

“ Yes Jay, you’re gonna be a Daddy again. “ You smiled.

He leaned in, kissed you passionately then put his forehead to yours.

“ I love you Y/N “

“ I love you too. “ You whispered against his lips.

I hope Y’all enjoyed this fluff. It’s not much, but it was a little difficult to write someone else’s kids, but yeah...keep those Requests coming please!!!! Thanks again for all the love! You guys are amazing!!! <3

@ezilyamuzed @redlipstickandthewinchesters @angelkurenai @deans-jiggly-pudding @thekatherinewinchester @hunterswearingplaid @supernatural-teamfreewillpage @nanie5 @spndeanlover1967 @angelessquirrel @jamielea81 @nillavanilla21 @one-to-beam-up @mirandaaustin93 @bitterstar88

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echotunes · 3 years ago

Text

[video ID/transcript:

[Decision Dome]

Grian: Joel? Joel? Joel: Yes? Grian: Do you know what- do you know what we- despite, y'know, wanting to win MCC, do you know what we're gonna be working out today? Joel: What? Grian: Which one of us is the nerf. Joel: Ooo. (Grian and Fruit laughing) Joel: Scott. Scott: I am not (unintelligible) Fruit: No one is the nerf! Scott: I can tell you it's not me, Joel. Joel: Okay. Scott: I made the teams.

[at the end of Sky Battle]

Fruit: Wait. Grian: Wait, I got six— I— It says "Your kills: 6". Scott: Okay, Grian! Fruit: No, I think it's total. Joel: That's total, yeah, score. Scott: Oh, okay. Grian: Oh, alright, that's the team. [Chat shows the list of top 5 players this game. Grian is third with 762 coins earned] Grian: WHAT?! WHAT?! Scott: Grian was— What?! Grian: WHAT?! Joel: Nice! Scott: Okay, Grian! Carry! [Grian types "WHAT" in chat] Fruit: I did not do- I did not do the killing. [Chat shows the list of best players in their team. Grian is at the top with 762 coins, Fruit is at the bottom with 201 coins] Scott: Oh, Fruit at the bottom, Grian, you're carrying this game! Joel: (laughs) Fruit lost! What is going on? Fruit: I didn't kill anyone, I was just doing the building! Grian: Ah! Ahh!

[in the lobby between games 3 and 4]

Grian: I'm having a great time. Mainly 'cause we're doing well. Scott: Yay! Joel: Yeah, let's go! Scott: You mean it's not because you're on your team with your friends? Grian: What? Scott: That you love— That you love lots and lots? Grian: Sorry, what? Scott: What? (Grian laughing) Scott: I gave up my bed for you the other weekend. (pause) You will cherish our friendship, whether you want to or not. Grian: I cherish— I cherish all of you. Scott: Aww.

[during TGTTOSAWAF]

[Grian and Philza punching each other in-game] Scott: I got punched by someone. Grian: Phil! No! Stop!

[at the end of Survival Games. Grian and Scott are dead and spectating, Joel and Fruit are still alive, along with Sylvee from Green Guardians. The border is shrinking to its smallest possible capacity at the center of the fountain]

Joel: We're last, we're s— last, put these up! Fruit: —Boat, put the boat, put the boat! Joel: Sylvee! Grian: Sylvee's in the middle! Scott: Y'all are— go on, I believe! [Joel kills Sylvee, winning the game for Purple Pandas] (Scott cheering) Grian: (clapping) YES! YES! Joel: Let's go, guys! Grian: YES, TEAM! LET'S GO! (whoops) Scott: Yay! Joel: Let's go! Sixteen hundred coins! Grian: Oh my goodness gracious me! (more whoops) Scott: Oh my goodness— Joel: How are we doing? Scott: —We got four thousand coins in that! Joel: Let's go! Grian: LET'S GO! Scott: Four thousand coins! Grian: You guys popped off! Joel(?): Oh my gosh! Scott: You literally popped off right at the end! [Chat shows the list of top 5 players this game. Fruit is in first with 1808 coins, Joel is in second with 1608 coins] Joel: Let's go, Fruit! Grian: Oh, LET'S GO! Scott: Okay! Fruit: Oh my god!

[just before the beginning of Ace Race]

Scott: I've only practiced the new tridents on this map three times. Only three. Fruit: What?! No way! No way! (repeating) Scott: That was a joke, that was (unintelligible) Grian (loudly): Sarcasm! Don't- nobody- nope! Scott: Slash J! Slash J! Slash J! (repeating) Grian: That was sarcasm, he didn't really! Scott: Literally, when my team were asking the group chat about, like, Grid— Grid Runners, like "I do not know anything, I have not played it. (Fruit(?) laughs) Like, I was like, "I genuinely do not—" Joel: He told us that he'd played it on the MCC practice server under a fake alias— (Grian laughs) Scott: (sing-song) Joel's tryna get me cancelled! (Joel laughs) Joel's tryna get me cancelled!

[in the lobby between games 7 and 8]

Grian: Right, who's sand master if we get Sands of Time? Joel: Uh, Scott said he'd do it. Scott: I'll be— I'll be Sand Daddy. Joel: (loudly exhales) Okay. Scott: I will only answer to Sand Daddy, as well. Grian: I— I will— I will be referring to you as Sand Daddy. Scott: That's all I want. Yep. Fruit: I'll— I'll also refer to you as Sand Daddy. Scott: Thank you, thank you. Joel: I will not. (Grian and Fruit laugh) Scott: Nope, Joel, you have to. Joel: I can say whatever I want. Scott: Otherwise I won't tell you, I won't tell you how much time there is. Grian: Scott's gonna throw the game. (laughing) If you don't refer to him as Sand Daddy. Joel: How are you gonna tell Fruit and Grian but not me? Just like, message them? Scott: I'll whisper them. Joel: Whisper them? Scott: Yep.

[between game 8 and Dodgebolt]

Scott: 14th! 14th individual. Grian: I came 11th! Scott: There we go! I was the nerf! (Grian laughs) Fruit: I— ugh. Scott: 'Cause Joel's 6th! I was the nerf, guys! Joel: So all the people in the subreddit who put me lower twenty! SIXTH! Fruit: I was third by 26 coins. Scott: We all— We all had our games that we did well at. Grian: So— Fruit— Fruit— Joel: Wait, what? Grian: Fruit was 3rd, I was 11th... Scott, you were the nerf! Scott: Yup. Joel: (laughs) I said it at the start! I said it at the start! Scott: I was the nerf— I was the nerf at 14th. If that's our nerf, I'll take it. (Grian laughs)

end ID/transcript.]

a compilation of MCC16 Purple Pandas moments to dilute the disappointment <3

#!!! :D purple pandas my beloved #mcyt #video #mcc #mcc 16 #echo.transcripts #grian #smajor #smallishbeans #fruitberries #long post #faves

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praphit · 6 years ago

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Slender Man: They hate him cuz they ain't him

It was a big weekend in movies! We were torn between two films. There was of course "BlackkKlansman" - this movie has strong acting, the amazing and quite possibly the angriest director out there Spike Lee, and even that Adam Driver guy I feel has been on the come up. Tons of social commentary: important thangs to talk about concerning race, this nations history with slavery, and the current state of our government... good stuff! Hittin all of the issues! - BUT, that's not the movie we chose to see.

We naturally went with "Slender Man" instead.

You might say "But, John Praphit, BlackkKlansman has Denzel Washington's son, important issues, and powerful directing... what were you thinking?"

Hey, don't sell The Slender Man short - he has with him... um... Joey King! And... Julia Goldani Telles.

You say "Who the hell are they?"

Yeah, idk. I've also never heard of the production companies or the director, BUT that might only mean they haven't had their fair shot; this could be it! And maybe Slender Man is also filled with the social issues of the day; you don't know! - but I'm here to tell you:)

Let's take a look at SM here -

He's really rockin that no face thing isn't he?? See, many might try hair with the lack of a face. I think no hair is a good call. Imagine Slender Man with an afro;

he'd look ridiculous. And that suit - are you kiddin me??! YES! I mean, idk why he needs a nice suit when he only hangs out in the woods, but... he's prepared. We all have that friend who's always overdressed; though we may make fun of them, part of us kinda wants to be them. Idk what's going on with those tentacles/ tree limbs growing out from behind him... he must be self-sonscious of them though, because whenever they start to show in this film, they cut away. He's got too much style to be a horror movie monster. Perhaps this well dressed creature is simply misunderstood.

Despite his dreaminess, this movie stars more than SM, but these fine what's-their-name actresses. The movie starts off with four girls, who have been close friends for a while, who have a hangout featuring vodka, porn, and occult stuff. One thing I appreciate about this movie is that they get into the horror quickly. There's a lil build up to show how close they all are, and some family atmosphere, but then we're right into the scary.

I have to mention the family dinner :) It must be an art form to capture genuine dinner scenes, cuz this one didn't have it. One of the daughters in the dinner scene only drank water... I mean no eating of anything... she had food, why just the drinking of water... curious. And there's a dad in the beginning dinner scene who's buttering his bread for like 5 mins. I was thinking at the moment "Is anyone going to bring up daddy's butter problem?" He was just buttering and buttering and asking the kids about their days, and right back to buttering.

(the war ain't over for this family)

Sooooo, back to the vodka, porn, and occult.

THAT, my friends is a hell of a weekday (school night) hangout. The gathering around the Tv for pornography and summoning of demonic beings are to be expected - their kids, let them have fun! BUT, the drinking! - Parents, be better! Their ruined teenage livers are on you.

It's straight forward. They watch some weird vid (kinda like "The Ring") and the craziness begins. Apparently, after watching this vid, you may start to see The Slender Man; if you do he's got you. You will either end up missing or go crazy... or both, I guess. One of their friends goes missing, and they begin their search for answers. They end up asking some stranger that they met on the internet for advice, and this stranger tells them to offer Slender Man something of value to them in exchange for their friend.

Ok, so let's rewind. They follow a STRANGER'S advice to go into the woods and sacrifice things of value to some supernatural being. They do this dumb thing, but they kinda half-ass it. Their "things of value" end up being a photograph, something one of them made in arts & crafts... and like a lucky T-shirt or something. Your friend has just been kidnapped! You may want to dig a lil deeper. "Here Slender Man, let me offer you my last chicken nugget. I'm full anyway. Can I have my friend back?"

The Slender Man must have thought to himself "Arts & Crafts? Really? These girls must be trying to punk me." He then spends the rest of the movie making them regret their poor sacrificial decisions.

When the cool and creepy gets going, it doesn't stop, and it's very effective. I love how they mess with the audiences heads with the imagery. You'll start seeing Slender Man everywhere. They don't rely on cheap gore scenes and jump scares, which I also appreciated about this movie. They even use scenes that lead you to believe something horrific is about to happen, but then it won't... not in a disappointing way, but it's intense. Well done!

The two actresses that I mentioned earlier are also good in this movie.

One of them has that glassy-I-could-cry-at-any-moment-eyes. She'll make you feel her pain.

There's another actress in here who does a good job at making us believe she's scared. It's like they gave her hallucinogens and filmed her having a bad reaction.

This is another one of those supernatural monster movies when everyone just kinda has to guess what to do. Sometimes, in these types of movies there's an expert of sorts, but the only "experts" here are strangers online.

I enjoyed this movie:)

Though, when I say they had to figure things out (and I understand that), there are things they should have known to do and to not do. There are plenty of things that the writers either didn't think about or didn't care about.

The kids for example, run out into the middle of the woods AT NIGHT to sacrifice their items, which no one told them to do. Literally, the middle of the woods! Forget Slender Man, there are all kinds of things that could happen out there. Which again, parents, you're bleeping up!

And about these parents, where the hell were they?! Some of these parents are barely around (buttering bread), while others are never around. One of your kids was just abducted! More of them are losing their minds! WHERE ARE YOU?!

There is one slight spoiler I'll throw in - one of their friends (who happens to be black)... something happens to her, and when her friends find out the state that she's in, they simply say "I knew something was up with her", and keep going! They could have helped her, but NOPE.

What about the teachers? These kids are in highschool. One of the kids actually gets lost on a school trip. No help from the school. No accountability, apparently and no concern. Some of these kids are losing their minds on school property. Those teachers just kept on with the lessons. Not even the other students help out these main girls or are even concerned. We're all just going to pretend like students are going crazy and missing?

Lastly, the police! Almost no police in this movie. No one questioned, no protection, no investigation. It's kinda like kids get screwed over so much in this town that the police have given up.

This all sounds like a lot bad writing ( and it is), but it also kinda adds to the fun. There will be those who will heavily downgrade this movie, because they are Slender Man lore purists, and apparently on that level this movie doesn't begin to measure up. Idk nothing about that, soooo I went in fresh, and enjoyed my new friend Slender Man. That's right, he's my buddy. I still say he's misunderstood. I mean, he IS out in the woods, and we DO see him coming after the kids, but what does that prove?. Maybe SM is a nicely dressed homeless man just trying to get by in the woods. Maybe these kids are just out in the woods doing shrooms (way to go, parents) and falling into holes never to be seen again. Live the Slender Man alone! The man doesn't have a face! - I'm sure his life is hard enough as it is.

Or maybe he's murdering kids out there, idk. You be the judge. Though I admit that certain pics you'll find on the internet aren't helping me prove his case.

Grade: B

Everyone who factored into this movie's 15% rating on RT are just haters. They're just jealous of my main man SM and his fly suits. They hatem cuz they ain't him.

Some of you might be saying, "But, Praphit, I'm sure this movie is aiight, but BlackkKlansman had those important social topics!"

I could argue that "Slender Man" does as well.

#1 - The black girl that her friends just kinda leave behind. I mean, seriously, what the hell? #blacklivesmatter

#2 - Lesbians - two of the friends in the group sure were close... like real close. Some may think I'm reading into things that aren't there, but I say these characters were forced to remain in the closet. But, maybe their parents found out... maybe that's why none of them are ever around. They couldn't bear that forbidden love. Apparently, The Slender Man does his thing around the bible belt.

#3 - Missing Kids! Not something I used to think about, but now whenever I go into a new town, I check to see how many kids go missing there and how often. If it's an alarming rate, I'm out! When SM is done with the kids he might start on the adults. Besides, if the cops are letting this many lost kids slide without an investigation, what else would they turn a blind eye to?

#4 Mental Illness - perhaps people we label as mentally ill are the ones in the know. Maybe we should all start listening a little more.

Y'all can come to me. I'm here for you. I'll listen. The next time you're out in the middle of the woods (because a stranger online told you to) and you notice a man with no face, wearing awesome suits, with trees growing out of his ass you can tell me. I'll listen and get you the help you need:)

#slender man #john praphit #praphitproductions.com #horror monsters #Horror Movies #Movie Reviews #praphit #butter

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