#Amanda Brown from The Go-Betweens

[sunburnacoustic]

Rage TV special: 20 years of Rage - 27 April 2007 - Guest Programmers montage. Muse are at 1:13, and the presenters decided that unlike everyone else, who got synth elevator music, they'd keep in the audio for Muse's clip, so behold in HD, Matt's manic laugh.

A series of clips from an episode of "rage", the ABC's late night music video show

Over the month of April, 2007, the show presented a series of "20 years of rage" specials, celebrating 20 years since the show began in 1987, featuring music videos covering those years, archival news clips, clips of guest programmers from previous episodes etc. This upload contains most of the material from the fourth special that aired between music videos

Digital TV recording from ABC TV in Perth, Australia on the 28th of April, 2007

From the Internet Archive, a true treasure chest.

[sensei-venus]

Something fluffy, poly! Daniel Amanda and Johnny where Reader gets sick when she's at home with the Twins! Robby and Sam. But then it turns out she's pregnant with Anthony?

Reader wanted to act like she was fine that whole afternoon but she knew it was a lie. That morning she woke up overly sore and tired out of nowhere with a belly that felt like it was full of lead. But she sucked it up for babies. Everyone had work that day so she was the only one home that day to take care of them.

Johnny had early classes at the dojo.

While Daniel and Amanda were off to the dealership for an important morning meeting about new inventory that would be hitting the dealership soon.

After a few morning kisses spread between all of them, a few peaks to the kids cheeks and they where gone. Off to work leaving her and the twins alone. Days like this she was grateful that the two children were almost six.

Only a few months and they would be turning six together and the following year be eligible to start school. There was a hint of mixed emotions on that. A big part of her was sad that her babies would be leaving the nest so soon but it had to be done. They grow up so fast.

"Mama! are you going to help me with my picture or not?" Samantha grinned as she held up her half colored paper. The coloring book page of a cartoon princess was only half colored in. She had done her very best to keep inside the lines clearly.

Reader quickly put her thoughts to the back burner before smiling down at the girl and nodding. Sitting down next to the girl at the kitchen table she grabbed a crayon and started to help by filling in some of the blanks. The whole time Sam talked about the princess they where coloring in. Giving the made-up girl a whole background that Reader was eating up.

“Mama look at my T-Rex….” Robby shyly said from across the table. He pushed over his completed page. A bright green and brown trex was drawn and colored out on the piece of paper. Reader grinned and looked over to him “Robby that’s so good! You did amazing, he looks so real! Did you like coloring him in?” Robby slowly started to smile. It was a bit of a surprise when Robby started to age up next to his older twin, who just so happened to be only three minutes older than him, and was the shyer one of the two.

Sam took the head of being more outgoing and outspoken while Robby liked to sit in the background for a while until he wanted to really come out. He was such a sweetie that Reader couldn’t help but spoil him.

While Sam was more of a daddy’s girl with the guys, Robby was HERS. He was definitely more of a mamas boy.

The happy thought was cut off by the weight in her gut. It made her physically stop for a moment. Trying her best not to vomit right then and there. With what will power she had she stood up and covered her mouth. With urgency and the last bit of strength she had “Mom needs to go-“ and practically ran from her spot at the table.

“Mama-“

The sound of scrapping chairs filled the room behind her while she ran down the hallway.

The kitchen sink was not a option, she needed to hold onto the toilet for what ever was about to happen. Her eyes watered while pushing past her bedroom door and then though her bathroom one. Both hands where on her mouth as she almost threw up into them but was lucky enough to get to the toilet in time. Her knees crashed to the floor as she flung the seat up. Hunched over the porcelain with both hands gripping the bowl she puked.

A few stray tears fell as she vomited everything she had ate in the last few hours. Breakfast and the lunch she sheared with the kids. The feeling of weight leaving her stomach made her head spin. The taste of acid filling her mouth made her gag even harder. It felt like forever before she finally stopped puking. A few dry heaves later and she was almost falling over the toilet rim. With a shaky breath, sweaty body and tear stained cheeks she gently fell back into her butt. She closed her eyes for a moment while trying to breath again.

It wasn’t until she heard the sound of light whimpers did she open her eyes again.

Robby and Sam stood in the doorway with scared eyes. Well, it was mostly Robby who looked the most scared out of the two. He held Sam’s hand as they watched from the doorway.

“Mama!” Robby almost cried as he walked into the bathroom and collapsed next to her on the floor. His hands gripping at her shirt in tiny fists. She rubbed his back as they both tried to relax. When she was able to breathe right again she quietly said “It’s okay, I’m okay, I’m sorry that I scared you like that. Mama didn’t feel good and she didn’t want to get sick on you and Sam.” Looking up at her with teary eyes he nodded.

“Does your tummy hurt Mama? Like when I was sick that one time. I threw up like that too but you helped me and cleaned me up.” He mumbled. If Reader wasn’t suddenly so tired she would have laughed. With a tinny smile she replied “Kinda like that. But I’m okay now so don’t worry.”

Robby nodded and tried to push his head up for a kiss but Reader could only give a small laugh and put a hand over his mouth lightly “Ahh no kiss, mama just threw up. Her mouth is yucky and she doesn’t want you getting sick either.” Robby pouted but seemed to understand.

“Sam baby will you get mommy a water bottle from the fridge? Please and thank you.” Sam bolted out of the doorway and back out to the kitchen. The sound of the fridge door opening and closing was heard before the pounding of her feet followed. Practical flying back into the room she handed her mama the nice cool water. Reader rinsed her mouth out, spitting back into the toilet before flushing it. After a few good minutes, she felt safe getting up off the floor. Robby was almost attached to her side, still a little shaken.

“How about we take a little nap since mama isn't feeling so good.” Reader did her best to muster up a calm voice. The puking only did so much to make her feel any better than she was. If anything it made her more tired than she was.

Robby almost bolted out of the room, jumping onto her huge bed with a giggle. Sam looked at him then back to Reader. Her big eyes filled with questioning almost as if she was asking “Are you sure your okay?” it was sweet of her. But Reader shooed her off. She followed suit of her twin by climbing up on the bed next to him. They both giggles while throwing the covers around. Hiding under them. Their heads poked out to look back at her.

She gave a small laugh “You two get comfortable, I'm going to clean up a little and go to the bathroom.” the two kids ducked back under the blankets. Reader rolled her eyes before closing the door.

She looked for a rag to clean up with, to wipe everything down. Digging around under the sink she felt around for the spare fabric. Her hand knocked into something making it fall and tumble out onto the floor. Sighing she grabbed whaever it was. Her eyes widened when she turned the small box around, reading the packaging.

Pregnancy tests.

It had been years now that she hadn't taken one. The last time she did- it was when she found out she was pregnant with the twin. That felt like it was so long ago.

She could remember it so clearly. Sitting on the bed, Daniel paced around the bedroom, Johnny lying on the bed while Amanda looked over her shoulder in excitement. Watching as the test started to slowly turn positive over the span of five or so minutes.

The memory made her hear flutter a little in her chest.

Why not take one for fun?

A stupid gag almost. Maybe it would spice things up if someone found it in their trash later on. She almost laughed at her own stupid idea.

Breaking the seal she took out two tests and went to work. Peeing on both of them before flushing and washing her hands. Cleaning long forgotten. For a split second, she felt a bit sad. Knowing that the tests would be negative. It wasn't like they were trying to get pregnant again, but still. The feelings and emotions still bubbled up as she left the tests to load. A small beep alerted her that they were both done so she flipped them over.

Her heart almost stopped put of pure shock as she gazed down at them.

Both tests were bright and positive. The lines are bold and bright against the bright white result paper.

Her heart felt like it would stop at any moment from just looking at the positive pink lines. This was real, very very real. She was pregnant with her third baby an she only found out from jokingly taking a stupid pregnancy test for fun. Pacing around the bathroom did nonthing to calm her spicking nerves. So many questions went thogh her mind in that very moment.

How was she going to tell her husbands and wife?

When did this even happen?

How far along was she?

All of those things filled her head making her even more nauseous. Taking a long deesp breath she tries to calm down.

“Mama are you coming? Me and Robby are getting tired.” Sam’s voice rang out from the other room.

“I'm coming!” Reader lightly yelled. She placed the used tests on the counter to be dealt with later on. Straightening herself up she walked back into her room with a grin. Finding the twins bundled up in the sheets and blankets. Reader climbs up onto the bed, flipping the covers over to reveal the two kids. They both laughed as they were uncovered.

“Scooth over so I can get in there,” she mumbles while getting between the two. They cover backup. Both twins snuggle up to her sides, heads resting on her chest.

“Your heart is really fast mama.”

“Are you okay?”

Reader smiled while playing with Sam’s light curls.

“Well I'm a little excited because I found out some really good news.”

Both kids perked up at the statement.

“What if Mama told you that you guys would be having a little brother or sister soon?” Sam gasped loudly. Her eyes were big while replying “Like a baby?!?” Reader nodded “Like a baby. I'm going to have another baby and give you guys a little sibling.” she laughed at the girls reaction.

“The baby is in your belly right? That's where Miss Page had her baby at.” Robby spoke up mentioning the woman who works at the dealership who recently had a baby. Robby pokes at her squishy belly. Sam joins by rubbing at the flesh.

“Yep, but they're really tiny right now so you can't really see them just yet. They have to grow a bit more before you guys can see them in my tummy.”

“Does Mommy and Papa and Dad know?”

“No not yet, but, I was thinking before they get home we could think of a special way to tell them. How does that sound? We can do something special to tell them about your new sibling.” both kids beamed at the idea. They both try to scatter of the bed but Reader holds them back. She laughs while pulling them back onto the bed.

“Not yet guys! Mama still isnt feeling so hot. We can start planning after our nap okay.” the twins reluctantly nodded but laid back down next to her. Cuddling up into her sides once again to finally go to sleep.

Who knows what will happen in the next few hours.

(Part 2??)

[railingsofsorrow]

5 hours apart

[spencer reid x reader]

summary: “I miss you. I miss you so much it hurts.” “I don't want you to miss me. It's tearing me apart.” from this prompt list.

pairing: spencer reid x svu!detective!f!reader

w.c: 3.7K

warnings/content: long distance relationship; crying; sadness; discussions of a case related to kidnapping (brief); migraine; this o.s approaches healthy siblings dynamic and some childhood trauma, be aware; discussions about marriage; spencer does not beat the pipe cleaner allegations.

A/N: decided to do a crossover one shot between criminal minds and law and order: svu (my newest obsession)because I love both shows (and nick amaro has older brother vibes) and it fit pretty well. there's like a few Spanish terms that I used and please consider that I did Spanish in high school and had a few classes afterwards, forgive me if I made some misspellings.

navi

masterpost

cm masterlist

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There are two missed calls on your phonescreen when you turn it on. The heavy load of paperwork you needed to finish plus the migraine that did not leave you alone forced you to turn your phone off during the daytime so you could concentrate on working. Amanda and Fin telling you to go home wasn't as effective as your boss ordering the exact same thing upon seeing your tired state. Thankfully, by the time he did that, you had already finished everything and you happily obliged.

The keychain clinking against the doorknob makes you drop your shoulders in relief. You aren't home but it's close enough. It's been a few months since you have stepped into your brother's place, but it's the same as you remember. Grey couch, the spotless kitchen island that you can see as soon as you walk in, the innumerous pictures of your brother and your niece scattered around the walls.

You throw your dark brown blazer on the loveseat across the room and sit on the couch unceremoniously, pressing play on the latest voice message.

“Hey... It's me. I called you before and it went straight to voicemail, I... I forgot to say something.” You snort, hair falling off of your ponytail as you let it loose down your shoulders. Never have you ever seen your boyfriend forget something. “I'm sorry I couldn't make it. I know I promised and I really wanted to go but the case, it was a serious one, they needed me.” The guilt in his voice breaks a part of you inside. “I-I'm sorry I let you down.” There's a beat, some voices in the background that you can't make out who it is because they're too far away. “I love you and I'll make it up to you, okay? Call me when you can, please.” And the message ends.

You only notice you start crying when a sob echoes through the room and the sound comes from you.

You were never mad at him. Deep down, you expected him to cancel on you because of a case, you knew you would if you were needed. Both if you are not the kind of people who let your people hanging, especially if the reason is work. And that's fine, when you started dating Spencer, that was the first thing you understood, as he did.

Being far away from him is what kills you. You manage to work long-distance. He visits you on his (rare) day-offs, you escape for a few days to Virginia. It works. It's how you do. But there are moments in which you just need him close and it's not like you can drive over to his apartment right away. 5 hours apart does that to a couple. It's not unbearable, but it's painful.

You miss him.

So you dial the number you know by heart, sniffling quietly on your bubble of loneliness in the empty apartment.

You don't know where he is, if he's home, if he's in a completely different timezone. You don't care.

It rings twice before his voice fills up the call. “Hi—Hey, angel.” He sounds frantic. You smile thinking he must have been waiting for your call.

“Hey, Spence,” you respond, folding your knees on the couch. “Are you home? I didn't text first to see if it was a good time to talk, sorry.”

“It's always a good time to talk to you.” He says without hesitantion. “I'm on the motel, packing.”

“Oh, so did the case end okay?”

You can feel the relief through his exhale. “Yes, we found the boy on time. He's finally back with his parents. Home.”

Your mouth twitches, “that's good.” And you make sure to add as you always do, “you saved a life today, I'm proud of you.”

His soft awkward chuckle causes a tearful grin out of you. You can practically see him blushing.

“Thank you. It was... It's a good feeling.”

“Are you happy?”

“Not really.”

You brows furrow slightly. “Why? Did something happen?”

“I miss you,” he says. “I am happy that we saved someone today, of course but... You know, the first person I wanted to tell it to was you. I just— I miss you. So much it hurts.”

You close your eyes as the tears slip one by one down your cheeks, you felt their salty taste. Your chest clenching as you stay silent for what feels like several minutes until Spencer's concerned tone breaks the silence.

“Angel?”

“Please don't miss me. It's tearing me apart.” Your request doesn't quite make sense but you don't have time to think it through before you say it. It just what comes out of your heart.

“Please, don't cry.”

You let out a tearful laugh, attempting to dry your tears foolishly.

“I'm always missing you, sweetheart. I'm sorry but that's inevitable.” He adds, sadly.

“It hurts so fucking much.”

Spencer clears his throat and you know he's either refraining from crying himself or trying to mask it.

“I know. I'm sorry.” He pauses. “I wish I was there.”

You shake your head even though he can't see it. “'s not your fault. It's your job, you can't help it.”

"I hate it that you're crying and I'm not there to comfort you."

"I'm fine," you whisper, sniffling. "Don't worry about me. Today was just... A shitty day, really."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

You hum, fiddling with the soft fabric of the light green hand-knit throw blanket your brother always left on his couch. "Migraine." It's what you say and all he needs to know to wince in the other side of the line.

"Did you take something for it?" Spencer is aware of your frequent migraines and how much they bother you.

"Yeah, it's okay now." You reply even though there's a little painful pang in the back of your back right now.

"Maybe you should try to sleep a little. Did you know that sleeping seven hours every night impacts on your focus, body weight and immune system? Actually, adults aged from sixteen to sixty years should all get at least seven hours sleep every night, but that's almost never happens because of people's usual hectic work schedules-" He sucks in a breathe upon noticing he's rambling non-stop. You laugh and suddenly the harsh grip on your heart diminishes a little. His voice appeasing the momentary heartache you're going through.

"Says you. Who never sleeps, anyway. And work on caffeine 24/7."

"Hey," his tone has a tinge of amusement but he pretends to be offended. "I sleep."

"You do when I'm there. Cause I force you."

"Oh, you're so cruel to me, angel."

Your lips widen into a smirk. "That I am."

The conversation carries on for a while, until you figure out which time it is where he is and immediately orders him to go to sleep because he has an early flight to catch in the morning. He's reluctant, but he eventually lets it go because you need to sleep too and you will talk in the next day again.

Before he hangs up, he asks, the first time he hesitates in the call. "Uh, does- does your brother hate me?"

Your brain takes a few seconds to grasp what he's implying, until you remember what was supposed to happen this weekend. Spencer would come over to your place in New York to meet your brother.

You bite your lip, straightening your legs out on the ouch. "Yeah, about that..."

"He does, doesn't he? I don't blame him, I did screw up-"

"Wait, baby, that's not it. I... I actually didn't tell him." A pause, you curse under your breath. Now he must thing you didn't want him to come. "Spence?"

"Did I pressure to do something you didn't want? I should have asked you if you wanted meet to meet him, right? I think I kind of invited myself over and-"

"Stop." You cut him off. "No, Spencer. You didn't pressure me into anything. I want you two to meet, of course I do. You're one of the most important people to me, but I really forgot. I'm not making up an excuse."

"Alright, yeah. Okay." He says and you hear a door closing and wood creaking. He must be sitting on the bed.

"I love you." You receive the mental image of the scrunch of his nose and the smile he can't help whenever you drop the L bomb out of nowhere. "And you know he doesn't have to approve anything, right? Nick has no say in who I date or not."

"But he's your brother, he's important to you and I would meet him someday anyway because- I, well." Your body shakes with laughter and the phone almost drops from your hand.

"What, are you proposing now, genius? Through the phone, really?"

"Don't make fun of me." Spencer warns playfully.

You take a few seconds to process that he doesn't deny it. You said it as a joke but he didn't even deny it that he thinks about marrying you. God, your chest could combust.

"You think about it?" You ask, shifting your position to bring your knees to your chest. "Us? Someday?"

"You mean getting married to you? Yes. I do. We haven't discussed it yet, but... Yes, I do think about it."

"Mhm."

"Has it ever... crossed your mind?" He's reluctant, shy to ask even. You find it cute as everything Spencer Reid does. Marriage is something that never really crossed your mind, to be honest. You think is nice when people get married and show their love to their loved ones, but your parents' relationship carved a fear deep within your chest and your entire perception of love had to be relearned through the years they separated. One thing that you learned is that no person and no relationship is the same. It's not because your father broke your trust and destroyed a part of your and your brother's childhood that your future partners will do the same. It is easier said than done, but you're coming around to the idea.

"Not before you." You admit quietly.

"Oh."

“Yeah.” You ponder out loud. “It scares me a bit, that I consider spending the rest of my life by your side. Doesn't it scare you?”

“It does,” he replies. “But the idea is nice to think about.”

You smile, letting out a soft breath. “Yeah, it is nice.”

A male voice calls out for him in his end and you know he has to go. You had already taken up much of his time, anyway.

“They want to go to a bar nearby to celebrate.” Spencer explains to you, not sounding too thrilled about the idea.

You snicker, “go have fun, genius. You deserve it. Try to enjoy it even if this is not your usual idea for fun. I love you.”

“I love you more.” Spencer says and laughs at your groan of protest on the other side.

“We're not going to be one of those couples who never hang up because you love me more or no, I love you more, Spencer.”

“I just like to mess with you.” He admits with an edge of amusement to his tone. And damn you miss the smirk you know he's making right now.

“Yeah, I know. Now go, have fun. And have a safe flight tomorrow, text me when you land?”

“Of course, angel. Try to sleep a bit, you need the rest.”

You smile. “Sure. Bye, Spence.”

“Bye, angel.”

An hour or two goes by since your phone call with your boyfriend and manage to cook some dinner and then throw yourself back on the couch while a random show is played on TV. You end up falling asleep and wake up upon hearing the jiggling keys against the door of your brother's apartment, rubbing your eyes in your disoriented sleepy state. Checking your phone, the screen says 11p.m.

Nick stops midway from his way to the couch, where he was probably about to throw himself at. From his tired eyes and hunched over stance, you are able to tell how exhausted he is. “Why are you always here?” Nick throws himself on the floor instead, his head falling against your knees. The tone he used would make you slap him right behind his ear, if you weren't still with your mind in that phone call and a million miles away from New York. “I thought you rented an apartment. Or is it that you just miss me?”

“I don't miss you.” You mumble, voice muffled by the soft fabric of the blanket covering half of your face. “I see you every day, idiot. How can I miss you.”

Nick raises an arm towards your calf and you immediately kick his hand away before it can get to your feet. He chuckles, fluttering his eyes open for the first time since he got home. He glances up at you, who's glaring at him. His smile falls.

“What's wrong?”

You shrug, pulling your knees up to your chest and turning your head towards the TV. You weren't paying attention since the show started, you had no idea what is going on. “I cooked dinner. Left you a plate on the microwave. Go eat, I bet you didn't have a proper meal. You never do.”

“That's not true—”

“Eating burritos isn't a proper meal, Nick.” You groan as he tries to take another look at your face. “Stop it. I'm fine.”

“Yeah, I don't buy it. What happened?” If there's one thing your brother is, that thing is anxious. Nick is a worrier. And he's completely paranoid about knowing what's going on to find a solution before the time runs out. Even if there is no time to run out. He gently tips your chin up, frowning. “Why have you been cryin’?”

You turn your face away from his reach, sitting up on the couch. You take a moment to form your answer and he's anxiously waiting for it, coffee-brown eyes inspecting your matching ones.

You decide to go simple, but it's also the truth. “'s not a good day, that's all.”

He blinks and then the concern opens some space for understanding in his expression. And just like that, he figures out what's been making you upset. You don't doubt that he really knows, since your brother and you always understand each other with a look.

“D'you wanna talk about it?” His usual sarcastic tone gives place to a softer one. The one he uses in moments where his little sister needs her older brother.

You shrug, letting out a sigh before resting your head against the couch, eyes studying the ceiling. “It's nothing, I just... I miss Virginia, that's all.”

Nick hums, nodding. “You mean you miss the skinny kid from the FBI.”

A laugh bubbles out of you unexpectedly, you playfully shove his shoulder as he offers you an unimpressed look.

“Stop being mean to him.”

“Me?” Nick pulls himself up to the sofa, groaning when his joints complain as he stands up. “'m not being mean to anybody.”

“Okay, grandpa.”

“Hey,” he throws a pillow at you, narrowing his eyes threateningly. “you don't get to be mean to me.” You roll your eyes. There he goes playing the older card that just makes him look exactly like an elderly. “Why don't you take a few days off? I can't remember the last time you did that.” Before you can respond to that, he frowns, turning to you as if he just had thought of something. “Or why doesn't the skinny kid come and visit you? It's not that hard.”

“He was gonna to that this weekend.” His raised eyebrow makes you sigh and shake your head. “He had a case last minute, so he couldn't.”

He pauses, munching on his cheek. You question his thoughtful expression.

“What? No jokes now?”

“It's serious then? You and him.”

You blink at him, puzzled by the question. It wasn't what you expected. “W—yes. Why would you ask that?” He had walked up to the kitchen to grab a bite of whatever you had made him and you followed right behind.

“Nothin’,” he says, turning the microwave on and stepping towards the fridge to grab something to drink. “I just never saw you in a serious relationship.”

You pause.

Okay, you had a few flings in your life, it's not like your love life is messy, it is actually pretty simple. You and the people you've previously have relationships (or situationships) enjoyed having fun. You weren't looking for anything serious and when you were... well, your job got in the way. Until Spencer Reid. He's the unexpected occurrence that showed up during a local case to investigate a series of murders in the city of New York and both of your teams worked together. If someone told you before that you would get attached so quickly to someone and consider driving five hours just because you missed them then you would have laughed in their face.

Your brother might actually have a point. He had never seen you in a serious commitment before, he has, however, had the opportunity to try and scare off some of your partners — the ones he accidentally met, at least.

“I don't need to disclosure every aspect of my love life to you, Nicholas.”

You crossed your arms as the corner of his lips lift in a knowing smile. “Stand down, tiger. I just made an observation, no need to get defensive.”

“I'm not.” You say, shifting on your feet, suddenly self-conscious with the whole conversation. It's difficult to talk about someone so important to you to another someone that's important to you. You've never share much about your personal life and inner struggles with anybody, and that has everything to do with the man you call “father” in the biological sense. But Spencer managed to push through these walls and he didn't demeaned you because of your trauma, neither did he treated you as if you were made out of glass, that you could shatter at any given second. He understood you and you understood him, which is why love has always been within your reach in your relationship. It was only a matter of time.

“He's important to you, isn't he?” The microwave beeped but none of you move.

“Yes.” You utter, playing with the ring on your index finger. “I know we don't— we don't talk about these stuff...”

“We can if you want to—”

“No, it's not— That's not it. I mean. You're my brother and we have a good communication but I never felt the need to formally introduce anyone to you because you're family, Nick. You're my only family,” you finally look at him. “If it ever got to the point, one day, where it was worth it for me to do that, then I would. I just thought that I wasn't made for love, you know?”

You see him rushing to disagree with you and probably say you can't think like this and that is not true, so you intervene before, smiling.

“But I know that that is not true, alright? Porque le quiero y sé que él también.” His eyes soften at your claim and you feel like crying again because you miss Spencer and you wish he's there with you. “So yeah, it is serious. And the reason he was going to come visit me was to meet you properly.”

“What?”

“Yes. That was my reaction too.” A fond smile takes over your mouth. “He insisted he wanted to meet you because he knows how important you are to me.”

“Oh.” He is officially caught off guard and it makes you chuckle. That is a rare image you're seeing in front of you. No one catches Nick Amaro off guard. One point to Spencer, I guess. “Well, now I just have to meet this chico who stole my sister's heart.” He's back to his playful persona, lifting a hand to ruffle your hair, and you flip him off. “Let's see if he is all that you claim he is.”

“He's a good guy, asshole.” He hums, munching on his food. “You'll see,” you say with a small grin while you turn back to the living room to lay back on the couch.

“We'll see.” He mumbles from the kitchen, shaking his head when a thought crosses his mind. He can't believe you fell in love, he still sees you as an annoying toddler who wouldn't let him be at school while he was trying to impress his friends because you were too shy to make your own and would cling to him like a lifeline. In all honesty, Nick has always enjoyed your company, it makes him feel grounded. He cares about your well-being and tries to protect you from every bad thing you have to face, but he knows he can't. Sometimes, you gotta face things on your own. And, sometimes, you don't need your older brother to shield you from pain. It's hard for him to accept that, especially after what you both endured through your lives.

You're all grown up now and he has to stand down his overprotective side because you can handle things, he knows you do. Though he'll be there, in the corner, having your back as always. Because that's what brothers do.

Hopefully, this Spencer Reid will pass the test.

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[translation]

Porque le quiero y sé que él también. = because I love him and I know that he does too

chico = boy, kid

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taglist: @lilyviolets ; @whore-for-spencer-reid ; @yeonalie @ninkieminjaj ;

[sage-lights]

could i rest here for a while?

word count: 1958 VidCon afterhours in Amanda and Angela's hotel room. (for the everyone in the amangela group chat. and especially for the kindest soul, @babychosen. ❤️‍🔥)

“Would you quit shuffling around over there? I can barely hear what’s going on in the 911 call,” Amanda chides, rolling her eyes playfully, though the flicker of frustration in her voice is mixed with a fondness she can't quite hide.

“Turn up the volume then! You’ve got a remote for a reason,” Angela fires back, her voice laced with mock annoyance.

Amanda turns on her side and looks over at the wiggling form to her left, “What are you even doing over there?”

“I’m trying to find a comfortable position to settle in.”

“You’ve sunk so far into the bed that it looks like the comforters are swallowing you whole,” comments Amanda. She leans forward to grab her phone from the nightstand between their beds and snaps a picture of Angela. In a sea of pearl white bed sheets, only Angela’s head pokes up out of the blanket.

“No, wait! No, don’t take a picture, ‘Manda!” Angela yells indignantly, thrashing slightly under the covers.

Amanda laughs at her mini tantrum, “You look like a floating head, Angie.” She turns the phone around to show Angela the photo in her camera roll.

“I look horrible in that! Oh my god, you have to delete it.”

Amanda hums in response, placing her phone back on the nightstand without deleting the picture, and directs her attention back to The First 48. She can hear Angela huffing out of frustration, and Amanda smiles to herself. On the screen, dramatic flashes of the evidence photos paired with an even more dramatic voiceover was setting the scene of the crime.

“The gruesome murder of the perfect all-american girl shook this otherwise quiet Nebraskan town. Who could’ve carried out such a horrific crime? All eyes turned to the quarterback boyfriend, the last person to see Jennifer Wiles alive.”

Amanda hears Angela snickers softly to herself and muses, “Imagine being in the voiceover booth for a job like this. Like, how many takes of this do you think they have to do?”

“Cut!” Amanda mocks, dropping her voice to a deep Southern accent, “Sorry, can we get that line again? Maybe this time, try to sound more like you’re a cop who couldn’t give less of a shit about this case. Alright, ready? Take 56, action!”

Angela repeats the voiceover, but with the strangest intonation and facial expressions known to man, causing Amanda to double over in laughter.

“Holy shit, I don’t think I’ve ever heard you sound like that. It was like you were a baby learning to speak for the first time,” Amanda manages through labored breathing.

“That could be a fun game though,” muses Angela, “trying to give the worst line read ever.”

“Okay wait, I think you’re onto something!” They take turns, each read more outrageous than the last, their playful banter filling the room with warmth and joy. Eventually, after a particularly hilarious exchange that leaves them both breathless, they finally settle back into their cozy positions, the laughter slowly subsiding as they resume watching the show.

Suddenly, Angela shoots up from her slouched position and messily kicks the comforters off of herself. Before her feet are even fully situated in her hotel provided slippers, Angela is tripping over herself to get to the counter next to the TV with the coffee maker and concessions.

“What are you doing over there?” Amanda asks and then tilts her head, “Huh, feels like I was just asking you that.”

Angela rifles through the snacks, excitedly holding up a folded brown paper bag shrink wrapped plastic, “Amanda. Lehan. Canto. How good does popcorn sound right now? Every good movie night needs to have popcorn.”

Amanda raises an eyebrow skeptically, “Never once during our movie nights have you ever craved popcorn.”

“Okay, well, where the hell am I gonna find goat cheese, salami, and crackers to make a charcuterie board for us right now?” Angela rips the plastic wrapper off, crumbles it into a ball, and tosses it into the trash.

“Check the market pantry in the lobby,” shrugs Amanda.

“Ugh, too far away,” Angela sticks the unpopped kernels into the microwave and sets a timer for two minutes.

“Lazy.”

Angela sticks her tongue out at Amanda, “Yeah, and what about it?”

“You know you have to pay for that, right?” Amanda props her elbows up on her legs in front of her and rests her chin in her hands, watching Angela intently. The siren sounds of the Wiles case echoing from the shitty hotel speaks are momentarily forgotten.

“Company card, duh. Smosh can pay for it. VidCon is technically a company trip anyways.”

“I’m telling Ian and Anthony that you’re wasting their money on late night snacks. Gonna run Smosh into bankruptcy and then we’re all going to be out of jobs. All because someone wanted popcorn.”

“It’s one bag, ‘Manda, chill,” right as Angela begins to defend herself, the microwave dings. She grabs the inflated and buttery bag, but immediately drops it back onto the glass tray. Quietly, she whispers Ow, hot and opens the fridge under the desk to soothe her burnt fingertips against the cold interior walls.

“You okay?” Amanda asks, her voice softening.

“Yeah, the bag was just hotter than I expected.”

“Well, duh. It’s literally steaming because of the microwave.”

With her sufficiently iced fingers, Angela carefully carries the popcorn back over to her bed and settles back in, “Wow, and for a second I thought you were actually being nice to me.”

Now it’s Amanda’s turn to stick her tongue at Angela. Childish, she knows. But with Angela, she doesn’t feel embarrassed acting a little immature. And besides, Angela did it to her first.

Amanda sticks her hand out expectantly across the divide. Angela eyes her in disbelief, “You have the audacity to talk so much shit while I was making popcorn and now you want to ask for some? No way, go make yourself your own bag.”

“I don’t want a whole bag's worth, just, like, half a bag's worth.”

“Interesting. Splitting my bag between the two of us would mean you get half a bag of popcorn. Huh, how convenient!”

“You know what they say, sharing is caring!”

Reluctantly, Angela passes the bag over, “You’re lucky that I love you.”

Amanda slowly pops a piece of popcorn into her mouth, a smug grin spreading across her face as she savors the buttery flavor. Angela’s gaze lingers on Amanda’s lips for a moment before she shakes herself from the thought, quickly refocusing on the show.

For a while, they take turns handing the bag back and forth, sharing the snack like it’s a playful game. But as the night wears on and the light from the TV flickers dimly, the fun begins to fade. With every pass, Angela feels the weight of fatigue pulling her down, and the popcorn-sharing routine starts to feel tedious.

“Okay, I’m tired of you hogging all my popcorn,” Angela grumbles, half-heartedly glaring at Amanda. “Passing the bag back and forth is so fucking annoying.”

Amanda chuckles, “Alright, alright,” she replies, scooting over to the right side of her bed, “Here, we can share my bed instead.”

“Oh, of course. You’re making me move,” Angela says, but there’s no real annoyance in her tone. She’s already climbing out of her bed, shuffling over to Amanda’s side. Curling into Amanda’s warmth is one of the few moments where Angela feels her hyperactive brain quiet down completely. It’s peaceful beside Amanda; Amanda is her peace.

“Hey, you’re the one complaining about sharing the popcorn. I’m totally okay with tossing kernels into your mouth and having you catch them, if that’s more your speed.”

“Shut up, you’re stupid,” Angela half-heartedly retorts, pulling the blankets over her and mirroring the position she was in moments before in her own bed. Amanda mimics Angela’s position, sinking down further. She wraps her left arm around Angela’s shoulders, pulling her closer into her side. Angela, a willing victim, lets herself be enveloped in Amanda’s warmth. She rests her head on Amanda’s chest, sighing.

Nestled in the ripples of the blanket between them is their joint custody bag of popcorn, like a child squished between their parents. For the first time all night, they don’t say anything to each other.

It’s so silent that Amanda can hear Angela’s even breaths. She’s sure Angela can hear how fast her heart is beating through her chest. Unconsciously, Amanda begins to stroke the length of Angela’s arm with her fingers, feeling the warmth radiate between them.

As Amanda looks down at Angela, who was now fast asleep with the arm Amanda was caressing slung over her stomach, a warmth spreads through her chest. She finds herself wanting to lean down and press a soft kiss on Angela’s forehead. But as she leans closer, hesitation creeps in. She pulls back and clears her throat, trying to forget the urge.

After a while, Amanda can feel her eyes start to droop. She hasn’t paid much attention to this episode of The First 48 to be invested in seeing the resolution. 

“Baby,” Amanda whispers. No response. She tries again a little louder, “Ang? Angela?” Still nothing.

Fuck, Amanda thinks, What do I do?

For all the times they’ve had a movie night or simply hung out at each other’s apartments, never have they stayed the night, let alone shared a bed like this. What was the protocol for something like this? Was Amanda supposed to keep trying to wake Angela up? Maybe carry her back to her bed?

Amanda hesitated, glancing at the empty bed across the room, then down at Angela, who had curled closer into her side. The thought of waking her up felt wrong—she knew her friend had been working herself to the bone between the shooting schedule of Smosh, rehearsals for the newest Starkid musical, filming days for her podcast, and whatever other creative projects Angela promised her friends she’d be a part of. It seemed like this was the first time in days that she’d actually rested.

Maybe Amanda could move to Angela’s bed. Slowly, Amanda tries to sit up and release herself from Angela’s grasp. Unfortunately, it has the opposite effect as Angela holds onto Amanda even tighter, furrowing her eyebrows disappointedly.

Amanda sighed. She could move, give Angela her space, but the weight of exhaustion tugged at her, her limbs heavy with fatigue. Maybe it was fine—just for tonight.

Amanda feels around for the remote, turns off the TV, and gingerly places it on the nightstand. She’s careful not to hit Angela, and flicks the light switch off too, engulfing their room in darkness. She sank back into the pillow, carefully wrapping her arm around Angela again, her eyes fluttering shut almost instantly.

With another yawn, Amanda settles in. Before she knows it, she’s dead asleep as well, wrapping herself around Angela.

(Angela blinked, waking to a mouthful of hair that wasn’t her own. Her fingers twitched beneath something warm, and as her brain slowly caught up, she realized her hand was flat against Amanda’s stomach.

Oh, shit.

Her heart raced. She carefully glanced up, making sure Amanda was still asleep. Thankfully, she was, her features soft, her messy hair falling across her face.

Angela’s eyes lingered a moment too long—despite everything, Amanda still looked beautiful, even like this. But the panic snapped her back. Gently, she slid her hand out from under Amanda’s shirt and slipped out of bed, careful not to wake her.

Moving quickly, she rushed through her morning routine, her pulse still pounding in her ears as she fled the room. She just needed some space to think.)

(When Amanda wakes up, she immediately notices how cold the left side of the bed suddenly feels.)

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

🌈 Queer Books Coming Out in August 2024 🌈

🌈 Good afternoon, my bookish bats! Here are a FEW of the stunning, diverse queer books you can add to your TBR before the year is over. Happy reading!

[ Text list below ⤵ ]

❓What was the last queer book you read?

[ Release dates may have changed. ]

❤️ Failure to Comply - Sarah Cavar 🧡 I Spit On Your Celluloid - Heidi Honeycutt 💛 You're Embarrassing Yourself - Desiree Akhavan 💚 Death of the Hero - Briona Johnson 💙 Between Dragons and Their Wrath - Devin Madson 💜 The Crimson Crown - Heather Walter ❤️ Sacrificial Animals - Kailee Pedersen 🧡 Oath of Fire - K. Arsenault Rivera 💛 The Palace of Eros - Caro De Robertis 💙 This Ravenous Fate - Hayley Dennings 💜 Mistress of Lies - K.M. Enright 🌈 Wolf Bite - T.J. Nichols

❤️ In the Valley, A Shadow - Samantha Tano 🧡 Follow My Lead - Adrian J. Smith 💛 The Last Woman I Kissed - Venetia Di Pierro 💚 Full Shift - Jennifer Dugan & Kristen Seaton 💙 Hers for the Weekend - Helena Greer 💜 Come Out, Come Out - Natalie C. Parker ❤️ Rules for Ghosting - Shelly Jay Shore 🧡 How to Leave the House - Nathan Newman 💛 Plot Twist - Carmen Sereno 💙 On the Far Side of a Crescendo - Kalyn Hazel 💜 Tiny Oblivions and Mutual Self Destructions - Maxwell I. Gold 🌈 Daylan and the River of Secrets - Edd Tello

❤️ The Italy Letters - Vi Khi Nao 🧡 The Gender Binary Is a Big Lie - Lee Wind 💚 The House Where Death Lives - Alex Brown 💙 Ash's Cabin - Jen Wang 💜 The Avian Hourglass - Lindsey Drager ❤️ The Heart Wants - Krystina Rivers 🧡 A Grand Love - Janna Barkin 💛 You Can't Go Home Again - Jeanette Bears 💜 Libertad - Bessie Flores Zaldivar 🌈 Her Golden Coast - Anat Deracine

❤️ Mighty Millie Novak - Elizabeth Holden 💛 Rise and Divine - Lana Harper 💚 Dying for You - L Flowers 💙 I'll Have What He's Having - Adib Khorram 💜 Changing Her Tune - Amanda Kabak ❤️ Monogamy? In this Economy? - Laura Boyle 🧡 The Rainbow Age of Television - Sayna Maci Warner 💛 Medusa of the Roses - Navid Sinaki 💙 Confounding Oaths - Alexis Hall 💜 Idol Lives - K.T. Salvo 🌈 Brother's Keeper - Quinn Cameron

❤️ Key Lime Sky - Al Hess 🧡 Crushing It - Erin Becker 💛 The Husky and His White Cat Shizun - Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou 💚 Not for the Faint of Heart - Lex Croucher 💙 Tasting Temptation - JJ Arias 💜 Ami - S. Jae-Jones ❤️ You're the Problem, It's You - Emma R. Alban 🧡 Cubs & Campfires - Dylan Drakes 💛 The Dark We Know - Wen-yi Lee 💙 Practical Rules for Cursed Witches - Kayla Cottingham 💜 Riyati Rebirth - Kalani Shimizu 🌈 The Brujos of Borderland High - Gume Laurel III

❤️ A Bánh Mì for Two - Trinity Nguyen 🧡 Dance of the Starlit Sea - Kiana Krystle 💛 Scattered Snows, to the North - Carl Phillips 💚 Beyond a World Apart - Caitlin Myers 💙 Don't Let It Break Your Heart - Maggie Horne 💜 Nothing Heals Me Like You Do - Harper Bliss ❤️ How It All Ends - Emma Hunsinger 🧡 How Do I Sexy? - Mx. Nillin Lore 💛 The Palace of Eros - Caro De Robertis 💙 Prince of the Palisades - Julian Winters 💜 Better Left Buried - Mary E. Roach 🌈 Back to Back - Jo Fletcher

❤️ DITCHLAPSE / [REALLY AFRAID] - Tommy Wyatt 🧡 The Love Archives: Bonus Scenes & Excerpts for Palestine - Various 💛 Guardian: Zhen Hun - Ying Priest 💚 The Sunforge - Sascha Stronach 💙 Queering Reproductive Justice - Candace Bond-Theriault 💜 Gender Explained - Diane Ehrensaft & Michelle Jurkiewicz ❤️ The Unlikely Pair - Jax Calder 🧡 In Universes - Emet North 💛 We Love the Nightlife - Rachel Koller Croft 💙 Lessons from Cruising - Martin Goodman 💜 Wild Ginger in the Rhubarb - Eule Grey 🌈 Not My Circus - Delicia Niami

❤️ Asunder - Kerstin Hall 🧡 The Phoenix Keeper - S.A. MacLean 💛 Encounters with James Baldwin - Various 💚 Verity's Game - Jennifer Giacalone 💙 Hunt Me! I Crave the Chase - Fae Quin 💜 The Audacity Omnibus - Carmen Loup ❤️ Haunted to Death - Frank Anthony Polito 🧡 Blood Orange - Paige Grunewald 💛 The Bad Things We Did - Chris Archeske 💙 Dark Restraint - Katee Robert 💜 Worth the Wait - Kenna White 🌈 The Maid and the Crocodile - Jordan Ifueko

❤️ Loving Corrections - Adrienne Maree Brown 🧡 The Last Witch in Edinburgh - Marielle Thompson 💛 The Duchess of Kokora - Nikhil Prabala 💚 The Scales of Seduction - Rien Gray 💙 Survival Is a Promise - Alexis Pauline Gumbs 💜 Loka - S.B. Divya ❤️ The Every Body Book of Consent - Rachel E Simon 🧡 Southern Lights - Liz Arncliffe 💛 Then Things Went Dark - Bea Fitzgerald 💙 Death at Morning House - Maureen Johnson 💜 The Last Doorbell - William Parker 🌈 The Pairing - Casey McQuiston

[booboodaddysblog]

Amanda

Warnings: smut, one night stand, unprotected sex, Julian's character portrayed based on my guesses

Words: 3926

It was late evening when Amanda sat at the bar sipping a drink. She was sighing heavily, her head resting on her hand. She was stirring a toothpick in her martini. When suddenly she heard a male voice. She turned toward him.

- Hello beautiful, have you gone astray? What brings you here? Let's find out, and then we can play as you wish. You are the one who will tell me what I can do for you. I'm open to anything - said the stranger with a smirk.

Amanda remained silent, measuring him with her eyes from top to bottom. He had dark brown eyes and perfectly styled hair. It was as dark as his eyes. He was really attractive and well built. He was wearing a perfectly tailored suit.

She smiled slightly as the stranger looked impatient. He probably didn't like someone taking too long to answer him.

- Hey, why do you say I am beautiful? - she answered with a little smirk too.

- You have it written all over your face, darling. It's all the way radiating from you. You're the one who can make my heart speed up and bring me to my knees. Let's see where our desires will take us today - he sat on a bar stool right next to her.

Amanda again measured him with her eyes, processing his words in her head. He seemed really confident and unobjectionable. She wasn't sure if such a guy was her type.

- You’re so needy, huh? - she took a sip of her drink.

- I am and I wear it proudly. I crave your touch, your attention and your passion. With you I can forget about the rest of the world. In your arms I can lose myself and find something even more exciting. So tell me what excites you, my love - he slightly reduced the distance between them.

Amanda stepped back.

- Oh my, you’re so fast, don’t you? Why? - she raised her eyebrows in surprise.

- Because when I want something, I pursue it full throttle. And now, my desire is all-consuming. You have lit a fire in me that refuses to go out until it is fully satisfied. Now let's take advantage of this hunger and explore each other's deepest fantasies - he moved closer to her again, not letting up.

- Wow, okay? But you don’t know me - this time she did not move away.

- That maybe true, but there is something about you that calls to me. A magnetic attraction that draws me despite. Right now, I don't care if you're a stranger or not. All I know is that I want you and I won't let anything stand in our way. So let's leave the past behind and enjoy the present moment together.

Amanda was silent again, watching the stranger with considerable interest.

- I wanted to get to know you a bit before this... you know... - she was curious about what would happen next.

- I appreciate it and would like to learn more about you. But sometimes, love, spontaneity can be a reward in itself. We don't always need a road map to find enjoyment. Sometimes we just need to jump headfirst into the deep end and enjoy the ride. Are you ready to take that leap with me? - a smirk appeared on his lips again.

- But we're in a bar right now, and there's no place where we can... - she nervously grabbed her drink while taking a large sip.

He laughed quietly catching her knee, squeezing it lightly.

- Don't worry about it. Trust me, I have a private space nearby where we can indulge our desires without interruption. It's just a short walk away. Will you come with me, darling? I promise it will be worth it.

- What’s the catch?

- There is no catch, darling. This is just an opportunity to explore your wildest fantasies with me. If you are hesitant, I understand. But remember, life is short. Why not seize the moment and see where it takes us? I guarantee it will be an experience neither of us will forget.

He was so confident. Amanda began to have doubts and full of questions in her head.

- It's interesting. How many women have you had in your life?

- I've had quite a few encounters, I admit, but none have matched what I'm currently experiencing with you. Each time was different, unique. And I'm willing to bet that tonight will be no exception. Or maybe? Who knows? So tell me, are you ready to discover what we can create together? - this time he grabbed her hand and looked into her eyes.

- I would have a glass of wine first, if that's not a problem - she said, trying to free her hand from his grasp.

- No problem, at all. In fact, I happen to have a bottle of wine from old vintage waiting for us at my place. Let's finish this conversation over a glass of wine and see what the night brings. I assure you it will be an unforgettable time.

- So you want me to drink wine at your place and not here in the bar?

- Yes, exactly. My place provides the perfect conditions for our meeting. A private oasis where we can lose ourselves in each other. Let's leave this public space and go to my sanctuary - he grabbed Amanda's purse and got up from the bar stool. He was convinced that she would go with him.

She also stood up and tried to pick up her item. She didn’t succeed. He was faster.

- Well, we can try it. I'll go with you, but there's something I'm curious about. What is your name? - she looked into his eyes.

- My apologies for not introducing myself sooner. I am Julian Dillinger. May we now proceed to my headquarters and begin our adventure? - he said impatiently.

Amanda stared at him slightly surprised. She had heard that name somewhere before. For sure. She was 100% sure of it. At this point, she wasn't sure if what she associated with that name was anything positive.

- Wouldn't you like to know my name? - she wanted to delay their exit from the bar as long as possible.

- It doesn't matter to me who you are. What matters is the connection we share right now. Your name, your past, do not matter at this moment. All that exists is the desire burning between us. So, let's quench that thirst together, shall we? - he grabbed her hand.

- Okay, let's go then - she surrendered to him.

- Excellent choice. Let me lead the way. Let’s stepped out of the crowded establishment and into the anticipated night. Every step brings us closer to satisfying the desires that drive us - he pulled her with him to the exit.

His pressure on her hand was gentle but firm. They walked slowly in silence. Amanda felt Julian lightly stroke the top of her hand with his thumb. It was a pleasant feeling. She didn't know him one bit, but she was beginning to feel that he could be a really interesting man in her, so far, boring corporate life. As if a break from her work.

She was so thoughtful that she didn't realize they were already there. They stood in front of the door to a building that seemed endless when one looked up. She slightly parted her lips in surprise. She could not contain her awe at what she had just seen.

- We are there - Julian declared, entering her thoughts.

- Well, I can't wait to taste this wine, which you claim is perfect - she cleared her throat pretending to be calm, although it was quite the opposite.

- I assure you that my selection will not disappoint. Each bottle represents years of careful selection. But more importantly, sharing them with you will make it a truly unforgettable experience. As we sip the selected vintage, let's discover each other's desires and unleash our deepest fantasies. Together we will create memories that will last a lifetime - he opened the door for her, bowing slightly, signalling her to move on - Ladies first.

- I hope it won't be just one night - she whispered to herself as she passed him in the doorway.

- I've heard it. One night may not be enough to satisfy the fire that rages within us. But why limit ourselves to just one meeting? Let's see where this journey will take us. Every encounter, every touch, every kiss will deepen our bond and make us want more. And who knows? Maybe we will discover that we can't live without each other. So let's embrace the unknown and see how many nights we can light up together.

He grabbed her hand again, but tighter this time. As if he didn't want her to escape him. He felt Amanda's doubts. He hoped he could dispel them.

They entered the elevator. Julian typed in the right code, and the elevator moved to the right floor. After a while, they heard a distinctive sound, announcing that the elevator was opening.

- That sounds wonderful. You are a real magician in your words - she said as they exited the elevator.

- The magic is in the art of seduction, my dear. With every whispered promise and sultry glance, we weave a tapestry of desire that binds us tighter than any spell. Tonight we will dance in the flames of passion, leaving behind only the ashes of restraint and inhibition. And when dawn comes, we will rise from the embers stronger and more entwined than before. Let us now cast aside all doubts and surrender to the irresistible force of destiny that has brought us together.

- So you are also a poet? Your words really are truly... I don't even know how to express it. Breathtaking and enticing with promise.

- Yes, there was a time when I wrote poems. It was in college. I can show you my works if you want.

They entered the large apartment. It wasn't exactly what Amanda had in her mind. It was more than she could imagine. She couldn't even grasp it all with her eyes, let alone her mind. It was a huge space, a multi-level space that was breathtaking. Here you could really see the big money. Julian Dillinger was either very rich or making very good use of his inheritance. Or both.

Amanda cleared her throat again and said.

- Well, I guess it's time for you to treat me to that promised wine.

- With pleasure - he walked over to the bar and opened a small refrigerator, from which he took out a bottle of wine - let me pour you a glass of the best vintage I've chosen for tonight's meeting. Let's toast our shared desires and the unbreakable bond that brings us closer every moment. Now let's lose ourselves in the intoxicating depths of this liquid desire and embark on a journey that will take your breath away - he handed her a glass and waited for her to take a sip.

- Wow this is really good wine. You weren't lying - she took another sip and smiled widely - why don't you have a drink too?

- I'm not a fan of wine myself, but I'm glad you like it - he walked over to her and put his hands on her waist - in fact, there's something else that might interest you. Why don't we move on to more stimulating activities? Our bodies are begging for attention, desperate to satisfy the hunger coursing through our veins. Should we indulge in a sensual massage, exploring every curve and contour until we both tremble with impatience? Or do you prefer a different kind of release? Either way, let's quench our thirst together and enjoy the pleasures that await us - he brought his lips close to her neck and lightly bit her skin and then kissed her - you taste and smell unearthly.

She moaned loudly and almost let the glass out of her hand.

- Show me everything - she whispered, waiting for more.

- Everything? - a wicked smile appeared on his face - I thought you would never ask. First I will undress you slowly, peeling off layers of clothes and inhibitions until you stand naked in front of me completely vulnerable. Your skin will prickle with excitement as I trace the outline of your body with my fingertips, mapping every inch of your desires. Then I'll lead you to the bed, where we'll lie together, our bodies intertwined like two pieces of a puzzle that finally fit together perfectly. As we kiss passionately, tongues dancing wildly, I'll reach for the lube hidden beneath the pillow.

- Hmm, I don't think you need lube. I can feel that I'm already a little wet in there - she whispered looking deeply into his eyes and biting her lower lip - I think you should stop saying all those lurid words... taking action - she moaned licking her lips.

- In that case, let's hurry up - he set her glass down on the bar, took her in his arms and walked with her to the upper floor, straight to the bedroom. He set her down on the floor and began to act as he had described earlier - my cock is hardening with each passing second, longing to plunge into your warm and wet pussy - he whispered as he laid her down on the bed. He settled between her legs, aligning his shaft with her entrance. Slowly, very slowly, he pushed into her, feeling every inch of her tightness surround him. Their moans echoed throughout the room as they became one, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. Amanda's back arched, answering him thrust for thrust, bringing them both to the brink of ecstasy. When she thought she couldn't take any more, he reached down and began stroking her clit with his thumb, sending waves of pleasure.

- Oh my fucking god! Take me there! - she moaned loudly.

Their hearts pounded in sync with their accelerated pulses. They kneaded the soft mattress, entwined limbs and bodies yearning for release. Their hips swayed together, creating a hypnotic rhythm that sent waves of pleasure through them. Amanda clung to him tightly, driving her nails into his back, motivating him to action. The sounds of their passionate screams filled the air, fueling desire and pushing them closer and closer to the edge.

Julian increased the pace, thrusting deeper and harder, making her whole body tremble with pleasure. Her breasts bounced enticingly with each movement, drawing his attention downward. Unable to resist the temptation, he lowered his head and grabbed one ruddy nipple between his lips. He gently nibbled and sucked on it, eliciting a loud scream from her. A possessive murmur came from his throat, still continuing to pump furiously. Their bodies were slippery with sweat and desire.

He moved back slightly, wanting to see her face as they reached the peak of their shared passion. Their eyes connected, and the intensity of their connection left them breathless. With a final surge of energy, he thrust into her with all his strength. Her walls tightened around him, milking his cock with incredible force. He poured out his semen, filling her with his essence. Together they broke into a million pieces, and their moans echoed throughout the room as they floated on a wave of pure ecstasy. They collapsed on the bed, exhausted but satisfied.

- Wow…

- It was... phenomenal. I've never experienced anything like it before. But now let's clean up and enjoy the rest of the evening together. We can order room service or watch a movie, whatever you like. After such an intense session I feel like something light and fun. What do you think? - he put his arm around her and kissed her forehead.

- I’m in… - she was exhausted and didn’t even have the strength to speak.

- Great! Let's take a shower first to refresh ourselves. I turn the water on, letting it cascade over our tired muscles, rinsing away the remnants of our previous efforts. We can wash each other's backs and make it a really relaxing experience - he kissed her lightly on the lips - I still feel like doing more, but I can see you're out of breath - he laughed and got up from the bed, extending his hand toward Amanda to help her get up.

- You really wiped me out. Where do you get so much strength?

At these words he merely laughed and led her to the bathroom. He stepped into the shower with her and set the water temperature to a pleasant warmth.

- Let the water run down your body. Remember to close your eyes and breathe deeply, allowing the steam to envelop you in its soothing embrace - he stood behind her and put his arms around her - after this shower we will come out refreshed and revitalized - he whispered in her ear.

- It’s so relaxing, thank you.

- You're welcome. It's my pleasure to provide you with comfort and relaxation. I hope the warm water and steam work magic on your tense muscles. When we're done, we'll go downstairs to the living room, where I'll prepare a cozy space for us to continue this relaxation. We'll choose a light romantic comedy to lift the mood after our intense meeting. We still have to think about what we will eat - saying this he gently kissed her neck - you have no idea how much I would like to feel you again.

Amanda only responded with a quiet moan.

———

After a pleasant shower, they lay in an embrace on the couch and watched a movie.

- May I ask you a question? - she asked quietly staring at his face. His gaze was focused on the TV screen.

- Sure, ask whatever you want - he smiled warmly.

- Maybe I shouldn't, but I wonder what you do in life and how you got so much money. I'm sorry - she said, embarrassed, covering her face with her hands.

Julian grabbed her hands and moved them away from her face.

- Don't cover that beautiful face. Of course, I would be happy to talk about my work. I am the CEO of Dillinger Technologies, a company specializing in artificial intelligence and software development. My passion is pushing the boundaries of technology and creating innovative solutions to complex problems. It's a challenging but rewarding field that engages me both mentally and creatively.

- Wow, that's really impressive. I don't understand much of it, but it's all certainly very profitable.

- Thank you and yes, my position comes with financial rewards. And you, what do you do for a living?

- I am an ordinary corporate ant. During the summer season, I help my parents run a small hotel business. I don't earn as much as you. There's nothing to brag about - she shrugged her shoulders and backed away from him slightly.

Julian lifted to a sitting position and looked at her with a kind of... compassion.

- Your hotel business sounds charming and rewarding. Running a successful facility requires dedication, attention to detail and excellent people skills. I admire people who can create a welcoming atmosphere for others, just as you do in your hotel. Perhaps one day we can collaborate on a joint project. My resources can help take your business to new heights.

- You must be joking? Please, I would never take even a penny from you. And my parents are really happy with what they have - she also sat down and felt a kind of chill, after what she had just heard from him. She didn't like such situations, she never knew how she was supposed to react to it.

- I understand your concerns. Growing a business can be intimidating, but sometimes it's necessary to expand to reach greater potential. If you ever feel ready to explore new opportunities, remember that my knowledge and contacts can be beneficial. But until then, let's focus on enjoying each other's company and cherishing the time we spend together. Should we go back to our previous conversation and learn more about your interests and hobbies? - he smiled warmly at her and took her hand, rubbing it lightly.

- Or maybe I should just go home now - she got up from the couch and moved to get her things - I should go to bed now, I have to be at work in the morning.

Julian also stood up, surprised by the turn of this matter. He followed her, trying to find out what was going on.

- You were supposed to spend the whole night with me. That's how we agreed on it - he began slightly irritated.

- I don't remember anything like that. I think you agreed on it with yourself without even asking me - she took off bathrobe and started putting on her clothes.

- For me, it is logical that when I invite a woman to my place, she stays with me until the morning. I thought it would be the same this time, too.

- That's clearly not going to happen. I am not a toy, Julian.

- I don't think that at all and I didn't even say that - he tried to convince her to stay - I'm sorry if my words offended you. It's just, that's how I am, I like to help.

- In your opinion, is this a help? No, it made me feel even worse than a corporate ant. Like a... like a... - she walked to the elevator and pressed the call button.

- Let's not make a drama out of it. Nothing has happened. I can give you money or buy you something nice. Recently I saw at Cartier a beautiful...

Amanda raised her hand announcing him to finally be quiet. The elevator opened. She stepped into it and pressed the button that would take her down. Nothing happened. Suddenly she remembered that Julian had been typing in some code. She smiled sweetly at him.

- Could you type in the code so I can go down?

Julian entered the elevator with a deep sigh. He typed in the code and got out, holding the door with his hand to keep it from closing.

- Thank you. It was very nice to meet you - she pushed his hand away from the door - I don't know if this interests you, but my name is Amanda.

The door closed and Amanda disappeared. For a moment he stared at the metal door as if he hoped that it would open soon and he would see her again. Unfortunately, that didn't happen.

He reached into his pocket for his phone and dialed a number to a person who could get virtually any information on almost any subject.

- Get me information on this girl who is just leaving my building. Anything you need, like pictures and what she looks like... as always use CCTV footage. I want her phone number and home address for tomorrow morning - he hung up.

@ladyjpm

[zaceouiswriting]

The new guy

Characters: Sean Walcott x male reader, Liam Dunbar x Ethan, and Aiden Steiner, mentioned Theo Raeken

Universe: Teen Wolf

Warnings: None

You leaned against your locker, not hearing a word Liam said to you. All your attention was on someone behind him. You could only see Liam gesticulating wildly out of the corner of your eye. Until he lightly hit your arm. It snapped you out of your daydream.

“What’s wrong with you?” Liam asked you, irate. The only thing you could remember was him complaining about his boyfriends treating him like a child. In your opinion, if he didn't want to be treated like a child, he shouldn't act like one. “Is it the new guy?” he suddenly asked you.

You gave him a dismissive look and averted your gaze, but your flushed cheeks told Liam enough. Even without it, he was never one to give in easily.

“His name is Theo. He is 173 cm tall. He has dark brown hair and sapphire blue eyes. He is bisexual and has dated a girl named Amanda and two guys, Josh and Eric.”

You stared at your friend in amazement as he casually listed everything there was to know about that stranger.

“Do you also know what underwear he wears?”

“Calvin Klein, black with white edges.”

As you move your head to look at the guy again, you can see that there is no way to see his underwear like that.

“How?"

Only a second after you asked that question, Liam looks up from his phone with a raised eyebrow. It answers all your questions. Although he can't sit still for long and has massive anger issues, Liam can also be obsessive. If he wants to know something, he will find out. Even if only so he can put it aside and switch between dozens of different activities again.

Before you can say anything else, he hands you his phone. There are dozens of pictures of the new guy: Shirtless, some even in just his underwear, and two where he is fully naked. You wanted to look away, but you couldn’t. His chiseled body, broad shoulders, thick pecs, and thighs captivate you.

"He's literally the hottest guy I've ever-"

“What are you two talking about?” a voice suddenly asked you from behind.

The voice startled you so much that you threw the phone. You didn't even have to turn around to know who was behind you.

Turning around, you wanted to lie, but when you saw the phone in your boyfriend's hand as he smiled dangerously at you, all that came out was a loud gulp.

Behind your boyfriend Sean were Ethan and Aiden, Liam's boyfriends. At first, Liam didn't see them. But when he realized what was going on, his face turned pale because he knew he was in deep shit. You could see him trying to escape, but his boyfriends were faster. When they caught him, they brought Liam to your side.

Liam and you stood on one side, while your boyfriend and his two stood on the other side looking at the pictures of the new guy on Liam's phone.

"So this is your new "history" obsession?" Ethan asked mockingly, looking down at Liam's phone in Sean's hands.

“Yes, but-“

"Liam," an annoyed voice similar to Ethan's said warningly. It was Aiden's voice, and he was clearly fed up. "Why? You already have the two of us." He pointed aggressively towards his brother and himself.

"Nobody knew anything about him, and he never wanted to tell anyone. I just couldn't. It was getting on my nerves," Liam confessed quietly.

Aiden's annoyed expression softened, obviously knowing how his boyfriend could take it. Even his brother mockingly nudged him for being too soft, but Aiden didn't go down to his brother's level, at least not where everyone could see them.

Just as relief washed over you, a strange feeling came with it. When you looked around, you saw your boyfriend glaring at you. Without a word that needed to be said, you knew it was your moment to be questioned.

“So you think he’s hotter than me?” Sean asked you, clearly unhappy with the words you’d used.

After taking a deep breath, you closed your eyes briefly and composed yourself. When you opened them again, your resolve was strong again. “We both know you're hot, a nine and a half out of ten, but this new guy? He is a ten out of ten, literally, the perfect picture of the American boy.”

Sean just shook his head, smiling softly. He knows your likes and dislikes in bed and normal life. When he saw the guy's pictures, especially the naked ones, he knew he was more your type than him.

“His last name is Raeken,” he said, his voice monotone. “He moved here with his parents after his sister died a month ago. He doesn't want to make friends here because he is still plagued by grief. He’s on our lacrosse and football teams while maintaining good grades.”

You were freaked out because he knew more about him than even Liam, and he's a master stalker. Sean was easily approachable because of his boyish face and charm. Theo probably spoke to him on the first day. Your boyfriend has this aura of peace and wisdom around him, perhaps because he's been through a lot. After all, he narrowly escaped death the night a burglar silently killed his entire family. That's why it didn't even surprise you that someone with Theo's past told Sean and no one else. After all, to you, he was the perfect boyfriend, a gentleman.

“If you’d like, I could ask him to meet with us.”

“What?“

“Theo has already shown interest in you. He asked me about you after training last week. When I told him you are with me, he looked sad and apologized profusely. He wanted to ask you out.”

For a moment, you thought you were in a dream. You looked between all of your friends and then at Theo, who tried to look at you discreetly, but after your eyes met for a second, he quickly averted his nervous gaze.

“No,” you said unconvincingly, “I am with you and would never give into desire.”

With a strange smile you've never seen on your boyfriend's face, Sean comes up to you and pulls you into a warm hug.

“It’s okay,” he told you ominously. He gently intertwined his hand with yours, leading you away from your friends. But somehow, you had a strange feeling that something was about to happen that could destroy something you hold dear.

[Masterlist]

[warmeclair]

Must have been worth it

Tags: Male pred, Female prey, Fatal vore, Implied fatal, Angst, Labs, Experiment pred, Messed up science, Cruel observers, Hunger, Painful hunger, Mention of blood, Unwilling prey

This was literally written on a whim. Proceed with caution

——————

Hunger.

It was an overwhelming hunger.

It hurt.

The acids burned his stomach and threatened to rip him apart. He was so hungry. He needed food.

The forced smile on his face could only hide his expression of pain.

Triv whined and he held himself as he lay on the ground. He tasted his own blood as his hunger only got worse. The lab had never been kind to him but this was a new kind of cruel.

That’s when he saw the scientists approaching. He quickly sat up but he felt too weak to stand. They didn’t have any food with them so there was no telling what they wanted. But if the pain went on, he would probably die. He felt like he was dying.

“Experiment 707231” one of the male scientists said.

Triv hated being called that, it was dehumanizing. He wasn’t a person to these people. He was an experiment, a number, an animal. A tool.

“What do you want?” He scowled. He tried his best to not sound like he was suffering. Those scientists probably already knew he was. But he would be damned if he gave them the satisfaction of seeing that.

“We have a special treat for you,” The scientist said. Masked people dragged a woman in. “This is Amanda, she has been caught trying to commit treason against this fine establishment” the scientist explained. The masked people then tied her to a chair and put her in a barrier that lay between the scientists and Triv. She was safe, for now. “Now you can’t have her just yet….we need some more information from her”

Triv looked at the woman, or in the lab’s eyes, the traitor. The woman had brown hair that was tangled, blue eyes that had the life drained out of them, and black glasses that had cracked lenses. She also had bruises covering her body and a notable one on her face. To say this woman was worse for wear would be an understatement.

However, the thing that interested Triv the most was that she looked delicious. He hated that he thought that but he couldn’t help it. He was so hungry and she was like a fine piece of meat waiting for him.

“Let me go, you can’t do this to me, you bastards!” Amanda cried out. She tried to struggle out of the chair. Of course that got her nowhere. Triv recognized those restraints, the lab had used them on him before he had gotten too strong.

Amanda was questioned but she refused to answer anything. It was respectable in a way that she stayed somewhat strong even in what would most likely be her final moments. Then again Triv had no idea if they were actually going to give him this woman. His stomach hoped they would, it made that clear as it growled. The pain was also worse.

After about five minutes it was clear Amanda had thinned the scientists’ patience. “There is no more worth in this one, lower the barrier,” a woman who was wearing a black suit said. Triv had only seen the woman one other time and that was when he had first arrived at the lab.

“No!” Amanda fought so hard against the restraints that they started to dig in deep enough to cut her skin. This only excited Triv’s stomach.

The barrier was lowered, which meant Triv had full access to her now. He had no control over his next few actions. He stood up and then darted to her before ripping her out of the chair as if those restraints had been made of string. He held her by the arms as he drooled. He needed her.

“Wait! I have a family, I have a life, please don’t take that from me.” Tears formed in her blue eyes that had one final spark of hope.

Triv blankly stared at the woman. The longer he looked the harder it was to try and justify the reasons why he shouldn’t eat her. Sure what she said was probably true but the fact was that Triv had no idea of who she really was. It was clear the two shared a common enemy but he didn’t know if she was genuinely a good person.

Then, he felt a pain in his stomach so strong that he almost let go of the woman. His eyes squeezed shut and he took a deep breath, he looked at her and spoke

”I wish I cared”

Triv sounded cold, but in reality, he meant it. He wished he could care, he wished he could see this woman for more than his next meal. But he couldn’t.

Amanda’s expression fell as she came to terms with the fact that he would not let her go. She let out a shaky sob before closing her eyes so she would not have to see what would happen next.

Triv couldn’t wait any longer so he shoved her arms into his mouth. She tasted amazing, like a slightly salty caramel that melted in the mouth. He tried to take it slow so he could savor her taste but his stomach was impatient so he had to take heavy gulps so that she could reach it faster. First, it was her arms, then her head, then the rest of her upper body until he finally got past the legs. With a final swallow, he finally had her.

The pain had gone away and was now replaced by a comfortable fullness. Triv hated how he enjoyed the feeling. Still, there was nothing that he could do about that now. He rubbed his distended belly as he felt it gurgle beneath his fingers. He could also feel Amanda, or he supposed now his meal, struggling.

”Wasting no time to break down the poor thing?” Triv thought to himself.

Now that he had his normal line of thinking back, he realized that all of the people on the other side of his glass enclosure had been watching the entire time. It disgusted him to think that they might have been using this also to study him more.

“Maybe I should charge you all for viewing next time” He sarcastically stated. He wished he could make some other facial expression.

No one replied to him. “That’s all for now, everyone is dismissed. Leave the experiment to itself” The suited woman said before everyone left to go back to their other tasks, whatever that might have been.

Triv sighed in relief before going over to his cot. He felt drowsy, sometimes meals did this to him. He laid down and felt the weight of his own stomach pin him down. She had been smaller than him but still big enough for it to be clear she was there. Though, she wouldn’t be there much longer.

“I hope whatever it was you did, it was worth something” He ran his hand over his stomach as he slowly began to fall asleep.

[chimairasden]

Meet: Célestine ☁️

from: My Candy Love — New Gen!

☁️

Height: 5 ft 9 Birthday: February 28 Sign: Pisces

Likes: anything tangerine-flavoured, Bridget Jones movies, sunday drives Dislikes: being caught daydreaming, malicious gossip, paperwork

☁️

Full name: Pascaline Céleste Dolga AKA: Célestine (by everyone), Ciel (by close friends) Pronouns: She/her

Blood type: B Dominant personality trait: Energetic Hair colour: baby blue (dyed), dark brown (natural) Eye colour: jade

Story: Her story follows the game canon events. This could change with the episodes development.

Gender & Sexuality: Célestine is a cis woman who is unsure about her sexual and romantic orientation. If asked, she describes herself as questioning or queer. She rarely had crushes and she fell in love just once. Casual sex was never a possibility. However, she would like to fall in love again. Gender is an insignificant element in her search, she values qualities like authenticity and will-power more. Also she is not closed to the idea of an open couple or polyamory, but it’s still something that seems far away from her reality. ☁️

Relationships with the canon LIs:

Roy Aquino: her coworker. Roy is one of the most easy-going and friendly people at Devenmentiel’s, so they bonded quickly; but the fact that he is really popular among girls and “too good to be true” makes Célestine itchy and suspicious.

Amanda De Lavienne: her coworker. After a rough start, Célestine learned how soft and playful Amanda can be and Amanda found in Célestine someone worthy of trust and respect, someone worthy of being called “friend”. Possible LI. 

Devon Okere: her boss. Célestine admires his genius and determination and has a little crush on him, but the terrible experience with her previous boss makes any kind of conversation not work-related between them difficult. Possible LI.

Thomas Rheault: her coworker. Their exchanges are rather cordial, but Célestine doesn’t really know how to approach him and Thomas doesn’t seem interested in deepening this relationship at the moment. 

Jason Mendal: her boss’ main competitor. They met only twice and fought each time, but since then, just hearing his name triggers in Célestine a rage and a competitive spirit which she wasn’t aware of. Possible LI.

Relationships with other people:

Brune Núñez: her coworker and friend. Célestine was really impressed by her look and her bluntness and started to mimic her. At first Brune was a bit concerned, but once they confronted she found Célestine's attempts cute and flattering.

Elenda Ueno: her coworker and friend. Elenda’s cheerful and positive attitude makes tolerable even paperwork! Célestine loves spending time with her and they often go strolling and shopping together. 

Méline Page: Célestine's distant cousin and childhood friend. They lost touch in middle school and reconnected recently, but time didn't change anything. They look out for each other and share everything, in sadness and in joy.

☁️

Trivia:

She believes in astrology and checks her horoscope everyday;

She and Méline have a matching tattoo on their wrist;

When stressed, she bites her fingernails.

☁️☁️☁️

I hope you'll love her as much as I do! If you have questions or any suggestion, feel free to interact 🌻

[shadowjax]

Green Eyed

Cassandra Vole x M/C, Cassandra Vole x Reader

A03

Summary: Set in the summer between years 6/7, working a customer service job has you drained. Someone isn't a fan of all the attention you are receiving.

A/n: No I didn’t transfer my account to NE and continue to play on WB cuz mobile is very convenient. Don’t ask how I got the heritage outfit again and lost the free scholar robes. I also didn’t know you could look at outfits you don’t own sooooo yeah I’m having fun with that.

*Shares are appreciated*

1.5k words

Divider by: @saradika-graphics

You didn’t mind working at the Three Broomsticks; you’d always enjoyed the atmosphere as a patron. There was a sense of independence that came from earning your own money. Now that you were earning your galleons there was no longer a need to make a trip to Gringotts. Given the uneven exchange rates between currencies, you felt guilty asking your parents for money for school supplies or other expenses. Especially now that you are taking more advanced courses as well as growing out of your old clothes. There is something bittersweet about no longer fitting in your old uniform, when you first came to Hogwarts you were so short. 

While the interior decor made the inn feel cozy certain clientele weren’t the most favorable, 

Rowdy drunk adults or bothersome teens disrupted the peace, making your shift more unbearable at times. Your regulars were very kind and respectful, adding a positive touch to your shift. The least favorable was when you had to suck up to them, the sides of your face becoming sore from wearing a permanent smile. You were hoping not to run into too many classmates over the summer, but there has recently been an influx in the dining hall.  Specifically, girls from your year, many of them tried to make small talk which you were horrible at. Some of the more popular girls who had never batted an eye before were now complimenting your appearance. You weren’t sure where this attention towards you came from.  

Maybe it was the outfit you were wearing because at school you mainly wore a uniform. You wore a white long-sleeve button-up with cuffed sleeves tucked into black pants, and the first two buttons were undone. Over the shirt, you wore a brown buttoned vest with a black apron tied around your waist and a pair of black sneakers. You wore a singular glove on your right hand, covering your scarred skin.

You were fairly average-looking, though there were many others in your class who were gifted with better genetics. Being on the shorter side thanks to your genes, you weren’t the most athletic or smartest. Recently you started to slick your hair back with a couple of pieces hanging in front of your face. You preferred having longer hair and decided to style it differently once your bangs had become too long.  The dark veins creeping up the side of your neck to your jaw weren't the most attractive.

“Alright here is your food, anything else you need ladies.” You eyed the four girls at the table, wiping your hands over your apron. 

“Mind telling me when you get off work?” Amanda was her name, Hufflepuff, she had straight black hair tied in a ponytail, on the Quidditch team. She rested her head on her hand, leaning casually against the table.

It took a second for you to register her question. “I do apologize I am working a double today. If that’s all I’ll be going now.” You awkwardly laughed while scratching the back of your head. 

The rest of the shift was fairly average, with a few mail addresses written on napkins here or there which you would throw out immediately. After a while, you weren't in the mood for small talk and just wanted your extended shift to be over. While you were busy attending to several tables, you didn’t notice a certain blonde enter the inn. It wasn’t until you glanced over to her usual spot that you realized she had arrived. She sat on the second floor, always watching you work no matter how much she denied it. 

"You're early, I won't be off for a while." A genuine smile crossed your face for the first time, and your heart fluttered. You brought Cassandra a cup of iced black tea with lemon and a cup of fruit. She wore a long Victorian-styled velvet emerald dress with flowers embroidered around the bottom, long sleeves, and ruffles along the edges. She had clearly put in extra effort, with her hair styled in a French braid ponytail and her makeup carefully applied.

“I already got what I needed from Bewildering Blooms, it’s much too hot outside.” She made a gesture with her hand for you to lean down, took the napkin off her lap, and patted the sweat off your forehead. 

“I hope you don’t mind, I’ll probably fall asleep on the train later. All this socialization has been very draining.” The two of you were going to do some sightseeing in the city of London. You had saved enough galleons and were very excited to be spending time with Cassandra. 

"Watching you run around frazzled is quite entertaining. What did that Hufflepuff girl want?" She questioned, gently placing a piece of fruit in her mouth to avoid ruining her lipstick. 

Quickly answering, "She was asking me when my shift ends. Not entirely sure why."

“Hmph.” Cassandra turned, focusing her attention on the lively patrons on the floor below.

The last few hours of your shift were a bit of a blur, thankfully you didn’t have to break up a bar fight. You waited at the table for the current Gryffindor Prefect, Emily, a skilled duelist you had encountered many times. Unlike her friend, she only gave one-word sentences. Until her friend broke the silence.

“Would you like to go out with my friend over her who is too shy for her own good?” The question came from a voice you had never heard before, Emily’s friend was a new face.  

You paused for a moment, stunned by the bluntness. Emily was clearly embarrassed by her friend’s actions she apologized. “I...You seem very nice. Though I have to decline.” Wait is that why so many girls were seeking your attention with the small talk and the letters ohhhhhh.

Pulling you out of your thoughts, Emily’s friend commented. “Why not, it's not like you're seeing anyone.” Ok, you were ready to simply walk way. The comment set something off inside you. 

“Are these two bothering you?” Cassandra approached from behind, wrapping her arm around yours. “Madame Rosemetta says your shift is over.” 

“Ahh, thank you.” You turn towards the table, “Enjoy your evening.” You lead Cassandra to the second floor towards the room you were staying in. You quickly rinse yourself off and change into more comfortable clothes. A white button-up underneath a black sweatshirt tucked into a pair of black pants. 

“Thank you for stepping in.” 

Exiting the bathroom you find Cassandra seated on the edge of your bed. “I shouldn't have to. I have to admit you are a bit dense.” While your relationship wasn't a secret, neither of you had openly displayed affection in public.  

“Well, I think you’ve made quite the statement.” You commented, quickly glancing at her through the mirror while fixing your collar. 

“I don’t like seeing others throwing themselves at you.” She pursed her lips and crossed her arms.

“Jealous are we?” You teased, slowly walking towards where she sat.

“Hmph as if.” She expressed, quickly turning her head to the opposite side. 

Standing in front of her, you pushed up your sleeves, ran a hand through your hair, and then gently placed your scarred hand beneath her chin, lifting her face until her eyes met yours, “Well, this dense idiot all yours my dear.” Flustered, her breathing hitched.

She took your hand, hastily grabbing your bag before leaving the room.  Walking through the crowd of busy patrons, hand in hand, Cassandra scanned the room. Just before reaching the exit, she paused, making sure your classmates were watching, then pulled you in for a quick kiss before hastily leading you out of the inn. A smirk plastered her lips as she confidently strode to the train station.

The two of you bought your tickets and sat in a private compartment. The door was shut to block out extra noise, your belongings were placed on the shelf above, and the seats were very comfortable. The rhythmic sound of the train gliding along the tracks created a soothing white noise in the background. You laid down on the seat, using Cassandra’s lap as a headrest.

“You know my friends are going to hound us when we get back to school right?” You were staring into those beautiful green eyes.

“At least now you can work without being bothered by other students.” She gently traced the dark veins on the side of your face. 

“That explains the influx in attention towards me, I assumed they were just being nice. I’m pretty average and all.” 

“You’re not entirely average. But I do expect you to turn them down without freezing up.” 

“After your stunt, I’d say I won’t have to worry about that.” Your eyes grew heavy from the soothing sound of the train and the gentle sensation of her fingers tracing your scars. It didn’t take long for you to fall asleep while she read to keep herself busy. Occasionally she’d look down at your sleeping form and a soft smile appeared.

Pt.2 london tour anyone? I’m having way too much fun with the full mirror btw

[zahri-melitor]

Future State:

So this is a qualified opinion based on the fact I have only read the Bat-related titles and have not yet read the Bat book storylines subsequent to this, but my first impression of this is that you are just fine to skip anything in Future State that you don't want to read.

It does contain 'who is the Magistrate'. The Magistrate are a paramilitary force paid for by Mayor Nakano to hunt down 'masks' in Gotham (both capes and rogues). Their major members are called 'Peacekeepers'. If you literally just substitute the current cape-hunting paramilitary force of Peacemakers commanded by Amanda Waller in your mind, you've got the entire effect without needing to read any of it (Also Gotham is indulging in its neon futurism aesthetic, so think Batman: Gotham Knights the game, or just Bladerunner).

I only have time to read one title: Future State: Dark Detective. The A story in this title follows Bruce working undercover to find a way to reveal what's going on inside the Magistrate. The creative team is Mariko Tamaki, Dan Mora and Jordie Bellaire. One of the only stories in the entire set where I would confidently say this was still a solid yarn even out of context.

I'm interested in John Ridley's Fox Family Drama: read the A story of Future State: The Next Batman. Tam's had a relapse (because nobody can track whether or not Tam is supposed to be better or not), Luke's literally at a loose end because of plotting changes, you meet Jace, Tiffany has been aged up by the time jump to effectively be the age she was back pre-Flashpoint, Tanya is angry at the world because reasons (Tam) and Lucius is making bad decisions because ???.

What else do you think is a fun story? Future State: Catwoman is a train heist story with neon futurism aesthetics, which is busy indulging in re-education camp/concentration camp themes with more than a dash of Hunger Games references. Creative team is Ram V and Otto Schmidt (no prizes for guessing why it's a good story hey). Worth it just for Selina and Talia working at slight cross purposes but acknowledging the other has her own goals.

The E plot of Future State: The Next Batman (the Gotham City Sirens) has Ivy, Selina and slave android named Dee-Dee who has broken from her creator. This is fun for me personally because it is the rare concept where Ivy and Selina are bouncing off each other and Harley is nowhere in sight. The characterisation is at best fine, but the GCS vibes are there and fun.

The rare 'look I don't want to read this but it's well written' award: Future State: Harley Quinn. I deeply, deeply do not care about Harley, but if more of Harley's books were written like this, I think I would enjoy her far more as a character. So, recommendation for the 2021 run of Harley Quinn under Stephanie Phillips, I suppose (I am not planning on reading it).

The rest: look, the biggest issue with basically all of the Future State titles is due to being set in media res of an altered future, there's an awful lot of characters with changed personalities and no clear connections as to why they're acting OOC. And I'm a full believer in 'if you show me how the character got there, it's not OOC', but the whole concept of this is we don't get to see how the characters got there. So you're stuck going "why is Jefferson Davis currently a being of pure lightning, this isn't Jakeem Thunder". "has this writer read a single Stephanie Brown story not written by Bryan Q. Miller? (Vita Ayala I have been anticipating getting to your Wonder Woman stuff but wow you can't write Cass or Steph)". "I really wish this story where Dick is based in the bowels of an abandoned Arkham Asylum was leaning more into the Batman RIP/Reborn era storytelling around Dick and Arkham Asylum" and so on.

Characters don't fully track in their storylines between titles. Who's imprisoned when? Who are Two-Face and Croc working with? What hero titles are Cass, Steph, Barbara and Tim using? What costumes are people using? And so on and so forth.

You can really tell it's worked up from existing plots that got some surgery to rewrite them from the initial concept. Damian is Sir Not Appearing for the entire set of Bat titles, which makes sense on one level (given this is based out of scrapped 5G material) but makes absolutely no sense on another. Talia al Ghul is running around the background of at least two stories helping out the Bats, with no explanation given, but Damian can't be thrown into the art of group scenes because???

Like, read Mariko Tamaki, Ram V and maybe John Ridley because they can actually write solid stories and know (or are busy creating narratives for) the characters they're working with. Ridley's busy retconning a huge amount of existing Fox family stories but as it is he's setting up what will be their default for the ongoing future. Skip everything else unless you're feeling completionist (or interested in the Jason Todd-based alternate future title that spins out of this in Future State: Gotham).

[srgntjamesbuckybarnes]

Truth or Dare (5)

Summary: What started off as an innocent game of truth or dare between two noble born sisters, Y/N and Margaret “Peggy” Carter, quickly turns south when Y/N meets Steve Rogers and James “Bucky” Barnes. 10 years later Peggy is getting married reuniting the bunch, tensions rise as the sisters engage in truth or dare one more time before Peggy is married.

Rating: Mature

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Warnings: None

Word Count: 2.7k

A/N: Not Beta'd

Series Masterlist

Previous Chapter

Chapter 5

“Ouch!”

Y/N peeked up from the book in her lap. Peggy had been standing on a pedestal as women bustled around her. Her puffy sleeves had been comical next to her head. They were off-white and twice the size of her head, making the countess drown in the fabric.

“Apologies, Lady Carter,” one of the women rushed, pin in hand.

The sleeves need more volume,” Amanda Carter surveyed from beside Peggy. Wordlessly, the women shoved more pins in the sleeves to hold them up. Y/N locked eyes with Peggy’s pleading dark brown eyes through the mirror. She was relieved it was Peggy getting married. Y/N didn’t know if she could tolerate her mother’s opinions.

Gently shutting the book in her lap, Y/N turned in her chair to face her mother, “Perhaps the sleeves will take away from Peggy herself.”

Their mother frowned, never taking her eyes off the dress. “Nonsense, Y/N. Margaret is marrying a prince. The dress should be grand. Everyone’s eyes will be on her.” Peggy shrugged in the mirror, a silent thanks for trying. Amanda finally turned to Y/N, clasping her hands in front of her chest. “Speaking of princes, King George is meeting with King T’Chaka later today to discuss a peace treaty. I hear he is bringing his son Prince T’Challa along with him. You should join your sister and Steve at the theater and invite him to accompany you.”

Y/N’s jaw dropped, her hands nervously running across the book in her lap. “Mother, I doubt the prince of Wakanda is interested in me.”

Amanda arched her eyebrow with a hand on her hip. On her other hand, a single digit wagged in Y/N’s direction. “Then you make him interested in you.”

Y/N bit her bottom lip until it bled. Her mother had taken matters into her own hands going straight to King T’Chaka to invite T’Challa to the theater. Y/N wasn’t sure if she hoped he would accept or decline. The other night in Bucky’s room was still fresh in her mind. She hadn’t seen him since. They couldn’t court without an introduction. He didn’t seem to mind while he was flirting with her, but was that all it was, just flirting?

T’Challa was different. He was practical and preapproved by her parents. Y/N guessed that had something to do with the peace treaty. She felt dirty like she was lying to T’Challa. He was considerate and sure of himself, a true prince. She could find herself falling in love with the man if they had met under different circumstances. One day, Steve and T’Challa will be kings. What better way to ensure the peace treaty is honored in the future than to unite the families? They were mere pawns in a larger chess game.

“Lady Carter,” the darker-skinned prince extended his snowy gloved hand toward a cushioned wooden bench. Y/N sent him a polite smile, accepting the seat closest to the rail. The gallery was a small balcony in the theater with three rows of wooden benches. Y/N and Peggy had been seated in the front for everyone in the pit to marvel at their gowns. There was just enough room for the two of them to squeeze on the bench with the exaggerated skirts on their gowns.

Steve and T’Challa had taken a seat on the slightly elevated larger bench behind the women, a respectable position for men to be seen with unmarried women in public. Their view of the stage was poor but they weren’t there to see, they were there to be seen.

The bustling actors readying below could be seen from their vantage point and Y/N could have sworn she saw Bucky below. Something shiny reflected momentarily blinding her. She fluttered her eyes clearing the image of Bucky from her head. It had to have been someone carrying a prop. A hand on her arm drew her attention beside her.

“The prince seems nice,” Peggy said loud enough for just the two of them to hear.

Y/N’s lips pressed into a tight smile, “He is.” It wasn’t a lie. T’Challa had been a gentleman. Part of her felt that he had been too gentlemanly, too friendly to see her as a serious option for a wife. Y/N brushed it off. She was sure he had come to the same conclusion as her. This was strictly business. Even Steve and Peggy seemed to encourage the bond.

“I was informed that the king’s son is joining us. Have I been misinformed?” T’Challa questioned, raising a thick brow.

Y/N’s ears pricked at the mention of Bucky. No one told her he was coming. Why would they? She isn’t supposed to know him. But she does.

“He’ll be here. I believe he is backstage visiting an old friend.” Steve winked.

T’Challa chuckled, brushing his hand over his charcoal frock coat, “To old friends.”

Y/N flushed at the implication ignoring the rest of the men's chatter. He never denied the rumor of him being a rake instead, he promised he would ruin her. They weren’t courting but she couldn’t stop the words from leaving her lips, “Truth or dare?”

A devious smirk crossed Peggy’s lips as she stared at the audience in the pit below. Without being able to see the front of the stage, the play wouldn’t be as interesting. The next two hours promised boredom for Peggy. She’d rather be in the pit with everyone else enjoying the show rather than staring at the back of the actors’ heads. She craved excitement.

“Dare.”

Y/N had predicted that answer so without missing a beat, she replied, “I dare you to sneak backstage and steal the most interesting item.” It was perfect. Her sister’s determination would have her checking every inch backstage. Bucky’s visit would be ruined.

“Distract them,” Peggy mumbled before excusing herself to the bathroom.

Y/N waited until she could see the countess below before turning to the men. “Your Royal Highness,” Y/N began watching both men turn to face her, confusion written across their faces. “Sorry, I don’t know how to address each of you while you are in the same room.”

Steve narrowed his eyes suspiciously. T’Challa offered a playful smile on his full lips, “I suppose addressing you and your sister as Lady Carter can be confusing as well.” He pressed the palm of his hand over his heart. “Please call me T’Challa and I will call you Y/N?”

Y/N nodded, “T’Challa it is.”

Steve ran a hand along his chin, she already called him Steve. There was no need to differentiate but he brushed it off chalking it up to being her way to get on a first-name basis with the prince.

The trio made small talk as they awaited Peggy’s return. The conversation flowed easily, distracting the men from how much time had passed. Y/N glanced down at her dress. A dead giveaway to her status. Her mind wandered to the pit below along with the actors. Guilt began to eat away at her. Peggy could be recognized down there. Anything could happen. What would they think of the future queen stealing? How could she have let her envy put her sister at risk?

Suddenly the door to the balcony opened, a Cheshire cat grin on Peggy’s lips. A sigh escaped Y/N at the sight. She made it back in one piece and if her grin was anything to go by, she had completed her dare with ease. Peggy floated to her seat, her hands empty. Y/N raised an eyebrow, but Peggy just wiggled hers back. It wasn’t until Peggy was sure neither man was paying them any attention that she plucked a piece of lien from between her bosoms.

Y/N ran her fingers over the milky cloth now draped across her lap. “What’s so interesting about a cloth?” She twirled the cloth between her fingers.

Peggy’s eyes twinkled, “It’s not just any cloth. It’s the cravat of a nobleman.”

Realization crossed Y/N’s face, her eyes bulging. When she dared Peggy to steal something to ruin Bucky’s visit, she didn’t think she would swipe something of his. “Peggy,” she hissed. “How did you get this?”

The younger Carter rolled her eyes. “He’s sleeping with a pretty redhead down there.”

Gail? Y/N’s face paled as Steve’s voice cut through her thoughts. How could Bucky be sleeping with Steve’s ex? A married woman? Y/N unexpectedly rose from the bench, the white fabric bound tightly around her knuckles. Three sets of eyes stared at her, and she wondered just how many more were monitoring her from below. “I need a minute.”

T’Challa stood up, a hand resting against his stomach. “I will walk with you.”

Y/N shook her head. “No, that would not be appropriate. I feel a bit claustrophobic is all.”

“Y/N,” Peggy tilted her head. “I could walk you out.”

“I’ll be fine. I just need a minute alone,” Y/N announced, already halfway out the door.

The older Carter’s feet carried her down the hallway into an empty stairwell. Her back pressed against the stone wall as she took deep breaths. An incandescent glow emitted from a candle in the window above her head. Like a figment of her worst imagination, Bucky emerged at the bottom of the steps.

“Y/N?”

Her head snapped in his direction, pushing herself off the stone wall. “How could you?” she seethed. He raised his eyebrows as Y/N continued to rant. “How could you do that to Steve? To her husband?”

Bucky peeked over his shoulder making sure no one was coming before beginning to walk up the step, one step at a time. “What are you talking about?”

Staring down at the man from her nose, she responded, “Gail Richards.”

Before Y/N could blink, her back slammed against the wall. A gloved metal hand pressed against her mouth. “Don’t say that name,” he growled in her ear, his nostrils flaring. He could feel her tremble beneath his hands as he pulled back slightly. Her eyes welled with tears as his eyes darted between hers. The second he peeled his metal hand from her mouth, she shoved him, hard.

Caught off guard, the brunette stumbled back a few steps.

“You’re sleeping with her,” Y/N accused, pointing her finger at him.

Bucky scoffed, knocking her hand away. “I am not.”

Sucking her teeth, Y/N explained, “Peggy caught you with a redhead.”

Bucky arched his brow, “What’s Peggy doing snooping around?”

Y/N’s eyes dropped to his sweaty exposed neck. Her hands shot behind her back as she remembered she still had his cravat. Avoiding the question, she asked, “So you weren’t just sleeping with a redhead backstage?”

Bucky countered with a shrug, “Are you not on a double date with a prince?”

Y/N froze. “You’re here, it hardly counts as a double date. The numbers are uneven.”

“Right.” Bucky rolled his eyes, stepping forward. “Stop meddling Y/N. Making false accusations could get you hurt one day.”

Y/N scoffed, crossing her arms. The linen fabric was prominent against her dark dress.

“Where’d you get this?” Bucky asked, yanking her hand toward him to inspect the fabric. “You a peepin’ Tom?”

Y/N felt a warmth creep up her neck as his fingers carefully unraveled the cloth. “No, I-” She didn’t know what to say. She couldn’t tell him she had dared Peggy to go down there. He would think she was crazy. Unfortunately for her, he saw right through her.

Holding the cloth up between them, Bucky narrowed his eyes. “Is this what all of this,” he waved his free hand around dramatically, “is about? You’re jealous?”

Covering her face with her hands she sighed. She wanted to deny it but she was sure he would see right through her. “Steve implied you were doing more than visiting an old friend. Peggy and I have this stupid game going and I took advantage of it. I dared her to steal the most interesting object down there so she would search everywhere. I wanted her to ruin your time down there. She brought your cravat back and told me you were sleeping with a redhead. I’m sorry, I had no right to do that.”

“Natasha.”

Y/N peered up from behind her hands. “What?”

“The redhead, her name is Natasha.” A soft oh escaped her lips. A toothy grin spread across his face as he tied his cravat around his neck. “You were jealous,” he said in a sing-song voice. Her face scrunched up in embarrassment. He should be furious with her but instead, he was eating every second of this up. Y/N groaned. He would hold this over her forever. “You know, I’m actually a bit offended that Peggy thought my cravat was more interesting than me.” He paused, scanning her from head to toe. “I’m also disappointed you didn’t come down to see me in action for yourself.”

Y/N cleared her throat, wishing the foundation would swallow her whole. She didn’t need whatever dirty actions Bucky had been referring to, in her head. “What are you doing here?”

Bucky ran a hand through his long hair. “Steve asked me to join in a while back when it was a solo date. Didn’t know you and the prince were joining until this morning.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

He cocked his head as if it was obvious, “I kinda got the feeling people don’t want us talking, sweetheart. I can’t exactly walk up to you and start a conversation.”

Y/N wondered if anyone would ever give them a formal introduction or if secret meetings and stolen glances in public were all they would ever be. Y/N glanced down at her hands before squinting up at Bucky, “My mother invited T’Challa. I think she’s trying to aid your father’s alliance.”

Bucky hummed, running his tongue across his bottom lip. “T’Challa? You’re on a first-name basis already?”

Her eyes narrowed in the dim light as she replied, “We’re on a first-name basis, Bucky.”

A cocky grin graced his face, “And if I remember correctly, you want me to ruin you.” Y/N’s mouth gaped like a fish, searching for an answer. Bucky reached up with his flesh hand, twisting a loose strand of her hair framing her face. A distant expression crossed his face. “I wish there was a way to have you without ruining you.” Y/N frowned at his sudden change. His fingertips grazed her cheek as he released the strand of hair. His eyes hardened. “I’m gonna need to know more about this game of yours doll.”

The click of the door echoed down the hall causing the pair to jump apart. How long had they been gone?

"You go first,” Bucky commanded just above a whisper.

Y/N shook her head, her eyes pleading with Bucky. “I can’t go back without your cravat. Peggy will be suspicious if you walk in there with it and I don't.”

Bucky huffed, his fingers making quick work of loosening the knot around his neck. “Steve and T’Challa will be suspicious if you walk in with one and I don’t.” When the knot was loose, he slipped the fabric into Y/N’s awaiting palm. The patter of footsteps trailed along the floor growing louder with each passing second like the countdown on a bomb. They were seconds away from their lives blowing up before their eyes. Tucking the linen between her breasts, Y/N stepped into the hall. She gasped, nearly running into Peggy.

“Y/N, there you are!” Peggy’s fingers wrapped around Y/N’s biceps. “I was worried sick. Are you alright?”

Winding her arm with Peggy’s, she nodded. “I’m fine. Let’s head back before the play starts.”

Bucky waited with his back against the wall until the darkness devoured their shadows. Only when he heard the thud of the door did he leap off the wall following their footsteps. He waited a moment outside the gallery, before stepping onto the balcony.

“Bucky,” Steve greeted, waving him over. “You made it just in time.”

The brunette grunted in acknowledgment, opting for the third row. The row furthest from the crowd and temptation. Bucky couldn’t spend two hours sitting directly behind Y/N ignoring her. The best option for everyone was the last row. Slightly more elevated than the rest, with a clear view of Y/N and T’Challa. If he didn’t have a good view of the play, at least he was able to watch over her; a devil she had no idea was perched on her shoulder.

Next Chapter

Taglist:

@supraveng @kandis-mom @xycnsstuff @mcu21lover19

[sunshine-and-moonshine]

Slashers with Handholding

Requested: No

Warnings: Some light angst but mostly just tooth rotting fluff

A/N: Nada

Dollface

Dollface loves to hold hands! She’ll constantly grab yours and hold it in hers, practically dragging you along wherever she goes. When she’s not dragging you though, she just swings your entwined hands between yourselves, quietly humming to herself. That’s what she likes best.

Vincent Sinclair

Vincent holds your hand a lot, it’s part of the small quiet affections he gives you everyday in place of bold actions or sweet words. He’ll occasionally just slip his hand into your when he thinks you’re not paying attention. And should you actually notice, he’ll bring your intertwined hands up to press the back of your palm to the cool lips of his mask in a chaste kiss.

Rufus Firefly

Rufus won’t go out of his way to hold your hand but also won’t deny you if you initiate the handholding. His grip is loose and gentle, holding your hand like it’s made of fragile glass. Occasionally, if he’s feeling particularly outgoing, he’ll give your hand the occasional soft squeeze to express his feelings.

Thomas Brown Hewitt

Thomas isn’t the biggest fan of handholding, he much prefers wrapping you up in his big arms, but he’ll indulge you if that’s more your thing. He’ll be so gentle, running his thumb over your knuckles, internally memorizing every scar and freckle and whatever other little abnormalities your hands may hold.

Amanda Young

Amanda isn’t much for physical affection in general, jumpy and untrusting of any signs of care. She’s not used to it at all. That being said, she will try to let you hold her hand, if only because she fears that depriving you of any physical touch that isn’t purely sexual will drive you away from her. Her touch is hesitant, her hands twitching in yours like she’s fighting not to rip herself away, which is pretty likely. To be this close to her, you have to be someone really important to her. Someone who means the world to her, which is pretty had to achieve.

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

🌈 Queer Books Coming Out in August 2024 🌈

🌈 Good afternoon, my bookish bats! Here are a FEW of the stunning, diverse queer books you can add to your TBR before the year is over. Happy reading!

❓What was the last queer book you read?

[ Release dates may have changed. ]

❤️ Failure to Comply - Sarah Cavar 🧡 I Spit On Your Celluloid - Heidi Honeycutt 💛 You're Embarrassing Yourself - Desiree Akhavan 💚 Death of the Hero - Briona Johnson 💙 Between Dragons and Their Wrath - Devin Madson 💜 The Crimson Crown - Heather Walter ❤️ Sacrificial Animals - Kailee Pedersen 🧡 Oath of Fire - K. Arsenault Rivera 💛 The Palace of Eros - Caro De Robertis 💙 This Ravenous Fate - Hayley Dennings 💜 Mistress of Lies - K.M. Enright 🌈 Wolf Bite - T.J. Nichols

❤️ In the Valley, A Shadow - Samantha Tano 🧡 Follow My Lead - Adrian J. Smith 💛 The Last Woman I Kissed - Venetia Di Pierro 💚 Full Shift - Jennifer Dugan & Kristen Seaton 💙 Hers for the Weekend - Helena Greer 💜 Come Out, Come Out - Natalie C. Parker ❤️ Rules for Ghosting - Shelly Jay Shore 🧡 How to Leave the House - Nathan Newman 💛 Plot Twist - Carmen Sereno 💙 On the Far Side of a Crescendo - Kalyn Hazel 💜 Tiny Oblivions and Mutual Self Destructions - Maxwell I. Gold 🌈 Daylan and the River of Secrets - Edd Tello

❤️ The Italy Letters - Vi Khi Nao 🧡 The Gender Binary Is a Big Lie - Lee Wind 💚 The House Where Death Lives - Alex Brown 💙 Ash's Cabin - Jen Wang 💜 The Avian Hourglass - Lindsey Drager ❤️ The Heart Wants - Krystina Rivers 🧡 A Grand Love - Janna Barkin 💛 You Can't Go Home Again - Jeanette Bears 💜 Libertad - Bessie Flores Zaldivar 🌈 Her Golden Coast - Anat Deracine

❤️ Mighty Millie Novak - Elizabeth Holden 💛 Rise and Divine - Lana Harper 💚 Dying for You - L Flowers 💙 I'll Have What He's Having - Adib Khorram 💜 Changing Her Tune - Amanda Kabak ❤️ Monogamy? In this Economy? - Laura Boyle 🧡 The Rainbow Age of Television - Sayna Maci Warner 💛 Medusa of the Roses - Navid Sinaki 💙 Confounding Oaths - Alexis Hall 💜 Idol Lives - K.T. Salvo 🌈 Brother's Keeper - Quinn Cameron

❤️ Key Lime Sky - Al Hess 🧡 Crushing It - Erin Becker 💛 The Husky and His White Cat Shizun - Rou Bao Bu Chi Rou 💚 Not for the Faint of Heart - Lex Croucher 💙 Tasting Temptation - JJ Arias 💜 Ami - S. Jae-Jones ❤️ You're the Problem, It's You - Emma R. Alban 🧡 Cubs & Campfires - Dylan Drakes 💛 The Dark We Know - Wen-yi Lee 💙 Practical Rules for Cursed Witches - Kayla Cottingham 💜 Riyati Rebirth - Kalani Shimizu 🌈 The Brujos of Borderland High - Gume Laurel III

❤️ A Bánh Mì for Two - Trinity Nguyen 🧡 Dance of the Starlit Sea - Kiana Krystle 💛 Scattered Snows, to the North - Carl Phillips 💚 Beyond a World Apart - Caitlin Myers 💙 Don't Let It Break Your Heart - Maggie Horne 💜 Nothing Heals Me Like You Do - Harper Bliss ❤️ How It All Ends - Emma Hunsinger 🧡 How Do I Sexy? - Mx. Nillin Lore 💛 The Palace of Eros - Caro De Robertis 💙 Prince of the Palisades - Julian Winters 💜 Better Left Buried - Mary E. Roach 🌈 Back to Back - Jo Fletcher

❤️ DITCHLAPSE / [REALLY AFRAID] - Tommy Wyatt 🧡 The Love Archives: Bonus Scenes & Excerpts for Palestine - Various 💛 Guardian: Zhen Hun - Ying Priest 💚 The Sunforge - Sascha Stronach 💙 Queering Reproductive Justice - Candace Bond-Theriault 💜 Gender Explained - Diane Ehrensaft & Michelle Jurkiewicz ❤️ The Unlikely Pair - Jax Calder 🧡 In Universes - Emet North 💛 We Love the Nightlife - Rachel Koller Croft 💙 Lessons from Cruising - Martin Goodman 💜 Wild Ginger in the Rhubarb - Eule Grey 🌈 Not My Circus - Delicia Niami

❤️ Asunder - Kerstin Hall 🧡 The Phoenix Keeper - S.A. MacLean 💛 Encounters with James Baldwin - Various 💚 Verity's Game - Jennifer Giacalone 💙 Hunt Me! I Crave the Chase - Fae Quin 💜 The Audacity Omnibus - Carmen Loup ❤️ Haunted to Death - Frank Anthony Polito 🧡 Blood Orange - Paige Grunewald 💛 The Bad Things We Did - Chris Archeske 💙 Dark Restraint - Katee Robert 💜 Worth the Wait - Kenna White 🌈 The Maid and the Crocodile - Jordan Ifueko

❤️ Loving Corrections - Adrienne Maree Brown 🧡 The Last Witch in Edinburgh - Marielle Thompson 💛 The Duchess of Kokora - Nikhil Prabala 💚 The Scales of Seduction - Rien Gray 💙 Survival Is a Promise - Alexis Pauline Gumbs 💜 Loka - S.B. Divya ❤️ The Every Body Book of Consent - Rachel E Simon 🧡 Southern Lights - Liz Arncliffe 💛 Then Things Went Dark - Bea Fitzgerald 💙 Death at Morning House - Maureen Johnson 💜 The Last Doorbell - William Parker 🌈 The Pairing - Casey McQuiston

[pinkacademic]

A History and Legacy of Legally Blonde

(It's done, I can die happy)

An Introduction

For over twenty years, Legally Blonde has been the King- or rather, Queen- of the chick-flick/rom-com world, having reigned supreme over the “girly movies” kingdom ever sinced it first graced cinema screens in 2001. Reese Witherspoon’s wonderful portrayal of sorority president-turned attorney Elle Woods created a veritable zeitgeist of Pink and Powerful. Legally Blonde has become the feminist film that inspires future law students and teenage sleepover-havers alike.

While it wasn’t always intended to be the cinematic masterpiece that it became, and, in fact, started in a way that likely wouldn’t have been quite such the feminist classic, it grew and developed during production; It went from something that could cause questions to be asked as to whether Legally Blonde as we know it should be held on a feminist pedestal, to a heartfelt vision that inspired so many of its regular re-watchers for two decades and more.

Herein is an exploration of the book that inspired the film, how the characters and the story developed as the film was made, and how Reese Witherspoon became so heavily involved- and influential- in the film’s success. Moreover, how the Harvard Class of 2004 encouraged so many young women into following the mantra of “what would Elle Woods do?”

What is the legacy of Legally Blonde? How did it end up with so much staying power? Here is the story of Elle Woods and how she became a cultural icon, and how she created a generation.

A History

The Book

Legally Blonde started its life as the book of the same name, a novelisation of author Amanda Brown’s experiences at Stanford University. The plot is largely unchanged- a pretty sorority girls goes to law school in pursuit of love- but there are swathes of differences in how the novel plays out, from plot details to characterisation of the main character. While the novel is hard to track down, an article by Cracked outlines the major differences between the book and the movie. In “Movie Differences: Elle Woods In The ‘Legally Blonde’ Book Is A Monster,” Amanda Manning opines that “[i]t’s hard to imagine a more perfect person than Elle Woods” in reference to the film character, but that “[l]iterary Elle Woods is manipulative, narcissistic, lazy, entitled, and excruciatingly judgmental.”

In terms of plot changes, Elle doesn’t seem to have the same studious drive, as Manning describes how “Movie Elle is humiliated” by her lack of understanding of the new, more “rigorous” academic world she now finds herself whereas “Book Elle didn't even buy the books and intentionally blew off the reading.”

While what Manning presents is truly a scathing review, it also proves the stark contrast between the Elle that is and the version that once was.

The Film

Just as with the book, early development of the film took the story on a journey that was crucial in it’s becoming something almost separate entirely from the book. Unlikely director Robert Luketic was an edgy film school major, who changed his tone was a ten-minute musical about an Italian woman, Titsiana Booberini who “has a hairy upper lip and (…) works in a supermarket where she battles the prettier girls for the affections of the handsome assistant manager,” according to an article on the Wayback Machine on the Internet Archive, originally from the Denver Center of Performing Arts.

MGM, the company that produced Legally Blonde, were apparently under the impression that the film “was going to be much more wet T-shirts and boobs than it actually turned out to be,” according to Luketic. The name Titsiana Booberini from Luketic’s previous work truly implies that MGM’s assumptions were correct. Early versions of the script were raunchier and edgier and were comparable to American Pie. Kirsten Smith, who along with Karen McCullah, wrote the film has stated "It transformed from nonstop zingers that were very adult in nature to this universal story of overcoming adversity by being oneself,” (Smith).

In fact, the plot originally did not include Paulette or Emmett, and ended with Elle entering a relationship with a professor, likely Callaghan.

While we can never know for certain, I find it highly likely that the original version of Legally Blonde would have become a rather forgettable summer romp in the typical “wet T-shirts and boobs” category, and we can thank God it changed.

Or rather, we can thank Luketic, Smith, and McCullah, and also Reese Witherspoon herself. It was Smith and McCullah who reworked the script, it was Luketic who fought for Reese, and it was Reese who knew her character well enough to make her who she is.

The writing dynamic duo Kirsten Smith and Karen McCullah were great friends before, having written 10 Things I Hate About You. They cite inspiration from Clueless, according to Blue Bear Magazine. Clearly, they knew what they were doing in the world of fun, fresh, and funky feminist films, and creating iconic rom-coms that put twists on the classics. The duo went on to contribute to Ella Enchanted, She’s the Man, and other classics that get referenced at every sleepover since they came out.

Director Robert Luketic, though he started his film education wanting to create something “edgy,” breaking the film school mold with Titsiana Booberini set the tone for him to emerging into a career in rom-coms such as The Ugly Truth, staring Katherine Heigl and Gerrard Butler, and Killers, starring Katherine Heigl again, this time with Ashton Kutcher, as well as episodes of Jane the Virgin, among other projects. While I am not overly familiar with these films, it is clear that Luketic has an understanding for a genre often marketed in Elle Woods-approved pink.

A film of this nature was clearly in good hands, and it is this team that truly made the masterpiece we all know and love today.

The trio have worked together also on the previously mentioned The Ugly Truth, which is testament to their teamwork.

But truly one of the biggest contributions to the project was Elle herself, as Reese Witherspoon is truly what made the film and th character both so iconic.

Reese Witherspoon

Luketic actually had to fight for Reese, as, given her last movie had been Election, she was believed by bosses at MGM to be similar to that character. Witherspoon told The Hollywood Reporter that MGM though she was “a shrew,” due to having been typecast in their eyes. However, Luketic remained convinced that Witherspoon was the right choice for the role, despite suggestions including Britney Spears, Katherine Heigl, and Alicia Silverstone among others.

The Hollywood Reporter article, again found on the Wayback Machine, titled “How Reese Witherspoon Took Charge of Her Career and Changed Hollywood,” relays Witherspoon’s involvement in Hollywood, and it is noted that for Legally Blonde that: “[s]he endured multiple rounds of auditions for Legally Blonde, at one point meeting with executives in character (complete with a Southern California accent) to show that she could ace the part.”

It is baffling to think that she had to fight for it. But as Elizabeth Gabler, head of Fox in 2000 noted, Witherspoon “doesn’t give up,” and if that isn’t the attitude of an Elle Woods, then what is?

Witherspoon said of Elle that: “(…)your first instincts is to discount women who put a lot of effort into their looks as maybe not serious about their job or maybe not serious about their relationships ... I think everyone naturally jumps to those conclusions(…)”

To me, there is a clear understanding of where Elle stands in the world, and how she wants to prove that she’s passionate about anything she sets her mind to. What strikes me especially is her telling The Hollywood Reporter in 2001 that, even though the word “fluffy” was used, Witherspoon stated “[she] take[s] it as seriously as [she] would any other movie.” Moreover, she did her research, having dinner with sorority girls in what she referred to as “an anthropological study.”

Reese Witherspoon became Elle Woods because she understood her internally. She immersed herself in the world that Elle is from and learned the differencs between the sorority girls and herself- the good, the bad, and the blonde of it all.

The Legacy

The team behind Legally Blonde truly created a masterpiece- a piece of art that has been inspiring a legion of creative and intellectual minds, and has been constantly doing so since 2001. In 2017, Reese Witherspoon told Wall Street Journal Magazine that “[at]t least once a week [she has] a woman come up to [her] and say ‘I went to law school because of Elle Woods.’”

Witherspoon was also handed a copy of entertainment reporter Lucy Ford’s college dissertation, that, in true Elle fashion, Ford presented to her in a pink ribbon. Elle’s own resumé being printed on pink paper and scented helps her stand out and be remembered, and Elle is a great believer in presentation and details, and it is an excellent lesson to take away from the movie. I’ll confess to personally making my CV pink too, because if it’s Elle-approved, it’s me-approved too.

There are a myriad of ways that Elle Woods has been inspirational to its steams of viewers. The article How Legally Blonde Influenced a Generation of Women Lawers on abajournal.com relays the range of the Elle Effect, noting both a friend of writer Haley Moss’ having bought a chihuahua because of Elle’s beloved Bruiser and the “plethora” of young women on social media. Some of said women were cited to have ‘thought the LSATs were possible’ thanks to Elle, and some of them were ‘just seeking fashion advice.”

So many voices have been added to the conversation about what a woman can be, having been inspired by Elle, as family law attorney Layla Summers told Spectrum News “When I watch the movie now I feel like I'm part of a great club of powerful professional women, like a sorority.”

This is a movie of joining women together from any walk of life and lifting them up.

The Lawyers

People.com also shares the legacy of Legally Blonde in the article lengthily titled “'Legally Blonde' Is 'Still' Inspiring People to Go to Law School – Plus, How Reese Witherspoon is Celebrating the Film's 15th Anniversary.”

It tells the stories of women who went to law school due to Elle and who connected to the character. Beginning with Shalyn Smith, the sorority president says she felt people would underestimate her ambitions for a career in law, “despite the fact that she had a 4.0.”

The article also features a series of tweets to a similar affect such as @kenzamae20 who tweeted at Reese Witherspoon directly saying “If Elle Woods can do law school I think I can too,” and @Gab_Tamburri who tweeted “I relate to Elle Woods in so many ways and honestly want to be like her when I get to law school.”

The Creators

The women of the legal profession have taken to the internet in droves under a pink flag waved by Reese Witherspoon herself too, as many other articles address. People.com spoke to Kathleen Martinez relays how in previous jobs sh was told that she should “dress more ‘consertavely’” and to ‘make [her male bosses] coffee,’” but npw she’s the head of her own immigration law team. She’s the head of a team of largely immigrants who are also mostly pink-loving women too. The article also points out that she held an “over-the-top Legally Blonde themed party” for everyone at her firm, so Elle’s influence and Legally Blonde’s Legacy are blatant and cannot be overstated.

In fact, the legacy is continuing, as Martinez has an impressive internet presence, with viral TikToks with 4.5 million views, and 1 million followers.

Mirror.co.uk also tells the story of Lowri Rose-Williams who spoke on how she feels ‘people assume she’s “an airhead” before they find out she’s a law student. She also relays that her experiences on OnlyFans contribute to the points of view that surround her as “many assume girls who use the app are ‘brainless.’”

Rose-Williams also expresss that “when people actually get to know [her] they change their mind,” which to me is certainly evocative of Elle.

A creator that I am a big fan of is Christina Stratton, who, in an article by Business Insider stated "I think back to the first day of college, and I would have never been bold enough to post an outfit of the day (…) I would have been too nervous about what all of my college friends would think.”

And yet now, she has a follower count in the hundreds of thousands, and is dubbed another “real life Elle Woods,” and while the article focuses on how she makes money from her brand deals, it is from her evocation of Elle Woods that her numbers have been garnered. Stratton wears almost exclusively pink in her videos, has a perfectly Bruiser-like tiny poodle, and has an Elle-tastic perky attitude that shows that she lives like Elle.

There is something about the unapologetically authentic aura of Elle Woods, from her optimism to her feminism, to her pinkness, that just appeals to people in so many ways. Elle Woods is who she is and becomes an even stronger version of herself, never changing for anyone. That’s who everyone who feels connected to her wants to be. Legally Blonde’s legacy is that of women who feel like they can do anything they want to, and do it in a heel. It evokes Dolly Parton’s famous line of “go big or go home, either way do it in a red pair of shoes,” but here they’re hot pink- but equally designed for stomping.

My Girlies

I reached out to my followers too to see what mymost supportive queens had to say, and it was plenty. naranjahtikal said: “I want to go to law school because of Elle! I also want to own a future textile company. I love the internal and external balance that Elle portrays as a woman.”

princessaninhas also responded, saying:

“I always wanted to be a nurse but people always told me that I didn't have the profile for that, they judged me by my way of being and dressing, they said I wasn't smart enough, there was a time when I was the only one who got all the answers right on a test (because I studied a lot) and the teacher said I was "lucky".Elle Woods taught me that we shouldn't care what others think, we should be ourselves and we shouldn't change our way of being to be what others want💕”

It is clear that Elle’s influence and the legacy of Legally Blonde are far-reaching and widespread. Legally Blonde inspires and Elle Woods represents having it all. You can be girly and twirly and kickass all at one, from law school to textiles, “we shouldn’t care what others think,” and we have to do things we want to do for ourselves.

A Conclusion

So, ultimately, what would Elle Woods do? I think the answer is that she would overcome a past that caused her to be overlooked and do what no one expected her to, creating a longlasting legacy for years to come.

Just as the story of Elle Woods is one of being overlooked for being too blonde for law school, only to set her eyes on the White House in Legally Blonde 2, the story of Legally Blonde is that of a movie that overcame murky origins and fought to become a feminist classic and went on to be the talk of the town in it’s twenty-second year since it’s release.

Thank you to Robert Luketic, Karen McCullah Lutz, Kristen Smith, and Reese Witherspoon among everyone else behind this most magical of films, and may we continue as a community of pink-loving, feminine feminists to keep the momentum going for those who came after us, becase that really is what Elle Woods would do.

[theflowerofhumanity]

Written in the Stars

“Miss Grayson?”

Amanda felt a small hand tugging at her skirt. Tearing her gaze away from the very animated tour guide who held the rapt attention of the rest of her third-grade class, she looked down to see a mess of blonde curls and a pair of huge, pleading brown eyes. She was nearly as interested to hear what the guide had to say as the children, but she smiled down at him and said, “Yes, Micah?”

The child hissed “Igottagotothebathroom” through semi-clenched teeth without pausing between words. Amanda almost laughed, not at the antsy little boy but at the urgent and earnest way he delivered the information. “All right, buddy. We’ll find one. Hold on for a just few more seconds.”

She didn’t want to interrupt their tour or call Micah out in front of his classmates by announcing his needs to everyone else. Besides, there were only so many places for a group of twenty nine-year-olds to get lost in the heart of the government district of downtown San Francisco. They were all pretty good kids, and they were listening very attentively despite the somewhat dry subject matter. In the classroom, Amanda sometimes struggled to engage them about such riveting subjects as the Charter of 2161, but field trips imbued almost anything with some magic. So she took Micah’s hand, saying in a conspiratorial whisper, “Come on. I kind of have to go, too,” which made him grin just like she’d hoped it would.

The Federation Council building happened to be the one nearest to them. After just a moment of hesitation and second-guessing herself, Amanda marched inside, Micah in hand, with more confidence than she felt. Fortunately, the lobby was bright, airy, and somewhat empty. When she inquired at the reception desk, a polite middle-aged woman pointed them in the right direction with no judgment. She felt silly to have worried. Weren’t they Federation citizens? Why shouldn’t they be able to pop in here for a bathroom break?

As they washed their hands in the bathroom, Amanda noticed that her student’s reflection looked suddenly glum. “Why the long face?” she asked. Micah shrugged.

“Aren’t you having fun?” 

Another shrug. “Yeah, I guess so.”

“Hey...you were so excited to come!” Amanda crouched down so she could look him in the eye at his own level. Like approximately half of her students both past and present, Micah was convinced that he would not only work in outer space when he grew up but that he’d someday attend Starfleet Academy and subsequently captain a starship. “What’s wrong?”

The boy gave a furtive glance around the empty bathroom, chewing his bottom lip. Then he lowered his voice to a whisper. “It’s just...we haven’t even seen any aliens here,” he said. “No Andorians...nobody!”

Fighting the urge to laugh again, she nodded. A smile spread slowly over her face. “No...but the day isn’t even half over yet! Don’t give up hope that easily, starman.”

Micah looked skeptical, but he considered her words and then nodded too. “Okay.”

“Okay,” she agreed. “Now let’s go find everybody else...before they leave us behind!” He was almost out the door before she could even stand up straight, and she finally gave herself permission to laugh softly. Moments like that made teaching worth it. She crossed her fingers in hopes that Micah’s wish for an alien sighting would come true.

Maybe that innocent superstition worked too well. As she emerged into the sunny lobby, she heard Micah exclaim: “Miss Grayson, Miss Grayson, you were right!” He was nearly bouncing up and down in excitement. She followed his gaze to a group of three tall, dark-haired men in long robes standing several yards away, and her eyes widened. There were his aliens, sure enough, but they weren’t Andorians—and she didn’t think they would be very amenable to being interrupted by an exuberant human child.

Before she could say so, however, or even reach for his hand again, Micah dashed eagerly in their direction. “Micah, no!” she breathed. The color drained from her face. Seeing no other solution, she took off after him.

Micah had made a beeline for the man standing somewhat apart from his companions but stopped short of running headlong into him. Intimidation had won out over his curiosity at the last second. He was just a little boy, after all. But Amanda, being considerably taller, was less lucky. Even as she realized that Micah had stopped and tried to do likewise, her momentum carried her farther—right into the robed figure in front of them.

Amanda’s cheeks flamed bright red with embarrassment, and she stumbled back. “I am so sorry,” she said in a rush. When she lifted her bright blue eyes to his face, her words died on her lips. “I was just...”

Of course she’d seen Vulcans before, though mostly in passing or on film, and like many girls, she found their exotic features rather attractive. This man was at least ten or fifteen years younger than any picture she’d ever seen, much less any she had encountered in person. He was also cute. Well, maybe cute wasn’t the right word, especially since she’d just tripped right into him, which was probably much more offensive to Vulcan sensibilities than a human child doing so. If so, well, it was too bad that she wasn’t a nine-year-old boy, and she refused to be intimidated. So she straightened up to her full five-foot-four, lifted her chin, and gave the handsome young Vulcan her most dazzling smile.

“I apologize. My student’s never met an outworlder, and he got pretty excited. Say hello, Micah.”

“H-hi,” Micah squeaked from behind her.

@multirptrash