#College Football Spectacular

[wiersema1]

Dutch Lion's 2024 College Football Spectacular

Dutch Lion is back with his annual "College Football Spectacular", the foremost college football preview in all the land. Check out the predictions, stats, photos, and fun including a list of the the greatest coaches in college history.

Dutch Lion’s 2024 College Football Spectacular The greatest cover in the history of Sports Illustrated? Welcome back to football season! We have many changes on the college gridiron this year. It’s the first year of the new 12 team CFP Playoffs. We have more conference realignments. Also, Nick Saban finally retired. That’s a lot for one autumn. Longtime readers of Dutch Lion know that ever…

[unholybacon355]

Kinktober Day 13 - Hirai Momo x M! Reader

Kinktober Masterlist

Momo is hot as hell, there is no doubt about that. She always catches the eye with her spectacular body. Wherever she goes, always someone is turning her head to take a proper look at her. She’s hot and she knows it and embraces it. How could she not know it when is always receiving compliments?. She’s hot as fuck and you love it too.

There always was the discussion about if her big round ass or her large breast was her most desired body part. You always listened to people talking about that in the hallways or in the bathroom. Of course everybody wants to fuck Momo, she’s the it girl of the campus. And you want it too., but she’s out of your league. 

Yeah, she’s a gymnast and you are part of the football team, but she’s still so out of your league. This can’t be the classical sport romance because she’s very popular and no one pays attention to you. Yes you’re on the football team, but you aren’t really playing. You had been benched almost the entire season till today when the injuries of your teammates allowed you to finally jump to the field. 

You were really fine with that, at least touching the field was good for you. Damn you love this sport, but sadly you aren't that good at it. Otherwise you would be on the titular team. But sometimes people get lucky, maybe something moves in the universe to make a poor bastard like you happy once in a while just to keep things balanced. And you were the lucky one today when in the final minute of the game out of pure adrenaline rush you were able to sack the enemy quarterback on their own end zone, practically winning a tied game.

Immediately everybody was shouting your name and rising you to the sky. You were today's heroe. And that leads to where you are now. At the bedroom of someone that you don’t even know, with your pants around your knees and the girls of your dream half naked kneeling in front of you. 

This was one of the many parties to which you were dragged tonight. Of course everybody wants to have the hero at their party, and your captains were shure you that you attended every party around the campus that night. Till you ended up in this house, very drunk, and in some magic way crossing paths with Momo. She was kinda drunk too and for some reason was also very happy to meet the new college heroe. Maybe because beside her almost no one brings joy to this university in sports. Yes, she wasn't just hot but also a champion.

Then things are blurry in your memory. Maybe you were dragged into a drinking game, and maybe you also ended up doing that stupid “Seven minutes in heaven “ game with Momo, you are seriously too drunk to remember if that really happened. But if it happened probably that was what led to this. 

You were kissing Momo in the hallway on the second floor, and touching her in a very inappropriate way, when you kicked a random door and both entered the room, shutting the door behind you. Things quickly escalated but sadly you didn't have a single condom with you. Why would you have one if you aren't getting laid in the first place? So Momo decided to reward you with something special instead. That's why she was on her knees with her torso naked, and spitting on her tits to make them slippery.

At this very moment in your opinion the discussion about Momo’s tiddies versus her ass is finished. Her boobs were by far the biggest you had ever seen in person. They are like twoo fucking ships on the middle of the sea, moving at a discontinuous and not symmetric passe while Momo is spreading her saliva between them. One coming up when the other is coming down at the rhythm of her breath and hands. You were frankly amazed by the size of her breast. 

Momo bites her lower lips looking at you in a sexy but shy way. “I don’t do this with anyone.” And you knew that was true, there isn’t a single rumor about her sleeping with anyone or hooking up at parties. In fact you weren't sure if a sports strat like her was even attending these kinds of parties, and that made you feel even luckier. “But you seem to be nice.” That and also that both of you are very drunk right now. 

Momo wraps her fingers around your shaft stroking you and spreading her saliva over you too, that is until your dick is wet and shiny. You desperately need her to suck you, to feel her warm mouth around your meat, but instead your reward is another. Momo puts your shaft between her monumental tits and uses her hand to push them together. Her boobs are so big that your tip is barely visible over the crack of her cleavage. God, obviously her tits are better than her ass.  

And then the fun begins. Momo uses her hands to move her massive breasts up and down, sending you immediately to heaven. The feeling is amazing, your shaft is surrounded by the soften skiing ever had been. And her boobs are so soft that seem like you’re fucking cotton candy. You feel on the clouds.

“Does it feel good?” All you can elaborate as an answer is a moan because everything feels so amazing. To be honest you haven't had action in a while, so at this point everything should feel amazing. But you know this is different, you know that her tits are casting some kind of spell over you. Otherwise why is your shaft so hard right now? 

You’re praying for this to not be a dream. You're thanking the universe to allow you to make that play and end this night like this, with the girls of your dream stroking your dick with her tits. And Oh God! what a great job she’s doing. Momo’s hand never stops moving her boobs, maintaining your shaft sealed between them and maximizing your pleasure. All you can do is moan and look at her with a freshly discovered passion. 

Momo isn’t just hot as fuck but also so damn beautifull. Her delicate features  always capture your attention, and now seeing her with her mouth open spitting more saliva over her tits to maintain them lubricated,  feels like an extra reward to you. You don’t even want that blowjob anymore, that feels out of please now. It feels like an abuse of your luck to want something more from her, because this is already so amazing.

 Momo is panting with the effort of moving her tits up and down, and even like that she looks beautiful.  She is like an angel with big boobs, but still like an angel. Even with her tongue out to let her saliva drip over her tits she looks so damn beautiful in your eyes. Well, not for nothing she’s the most desired girl on the campus.

You let her do what she wants with your shaft, and obviously she has a lot of control over her body. After all she’s and gymnastic start, she clearly knows how to move her body and what to do with every single one of her muscles, and that includes her big boobs.The waves that her fat tits create over your dick, stimulating you to a new level of pleasure,  is more than you can mange. 

“I-I-I’m… Clo-Clooooseee.” You warn her but all what Momo does is increase the pace of her movement, and pushes her tits even closer together, sending you over the edge of your climax. Your dick spills thick ropes of semen over her breast, covering her entire chest with your white and sticky fluid. Flooding her big tits with your seed and making it even easier for her to milk you using your semen as lubricant too. You shoot your load over her massive boobs covering that beautifull mole on her left tiddie, and even drop your semen over her hard light tea big nipples.

“What a mess we made.” Momo said panting and giggling once she set free your shaft from the warm and soft embrace of her boobs. “Can you find me something to clean myself?” Add while trying to gather your semen with her hands but all what she is doing is just spreading it more over her chest. 

You are still amazed by what just happened. You can’t think straight like if you were in some kind of trance, and without realizing what you are doing you take off your shirt and you give it to her. After a few minutes her tits are clean and you put your shirt on again, now stained with your own milk. You’re still in a trance, still very drunk and in disbelief. 

You're thinking of asking for her number, maybe if you're lucky enough another kiss. But you also think this is already too much. In the end what would you pursue asking for her number? What more could obtain from her a drunk loser that is wearing a shirt stained with his fresh semen? But you still have to do it. If it isn't tonight when again would you have the chance to meet the most desired girl on the campus? Maybe the hotter and more desired girl in the entire city you correct yourself.

[sj-ficrecs]

fic rec 16!

SO! i haven’t been reading fic in a long time bc i’ve been reading books BUT, discovered this fic rec in my drafts from 2022 lol oops!

This is purely a fic rec blog, always reblogging fics I enjoy. usually Bucky x reader, sometimes Steve x reader, Chris Beck x reader, etc. So check out more I’ve reblogged on this page. :)

PREVIOUS FIC RECS HERE! // Q & A

Bucky x reader:

A Correspondence of Obligations by @pellucid-constellations prince!Bucky x princess!reader

“ Obedience, duty, pristine smiles—raised as the princess of an oppressive kingdom, you knew nothing else. Your father signed your life away at the ripe age of five, black ink bleeding into a contract between nations, fate cemented with the flick of a quill. So when the time came to fulfill the promises you were too young to make, you expected much of the same in the land of Brookshire. But Prince James had other plans, as did the enemies looming outside the castle walls.”

Sky Full of Song by @wkemeup pirate!Bucky x pirate/siren!reader

“Despite the bitter resentment of the crew, you found a home on Captain Barnes’ ship; on the ocean where you belonged, at the side of a captain you swore loyalty and heart to. But when course is plotted for a legendary island, the secret that has kept you alive for years is threatened to be revealed.”

Starting Gate by @navybrat817 motocross!Bucky x reader

“You attract the attention of your coworker's friend who just happens to be a handsome racer who plays for keeps.”

Oath by @softlybarnes (part of the Sugar series but can be reader alone) 40s Bucky x reader

“Bucky finally proposes to Y/N.”

Awake My Soul by @foreverindreamlandd​ Bucky x reader (Zombie apocalypse au)

“It’s been five years since zombies first started walking the Earth, destroying anything and everything in their wake. Now, in this apocalyptic world, fighting for survival comes as naturally as breathing. The one thing you’ve learned ever since they arrived, though, is that the living can be so much more dangerous than the undead. When you stumble across two young, scared boys lost in the woods and being chased by walkers, you go against your better judgment and help them to safety. Little did you know that helping them would lead you to Bucky - an angry, grumpy, distrusting member of the camp Shield. Bucky has zero interest in having you enter his life. He’s been hurt before and lost too many people to risk experiencing that kind of pain again, and he knows that there are secrets you aren’t telling the group. Yet, when push comes to shove, and you’re put at risk, he’ll stop at nothing to keep you safe.”

No Such Thing by @sanguineterrain college athlete!Bucky x reader

“You’ve been assigned to write a column for your school paper on the team’s spectacular running back. You don’t care very much for your university’s football team; you just can’t understand the hype, okay? Turns out your distaste for football bigheads was exactly on point: James Barnes is insufferable.”

Appointments by @buckycuddlebuddy Bucky x reader

“bucky barnes, finally being able to live freely in 21st century, accidentally gets a fuck buddy and starts to rediscover himself. the only weird thing about this situation is that you have to make an appointment to get railed by him.”

Recipe for Disaster by @seventven dad’s best friend!Bucky x reader

“your dad’s best friend bucky knows you have a crush on him. your parents invite him to join your family for the annual winter vacation”

In the Embers by @foreverindreamlandd Firefighter!Bucky x Fem!Plus Size!Adopted Rogers!Reader

“Bucky Barnes. The boy next door. Your brother’s best friend. The guy you’ve been in love with for as long as you can remember. Unrequited, that is, seeing that he only thinks of you as a sister (at least, that’s what you always thought). It’s been about a decade since you’ve returned home and reunited with the boy - now man - with stunning blue eyes and a smile that still puts a million butterflies in your stomach. You never expected to come back, thinking that you’d spend the rest of your life as a famous artist in Los Angeles with your boyfriend/manager. But things change, life gets messy, and now you’re back in your childhood bedroom living with your mom and working at the townie bar to make ends meet while you try to figure out what the hell to do next. The one thing that hasn’t changed? Bucky Barnes is still the boy next door, and there’s no running from him this time.”

Love in Four Acts by @chouettedubois neighbor MCU Bucky x nurse!reader

“You’re a nurse living in Brooklyn. You’ve got a crush on your next door neighbour who doesn’t seem to know you exist. One day his cat finds its way into your apartment, forcing you both to finally meet. That’s when you learn that he’s James Buchanan Barnes, ex-Winter Soldier. Well, there goes your chances. Or maybe getting close to a superhero isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds.”

Plaything part one + two by @captain-buckyyy virgin!Bucky x reader

“bucky’s innocence is just too much for you to resist”

calamitous love series by @classylo princess!reader x commoner!bucky

“Reader is a modern princess under immense pressure to marry before she takes the crown, she choose her Prince Charming four years ago… but he didn’t choose her back. He left her with a broken heart and her kingdom to rule alone. Four years later, reader is in an arranged engagement with a man who she can see herself loving… one day… everything seems to be falling into place until her original prince shows up at her engagement party determined to win her back before her wedding day.”

Not Even a Little by @intrepidacious roommate!Bucky x reader, modern au

“The problem of living with Bucky is that he makes it impossible not to fall in love with him. Even though you could list several hundred reasons why it’s a bad idea. And you have.”

Followed You by @cwbucky Bucky x reader

“You meet this guy named Bucky through Instagram. Even though neither of you knows what the other person looks like, you two immediately connect. Things get complicated when you start your new job at Stark Industries and you catch a glimpse of the handsome Sergeant Barnes.”

Matched by @nony-bear Alpha!Bucky x omega!reader

“Bucky Barnes always dreamed of settling down with a mate but after decades of trauma leaving him a grumpy old man with a robotic arm he’s convinced no one could love an alpha like him. Begrudgingly he follows his therapist advice and enrolls in the Swan Program a mate matching program offered but the new aged bio-tech company Mate-Tech”

Body Talk by @boxofbonesfic trainer!Bucky x plus size!reader

“You’re determined to come out of this breakup a better you, but Bucky likes the you you are.”

King in Your Story by @sinner-as-saint viking!Bucky x princess!reader

“Everyone in your father’s Kingdom knows that the Vikings often raid the castle’s warehouses. They take anything they want. Food, gold, weapons. Although they never seem to hurt your subjects. But you had had enough. Given your training, and your need to defend your Kingdom, your father agrees to let you trap the Vikings and bring them in for negotiation because this habit of theirs needs to be stopped. You hated the Vikings, and you thought you always would. Until the moment you met a pair of blue eyes which made your world stand still. Bucky was the Chief of his people; muscular, rough and tumble, and arrogant. Not to mention a shameless flirt, and he got on your nerves the most. But you knew it from the very day you laid eyes on his very handsome face that no matter how hard you tried, some part of you couldn’t fully hate him, nor resist him - even if he was the rival.”

Oh Baby, Oh Baby by @tooearlyforthis Bucky x reader

“As a new recruit, y/n isn’t allowed to go on all the missions yet. To make matters worse, they left behind another, someone that she had despised ever since she first stepped foot in the compound - James Buchanan Barnes.”

Before You by @m4tthewmurd0ck prince!Bucky x baker!reader

reader is a baker who happens to work at a shop the royals enjoy getting baked goods from :)

Steve Rogers x reader:

Rising Tide by @pellucid-constellations surfer!Steve x reader

“A relationship built up from the ocean floor, you and Steve had lifetime worth of memories—most best friends did. But things were beginning to change, unspoken feelings creating a rift that cast a shadow over the bond you called home. Unfortunately for you, rip currents are often hardest to spot in the dark”

[postapocalypticparenting]

Oh my G-d I'm such a marching band snob, help me. 🤣

[buckrecs]

i wanted to request hockey player!bucky au or like any kinda sport but preferably hockey or baseball because i’ve only read like 3 fics about that AU but im obsessed with it

Athlete!Bucky

masterlist | req masterlist

I didn’t put any boxer bucky fics btw ! thinking about making a list just for it..

ONESHOT

My Everyday by @pellucid-constellations

Bucky Barnes was aggressive, annoying, and—worst of all—a hockey player. Not your type. At all. But, unfortunately, your roommate.

Touchdown by @buckyseternal

you decide to reward your boyfriend after he scores the winning touchdown.

A Little Superstitious by @jadedvibes

The school's football team needs a win and a certain blue-eyed player could use a kiss for good luck to help make that happen.

hail mary by @barnesafterglow

when you start sneaking around with your brother's best friend, it's only a matter of time until you get caught

Don’t End Today by @subwaysurf45

The day that you happily upgraded you from tutor to girlfriend all because of a few nice words.

Flirting and Football by @lovelybarnes

Bucky barnes and a college au where reader is the only one who isn’t interested in him basically

Anger Issues by @hailhydra920

You’re the only one who can calm Bucky down.

fair catch by @endless-summer-soldier

Y/N joins the football team to prove a point and the last thing Bucky expected out of the season was to fall for the new kicker

SERIES

For the Love of the Game by @pellucid-constellations

Bucky Barnes was a menace. NYU’s top baseball player, he was used to girls falling at his feet and could smooth talk his way out of just about anything. You hated him. He couldn’t figure out why. So when the novelty of weekend parties and quick hookups finally wore off—and his feelings for you began to grow—he made it his mission to fix it.

No Such Thing by @sanguineterrain

You’ve been assigned to write a column for your school paper on the team’s spectacular running back. You don’t care very much for your university’s football team; you just can’t understand the hype, okay? Turns out your distaste for football bigheads was exactly on point: James Barnes is insufferable.

Out Of Bounds by @foreverindreamlandd

The chaos fic that was supposed to be a one shot inspired by me binge-watching Ted Lasso and now there’s a masterlist lmao. Enjoy the ride!

ice ice baby by @endless-summer-soldier

Bucky is a college hockey player, Y/N is a figure skater without a partner. What's happens when these two opposites start sharing the ice...

Quarterback!Bucky x Assistant!Reader by @angrythingstarlight

ice ice baby by @endless-summer-soldier

Bucky is a college hockey player, Y/N is a figure skater without a partner. What's happens when these two opposites start sharing the ice...

[sitp-recs]

Heyyy! Absolutely love your recs, your blog is literally my go to any time I feel like reading something💕

I was wondering if you know any (american) college!au Drarry fic? even better if it includes fraternities ehehehe

Hi anon, I’m so happy to hear that! Life is pretty hectic and I haven’t been around (or reading) much, but I expect things to calm down after summer so I hope you continue enjoying the blog 😊 I got a couple college/university AUs to rec although most are set in the UK. Enjoy!

The Anti Harry by @dracogotgame (G, 2k)

Harry has his eye on the new Fresher. The new Fresher has it in for Harry.

No Bones About It by @peachpety (T, 5k)

To remain eligible to play football for Hogwarts University, Harry needs to pass his gen bio exam. Too bad he chose the course based on the hotness of the TA and not the leniency of the professor. With the help of his friends and a Magic 8 Ball, Harry seeks tutoring from Draco Malfoy, Hot TA. Cue: chance encounters, flirting in library nooks, and prophecies fulfilled.

A Christmas Happenstance by Only_1_Truth (E, 5k)

The Hogwarts School for the Gifted and Supernatural had classes year-round, but the dormitories emptied out regularly on holidays as if the students were suddenly becoming allergic to the walls. Both humans and non-humans mingled freely in the surrounding town of Hogsmeade. Draco Malfoy, however, isn't feeling in the mood after a rather spectacular break-up.

Kissing Boys by JulietsEmoPhase (E, 6k)

Harry knows his dorm mate has a secret that's eating him up inside. One night he finally decides to try and help. Muggle college roommate AU. Smut.

Anyone But Him by RuArcher (E, 19k)

Harry thought going to a Muggle university would be the perfect opportunity for a new start. He hadn’t counted on having Draco Malfoy as a flatmate.

Faint Indirections by ignatiustrout (T, 30k)

Draco Malfoy is the last person Harry expects to turn up in Boston, Massachussetts. But now he's here, and he won't stop requesting books from the library where Harry works.

Ynys Afallach (I Will Give My Love An Apple) by Femme and noeon (E, 42k)

Professor Waverley Root's tutorial in the history of magical food is something of a legend at Flamel College. Draco Malfoy wants to apply it to his work in sustainable wizarding agriculture. Harry Potter's taking it for his interest in historical overlap between the magical and Muggle worlds in the West Country. When Root pairs them together, the fireworks (and the apples!) fly.

The Roommate by @romaine2424 (M, 42k)

After one year in Azkaban, and two years of home arrest, Draco is going off to college. Myrrdin College is Oxford’s magical college, where one Harry Potter is currently attending. Both are going for their teaching certificates with Draco specialising in Potions and Harry in Defence Against the Dark Arts.

Our Objective Remains Unchanged by @citrusses (E, 46k)

Harry Potter, returning member of the Oxford University Boat Club, has two goals for the spring of 2005: beat Cambridge, and beat Draco Malfoy. Perhaps not in that order.

Yours to Keep by dracoismytrashson (E, 135k)

Some people think concepts like fate and destiny are romantic, but for Harry Potter, fate has always meant one thing: a swift kick in the arse. Why else would he cross an ocean to New York and enroll in Muggle university only to find Draco Malfoy living two doors down the hall? The universe and its twisted sense of humor can fuck right off.

[pleasantglitterflower]

Power Couple (Joe Burrow x Simone Biles)

Joe was very excited to land in Paris, after all he was going to surprise his girlfriend, who is simply Simone Biles. Simone didn't know, but I was already going to surprise her and was going to watch her performance in the final of the artistic gymnastics vaults at the Olympics.

  Joe was very sorry about not being able to accompany Simone in person at the Paris Olympics, as the training camp period before the NFL preseason would be taking place at the same time, and this season will be decisive for Joe, after months of treating a serious hand injury.

Simone was super understanding and understood the fact that Joe couldn't be in Paris, as he also needed to focus on his preparation to return to playing at a high level. The gymnast was like a compass for Joe's recovery, for the quarterback, if it weren't for Simone supporting and encouraging him, his recovery wouldn't have been so successful.

Joe did not give up and spoke with the Bengals board and coaching staff to get permission to travel to Paris, in return he would do extra training when he returned. Simone had no idea that her boyfriend was going to surprise her, Joe already had everything planned with the US artistic gymnastics team and Jade Carey, one of the American gymnasts competing in the Olympic Games, wished one day to have a boyfriend like Joe.

Bercy Arena - August 3,2024

The day of the competition finally arrived and Joe was very nervous. Although he was not very religious, he kept praying silently, asking the gods of gymnastics that Simone would perform her lifts very well and that no adversity would befall her.

First came the men's artistic gymnastics performance, and with each movement, he found it fascinating how those men executed their jumps with perfection. Despite knowing his whole life that he wanted to play football, he had always admired the entire concept of artistic gymnastics, so much so that whenever he had a break from a game, during his time at LSU, he would always go and watch the performances of the college's women's gymnastics team, led by Olivia Dunne. He laughed, thinking that if it were him trying to do one of those jumps, he would probably have broken all his bones. If you're going to get hurt, you might as well do it at the intensity of football.

The men's performance ended and finally the women's vault solo performance arrived. The main favorites for the gold medal were Simone and Rebeca Andrade, who are the two main references in artistic gymnastics today. Simone was the fourth gymnast to perform and her performance left no doubt that the gold medal was hers. She landed the vault that bears her name, the Biles II, and despite taking a 0.1 penalty for stepping off the jump, she received a spectacular 15.700 - 6.400 for the start score, 9.400 for the execution and -0.100 penalty.

Burrow couldn't contain himself and celebrated a lot when she performed Biles II, he was very happy and excited. On her second vault, Biles went for a very well-executed Cheng, which earned her a score of 14.900 - 5.600 for difficulty and 9.300 for execution. With that, she had an average of 15.300. Joe screamed so much, he probably wasn't as happy with the Bengals' victories as he was with Biles's jumps.

The other performances took place and then they waited for the results, and finally it became official: Simone Biles was the vault solo champion and broke another record. Joe couldn't control his emotions and cried with joy, he saw how hard Simone was on herself and how intensely she trained, it's always special when hard work is rewarded. He celebrated happily with other American fans, who fortunately, when they saw that Joe was very focused on watching the performance, didn't ask him for photos and autographs, because for those present there, he was a fan like any other.

Simone, Rebeca Andrade and Jade Carey took their places on the podium, respectively, and Joe was smiling very proud of his beloved. After all the formal celebrations, Simone began to interact with some fans, until she had an unexpected surprise, with Joe going to her and hugging her tightly. —Joe, I can't believe you actually came - Biles says shocked to see her man face to face with her

-I wouldn't miss the chance to see you win eye to eye my love, in person it's much better, the same way when you go see my games - Joe speaks, giving her a little kiss afterwards.

-I'm so happy you came my love, but what about training and the team?

-Honey, they really understood how important the Olympics are and allowed me to be here, but let's not talk about that, today is all about you and we have to celebrate, especially because the whole team is watching the competitions right now.

-I love you so much Joe, thank you so much for always being with me and supporting me in everything - she kisses the quarterback

-I am lucky enough to have a woman like you in my life Simone, you are so important in my life that if it weren't for you, I would be very lost, I love you forever - they give a movie kiss to the delight of everyone present in that gym, just proving that the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are already in history as one of the most iconic Olympics of all time.

[azquine]

Randomly thinking about the prospect of an Avatar: the Last Airbender and Community crossover where everything is pretty much the same, but there is bending.

I don't think anyone would be spectacular, considering that this would be a community college, and there is not much need to weaponise bending here.

Honestly I think Jeff would absolutely have very weak bending that he never bothers to use. In fact, I think he'd prefer the idea of being a non-bender than someone with such weak bending, so that's what he pretends to be. That way he can come across as someone who has entirely gotten along without bending, who doesn't need it. I think he would have inherited the same element as his father, and his mother has a different element to him. Either way, his parents were far more proficient at bending than himself, which causes a little more insecurity to cover up. As for which element? I'm not sure, I could be swayed towards any. Maybe fire?

Abed is 100% a water bender to me, and I think he'd be pretty good. I can imagine him practicing alone here and there as something to focus on in his lonely teen years. He's well versed in using it for basic utilitarian tasks in the Falafel restaurant, and he's spent some hours moving little water figures in recreations of movie scenes. I can also see him finding a book to teach himself healing from. It's a way to be useful, needed. A way to protect himself and keep himself out of the doctors office. Bending is a pretty private thing for him though, he doesn't necessarily like to show it off. For most of the first year the group assumes him to be a non-bender as he never mentions it, up until one day when someone asks if he can fetch their water bottle from the other side of the room, and Abed casually sends it flying into his hand with no explanation. He's not really used to using his bending on others, so he doesn't really have any combative capabilities, his father always looked down on the idea of using something so spiritual to harm others. It can get pretty tricky when he's overwhelmed though, as he has a habit of accidentally freezing any water around him. The room was ice cold during the claymation episode. Troy has a habit of always making sure he has a water bottle, something to have on hand for Abed if he needs, and a literal temperature gauge for if he's okay.

Shirley is absolutely an earth bender, and while she mostly uses it for catching falling children and items in a hectic household, she also has the best fighting capability. She can and has hit a motherfucker with a rock in her less patient days. Other common uses are to quite literally put a wall between her and someone who has offended her, or to stop someone from walking away from her mind lecture by snagging their foot. It's one of the few tools of power she actually has, and so she keeps a tight fist on it.

Peirce is a Firebender from a long line of 'pure blooded' Firebenders. He boasts a lot about his skill, and he is pretty good at making flashy displays, but there is more light than heat. He also has no real control over those big flames, so it's just as well that his fire is toothless.

Britta is also a non-bender, though she tries to practice the meditative practices of each element. This is something Jeff sneers upon, as 'why would you bother doing the boring stuff for elements you can't even bend?'. I'm assuming she has at least some Airbender lineage in her family that she's pretty proud of, though probably not her parents themselves.

Troy I'm not entirely sure of, again I could be swayed by any of them. I mean, AIR conditioning, fire has to do with temperature, earth has metal bending for pipes, water is what makes air conditioning and plumbing work. It could be any. Either way, it's something that he has a rather natural grip of rather than something he has to study or meditate on. It's something that intuitively assists in whatever he's doing, like football or repair. I don't think he does bending for its own sake very often, it's more something supplemental for other activities.

Annie naturally has a lot of trouble with the more intuitive and spiritual aspects of bending. Her brain fires off thoughts too quickly to clear it and focus on the elements. But she is a quick student for the more skill based aspects of bending, of what hand placements and movement speeds she should be doing. As for which element, I'm leaning towards water, though I can see fire also working. Something changeable and emotional, though it's hard for her to lean into that.

Idk, let me know if you have any thoughts. I'd love to talk about this!

[curious-observers-world]

Top 10 places where we spent new year eve

1. France (Paris)

Paris is the capital city of France (city of light).

In Paris, New Year’s Eve is celebrated at midnight with lively parties, festive meals, and champagne toasts. Thousands gather on the Champs-Élysées for the countdown, while others enjoy the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling lights. The city is filled with excitement as both locals and visitors celebrate the arrival of the new year.

https://youtube.com/shorts/vfvOanERFp0?si=DjTMkzZqbpXspOXQ

2.Sydney (Australia)

In Sydney, New Year's Eve is marked at midnight with a world-famous fireworks display over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Crowds gather around the harbor to watch the show, while others enjoy parties and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere as both locals and tourists celebrate the new year.

https://youtube.com/shorts/bZ5nExRcou0?si=bmaVcMDuMzYp_xJL

3. Malta

In Malta, New Year's Eve is celebrated at midnight with vibrant parties, fireworks, and live music, especially in Valletta and Sliema. Locals and tourists gather to enjoy festivities, raise a toast at midnight, and continue celebrating into the early hours.

https://youtu.be/D1uDlqUKxyM?si=dlTY95n8PtlKPncu

4.Norway

New Year's Eve is celebrated at midnight with fireworks, parties, and family gatherings. Cities like Oslo and Bergen feature spectacular firework displays, while people enjoy traditional foods and festivities with loved ones, welcoming the new year with excitement.

https://youtu.be/Kl3Y4EB26ow?si=ccFDymP0q6v_sgRL

5. Spain

In Spain, New Year's Eve is celebrated at midnight with the tradition of eating 12 grapes—one for each stroke of the clock at midnight. This is believed to bring good luck for each month of the coming year.

https://youtube.com/shorts/CG_OgkT9WH8?si=XHILlCCzhd-u0mlI

6. Tokyo

In Tokyo, New Year's Eve is marked with a quieter, more reflective tone. Many people visit temples and shrines, such as Meiji Shrine, to pray for good fortune in the coming year.

https://youtube.com/shorts/9jQJILmggAM?si=RZmhyRhPujuz0ZkI

https://youtube.com/shorts/DrIPpUhZEnU?si=LRnhDA4Zel3WiKCg

7.Dubai

Dubai offers extravagant New Year celebrations, featuring spectacular fireworks at landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Atlantis The Palm. Luxurious gala dinners, vibrant beach parties, desert safaris, and yacht cruises provide unique ways to celebrate. Shopping at Dubai Mall, family-friendly fun at Global Village, and casual gatherings at public spaces like Dubai Creek and Marina add to the festive atmosphere, making it a celebration for everyone.

https://youtube.com/shorts/EwdsbyOjy2o?si=atB579J3PRUVg7-C

https://youtu.be/jmg0y4XMMSc?si=9ug3VEHLIm1g9V5r

https://youtube.com/watch?v=OqDcgnmLkEY&feature=shared

8. America

New Year's celebrations in America include iconic events like the Times Square Ball Drop and fireworks displays. People celebrate with parties, music, and dancing, while many make New Year’s resolutions. Parades, college football bowl games, and the Midnight Kiss add to the festivities. New Year’s Day is a time for family, relaxation, and comforting meals, symbolizing a fresh start filled with reflection, joy, and new beginnings.

https://youtu.be/FuaPfEoISHI?si=8lvZXXpdZyua5yu3

https://youtu.be/_1yOLCBHQ_w?si=DlodenpcLZ1C1Ht3

https://youtube.com/shorts/9vd-nLj2qY0?si=tNGn3RMDL4lny3Yj

9. Thailand

New Year's in Thailand blends traditional and modern celebrations, including water blessings at temples, Buddhist chanting, and family gatherings. Modern festivities feature the Bangkok Countdown, beach parties in Phuket, and lively street parties in areas like Khao San Road. Unique events like the Loy Krathong lantern festival and Songkran Water Festival add cultural richness. Visitors should book accommodations early, respect local customs, stay safe, and learn basic Thai phrases to fully enjoy the celebrations. KO

https://youtu.be/60TYVnsGrE0?si=OfFd3kIZcM2DRHM5

10. Brazil

In Brazil, New Year’s Eve, or Réveillon, is a lively celebration marked by wearing white for peace and good luck. People gather at Rio's Copacabana Beach to enjoy fireworks, samba music, and vibrant parties. Traditions include offering flowers to Yemanjá, eating lentils for prosperity, and jumping over seven waves for luck. As midnight strikes, champagne toasts and countdowns are shared, creating a joyful mix of family gatherings, beach parties, and religious rituals, all symbolizing renewal and hope for the new year.

https://youtu.be/DHr0W-w8zG8?si=IGIQPec152kpF42e

[wiersema1]

Dutch Lion's 2023 "Midseason" College Football (Un)Spectacular

Dutch Lion's 2023 "Midseason" College Football (Un)Spectacular is finally here! Read this now!

Dutch Lion’s 2023 “Midseason” College (Un)Spectacular I know what you’re thinking…. where has this Preview been hiding? It’s been marinating in the beautiful mind of our author, the Dutch Lion. For whatever reason, we’ve not been able to blast it all out there. It’s like verbal constipation, if you will. I won’t, but thanks for asking. As our longtime readers already know, Dutch Lion’s…

[forkanna]

NOTE: Well, I can't even say what happened, other than that my mental state has been trash. Not that I'm unhappy; I just have little creative drive of late. Trying to get back to work, though, and hopefully someone will enjoy the update.

CHAPTER THREE

Around the time Veronica was exiting her luxury vehicle, Betty was climbing out of her clunky old Beetle. She loved that car - and it wasn't just because it was still her first car, or that it was sunshine yellow like her personality, or that she had forged so many good memories inside its cramped confines.

She was also proud of how she had managed to keep it running for the past year, almost entirely on her own. While Veronica and Reggie had the money to take their cars into the shop when any little thing went wrong, or just get a new one, Betty was distinctly under the cut-off line for Middle Class; her parents told her when they helped her get the car that she would have to be the one to find the money for any repairs, because they could barely maintain the upkeep on their own Studebaker. Therefore, she had no choice but to take her passing interest in how cars worked and make it a life skill. Riverdale High did offer an auto shop class, and that went a long way toward teaching her what she needed to know - and her dad had taught her enough of the rest that she could manage to figure out everything else. By now, she had done almost as much work on Archie's old Mustang as she had on her own mode of transport, and kept both of them purring like kittens.

Not that she wanted to make it into a profession. No, Betty's heart would always belong to the written word. Still, maybe when she finished college and started her life as an aspiring author, she could work as a mechanic on the side to help keep the lights on.

Betty was startled out of her thoughts by seeing Archie make a spectacular play, spiking the ball in the end zone and hooting and hollering with his teammates. It may have just been practice, but Betty smiled as she leaned her elbows against the railing on top of the chain link fence, watching him like a hawk as he celebrated. He was honestly her oldest and dearest friend, and when he was happy, she was happy. Part of her missed cheering him on in a more official capacity - but she was fine with the way things had turned out.

Then she heard some hooping and hollering from behind her, and I found herself completely distracted. It wasn't so much that someone else was cheering, but the loud, brash tone of the one doing the celebrating.

"WHOOO! GO, ANDY!"

Cheryl.

Looking between Archie out on the field and the stands, she could see both of the redheads had eyes for no one but each other. Archie looked like such an All-American Boy Scout in his football uniform, grass stains covering the front of the jersey and sweat running down his temples, beaming up at her as if she were the light of his life. And Cheryl's little green dress left nothing to the imagination, hugging her voluptuous curves as she whooped and bounced up and down - and Betty found she had to turn away for a second.

Which only frustrated her further. She knew her parents had raised her conservatively, and some of her friends had always teased her a little about that. But was she really such a shrinking violet that she couldn't even handle the sight of a pair of breasts jiggling without needing to blush?

"What's your problem, Townie?"

Betty was shocked to find Cheryl was standing right next to her. She yelped and tried to jump backward - except there was no backward to jump to. Instead, she just felt the back pockets of her jeans cutting into her behind due to pressing right up against the fence. She was trapped.

"Huh?"

"You're acting like I'm Medusa," Cheryl shot at her with a confident grin. "Can't look at me without turning to stone, hmm? Not that I blame you; I am pretty stunning."

Betty's mouth flapped for a few seconds. It was Cheryl laughing at her that made her clear her throat and find her voice again. "I'm fine. I just had something in my eye."

"Like my gorgeous features?" When Betty started to shake her head, she rolled her eyes. "Give it up, Daisy Mae. I saw you checking me out before that, and you couldn't stop almost-glancing at me afterward."

"Wh- excuse me? Wait, what do you mean, 'checking you out'? In what way?"

Rolling her emerald eyes, Cheryl snapped, "What, is this a put on? What other way is there to check somebody out? You're playing for the softball team."

Betty wasn't entirely sure what was going on, but she definitely didn't like the way the rich girl said that. "I… well, yeah, I am. I'm their best pitcher."

"Oh my God." 

"What?"

"Nevermind. Don't even worry about it; it's not like I care anyway." She reached out and patted Betty's cheek, and didn't even react when the blonde flinched. "You just keep being oblivious, sugar. It'll catch up to you someday. For now, why don't you try acting like less of a square around me? You'd be surprised what a difference it makes."

Betty scowled at the antiquated insult. "Square?!"

"And don't interfere with me watching Andy practice anymore," she commanded as she turned and walked back up the bleachers, hips swishing all the while. "That's our time, for just the two of us. Go play in a sandbox somewhere, Li'l Orphan Annie."

Every part of Betty's inner being seemed to shrink two sizes. What was she supposed to do? Cheryl had just cut her to ribbons and she hadn't been able to do anything about it; she couldn't even form one rebuttal. Every single one of her responses had been completely pathetic.

"Hey!" One of the cheerleaders called out to her as she stomped away. She actually had to run after her before she got too far away to catch. "Betty, wait!"

Betty swallowed hard and looked over the fence at her, then sighed, "Oh, hi, Midge. What's, uh, what's up?"

"I was watching that happen," the cheerleader continued a little breathlessly, running her fingers through her dark pixie cut. "What did you say to her?"

"Nothing! I just… um…" Betty hated that she was still blushing. She hated that even now that her reaction had been called out, there seemed to be nothing she could do to bring herself under control.

"Just what?" When she got no answer, Midge sighed and reached over the fence to rest her hand on Betty's shoulder. "Listen. I know we haven't talked much since you quit the squad, and I'm always going out with Moose. But you know I'm here for you, right?"

Betty felt helpless to do anything but glance back over at where Cheryl was still smirking at her, and where Nancy had broken off from the rest of the squad to start toward them. This whole thing was getting more and more conspicuous. So she finally just whispered, "Yeah, thanks," and ran off as quickly as she could.

  ~ o ~

  Problem was, Betty didn't know where else to turn. She would have considered speaking to either of her former Squad mates - except that Cheryl had been there. Once upon a time, she would have turned to Archie, but everything was so complicated with that now. Her parents were out - they would never understand this. And Veronica…

She didn't even want to think about Veronica. That pampered little princess never had a problem like this, she was reasonably certain.

"Uhhh… back so soon?"

Betty hurriedly wiped her eyes when she realized the journalism classroom wasn't empty. Tomoko had been hunched so low over her keyboard that she couldn't even see her over the back of her chair. "Oh, I… hey."

"Burning the midnight oil, as well? I can relate. This story about school lunches might seem like a puff piece, but I think I found an angle that can… can make it- Betty, are you all right?"

What else could she do but break down and tell her everything? She might not have been terribly close with Tomoko but she found that all of her defenses have been so depleted by now that she couldn't fight it anymore. All of the tears and all of the conflict within her heart just burst forth, and all she could do was try to control how fast and hard it erupted.

The thing that shocked her was when she heard herself say words she didn't even know had been inside her: "It's been this way for two years!"

"Two years?" Tomoko asked in mild surprise as she handed her another kleenex. By this point, they were seated on the little couch in the corner of the classroom, and Tomoko had been petting her back to help soothe her. "But I thought you didn't know Cheryl until she moved here."

"No, I… I just meant…" What did she mean? Betty blew her nose and wiped her eyes to give herself time to reflect. "I meant I've b-been noticing these feelings trying to show up that long. But it's never been, like… I don't know. Cheryl saying that made me think about it, and now I don't like what I'm thinking."

Her fellow reporter nodded a few times, rubbing her free hand up and down along her own thigh through her leggings. Just a nervous habit while considering her words. "Liz… do you feel up to a critical opinion? Or do you prefer support and for me to keep my opinions to myself?"

Still thrown off by being called "Liz", Betty blinked a few times before she said, "Um… I guess that depends. Opinions about me, or about Cheryl? Because I don't think I'm-"

"Message received," she cut her off immediately, closing her deep brown eyes for a moment as she took a breath, then opened them again as her hand came to a stop on Betty's shoulder. "Cheryl really messed with you. That much is clear, even without you telling me details. Why don't you tell me what really bothered you?"

"I… the whole thing, Tomoko. What do you mean? She was being so cruel!"

"Ehhh…" When Betty looked thunderstruck, she held up her other hand to forestall her. "Listen, she was clearly provoking you on purpose, but what did she really say that was so unkind? That you like women?"

"Well… yeah!"

"And that would be… bad?"

"Well, not… I didn't mean…" Betty frowned down at her lap. "I know it sounds bad, but I promise, I'm not like that. I just don't think I could be… like that . Y'know?"

"Actually, I do know. And I know that attitude is very common, and it can make admitting something like this to yourself very difficult."

"I don't have anything against people like that, I promise. But me? I like boys! I've never had any desire to… to try anything different, or be any different. I really haven't."

Tomoko was still watching her like a hawk, and Betty found herself wishing that she wouldn't. "Okay."

"Okay?"

"Well, you told me you didn't want to hear my opinions about you, so I'll leave it at that."

"…You think I really could be like that. Don't you?" Tomoko shrugged, and Betty shivered all over. "Oh my God. Just because I looked at Cheryl's boobs for more than one second?"

"No, because you had to look away. And because you can't even say the word , Liz - you keep saying ‘like that’. There's a lot of fear lurking there. Why would you be afraid if there was nothing to be afraid of?" She shrugged and withdrew, folding her hands neatly in her lap. "Not that you really need to be scared of this, since it's not something negative… but I get it. It's scary to be different, to have to accept that you aren't just a blonde, blue-eyed girl next door. Which you might be. But if you weren't, you would have to challenge a lot of your perceptions. Anyone would be at least a little bit nervous."

This was overwhelming for poor Elizabeth Cooper. She could feel herself breathing faster, more shallow, panic trying to settle into the middle of her chest. Tomoko reached out as if she were about to comfort her - but she shot to her feet, out of her friend's reach.

"I, uh… I just remembered, I need to get home. It will be dinner soon." She swallowed to coat her dry throat before she said, "It's been… interesting, I guess? I don't know. See you."

"Liz…" But Tomoko seemed to rethink what she had been about to say and simply said, "Okay. Just try not to be too hard on yourself. See you later."

"Yeah."

Only once she had achieved the safety of her little yellow Beetle did Betty break down again. She knew someone might see her crying but it was really the best she could do; she just kept it short before she started the engine and drove off, fighting to keep her brain from thinking too much. Right now, her thoughts were the enemy, and she didn't want to imagine what would happen if she lost this battle.

[superfandomcorp]

My Top 15 Best Series 2023 (part II)

10. Platonic

An excellent "non-romantic" comedy in which its protagonists have a great time rediscovering their lost friendship. Very sharp humor, somewhat far-fetched plots, and an exploration of adult friendship that fully embraces the "buddy" subgenre to give us a great time.

9. Bodies- Cadavers

Dark is one of Netflix's most iconic and influential series, and Cadavers is its most faithful and interesting approach. Inspired by a DC comic book, it tells the threat experienced by several investigators when they discover the body of the same man murdered in different decades.

8. Nolly

With Davies' usual style, it is a festive, benevolent, and emotional vindication of his figure, with Bonham Carter absolutely spectacular in her performance.

7. One Piece

Much was feared about the adaptation of the most popular manga of all time, but One Piece, on Netflix, has conquered both fans and critics, and has also become one of the biggest audience phenomenons of the year.

6. Gen V

A great and enjoyable expansion of Ennis and Robertson's despicable heroes universe... this time with a college and dark twist. The spin-off of 'The Boys' delivers exactly what it promises. And what is promised and delivered is exactly what we want.

5. Mrs. Davis

If someone had told me before its premiere that this crazy series would be among the best of what has been released this year, I wouldn't have believed it. And it is precisely that campy factor that makes us enjoy jumping from one crazy twist to another, exploring inevitability.

4. Blue Lights

Undoubtedly, this is one of the best police series of recent years. An exploration of the streets of Belfast that fantastically handles the intensity in building danger moments in the lives of these recruitments in the probation period.

3. 30 Monedas (30 Coins)

The series sponsored by HBO Max is a crazed role-playing game where anything can happen. There are no limits to imagination or narrative constraints; plot twists prevail, surprises abound, and delirium ensues in pursuit of entertainment. Along the way, inevitably, a large number of enemies must be eliminated to reach the final villain, including unpredictable monsters and creatures. The whole package also includes extraterrestrial technology in a mind-boggling climax that sets the bar very high for the continuation of the tribulations of the brave Father Vergara and the troubled inhabitants of Pedraza.

2. Succession

The most remarkable thing about Succession is that, although the children are almost as detestable as the father, each viewer has their favorite: the characters have such complex psychological depth that the series manages to make the progress of any of them be celebrated as if it were a football match. And that's why the definition in the last episode was a masterstroke that left no one indifferent.

1. The Last of Us

The worldwide phenomenon of 2023 is the excellent adaptation of the video game of the same name. Although it is inevitable to think of other post-apocalyptic television dramas like 'The Walking Dead', with which it shares certain themes, the journey of Joel and Ellie is absolutely awe-inspiring.

[coffyao]

..𝔒𝔥? 𝔜𝔬𝔲 𝔩𝔦𝔨𝔢 𝔪𝔢? | 𝔅𝔩𝔲𝔢 𝔏𝔬𝔠𝔨

Summary:

Football was a thorn to your existence; Nothing special. Nothing exciting to watch. Then you watched Oliver Aiku, a natural-football genius, take the thing that you despised the most into something more of an acquired art form.

This, in turn, leads to an infatuation that you are not sure if it crosses into obsession over his football- or obsession over him. Which is it?

____________________________________________________

"..Your a fan?"

"Yeah, I think your a really good defender and, to be honest, your kinda underrated... you know? haha."

"Ah right,  I really appreciate it. Thanks. Just.. give me your paper, here.."

"Wait.."

You scribbled numbers on your notepad and gave it to him.

"Okay.. Oliver... Aiku... uh.. hey."

"..Yeah?"

"I don't date fans."

"Oh.. no I just wanted to- uh..."

" Look, yeah, I know what your trying to do. I just don't have time for it."

"Oh.. I just.. really admire you.. and..no i just.."

"Thats great, and im glad you admire me. Im grateful even, but.. im just not interested."

"Thats not it-"

He patted your shoulder, a whiff of Creed aventus reaching your nostrils.

He slowly grins at you, gazing at you with a tired expression.

"But I'm sure you will find someone you like."

_____________________________________________________________

You never used to be a football fan...in fact, it was your parents that were truly into the whole kicking the ball into the goal rubbish.

You remembered being an adolescent, the rancid smell of cheesy nachos,  wet hotdogs, and human sweat filling the stadium, feeling physically sick at the millions of stinky people gathering to see equally stinky players.

Its not like you had a choice either since they enthusiastically talked about how you were going to be exhilarated at the ambiance of screaming football fans, and seeing some 'fine' sportsmanship.

But...

'this' is what you were supposed to be excited about?

You might have been a child, but you knew yourself well, and you knew very, very well that this wasn't meant for you.

Too noisy. Too boring.  Too long.

"Mum, dad i wanna go home."  patting both of their arms.

They didn't look at you, so you repeated again, "Mom, dad-"

But there was no use, they were hypnotized, pupils enlarged and entranced by this sight that they call football.

Football.

What was so special about football?

What made people gravitate to this mundane sport? it was nothing spectacular to see.

To adolescent you.. it was a bother. A hindrance, to what you would have rather done.

So.. after a  few hesitant years of going to these matches, you expressed to your parents one day, "I don't wanna go to football matches any more."

It was extremely sunny that day, temperatures transgressing to at least 30 degrees.

"But why?"

"Because I hate it."

Your mom heavily gasped out, while your dad remained stone-faced.

"..i rather do something else.. with my time."

You weren't scared of them but at the same time, not gaining their approval made you uncomfortable.

Talking about what you disliked and liked didn't come naturally, seeking to people-please instead, not to offend, not to hurt.

This was a first for you, temporarily feeling proud of yourself, but quickly feeling increasingly tense as you waited for your parent's reply.

A throat was cleared, making the ice melt immediately.

Your dad wrapped you around in a tight hug, and spoke,

"..I had a feeling you didn't like going with us.. but i didn't listen to my gut. "

Your mom spoke as well, "I'm shocked..  but you really should have told us earlier sweetheart. We would of never.. you know took you if you didn't like it."

..And that was that.

they soon left, air conditioner turned to a maximum while enjoying a cool, ice cream bar.

No more football, no more boring, no more noisy. This was great.

After more years have passed, it was your last year of college, and you were at home, chilling out with one of your best friends.

You took a salty chip and popped it into your mouth, enjoying the prospect of one day moving out to your dream uni.

Your friend kneeled down to their knees, staring at you with puppy eyes.

You said, "What?"

"Look, im sorry im sorry.. I know you don't like it.. but can we..?"

"Ugh.. why? I told you i don't like that stupid sport."

"Yeah but.. look I promise you, this time around, YOU are going to enjoy it."

"..And how?"

"Because... don't worry. You SHALL see."

They took the remote from your hand and clicked to the football channel.

"Hey- I didn't say-"

"Looklooklooklookkkk! There he is!"

"Who?"

"JUST- LOOK."

Your eyes focused on the television screen, scanning for whatever the fuck your friend was going on about.

You lean your body, and the screen cuts to a guy kicking the football across the field, a sharp grin spread along his face as he did it.

Your friend jumped up on the sofa, hands clapping together.

" OH MYY GOD ITS OLIVER AIKUUUUUUUU! DID YOU SEE IT, DID YOU SEE IT?"

"Y-yeah.. Uh.. is this who..?-"

"YESS, YESS, HES LIKE, HES LIKE..  UGH SO BASICIALLY- HES THE  NEW CAPTAIN OF THE JAPAN U-20 TEAM-"

"Okay.. calm down-"

"YOUR NOT GETTING IT THOUGH, JUST LOOK AT HIM!"

You raised your eyebrow and took another glance at him.

His hair was shaggy, with green ends, had different colored...

"...Oh. He has heterochromia. "

"OH MY-"

They stood up, throwing their arms up while making a disgruntled expression.

"OKAY- Okay. Yeah OBVIOUSLY, but what else do you notice about him?"

"Ugh.. this is tiring.. okay."

Your eyes traveled down to his face for a few seconds, lips curling at his quite noticeable scruff.

You looked back at your friend, noticeably making a wide grin.

"..SEE? Your smiling. You liked that he had a bit of scruff going on huh-"

You took your velvet pillow and threw it at their face.

"Ah- shut up."

"He's good-looking, right?", pillow already off and scooched up right next to your personal space.

"Yeah. I guess so."

"He's like.. one of those older guys in those usual guy friend groups that you just can't help but have a crush on. Even the way he smiles-"

So you admitted it, he was attractive. But so are a lot of guys. It didn't mean that he was special.

But..

You did like the fact that he was older. That he was also a captain, so he was like an authoritative figure in a way..

....

Not in that kind of way.

That was your friend's dirty mind speaking.. not yours.. not yours.. okay. Maybe part of it was yours.

But that was as far as the interest went.. until you browsed on the internet and searched him up. You wanted to see why the country was obsessed with this guy..

So, when your parents eventually went to sleep, you browsed on Videotube, watching football matches of Japan-U20.  

The other players were extremely talented in their own way.. but in an unusual sense, you always felt drawn to how Oliver played.

His speed, his ability to swiftly take the ball, his quick reaction.. it was like watching someone who was constantly in their flow. Their zone, as footballers would call it.

This habit of watching a video once a week, became a daily thing, watching a match on the way to college, a match when you got home and a match whilst the lights were off.

You told yourself you still didn't like football.. this was.. simply a taster. Giving it another chance.  You just enjoyed the way they maneuvered the ball, that was it.

In fact, you wanted to give it a chance so much, that you even booked a ticket to watch next week's match, Japan-20 vs Blue Lock.

You were going to see... Oliver in person. his unique play, and his memorable lazy smirk,  you already captured it all in your head.

This wasn't a crush or anything.. it was infatuation over his skills.. at least, in a logical sense at the time.

Next week came in a flash, announcements of the big event making gossip at college, and gossip throughout the streets of Japan.

You wore a basic T-shirt, with denim shorts and trainers. A low-key look that didn't make you stand too much, and a look that averted the eyes of your football-obsessed parents.

You planned everything ahead, making sure that your seat was the furthest away from them, floppy hat packed away in your backpack, ensuring a cover just in case they looked your way.

Before you left the house, you told them, "Hey, I'm going to meet my friend at the park." an excuse that you were hoping wouldn't invite any intruding questions, and luckily it didn't.

You arrived at the stadium an hour early, finding yourself at the back seat watching, snacks bought with you to avoid buying the usual ridiculously pricey food.

"This is boring." You mumbled, opting to go on your phone, waiting for the drills and marching band to end.

Sudden loud chants of "Japan-20!" broke your concentration, realization that the game you were anticipating, was starting.

The teams came out 1 by 1, Blue lock eleven earning mixed receptions of boos and rejoicing, and japan reaching maximum and enthusiastic cheer.

You started to remember why you hated football in the first place.. until you saw Oliver coming out.

It was as if the spotlight was shining on him, handwaves at the audience and a toothy smirk all too uncomfortably familiar.

an unknown emotion was arising.

"Oh my god.. it's him.. oh my god.."  A sentence that you were meant to keep in the abyss of your mind.  

As your mind watched him in the way his quick reflexes would catch the ball, to his brutal shutdown of the other team, made the emotion more unclear than ever.

His swift agility to be able to steal the ball was like watching a peregrine falcon reaching its target, sharp claws wrapping all over its body, and diving up in the air to prevent other birds from catching it.

His aggressive yet calm play was paradoxically satisfying, seeing him change in between personas of taking the ball vigorously, and passing it like it was a feather.

This was the real thing and it was so much better seeing such a delicious luxury in person.

As the match started coming to a close,  a close 3-3 between the two teams,  you jumped from your seat,  shouting as loud as you can shout, "You can do it, Oliver!"

Fists raised in the air, momentarily forgetting that your parents could be in that audience.

A part of you hoped cheering would earn you acknowledgment from him but all it earned you were awkward stares and the increased likelihood that you would be caught.

Quickly realizing this, you took out your sun hat and stuffed it on your head, hoping the eyes on you would go away.

You looked back at the match, loud announcements already declaring that blue lock won.

Even though the loud uproars of the audience helped recoup some of your pride back, you couldn't help but feel a little hurt that Oliver didn't notice your words of encouragement.

But that is to be expected, you are only just a fan after all.

Your just a...

"Hey, I don't know who cheered for me and whatnot, but whoever you are, I really appreciate you~!"

It was his voice. He kept yelling on the microphone.

"Just make sure to cheer for the rest of my team next time, because after all, I'm not the only one who gave it my all today! Thank you!"

He gave a thumbs-up and went to his team.

It was surreal. Oliver Aiku. The one and only gave you acknowledgment.

Happy was an understatement, you felt.. like a zoo animal coming out of its cage for the first time.

Ultimate bliss.

You were going to meet Oliver Aiku no matter what,  whether it be now, or in a fan greeting. You just had to, it wasn't a superficial crush, it was more admirable than that, it was adoration, appreciation over his craft.

It's completely different.

____________________________________________________

Although this rejection was expected, you felt this wasn't how it was supposed to go.

You articulated it all wrong, you wanted to say that you enjoyed his football, that this wasn't because you liked him but that you liked his art.

You wanted to say...

"Look, my teammates are waiting for me.. uh....actually are you the one who cheered me on earlier?"

"Y-yeah i.. did. Look.. i don't want to date you.. I wanted to say.. I want to keep watching you."

"Oh aha gotcha.. wait.. you wanna keep watching me?"

"I... don't like you. I like.. the way you play football.  So much so.. that... I have to keep seeing it."

He rubs his chin in thought.

"..Interestin. very interestin. I've never heard such a peculiar response before. Hm. So then I'm guessing your just a football pervert, huh?"

"What...? No...! I..just..watching you.. has made me realize.. that.. uh.. football isn't that bad after all."

"Oh. right. So what ur saying is, you used to hate football, but watching me has got your head out ur ass and made you like it. Now.. where have I heard that before..?-"

"Oh for fu- no you egotistical clown! if you think im into you, then i think u need ur head out ur ass. Im into.. your football. I have a crush.. yes.. but on the way, you play. That is why.. but i think i made a stupid mistake-"

He puts his hands up, making his usual sarcastic smirk.

"Woah okay, okay calm yourself. haha. Your really easy to rile up....alright.  fine, I'll bite the bait. You wanna know when I'm next playing right?"

"...."

"Well i mean.. after that long-ass match.. ill be taking a deserved break. But.. i might play.. sometime next week. Just for fun, of course. I'll let ya know. In the meantime.. what should i call you?"

"Y/N."

"Cool. so... perverted football weirdo. Gotcha."

" you- and I'll call you... dumbass jerk."

He pats your back heartily while laughing.

"Okay! Dumbass jerk it is! I'll see you later, PFW."

He walks off, jumping into the football bus.

As you watch it leave in a surge of smoke, you can't help but think this isn't what your expectations were at all.

"Perverted football weirdo huh.."

....

"Fucking asshole."

Even though admittedly, you found this a lot more entertaining than you first thought.

-

Thank you for reading chapter, "1."

I hope you enjoyed this chapter and stay tuned for the next one!

This Episode: 1.

Next Episode: 2.

[callipraxia]

Welp, this brings back memories of my youth...except, my efforts to do these things were all doomed to spectacular failure, sooner or later. My issue in elementary and middle school was that I could never figure out how to create the false self that people would tolerate, and so I just...gave up, for the most part, early on.

Someone who would become a friend in tenth grade was one of my bullies in eighth grade. At the end of that year, though - knowing we were about to leave our middle school and go to a large high school, where we could go long periods of time without seeing each other, and where we did indeed not cross paths for our entire freshman year - wrote a long letter in my eighth grade yearbook about how he'd always admired me for just being myself even though it meant I had to put up with all kinds of nonsense from other people, including him. He wrote that he'd always wanted to just be himself, too, but just couldn't bring himself to do it because he couldn't stand the thought of everyone else treating him the way they'd all treated me, for all those years. I hope I didn't break his heart too much in tenth grade when I eventually admitted that I hadn't actually been brave, back in elementary and middle school - I'd just been too obtuse to figure out what other people wanted from me. That if I could have figured out how to do what he'd always done (ie, act "right" so that people wouldn't treat me like a physical and verbal football on a daily basis), then I would have done it in a heartbeat.

Now, looking back...I've no idea if being the way I was, not able to figure out how to adapt on even the surface level to my surroundings and reaping the backlash for being wired a bit different from the outset, was better or worse than the alternative. I can't say for sure that it was really better than spending more time trying to walk that tightrope (as I did, finally, manage to get metaphorically airborne in high school and college...though I didn't even fully realize I'd been on a tightrope until years after I fell off of it, though, because I had been told since childhood that the issues that would later be diagnosed as ADHD and OCD and severe clinical depression were just "life" and that my imperfect masking abilities and/or inability to do as I was told when I was told that I'd "better figure out" how to get over it all only resulted from character flaws, and had been told all that so often that by my senior year of college, I just assumed everyone was wearing a mask constantly and that mine just happened to be ill-fitting) would have been. Which itself feels like a 'wrong' thing to say, but...that's the truth. I don't even know if there is a better or worse option, even if someone could somehow objectively evaluate them side-by-side. They both just kinda suck, don't they?

because sometimes there are invisible tests and invisible rules and you're just supposed to ... know the rule. someone you thought of as a friend asks you for book recommendations, so you give her a list of like 30 books, each with a brief blurb and why you like it. later, you find out she screenshotted the list and send it out to a group chat with the note: what an absolute freak can you believe this. you saw the responses: emojis where people are rolling over laughing. too much and obsessive and actually kind of creepy in the comments. you thought you'd been doing the right thing. she'd asked, right? an invisible rule: this is what happens when you get too excited.

you aren't supposed to laugh at your own jokes, so you don't, but then you're too serious. you're not supposed to be too loud, but then people say you're too quiet. you aren't supposed to get passionate about things, but then you're shy, boring. you aren't supposed to talk too much, but then people are mad when you're not good at replying.

you fold yourself into a prettier paper crane. since you never know what is "selfish" and what is "charity," you give yourself over, fully. you'd rather be empty and over-generous - you'd rather eat your own boundaries than have even one person believe that you're mean. since you don't know what the thing is that will make them hate you, you simply scrub yourself clean of any form of roughness. if you are perfect and smiling and funny, they can love you. if you are always there for them and never admit what's happening and never mention your past and never make them uncomfortable - you can make up for it. you can earn it.

don't fuck up. they're all testing you, always. they're tolerating you. whatever secret club happened, over a summer somewhere - during some activity you didn't get to attend - everyone else just... figured it out. like they got some kind of award or examination that allowed them to know how-to-be-normal. how to fit. and for the rest of your life, you've been playing catch-up. you've been trying to prove that - haha! you get it! that the joke they're telling, the people they are, the manual they got- yeah, you've totally read it.

if you can just divide yourself in two - the lovable one, and the one that is you - you can do this. you can walk the line. they can laugh and accept you. if you are always-balanced, never burdensome, a delight to have in class, champagne and glittering and never gawky or florescent or god-forbid cringe: you can get away with it.

you stare at your therapist, whom you can make jokes with, and who laughs at your jokes, because you are so fucking good at people-pleasing. you smile at her, and she asks you how you're doing, and you automatically say i'm good, thanks, how are you? while the answer swims somewhere in your little lizard brain:

how long have you been doing this now? mastering the art of your body and mind like you're piloting a puppet. has it worked? what do you mean that all you feel is... just exhausted. pick yourself up, the tightrope has no net. after all, you're cheating, somehow, but nobody seems to know you actually flunked the test. it's working!

aren't you happy yet?

[sportskeeda-updates]

"Thanks to my Lord and savior" - Will Howard cheers up after spectacular win over Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-thanks-lord-savior-will-howard-cheers-spectacular-win-texas-longhorns-in-cotton-bowl?key4=sktumblr&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[directadmission]

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