#Above the Mendoza

[immunorabbit]

jordyn-mae thomas - extremely common surname in general, both given name and surname are mostly found in the US

kairi herring - japanese given name, surname also mostly found in the US. kairi is also often seen in india, estonia and many african countries

tahira rashid - both given name and surname are of arabic origin. both are pretty common but are mostly seen in countries like pakistan, bangladesh and india

freyja maria mendoza - icelandic given name, but surname is hyspanic and the middle name also suggests the same. maria is extremely common so it's hard to say, but mendoza is most often seen in mexico, venezuela and peru

nora qu - name really common in the US while qu is a common chinese surname. also seen in taiwan

morgan moretti - same as above name is really common in the US, surname also found in the US but it's of italian origin where it's also most common

mayra tikuna - given name is mostly seen in mexico, but both seem to be mostly common in brazil. surname seems to be quite rare though. might also be related to the indigenous people ticuna (also sometimes spelled tikuna) and since mayra is 2spirit i thought it was worth mentioning

joy sinclair - given name is pretty common but most common in nigeria and kenya. surname is most common in the US and jamaica

nataana nchoko - both given name and surname seem to be very rare. both are most common in kenya. interesting how the girl with the least info also has a name that's hard to find info on...

and of course.

xiomara huapaya - not as common as the others (minus nataana). surname seems to be most common in peru and costa rica, while given name is mostly seen in cuba, nicaragua, and some other central american countries

[isabellamagic]

Diana and 47 things I commissioned part 3, aka my favorite batch

Let's kick it off with the thing that actually started this entire "isa throws money into the fire for hitman commissions" journey

Airport chibis

I wanted a custom fourana figure so I made the drawing above for the clay artist to follow (I had more refs but this was the main part)

For the figure, I love the hair shading, it's super cool, the way the artist matched my chair design 1:1 was pretty neat, and the tiny bag next to Diana was so carefully made, it's impressive

One thing to note is that I wasn't given any updates during the figure making progress, so I'm a little bummed about it. The expression didn't 100% match my idea, and the way they sit wasn't really natural lol. I had to do some adjustments after I received the figures (paint smears, cracks, leaning issues), so I wish they had allowed me to give feedback during the process

This was the first thing I commissioned, while it took a while to be finished (sep 2023-july 2024), I do like how they turned out, quirks and all

Bonus agent burnwood and miss 47, and also my nails I guess

Tiny posable dolls

Once again, my drawing was used as a reference. These cost so much for such a tiny size that I would probably never do it again lmao ($150!!!!!!)

I do have nendoroid dolls in mind for the future though, but they will require more time since I have to source many parts like faceplates, hair sculpts, outfits, shoes ect

Despite the insane price, these are indeed very cute, and I'm glad my design was just slapped onto their faces, they look like my drawings have come to life and that's super cool

Last but not least,

Papercut drawing based on @/inuitaiyo's fanart:

+ desk setup, I finally found clothes for the plushies

I saw SUN's fanart years ago and it's been lingering in my mind ever since, so when I found an artist that can do papercut drawings, my mind immediately went to that artwork. It's my favorite 47 diana fanart, it's so subtle and amazing, and SUN's gorgeous style was the cherry on top. I'm glad that the artist I worked with managed to capture what I love about the original artwork

I had total control over the entire process of this comm, so I added a neat little detail: If you look under Diana's hair, you can kinda see her eyes looking down at 47's lips ehehehe. I made sure that was gonna happen no matter what lol. I'm so happy it worked so well

That's all for now. Next time should hopefully be me finally getting custom fourana nendoroid dolls + a 1/6 scale mendoza diana doll. We'll see, money is a limited resource after all

One more link to SUN's art to end this because I think it deserves so much more love

[dragonnarrative-writes]

Kinktober Day 1 - Voyeurism

Kate Laswell x Bricks (CIA Asset OC)

CW: Dub-con/Non-con voyeurism (one person is not aware they are being watched), surveillance, sex work, dirty talk, degradation, impact play, daddy kink, too many mirrors, too much setup and an abrupt ending, big dogs

“Got me Watcher?” Bricks covers the movement of her mouth by touching up her lipstick in the mirrored wall of the elevator.

“Coming in clear,” Kate answers. “Go ahead and run a final calibration on the lenses.” She marks the edges of the camera range as Bricks sweeps her eyes in a practiced pattern to confirm the fit and function of the contacts. When she crosses her eyes and sticks her tongue out, confusing the feed, Kate chuckles. “Save it for Mendoza.”

“Please,” Bricks snickers. “My best is wasted on him.”

The doors open. Two large men, Mendoza’s bodyguards, usher Bricks forward. Real professionals, Kate notes, neither of them letting their eyes linger on stunning legs or exposed cleavage. One waves a wand over her, hair to heels, and the other takes the clutch from Bricks’ hand. He rifles through it, then doesn’t give it back.

“My second best lipstick is in there,” Bricks protests, half-heartedly. “I’m gonna want that back, later.”

“You’ll get it back when you leave,” the man grunts. “Come with us please.”

“Give me doors,” Kate instructs as they proceed down the hall. The cameras flick almost aimlessly as her asset strides between her escorts, but Kate is ready. “Left again,” she murmurs, quickly tagging frames for review. “Good girl.”

Once Bricks is handed off to Mendoza, the real work starts. Dinner goes as expected. Mendoza brags and paws. Bricks is charming, flirty, and teasing. She plays every bit of her part while Kate half listens and reviews data on the guards. Contractors, she notes as Bricks titters about something. Mendoza is just oggling her tits, so Kate continues reading the dossier. Contractors, good ones. Ex-military, but unlikely to see Bricks for the threat she is. The only problem will be-

“Puppies,” Bricks coos, as two Rottweilers come trotting up to the table. “I love dogs. How old are they?”

“They’re trained as part of the security detail,” Kate states as Mendoza goes on about pedigree. “German commands.”

Bricks kisses one of the dogs on the snout. “Do they know any tricks?”

“They’re trained killers,” the mark brags. “Only listen to me and designated handlers.”

“The handler command is folge mir,” Kate provides. Luckily, Bricks isn’t able to comment on her abysmal accent. “Ruhig. Geh runter.”

It doesn’t take long for Mendoza to send the dogs away, tired of not being the center of attention. And Bricks plays him like a fiddle, drawing him all around the penthouse to give Kate sight lines, the layout, and an unobstructed view of the server room through the kitchen.

When he finally catches her, Kate cant help but snort. “Is he as bad a kisser as he sounds? Your not usually this all over the place."

Bricks doesn’t bother to hold back a soft laugh. Mendoza lifts his mouth from her neck with an almost affronted grin. “What’s so funny?”

“Sorry,” she giggles, with a peck to his lips. “Ticklish, and I just feel good with you.”

“Can I make you feel better?”

“Here’s hoping,” Kate mutters as she counts server racks in Bricks’ periphery. The woman’s laugh rings off the marble counter tops.

Kate doesn’t bother watching the feed as Bricks kisses Mendoza down the hall, eyes closed to avoid any chance he might notice her contacts. When she opens her eyes again, Kate stifles a groan and pulls out her cigarettes. Mendoza’s bedroom has an entire wall of mirrors, and another on the wall above his headboard. Bricks kisses him some more, but in no time, she’s bent over the bed, looking at her own breasts nearly spilling from the top of her dress.

She’s there for… a lot longer than Kate expected. Whatever Mendoza is doing, she looks as bored as she ever does when she’s in character. Kate decides to step in when she moans, rote.

“Oh no,” Kate chuckles, grinning when Bricks’ eyes snap to her reflection. “I know you can do better than that. If I have to watch you have sex, you’re going to make it worth my while. Get that ass in the air, lets’s see if Mendoza can’t be good for something.”

Bricks’ next moan is much more resonant. Mendoza echoes her as he bends over her back, no doubt pressing his cock against her barely there panties.

“Ask for a spanking,” Kate commands, lighting a cigarette. “Ask nice, the way I like.”

“Please spank me, daddy,” Bricks moans, holding eye contact with the mirror, staring directly at Kate.

“Good girl, there you go,” Kate purrs, over Mendoza’s tiresome noises. “Too bad he’s going to be such a shit lay. You’re right, your best is wasted on him. Say thank you.”

Bricks hisses after Mendoza gives her three quick, sloppy strikes. “Thank you, daddy.”

“Fuck, you’re a slut, huh?” Mendoza flips her, and Kate laughs to see the mirrored tiles on the ceiling. “I can be your daddy, baby girl.”

“I’m tired of hearing his voice,” Kate scoffs. “Put his mouth to use.”

Bricks opts to grab a fistful of his hair and drag the man down her body. Kate gets to enjoy the view of her, chest heaving and disheveled as she winks up at her reflection. There’s no rolling eyes - there’s nothing of interest in the room, really, and Mendoza is apparently all noise and no skill.

“Touch yourself,” Kate commands. “Give yourself a show, beautiful.”

Bricks draws the fingers of her free hand down her neck, toying with her necklace before pushing the fabric of her dress down beneath full breasts. Kate makes an appreciative noise when she pinches a nipple. The woman in the mirror moans and arches her hips into the mouth between her thighs. Her eyes go half-lidded, when Mendoza pulls away to pant against her, one hand working its way up to prod at her. He groans something about “wet” and “tight,” like he had anything to do with the first and doesn’t understand the implications of the second.

“Please,” Bricks moans at her reflection.

“Oh,” Kate chuckles, “Is he really that good?”

“Roll over,” Mendoza growls as he stands. He’s dropped his pants and underwear.

“No,” Kate snorts. “I’m not watching your bored face as you compare him to Ghost. Ride him.”

All it takes is one skilled twist of Bricks’ hips before Mendoza is lying on his back, groaning under the woman Kate could command to kill him at any moment.

But Kate simply sits back in her chair. “Finish him off before I finish this cigarette, and I’ll let you come.”

Bricks narrows her eyes at the mirror. Kate can almost hear her calculating how long it’s been since she heard the click of the lighter. And then she balances on the balls of her feet and Kate grins as she watches the woman tear Mendoza’s orgasm from him with brutal efficiency.

“Good girl.”

[porterdavis]

How to get seasick on dry land

The Los Libertadores International Pass, is one of the most impressive routes that connect Argentina and Chile through the Andes Mountains. Located at more than 3,200 meters above sea level, it is a vital corridor that connects the Argentine city of Mendoza with the Valparaíso region in Chile.

Credit: Flash Curiosidades

[boxboxblog]

Ex-Driver Profiles: Sergio Perez

Updated December 2024

Name: Sergio Michel "Checo" Pérez Mendoza

Age: 34

Nationality: Mexican

Years in F1: 14 (2011-2012 Alfa Romeo Sauber, 2013 Mclaren, 2014-2020 Force India/Racing Point, 2021-2024 Red Bull)

Number: 11

WDCs: N/A

Driving Style: Perez is most well know for his patient and defensive driving style. He regularly is able to hold off stronger and faster cars behind him for extended periods of teams, meaning he holds position well and also is an asset while defending his teammate. Perez is also known to have great tire management skills, often patiently waiting until his rivals tires wear out before going on the attack with his better-maintained ones. He is also excellent in complex weather conditions, including full wet and wet-dry. A downside of Perez's style is that he struggles with consistency and setting a qualifying pace. He often is outpaced and out qualified by his teammates, especially his current one.

History:

Born not to a legacy racing family but involved in racing nonetheless, Perez began his karting career in 1996 when he was six years old. In his first year of competition he achieved four victories in the junior category and was 2nd in the standings as a rookie karter. In 1997, he participated in the Karting Youth Class, where he was the youngest driver in the category, and had a positive year, finishing 4th in the championship. The next year, in 1998, he would become the youngest driver to win the championship in that same category.

(Perez in karting)

In 1999, he raced in the 80cc Shifter category, finishing 3rd in the championship. He actually was too young to race in this category, but obtained special permission to do so and was the youngest driver to achieve a win in the category. In 2000 he would go on to do much of the same, regularly being the youngest in the categories he race din. He would soon draw the attention of various sponsors and national racing organizations. The next few years of his career would yield similar positive results, though he did not win any titles.

In 2005 Perez moved from Mexico to Europe in order to compete in the German Formula BMW ADC Series. His first year in this series would not yield super positive results, but he would improve in the 2006 season, improving to 6th in the standings. In 2007 he would switch into Formula 3 for the first time. He competed in the National Class and would win his first title that year. In 2008 he would compete again, but only get 4th in the standings.

(Perez racing in Formula BMW)

Pérez joined GP2 in 2008 for the GP2 Asia Series 2008-2009. He was the first Mexican driver to compete at this level of motorsport since Giovanni Aloi took part in International Formula 3000 in 1990. He would show significantly positive results in this series, bringing home multiple podium finishes and sprint race wins. 2009 he would switch to the main 2009 GP2 Series. Pérez finished 12th in the standings, with a best result of second coming at Valencia. His 2010 run in GP2 would be a lot better, ending the season 2nd in the standings.

(Perez after a win in GP2)

Late 2010 it was announced by F1 team Alfa Romeo Sauber that Perez would be joining their team for the 2011 season. Through this, Perez became the 5th Mexican to compete in F1. During the time of the announcement, he also became a Ferrari Academy Driver. Perez had a relatively average rookie season with Sauber, finishing in points positions a few times. He would finish that year 16th in the standings after. bad crash knocked him out of three races. 2012 was a better year for Perez, as he achieved his first podium in Malaysia, and two more during the season. He finished the year in 10th, above his teammate.

(Perez on first podium)

In 2013 Lewis Hamilton vacated the Mclaren seat and Perez was announced as his replacement, ending his relationship with the Ferrari Driver's Academy. He would have a middling year withe Mclaren, his highest finish being 4th. He would also have friction with teammate and WDC Jenson Button, who described his driving style as 'overlyaggressive'. Perhaps this is why later Perez evolved into a cautious and patient driver.

(Perez, right, with Mclaren teammate Jenson Button)

In 2014 Perez would join Force India, and solidify himself as a midfield driver. For a majority of his career with the team he would be a steady driver, most often outpacing his teammates. He achieved a few podiums with them, but also had moments of disaster, famously suffering several crashes throughout his time. He outlasted the Force India name, and was retained when the team became Racing Point in 2019. He would achieve his first win with Racing Point at the 2020 Bahrain GP, an energetic race that allowed him to show his skill. All in all, his time with midfield teams yielded good results for him, often outperforming his teammates and pulling the car to higher positions than it should be. That year it was announced that he would be joining Red Bull for the 2021 season, replacing Alex Albon.

(Perez after first win)

His time with Red Bull would be a mix of bad and good. During this time, he would regularly achieve podiums and a few wins. In 2021 he would finish 4th in the standings. While this was deemed a positive result, his teammate finished first and it put some scrutiny on Perez. 2022 saw Perez finish 3rd in the standings, behind his teammate in 1st and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc. That would also be the year he achieved his maiden pole position, at the Jeddah GP. 2023 was his best year in F1, being one of few drivers to win a race that year other than Max Verstappen. He would finish 2nd in the standings behind Verstappen, and help Red Bull win another WCC. He would also help Red Bull win their first ever 1-2 in the championship.

(Perez with teammate Verstappen, 2021)

2024 was a very bad year for Perez, having multiple DNF's, crashes, and no points finishes. This was especially pronounced because his teammate Max Verstappen won the drivers championship that year, while he only finished in 8th, the biggest teammate gap since the 90s. This led to Perez losing his seat for the 2025 season, being replaced by Liam Lawson.

(Perez on the podium at the 2024 Austria GP)

Major Races:

2012 Malaysian GP - Perez's highest finish of his career then, and his first pole position. He displayed excellent tire management, completing a long stint and maintaining a competitive pace.

2014 Bahrain GP - His first podium with Force India. Perez displayed his famous defensive driving, holding off much faster cars for the entire race.

2020 Bahrain GP - Perez's first win in his last year with Racing Point. He had the greatest comebacks in his career, after being spun to the back of the grid. It was a remarkable race as he battled his way to 1st, and is the race that won him His Red Bull seat.

2021 Baku GP - His first win with Red Bull. Baku would become a track that he is known for competing well around. He held off Lewis Hamilton (who was fighting his teammate for the championship) the whole race. Many attribute his win in Baku as a major part of Verstappen's first WDC.

2022 Monaco GP- Monaco is famously a tricky circuit, and he raced extremely strategically, outmaneuvering both Ferrari's to win. It was also yet another race where Perez showed his skill in wet-dry conditions.

Cheers,

-B

[soft-girl-musings]

Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps - CHAPTER 4 (My Funny Valentine)

Noir!Jake Lockley x WOC Lounge Singer!Reader

written in collaboration with + header by @mrs-lockley

chapter 1 chapter 2 chapter 3 chapter 5

cross-posted to ao3

tags: late 1940s Noir AU, Reader is WOC coded but with no physical description besides being slightly taller than Jake while wearing heels, no use of Y/N, mentions of injury/fixing it (stitches), brief songfic portion (c'mon you knew it was coming)

wc: 3.4k

fic summary: Of all the gin joints in all the world, Jake Lockley walks into yours. Unfortunately for him, it's not quite the start of a beautiful friendship.

chapter summary: patching things up.

__________

“He doesn’t look like he’d be this heavy.”

It’s hard to keep your voice down while hauling a grown man up the narrow stairs of your apartment. Bloodied and fazed, Jake dangles between you and Matt as you prop him on your shoulders. He’d barely registered how you both rushed to his side when you found him moments ago. Collapsing next to your building, of all places… somebody had to be looking out for this guy.

“Dead weight’s funny like that,” Matt huffs, bearing his share of the burden a bit easier but still straining beside you. He feels your body tense up and quickly adds, “Sorry– poor choice of words.”

“No kidding.”

Eventually you make it to your floor. Jake’s conscious, but too weary to hold himself up. Matt helps you keep him upright as you stumble down the hallway like some twisted version of The Wizard of Oz.

As quiet as you’ve tried to be, you’re a cumbersome entourage. So it doesn’t surprise you to hear one door, then another creak open on either side of the hallway.

You can’t help but freeze like a deer in headlights. On one side, you’re pinned by the gaze of Leah Mendoza, bathrobe and silk headscarf broadcasting that you’ve interrupted the highest quality of beauty sleep. Across the hall, Caroline Ngo’s sweet face peers from behind the door of her parents’ apartment. Her eyes widen as she takes in the sight of you holding up a bloodied stranger.

“Caroline, go back to bed.” Leah is hardly older than you, but a stern word from her is as good as any mother’s. At her command the younger girl obediently ducks back into her apartment, and you feel yourself shrink under your neighbor’s stare. You’re sure you won’t hear the end of this.

But you don’t have time to worry about your inevitable lecture. You keep walking toward your apartment at the end of the hall. You fumble with your keys when you pause outside the door. Jake’s weary head lolls toward you. “Easy, cabbie,” you whisper. Your arms are burning from holding him up, but you can’t help but feel bad for him as his sweat-slicked hair brushes your cheek in his exhaustion.

The three of you tumble into your apartment and move to the couch, laying Jake down as gently as possible. You turn on a couple of lamps and leave Matt to get Jake adjusted as you go to the kitchen.

“Probably has some bruised ribs, from the way he’s breathing.” Matt kneels beside Jake and helps him out of his coat to open his shirt, gingerly running a hand over his torso. He’d clearly been in a fight; the warm swelling of assorted bruises and cuts makes it obvious. He grazes his fingers over Jake’s heated forehead, stopping at the gash above his eye. “He’ll need stitches to hold him over.”

“I’m on it.” 

His vision is still slightly blurred, but after a few minutes Jake watches you approach, apron fitted over your evening gown and carrying a medium-sized box under a steaming bowl of water. You pull a chair over to the couch and sit as Matt gives you space, moving to the window. You watch as he tunes back in to the sounds of the city, listening for any lingering trouble.

You get to work with near-mechanical efficiency. Collecting supplies from the box, you dip your equipment into the water after wringing out the hand towel you had soaking in the bowl. “This might sting.”

“Ah, I can take it,” Jake says hoarsely. He tries to sit up, but winces and stops himself.

You press the cloth to his forehead, urging him back down. The wound above his eye seems to have stopped bleeding, but there’s deep purple swelling surrounding it. Once it’s clean, you pat his face dry. His good eye follows your every movement.

As you prepare to work on his face, you can see Jake’s body relax. “I’m going to stitch you up,” you warn him as you thread the needle. “You’re lucky you didn’t lose this eye… nasty head wound you’ve got here.”

“Oh, is that what this is?” Jake strains to touch his temple. “ Well, I’ll be.”

You move his hand. “Be serious.”

“As a heart attack.” He obediently takes a deep breath, eyes screwed shut as you get to work. 

As unpleasant as the procedure feels, his exhaustion trumps the pain. You make quick work of it, your hands and gaze steady. “Do I want to know how you’re so good at this?” he grunts.

You tie off the stitch and sigh. “I used to do the same thing for Matthew.” 

It takes him a moment to process what you’ve said. “You mean–”

“–I’ve spent my fair share of late nights patching him up after God-knows-what happened in some alleyway? Yeah,” you chuckle mirthlessly. “It’s like you boys crave punishment, I’ll never understand it.”

Jake winces as you snip the excess thread. “Didn’t know the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen had introduced himself to you, angel.”

“‘Introduced,’ ‘fell onto my fire escape,’ you get the picture.” Before you can stand, Matt is already at your side with a fresh towel and hot water. You offer him a tired smile. “It's how we became friends.”

“Almost more than that for a time,” he smirks. He ducks back to the window when your face heats as you clean Jake’s stitches.

Jake huffs a laugh, glancing between the two of you. “Murdock, you sly dog.”

You lean back, dismissively wiping your hands on your apron. “Oh, can it. Nothing happened.” Standing up, you gather the rags and water and leave the room.

“Forgive me if I have a hard time believing that, Songbird,” he hoarsely calls after you.

“No, she’s right,” Matt seconds. When the sound of running water floats in from the kitchen, he moves to the couch and leans in, voice low. “She didn’t want to get involved with someone putting their life on the line.”

Jake lets the weight of his confession wash over him. This wasn’t just Matt’s way of saying you were the one that got away.

When you return, you glance between the two of them. “Well, if history is repeating itself… you’ll have to sleep this off here.” You offer a cold shoulder as you collect a spare blanket and throw pillow from the corner.

Matt catches your arm as you pass. “Hey–”

“You should go, you have court in the morning.” Your voice is flat as you brush him off to keep working.

Jake’s head is still throbbing, but he’s grateful for your touch (albeit less than gentle) as you raise his head to place the extra pillow beneath it. You mutter an apology as you drape the blanket over his exposed torso. Given the look on your face, he figures he shouldn’t poke fun at your rushed attention.

He watches you escort Matt to the door. Murdock doesn’t seem too keen to depart.

“You shouldn’t be by yourself tonight,” he urges you. “I can make my way to the courthouse with plenty of time–”

“–Matthew, go, it’ll be fine.” Your tone has warmed a bit, but you maintain the space between you.

He hesitates at the door, no doubt listening to Jake’s ragged breathing on top of every other sound outside your apartment. It’s a wonder he stays sane, you often think.

You cast a glance to your battered houseguest, who pretends not to listen. “This is what you wanted, isn’t it? For us to spend more time together?” You close the distance to grasp his hand. “Really. Go home.” 

Whatever argument Matt was prepared to make, he chokes down. It’s clear you’re not changing your mind.

“If there’s any trouble–”

“–What, you think I can make him any worse than this? Give me some credit, Matty.” 

“–If there’s any trouble, just say the word.” One hand tenses around the doorframe, the tilt of his head confirming he’s still on high alert. “I’ll come right back.”

Your expression softens. “You always do.” A quick kiss to his cheek and a gentle nudge toward the hallway serves as your goodbye.

Closing the door behind you, you take a breath to steady your nerves. You were joking before, but if Jake Lockley somehow dies on your sofa, you’re not sure you’d have the stomach to stand trial.

The silence of your apartment is only broken by Jake’s groans of discomfort as he adjusts positions. You rush to his side.

“Are you okay?” You try not to sound as panicked as you feel. Without Matt and the rush of adrenaline, your anxiety spikes tenfold.

Jake’s good eye goes wide. “Yeah… yeah, I’m fine. Sorry.” He settles back into the couch. “Just trying to get comfortable.”

“Let me help you,” you say quickly, desperate to do something with your hands besides wring them. You kneel and adjust the pillows by his head, careful not to jostle him this time.

His entire body is begging to sleep for a week. But despite his headache, he takes in the sight of you as you fuss over him, fixing his blanket more times than necessary.

“Don’t think I’m going anywhere, doll.” He tries to laugh but this time only manages to cough. Matt was probably right about his ribs.

You remove your hands from the blanket. “Sorry.”

Silence again. You examine his face: it’s like looking at a stranger. The bruises and cuts are one thing, but there’s a profound heaviness in every feature you’ve never seen before. When he’s this quiet, you hardly recognize him.

“You must think I'm an idiot.” 

His gruff voice snaps you back from your thoughts. He’d been staring at you, too, watching your face fall as you’d looked at him.

You shake off the shock of his statement. “No… no, I don't think you're an idiot. Reckless, maybe, but not an idiot.”

His brow raises. “You know, I think that’s the kindest thing you’ve said to me since we met.”

You open your mouth to protest, but stay quiet. Because he’s right.

“...You think I hate you, don't you?”

“Don't you?” He presses. “Sorry to say it, doll, but I’m almost surprised you didn’t leave me out in the cold.”

You get the feeling that he’s joking, but with your track record, it’s not an unearned jab.

“I… feel a lot of things. But not hatred.” You smooth the front of your dress to distract yourself. “Right now, for example, I’m feeling generous.”

Jake cracks a small smile. “Yeah? Is letting me bleed out on your furniture your act of kindness for the year, morena?”

Your brow creases slightly as you lower yourself to sit on the floor. “I'm serious. You can ask me for anything. Within reason, I mean.”

Jake finds himself biting back another line for your sake. You've done so much already; even if you’d stitched up a hundred head wounds before his, he can’t imagine you were unaffected by what you saw tonight. You look about as tired as he feels.

This has been an evening of firsts for you both; it’s not the most high-stakes difference, but the thought crosses both of your minds: it’s the first night you haven’t put on a show for each other.

“Would you sing to me?”

You tilt your head. “Now? Really?”

Jake's smile grows. “What, too unreasonable?”

“No, it's just… you've heard me sing a dozen times.” You shrug. “Sure you want to waste your favor?”

You're not sure how he can look so worn out and still have a glimmer in his eye. But he does, and it brightens as he doubles down. “But I've never missed your grand finale. Seems like I owe you one, too.”

“...alright.” Your voice is soft as you agree. Jake settles into the cushions, eyes closed with a smug half-smile resting on his face.

You adjust yourself and take a deep breath. Trading a spotlight for your living room lamp shouldn’t be so nerve wracking, and yet–

Jake grunts, interrupting your thoughts again as he shifts against the couch. Without thinking, you place a hand on his arm.

“We finished with some ‘Babes in Arms’ tonight,” you preface. “So here’s your finale.” With another breath, you start to sing– just low enough for the two of you to hear. 

“You’re my funny Valentine… sweet, comic Valentine… you make me smile with my heart.”

You can feel Jake relax even further as you continue. “Your looks are laughable… unphotographable… yet you’re my favorite work of art.”

With every line, you’re more grateful that he wasn’t present tonight, cutting up with his usual antics while you were onstage. “Is your figure less than Greek? Is your mouth a little weak? When you open it to speak, are you smart?”

…and yet, looking at him now, wounded and weary, you get the nagging feeling that if last week was your final exchange, you’d miss him. Him, of all people. “But don’t change a hair for me… not if you care for me.”

The gentle rise and fall of his chest lets you know he’s already long gone. With his brow smoothed and that cocky smile melted away, you feel like you’re seeing Jake for the first time. At his worst, maybe, but like he has nothing to hide. 

“Stay, little Valentine, stay…”

Your exhaustion hits you all at once. You prop your head on your hand, leaning onto the bit of cushion Jake doesn’t occupy. You can barely hear yourself as you finish.

“...each day is Valentine’s Day.”

__________

You don’t remember falling asleep.

All you know is that your body aches twice as much as it would have if you’d slept in a real bed. Instead, you realize before you even open your eyes, you dozed off while sitting on the floor, legs and back at an awkward angle.

You move to sit up, but feel some resistance. You’re pinned by a blanket-covered arm draped across your shoulders. Eyes now startled open, you remember whose it is.

Jake’s still asleep, unbothered by your jolt of discovery. His brow is tense, likely because of the angle he himself ended up in, but he’s otherwise the picture of peace.

The sun hasn’t risen and the apartment is cold; it’s just you and him huddled in the lamplit space. Part of you wants to close your eyes and lean back in, but the rest of you screams that if you don’t get any blood flow to your legs, the only lounge you should look forward to this evening is a chaise.

You push yourself off the cushion, careful to move Jake’s arm back by his side. The sudden pressure makes him jump.

“Shit, what the—” he hisses, opening his eyes to see you, still at eye level. “Sorry,” he murmurs, distracted from the pain by the sight of you still at his makeshift bedside.

“No, I’m sorry.” You finish detangling yourself from the blanket and stumble upright. You consider thanking him for keeping you from freezing, but quickly change the subject instead. “I don’t mean to hurry you, but if you want to freshen up, my bathroom’s just through there.”

Jake stifles a groan as he pushes himself up off the couch. “No, I should get going soon. But I’d love to wash off the rest of this–” He almost says “blood,” but given how your face falls, he should move on. “I’d love to freshen up.”

As Jake busies himself in the bathroom, you head to your closet. You don’t feel like changing, although you suspect there’s some unfortunate stains that made their way onto your skirt. Instead, you grab a pair of socks and a buttoned shirt, draping the latter on the bathroom door. You hear Jake humming as you walk back to the couch.

When he opens the door, Jake sees the shirt. He doesn’t have to ask to know it’s one of Matt’s. He swaps his stained shirt for the clean one in the kitchen. Meaning you get an eyeful of just how bruised his torso really is.

You finish putting on your socks (this place is freezing) and stand at the edge of the kitchen. “You look better.”

“I feel better,” Jake chimes, slowly buttoning up his shirt. While you're relieved he looks rested, face and hair glistening from their quick wash, his bruises hurt to look at. You can only imagine how sore he must still be.

“Do you need something to eat?” You move to your cupboard, wincing when you notice how threadbare it is. “I can offer you… black coffee, or what used to be a loaf of bread.”

Jake chuckles, shaking his head. “You've done enough, I'm grateful. Think I'll head home and sleep the rest of this off.”

You turn back to him, stepping closer. With the excess blood and dirt washed from his face, you can see his color slowly returning. The skin by his eye remains discolored but less swollen, showing a glimmer of the brown eye still forced closed beneath his stitches. His wet hair reveals its true texture, with dark curls falling onto his face. You brush a hand across his forehead, pushing the damp hair away from his injured eye. You miss how his breath catches as you tut over him.

“It's just like Maurie's, I don't know how you boys handle all this hair…”

His eyes flutter shut for a moment. “You prefer your men coiffed and clean-shaven, then?”

“I didn't say that.” You pull your hand away, but stay just as close. “You're sure you don't need anything else? Do you want help walking home? I can call Matthew.”

"Nah, it's alright. Just gonna pick up my cab and head to my place."

"You should see a doctor, get real stitches so they don’t scar–"

"I'm promise you, I'm–"

"–or you could start bleeding again, I don't want–"

“Hey.” His hand goes to cradle your face, silencing you.

Neither of you speak for a moment, all your attention on where palm meets cheek. Jake clears his throat, not moving his hand. "I'll take care of it. Look, if I'm worse for wear the next time I see you, you can kick my tail to kingdom come." His thumb lightly traces the worry line beneath it. "Deal?"

You nod, finding it hard to swallow your next argument. "...okay." 

Another moment passes. The corners of your mouth threaten to turn up. “So when should we expect to have your table ready?”

“Oh, it’s my table now, is it?” Jake laughs, a labored sound, but he smiles through the discomfort.

You brush his hand away. “Come off it, you know what I meant.”

“I know,” he sighs, still smiling. He steps away, tugging on his coat. “But where's the fun in telling you? Rather let it be a surprise, keep you on your toes.”

You search for something, anything to say in response, but watching him struggle to put his coat on, face still cut and bruised, your usual wit fails you.

Your silence doesn't go unnoticed. Once he’s dressed, Jake steps over to you again, this time holding his hand out to you. “Until next time, morena.”

Slowly, you extend your hand to clasp his. It’s warm, like the way he’s looking at you now. You squeeze it lightly. “Until next time.”

Before you can let go, he bends down, bringing your hand to his lips. They’re dry as they brush against it, but you feel your skin burn all the same. With a signature wink and a smile, he lets go. When the door closes behind him, you’re left with the receding sound of his footsteps, your skin blazing from his touch, and the drum of your own heart racing in your chest.

__________

When Jake reaches the street, he ducks into an alley. By now the sun has almost completely risen, but the faint shape of the moon remains unusually visible over the city.

Jake closes his eyes. In an instant, his clothes transform: the borrowed shirt and bloodstained trousers fade away, replaced with a blindingly white suit. It’s more dapper than anything Jake would wear himself, but Khonshu isn't the type to keep personal tastes in mind.

A white mask rises from the collar of the suit, wrapping around his head and face. Immediately Jake feels the pressure behind his eyes alleviate, and he can think clearly for the first time in hours.

He opens his eyes– now glowing like the moon– and stares at the sky.

We need to talk, you boneheaded bastard.

__________

A/N: holy fuck this was a marathon. but worth it imo! this has the most scenes i wanted from my og concept (a oneshot, if you can believe it); love seeing how things come together within a new story. this has been a blast an a half to work on, for the story but also bc y'all's feedback has been so fun. thank you for your hype and support through all this!!!

shoutout to @mrs-lockley for always being a willing collaborator + hypewoman + reminding me that the superpowered blind character is still fucking BLIND

also ty @juneknight and @spacecowboyhotch for your help re: beating that guy up. kisses to u

as always, tysm for reading <3

tag list: @mercurysjoy, @importantnightwerewolf, @cupidysm, @queerponcho, @nerdieforpedro, @fandxmslxt69, @shadystarlightgentlemen, @lunar-ghoulie, @casa-boiardi (lmk if you'd like to be added to/removed from this wee tag list)

[el-moscorrofio-y-el-mercachifle]

Which characters do you like the most and the least?

Hiii!!

Oh I love all the most important characters, although for different reasons! (I'm assuming this is about S1 lol)

I love Betty so much because I see myself in her a lot, which is something that I've always struggled to do with media representation with female characters. Growing up with such harsh insecurities, a family always trying to cheer us up about it, being so clumsy and a bit awkward, the self esteem issues, and even by the same first experience with a relationship that turned out to be fake! (Not fully the same, but something along those lines). When I first watched ysblf I felt very much like Betty pre change. Now I look back on it and still remember how it all felt! I see so much of me in Betty as a girl growing in the 2000s with lots of self esteem issues and my family as my backbone (although Betty is a much better, much smarter, and much a more patient person than me, by far lmao.) Leaving that aside, she's a genuinely good person. I love her real sorority, her genuine desire to help the Ecomoda employees, her love for her family and for Nicolás. I also love that fire in her. She's stubborn but determined. She's not perfect and allowed herself to be consumed by rage and her emotions because she's no angel. She never was. She slept with an engaged man knowing he was engaged, and she did it because she loved him. She accepted a bribe, and had it not being for her dad talking her out of it, she would have gotten the money because her family goes above anything else. She's fully human but so compassionate and funny and with so much love to give!

I love Armando Mendoza because he's so far from perfect and goes absolutely against the Prince Charming trope, but grows throughout the series and you can see how his actions torture him. He's so worried about not being enough that he ends up proving that he wasn't. He's driven by ego and fear and insecurity, and yells and threatens because he's so insecure in his respectability and leadership and deep down knows he's messing up (which is also a pain in the ego because he wants everything to be perfect to prove himself). He seems so big and threatening but he's actually incredibly mentally fragile. He has very little discipline and is so quick to get his defenses up... but he also has a weak spot for those under his charge. He knows he has power and doesn't want to abuse it. He's pretty much like an addict, always messing up and hurting the people he loves but can't stop it. He wants to be good but doesn't know how. He treats his gf like shit because he doesn't want her at all but he doesn't have the guts to face the consequences of leaving her. He doesn't want to hurt her but can't find another way to deal with her. They bring the worst out of each other.

I love Mario Calderón becuase he's a horrible person lmao. He's so calm and happy and charming that you's think you found actual prince charming, just to end up with a wicked witch lmao. His happiness and friendliness isn't sincere. He's too observant, and can quickly find people's weaknesses and doesn't care about exploiting them. He'll lurk in the corner and then insert ideas into Armando's mind. His biggest flaw is that he thinks he's much smarter than he actually is, but also is always suspicious of people around him. He's always making schemes but never thinks things through on the long run. He's totally okay with using and discarding people because he thinks they'd do the same if they could. He's totally okay with fanning the flames of paranoia in Armando's mind. He fears nothing but public humiliation, mainly because he likely lives off public perception. He's also hilarous and. Always makes me laugh!

I love Marcela because she's both so wrong and so right, and I can't fully blame her for either. She's sickly attahced to this man that she desperately wants but doesn't love, because she can't stand him or have anything in common with him, but NEEDS him because at this point it's a matter of principle, of pride, of ego, and most important, of family. He's her everything: her childhood companion, her boss, her fellow executive, her fellow owner of the company her mom and dad created, her basically adopted brother. They grew up together. It's a lifetime of attachment. Her own basically adoptive parents keep telling her all the time they're perfect for each other! But she's also so deeply resentful of him because he treats her like shit. She, just like him, is practically always on the defensive, but like an addict she cannot stop looking for him even though it hurts her so much. So she hurts him too. That's their game, the only thing they know with each other. It's a constant battle, one that keeps you on edge. At the same time, she's so full of ego that she hates every woman that Armando lays eyes on because she can't hold HIM accountable so she hates them instead. She hates Betty because Betty has everything she wants from Armando without even havi g to fight. She got it from day 1. She despises Betty because she represents all that should be between Armando and her. And it's a pain in the ego to know that Betty being so ugly and poor still wins this round over her. She thinks she should have all that because she's supposedly socially perfect and has worked for it, even though her "work" actually comes from a place of ego and hurt and pain.

Those are my favorite characters! Honestly, I could write ESSAYS about each of them, this js only the tip of the iceberg lmao

Regarding the ones I don't like, I honestly like mot of them. Different degrees, ofc. I like Mariana much more than I like Sofia, for example, and I dislike Patty much more than I dislike AM lmao.

The only character that J can totally say I fully dislike is Jenny. I dislike her so much that I skip her scenes in the rewatches jajaja whiny tones are absolutely jarring for my ears lmao but sometimes a good story can balance it out, but Jenny doesn't really have it. She's just bad because and we know nothing else lmao

Sorry this is a big rambli g with no editing lmao thanks for the question!

[armando-triplepapito]

Dang crazy how Roberto left part of his acciones to Betty! (not 100% sure but it’s pretty obvious)

Ngl if I were Marcela I’d be pissed but mostly betrayed especially since she viewed him as a second father. In her defense it would’ve been normal to expect she’d get some of Roberto’s share. He knew how much Marcela loved Ecomoda. Tho it’s too early to assume anything.

What I’m guessing is that Doña Margarita died before Roberto so who knows maybe she gave Marcela some of her shares and Marcela then felt entitled to Roberto’s as well? Or maybe Roberto did leave something for Marcela which he thought would’ve been more valuable than his acciones but Marcela didn’t viewed it as such?🤔 idk but I can already sense Marcela is going to blame Betty for not inheriting anything…

Okay prediction time!:

I think Marcela’s overall goal was to win the presidency for her son (or who ever that guy is, he’s definitely a Valencia).

I’m assuming Betty was president before she left for two years. Something happened which Marcela was able to ask for Betty’s head.

While voting for the presidency she probably lost due to majority rule and Armando took over as president. She was fine with it cause she probably knew he wasn’t going to last long. With Betty out of the picture and with Roberto’s death she was certain her son will take the presidency because she assumed she will inherit some of Roberto’s acciones. She probably wouldn’t have won majority vote but she could’ve won cause her vote would’ve had more weight with Roberto’s acciones.

Obviously Betty got the acciones and became president again and which ruined Marcela’s plan…

Obviously Marcela’s pissed and will now go above and beyond for her son to become president.

And that’s where another prediction come in!

What if she convinces her son to seduce Camila?👀 it’s history repeating itself! Camilla will go through what Betty did! A man seducing her for Ecomoda…

^but yea idk about this prediction tho💀 i can already guess that Hugo’s assistant (im assuming) will try to seduce Camila. But I don’t think it’s for Ecomoda but for another sick intention. That will be the difference between Marcela’s kid and Hugo’s assistant.

Also I wouldn’t be surprised if Marcela’s kid actually falls in love with Camila (again history repeating itself) and that’s how Marcela will get her redemption. Having to watch her son fall in love with a Mendoza just like her , watching them end up together just how she wished for herself. She will then understand that the hate she carried is a waste and will finally get along with Betty finally restoring the strong bond between the Mendoza & Valencia’s.

So yea that’s what I’m expecting as subplots for this sequel…

[kvfkas]

[ 𝑲𝑽𝑭𝑲𝑨𝑺. . . ━━ ❛  sawyerkent  ❜ ] ⌕ search result ＞ detective comics. ＞ loading . . . 🌐｡ ₊° sawyerkent.file . . . file loaded.

a kvfkas production. ━━ ❛  𝒋𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒚𝒔.  ❜ 𖥔 in which. . . jon kent may be #24 on the ice, but he'll always be #1 in angelique sawyer's heart. 𖥔 warnings. . . tooth-rotting fluff. 𖥔 word count. . . 0.5k. 𖥔 tags. . . @ephemerensis, @di-lucss. ( if you want a tag, let me know! ) 𖥔 lily's corner. . . i love you jonathan samuel kent.

𝒋𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒚𝒔. ₊° jon kent x fem!oc.

“Not a hoodie girl, hm?” Jon teased softly, stroking Angelique’s hair. The strands were silky between his fingers, easing his usually hot-tempered girlfriend that always had a quip to add into a state of quiet, half-asleep bliss. He took her in, practically sitting on top of him with one leg thrown over his lap and her head buried in his chest. There was a movie playing on the screen, the second of the Mighty Ducks movies, but every jersey, goal, and name completely flew over Jon’s head.

     Draped on Angelique’s slender frame was his hockey jersey, the number 24 emblazoned on her back and his last name in bold letters— KENT, plastered across her shoulders. Standing at a firm 5’11, Jon was a tall enough guy as it was, but the bagginess of the jersey without hockey padding completely swamped her. It hid her tiny shorts as it dropped down to just above her knees, and the sleeves folding around her hands into makeshift mittens.

     She murmured a quiet “not really” and burrowed even further into his chest and at that very moment, Jon was sure he was in love.

     “You’re never getting this back,” Angelique mumbled, a hint of her usual salty tone sneaking back in.

     “Am I going to be stuck wearing your Sanrio tank tops?” Jon asked, tilting his head down a little to brush his nose against hers.

     “I think you’d look cute,” Angelique whispered. She thanked her stars for the darkness of the room, hiding her blush from her boyfriend’s display of affection and the spontaneous image of him wearing one of her tank tops that barged into her mind without an invitation.

     “Real men wear Hello Kitty,” he joked.

     Angelique couldn’t help the small giggle that escaped her, her nose bumping against his as she laughed. Her laugh was quiet and more under her breath, but it made her nose scrunch up and her eyes squeeze shut. It was the cutest thing Jon had ever seen.

     Jon brushed a lock of hair away from her face and tucked it behind her ear, keeping his face downwards and tilting at a slight angle to swallow her giggles in a kiss. It was a chaste peck, nothing more than a quiet brush of their lips, something short and sweet. But it made Angelique’s heart flutter and caused a comforting warmth to bloom in Jon’s chest.

     He pulled away by a fraction of an inch, such a lack of distance that his lips still brushed against hers as he spoke. “I’ll make you a deal,” Jon said in a low voice.

     “Mhm?” Angelique hummed.

     “Once the season’s over, this one’s yours to keep,” Jon said, placing a hand gingerly on her back and rubbing up and down gently. He kissed her brow, “I’ll even autograph it for you.”

     Angelique averted her gaze and slipped her hands further into the sleeves. “Deal,” she whispered in a voice so small it was almost drowned out by the TV. She closed her eyes and snuggled deeper into his arms, sighing in content as she felt his fingertips gently massage her shoulderblades.

     Jon looked down at his sleepy girlfriend then back up at the TV, where the gorgeous Luis Mendoza was on screen. He narrowed his eyes, knowing his girlfriend’s secret crush on the character. “Loser,” he whispered.

     “I know you’re not beefing with a man on a screen,” Angelique muttered, her eyes still closed. “He’s like a million years old now. And plus, his character sucks. He’s a shitty boyfriend. It’s Benny Rodriguez that you’ll have to compete with. He’d treat me right.”

     “If you’re into men who play baseball, you can talk to Tim,” Jon pouted, pretending to sulk.

     “Well, men who play baseball don’t give me cuddles or let me wear their jersey, do they?” Angelique whispered, gazing up at him with a soft gleam in her eyes, her fingers rubbing along his jaw.

     “They could,” Jon murmured.

     “Well, I quite like my hockey player boyfriend, so I’m probably going to stick with him for the time being,” she replied, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek. “Is that alright with you?”

     Jon chuckled under his breath, feeling his face warm up. “Yeah, that sounds pretty good.”

kvfkas © 2024. ───────────── all graphics, writing and characters are originally created by kvfkas on tumblr. do not steal.

[lenasai]

evacuation fundraisers that need your help - last updated 9/22

weekly gaza funds spotlight campaign:

firas is a journalist trying to escape to egypt. many members of his family have been killed, and he only has his wife and two children left. despite the immense loss he has already suffered and continued targeting of journalists, he has continued his important work documenting the reality of what is happening in gaza. for more of his story, you can find the link to his instagram page on the fundraiser page.

at the time of posting, his campaign has raised only $7,795 of its $50,000 goal and has mostly stagnated. i have donated $10 to this fundraiser and hope you will match my donation, either to this campaign or to any of the others listed below!

ID: Screenshot confirming $10 donation to the above campaign. End ID.

previous gaza funds spotlight campaigns:

raghad and family: $82,260 / $100,000

mosab moqat: €6,008 / €7,500 (no donations in 6 days!)

saja mashhawari: $6,514 CAD / $45,000 (no donations in 13 days!!)

nizar zakout: CHF25,749 / CHF35,000

ghazi mekawi: €8,661 / €50,000

vetted fundraisers:

ibrahimhuss: $45,553 / $100,000 (more info here)

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[hermywolf]

mi gente, mi fútbol de pep guardiola - FIGO

translation of the figo chapter from pep's book (from april 2001) for my most beloved @daegorth

the translations i've seen flow a lot better than this one but to get better sentence structure some parts are omitted, so just in case someone wanted a more literal, 'word for word' translation of this absolutely insane homosexual love letter, here you go

Chapter 18 - FIGO Colorful days, tainted white

It's 5am. I call for sleep… and it won't come. It just won't. It won't answer. The night of March the 3rd is becoming the morning of the 4th. My number. I just came back from Madrid, from the Barnabéu, where I have lived one of those nights that give meaning to the entirety of a deportive career. I send a thank you, although I don't know exactly to whom, for having dedicated me to this job, and, above all, for having given me the oportunity of enjoying games like this one. Games that we used to live together and that we now live separately. Games where you used to play as number 7 when you now play with the 10. Colorful days you've tainted white.

Yesterday, Luis, when we flew to Madrid, you weren't next to me. This time, Luis Enrique was my companion on the front row of the plane. If it had been you, you would have ordered your usual Sprite, always very cold, and you would have spent the whole flight going through fashion magazines. The Asturian, on the other hand, asked for a tomato juice while he finishes reading 'Labyrinth of Olives', of Eduardo Mendoza. You see, Luis, the new level we're reaching here. You can't say it's not high.

I get to Madrid, I get to the hotel and I'm alone. You, however, have probably already replaced me with another, who, as I used to once, will watch impassibly your usual routine during training camp. You'll grab the phone and you'll keep on calling your portuguese friends and your friends from here so you can talk about everything, except football. And once it's late, when dawn comes, you'll turn off your bedsite lamp and you'll say goodbye to the day with the same sentence you use every night during training camp;

"Alright, I'm going to call for sleep."

And your sleep, I'm sure, will come as fast as you can face defenders, get rid of them and run for the goal. As brave now as you used to be. As brave now as you were that day in Vigo where, playing Portugual against Spain, I saw you for the first time. And on that galician day I saw you do what I've seen you do so many times since then. I discovered the ease with which you put the weight of the team on your shoulders. And, with this charge on your shoulders, you dragged them along as you would later drag us, so many times, so we can win a game today, and another tomorrow. And so on until we reach the titles we reach. And now as I remember you this way, I see you, I just saw you, dragging others. And it hurts me, but… It is what it is.

Anyway, as Ángel Mur says, we like that you come into our locker room at the end of the games. You did it again today like you did the day you came back to the Camp Nou and what happened happened. Ángel likes that very much. He always says he doesn't understand the players who were once with us and who, when we just played against their new team, don't come by the Barça locker room to chat a bit. So we can know about how he's doing, and he can know about us. And we don't care if it's in our stadium or his. What matters is seeing each other. Talking to each other.

Many of those who played with us ended up walking past the door of the Barça locker room, but not you. You came in. Sweaty, tired because you ran so much, but ready to say hi to everybody. The president Gaspart gave you his hand and you shook it. Him, and the Closa directives, and Barnabéu, and probably somebody else too. You said hello the the Mister, to Ángel, to Ibarz, to Chema, to Jaume and, without any exceptions, to every single one of the players. Later, you and I sat down on one of those tin boxes that always travel with us and we talked some time about your new home. About your wife, Hélène, and about Daniela, my goddaughter.

Many of those who played with us ended up walking past the door of the Barça locker room, but not you. You came in. Sweaty, tired because you ran so much, but ready to say hi to everybody. The president Gaspart gave you his hand and you shook it. Him, and the Closa directives, and Barnabéu, and probably somebody else too. You said hello the the Mister, to Ángel, to Ibarz, to Chema, to Jaume and, without any exceptions, to every single one of the players. Later, you and I sat down on one of those tin boxes that always travel with us and we talked some time about your new home. About your wife, Hélène, and about Daniela, my goddaughter.

I remember the day you asked me to be your daughter's godfather. I told you; "think about this well, Luis. I'm sure there's someone closer to you than I am, who deserves this and wants this." But you'd thought it thouroughly already. You chose me, and, I want this to be clear, you filled me with honor, pride, gratefulness and responsability because, for example, Luis, where can I buy Easter eggs for my goddaughter in Madrid?

1/2 (more in reblog bc character limit)

[prince-ashitaka]

All good things melt away

By : Chase Mendoza-Brutsche

The bats swarm the chimney

Devouring the insects above

We sit and watch

Devouring ice cream on the porch

I am happy

And you are nothing but my dad

Not yet a monster

Construed by a web of lies

New friends inquire about you

There is not a need

“ I love him but things are so complicated”

I just smile and say

“I love my dad. He is my hero”

Untouched by the wrong doings of your past

Tomorrow your unconditional love

will become nothing more than a fleeting memory

But tonight

Tonight we sit and laugh

Telling ridiculous stories

Eating ice cream

Tonight you are not a liar

A manipulator, Cheater ,abuser, a pedo

Tonight you are nothing but my dad

Your love is sweet

Will we ever share ice cream again ?

[eopederson]

Camino entre viñedos hacia Tupungato, Mendoza, 2022.

The top of the dome of Tupungato peeks above the Andes foothills. Tupungato is 6,570 m, lower than Aconcagua at 6,961 m but substantially higher than Denali at 6,190 m. A goal for the next trip to Mendoza is to get a bit closer to the mountain.

[jerzwriter]

Karma is... a Barbie Premiere (1/2)

I completely blame @jamespotterthefirst for this! It started as a simple edit, then it became a gossip page, and now it's a full-blown fic.

I've long hinted about Dr. Eva Mendoza joining as an OC in my Tobias & Casey world. She's only been briefly introduced once, but what better way to bring her back than for the Boston premiere of the Barbie movie? 💄💗💋 It's definitely a date for the Carrick's, but what about their friends, Ethan & Eva? No one can get a straight answer, and rumors are swirling.

Part 1 of fic below.

Book: Open Heart (Post Series) Pairings: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey) Ethan Ramsey x F!OC (Eva) - Maybe? Rating: Teen Words: 1,700 Summary: Tobias scores tickets to the biggest event in Boston, and he & Casey each invite a friend. When they learn who each invited, the wheels start spinning. A/N: See above. It's all Bree's fault. lol. This is just a two-parter, and part two will be up later tonight. This was fun, I hope you enjoy it, too! Participating in @choicesflashfics (prompt in bold below)

Part 2 found here

It had been a brutally hot summer in Boston, leaving most residents eager for something to do indoors just to keep cool. That included the doctors at Edenbrook. So Casey was elated when Tobias told her he scored four tickets to the event of the summer, a premiere of the Barbie movie being held by a local charity. She had told him she didn’t mind missing it, but her reaction when he said they’d be going proved otherwise.

“So,” he smiled between breaths as Casey rolled off him and snuggled into his side. “I’m glad to see you really didn’t want to go.”

“Oh, stop,” she giggled with a playful shove. “You know we would have done that anyway.”

“Good point,” he agreed. “Now, who should we offer the other tickets to?”

“I don’t know. Why don’t we each pick a friend?”

“Bryce would be all over this, but he’ll be in Hawaii that week.”

“Same with Sienna. That’s the week she’s visiting her family. Jackie would rather have food poisoning.”

“I think you’re right about that,” he laughed. “Don’t worry, we’ll think of someone.”

_____

But with the movie premiere just a week away, neither had picked anyone to go, and they made a pact to correct that by the end of the day. 

Casey was reading an article on her phone in the cafeteria when she heard a familiar voice. Desperate for adult conversation that didn’t involve medicine, she eagerly waved Eva over.

“Hey,” the stunning brunette smiled as she approached Casey’s table. “I saw you, but I didn’t want to interrupt. I thought this might be your only alone time.”

“Nah,” Casey smiled. “Tobias is a great hubby... he makes sure I breathing room when I need it. But what I need now is some mindless girl talk! I haven’t had that in ages!”

“Oh, wonderful,” Eva sighed. “I’ve never been terribly good at mindless girl talk, but I promise I’ll give it my best shot. What are we supposed to discuss? Boys? Make-up? Waxing?”

“No, silly!” Casey laughed. “It can be anything... just not work and nothing too serious. Like, tell me, do you have any summer plans?”

“Mmm, not really,” Eva replied, biting into her sandwich. “My first anniversary at Edenbrook is in September; I don’t have much vacation time until then.”

“Well, that sucks! I hope you’re doing some fun things anyway.”

“Oh, I am! I love exploring Boston. I’ve been going to a bunch of concerts and rollerskating in the parks... It’s sort of my thing!”

“Now, that is something I’d love to do with you!”

“You rollerskate!” Eva enthused.

“Ice skating is more my thing, but... transferable skills. I’m going to have to get a new pair of rollerskates. The last ones I owned were Barbie skates to show you how long it’s been.”

“So... last year,” Eva chuckled. “Sorry, you strike me as a woman who would wear Barbie rollerskates even now. And I don’t mean that as an insult.”

“Mmm,” Casey hummed. “GUILTY! But it really was some time ago.”  Then, a lightbulb went off. “Hey! Wait! Were you a Barbie girl growing up?”

“Not exactly,” Eva sighed sadly. “I wanted to be. It’s so steeped in American culture; it’s a right of passage. But my traditional Greek and Cuban families felt they were too provocative. So, I only got to play with them when I visited my friends’ houses.”

“Well, that sucks!”

“I think my parents would have been OK with it, but my Abuela and Yiayia wielded far too much power with my Mother in those days. My father sneaked me off to the Barbie section when he took me to the toy store. He also encouraged playdates with Mindy Schumacker, and I believe her rivaling the Barbie Dreamhouse had something to do with it.”

“I think I’d like your Dad!” Casey smiled.

“I’m certain you would.”

“Well, I would be a failure as a physician if I didn’t do my part to help cure your Barbie Deficiency Syndrome! Tobias and I are going to the premiere at the IMAX next week, and I have a spare ticket. Want to join us?”

“Wait! Those tickets are impossible to get? How’d you score them?”

“My husband is a miracle worker,” Casey winked. “And he loves spoiling me.”

Eva shook her head. “I’ve known you a while now; I attended your wedding and witnessed that man being the most doting husband and father I’ve ever seen... but it’s still hard for me to reconcile that he’s the same man I knew back at Kenmore.”

“Well, love has a way of doing things to people. But I know he’d love it if you joined us. What do you say, are you in?”

“Oh, you couldn’t keep me away!”

_____  

Tobias stepped into the Diagnostic Teams office, humming a song vaguely familiar to Ethan as he entered. Looking up from his paperwork, Dr. Ramsey feigned annoyance with his friend. 

“I don’t understand how you’re always so chipper. You have a newborn and don’t sleep.”

“She’s three months old now, not a newborn.”

“Practically ready to go off to college then!” Ethan teased. “What were you humming... was that... Taylor Swift.”

Tobias raised a brow. “And what if it was? I have an excuse for humming it twenty-four/seven, and it’s called Casey. But what’s your story for knowing it?”

“Also, Casey! I’m trying to be supportive with her returning to work part-time, so I let her play the godforsaken stuff when we’re in here together.”

“She really can convince anyone to do anything, can’t she. Do you like any songs?”

"No."

Tobias stared at his friend with a wicked grin. "You always were a terrible liar. 'Fess up! What are your favorite Taylor songs?"

Ethan sat back in his chair and rocked as if deep in thought. “Some of her work from Folklore and Evermore is quite appealing. But if you tell Casey, I’ll fire you.”

“My lips are sealed,” Tobias laughed. “I heard you canceled your trip to the Cape. Everything all right? I’m happy to take over some of your work if you need help.”

“I appreciate the offer, but it’s not canceled. Just delayed. I was foolish to plan it around budget time.”

Tobias rubbed his chin as he studied his friend, his concern growing. “You know, Ethan... I’ve been a little worried about you. I’m a new dad, and I do more fun things than you. You need to work some playtime into your life.”

“Please,” Ethan groused. “I hope you’re not suggesting another boys' night out with Lahela. I have neither the budget nor the energy.”

“You damn well do have the budget! As for the energy, I can see how it's hard at your age. But you have to push through.”

“I’m a year older than you!” Ethan reminded.

“But you act twenty-two years older!”

“I can’t help it if you’re immature,” Ethan countered with a grin.

“Say! Case and I are going to the premiere of the Barbie movie next week...”

“She has you so pecked,” Ethan chuckled.

Ignoring him, Tobias informed him he had an extra ticket, Ethan was coming, and he wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“I’m more of an Oppenheimer person. Barbie isn’t exactly my thing.”

“I don’t care; you’re coming.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Fine,” Tobias grinned, picking up his phone and pretending to dial. “I hate to do this, but you leave me no choice.”

“What are you doing?”

“I’m letting Casey know how much you loved Folklore and Evermore. I’m even going to fabricate and tell her you’re experimenting with Midnights; she should play that for you on her next shift. Don’t worry, Ethan. You’ll love it!”

“Hang up that phone right now,” Ethan ordered.

“Too late!” Tobias smirked. “Casey, baby, how’s your day going? Guess who's coming with us to see Barbie? Ethan! I know it’ll be a blast. See you at home soon, hon.”

Ethan pinched the bridge of his nose. “I can’t believe you’re doing this to me.”

“Hey, it’s joining us at the Barbie movie once and maybe... gasp... having some fun... or listening to Taylor on loop for the remainder of time. I think you made a wise choice, Ethan.”  

“I didn’t make a choice!”

“Oh, you did,” Tobias winked as he left the room. “You’ll need to wear something pink!” he hollered as he entered the hall.

“I don’t own anything pink!”

“Good, you have time to fix that!”

_____   

Tobias opened the front door to his home and couldn’t help but smile. Casey stood just beyond the foyer, holding little Sammy on her hip as they danced to The Temptation's “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.” 

“Look!” Casey beamed, pointing towards him. “Daddy’s home! Now he can dance with us, too!”

“You better believe I am,” Tobias grinned. He took Sammy from Casey, then wrapped his arms around her hips. “I’m so glad you’re giving our daughter a balanced musical diet. It can’t be all Taylor, all the time.”

“Hey, my love of Motown is what sealed the deal and made you fall in love with me,” Casey said, kissing his cheek.

“Heh,” Tobias snickered. “It certainly impressed me, but that wasn’t what sealed the deal.”

“Oh, really, then what did?”

“Not in front of the baby, dear,” he grinned. “But hey, speaking of Taylor Swift, your fellow fan at work is joining us at the Barbie movie next week.”

“My fellow fan? I told you Sienna is away next week.”  

“I know, but I’m talking about Ramsey.”

“ETHAN? Ethan is coming with us to the Barbie premiere?”

“Yeah,” Tobias replied. “He really needs to expand his horizons. I hope it’s OK with you.”

“Of course! It’s just... he doesn’t seem like the Barbie type.”         

“He’s not,” Tobias laughed. “But we’re going to have so much fun with this. I even told him to wear pink!"

"We're going to have fun, for sure! But Ethan? The jury is out on that. There’s just one tiny problem, babe. I asked Eva to come along.”

Tobias’s face fell. “Oh, shit. They’re totally going to think we’re trying to hook them up.”

“Which we’re not,” Casey replied. “I mean, I would... but this wasn’t our intention.”  

“Maybe not,” Tobias smirked. “But you know... me and karma vibe like that.”

“T.,” Casey said, shaking her head. “Please leave inserting Taylor quotes into situations to me... but... we are going to have so much fun with this!”

Tobias jiggled Samantha on his lap. “You hear that, Sammy? Your Mommy’s got ideas in that head. No one is safe now.”

Part 2 found here

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[sjstone-author]

Sesame Swallow

What is your character’s name? Sesame Swallow

What is your character’s age? 26

Where was your character born? Finger Lakes/Watkins Glen, NY

What does your character look like? Blonde, athletic, 5' 4"

What does your character act like? Fun-loving, impulsive, bad at dating, laughs at herself, drinks a little too much, friendly

Who are your character’s parents? Parents died in a car accident; she was raised by her "grandparentals"

What is your character’s educational background? Bachelor's in Criminal Justice with a minor in Forensics

What is your character’s best friend? Beatrix Mendoza, who's a bartender at The Promenade; she's from LA, but her family is from El Salvador

How did they become friends? At work; Sesame used to work at The Prom, too; they are roommates now

Who is your character’s first love? Carlos, the guy who cheated on her and broke her heart

Where does your character live? In Baltimore City, a few blocks north of Camden Yards in the apartment building above The Prom

Does your character live with anyone? Bea

Is your character married? No, never married, and no aspirations to get married

Does your character have kids? No

What is your character’s job? Court researcher and legal assistant to a retired Baltimore City judge, but she wants to be a private investigator

Is your character religious? No

What is your character’s value system / moral code? Generally a good person, but accepts that she might need to break the law a little to get the job done as a P.I.

What does your character believe about the world? It's pretty broken, and trusting people is a gamble; you have to find the right people and put your trust in them, but don't get fooled.

Is your character introverted or extroverted? Extroverted

What is your character’s daily routine and why? Up, coffee, work, at the bar in the evening, unless she's working through dinner and beyond. Very busy, overworked. Work hard; play hard.

Name 3 things that your character loves (& why). Coffee -- it is the elixir that brings life. A good drink and good food -- no reason needed. Her grandparentals -- she owes them everything and wants to make them proud.

Name 3 things that your character hates (& why). Douchebages -- as a city girl trying to date, douchebag guys abound. People who are late, or she herself being late -- being on time is one thing her grandparentals instilled in her. Dishonesty -- she struggles to trust people, and she's always looking for red flags, even if she's not good at seeing them.

What’s your character’s greatest flaw? She's impulsive, reckless and willing throw herself into danger, for good or bad.

What’s your character’s greatest virtue? She's tenacious, determined, dedicated, especially when it comes to friends and family.

What is your character’s secret vice? What’s the origin? She gets a thrill from danger, hence her recklessness. She was brought up in a very safe environment with loving caregivers, and now she's on her own, and she wants to explore the world, try a potentially dangerous career and find out what she can do with her mind and her body.

[dosnovias]

meet our OC Dominick, who's the lead singer of a punk band called DDT. He's gay, fat, poor, and just trying his best 🎤 🐻

songs that make us think of him:

more lore under the cut ✂️👇🏽

(The songs either match his vibe, his backstory, or what he might sound like as a vocalist...)

Like it says in the pic, Dominick follows his gut and does what he wants in the moment (for better or worse). Examples include:

Choosing Music as his major in undergrad. Like . . . Who does that?

Moving out of his parents house without a job, place to stay, or any kind of plan.

Auditioning for and then joining a punk band (without knowing anything about punk, metal, or rock in general).

He's faking it until he eventually makes it. God willing. But he's not a total and complete boy failure—here are some positives about him:

He can write a pretty good ditty. Guess that music degree is good for something, huh?

He looks great in a maid's outfit. Don't ask.

He can remember all of the lyrics to You Oughta Know.

Can ask someone "Where's the bathroom?" in Spanish.

Has no problem being brutally honest with you. He tells it how it is.

Other random things about him that we couldn't really put in the above categories:

Has a crush on fellow DDT bandmate, Lorenzo Mendoza.

Gets along with his younger brother Eddie, who's just like him . . . Except skinnier, smarter, and getting a degree in something useful.

Works at an little empanada shop in Queens.

Is actually dating his co-worker, who's a really cute guy with a mullet named Frankie.

Wait. He's got a boyfriend but is also crushing on his bandmate? We take it back—he is a boy failure. 💀