#American Blonde Ale

[thebeermetalshowpodcast]

Beer Review: State of Brewing Ryder No. 8 Blonde Ale

Brewery: State of Brewing (WI, USA)Beer: Ryder No. 8Style: Blonde AleABV: 4.5%Character: Light & RefreshingRatings: BeerAdvocate: 3.4 | Untappd: 3.4/5Metal Connection: GORATORY – 8 Seconds of Fury Continue reading Untitled

[flintsdragon]

✨Everyday it’s a-getting closer ✨

I just spent the better part of the past two days working on this edit of my favorite 20th cen movies I saw this year, and I actually enjoyed every second of it (mostly because the movies and the song rules but the idea of getting better at editing is really exciting to me!)

FILMS FEATURED:

An American in Paris (1951, dir. Vicente Minnelli)

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953, dir. Howard Hawks)

A New Leaf (1971, dir. Elaine May)

…And Justice For All (1979, dir. Norman Jewison)

All That Jazz (1979, dir. Bob Fosse)

The Sting (1973, dir. George Roy Hill)

After Hours (1985, dir. Martin Scorsese)

An American Werewolf in London (1981, dir. John Landis)

[fairuzfan]

The thing with news sources and deciding what's trustworthy and what's not is that when you see criticism of Aljazeera (which to be clear is not a great news source about anything other than Palestine) is that they completely neglect to mention that each regional section of Al-Jazeera has different people in charge of it, different contributors, different sources.

By all means, analyze your sources and understand what information you're getting but to say outright that ALL of what AlJazeera reports EVER is wrong is inherently meant to discredit Palestinian journalists in a way that no other journalist who is not Palestinian and NOT directly experiencing the war in Gaza has been discredited. Surprisingly (not really but), a lot of Palestinians in Gaza are employed by AlJazeera because it's difficult for them to find employment elsewhere.

And again, I do not love AlJazeera. I think they do plenty of faulty journalism and reporting and I actively avoid them for most news sources. But RIGHT NOW with everything going on in Gaza, they're probably one of the most trustworthy ones because of their first hand accounts and willingness to publish Palestinian voices, which many, MANY news stations refuse to do. I especially encourage the Arabic version of AlJazeera!

Like Haartz has like... 4 Palestinians on their editorial team max, and they have EVEN LESS people on the ground in Gaza whereas we have dozens of reporters from Gaza on Al-Jazeera, many of which have died. The way to fact check your news is you find how many times they link factual evidence (like videos of experiences, primary accounts, primary quotes) and compare it with circumstance of publishing.

Here are some ways to fact check and questions to ask, even when looking at Al Jazeera:

Is this a first hand account? If not, does it name a person who experienced this first hand?

If they cite/name a person who experienced it first hand, are they a trustworthy person? What are their ties to the situation? Why would they report this, have they reported situations like this in the past?

What would the person reporting gain from reporting this? A Palestinian with an Instagram post about their life in Gaza has much less to gain than an Israeli soldier publishing their experience in Gaza, for example.

In the first hand account, are there actions or evidence that is corroborated? IE: There was a video of an Israeli soldier abducting a blonde Palestinian, and there was a Human Rights Org that reported child abductions from evidence gather by an on the ground reporter. There is less of a chance that this is false, therefore.

If you don't see other news sources reporting this (ie, you don't see CNN/NYT/BBC/Fox/any other western-led media outlet) then ask: Why would they not report it? Does that mean it's false? Maybe not. Many Euro-american sources spend MONTHS before they talk about an issue (think: Washington post article "questioning" the evidence of Hamas in Al-Shifaa hospital more than a month after the raid happened)

Defining "Trustworthy":

What is their history on reporting events? Are they someone who is well known in whatever community they represent?

Think: Ghassan Abu-Sitta, a world renowned doctor. When he reports something with his name attached, he is putting his entire reputation on the line. Therefore, it is more likely he is telling the truth.

Are they someone who has any real, structural power over the situation? Maha Hussaini, for example, cannot change her circumstances because a ceasefire relies on other people separate from her, a journalist. Therefore, she has less of a reason to lie about things happening to her.

For the news source: what are their ties to the situation? CNN, for example, has stated they have their content reviewed by the IDF. Wael Al-Dahdouh, before he was evacuated, was providing first hand accounts of situation, meaning its difficult for him to fake anything or misrepresent.

What else has this person/news source reported? What are their political leanings — not just left/right, but what are their general stances on a variety of issues?

How many people who are part of the community impacted are part of reporting on this (IE: How many Palestinian POVs are shared, how many Israeli POVs are shared, what are the POVs of the people shared in general?).

Can someone I personally trust vouch for this person? If not, can I ask someone I trust to look over this person/agency and tell me their opinion?

There's for sure more I'm forgetting but these are some ways I personally check my facts and information as a quick rundown. And I see this issue of not knowing how to fact check happen ALL OVER the place, on both sides. So I really, highly encourage everyone to engage with sources more honestly!

You'll make mistakes, everyone does! I do as well! But try to be vigilant about these things so we can ensure that we're spreading accurate information and try to correct information when possible! There's no 100% unbiased source so I encourage you to compare/contrast information and your understandings of the world to fully comprehend the situation!

Please use these questions when checking ANY news source, even Al-Jazeera!

[theflashjaygarrick]

So you've heard about the DC Absolute Universe and you're wondering what it is all about.

While details about Absolute DC is still coming out, I decided it might be useful to make a breakdown of what we know so far (mostly from SDCC).

DC Absolute Universe Breakdown:

The Absolute universe is a new alternate universe influenced by Darkseid energy. It is a 'darker' universe where all the heroes have lost something key to their Earth 0 selves which leaves them as underdogs. While separate to the main universe it will link in through the events of the All In initiative. There doesn't seem to be many superhero teams yet, but a lot of iconic heroes have had their own solo series' announced:

Absolute Batman (By Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta):

The series brave enough to ask...what if Batman was an absolute unit. This is a Batman with no money and no status as the Prince of Gotham. Instead he is a construction worker and city engineer who has turned himself and his costume into an absolute weapon. He has an adorable French Bulldog and is also apparently blonde.

This Bruce Wayne never had a butler but there still is an Alfred in the Absolute Universe: Alfred "Penny", the grizzled and tired MI-6 spy. They seemingly meet for the first time when Bruce has already began his caped crusade against crime (and the series' confirmed big bad Black Mask)

Bonus: The Jim Lee variant cover gives us a better look at his costume's armoured texture and one of his weapons. He's seemingly more of a heavy hitter than the Batman we know.

Absolute Wonder Woman (By Kelley Thompson and Hayden Sherman):

This Wonder Woman was raised not in Paradise Island but rather in The Underworld. She has no sisters and no quest for peace. Instead she is the last of the Amazons who becomes a warrior and a witch, and eventually the Absolute Universe's first superhero. She is more heavily armed, carries a massive sword, and flies around on a skeletal pegasus made of iron.

Unlike her Earth counterpart who is notable for not wearing a mask, this Wonder Woman seemingly has two, including a rather demonic looking helmet. Also, her colour scheme is based less on the American flag and more on the idea of lava under rocks.

She also has a Jim Lee variant cover which suggests she also will have a lasso.

Absolute Superman (By Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval):

Superman is the member of the trinity we know the least about. He is supposed to be more alien (suggested by his glowing red arms and the fact the cape seems to be made of pure energy) and according to the solicitation is "Without the fortress... without the family... without a home" but honestly we don't know much more.

We do have some cool art though (including another Jim Lee Variant):

Absolute Green Lantern (By Al Ewing and Jahnoy Linsday)

Absolute Green Lantern is a "first contact" story and "reimagining" of the Green Lantern mythos featuring Jo Mullein, Hal Jordan, and John Stewart. We have some cool concept art of it including a redesign of Jo that suggests the lanterns might be in civilian clothing illuminated green.

Absolute Flash (By Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles)

This is the book we know the least about. All we really can infer apart from the creative team is that the Flash is presumably Wally West and that he appears to be more tortured character than in most other iterations.

(Shout out to Bleeding Cool for posting photos of the SDCC slides for people who weren't there)

[muzaktomyears]

We met in London, in an upstairs joint called the Ad Lib. I was with Al Aronowitz. Ringo and Paul were there too, and later the Stones came in, and we were all at a big table, with music pounding, and girls crowding around, and Brian Jones all blond and small getting drunk on whiskey in a pool of solitude. John Lennon came in after a while with Brian Epstein and sat down next to me. Aronowitz was telling them they had to listen to Dylan, and McCartney was nodding, agreeing with Aronowitz, while Mick Jagger got up to dance with a young blonde wearing too much makeup. “To hell with Dylan,” Lennon said. “We play rock ’n’ roll.” “No, John, listen to him,” Aronowitz said. “He’s rock ’n’ roll too. He’s where rock ’n’ roll’s gonna go. Listen.” Lennon’s mouth became a tight slit, “Dylan, Dylan. Give me Chuck Berry, Give me Little Richard. Don’t give me fancy crap. Crap, American folky intellectual crap. It’s crap.” He was snarling and bitter and hard. He didn’t want to talk about music. He didn’t want to talk about writing. He looked down the table at Keith Richard. “What the hell are the Yanks here for?” he said, Richard smiled and shrugged. McCartney reached over and touched John’s hand. “Ach, come off it, John,” he said. Lennon pulled his hand away and turned to me. “Why don’t you f - - - off,” he said. “Why don’t you just get the hell out of here.” “Why don’t you make me?” I said. “Hey, come on,” Aronowitz said. “Let’s just have a good time.” “What?” Lennon said to me. “I said you should try to make me get out of here.” He stared at me, and I stared back. The Irish of Liverpool challenging the Irish of Brooklyn. The music pounded, and then, as if he had seen something that he recognized, he smiled and broke the stare and peered into the bottom of his glass. “Yeh, yeh, yeh,” he said quietly, and the moment of confrontation passed. John Lennon left with Brian Epstein. I left with the hatcheck girl. 

The Death and Life of John Lennon, Pete Hamill (New York Magazine, 20th December 1980)

[poppy-metal]

not you wanting the details re:ball sucking 😳 ngl it was the tip of the iceberg bc now he puts his fingers in my mouth while he eats my cunt and wraps his hand around my throat when he fucks me 🙂‍↕️ in my pampered princess era ✨

but now i’m thinking about citygirl!reader’s return to the small town to care for her ailing grandma, the ranch, and her one year old blonde baby girl. her rich husband ofc has to stay in connecticut doing what rich men do and as much as he loves her, he cannot imagine giving up their estate for farmland, golfing with the bros for a hard’s day work with the ranch hands, and vintage italian reds for american brewed ales. so with a kiss to the top of your head and continued access to his bank to care for the farm and granny, he sends you off with his daughter—the second love of his life.

you, on the other hand, are about to burst into tears at the idea of your little girl being near her daddy for the first time. the daddy that wants nothing to do with you and nothing to do with her. but as granny taught you, grit your teeth and keep straight on.

art can’t even begin to describe the whirlwind of emotions plaguing his every being when he sees you on that front porch, white linen dress billowing in the wind, a pitcher of peach iced tea in one hand, and a baby that’s the spitting image of him on the other hip. the bright smile on your face as you pour the tea into every ranch hand’s cup. the laugh that travels straight into his ears whenever a ranch hand makes a fool of themselves trying to make his baby smile. when he makes his way up to you, glass in hand, he tries to avert your eyes, but that means he’s looking right down at his daughter. he can feel your gaze on him. “hi, little one,” he says quietly, using his pointer finger to softly rub her cheek. she coos and nuzzles into his touch. “just like mama,” he says softly, just loud enough for only you to hear.

“you’re the first one to make her smile all day,” you say. art can’t quite place the tone of your voice: outwardly genial, but there’s a touch of apprehension, sadness, and wonder. he can’t help but feel himself open that box he tucked away two years ago and taste that familiar bittersweetness of loving you all over again, and he sees the future he could’ve had.

there’s a certain shyness in your interactions over the course of this summer; with your husband back east and lucy off in cambodia on a mission, it’s so easy to pretend the two of you aren’t married to other people. it’s almost silly. this man has fucked you every way imaginable, broken your heart more times you can count, but the way he cares for you, granny, and your—and his—daughter makes it feel all more new, more intimate.

he doesn’t touch you until the middle of june. it’s an especially rough heatwave that ravages the town, and you give the entire ranch a break for the day. granny is getting better, stronger. the single window a/c unit was moved to her bedroom, so your daughter sleeps in a crib with her grandma. your room is sweltering, but that doesn’t stop you and art from being entangled with each other. it was innocent at first: you and him kissing for hours, hands roaming but never reaching for the places that could escalate it. his body is sticky against yours, but you like the feeling of knowing that you can’t distinguish where you end and where he begins. and when it does escalate?

he doesn’t even fuck you. he just licks at your cunt until the sun rises; his fingers are in you, in your mouth, wrapped around your neck. your pillowcase are wet from your tears. his chin and your sheets are wet from you. and not once this entire night did he let you touch him, let him touch himself.

(finished my first week of teacher training and began setting up my classroom and the chairs and tables are sooooo itty bitty for my three year olds 🥺 but dw ranchhand!art will be making appearances in your inbox even once i’m teaching full time bc citygirl!reader and him deserve it 🙂‍↕️)

- 🤠

cowboy anon whenever I am down you came to pick me up, I swear <///////33333 I love mutual cheating. sigh. so romantic. art eating your cunt like a starved man because he's missed this - it's the his pussy. Jim looking up at you from between your legs, not letting you cum until you tell him who your pussy belongs to - it's reminiscent of the time he fucked you in the haystack the day before you fled, when he made you admit you loved him and couldn't even say it back - you'd thought he was the cruelst man alive at the time, but now you can see how much he needs to hear it.

like he's drowning and your confessions are the air in his lungs. you grip his hair and tell him you've always been his, always will be - and despite how much he's hurt you, your body will always be his too. his to do with what he wants. you couldn't deny him if you tried.

[bucknastysbabe]

heya, just wanted to ask if you write for chubby!aegon?? If so I’m dying for a request (even just a small blurb) just about Aegon and how he’d be with an innocent reader? including how the sex would be cause I reckon he’d still be sooo good won’t even phase the dude 😭 + breeding kink, thank youuuuu!!!

THIS WAS FUN!!! Thanks for the ask, hope it’s good mwah! I had a hard time researching English things. The whole crisps-biscuit-chips-muffins is a nightmare but they did it first soooo. But then went on a hole again on why southern Americans have the accent they do, an educational lesson in the name of smut!

Rating: Explicit

Tags: Frottage, TW: WG, internalized hate, sad boy Aegon, Tyrell!Reader, she’s pretty innocent but Goes For It, chubby Aegon revolution, breeding kink, culture differences, innocence kink, He’s Trying To Do Right For The Poon

Cumming face on God ⤵️

According to the Faith, man and wife should remain chaste until they are wedded. Aegon was definitely not that man. Alicent had hammered it into his aching heads that his bride-to-be will remain untouched. The prince said fuck that and the stupid Gods she adhered to. Targaryen’s did what they want.

If they did exist they crafted his sweet little nymph to tempt the wicked men of the world. Aegon could barely restrain himself from jumping her bones when she giggled at Otto’s dry wit, or helped Helaena scoop up one of those hideous bugs she cared so much for.

The girl was a Tyrell. Otto had to pull some serious strings, or swords to get them to allow the cousin of the powerful Reach family to be his wife. Viserys wanted him to marry Helaena. Aegon refused to consummate, one of the few things he stood up for. They were annulled and Hel ended up with dutiful Aemond. They seemed like a good fit— strange.

Aegon slugged down some wine after his generous portion of meat. His belt dug into his belly. The blonde skimmed a conscious hand down his once flat stomach. His bride would probably think him a pig. Aegon frowned, planning on dragging his lazy ass to training or taking Sunfyre on more arduous rides.

Something to melt off the flesh softened by the drink.

Her musical giggle interrupted Aegon’s thoughts. He glanced up to her wide eyes, quirking a brow. She ducked, hiding a hand over her sculpted lips, cheeks flushed with embarrassment. His cock twitched. Aemond held that annoying smirk of his. His cock un-twitched, if that was possible. The eldest Targaryen snapped, “What’s the fuss?”

She shook her head, snickering. Aemond supplied, “I was telling the little rose about the time you were so drunk they found you trying to ride Cole’s horse thinking it was Sunfyre,” he barked a laugh and waved his hands, “Sōvēs! Sōvēs!” Aegon’s face grew red with irritation. Stupid one-eye.

He grumbled, “Real funny Aemond. Never thought you’d get that spiked cock out of your ass to make jest,” violet eyes turned to the Tyrell, “In your free time, ask dear brother about the Pink Dread hm?”

Aemond slammed his cup down and hissed, “I think I see the pink dread supping right now.”

Aegon was flustered now. Absolutely joyous was he. The pretty girl’s snickers died down to a gaping look. Aegon stood up with his refilled wine and called, “I’ve had my fill, good night to you lovely rose.” Aemond smarted, “Are you positive Aegon? Usually half the feast is gone by now.”

The younger brother shared a look with the Tyrell, shrugging with a ‘hm.’

Aegon fought back the tears in his purple eyes. He was thoroughly embarrassed. He yanked off his belt in a fit, ignoring the pooch of his belly. Off he stomped to his quarters, ignoring one of the twins. Slamming the door behind him, Aegon perched on a thick wooden chair, a trusty flagon already prepared.

He slumped down, poking his soft midsection. Aegon squeezed at his thighs and arms, growing more upset. He groaned aloud, taking a swig of the Dornish Spiced. The prince couldn’t help but wonder if he was dooming the girl to a life of misery like Alicent and Viserys.

Forced to lay under a writhing, bloated man. Bear his heirs.

He suddenly felt very ill. Aegon blew out a breath to calm himself. He ended up tossing the flagon of wine out the window in a fit anyhow. Aegon had never once stopped his race to be the worst being to think about reality. Reality was harsh, unforgiving, made his head spin. He felt ill again, an uncomfortable flush making the prince sweat.

The door was rapped upon, once, twice. Aegon miserably groaned, “What Cargyll? Tell mother I’m indisposed!” The blonde dreadfully wanted to undress but feared what he might see. He had an inkling it was ghastly pale and girlish.

Softened by indulgence.

Aegon’s eyes flicked up to the door, an insult on pouty lips. Instead it was his rose, bashfully peaking through. He straightened up, sucked his belly in as best as possible. Her pretty curls bounced as she squeaked, “The Queen had forbade me from entering your chambers but you looked so upset my lord. Ser Cole said I could visit for a short time. Is everything alright?”

He sighed and thanked the strange Valyrian gods for letting him toss the wine. At least he didn’t look like a total drunkard. Aegon sighed, “Uh, I’m not feeling very well, but do come in.” She gave a small curtsy and rushed in, green silks dazzling against pretty skin. The lady perched delicately against the chair adjacent to Aegon.

The blonde’s violet eyes searched her own, wide and doe-like. He asked in a quick breath, “Do you find me pleasing?” She opened her mouth to be cut off, “Don’t lie to me little rose.” Aegon’s twisted soul vastly enjoyed her surprised noise and tremble of untouched lips. He couldn’t help but watch the flicker of uncertainty making the highborn woman squirm like a beggar, posture drooping.

She gaped, closed her mouth, and let out a small ‘hm.’

Aegon hid his fear with a lazy, “Hm? Taking too long dear.” He spluttered when she launched into his lap. Face to face. Her legs tight against his own, hanging off the sides of the chair. The Tyrell stared him down, a never before seen intensity to his eyes. Her little hands braced against his chest.

Aegon meekly asked, “Is that a yes, my lady?”

He grew more hot under the collar, her tight little body against his softened own. She hummed, “That was uncouth. I didn’t know to how explain that I find your very desirable.” The Reach girl curled a hand into his pale hair, smiling. She whispered, “I’d never thought I’d be married to one of the beautiful dragonlords. My father said your kind is too pretty.”

Aegon found himself hiding a genuine grin up at her. He liked her accent, even the nobles of the Reach sounded strange with their ‘r’s. The prince gently laid a shaking hand on her lower back, humming, “Am I too pretty? I cut my hair but now I feel like a muffin.”

She shook her head, curls bobbing. Aegon willed his cock to still. The Tyrell giggled, “You’re beautiful my prince.” Now was Aegon’s chance to go ahead and break the seal. He injected in a jumble of words, “Am I not trim enough?” His face was suffused in a blush now. How suave.

She laughed harder, “What? You should see the lords of the reach, massive beasts they are,” the lady slid a hand down to his belly, “I’d say you’re the right size. Not all boney like your brother.”

Aegon felt himself relax. Besides his prick. That thing was coming to full attention, fast. He sighed, “Thank the damn Seven.” The prince leaned into her face, earning a sharp inhale from her. He purred, “I’d be a right mess if I didn’t have the attentions of the prettiest rose in the Seven Kingdoms.” It was her turn to grow flustered now.

She looked to the side, biting her full lower lip all bashful and shy. Aegon grabbed her chin and redirected her look. The Targaryen breathed, “No, no, look at me now rosebud. You’ve got your prince riled up.”

His cock ached at her blown pupils, lips lax and for the taking. She whispered, “We can’t yet.” Aegon tucked himself into her tight curls, humming, “There’s other ways around it. As long as I don’t take your maidenhead dear.” She whimpered, hands clawing into his tight doublet.

“H-how do we do that?”

Aegon hummed, “Get on my bed and pull up that dress of yours. Your prince commands it.”

He lazily grinned at her jumping up and skittering to the bed, haphazardly toeing off her shoes. She hopped on and hiked up that beautiful green samite, exposing herself. Aegon’s violet eyes scanned her closed lips, shaking hands, and swollen cunt. He bit down on his knuckles with a groan.

Her shy reed of voice filled the room.

“Aegon? Will you come here already, please? I wish to look upon you.”

Aegon ambled up and approached her, breathing out in relief of the loosening of his stupidly tight breeches. He yanked off his boots first, promising, “Just a moment my rose.” She whimpered again, gazing upon his thickened thighs. The prince crawled between her trembling thighs, smoothing his hands up quavering flesh.

He lectured, “We’ll keep it outside for now. There’s other places on your perfect pussy that’ll make you cry for me,” Aegon nestled his cock against her weeping cunt. She wound a hand into his hair, pulling the prince flush to her body while kissing his plump lips. The prince couldn’t help but rut against his rose at the way she whined and eagerly received his more skilled kisses.

Aegon gripped her thighs as he drug his stiff cock against her clit and slit, the glide impossibly easier with the copious slick. His rose cried into their kisses, babbling against his lips. “S’good, oh my prince,” she whimpered. Aegon crooned, “Poor thing, hasn’t had a man show her real pleasure. Taking what you want.”

The prince off-handedly unbuttoned his coat, uncaring of his pudgy body. Not when this gorgeous creature was crying and begging wrapped around him, calling his name, sworn to bear his children. And those Tyrell’s were famously fertile as the grounds they ruled over.

She made a pouting noise at the release of Aegon’s lips, squeezing her thighs in annoyance. He laughed and spewed filth, “So eager for me already. I can’t wait to fill your pretty pussy full on our wedding night.” The girl practically howled at that, growing frantic. Aegon teased, “Yeah my rose? You like that? Getting stuffed full of my seed, bearing my heirs? Round and ripe with it?”

Tears pricked her eyes as she sobbed, “Yes! Yes! Wan’ your pretty babies!” She seized his lips for a sloppy embrace, whining and carrying one, leaking more and more. Aegon moaned himself, focusing on stimulating her bundle of nerves. She was tightening beneath him, grasping hands growing more insistent. The blonde murmured, “C’mon then, m’close sweets. Cum on me.”

She nodded and gushed against his cock, legs squishing into his waist. Aegon’s eyes rolled back, cumming to her desperate cries and hot slick. He grunted and yelped her name, rolling them over. She whimpered softly, panting while now on top. Aegon’s cock grew limp as he kissed her a couple more times.

She hummed, “I can’t wait. I’ll have as many as you want Aegon. As many.” She gently thumbed his plumped cheek, smiling at the degenerate like he hung the moon. Aegon grinned for once, promising, “I’ll give you as many my sweet,” he smacked her ass, “Too busy to rule because I’m fucking my fertile wife huh?”

Round two was about to begin based on her darkening look.

[literalite]

character/story influences tag

rules: write up a blurb or make a visual collage of the people or characters (from books, TV shows, movies, etc.) that inspired your story and/or OC, either visually, personality wise, or just a general vibe

thanks for the tag @tricoufamily :DD i am tagging @gunthermunch @lucidicer @itsmariejanel @orphyd @goldenwaves this is FUN u should do it. thank u

medias/characters meet me in the woods: man in the dark (paul auster), orlando (virginia woolf), lord huron's entire discography, specifically meet me in the woods and the ghost on the shore, the godfather 1972 (barely), age of adaline 2015, the old guard 2020, this specific cc cross, and reading homer's the iliad in my final year of high school. somehow don't go where i can't follow: the raven cycle (maggie stiefvater), his dark materials (philip pullman), adventure time 2010-2018, mitski’s bury me at makeout creek album, next of kin by alvvays, bite the hand by boygenius, matilda (roald dahl) (jokingly), horrible no good homoerotic teenage friendships, the chosen one trope, and this post by tumblr user @/louisegluckpdf. also my life which explains why the aesthetic is completely disjointed RIP violent affairs (with @lucidicer): nbc hannibal, bones and all 2022, arachnids, ethel cain’s preacher's daughter, sir chloe’s i am the dog album, mine and olli's deranged combined mental energies mutually focusing on t4t cannibalism  vinny reign: matt murdock (netflix daredevil), joel miller (tlou), the fallen angel painting by alexandre cabanel, caravaggio paintings, catholic guilt, arsonist’s lullabye by hozier caleb vatore: those italian twinks that renaissance artists kept referencing to paint religious figures, dorian gray, orlando, timothee chalamet (LMAO), the reveal that the noo don’t kill yourself you’re so sexy guy is a twink [redacted] morrow: gojo satoru, howl pendragon (studio ghibli), jay gatsby, kageyama shigeo and also a bit of reigen arataka (mp100), ronan lynch and gansey (the raven cycle), eden's entire discography, birdcage by novo amor, mercy by sir chloe, myself ophelia griffin: ophelia painting by john everett millais, blue sargent (the raven cycle), clairo, phoebe bridger's discography, strawberry blonde and your best american girl by mitski, clairo’s immunity album, the first crush i ever had manny pluto: yotasuke takahashi (blue period), tbh a lot of blue period in general, alhaitham (genshin impact), adam parrish (the raven cycle), a hint of geto suguru, working for the knife by mitski nayef al karim: spiders, abel AND cain, julian slowik (the menu 2022), hannibal lecter (yes obvious i know but moreso the focus on fine dining as opposed to the psychology), stewy hosseini (succession), inbred by ethel cain

[noturlondonboy]

Fireworks Weren’t on the Menu

-Bishova 4th of July Oneshot

Masterlist

Pairing: Kate Bishop x Yelena Belova (established)

Summary: We’re getting the band back together! At Clint’s farm, specially- for the 4th of July. Nobody thinks to warn Yelena about the fireworks.

Warnings: panic attack, angst, not proof read

Word count: 2.5k

A/N: some domestic Bishova fluff and Avengers family shenanigan followed by the angst that none of them can escape. Enjoy <3

“I still don’t understand the point of this silly holiday,” Yelena grumbles aloud, pouting as she helps Kate grab blankets and coolers from the back of their car.

”Yeah, I think it’s overrated, but it’s also an easy excuse to take work off and spend some fun time with family.” Her wife shrugs and props a cooler up on her shoulder. Yelena gives herself a moment to admire the strain in her muscles between her pouting, and Kate just laughs and rolls her eyes when she catches her.

”You guys are late!” Natasha’s voice calls out, and Yelena grins widely as she bounds over to her sister, coolers completely forgotten.

“But you love us, so you cannot even be mad,” Yelena coos, her eyes wide and innocent as she throws her arms around the redhead’s neck and squishes their cheeks together.

Natasha giggles, arms looping around Yelena’s waist to hug her back. “Maybe I’ll just have to tickle you to get back at you.”

The blonde shrieks and jumps a foot in the air, leaping back so quickly that she bumps into Kate and subsequently knocks the brunette over. The coolers topple, luckily not spilling, but they both still wince at the loud sound.

”Sorry, darling,” Yelena says quickly, grabbing Kate’s hands and pulling her up to her feet. “Are you okay?”

Kate nods and brushes a stand of hair from Yelena’s face, pressing a kiss between her eyebrows. “Yes, silly. Grab a cooler for me? Nat, can you get the blankets?”

The assassin’s both nod, grabbing their respective items and heading into Clint’s house behind Kate, chatting happily.

The atmosphere on the Barton farm is light and happy, and Yelena’s smile is infectious. Kate follows behind her wife with a content smile on her lips, eyes bright as they greet their friends and family.

”So! What is the plan for today?” Yelena asks at one point, her hands moving efficiently as she chops up a watermelon.

“Well, there’s a pool with some water toys outside for the kids, and the dogs are all running around, and Clint is getting some games out while the food is finishing, so it should just be kinda open and relaxed.” Kate finishes slicing the strawberries, her tongue poking at the inside of her cheek as she lines them up on a cake to make the red stripes of the American flag. “Plus, once the kids are asleep, I hear Natasha and Bucky are planning to break out a few bottles.”

Yelena can’t stop the grin on her face as she continues to chop, going on autopilot as she glances to her archer. “Sounds like fun.”

Kate scoffs amusedly, her tone light. “I’m a little scared to see Steve drunk.”

Yelena hums, going back to her watermelon, but stops after a moment. “He can’t get drunk.”

The archer shrugs. “Thor is bringing Asgardian ale just for him and Bucky. Should be interesting.”

The blonde barks out a laugh, her eyes scrunching. “The star spangled man, tipsy on alien alcohol.”

“Clint’s camera will be out,” Kate chuckles softly.

The two of them melt into a comfortable silence, humming and working around each other as they prepare separate dishes in the coolness of the kitchen.

“Lena?”

“Kate Bishop?”

“I love you.”

Yelena’s expression melts into adoring gooeyness, and she spins happily into her wife’s arms, their lips meeting softly in kiss after kiss after kiss as Kate dips her, their cheeks rosey.

“And I love you.”

——

“LITTLE BARTON!”

Yelena’s shriek echoes around the open space, catching several people’s attention as the blonde is mobbed by Nathanial and Cooper, armed to the teeth with water guns. She’s laughing and screaming playfully as they soak her, her own hands empty of any weapon as she scrambles around the pool in search of equipment.

Kate watches the scene with a glowing heart, her arms folding over her chest as she dries off from swimming.

“Cheating! This is cheating! I am unarmed! Clint Barton, your children are ruthless!” Yelena yells, her cheeks aching with open mouthed laughter. She shrieks as Nathanial throws his little frame at her, and she catches him before he can sink beneath the water, her head tilting back to avoid his splashes.

“Kate Bishoooop! Save meeeee!” she wails, eyes scrunched happily as she pleads for mercy.

Kate giggles and sips at her drink before jogging over to the pool, diving in and swimming under the water towards Yelena’s legs. With an over exaggerated roar, she bursts from the water, scooping up her wife and Nathaniel into her arms. Nathaniel shrieks with laughter, his limbs flailing in an attempt to escape, and Cooper rescues him from Kate’s hold with a coy smile.

The two women giggle loudly, brushing their noses together. “My white knight,” Yelena beams, blinking water from her eyes.

“My lady,” Kate smiles back, her cheeks flushed and she covers Yelena’s face with kisses.

Cooper makes a gagging noise at the same time that Nathaniel wiggles from his arms to join in on the love, his little body scooped back into the embrace of the two women and his soft cheeks smothered in little pecks as he squeals in delight.

——

“Kate Bishop, pleaseeee, I cannot eat another bite,” Yelena begs, clutching her full stomach even as her eyes twinkle and she accepts the brownie in Kate’s hand.

Her wife just smiles brightly, an eyebrow raised. “Not another bite? Maybe you’ll have some room for dessert later, though, right?”

Yelena gives her a knowing look. “You know I always have room for dessert, love.”

Kate grins. “I know.”

Clint’s voice rings out over the group a few minutes later as the sun begins to set. “Okay, who’s ready for fireworks?”

People whoop and holler, their cheers excited. Steve looks particularly amped, but that may be the asgardian ale. Who’s to say, really.

Yelena’s brow furrows and she watches in confusion as small boxes and tubes are set up on a patio out in the middle of the field, with most of the boys crowded around them excitedly. Bucky and Sam lag behind, looking perfectly content to rest in their chairs and whisper to each other.

“Kate, what are…” she starts to say, her words peetering off when she glances over and sees Kate’s chair empty. Yelena hums, looking around the yard for her wife and spotting her showing Laura something on her phone. She lets out a soft sigh and stands after finishing her brownie, stretching her arms above her head and wincing at the crackling in her joints.

Yelena stops to say hi to Darcy and Carole on her way over, oohing and awing over Carole’s powers for a minute before waving with a smile and continuing on her way. She’s about halfway to Kate when the first explosion goes off.

Something in Yelena’s blood boils, her ears ringing as her body instinctively blanches away from the noise. Except that the noise is everywhere, and there are showers of light burning the sky open.

She’s in the Red Room again. Women are bleeding in her arms, skin burnt away and bullet holes riddling their bodies.

Her body is tucked away on the ground when she stumbles blindly and smacks her head on something, and the concrete is the only thing keeping her from screaming out. Something warm drips from her face. Blood coats her hands. There’s another explosion. Her ears ring. Her head swims violently.

There are hands clawing at her stomach, tearing away at her insides in a desperate attempt to be free. Her palms slap painfully over her ears, nails digging into the side of her head as she tries to curl her body into a ball, but the explosions are surrounding her, drowning her, burning her-

Hands are on Yelena’s body, hands that are warm and kind and safe, but she flinches away from them so violently that she physically gags, her tongue coated in bile as her stomach roils. Her elbows split open on the pavement, her feet kicking out blindly as her mouth opens in a scream that she can’t hear.

Everything is wrong. Everything is bad. Everything is burning.

She spends minutes in a haze of terror and sorrow. Hours. Days. Eternities. It starts with the Red Room, and it ends with the Red Room. She ends with the Red Room. She is nothing but the Red Room.

No one escapes. No one gets out. Fire is coating her skin and tugging at her nerves, sizzling them away as the memory of needle stabs and cold gun muzzles shoot through her stomach.

Yelena heaves again, something gritty in her eyes when she presses her forehead into the ground hard enough for a rock to cut into her temple, and she coughs so sharply that her stomach twists into painful knots.

“Yelena, sister. You’re not there. He’s not here. You’re safe. Yelena. Yelena.”

Her hand instinctively slaps out in a fist, connecting sharply with something that makes a noise in retaliation, but Yelena can only wail as her chest constricts and she slams her hands back over her ears. The explosions continue, and they rattle her skull, make her lips buzz, causing her to bite down into her tongue and fill her mouth with sticky metal.

Yelena gags again, coughing and spitting, her head swimming and eyes going blurry when the pavement underneath is suddenly awash in red that relflects the horrible things exploding in the sky.

“Yelena, Yelena, Yelena.”

The tears in her eyes feel like blood, and she can only scream.

——

Yelena doesn’t register that she even exists until what feels like hours later, when she finally blinks her eyes open to see the familiar faces of Natasha and Bucky, and not blood raining down from the sky like hellfire.

“Where am I…?” she croaks out in Russian, her tongue dry and thick and her lips feeling as if they’re about to crack.

Bucky is holding her head gently in his lap, his tired eyes kind as the cool metal of his arm stokes sweaty hair from her forehead. Natasha’s hands are oh-so gentle as she cups her sister’s cheeks, as if she’s afraid Yelena’s will break if she’s handled any harder.

“We’re at Clint’s place, Yelena,” Natasha says softly, switching to their mother tongue in a smooth motion. The familiar accent is like a balm on Yelena’s ears, so much gentler than the explosions that had rocked the sky.

“You had a panic attack, little bear.” Bucky rests his metal fingers against her eyebrows, and the temperature contrast heightens her awareness of just how warm her body feels. “A nasty one, too,” he continues, also in Russian. His deep voice is soft and raspy, and settles Yelena comfortably into a sense of familiarity that helps her breath come easier.

Yelena blinks up at them both, the muscles behind her eyes sore. “What…?”

“Fireworks,” her sister explains, shifting to settle back down with Yelena’s hand in her own. “They’re a traditional part of the 4th of July. You remember those neighborhood parties we would have back in Ohio? Yeah. We didn’t… I never thought to mention them.” There’s guilt in her voice, her green eyes haunted as she scans Yelena’s form over and over, as if looking for injuries.

“It’s okay, Talia,” Bucky mutters gently, his free hand resting on her knee. “I didn’t either. Neither did Kate. Nobody did.”

Yelena blinks again, her head starting to pound now that the world exists in her perception again. “So we’re not… everything’s okay?” she mumbles, one of her hands coming up to rub weakly at her forehead.

Bucky and Natasha both nod in tandem. “Everything’s okay.”

A heavy sigh falls from Yelena’s lips, and she lets herself sink back into Bucky’s lap, stretching her legs out in front of her from the awkward, curled up position they had been in. “Son of a bitch…” she mutters to herself, her hands flexing uneasily over her stomach.

Her sister laughs softly, her expression starting to ease. “Yeah. Son of a bitch.”

“How are you feeling?” Bucky asks her gently some time later, his metal fingers careful as he works at some of the kinks in her hair.

“Like shit,” Yelena mutters back, a groan in the back of her throat.

“Fair enough.”

They all sit in comfortable silence with each other for several minutes before Yelena lets out a deep sigh and cracks her eyes back open. “Where is Kate?”

“I think she’s distracting herself with the dogs right now,” Natasha murmurs. “Do you want me to go get her?”

Yelena nods. “Please.”

Bucky stops Natasha before she can get up, gingerly moving Yelena’s head from his lap to her sister’s. “I can go, Natalia. I need to go make sure my husband isn’t doing anything stupid, anyway.”

Natasha’s eyes are grateful, and she gives his hand a gentle squeeze. “Thank you, James.”

The super soldier nods and exits the room after giving Yelena a soft look, his footsteps silent on the hardwood. He keeps the door open a crack behind him, and Kate’s face appears through it a minute later.

“Ekaterina,” Yelena murmurs once she sees her.

Kate’s entire body seems to droop in relief, and she pushes her way into the room when her wife beckons for her. “Hi, baby,” she says softly, her eyes distraught as she sits on the floor next to the two Widows.

Yelena takes her hand immediately and brings it to her lips, pressing featherlight kisses to each calloused knuckle before resting the familiar, slender fingers against her forehead. “Are you alright?” she asks gently in English, accent thick.

Kate nods and uses her other hand to cup Yelena’s cheek. “I should be the one asking you that, my love,” she murmurs. “I didn’t think to warn you about the fireworks. I’m sorry.”

“I am okay now, Kate Bishop.” The blonde gives a weak smile and pushes to sit up with a groan, and both her sister and her wife wrap their arms around her shoulders to help prop her up. “Just… feel like soggy noodles.”

The archer gives a small nod. “Can I hold you?”

Yelena sinks into her embrace without hesitation, her cheek pressing into Kate’s collarbone. She sucks in a deep breath and lets it out slowly, her brain relaxing further at the comforting scent of cinnamon and flannel. “I am sorry for scaring you, Kate.”

Two pairs of arms wrap around her, Natasha’s red hair tickling her cheek as Kate rubs absently at the knots in her back. “Don’t be. It’s okay. We’re okay.”

“Did I ruin the silly little July 4th?” the blonde whispers after a moment, her eyes half lidded as she stares at the wall through Kate’s ponytail.

“No, baby. Not at all. Everyone just wants to make sure you’re okay.”

Yelena groans loudly and presses her face into her wife’s neck. “Great, all those posers have their attention on me.”

Both Kate and Natasha rumble a soft laugh. “Those posers are your family, and they love you very much.”

“I know, I know.” Yelena presses closer to Kate. “Can we just… stay in here for a bit? Please?”

“Of course, my love.” Kate rests her hand on the nape of her wife’s neck, tucking her under her chin while Natasha continues to run her fingers down Yelena’s spine.

“We can stay here as long as you need.”

[pizzalordmarv]

doing a lil poll for fun because i like polls. below the break is a couple of popular songs from each band if it helps you to choose

(just realizing I forgot to put prism here. fuck)

POPULAR SONGS FROM EACH BAND

Rush - Tom Sawyer, Subdivisions, Fly By Night, Closer to the Heart, Limelight, The Spirit of Radio, Freewill, and Working Man.

Triumph - Somebody’s Out There, Lay It On the Line, Magic Power, and Follow Your Heart.

Loverboy - Working for the Weekend, Lovin’ Every Minute Of It, The Kid Is Hot Tonite, Turn Me Loose, Hot Girls In Love, and Queen Of the Broken Hearts.

Kim Mitchell - Patio Lanterns, Go For Soda, Rock ‘N’ Roll Duty, I Am A Wild Party, All We Are, and Lager and Ale.

April Wine - You Could Have Been a Lady, Just Between You and Me, Sign of the Gypsy Queen, Bad Side of the Moon, Oowatanite, Tonite Is a Wonderful Time to Fall In Love, and Say Hello.

Trooper - We’re Here For a Good Time (Not a Long Time), Raise a Little Hell, The Boys In the Bright White Sportscar, General Hand Grenade, Santa Maria, and Two For the Show.

Honeymoon Suite - Stay In the Light, Feel It Again, Burning in Love, Wave Babies, and New Girl Now.

Gowan - (You’re A) Strange Animal, A Criminal Mind, and Moonlights Desires (I’m sorry I don’t know a good amount of Gowan songs).

Platinum Blonde - Standing in the Dark, Doesn’t Really Matter, Crying Over You, Not in Love, Situation Critical, and Somebody Somewhere.

The Guess Who - These Eyes, American Woman, No Sugar Tonight / New Mother Nature, No Time, Hand Me Down World, and Share the Land.

Bachman-Turner Overdrive - Takin’ Care of Business, Hey You, Let it Ride, You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet, and Roll on Down the Highway.

[silentglassbreak]

The plot with Jolly at the fest sound like very interesting story. I'd love to read it

I didn't get too much detail on this one, so I'm just going to run with it? First time writing for Jolly, so let's give it a shot.

**After writing notes: WOW this one went in an entirely different direction than I expected...

It just happened. I hope someone enjoys it. LOL.

Rating: Explicit

Warnings: Soft smut, mentions of death

Sweater Weather

Why does no one ever have the balls to tell Noah he’s being a diva?

Listen, the man is my brother. We’re family. För alltid mitt blod. I would take a bullet for him, and I have no doubt he would do the same for me.

But, sometimes, he’s so fucking irritating.

How hard it must be to have such talent and be so attractive, everyone loves you, and you work hard to maintain an image. However, taking out the stress and pressures on the only guys who also know how being in this band feels?

Noah was arguing with one of the stage techs, telling him that the image they had prepared to be behind us doing our set was wrong. He’s right, they had prepared the image of the mannequins, when it was supposed to be the album cover, but that wasn’t this poor little man’s fault.

“God, it’s not a hard fucking thing to do!”

“I’m sorry, dude. I’m putting in the request to have it switched.” The man wasn’t exactly cowering, but he was intimidated for sure.

I stepped up behind Noah, letting a gentle hand fall on his shoulder. I could feel his muscles relax slightly under my fingers.

“C’mon man. It’ll be fine. We have an hour until our set. They’ll get it fixed.”

I felt him take a deep breath, and saw how he closed his eyes to center himself. This was something I taught him.

The tech scurried away, leaving us alone in our tent.

It was so fucking hot, which was interesting, given we were in Michigan. Upheaval festival was one of my favorites. It was a smaller event, which meant a more regular experience with the fans. Usually, it also meant better food and beer vendors.

“Hey, guess what I found?” Nick came bounding into the tent, a large mug in his hand.

“Beer, I assume?” Noah pointed his attitude at Nick, who rolled his eyes in return.

“They have a beer garden! Jolly, they’ve got a Swedish ale you might dig!”

I snorted. “Guarantee it isn’t actually Swedish.” Grabbing my hat from the couch, I placed it over my long hair that was pulled back in a low ponytail, and headed for the exit.

“I will go check it out though. Folio out there?”

Nick nodded. “He was spotted, so he’s chatting with some fans.”

I smirked. “Let’s hope he can get out before the set.”

Noah turned and looked at me. “Don’t be late getting back, please! We go on in under an hour.”

Shooting him a thumbs up, I headed for the mayhem of the festival.

As suspected, there was nothing Swedish about the beer, but it did have good flavor. I stood to the right of the beer garden, sipping my mug, and people watched.

It was always so fascinating to see the mix of people who came to these shows. European festivals were one thing but American festivals? You saw everything from multi-colored hair to breasts only barely covered by mesh tops or pasties. It was a sight to behold.

After a moment of zoning out, I looked down at my watch to see I still had twenty minutes before we had to head to the stage. Noah was likely bursting because I wasn’t back yet, and I smiled to myself at the thought. He could sweat for a few minutes, would do him good.

Deciding I should at least start making my way back there, my eyes scanned for the direction I needed to go, somehow getting turned around. Eyes searching over heads and bodies, I didn’t even see the person coming toward me, knocking my shoulder directly into them as I began walking forward.

My beer sloshed over the edge of the cup, pouring foam down the girl’s arm.

“Fuck! I am so sorry!” I turned, and my eyes locked onto the face in front of me.

Wisps of natural, dirty blonde hair floated in the slight breeze, framing a tan, small face. The rest of her hair was pulled up on top of her head in a bun, tightly secured. Her eyes were lightly lined with black, mascara clinging to her lashes. Pink, full lips covered by only a thin gloss were hanging open, startled by the cold liquid on her shoulder.

“Shit! I didn’t even see you, I’m so sorry!” She apologized, wiping her arm with the sweater tied around her waist. Her white tank top was now an amber color on one side.

I couldn’t speak. She was gorgeous.

“Jesus, I’m such a fucking klutz.” She groaned, hastily grabbing napkins off of the cart behind us and wiping at her arm, and then at my hand.

When her ice blue eyes looked up at me, I felt the air rush back into my lungs.

“No, no that was my fault. I’m very sorry.”

When the realization crossed her face, I saw it like a firework exploding behind her vision.

“You’re Jolly fucking Karlsson!”

This made me chuckle. “Something like that, yeah.”

I reached a hand out, which she took graciously, smiling at me with a wide, toothy grin.

“It’s such an honor. I’m a huge fan. I was actually rushing so I could get back to see your set!”

Her words snapped me back.

Fuck.

“Oh, good! I’ve got to get over there! But, uh,” My brain was working overtime. “maybe I can find you after? You can buy me another beer?”

I let any suave I had take over, which seemed to work decently, given she blinked multiple times.

“Sure, of course!”

“Jolly!” My head snapped over to see Matt barreling toward me. “Dude we go on in ten minutes!”

Looking back, I watched as her face fell slightly, my arm now being physically pulled in the opposite direction. Being led away, I hollered.

“I’ll meet you back here!”

I was only given a nod, and a wave in response.

-

The set was electric, Noah's earlier nerves rolling off of him comfortably as he put on a show. Nick was absolutely flawless on his bass, flipping his hair over and over. Folio, as usual, lost himself in the drum beats, freestyling here and there.

I, however, was way off my game. Something about my encounter with the mesmerizing blonde earlier kept me thoroughly distracted. Over and over, my eyes swam through the sea of people in the crowd, trying my hardest to find a blonde messy bun and steel blue eyes, but it was in vain. I couldn't see anything.

I thought about her again and again, unable to shake the feeling of wonder from my bones. For whatever reason, I needed to see this girl again. Her aura, her energy, it radiated beauty, rarity, like a gemstone.

Pärla. A magnificent treasure.

The thoughts racing in my brain made me lose my focus more than once. During Nowhere to Go, I missed several notes, my guitar making an awful screeching sound. I forgot to sing backup vocals during Limits entirely, earning me a glare from Noah, and a look of concern from Nick.

I had ignored it, and continued on, my eyes still searching. It was hopeless. I would find her after. I had to.

Once Dethrone concluded, and I ran off stage, setting my guitar down, I felt a hand pull my arm, flinging my backward.

"Dude, are you okay?" Nick looked straight at me. "You drunk?"

I furrowed my brow. "Of course not."

"Well, you don't really fuck up on stage, Jolly, so what the fuck?" Noah was standing directly behind Nick, eyes shooting me down with fury.

I shrugged. "I'm sorry. I was looking for someone."

This made them both leer backward a moment. "Who?" Noah asked.

"This girl. I met her at the beer garden."

They reacted equally differently. Nick let up a sly smirk, his eyebrows raising. Noah, however, narrowed his eyes.

"You almost blew the set for some broad?"

Rolling my eyes, I turned toward them. "I didn't blow the fucking set, Noah. Quit being so dramatic."

I could see the fire burning behind his irises, which I would definitely pay for later in the form of his attitude.

"Are you fucking kidding, dude?" Noah began scolding me, but Nick held up a hand.

"Chill. Jolly never fucks up, ever." He turned to Noah, giving him stern eyes. "And the set was fine."

Huffing, Noah stomped away, throwing a tantrum like a child.

I smiled at Nick, grateful. "You know how he gets at festivals."

Nodding, I began to walk away. "Got to go."

Waving him off, I weaved through all of the people behind the stage area, making my way back out to our tent, where Davis and Matt were already packing up equipment. I grabbed a clean shirt out of my backpack, and slipped it over my head. I pulled half of my hair up in a tight bun on top of my head, and slipped on my sunglasses.

Headed back out, I noticed the sun was nearly set, and the beer garden area was almost vacant, most people over by the stages. Sleep Token had just started, so the vendors were long abandoned by almost everyone.

I found the napkin cart, and stood, arms crossed, scanning around. After about ten minutes, I had to remove my sunglasses to be able to see clearly as night was falling. A chill ran up my spine as the temperature began to drop. No sign of her, but I didn't mind waiting.

Thirty minutes.

Forty-five.

One hour.

I stood, eyes glancing around, head bobbing to Sleep Token's heavy bass and Vessel's incredible vocals. However, my mind was elsewhere. Maybe she didn't want to miss their set? Maybe she forgot where to meet? I didn't know how to find her.

I didn't even know her name.

It was a mystery, and I couldn't get it out of my head. I was going to have to give up soon. The festival would be ending, and I would have to get back with the guys, head back to the hotel. The thought made my stomach sink. Why was I so entranced with the idea of this girl? All she did was spill beer on me. Why did I insist on finding her?

"Jolly?"

I spun, much faster than I should've, on my heel, and was met with cold, freezing blue eyes, staring up at me. Her gloss was worn off, and her eyeliner was smudging ever so slightly under her eyes. Her bun was long gone, blonde hair now free-flowing down across her shoulders.

"Pärla."

Her smile was confused. "Uh,"

"It means gem. I didn't know your name, so I decided to go with that."

The blush on her cheeks was a sweet addition to that gorgeous sun kissed skin.

"I like that." She rubbed her palms on the front of her jeans. I noticed her sweater was now around her shoulders, covering the beer stain on her tank top. "I'm sorry, I know we said we'd meet after your set. I had to get one of my friends back to our hotel."

Shaking my head, I waved her off. "No worries."

"Did you wait long?"

An hour wasn't a long time, I don't think.

"Nope."

With a finger pointed at the beer garden, she asked, "So, you want that beer?"

I perused this. I wasn't much for a drink right now, comfortable with just talking to her. "You going to have one?"

Shrugging, she looked over toward the crowd. "I don't think so. I've got to get back to the hotel with my friends soon. One of them is really drunk, and is a sick mess."

My face soured. "That doesn't sound fun."

Scrunching her face, she stuck her hands in the pocket of her sweater. "It isn't. I'm pretty annoyed about it, actually."

Nodding, I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket. I had been ignoring it for a while.

Matt: Dude, if you're coming with us, we gotta go now.

I typed a quick response.

Me: Meet you back at the hotel.

We walked around the festival grounds for a while, just chatting about different things, somehow managing to distract her from the fact that she should go back to her hotel, and I, mine.

"You're from Florida?"

She nodded. "Daytona. I hate it."

"Why? Isn't it sunny and beautiful all year-round?" I chuckled.

She joined me. "Sure, if you like a lot of drugs and alligators everywhere."

We found some benches, having a seat. I pulled a pack of smokes from my pocket, lighting one.

She stared at me, smirking. I lifted the pack toward her. "Want one?"

She shook her head. "I'm okay. Thanks, though."

Blowing out the smoke, I turned my attention back to her face.

"So why come to Michigan for a festival?"

Her eyes were lost on the crowd, amused. "Why not?" She leaned back on her seat. "I love the adventure of traveling. Seeing different cities. If I get to enjoy good music while I'm at it, why not?"

"You get to meet a lot of cool people doing it, huh?"

Looking over to me, I saw her lips turn up slightly. "Yeah, I do."

A cool silence fell over us for a moment while I finished my cigarette.

Out of my peripheral vision, I saw her head turn toward me. "It's closing."

We noticed the bodies moving past us toward the exit. I nodded. "We should get going soon."

I swore I saw a flash of disappointment cross her features, but only for a second before a look of excitement crept across her face.

"Hey, you want to go somewhere?"

I raised an eyebrow. "Where?"

Smirking, she stood, pulling at my arm. "I know a place, c'mon."

With no time to protest, she pulled me, and I had to nearly jog to keep up. I watched her hair, looking nearly silver against the bright lights at the parking area, fly behind her as she ran toward the Uber line.

We waited, and I slipped my sunglasses back on, and tried not to be obvious.

Once our turn came, she leaned forward to give the driver the address, quiet enough so I wouldn't hear. The driver raised a brow.

"I'm pretty sure it's closed for the night."

She waved at him. "Just go. It'll be fine."

With a nod, he began driving. I stared at her. "Are you taking me somewhere to kill me?"

Her teeth flashed. "You'll have to wait and find out." And she turned to look out at the darkness beyond her window.

Something inside me wasn't worried.

We walked along the boardwalk, out onto the sand. We could hear the soft waves crashing, but it was difficult to see beyond she shoreline.

"Welcome to Lake Michigan!"

The stars, bright and vast, seemed to bounce off of the stillness of the water. It was breathtaking. She bound ahead of me, slipping her shoes off and holding them. Her eyes were fixed on the water, before she dropped down in the sand, looking up at the sky.

I followed suit, taking a heavy seat next to her. It was so quiet, so calm. We weren't supposed to be here at midnight, but something in the chilled air felt so serene.

"What did you call me before?" Her voice was even, still looking at the sky.

"Hm?" I had to shake out of my thoughts.

"At the festival. You called me a name. In another language."

I smiled. "Pärla." She looked back at me. "It means gem."

A warm grin spread across her lips. "I like that." She echoed her earlier sentiment.

It occurred to me at that point, that she still had not told me her first name.

"What else do I call you?"

Her eyes narrowed, thinking. What was there to think about?

"I think that'll do."

I raised an eyebrow. "What?"

Her gaze turned back up to the sky. "Pärla. That's good."

"You're not going to tell me your name?" Confusion laced my voice.

Hugging her knees to her chest, her eyes transfixed on the stars, she bit her lip. "Not yet."

It was strange, but what could I do?

Silence fell over us again, but she eventually spoke up.

"Do you ever miss Sweden?"

Clearing my throat, I mimicked her body language, pulling my knees up.

"Sometimes. It's my home."

Her lips were pulled in a tight line, and I saw what looked to be a tear brimming at her eyes. "I never miss mine. I'm never going back."

"Why not?"

Turning to look at me, a slow tear rolled down her cheek, but she held a sad smile. "I'm happy right where I am."

Trying to process what she said, I struggled, because all I could feel was the urge to grab the tear with my finger, and wipe it from her face. I kept my hands to myself, however.

"So," I tried to lighten the conversation. "how long have you been a fan?"

This made a genuine grin crack across her face. "About a year. I heard you guys for the first time on TikTok. When I looked into the music, I was hooked."

I nodded, listening to the smooth sounds of the waves. "Yeah, that's how a lot of people found us."

"It's good music. I really enjoyed the new album."

"Yeah, it was fun to make."

She looked directly at me. "Do you like being in a band? What's it like?"

That made me huff out a laugh. "It's something else, that's for sure. Chaotic, at times. Rewarding, most others."

Amused, she crossed her legs under her and turned her body to face me. "What are the other guys like?" I raised a brow and she smiled sheepishly. "I'm not trying to fangirl, just curious."

Shaking my head, I turned to face her as well. "Nick is awesome. Mediator when things get tense. He tends to keep a cool head easier than the rest of us." I sighed. "Folio is...young. He's so lighthearted, and full of life. I envy that sometimes." She smiled at that.

"And Noah is..." I trailed off, choosing my words carefully. "Brilliant, but can be a lot sometimes."

"Like how?"

"Like," I intertwined my fingers. "he gets anxious. He's a perfectionist, so there's never room for error. It can be a pain in the ass, but we owe a lot of our success to it."

She nodded. "He's talented."

"Very. So, we put up with it, mostly."

Peering up at me from under her lashes, she spoke low. "And what about you, Jolly? What are you like?"

This gave me pause. How do I answer that?

"I'm..." I really had to think about that answer. "I don't know, really. I'm just, me? The guys call me the 'Dad' of the group, but I'm really only a few years older than Nick."

A hand slid over my knee, and I glanced down at it. "Well, I don't know you very well. Only from what time we've spent the last few hours, but I think you're very interesting."

Resting my chin on a fist, I considered her words. "Do you?"

"Yeah, I do. I think you're very sweet. And complex."

"Complex?"

She let out a giggle, which broke the quiet air with a sweet sound.

"Well, you got in an Uber with a complete stranger, without knowing where you're going, and now you're sitting on a beach in the middle of the night."

This made me smirk. "Point taken."

"That's shows adventure. I like it."

I focused on the ring piercing her left nostril, and the small batch of freckles on her nose. Her hair was hanging long, the moonlight illuminating it.

I felt the pull, the same one that brings the planets together. The pull that gravity is made of. Her eyes flashed back and forth between mine, and her lips parted so slightly. Instinctively, I leaned close to her until I could feel her breath against my face. It was cool, almost cold.

When the soft skin of her lips touched mine, she took a breath in, gasping.

My hand lifted to press against her cheek, pulling her closer, and pressing our lips together.

Like a lightning bolt struck the sand between us, we were lit up with energy. Her body lunged toward me, knees climbing up into my lap as she kissed me, tongue pressing into my mouth. My hands wrapped around to her back, pulling her into me, as she writhed against me.

Her hips pressed down, jeans grinding against mine, the lack of friction making it nearly unbearable. My lips kissed down to her neck, sucking and biting at the soft skin. Her hair had fallen over her face, eyes fluttered closed. Her fingers were grazing down my chest, pulling at the fabric of my t-shirt, and eventually landing to the button of my jeans.

My own hands located the access point of her pants, popping them open. Disconnecting for a moment, she pulled back to shimmy out of her jeans, leaving her in a pair of black panties, kneeling in the sand in front of me.

Staring directly into my eyes, she reached to my jeans and opened them effortlessly, unzipping them, my aching cock bulging against the fabric of my boxers. Her hand slipped to the waistband, freeing my erection. I stared at her with intent. Something in her eyes was dark, something I couldn't place.

"Do you want to?" Her voice was so small. So desperate.

I couldn't respond, so I only reached for her, pulling her face back to me. I laid her down on her back, leaning over her and letting my mouth mold over hers, one hand slipping down her stomach, to her core.

My fingers easily grazed past the elastic of the underwear, running through the soft patch of curls just underneath, until I felt the moisture of her lips between my fingers.

She moaned into my mouth as I slipped my middle finger inside of her, curling it to press against that soft, sweet spot that had her breathing erratic.

"Fuck." She breathed against my mouth. My hand was pumping her hard, a delicious wet sound nearly drowned out by the waves behind us.

"I don't have a condom on me, Pärla."

Her eyes snapped open, and she smiled. "I'm okay, if you are."

Morals? Rational thought? Responsibility? What is that?

I was okay. More than okay. This could be bad. Dangerous, even. Something in my gut - no - my soul told me that this needed to happen, and it needed to happen now.

Steady fingers pulled her panties down, slipping them off, before I hovered over her, lining the head up with her entrance.

As slow and precise as possible, I pressed in, my eyes falling closed with the vibrant sensation that engulfed me. She let out a long, deep groan with me.

"Oh God, Jolly."

I let my lips fall back down to the flesh on her neck, thrusting in and out comfortably, savoring the feel of her on my skin.

We went on like this for longer than I would've expected. Our voices echoed off of the water, the darkness swallowing us as our bodies synchronized. Her pussy tightened around me each time I pulled out, begging for more.

Eventually, I sped up the snapping of my hips, leaning up to get a better angle, pulling her knee up to her chest.

Her hands dug into the sand around us, head careened backward.

"Oh Jolly, fuck, so fucking good." She was biting down on her lip so hard, it was sure to bleed.

I was so close. I needed her release. "Come for me, Pärla." My breathing began stuttering. "Let go, for me."

A long, visceral moan left her lips, and I felt her walls spasm around me as I began emptying into her, my orgasm smacking me hard in the chest.

I pumped us through it, one hand holding her face, watching the waves of pleasure rush over it.

Once we slowed to a stop, I collapsed next to her, a lazy smile on my face.

"That was..." I started, too tired to finish my sentence.

"Unreal." Her words were stark. Matter of fact. Her eyes were looking back up at the stars.

I followed suit, zipping my jeans back up.

"I'm glad I met you today, Jolly."

I let my eyes fall on her again, and smiled. "Me too, Pärla."

My eyes opened to a flashlight shining directly on them.

"Hey, asshole!" I squinted, my hands coming up to shield my vision from the abrasive light. "You can't fucking sleep here. Go find a fucking shelter!"

"What?" I sat up, looking up at the person in front of me. A police officer.

"You've got to get out of here, man. I don't want to take you in."

I held my hands up in defense, standing to my feet. My eyes glanced around, realizing I was very much alone.

"Where's the girl I was with?"

The cop raised an eyebrow. "No one but you here, bud. Let's go."

His hand grabbed my arm, leading me off the beach. I turned back toward the water, hollering out into the darkness.

"Pärla?!"

No response. Just silence.

-

A week had gone by, and I was back home.

I had done everything I could think of to find her, but still came up with nothing. No name. No number. Just a physical description and vague location. Have you any idea how many blonde-haired, blue-eyed, tan-skinned girls are in Daytona, FL? It was comical.

After about four days, I had pretty much given up. Part of me felt hurt. Why had she left? Was she okay? She knew me, why hadn't she reached out?

Was she just in it for the sex? Or to say she screwed a member of the band? Did she regret it?

Something felt wrong. Her presence, her energy. It felt so genuine. I struggled to believe she really just ran off, leaving me to fall asleep alone on that beach.

I had Ubered back to the hotel, heading straight to Noah's room to tell him what happened. It was 4AM by the time I made it back, and he looked at me like I was insane.

Still, he showed his human side for a moment, and empathized with me, offering to help try and find her.

Back in Los Angeles, I was sitting in the studio, trying to perfect a guitar rift, when Noah bounded in with Folio. We had everyone together for the next two weeks before we left for the next festival.

"I don't get why people are so scummy."

I raised an eyebrow at Folio's words. "What's that?"

He turned to look at me, falling into a chair. "This article, man. About Upheaval?"

I stopped my strumming, looking up to give him my full attention.

I took note that Noah was scrolling on his phone fervently.

"What about it?"

Noah looked up at me, pursing his lips. "I guess someone got really hurt?"

"Not hurt. Someone fucking died, dude."

This made me furrow my brows. "What?"

"Yeah. Some girl got trampled in the fucking crowd."

Noah rolled his eyes. "The article I read said she had a seizure, and fell into the crowd. They didn't get her out in time."

"During which set?"

"Sleep Token." Noah responded.

"Wow, really? I saw damn near the entire thing. I didn't see anything happen."

"Well, that's the point, man. No one did, until the end. By that time, she had choked or something." Noah handed his phone to me, and I noticed it was scrolled to the bottom of the article.

"It's bullshit they waited so long to say something." Folio chimed in.

Noah shrugged. "Trying to protect the festival's reputation, I guess. Too bad. She was fucking cute, too."

My thumb scrolled to the top of the article, taking a moment as it was long.

When the picture at the top came into view, my hand that held my rig went slack, dropping the instrument on the floor.

It didn't make sense. It was a mistake of some kind.

25 Year Old Female Dies At Music Festival - Safety Protocols Being Investigated

The photograph that stared back at me, mocking my dropped jaw and widened eyes.

"Jolly, you good, dude?" Folio asked as he reached down to grab my guitar, now on the floor.

I couldn't respond. My blood had coagulated in my veins. My skin hardened to stone as my eyes stared at the picture, mind blanking.

The girl in the picture stared into my very soul.

Dirty blonde hair. Ice blue eyes. Small patch of freckles. Plush pink lips.

Pärla.

[captain-mj]

can we get pricegraves but price’s hat follows the cowboy hat rule (and he puts it on graves) :)))))????????

Lovely idea, thank you!

Price had Alejandro and Rodolfo explain the cowboy hat rule maybe a dozen times. He made sure he understood exactly how it worked. It didn't take them long to realize this wasn't just normal curiosity.

"So who are you planning on putting your hat on?"

"You know the blond American?"

Rodolfo choked on his drink, covering his mouth. "Really? That one?"

"Yes." Price hummed. "Think he knows about this rule?"

"I mean... he is southern right? I'm sure he does." Alejandro laughed. "Good luck on that one."

Price did a mock salute and tried to find a good time.

Graves was talking to a few of his shadows, in all his gear. The way it hugged along his hips and thighs made Price's mouth water. His head had tilted to show off more of his neck and Price didn't understand how no one else was affected.

Price walked up next to him, making his footsteps purposely louder to alert him of his presence. Graves didn't skip a beat as he continued to talk to his shadows.

Price slipped the hat off his head, twirled it between his fingers and placed it on Graves's head. The man immediately went scarlet, fumbling over his words. He glanced at Price questioningly before continuing to talk to his shadows, though there was a bit more urgency. Noticeably, he didn't take the hat off. It looked good on him.

Graves dismissed the shadows and looked at him. "Why did you... do that?"

"I didn't have a cowboy hat."

Graves went redder. "Do you... You're british."

"Ale and Rudy explained it."

"I don't think they explained it right." Graves laughed. "What exactly did they tell you? I don't think..." He was embarrassed. Price found it incredibly endearing.

"It means you want the person to ride you. I'm very aware of what it means."

Graves stared at him before coughing. "Yeah, well."

"You haven't taken it off."

Graves blushed harder. He still wasn't taking it off.

Price moved a little closer. "My room?"

-

Price laid back and pulled Graves on top of him. All of their clothes were scattered on the floor, but now that Graves had it, he seemed reluctant to take the hat off. Instead he straddled Price with a shocking amount of ease.

"You do this often?"

"I used to steal cute cowboy's hats at rodeos when I'd get dragged along. Lot of practice that way." Graves winked, one hand on Price's stomach and the other holding the hat on as he looked down at him. "You have lube?"

Price grabbed it for him and coated his fingers. He let Graves sink down on to them, watching the soft blush travel down his chest with fascination. Graves flushed more and leaned down, kissing Price and letting him work him open.

"Fuck, your hands are big."

Price chuckled and finished working him open. "There you go."

Graves straightened back up, putting his hands on Price's chest. He slid down slowly with a groan. He stopped suddenly, whimpering slightly. Price had to take a deep breath to steady himself. The tight heat was maddening and it wasn't even taking all of him yet.

"You alright, love?"

"Been a while. You're a lot bigger than I was expecting too."

"You were thinking about this?" Price teased but Graves flushed and avoided his eyes. "Darling, you could've just came to me anytime. I would've taken care of you, just like I'm doing now." He grabbed his hips and gently pressed more, watching his eyelashes flutter.

"Feels good. Just a lot." Graves panted, grinding down to get used to the sensation. "Fuck, you're perfect."

Price thrust up slightly and Graves moaned loudly. He quickly covered his own mouth, looking mortified. Price did it again, hitting his prostate harder.

Graves hit his shoulder. "Stop that. I'm supposed to be riding you, cowboy." He settled his hands again and rolled his hips just fucking right.

Price groaned, head tilting back. He was not ashamed to make noise during sex and judging by the look of delight on Graves's face, it was a good idea. Graves quickly set up a rhythm, switching between bouncing and rolling hips, all with a lazy grin on his face.

"You like cowboy? Or are you more of a sir person?"

"I like sir. I also like my name. Price, not John."

"Call me Phillip and I'll get up and leave." Graves twisted his hips and Price had to bite back a moan to answer.

"Understood, love." He pulled him down for another kiss, sitting up so Graves could keep moving.

"Feels so good, sir." Graves mumbled to him, sinking back down with a groan. "So damn good."

Price thrust up into him again, feeling him clench around him. "Come on, darling. Want you to come first, alright?" He reached between them, gently stroking his cock, a sharp contrast to the almost brutal pace Graves had now.

"Fuck." Graves panted against him and nodded, leaning up a bit to drive him deeper into him.

Price started to stroke him faster, making his teeth clench. He whimpered when he came. His body clenched around Price who quickly thrust up into him, holding him tight.

Graves held on tight to his arms, panting harshly. His mouth hung just the slightest bit open, his tongue barely visible. Price grabbed him by his throat and kissed him hard, forcing his tongue in his mouth right as he came in him.

Graves went limp as soon as he did, lazily kissing back. He put Price's hat back on him.

"Anytime you want a repeat..."

"I'll tell you."

"Yes, sir." Graves purred, laying on him.

[skinnyazn]

Tennessee Whiskey

Simon 'Ghost' Riley x Fem!Reader Notes: fluff, they dance in a bar, I’ve never played the game but I’m o b s s e s s e d with big boy Ghost, my first COD fic hope y’all like it, it was inspired by my Tennessee Whiskey (a classic) which came on at dinner last night and so I had to write a fic obv

AO3 | MASTERLIST

The buzz of the neon sign hummed behind your head. The 141 was celebrating tonight—a victory somewhere just across the Mexican-American border. It was a bit of your standard Southern bar, with sticky floors and tables to match. Soap and Alejandro were taking shot for shot of tequila, while the big man who’d recently (and inappropriately) began to haunt your dreams—his large hands roaming your body—mask halfway up as he ate you like a man starved—was sipping a bourbon next to you at the table. His balaclava raised just above his nose. You watched the dim light dance off his blonde stubble. A reminder of how long you all had been on the mission.

You reluctantly drew your eyes away, back to the amber liquid in your own cup. A smirk found its way to your lips, but whether from the alcohol or the ambiance you couldn’t tell.

“What?” gruffed the masked man.

“Hmm?” Your eyes back on him. Half lidded; seductive, but unintentionally.

Ghost looked at you, eyes briefly flicking to your lips, then looked out to the bar. Your eyes lingered on him, then followed his gaze. 

“Alejandro! How th’ hell’s it go again?” Soap blared over the music. He was standing; Rudy laughed on his barstool.

“Hermano, if you slowed down a bit maybe you’d remember it,” Alejandro taunted back.

“Ack. C’mon. We’re celebrating tonight! I’m allowed to get pissed, right L.T.?”

The Scott looked at Ghost. His broad chest shook as you heard his light scoff.

“Sure, Johnny. But I’m not gonna be the one to carry ya home.”

“Booo!” Soap replied. “You’ll walk me home, won’t you Alejandro?” He made puppy eyes at the Mexican.

“When you look at me like that how can I say no?” Alejandro grabbed his cup. “Alright, ¡arriba, abajo, al centro y pa' dentro!” he bellowed.

Soap drunkenly chimed in the the latter half of the toast. They shot back the remnants of the tequila. Ghost shook his head next to you. 

“Not gonna join in?” You smiled and angled toward him. Your knees brushed under the table but he didn’t flinch away. You relaxed a little into it.

“Someone’s gotta keep an eye on you guys.” He picked back up his glass and took a sip. You watched his adam’s apple bob as he swallowed. You felt a flush in your cheeks.

“That’s a shame.” You swirled your glass.

“Why’s that?”

“Would like to see what The Ghost looks like with his guard down.” You knock back the rest of your drink and signal to the bartender for another.

You felt Ghost’s gaze heavy on you as you watched the other team members enjoying themselves. You angled your neck at him, intentionally this time. His body tensed against your knee and tried your damndest to stifle a smile. He took another sip from his drink as the bartender brought yours to the table. He raised his empty glass and the bartender nodded.

“Didn’t picture you as a whiskey girl.”

“Oh?” You tapped your forefinger on the liquid and circled the rim of your glass. “Why’s that?” 

“Dunno. Figured you for tequila. Or mezcal.”

You turned and looked him in the eye. “I like the burn of a good whiskey down my throat.”

His gaze was frozen on you. Was he leaning closer? It felt like you couldn’t pull back and neither could he. You moved your knee against his softly, and his eyes dipped to your lips again. His blonde lashes contrasted against his black eye paint. Such a pretty man.

The bartender set another glass of bourbon on the table. You felt your cheeks flush as the trance was broken and looked back out at Soap, who was now doing some kind of drunken do-si-do with Rudy. Price shook his head as cigar smoke wafted around him. You liked this team—it was like one big idiotic family. So you probably shouldn’t ruin that by trying to seduce your L.T..

“Do you dance?” 

You turned your surprised face to him again. But now he was looking out at the team.

“Do you?” You asked, as you took another sip of your whiskey. If he was going to ask you, you’d need a little more of the liquid courage. 

He simply pointed up and you listened to the music.

You’re as smooth as Tennessee whiskey.

You smiled. It was one of your favorites as far as country songs went. “Thought you loved Kentucky?” 

Ghost shrugged. “S’good song.”

“Mm. A classic.”

He took a sip.

“So?”

Your grin spread wider. “If I’m asked properly.” Your finger rubbed the rim of the glass.

His barstool groaned against the floor. He was such an imposing figure when he stood. But he was built like a god and you desperately wanted to feel his body pressed against yours. Even if it was just through a dance.

“Can I have this dance?” He held out his gloved hand. You smiled as you stood. Your hand was so small in his. 

He was surprisingly tender as his palm rested on the small of your back while the other held your right hand. You both swayed to the music.

I’ve looked for love in all the same old places. Found the bottom of the bottle’s always dry. 

You rested your head against his broad chest. He stiffened slightly, but then you felt his muscles acquiesce; his heartbeat becoming more steady. You wondered the last time someone had treated him with tenderness. His fingertips ghosted circles on your back, over your black tank top, as you moved from side to side.

You’re as warm as a glass of brandy. And honey, I stay stoned on your love all the time.

“Where’d you learn to dance?”

“A past life.” 

You looked up at him, cheek still against his chest. He was staring vacantly forward. God you wanted kiss him so badly.

“Don’t look at me like that.” You felt the vibrato through his body.

“Why not?” Your lashes brushed against the fabric of his shirt.

“Cause then I’m going to have to take you home.”

“Hmmm,” you hummed against him. Your fingertips mimicked his as you stroked his broad back.

“And I already told Johnny I wasn’t gonna carry him back. How would that look, me leaving with you?”

You nodded your head understandingly. “Don’t want to break the poor boy’s heart.”

“S’right.” 

You looked back up at him. This time he returned the gaze. You heard his heart beat a little louder. A little faster.

“But you said you wouldn’t carry him home. Never said anything about walking home.” You contended.

He hummed in agreement. The vibrations you felt through his chest sent a heat straight to your core.

“I did, didn’t I?” He let go of your hand and his thumb brushed your bottom lip. Your mouth parted automatically. He dragged it down. The coarse fabric brushed against your chin. Grazed the length of your throat. Fuck. You were in it now.

“In that case,” he nodded to the door. A seductive smile broke across your face and you bit your bottom lip. And the two of you slipped out of the bar without a sound; his hand never leaving the small of your back.

[honesty-my-policy]

some fresh resources (05/24/24)

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) Hamas Terrorists Attack Kerem Shalom Aid Crossing for Fourth Time in MayEgyptian Blockade of Aid to Gaza Earns Rebuke from U.S.Terrorist Rockets Discovered Next to Gaza’s Border With Egypt Harrowing Footage Released of Female IDF Soldiers in Hamas Captivity FDD VISUALS IRAN-BACKED WEST BANK CHAOS IRAN AND ITS NETWORK OF NINETEEN TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS ON ISRAEL’S BORDERS MAPPING TERRORISM IN THE WEST BANK

HonestReporting Why Won’t Media Give a Platform to Gazans Who Oppose Hamas? Campus Journalism Fueling the Next Generation of Anti-Israel Media Media Ignore Quietly-Revised UN Figures of Hamas-Reported Civilian Deaths Media Falsely Blame Israel for Rejecting Hamas’ Ceasefire “Proposal”

UNWatch UNRWA staff stealing and selling humanitarian aid, Gazans report ICRC Head of Office posts Hamas propaganda, says “f*** neutrality” in leaked Facebook postsUNRWA Attacks Those Who Warn Of Staff Support For TerrorismUN Watch Warned UNRWA About Staff Support for Terror Since 2015 NGO Monitor (really good stuff here) See No Evil: NGOs Turn Terrorists into Civilians in 2021 Gaza Conflict NGO Monitor research has identified 50 incidents in which Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives killed in Gaza were falsely labeled by NGOs as civilian casualties, or in which civilians killed by Hamas were implicitly attributed to Israel. (more if you scroll down) Excuse and Disregard: Palestinian NGOs on Teens’ Involvement in Terror Attacks and Violent Clashes Behind the ICC Prosecutor’s Narrative: The NGOs that Pushed the “Starvation” Libel in October The NGO Network Orchestrating Antisemitic Incitement on American Campuses EU-Supported Palestinian NGOs and the October 7th Hamas Massacre Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) MEMRI Executive Director Of 'American Muslims For Palestine' Osama Abuirshaid At George Washington University Encampment: We Will Take Back America, Just Like We Will Take Back Palestine; You Will Be The Past, We Will Be The Future Hizbullah-Affiliated Lebanese Academic Sadek Al-Naboulsi: Hitler Recruited Child Soldiers, So Why Shouldn't We? There Is Nothing Shameful About Raising Children On The Principle Of Sacrificing One's Life Mahmoud Habbash, Advisor To Palestinian President Abbas: Without A Solution To The Palestinian Issue, October 7 Will Be Repeated 100 Times; Hamas Derailed Us From The Path To Statehood Lebanese Druze Leader Walid Jumblatt: October 7 Was A Great Moment In The History Of The Arab-Israeli Conflict; Hizbullah Is Defending Lebanon Against Its Historic Enemy Fmr. President Of Jordanian Medical Association Dr. Tareq Tahboub: 90% Of The Content On TikTok Is Pro-Palestinian; Blonde, Tattooed European And American Girls Are Converting To Islam

[star0mania]

Twilight OC because I don't fucking know anymore-

"The word students mostly use is..." "Tempestous?" "More like bitchy"

Name: Alexis Robin Cullen

Name Meaning: First Name: Alexis- Protector of humanity  Middle Name: Robin- a bird Last Name:  Cullen- Good-looking lad

Title: The  Hellhound

Nicknames: Alex (preferred name) Al (Bella and Alice) Rory (Edward, Jacob and Jasper) Robin (Emmet and Rosalie) Mittens (Edward and Alice) Little one, my little star (Belinda) Sis, Ri-Ri (Bea) Auntie Ria (Hailey) Ria (friends)

~~~

Age:   Physical Age: 17

Ages throughout the saga: Twilight: 15 Twilight New moon:  16 Twilight Eclipse: 17 Twilight Breaking Dawn pt 1: 18 Twilight Breaking Dawn pt 2: 19

Gender: Female

Pronouns: she/her

Sexuality: Bisexual

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Species: vampire

~~~~

Date Of Birth: August 10th 1990

Place Of Birth: Miami, America 

Date Of Death:  N/A

Place of Death:  Forks, Washington

Cause of Death: N/A 

Abilities:  Basic vampire abilities Improved speed Exceptional self-control

Special Ability: shapeshifting (can shapeshift to any human or animal)

~~~~

Nationality:  American

Languages:  English Korean Spanish Italian 

~~~~

Schooling: Forks Highschool

Previous Occupation: Ice Cream place employee, student at Forks Highschool Current occupation: Music Producer

Previous Resident:  Miami, America 

Current Resident: Forks Washington 

First Appearance: Twilight

Last Appearance: The twilight saga: part 2

Status: alive

~~~~

Played by: Julia Stiles and Raegan Revord for younger self Voice: Julia Stiles and Raegan Revord  

Eye color: dark blue

Hair color: dirty blonde

Hair texture: wavy/curly

Hair length: long

~~~~

Appearances: 

Twilight The Twilight Saga: New Moon The Twilight Saga: Eclipse  The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part one The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part two

~~~~~

Mental Health: Anxiety Disorder  Hypomnesia

Fears: Hydrophobia: Fear of water Nosocomephobia: Fear of hospitals

~~~~

Positive Traits: Confident Kind  Caring Loyal Courageous Brave Sassy Bold Adventurous  Independent Protective

Negative Traits: Sarcastic  Rebellious  Secretive  Childish (rare trait) Lazy(rare trait) Can feel guilty easily Struggles to open up to people

Skills: Hacking Coding Writing Art Lock-picking LyingSoccer

Hobbies: Baking Singing Writing Reading Archery  Dancing Skateboarding  Playing soccer

Likes: Animals Her guitar  Her computer Wolves Nature Music HorsesReading

Dislikes: Dresses Snobs The volturi Socializing  School  Homework Makeup The heat homophobics Salmon Her cat sneeze Needles

~~~~

Drinking: sometimes

Smoking: sometimes

Addictions: n/a

~~~~

Pet: Batty- Australian Cattle Dog- female Simba- Golden Retriever- male

~~~~

Best Friends: Bella Swan Alice Cullen Jasper Hale

Close Friends: Rosalie Hale Carlisle Cullen Emmet Cullen Esme Cullen Edward Cullen Jacob Black (long lost friend)

Friends: Eric Yorkie Mike Newton Angela Webber Jessica Stanley 

Frenemies: The werewolf pack

Enemies: The volturi  James Victoria Laurent 

Family: Carlisle Cullen- Father Esme Cullen- Mother Edward Cullen- Brother Alice Cullen- Sister Belinda- Bio Mum (deceased) (played by Idina Menzel) Jaybird- younger bio brother (deceased) (played by George Henry Davidson)  Bea Austin- older sister (deceased)  (played by Sophia Carson) (age: 17-20 in Alexis's tale) Jack Austin- brother-in-law (deceased) (played by Joseph Quinn) Nick- Bio Dad (unknown) (played by Dwayne Johnson)   Jacob Black- Imprint/Mate Mindy Black- daughter (played by Jenna Ortega) (special power: Fire control) Jazzy Black- daughter (played by Zendaya) (special power: water control) Chad Black- son (played by Mason Gooding)(special power: electricity control) Annika Austin- niece (Played by Sadie Sink)(special power: Ice/snow control) (age: 1- 8(in Alexis's Tale(a book I'm finna write), same ages as Seth in the rest of the saga) (Crush: Seth Clearwater)

Annika in the rest of the saga:

(Alexis's tale)

(Twilight)

(New Moon)

(Eclipse)

(Breaking Dawn)

"Ugh, you want me to shift, you don't want me to shift! Choose a lane!" "And now you're a boy." "I am today."

~~~~

"Before you ask, I brought the dog in."

Love Interests:

Past Love Interests: None. Well, a teen named Rick had a crush on her but they're just good friends

Current Love Interest:  Jacob Black

                             ~~~~~~

Ship Name: Jalex

Relationship trope:  Long lost friends to enemies Starcrossed lovers enemies to friends friends to lovers soulmates 

Relationship headcannons: -TBA-

Relationship playlist: Love will find a way- TLK 2 I Won't Say I'm in Love- Hercules Bella Notte- Lady and the  Tramp A Thousand Years- Christina Perri True Love- P!nk Rewrite the Stars- The Greatest Showman You Belong With Me- Taylor Swift Love Story- Taylor Swift Someday- Z-O-M-B-I-E-S We're of the same pride- TLG Neverland- Zendaya Faded- Sara Farrel version Photograph (female and male version)- Ed Sheeran Perfect- Ed Sheeran Happier- Ed Sheeran Shut Up and Dance- WALK THE MOON Marry You- Bruno Mars Beautiful  to me- Ollie Murs Mary on a Cross- Ghost Hello Hello- Elton John and Lady Gaga Love me like you do- Ellie Goulding 

Relationship variants: Gamora + Peter Quill- GOTG Wanda Maximoff + Vision- MCU Max + Lucas- Stranger Things Kiara + Kovu- TLK 2 Bluestar + Oakheart- Warrior Cats Brightheart + Cloudtail- Warrior  Cats Bella + Arrow- Survivors Hanna + Caleb- Pretty Little Liars Kat + Patrick- 10 Things I Hate About You Maggie + Glenn- The Walking Dead Michonne + Rick- The Walking Dead  Millie +  Moxxie- Hellvua Boss Elle  + Tao- Heartstopper Katherine + Danny- Just Go With It Angel + Scamp- Lady and the Tramp 2 Lady + Tramp- Lady and the Tramp Jenna + Balto- Balto Juliet + Gnomeo- Gnomeo and Juliet

Relationship Aesthetic: 

~~~

Trivia: Alex lives in her own huge house with the help from  Carslie so she can provide for Hailey after her sister died.She mostly shapeshifts into a lioness. Its basically her  spirit animal lolShe met Jacob when she was in the forest one timeOut of everyone in the family, Emira likes Alice and Rosalie the bestAlex loves to play with her dogs and play on her guitar She got bullied when she was little Alex used to own a bunny named Frothy but he went missing ;w;

Backstory: Alexis was born to Belinda, a vampire and Nick, another vampire on the 10th of August before her brother, Jaybird and along with their younger sister Bea. Belinda was a huge role model in her life where her dad was hardly around. Their mom warned them about the werewolves. They hanged out with the Cullens whenever both of their parents were busy. When she was 8, she met Jacob and played with him but was cut short when her mom took her away from him, telling him his family was part of the werewolves. So, she never hanged with him again.  Soon enough, when a fight between the Volturi and their family broke out, the dad ran away in cowardly fear and her mother and brother died. Alex and Bea cried next to their mother and brother that night and she grew distance between her sister.

A few years later, Bea and a vampire named Jack  Austin, soon having a child with him. Alex noticed something off with Jack and tried to tell Bea but Bea wouldn't  listen. Alex gave up and looked after Hailey whenever her sister or brother-in-law were busy and grew attached to her. She soon met Jacob again when she told him off for going onto vampire territory. Bea and Alex continued going to school, hence Carlisle helping them with school fees cause he's ✨rich✨. After getting into an argument  with Bea one time, Bea got ran over   by a car and passed away and Jack left, leaving Alex with Hailey. She soon started hanging out with Jacob,  giving up with everything and they both slowly started to develop  feelings for each other. By the time they were 17, they started to secretly date, the pack and Cullens soon finding out and who   knows what happens next :)

Character variations: Gamora (ROTG) Kiara (TLK) Kat Stradford (10 Things I Hate About You) Megara (Hercules) Sidney Prescott (Scream) Mindy Meeks-Martin (Scream) Bella (Survivors) Missy (Young Sheldon) Bluestar (Warriors) Loona (Hellvua Boss) Octavia  (Hellvua Boss) Megara (Hercules) MJ (Spiderman) Nimona (Nimona) Hanna (Pretty Little Liars)

Memorable Quotes: "What is this, asshole day?!" -Alex to a few classmates when they didn't leave her alone

"I guess in this society, being a male and an asshole makes you  worthy of our time" -Alex to a few classmates when they were being jerks

"Who's ready to get FUCKED?!" -Alex to a few friends when they're drunk

"Hey...you have a   bit of oceanic blue glimmer in your eyes" -Alex to Jacob when they're hanging out at night

"Holy shit, Carslie!" -Alex to Carslie when he showed her, her  new house

"I hate the way you talk to me, and the way you cut your hair. I hate the way you drive my car; I hate it when you stare. I hate your big dumb combat boots, and the way you read my mind. I hate you so much it makes me sick, it even makes me rhyme. I hate the way you're always right; I hate it when you lie. I hate it when you make me laugh, even worse when you make me cry. I hate it when you're not around, and the fact that you didn't call. But mostly I hate the way I don't hate you. Not even close, not even a little bit, not even at all." -Alex in English and Literacy class, reading a poem out loud about Jacob lol

Theme song: All Is Found

Annika and Alex:

Bea and Alex:

Jaybird and Alex:

(Art not mine) (If ya see any references, ykwyk)

------------------------------------------------

OC #2

"Hey, leave him alone!"

Name: Annika Daisy Austin

Name Meaning:  First Name:  Annika- grace Middle Name: Daisy- a small plant Last Name:  Austin- capital of Texas

Title: The Hellhound's Cousin

Nicknames: -TBA-

~~~

Age: Physical Age: 

Ages throughout the saga: Alexis's Tale: 1-8 Twilight: 10 Twilight New moon: 12 Twilight Eclipse: 14 Twilight Breaking Dawn pt 1: 16 Twilight Breaking Dawn pt 2: 18

Gender: Female

Pronouns: she/her/they

Sexuality: Pansexual

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Species: vampire

~~~~

Date Of Birth: May 8th 2005

Place Of Birth: Forks,  Washington

Date Of Death: N/A

Place of Death: N/A

Cause of Death: N/A

Abilities: Basic vampire abilities Improved speed Exceptional self-control

Special Ability: Ice powers (elsa)

~~~~

Nationality: American

Languages: English

~~~~

Schooling: Forks Highschool

Previous Occupation: Forks Primary Current occupation: N/A

Previous Resident: Forks, Washington

Current Resident: Forks Washington

First Appearance: Alexis's Tale

Last Appearance: The twilight saga: part 2

Status: alive

~~~~

"The Volturi? Really? We gotta be afraid of a guy who looks like a rat?"

Played by: Sadie Sink

Voice: Sadie Sink

Eye color: ocean blue

Hair color: red

Hair texture: wavy/curly

Hair length: long

~~~~

Appearances: Alexis's  Tale Twilight The Twilight Saga: New Moon The Twilight Saga: Eclipse The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part one The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part two

~~~~~

Mental Health: N/A

Fears: -tba-

~~~~

Positive Traits: Confident Kind Caring Loyal Courageous Brave Sassy Bold Adventurous Independent Protective

Negative Traits: Sarcastic Rebellious Secretive Childish (rare trait) Lazy(rare trait)

Skills: Skateboarding  Baking Painting Drawing

Hobbies: Singing Writing Reading Skateboarding

Likes: Animals Her guitar Her computer Wolves Nature Music Horses Reading

Dislikes: Snobs The volturi Socializing School Homework The heat homophobics Salmon Needles

~~~~

Drinking: n/a

Smoking: n/a

Addictions: n/a

~~~~

Pet: Batty- Australian Cattle Dog- female Simba- Golden Retriever- male

~~~~

Best Friends: Bella Swan Alice Cullen Jasper Hale

Close Friends: Rosalie Hale Carlisle Cullen Emmet Cullen Esme Cullen Edward Cullen

Friends: Eric Yorkie Mike Newton Angela Webber Jessica Stanley Jacob Black Seth Clearwater Leah Clearwater

Frenemies: The werewolf pack

Enemies: The volturi James Victoria Laurent

Family: Belinda-grandmother (deceased) (played by Idina Menzel) Jaybird- younger bio brother (deceased) (played by George Henry Davidson) Bea Austin- bio mother (deceased) (played by Sophia Carson) (age: 17-20 in Alexis's tale) Jack Austin- bio father (deceased) (played by Joseph Quinn) Nick- grandfather(unknown) (played by Dwayne Johnson) Seth Clearwater- Imprint/Mate

"For the last time, I ain't Elsa-"

~~~~

"You're not bad yourself"

Love Interests:

Past Love Interests: none

Current Love Interest: Seth Clearwater

~~~~~~

Ship Name: Sethikka

Relationship trope: Friends to Lovers Starcrossed lovers soulmates

Relationship headcannons: -TBA-

Relationship playlist: True Colors- Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake Didn't Know I could Feel This Way- Lady and the Tramp I Don't Care- Emma Heesters 

Relationship variants: Cloudtail + Brightheart- Warriors Scamp + Angel- Lady and the Tramp 2 Nala + Simba- The Lion King  Rani + Kion- The Lion Guard Elle + Tao- Heartstopper Gwen Stacey + Peter Parker- TASP

Relationship Aesthetic: -tba-

~~~

Trivia: -TBA-

Backstory: Annika Daisy Austin was born on the 8th of May 2005 to Bea and Jack Austin. She loved her parents and aunt dearly and they loved her back. Whenever her parents weren't around, she hanged out with her aunt, Alex. But everything took a turn for the worse when her parents died. Alex was forced to look after Annika. But everything sorta worked out for the both of them.

A few years later, she meets Seth when they are training to fight Victoria's vampire crew in Eclipse. They became friends and as time passed, she developed a small crush on him. She teased him playfully sometimes but other times, she was good friends with him. They met again when Edward and Bella got married and hung out secretly when no one was looking. They soon became a couple while Edward and Bella were on their honeymoon. And time will tell what happens next :D

Character variations: Brightheart (Warriors) Gwen Stacey (TASP) Angel (Lady and the Tramp 2) Hailey (TMF) Milly (TMF) Claire (Tales of Arcadia series)

Memorable Quotes: -Tba-

[cleoselene]

nine favorite albums in no particular order,

tagged by @an-ivy-covered-summer (thank you I love to ramble about music)

Portishead - Dummy - This is probably my favorite album of all time? It's perfect to me. It makes me feel so good, physically and mentally. It's the quintessential 90s album, the definitive trip-hop album, and always makes the list of "25 Albums You Should Own On Vinyl" for a reason. It's immaculate and it spawned a slew of imitators who never ever got close to this kind of quality. I think people also don't appreciate hop much trip-hop/downtempo has influenced today's pop music. SZA's latest album especially felt super trip-hoppy, so did elements of Midnights.

Massive Attack - Mezzanine - if there's one other trip-hop album you should pick up, it's this one. This album benefits greatly from Elizabeth Fraser of Cocteau Twins' ethereal vocals. Every song on this is amazing. When I was playing this album for a friend about a decade younger, he said "oh this is the album with the music from all the movies." lol. Indeed It's been licensed to hell for a reason!

Tori Amos - Scarlet's Walk - Okay I set a rule for myself that each artist would only get one album in this list to avoid putting up nine Tori Amos albums, but Scarlet is my favorite. This road trip across America immediately after 9/11 is one of the first albums to... if not criticize the US response to 9/11, because it was really too early for that, but to be very, very wary of what the response would be. It's an album that expresses sympathy for a wounded nation, while also acknowledging the nation's sins. I think this is one of a few Tori albums that was too high concept for the mainstream audience, but Tori has never been for the mainstream audience, anyway.

Taylor Swift - evermore - Of all the Taylor Swift albums, it was reputation that brought me to the dance and Red that made me fall madly in love. But evermore is her best work. It's perfecting upon the formula she came up with in folklore. Which, don't get me wrong, I love folklore, but with Taylor's obsession with being "sonically cohesive" it's kind of a bummer of an album? I appreciate how the vibes of evermore are more varied. Also, "ivy" is the most beautiful song she's ever written.

Green Day - American Idiot - This album doesn't need much description, it's so well-known, but nothing really compares to how hard this album hit during the height of Bush Era Hell. As a 26 year old when this came out, it felt like my generation was getting our mainstream protest music, finally.

Paul Simon - Graceland - This album won the Grammy for Album of the Year for a reason: it's soooo good. I know there's a lot of drama/controversy surrounding it, but I always felt Paul approached his love of African music from a genuine place. It's such a good midlife crisis album, I understand it now more that I am in midlife than I did when I discovered it at age 12. And the bass line for "You Can Call Me Al" is fucking legendary, isn't it? PS - Paul Simon is the greatest songwriter of all time.

VNV Nation - Automatic - Why was it so hard to pick a VNV Nation album? I really kind of wanted to put last year's Electric Sun in the mix, but I need to let that sit with me before I add it to a list like this. This is the album that brought me to the dance: "Gratitude" is an all-time fave VNV song of hopefulness. "Control" is the dance club banger to end all dance club bangers. I loooooooove this band. I wish there were more futurepop bands out there, tbh, it's SUCH an excellent genre.

Lana del Rey - Norman Fucking Rockwell! - This is Lana's best. It's not really even close. This is one of the best albums of the 21st century. The way "The greatest" so perfectly encapsulates the Trump-era nihilism... I DO want shit to feel the way just like it used to. Kanye West IS blond and gone. We DIDN'T know that we had it all. :( The ache of nostalgia in our current very painful times hits perfectly on this record (WHYYYY don't I own it on vinyl yet??)

Puscifer - Existential Reckoning - So hard for me to pick a Maynard project and not pick TOOL, but Puscifer has become my favorite of his three bands. Existential Reckoning is similar to NFR! in that it captures the political moment. Maynard has never seemed particularly political in his music until this record, which is pretty interesting. ER seems to be advocating for a return to rationality over ideology, of moderation over extremism, of science over faith. It takes a very humanist approach to looking at life in 2020. "Apocalyptica" is probably the craziest song because it sounds like it was written about COVID, but it was not, in fact was written just a few months earlier. "Bedlamite" is the coda to the album that promises hope: It's gonna be all right. When they did this album Live at Arcosanti and sang this song while the sun rose behind them, four days before the 2020 election and Maynard crooned that it would be all right, I looked at my roommate, and I said, "it really is, isn't it?" And we both got kind of overwhelmed. And then a few days later, it was. Trump lost.

I went into way detail >_> told you I like rambling about music

tagging: @swiftzeldas @emmaswanned @brightnshinythings @mariacallous @ouijawaydidhego