#Ellington Airport

[nocternalrandomness]

2017 Wings Over Houston Airshow - Ellington Airport

[inceptionkitties]

We think our #inceptionkitties would be fantastic airport buddies!

[grlsbstshot]

NEON LIGHTS

Pairing (Original Characters):

Jameson Lucas (Aaron Pierre) x Imani St. Cirie (Megan thee Stallion) Genie Adesanya (Jayme Lawson) x Ellington “EJ” Dupree (Kelvin Harrison Jr.)

Chapters:

Neon Lights Masterlist

Chapter Synopsis: back in los angeles, jamani's romantic bubble bursts as reality sets in. paparazzi swarm, work resumes, and tensions rise when sloane and Christian get involved. meanwhile, genie struggles with her growing feelings for ej and overcomes an emotional setback

Warnings: smut (18+, minors dni), toxic relationship, them b words! (watch them b words!), sexual activity (fingering & oral - female receiving), dirty talk, explicit terminology -- if we missed anything, let us know!

Word Count: 10.1k I told yall a lot was going on. GET IN HERE. Divider Template: @cafekitsune

Notes: The following characters are original creations. Their voice claims are Usher / Lucky Daye (Jameson) & Summer Walker / SZA (Imani). We have no affiliation to any of those artists.

The automatic doors of LAX slid open, and the quiet hum of the airport interior was instantly drowned out by a wall of noise. Cameras flashed like lightning strikes, shouts ricocheted off the concrete, and the steady hum of idling cars was punctuated by the screech of tires.

James Lucas stepped out first, his hand gripping Imani’s before he notices the gathering that immediately moves in their direction. He shifts to wrap his arm around her waist to keep her close as if she might slip away in the chaos. He kept his head down, the reflection of his sunglasses obscured though his clenched jaw was impossible to hide. Genie followed close behind, similar pair of sunglasses on, her carry on suitcase trailing noisily over the pavement.

Her body language shifted from relaxed to tense before she regained a level of poise that escaped her companions. She had been used to this from birth. Where Jameson hadn't learned to hide his feelings, Genie did. She stared straight ahead, placing her hand against Imani's shoulder. The two worked in tandem to protect Imani.

“James! Imani! Are you two back together?” “Did you get engaged in Rome?” “Imani, over here! Can you look this way?” “James, what about the rumors you were seeing someone else before the trip?”

The questions came rapid-fire, each one laced with a sharper edge than the last. James didn’t answer. He never did. Instead, he tightened his grip around Imani as they navigated the maze of photographers and reporters. Airport security came out to assist but they were seemingly overwhelmed by the paps who all seemed to want to trigger a reaction from the trio.

Imani, for her part, looked unbothered. She wore oversized sunglasses and a sleek black coat that fell just below her knees, her expression unreadable as flashes lit up her face. But Jameson could feel her tight grasp on his free hand —the way her fingers curled slightly in his palm, the way her steps quickened when a reporter got too close.

"C'mon, man. Back up." Jameson muttered, his voice low and steady as they approached the car waiting. He shot a glance at Genie, who was now a step behind, her phone pressed to her ear as she pretended to be deep in conversation. Genie was good at this. She didn’t flinch, didn’t react. She just kept walking, her lips twitching into a smirk as one particularly overeager photographer tripped over his own feet.

The car was waiting just beyond the barricade, its sleek black frame a beacon of escape. Jameson guided Imani toward it, shielding her with his body as they reached the curb. A final burst of shouts erupted behind them—"Imani, do you think this will last?"—but the door slammed shut before the words could linger.

She didn't say anything but she turned to glare at the man who asked the question before Jameson shut the door. He moved to help Genie into the car, protecting her the way as he had done with Imani. Her bag was placed on the floor as she took his hand and front of her seat next to her and finally, he climbed inside. The doors were shut and finally, each could hear themselves think.

Inside the car, silence fell over them all like a heavy curtain. Imani exhaled first, sliding her sunglasses off and rubbing her temples. “That was worse than usual.”

"They get worse and worse every fucking day." Jameson said, his voice still tight as he leaned back against the seat. His shoulders stayed stiff, though, as if he couldn’t quite relax. The questions they had flung at the two bothered him -- more than he was willing to admit.

From the front seat, Genie let out a breathy laugh. "Welcome home, lovebirds." She turned to glance at them, one perfectly arched brow lifting. "Jamani was trending before we even got through customs."

Jameson groaned, closing his eyes. Imani didn’t respond, her gaze fixed on her phone as it buzzed softly in her lap. One new message.

[ 2134551147 ]: welcome back. let’s catch up soon.

She stared at it for a moment too long before responding

[ imani ]: and this would be? [ 2134551147 ]: christian

She frowned, wondering why he felt they were close enough for a welcome back text. As far as she knew, he was the guy her best friend had a crush on. Nothing more, nothing less. Either way, Imani wasn't interested in making him a priority. She ignored the text, locking her phone and dropping it in her bag as she reached across the space between she and Jameson to brush her fingertips against his earlobe.

He opened his eyes to gaze at her, smiling faintly as he reached up to pull her hand to his mouth. He pressed kiss after kiss to her skin -- from her fingertips to her wrist. They left the chaos of the paparazzi blitz behind but she couldn't help but feel that something else was coming.

As the car rolled up the long driveway to Jameson's Beverly Hills home, Genie was the first to see someone parked out front. She didn't recognize the car and briefly glanced into the backseat to ask Jameson if it was his -- but he and Imani were both asleep. So Genie didn't say a word. She thanked their driver as he came to a stop at the front door, a strange flutter in her chest. She wasn’t sure what it was—maybe the exhaustion from the long flight or the pull of being back in familiar surroundings—but she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was different.

She got out of the car, lifting her bag before she knocked on the back window hard. She heard Jameson jolt awake with a groan and knew her job was done. Before she could get used to the weight of the bag in her hand, it was snatched away. Genie turned with a speed that gave her a sprain in her damn neck. Standing next to her was EJ.

She blinked at him in surprise, realization dawning on her that the car she didn't recognize was his. "Ms. Adesanya," he greeted her softly, his gaze sweeping the length of her body. "Welcome back." From her crown of curls to the sneakers she wore, nothing escaped the touch of his gaze. Genie tried to get her mouth to work but all that came out was a cough. She heard doors opening behind her and was briefly grateful that Imani and Jameson had gotten out.

Imani was already gathering her things, slipping out of the car with a stretch of her arms over her head. Jameson made himself busy taking their things out of the car. Bag after bag was swept into his grasp as he overloaded himself -- doing his best to make sure Imani didn't have to carry a thing. "It feels good to be back." she said, a sigh of escaping her as she easily headed up the entryway into Jameson's home. It was like she hadn't spent a year as someone else's girlfriend. Jameson followed her inside, a little smile on his face as she went inside.

"Mhm." Genie agreed but her thoughts were on the man in front of her. Besides the short nod he gave them both, he hadn't moved to greet his best friend or hers. "What are you doing here?" she asked him, swallowing her surprise and reaching for the bag he had taken from her. EJ moved his hand back, refusing to let her recollect it. She couldn’t stop thinking about the conversations they’d had while she was in Rome, the way his voice had softened when he spoke to her, the teasing that had felt more personal than usual. She’d tried to ignore it. Tried to tell herself it was nothing. But it was hard to deny the way her heart beat a little faster as he stood in front of her.

"I wanted to be here when you got here. I missed you." EJ said, his voice light, but there was an underlying warmth to it that made Genie’s stomach do a little flip.

She forced herself not to smile, trying to keep her aloof confidence intact. "Somehow I doubt you missed me that much." she said softly, her voice came out a little breathless, and she hated how obvious it was. Genie sized him up, eventually relenting in letting him carry her bag. She edged around him, staying out of reach as if he'd snatch her up when she least expect it.

"I did." EJ said, his gaze lingering on her. "You don't know it yet but I'm not a man who says things I don't mean. You look good, you know? You always do, but...I suppose I'm looking at you in a different way now."

Genie felt her breath catch in her throat. Her eyes went wide and she froze before scrambling up the steps into Jameson's house. She was only supposed to drop the two off and then ask the driver to take her home but she wasn't thinking straight. She tried to put as much distance between herself and EJ. She hadn’t been prepared for...whatever he was doing. Normally, she would have brushed it off, made a joke, but there was something in the way he said it, something in the way he was looking at her, that made her feel exposed.

"Ms. Adesanya." EJ called out and Genie turned in the doorway. Jameson and Imani were nowhere to be seen. Nothing to distract from the fact that her heart was beating like crazy. "Let me know when you're ready to go home. I'll take you. I know you've got to be tired. It was a long trip."

"I'm not tired. Do I look tired?" Genie refuted, trying to figure out how to avoid being alone with EJ. She moved into the living room, settling herself on a couch and putting her feet up onto it so he didn't sit next to her. "It’s the jetlag," she said quickly, hoping to deflect. "Nothing serious."

"Well, if that’s jetlag, I think I need to catch it too." His voice was light, but his eyes were serious now, and it made her skin feel too tight. EJ sat her bag down next to the couch she was sitting on and made himself comfortable across from her -- on an entirely different couch. Genie relaxed somewhat...until he spoke again.

"I was hoping we could talk," he said, his voice softer now.

"About what?"z "You and me."

The words hung in the air, and Genie’s heart skipped a beat. She’d always known EJ cared, but hearing him say it like that... it was too much. Too real.

"I was unaware there was a you and me."z "There isn't. Not yet. That's what I want to talk about."

Genie jumped up from the couch, fear forcing her to pretend she hadn't heard him. "Imani! I'm going home!" The house was massive and she had no idea if she had heard her. "Jamie! I'm leaving! See you guys later!" The pull between them was undeniable, but she wasn’t ready to let herself feel it. She wasn’t ready to let him in. The last time she had done that, she got ripped apart. She didn't know EJ well enough to know that he wasn't like Christian -- and she couldn't afford to put herself at risk again.

She reached down for her bag again -- only for her hand to collide with EJ's. He was still look at her with those soft, caring eyes. Despite the fact that she had abruptly ended his attempts to establish a connection, he was still doing his best to take care of her. It should have calmed her but it scared her even more. She wanted to give in to it. "I got it. I got you." EJ said softly, waiting until she relented to pick up the bag. There was no anger or even a hint of upset in his gaze. Instead, he gave her a smile and nodded his head towards the door. "Let's go."

EJ pulled the car to a smooth stop in front of Genie’s home -- peering out of the window curiously. He had never seen her home before but it suited her. She didn't live in a massive mansion, behind iron gates. There was a wooden gate around the modern building. It fit into the West Hollywood neighborhood and it suited her. Sleek and smooth. He could bet there wasn't a thing out of place inside. Genie Adesanya had completely organized her life to fit into neat little sections. No wonder she didn't know what to do with him. EJ knew he didn't fit into a neat square. He glanced at her as she was unbuckling her seat beat, her movements brisk and deliberate like she was trying to avoid lingering too long.

"Thank you for the ride," she said, her voice light but a little too practiced.

"It's no problem," EJ replied, watching her out of the corner of his eye. "I'm just glad to help." She was all polished edges and grace, but there was something different. Something softer. Something...unnerved. Her usual air of confidence felt thinner, like she was holding it together with sheer willpower. He didn't flirt any further, didn't make a move the entire ride over. Little by little, she relaxed and he knew that she wasn't playing hard to get. She was unsure of him...and herself.

Genie opened the door and stepped out. Instead of closing the door, she paused then leaned down to give him a quick smile. "Really, EJ. Thank you. I...I'm sorry for being such a mess."

"You don't have a thing to apologize for." EJ said, softly, wanting to stop her before she even broached the subject again. "Go ahead. I'll wait for you to go inside." Genie nodded and closed the door before opening the back one to grab her bag out of it.

He watched as she walked toward gate and then to the front door, her back straight and her steps purposeful. But just before she reached the door, she hesitated. It was barely noticeable—a slight pause, a hitch in her stride—but it was enough to make EJ’s grip on the wheel tighten. She didn’t look back, though. She pushed through the door and disappeared inside, leaving EJ alone in the car.

For a moment, he just sat there, staring at the empty spot where she’d stood. He let out a slow breath, leaning back against the headrest as he tried to sort through the knot of emotions twisting in his chest. He hadn’t expected to feel this way. Not about her. Genie was... Genie. Confident, poised, untouchable. She wasn’t supposed to make him feel like this—like he wanted to protect her, to peel back the layers she kept so carefully in place and see what was underneath.

His interest hadn't waned but he realized rather quickly that doggedly pursuing her wasn't a way to get what he wanted. She would just run faster. Something had shifted when she saw him waiting for her. She hadn't been playfully flirty as he expected. He’d seen the cracks in her armor, the uncertainty she tried so hard to hide. And it hit him then, like a punch to the gut: she was scared. Scared of him. Scared of whatever this thing was between them.

EJ scrubbed a hand over his face, letting out a low chuckle. "Okay, Ms. Adesanya. I'll take my time." He couldn’t just charge in like he usually did, teasing and flirting until she gave in. Genie wasn’t like anyone else he’d ever been interested in. She needed time. Patience. And he was going to give it to her.

Starting the car, EJ pulled away from the curb, his mind already racing. He’d have to find a way to settle her nerves, to show her that she didn’t have to be afraid of this. Of him.

Because if there was one thing he knew for sure, it was that Genie was worth it.

Sunlight streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a warm, golden glow over the bedroom. Imani stirred beneath the soft linen sheets, the faint hum of activity from downstairs pulling her from sleep. She stretched languidly, everything pleasantly sore — a reminder of the way she and Jameson had celebrated a return to form appropriately. They hadn't even made their relationship official but Jameson carried on as if they were together again.

He had ushered her upstairs after they arrived at his home. He hadn't cared that their friends were downstairs. Jameson dropped her bags in his closet -- wordlessly inviting her to stay for as long as she wanted. Then he stripped her slowly, savoring the sight. They had both heard Genie call out to them but neither answered. They kept their gazes on each other, resisting the outside world for a little bit longer. When he spread her across his bed, he didn't let her get out of it. She spent the rest of that day and that night in the familiar sheets, embracing the fact that she was in love and always would be.

The room still carried traces of last twenty four hours: her tracksuit was separated -- the top on the floor where he'd started to undress her and the bottoms next to the bed. A flash of him peeling them along with her underwear down her legs came to mind and Imani grinned. Jameson's clothes were on the floor next to her bottoms. He hadn't taken a thing off until she came twice on his tongue. When he was undressed, he had pinned her down and went to town. The faint, intoxicating scent of him lingered on the pillows. A mixture of satisfaction and contentment warmed her chest.

Sliding out of bed, she wrapped herself in one of Jameson’s oversized button-downs from the closet then padded barefoot down from the second floor to the first. She followed the sound of clinking pans, the faint aroma of coffee, something sweet. As she got closer to the kitchen, she heard him before she saw him.

He was singing. Was it...Stevie Wonder? She laughed softly as he harmonized perfectly. Even without trying, his pitch was perfect. Jameson stood at the stove, barefoot and topless in sweatpants. "All I dooooo, ooh baby! Is think about yooou." He sang lowly as he flipped pancakes on a griddle. The image made her laugh. Suave, charming playboy dancing around his kitchen, singing love songs. "Good morning." Imani said, leaning against the counter with a playful smirk.

Jameson turned and she could see how happy he was. He lit up when he realized she was awake. "C'mere, girl." He told her as he clapped his hands together, making his way towards her with a goofy dance. Imani laughed, pushing off the counter as she tried to run from him. She moved slow as hell, waiting until he wrapped his arms around her waist to put up a fight. He pulled her body against his -- her back to his chest -- as they swayed together in his kitchen. "Well, let me tell you girrrl. Think of how exciting it would be...if you should discoveeer you feel like me!" he crooned, placing kisses to her neck between each word. "If you should discoveeer this dream is for two..."

Imani turned in his arms, hating how she giggled up at him. She was so go over this damn man that she started singing with him. "Well, I'm gonna tell you, giiirl." It hit her that they didn't sound half bad together. She opened her mouth to continue singing and he kissed her silent. She could hear the sizzling of the pancakes left on the griddle, the smell of bacon in the air. By the time he stopped kissing her, she didn't care about if he had burned breakfast or not. Stevie Wonder continued on with the song without them. He lifted his head, nipping at her lower lip. "How'd you sleep?" she heard him ask and slowly opened her arms. "Good" she said, "Very surprised you didn't wake me up though."

"You’re welcome." he teased, pressing a kiss to her temple. "I'm welcome? Pussy was so good, you in here singing and making breakfast." "Dick was so good that you wearing my shirt and singing along with me. So we're both welcome."

Imani rolled her eyes and yelped when he slapped his hand against her ass. "Start the day off right before I have to get you right." He warned her with a smirk. "We got a lot to do, you know.” Imani quirked a brow, confused. She didn't have a damn thing to do besides get sucked and fucked for the next forty eight hours. "What we got to do?"

"Sloane called this morning. She's throwing a party. We're invited. A little lowkey welcome back ting."

Imani blinked at Jameson before rolling her eyes once again, stepping out of his arms as she moved around the kitchen island. "You sure she invited me?"

Jameson followed her, not letting her get too far away. He pressed a kiss to her shoulder and nodded his head before he moved back to the griddle and examined the burned pancake. "Yes. I'm sure. She wanted to make sure you didn't feel a way about those pictures. It was totally innocent. I swear."

She believed him but her feelings towards he and Sloane were a little complicated. If she were being honest? She didn't trust that girl. Something about her came off as fake. The way she fawned over Jameson wasn't fake though. Never had been. Imani didn't see any other woman as a threat but Sloane was quickly getting classified as an annoyance to her relationship with Jameson. "I was hoping it could just be us for a little bit longer."

Jameson turned to face her, a spatula still in hand. "You know we can’t avoid the world forever, right? It'll be fun, baby. I promise. Sloane ain't so bad when you get to know her."

Imani stepped back and poured herself a cup of coffee as she tried her best not to let her temper get the best of her. "Sloane," she said slowly, stretching out the name so she wouldn't call her a bitch. "Is kind of a lot."

Jameson chuckled, sliding a pancake onto a plate. Clearly he agreed but some kind of loyalty kept him from saying it. "I'm telling you. Deep down, she's a sweet girl. Before she was dressed up in that designer shit, she was just a kid looking for somebody to pay attention to her. Her parents never did but I promise you -- She's a good person."

"Mhm." Imani muttered, taking a sip from her coffee cup. Jameson finished making her plate and ushered her to a seat, pressing a kiss to her head. "Listen. I promise, it'll be a short stop. We'll go, mingle, then be done in thirty minutes -- because there's a couple of positions I haven't put your flexible ass in yet and I would rather spend my time doing that."

Imani couldn't help but smirk even as she cut her eyes. He couldn't get enough of her and she was glad that the feeling was mutual. "It’s not about her tho. The cameras, the whispers, the questions. It’s a lot to walk back into. We haven't even gotten back together really."

She felt him hesitate him before he crouched down next to her seat at the table. His hand was pressed to the back of her head, gently brushing through through her hair. "We don't have to answer any questions. What we are ain't nobody business but ours. And if anybody thinks that's their business? You ain't scared to tell nobody to shut the fuck up. I saw you."

For once, Imani relented. She ignored her senses and did the opposite of what she wanted to do. She gave him a nod and watched him light up with happiness again. He kissed her quickly and moved back across the kitchen. Imani felt a flicker of unease beneath her contentment. She didn’t doubt Jameson’s feelings for her, but stepping back into his world—the world they’d left behind—felt like stepping into a minefield.

For now, though, she let herself enjoy the moment. The smell of pancakes, the warmth of his presence, the quiet promise of a new beginning. Tonight could wait.

The ice in Christian’s glass clinked as he swirled his drink, leaning back in her favorite armchair as though he owned the place. Sloane resisted the urge to snap at him to sit up properly. She didn’t have time for his nonchalance -- not when his part of the plan was essential. He was supposed to sweep Imani off her feet so that Jameson would know Imani wasn't going to stay with him.

She stood by the window, her phone in one hand and a glass of wine in the other, scrolling through the endless flood of notifications. The party she was planning was shaping up to be wonderful. If she genuinely cared about it, she'd be excited but it was just a means to an end. A text message came through from a 'friend' of hers -- Pictures of Jameson and Imani in every single one: the worst one was that insufferably sweet shot of him guiding and protecting her holding hands as they made their way out LAX.

"Jameson agreed to come to the party." she said, her tone wistful and soft. "He's bringing Imani."

Christian’s own tone lacked excitement. Imani hadn't replied to his text the day before. It wasn't the best start if you were trying to romance someone but he could understand how awkward things could get when you were sitting next to an ex and texting another man. "You don't sound happy. Isn’t this what you wanted?"

Sloane turned to face him, vulnerability clear in her expression. "I'm fine. I just...He looked happy. Happier than I've seen him in months. It's hard knowing that I'm trying to change that. I'm just trying to look out for him." She wanted Jameson, yes. But she also wanted him to be happy. His relationship with Imani was toxic. She just wanted him free of it.

He snorted, shaking his head at her. "Of course," he said sarcastically, taking a sip of his drink. "You’re just looking out for him. Like always."

Sloane's jaw tightened but she didn’t rise to the bait. Instead, she decided to toughen up. He didn't need to hear her sob story. All he had to do was his part. Christian had a way of needling her, of making her feel like her curated control was slipping. She crossed the room and perched on the edge of the sofa, setting her phone down with deliberate precision.

"I am looking out for him. I love him. I have always loved him. I saw him before he was with her. I saw him change to be with her. Constantly twisting himself up into knots trying to be what she needed." Sloane said, her voice low and steady. “There's nothing wrong with him. He's a good man. Loving, kind, intelligent. She runs when shit gets hard. She has never held his hand through the bad times or stuck by his side. And she’ll drag him back into a depression when she leaves again. I'm trying to stop that."

Christian tilted his head, his brown eyes moving from amusement to something close to pity. "You really do think you love him, don't you?"

Nine words and it felt as if he'd slapped her in the face. She did love Jameson. She could think of no one she loved more. Why was she the only one to see it?

Sloane met his gaze head-on, her spine straight and unyielding. "I do love him. And I'm going to prove it."

Christian stared at her for a moment, taking a deep breath. Pity remained in his eyes and his voice rang hollow as he spoke -- but he nodded and relented.

"What's the plan?" "The party is the perfect opportunity to remind everyone—including Jamie—who Imani really is. The cameras will be there, the industry people. All it takes is one little push and the narrative changes. Not the loving couple who found their second chance at love. Jameson will be the spurned lover. Imani would be the evil girl who left him hanging. They won't seem inevitable to anyone paying attention." "And what’s my role in this?" "You’re the right guy to trigger a reaction out of Jameson. He doesn't like you. So get close to her. Make him doubt her. If this relationship is as fragile as I think it is, it won’t take much."

Christian stared at her for a moment, leaning back in his chair like it was the first time he'd ever seen Sloane. "Maybe you do love him. You certainly know how to hit him where it hurts."

Shame settled deep in Sloane's chest. She didn't want to hurt Jamie. The last thing she ever wanted to do was hurt Jameson and here she was -- planning a public way to do just that. She shut her eyes, reminding herself that after he and Imani were done, he'd never have to go through this again. Her gaze drifted back to the window, to the Los Angeles skyline glowing in the distance. "I'm doing what needs to be done." she murmured, almost to herself.

Behind her, Christian’s voice was a low purr. "The thing about doing what needs to be done is that it rarely ends the way you think it will, Sloane."

12 hours later...

The party was a masterpiece. Sloane stood near the grand staircase, her champagne flute balanced delicately in her hand, surveying the scene with apathy. Despite every detail being meticulously planned: the soft golden lighting, the perfectly curated guest list, the hum of conversation that never grew too loud. She wasn't interested in any of it. Sloane was waiting for Jameson's arrival. She leaned against the bannister, perched and waiting.

Her gaze swept the room, searching but she didn’t have to look long. Jameson and Imani had just arrived, their entrance turning heads as Sloane knew it would.

Imani looked polished, almost regal, in a black dress that clung to her figure, her hair swept up to perfection. Jameson, as always, exuded that effortless charm that made him impossible to ignore. And, of course, their hands were entwined, a public declaration that set Sloane’s teeth on edge.

She moved toward them, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor, her smile practiced and warm. "Jamie!,” she greeted, practically launching herself into his arms. The scent of his cologne was familiar, almost comforting and it only sharpened her resolve. He didn't let Imani's hand go but his free arm wrapped around her back to give her a tight hug. "I can't believe you disappeared off to god knows where! Poor EJ was eating lunch alone one day until I joined him..." Sloane trailed off, laughter caught in her throat as she realized Genie had shown up. Well, she hadn't counted on that. "Imani. Genie. Hi! You both look stunning. As always."

"Mhm. Thanks." Imani replied, her voice smooth but distant. Genie didn't reply at all. She gave Sloane a blank stare and then left the trio there.

It was awkward but Sloane bounced back, giving Imani and Jameson a bright smile. Her gaze dropped briefly to their joined hands before flicking back up. "I’m so glad you both could make it. Italian jetlag is no job. Even worse than the jetlag from Japan. C'mon. Some people are dying to see you, Jamie. We've all been looking for you."

As she led them further into the crowd, she kept her tone bright, but her mind was already spinning. Imani was playing the part well enough, but Sloane could see the cracks. The slightly too-tight smile, the way her eyes darted around the room, searching for an escape route. She didn’t really want to be there.

Perfect.

Sloane’s eyes darted to the far corner of the room, where Christian leaned casually against the bar, his sharp suit and easy grin making him look every bit the devil she needed him to be. He caught her glance and gave a subtle nod, his cue to begin moving into position.

For now, she let Jameson and Imani settle into the party, watching as they were intercepted by a group of executives eager to schmooze with James Lucas. Half of them were all too happy to shmooze with Jamie. But Sloane noticed with satisfaction that half of them wanted to connect with Imani. Little by little, the couple began to split. They let each other's hands go and slowly drifted into mini circles of their own.

Good.

Across the room, Sloane caught sight of Genie with...EJ. They were talking casually but something in the shy smile Genie gave EJ hit Sloane in the chest. They used to be friends and she knew that meant Genie liked EJ. EJ leaned in to say something to her and Sloane watched as Genie laughed out loud. That was good too. She may not be Genie's favorite person but Sloane wanted her to find happiness.

Christian sidled up beside her, his presence surprising her. Sloane flinched before turning to glare at him. "I guess I'm up now." He didn't even wait for a response. He put his hands in his pocket and made his way toward Imani. Sloane felt a surge of anxiety in her body. The pieces were falling into place. The party hummed around her, a symphony of chatter and laughter, but she could feel the tension building beneath it.

Christian’s gaze landed on Imani from across the room, and a soft smile tugged at his lips. She looked stunning, as always. He could count on Sloane to be self-serving but he hadn't known he was capable of it until she dangled the ultimate prize right in his face. He had always wanted Imani. He saw her at a friend's party and was enchanted with the way she spoke about her music dreams. Sure enough, she chased it and there she was. A star. He wanted to bask in it with her. He thought time was on his side. That one day...they would give it a chance. But he had been wrong.

Genie was beautiful. She was lovely in all the best ways -- a genuinely good spirit -- but he hadn't wanted her. It hadn't been as Sloane said. He didn't fake date her for Imani's attention. At least not on purpose. He had let Genie pursue him though. Turning her down had proved to be difficult. For all his faults, breaking a woman's heart hadn't been something he ever wanted to do...but he had done it. Twice. The night she walked in on him and Sloane, he watched it fade from her eyes. She had held him in such high esteem and then it evaporated to nothing within an instant. He was nothing to her.

He tried to apologize so many times but Genie effectively cut he and Sloane out of her life. She hadn't told a soul as far as he knew. He had been too ashamed to pursue Imani after that. He let her slip from Jameson's hands into some damn quarterback's. And then he watched them self-destruct. He thought now he could give it a go with her. But of course -- James Lucas was proving hard to forget. Well, tonight, he was determined to remind her that she deserved more.

"Imani" he greeted warmly as he approached, his voice soft but confident.

She turned, her expression neutral but polite. "Christian."

He smiled, careful to keep his tone light. "It’s been a while. You're as radiant as ever."

"What do you want?" she asked, her words blunt but not unkind.

Christian chuckled softly. "Straight to the point. I admire that about you." He stepped a little closer, lowering his voice to make the conversation feel more personal. "I just wanted to check in. See how you’re doing."

"I'm fine." "Good. I'm glad to hear that. Especially now that you’re back with Jameson." "We're not back together." "No? That entrance made me think you guys were." "Me and Jameson are nobody's business but our own." "I completely agree. I actually came to warn you." "About?" "Sloane."

He had her full attention then. He could see it in how the tense outline of her shoulders. Her gaze shot across the room and sure enough -- Sloane was with Jameson. Laughing and talking lowly. She lifted her hand, brushing it against his forearm as he told her some story. They looked close. Intimate even.

"What about her?" "I'm sure you trust him. But life with him comes with her attached." "How you figure?" "I mean...look at them." "I don't need to. I trust him." "Good. I hope you two are everything you want to be," he said carefully. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Christian sighed, shrugging his shoulder. "Look, I’m not trying to cause trouble. I just... I know how much you’ve been through with him. And I know how close he and Sloane are." Her brows furrowed, but she didn’t interrupt. The silence stretched on for a full minute before she spoke again.

"They're friends." she said firmly, though there was a hint of doubt in her voice.

"Maybe." Christian conceded. "But I’ve seen how she looks at him, Imani. And I’ve seen how he lets her. You deserve someone who puts you first, always. Someone who makes you feel secure."

Imani’s jaw tightened, and Christian softened his tone, wanting sincerity to shine though...even if he was being deceptive. "We don't know each other well but I know Genie. It didn't end well between us. but I know you mean the world to her. I'm trying to make up for my wrongs. You deserve the world, Imani."

Imani didn’t respond, brushing past him with a mix of grace and frustration. Christian watched her go, calling out before she left earshot, "If you ever need someone to talk to -- someone who can see you above all else -- I'm here." She didn't turn around but he knew she had heard him.

From across the room, he noticed Genie watching him. Her expression was cautious, her posture tense. A man next to her took a step forward, protectively placing a hand against her arm. Christian gave her a nod in greeting before moving back into the fringes of the party.

Genie’s eyes flicked back to Imani and Christian, her stomach twisting with unease. Christian’s hand lingered too close to Imani’s arm, his smile too practiced, too deliberate. Imani seemed to pull away slightly, but the subtle shift only made the tension between them more obvious. Genie’s heart tightened, and she couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy—though she quickly brushed it aside.

She had no right to feel that way, right? Imani was her best friend, and Jameson’s girlfriend. She'd never fall for the shit Christian could spew but...but why was he so fixated on Imani? First it was Sloane and now Imani? Both her best friends...but never her.

She glanced down at her glass, her fingers tightening around it. The conversations around her seemed to fade into the background. She was so used to living in the periphery of Jameson and Imani’s relationship, always supporting them, always being the friend. But now, standing here at the edge of the party, watching Imani and Christian, Genie realized how much of her life had been spent orbiting around their drama, their needs, their world.

She had spent so much time trying to hold everything together for them—always watching, always helping, never asking for anything in return. There was a beautiful, funny man standing next to her, wanting her. She wanted him just the same but she let the insecurity about Christian make her afraid. What good was life if she didn't actually live it?

A soft chuckle broke through her thoughts, and she turned to find EJ standing nearby, a playful grin on his face. “You okay?” he asked, his voice low, though his eyes were warm with concern.

Genie hesitated, then nodded, giving him a grateful smile. “Yeah, just... thinking.”

"About what?" "About the talk you wanted to have with me earlier?"

She watched his eyes go wide in surprise and couldn't help but laugh. She shyly dropped her gaze from his -- knowing that her sudden 180 had confused him but in an instant -- everything had become clear. It was scary trying to see where things go with him but she was going to do it anyway. “You want to get away from it all for a bit?”

He blinked, "What do you mean?”

Genie's grin softened, and there was something in her eyes -- something unspoken. “We could go upstairs. Get away from all the noise, have a drink, talk. Just... you and me.”

Her breath caught as she waited for his response. She’d spent so much time worrying about everyone else, about Imani and Jameson and their tangled mess of emotions. She’d spent so much time denying the way her heart fluttered every time EJ was near, pretending that the connection between them was nothing more than friendly flirtation. But maybe it was time to stop pretending.

She looked at him, really looked at him for the first time tonight. The way his eyes softened when they met hers, the way his lips quirked into that familiar, teasing smile. He was there for her, in a way no one else had been.

And maybe, just maybe, it was time to let herself feel something for once.

“Yeah,” he said quietly, "I think I’d like that."

She was sober. Completely sober. She'd only had a single glass of champagne but Genie couldn't explain what came over her when EJ closed the bedroom door behind them. She didn't even know whose bedroom this was! All she knew was that she decided to restart her life. She was going to start it right then. EJ lifted his gaze to her, giving that same patient and gentle grin...and Genie pulled him in for a kiss. She was all clumsy enthusiasm, making up for her impatience with the expert use of her tongue. By the time she was done with him, she was sucking on his tongue with gentle moans and she could feel him hard against her thigh. He pushed against her silk dress, hands grasping at the fabric covering her ass.

She was so caught up in kissing him that she didn't realize he had her dress raised over her hips and bunched up at the back. EJ expertly moved them until the wood of the door was pressed to her back. Genie broke the kiss in a daze, blinking back to some sense of sanity. She felt the chill of the wood against her ass, the thong she wore to avoid lines on her dress doing nothing to cover her up.

She saw in that moment that EJ was a man of precision and focus. He didn't attempt to undress her or even get himself unclothed. He simply shoved her tongue aside and delved into her wetness with his index and middle. He didn't set a brutal pace. He eased into her with care, watching as her stance widened as she tried to keep herself upright. Even the door wasn't enough support for her. "Ms. Adesanya needs some help, don't she?"

Genie whined, nodding her head. She fully expected him to hitch her leg up his waist and keep going. Instead, he dropped to his knees with ease. He placed her left leg over his shoulder and did the same with the right. It removed his fingers from her but she gave a yelp of surprise, realizing he was bearing the weight of her body on his shoulders. Genie reached out for anything, trying to grasp onto the door but it was useless. She had to put her trust into EJ. She forced herself to relax and it worked...for about five minutes. Until he put his mouth on her.

She moaned loudly, the sound echoing through the room as she fought the urge to twist her hips and grind against his face. The position meant she had to trust in him and not move too much. Her fingers found purchase in his jacket, pulling gently as she lost herself in the sensations. Every time he flicks his tongue against her sweet spot, Genie gasped. It wasn't long before he was picking up the pace, using only his tongue to get her off as his hands propped her thighs wide open.

The sound of his tongue lashing against her was joined by the sound of her getting wetter and wetter. The sound of sex filled the air, thick and heavy to the point where it felt like it'd choke her if she didn't say something. "E-EJ," she breathed out between moans, "That feels so good."

Her hips bucked wildly against him, seeking more contact with his eager mouth. He slid his tongue from her clit to between her folds, feasting on her pussy like he was a starving man who'd survived years without a meal. Her vision blurred with pleasure as she looks down at him. She couldn't close her legs around his head even if she wanted to. All she could do was take it.

Her body trembled with need as her jaw dropped. EJ focused on her clit, sucking with deep pulls. Genie couldn't speak, couldn't breathe. She simply...let it happen. She came on his face with a shudder, the ability to speak beyond her. She began to grind her pussy against her face and she felt him push himself forward, meeting every twist of her hips with eagerness. It was like he wanted her essence covering every inch of his skin. The realization made her come again. It hit her so hot and fast that she screamed his full name, becoming unbalanced. "I got you, Ms. Adesanya. I told you I had you." He whispered softly and she held those words close to her heart.

But she didn't hit the floor. EJ pulled back just enough to gently guide her down. There she lay -- on the floor or someone's bedroom, feeling delirious as a man who scared the shit out of her twelve hours ago continued to eat her out. It didn't matter that she had come twice. That damn tongue just kept lapping it all up. The more he licked at her, the more she gave him. It was neverending.

Genie hummed with happiness. EJ lifted his head to watch her. The silly little grin on her face made his dick throb but he knew this was as far as they were going to go. They had moved faster than he wanted to but he didn't turn the chance down. Sliding his fingers back into her, he kissed her thigh and tested her limits. He spent the next hour seeing what she could and couldn't take.

They didn't get up from the floor. His damn knees had started to hurt but he didn't break the spell -- even if there was a bed mere feet away.

Two fingers? Perfect. She rode em like a pro. Three? Tight fit but she took it and even squirted a bit to their surprise. Four? She came as soon as he even attempted to wedge his pinky inside of her. Direct contact with her clit? She loved it. Came within minutes. Indirect contact? She got impatient and bratty. Using his tongue? He could turn her into a grunting and gasping mess.

Never would he have thought that he could be so turned on by giving someone else nothing but attention and pleasure but there he was -- finding joy in devouring the girl he'd had a million fantasies about in a week.

Genie's back arched from the floor as he switched his attention to her clit, flicking it with his tongue in just the right way. Her thighs were wet, his face was a mess, and her moans had weakened in power. She was so lost in him that she didn't see the doorknob turn. EJ kept his attention on her, knowing whoever it was couldn't get inside. The door was locked. But Genie coasted towards yet another orgasm -- not giving a damn what was happening downstairs, who was at the door, or all the reasons this shouldn't happen. Her legs tensed and he could feel it wash over her.

"Fuck," EJ groaned against her, "Ms. Adesanya, Ms. Adesanya." Genie finally shut her thighs over his head, shaking her head. She couldn't take anymore. She flinched with her touch...even as he pulled away from her. "You can call me Genie now." She whispered to him, a blissed out grin on her face as he laughed out loud.

Jameson leaned against the bar, swirling the ice in his drink as Sloane’s laugh rang out beside him. She was recounting some ridiculous story about her latest project, her tone animated and her gestures exaggerated. The girl was a trip and he couldn't help but laugh when he was with her. They always had a good time. He chuckled absently, his eyes scanning the crowd for Imani.

"She"s probably off networking, I did see her with Christian McKay" Sloane said, following his gaze. "Don't worry so much! Or I mean...maybe she’s just avoiding us."

Jameson frowned at the mention of Christian McKay -- standing straight. He couldn't stand that bastard. But something Sloane said caused him to turn back to her. "Why would she avoid us?"

Sloane shrugged, sighing loudly. "Or maybe just me. I mean -- the mags tried to make it seem like we had something going on. Maybe she's uncomfortable with me. You don't have to worry though. I'm going to make sure she doesn't think that at all."

Jameson smiled faintly, lifting his hand to pat her shoulder in gratitude. "Thank you, Lo. I know you don't exactly approve but that means a lot to me."

Sloane's smiled up at him fondly. "I'd do anything for you, Jamie. Even if it means making nice with someone who causes stress and strife in your life."

Jameson rolled his eyes, scoffing as he dropped his hand from her shoulder. "Here we go again. I can handle Imani. I handled the drama in Italy. I can handle our relationship. Everything's fine."

Before she could respond, he saw Imani approaching and immediately perked up. Relief washed over him, her presence like a steady anchor in the chaos of the party. "Baby!" His deep voice called out as he grinned, waving her over. "C'mere!" The closer he got, the more he saw she was agitated. "What's wrong?"

She opened her mouth to speak but there was Sloane, waving her towards the bar. "She's fine. Don't be silly. Hi, Mani! So glad you could finally join us. Come. You have to have the dirty martini and tell me more about Italy. Jamie told me it was so sweet. Arguing, making up. Some would say that's the hallmark of a toxic relationship but I think that's pure romance for you two."

He saw it on her face before she even opened her mouth. She was pissed. Jameson turned to give Sloane a stare -- wondering what the fuck made her say that. "I see you been telling your lil friend everything."

Jameson's gaze shot from Sloane back to Imani and he could tell that he was in dangerous territory. "No, baby. I didn't --"

Sloane frowned, tilting her head as if she didn't understand. "Did I say something wrong? I was...just saying, it’s a shame you both went all that way just to bring your baggage with you."

"Alright, enough." Jameson said sharply, watching them both. Sloane lapsed into silence obediently but Imani didn't seem phased. She cocked her head to the side, glared at him, and then back at Sloane.

"Your friend got an issue with me or sum’n?" Imani asked, placing her hands on her hips. Attempting to hide the scowl on her face wasn’t an option anymore. She was too annoyed to try. Sloane had lapsed into silence but Jameson knew that wouldn't hold for long.

“No, baby. Why would she?” “Cause she keeps making all these snide ass remarks. I know you heard ‘em, Jameson.” “That’s just how she jokes, babe. She’s just playing around.” “Well you need to tell her that I don’t play like that 'cause she got one more time.”

He felt it spark something in Sloane. She put her glass down on the bar and took a step forward. Jameson immediately wedged himself between the two of them. he didn't know who the fuck Sloane thought she was fooling. she knew damn well she couldn't fight...but he knew Imani could. He knew she'd drag across the floor so good that her Prada pumps would snap in two. He had to figure out how to de-escalate the situation.

"I don't know what's going on with you, Imani." Sloane told her from behind Jameson but he saw her pop her head around his frame. "But I won't tolerate being disrespected at my own event."

People had started to turn and pay attention and slowly, you could hear a pin drop throughout the event. "Why the hell are ya'll putting me in this position?" he muttered to them both as Imani tried to sidestep him.

Imani's head cocked to the side. She looked at Jameson like he morphed into a mythical creature. “In this position? I don’t have no issues with her. She’s the one walkin’ around here like I’m fucking her man or something.”

Jameson frowned, “Cut that shit out. Sloane and I are just friends. Everybody knows that but you."

Imani rolled her eyes in that way he hated. “Are you sure she knows that? Have you seen the way she looks at you? That bitch is in love with you! Everybody sees it but you!” she sighed, wishing she could exhale the tension from her body as well. “I can’t say I blame her delusional ass though. I mean, look at how affectionate you are with her.”

"Hold on. How the fuck did this become my fault?" he retorted. "Because she's your problem. I bet if you walked up to that bitch right now and kissed her, she’ll let you.” "Would you just let it go? And stop calling her a bitch. I don’t know why you act like this over her. All I want is you!" “Well act like it then! Stop being all over her all the fuckin’ time. Then maybe she won’t get the wrong idea and --” “She knows we’re just friends! You’re the only one not seeing that. I’m not switching up how i act with my friend just because you made up a scenario in your head!" “Ohhhhh now I’m making up shit in my head? Go to hell, Jameson! I knew I shouldn’t have came to this dumb ass party! You want her here to just stroke your ego? Aight, bet!”

She turned away from him and he felt Sloane relax behind him, her hands grasping his shirt and forearm. As Imani made her exit, Sloane held him back. He immediately snatched away, upset at the turn things had taken. "Why the fuck did you antagonize her?" He rounded on Sloane with wide eyes.

Her lower lip quivered as she shook her head quickly. "I didn't mean to! You heard her being nasty to me. It's not my fault you care about me too. What does she want you to do? Abandon everyone but her?"

He clenched his jaw, words he wanted to say stuck in his throat. Jameson couldn't find it in himself to refute her claims. All he wanted to do was get to Imani. He shook his head and moved away from Sloane, quickly following Imani's steps out of the party -- to the amazed faces of partygoers. He could only imagine the fucking headlines tomorrow.

“Imani! Imani!”

She rolled her eyes, knowing exactly who it was. She didn’t bother to turn around. She busied herself with her phone instead, looking for a ride to get the hell away from there. She refused to put herself at risk for Jameson only to get disregarded for a bitch that he didn't even realize loved him.

“What do you want? Don’t you have a girlfriend to attend to?” she snapped. “I’m attending to her right now.”

She shook her head, normally charmed by his antics, but right now? She didn’t find anything he said to be amusing. “I’m not a second fiddle bitch, Jameson. You gone have to make a choice. It’s me or her.”

His eyes went wide and she knew he was either in shock or pissed. She didn't like either option. “Do you hear yourself right now? Are you really gonna make me choose between you and my childhood friend? That’s ridiculous, Imani.”

“That’s not your friend, Jameson! She’s a bitch. She's obsessed with you but you too blind to fuckin’ to see it cause you like that shit deep down.”

"So now Sloane is obsessed and I secretly like it? You don't hear the ridiculous shit coming out of your mouth?"

She scoffed, “Oh now I’m being ridiculous? Fuck you and that bitch, Jamie. Go back to her party and be with her.”

“I don’t want her! I want you.” "Like I said, it’s me or her.” “I'm not doing that, Mani. You’re not going to make me choose between you or my friend.” “Sounds like you made your choice to me, Jamie. Go marry her and have some light-eyed ass kids!” she said. “Have a nice life and leave me the fuck alone.”

Jameson took a deep breath and Imani knew he was searching for patience or some kind of reply. She didn't give a fuck what he had to say about anything anymore. She gave him the choice and the answer hadn't been her.

"Baby, this isn't fair. And it is ridiculous. I'm not giving up on us. I never will. But i want you to be clear -- it's you walking away. Again. Like you always do."

She laughed, shaking her head. "No, it's you, Jamie. You refuse to set boundaries between you and -- that girl. I like threesomes, but I'm not into polyamorous relationships so y'all have fun."

Sadness set into his expression and she knew she had to stay strong. It was like she told him in Italy -- a fuck ass speech wouldn't always fix things between them. He couldn't smooth over his mistakes with love or charm or sex. Not this time. "It's always only been you. You know that," he said softly. "She doesn't factor into our relationship. Never has. So why are we doing this? Why is this happening, Mani?"

Imani quirked a brow at him, tilting her head. "Does she know that? No. But i can't blame her. She gets you without the headaches. Without the fights. So y'all have at it."

Jameson frowned. "She gets a friend. You got my heart, Imani. Why is that never good enough for you?"

She shook her head, "It's not enough because you act like she got a piece of that shit too, Jamie! You can say you don't but why else would Sloane act the way she does?"

He huffed with frustration, moving away from Imani as he paced. He was getting angry and was doing his best not to show it. "I told you about her life. She doesn't have anybody but me and Genie. Just me now. I can't abandon her. I don't want to, Imani."

They just kept talking in circles. She knew they would never get anywhere. Imani put her hand up, shaking her head. "I told you. You gone have to choose. Me or her." The sleek Mercedes she'd requested to pick her up pulled to a stop at the sidewalk and Imani gave Jameson one last look before climbing inside. He looked so damn defeated that she didn't know what to do with herself. She chose to remain strong. She picked herself first over the stress and chaos that came with being with Jameson...and she didn't think there was anything he could say to change her mind.

[hcartcorruptcd]

ELLINGTON "EL" TAYLOR survived another night. The town would certainly feel less safe without a them close by. Not to mention, we can’t lose another LEVEL THREE MECHANIC, plus they’re only THIRTY-THREE years old. Crazy to think, it’s been TWO YEARS since their arrival, though in a place like Oblitus it can feel much longer. Good thing they’re staying at the RESIDENTIAL AREA. Almost like it happened yesterday, they still remember LONDON, ENGLAND, and where they came from. It’s no secret, they were LEAVING THE AIRPORT FROM A WORK TRIP when they came across the tree, and is still keeping them up at night. Truth be told, they’re awfully COMEDIC and DISTANT, but they’ve survived this long. Well, it’s almost day light again, maybe they’ll play SITTIN ON THE DOCK OF THE BAY by OTIS REDDING this time. Welcome to another night in Oblitus, please don’t open the doors. (fitz, 27, he/him, est)

BASIC INFORMATION

NAME: Ellington "El" Taylor GENDER: Non-binary (they/them) NICKNAMES: El BIRTHDAY: April 23, 1991 AGE: 33 ASTROLOGY: Taurus Sun, Taurus Moon, Cancer Rising SEXUALITY: Lesbian HOMETOWN: London, England BIRTHPLACE: London, England RELIGION: Agnostic EDUCATION: Master of Engineering (MEng) in Aerospace Engineering from Imperial College London RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Single

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

HEIGHT: 5'8' EYES: Green HAIR: Brown BUILD: Slim DISTINGUISHING MARKS: Large back tattoo of an airplane

PERSONALITY & BEHAVIOR

HOBBIES: Model Plane Building, Stargazing, Gardening, Cooking/Baking, Vinyl Record Collecting, Photography LIKES: Routine, Neatness, Reading, Meaningful Conversations DISLIKES: Rashness, Superficiality, Crowds, Loud Noises. QUIRKS: Fidgets, Slightly Mismatched clothing, Ritualistic morning routine, Collects small objects. STRENGTHS: Patient, reliable, empathetic, determined WEAKNESSES: Stubborn, overly-cautious, emotional absorption.

BACKSTORY:

you can find the full story here.

BACKSTORY BULLET POINTS ( tw: addiction. overdose. death. )

Family: Youngest of three; parents instilled a love for precision (mother was a nurse, father an engineer). Childhood: Quiet, introverted, obsessed with model planes; early fascination with aircraft due to father’s influence; El's mother hurts her back lifting a patient and begins on a tumultuous path with prescription pain killers. Teen Years: Developed a passion for aviation; earned a private pilot's license at 18; inspired by father's military stories to join the Royal Air Force (RAF). Tragedy: Just before leaving for basic training for the RAF, El's mother overdoses on heroin. Military Career: Served as an aircraft technician in the RAF, excelling in aircraft quality assurance; served for five years. Education: Left the RAF and earned a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Aerospace Engineering from Imperial College London in 2019. Post-Military: Worked as a global aerospace quality assurance engineer, conducting aircraft inspections. Personal Life: Had a serious relationship with Maude, a fellow servicewoman, but they broke up due to emotional differences. Trapped: On their way back from a work trip in 2023, encountered the mysterious tree in the road and became trapped in a strange town with no way out. Life in Town: Struggles with anxiety and the loss of routine but uses their problem-solving skills and military training to contribute to the community.

WHERE WAS YOUR CHARACTER WHEN THEY SAW THE TREE AND THE MURDER OF CROWS? WHERE WERE THEY GOING? WERE THEY TRAVELLING ALONE? HOW DID THEY FEEL?

As El returned from a work trip, their mind was still filled with thoughts of quality checks on the latest aircraft. The long day at the facility had drained them, yet the routine of their job had provided a comforting structure amid the chaos of the town they found themselves in. The evening air was cool as they drove, the familiar route easing their mind, but the calm was shattered when they encountered a massive fallen tree blocking the road. “Of course there’s a tree in the road,” El muttered, rubbing the back of their neck as they slowed the car. The sight felt surreal—like something out of a horror film rather than the mundane reality they had come to accept. The tree lay sprawled across the asphalt, roots exposed like the twisted fingers of a buried hand clawing for freedom. They parked a few feet away and stepped out, heart racing as the cawing of a murder of crows echoed ominously overhead. “What now?” El sighed, running a hand through their brown hair. The tree, large and menacing, seemed to loom over them, its presence a stark reminder that this town was anything but ordinary. El's analytical mind, trained to assess and diagnose issues in aircraft systems, began to work overtime. “This must have fallen recently,” they thought, observing the fresh splintering at the base and the disturbed ground. Their engineer instincts kicked in, but an unsettling feeling prickled at their skin. The air felt heavy, as if the tree had absorbed the darkness of the night. Stepping closer, El felt a wave of anxiety wash over them. The crows’ caws intensified, and they glanced up, trying to read the sky for answers. “It’s just a tree, right?” they reasoned, but something in their gut whispered otherwise. They took a deep breath, trying to shake off the discomfort that had settled in. “Just get past it, El,” they urged themselves, but the sight of the tree held them captive. The serene world of aircraft engineering felt a million miles away. “What if this is a sign?” El took a step back, the urge to turn around growing stronger. Their practical nature battled with an emotional intuition that had been sharpened by their experiences in this strange place. “No need to tempt fate,” they decided, finally pivoting on their heel, ready to find another route.

DESCRIBE YOUR CHARACTERS FIRST DAY/NIGHT IN TOWN. DID THEY ARRIVE IN THE DAYTIME? WERE THEY WARNED BY THE RESIDENTS? DID THEY HAVE TO BE RESTRAINED?

El's first day in town was a slow descent into confusion and dread. After arriving in the late afternoon, they felt an uneasy air of anticipation wrapping around them. The sun hung low, casting an orange hue over the streets, but as they drove through, an unsettling realization struck: every turn led them back to the same spot. It was as if the town itself conspired against them, trapping them within its confines. After several frustrating attempts to leave, El began to feel the weight of impending nightfall pressing down on them. Just as the last rays of sunlight dipped below the horizon, they spotted a townsfolk wandering by—a woman with wide eyes, her demeanor frantic and wild. Desperation surged through El as they pulled over, stepping out of the car and rushing toward her. “Please, can you help me? I can’t leave!” they exclaimed, shaking her shoulders gently. “What is happening here? Why can’t I get out?” The woman’s eyes widened in alarm, and she took a step back, her hands trembling. “You have to stay away from the trees and—” she started, but El’s mind raced, logic slipping away as panic gripped their chest. In an instant, the serene engineer was replaced by a whirlwind of anxiety. “No! This doesn’t make sense!” El gasped, their breath coming in quick bursts. The world around them began to spin, shadows stretching and creeping closer, and they could feel the pressure building in their chest as the realization of their captivity hit home. “Breathe, El! Just breathe!” they muttered to themselves, trying to cling to the remnants of their calm nature, but it felt futile. The anxiety attack washed over them like a tidal wave, and they stumbled back, disoriented and gasping for air. Within moments, the townspeople had gathered, understanding the urgency of the situation. They moved in, gentle but firm, restraining El as the darkness thickened around them. “You can’t be out here when it’s dark,” one of them said, voice steady, almost soothing amidst the chaos. El's heart raced, and they fought against their hold, a mixture of fear and frustration coursing through them. “I just want to go home!” they cried out, but deep down, they knew that was no longer an option. The sun had set, and with it, the true nature of this place began to reveal itself. As night enveloped the town, El felt the reality of their situation sink in, the comforting familiarity of their engineer’s mind now a distant memory.

WHAT DID THEY LEAVE BEHIND? WHAT WAS THEIR LIFE LIKE ON THE OUTSIDE?

Before El found themselves trapped in the mysterious town, their life outside was one of structured routine and quiet heartache. As an aerospace engineer, El thrived in their work, meticulously overseeing quality checks on aircraft and collaborating with a dedicated team. Their days were filled with problem-solving and innovation, but the weight of a recent breakup lingered heavily on their shoulders. El's life was centered in London, where they lived in a cozy apartment adorned with model planes, vinyl records, and a small herb garden that they tended to with care. Although they cherished the serene evenings spent stargazing from their balcony, contemplating the vastness of the universe, the shadows of their past relationship cast a long pall over their thoughts. El had recently broken up with Lila, an artist whose vibrant spirit had once breathed life into their more structured world. Their relationship had been passionate and creative, but the differences that once attracted them eventually created rifts that were too wide to bridge. Lila’s spontaneity and free-spirited nature often clashed with El’s need for stability and routine, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion. Their last conversation still echoed in El’s mind—an emotional farewell that left them feeling adrift, yearning for the connection they had lost. Now, facing the horrors of their new reality, El felt the ache of what they had left behind—an unfulfilled life, a job they loved, and the memories of laughter and friendship shared with Lila. Those recollections became increasingly distant, tantalizing yet painfully unreachable, as they grappled with the chilling thought of whether they would ever return to that life or if they were destined to remain in this endless nightmare, haunted by both the town and the echoes of a lost love.

CONNECTIONS IDEAS

Mentor-Like Figure: El has bonded with an older resident who has been stuck in the town for much longer. This person could serve as a mentor, helping El navigate the strange rules and creatures that roam at night. Close Confidants: After two years, El has found people they trust deeply and they all rely on each other for survival. A Rivalry Turned Alliance: This is another resident who challenges El’s way of thinking, maybe someone more impulsive or emotionally driven. They clash over how to handle their entrapment, but after a crisis (like a close encounter with the night creatures), they realize that working together is the only way forward. Unspoken Romantic Tension: El develops a complex connection with someone in town who reminds them of what it is like caring for someone else romantically, sparking a mix of nostalgia and hesitation. Their connection could be subtle and unspoken for a long time, with moments of vulnerability and near-confession. The town’s dangerous environment could keep them from pursuing anything deeper out of fear of attachment and loss. Sibling Dynamic: El has taken a protective role over someone younger, perhaps a teenager or a young adult who stumbled into the town recently. This person could look up to El, relying on their patience and problem-solving abilities. Resource Exchange: El has a transactional relationship with another resident (neighbor?), where they trade resources, skills, or information. This person might be particularly good at scavenging or making life in the town bearable, while El offers practical engineering skills, such as maintaining equipment or building makeshift defenses against the night creatures. Newcomers: After being trapped for two years, El encounters a new arrival who refuses to accept the reality of the town, mirroring El's own initial reaction. The newcomer’s optimism might trigger memories of when El still believed in escape, creating a bittersweet dynamic.

LEARN & LISTEN: pinterest, playlist.

[tfc2211]

Duke Ellington Morris joined the California airport’s Wag Brigade as the first feline to join the San Francisco International Airport’s team of therapy animals.

[igettalk]

Helicopter Crash in Houston's Second Ward Claims Four Lives, Including a Child

On Sunday evening, a helicopter accident in Houston's Second Ward claimed the lives of four people, including a child. The incident occurred at approximately 7:54 p.m., according to the Houston Fire Department, when a privately-owned Robinson R44 helicopter collided with a radio tower near the intersection of Engelke Street and Ennis Street.The aircraft, which had departed from Ellington Airport, struck the tower or a cable connected to it, causing a very loud explosion. The impact led to the collapse of the radio tower and ignited a grass fire that spread over two city blocks. https://twitter.com/Samtheman_1982/status/1848179054588948896?ref_src=twsrctfwtwcamptweetembedtwterm1848179054588948896twgrb56b154961c1222e7ef4357c205557c97861d403twcons1_&ref_url=httpswww.click2houston.comnewslocal20241021helicopter-reportedly-crashes-in-houstons-east-end Houston Mayor John Whitmire, addressing the media at a late-night news conference, confirmed the fatalities and expressed relief that the accident did not result in more extensive damage. "We were very fortunate it didn't topple one way or the other," Whitmire stated, referring to the fallen tower.Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz stated that the helicopter was carrying four passengers, one of whom was a child whose age has not yet been determined. The identities of the victims will be disclosed only after their families have been notified. Chief Diaz also expressed his condolences, saying, "My prayers are with the families of the people in the helicopter.” https://youtube.com/shorts/gG4S35OL_8M?si=ra5ZvVKLEjmp42h9 The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provided preliminary information suggesting that the helicopter was operating as an air tour flight when it crashed under unknown circumstances. NTSB investigators are expected to arrive at the crash site on Monday to examine and recover the aircraft.Local authorities, including the Houston Fire Department and Houston Police Department, responded swiftly to the scene. Fire Chief Thomas Munoz confirmed that emergency responders arrived within minutes of the crash.The accident site is surrounded by residential areas, but fortunately, no structures on the ground other than the radio tower were damaged, and no injuries were reported among residents. Mayor Whitmire noted that a nearby gas tank was also unaffected by the crash.As the investigation progresses, local officials are urging residents who may come across debris from the crash to refrain from touching it and to contact the authorities immediately. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is joining the NTSB in investigating the cause of the crash. Read the full article

[theascenteast]

Staying Active

Having a pool and fitness center in a community offers residents the convenience of staying active without leaving home. The Ascent provides these amenities along with one-, two-, and three bedroom apartments in East Nashville, making it easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The refreshing swimming pool is perfect for relaxing on hot days, while the fully equipped fitness center allows for convenient workouts. Additionally, The Ascent ensures accessibility with features like disability access, making the community welcoming to all. Guest parking is available, making it easy to host friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a one-bedroom retreat or a spacious three-bedroom home, The Ascent offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in East Nashville.

The Transportation System in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee, has a well-connected transportation system that makes getting around easy. The city has several highways and roads, including Interstate 40 and Interstate 65, which help people travel quickly. There is also a public bus system called WeGo, which has many routes to take you around the city. For those who prefer biking or walking, Nashville has many bike lanes and pedestrian paths. If you need to travel long distances, Nashville International Airport offers flights to many destinations. The city’s transportation options help people move around comfortably and reach their destinations, whether they're going to work, school, or exploring Nashville's many attractions.

Honky Tonk Highway in Nashville, TN

Honky Tonk Highway is a famous area in Nashville, Tennessee, known for its lively country music scene. This street, mostly on Lower Broadway, is lined with bars and clubs that feature live music all day and night. The name "Honky Tonk" comes from a type of bar that plays country music and has a fun, casual atmosphere. People from all over come to Honky Tonk Highway to dance, listen to great music, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Nashville. It’s a place where you can hear some of the best country bands and experience the heart of Nashville's music culture. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Honky Tonk Highway is a must-see for music lovers.

Felon Accused of Robbing Nashville Couple at Gunpoint, Stealing Their RV

Recently, there was a troubling news story about a felon who is accused of robbing a couple in Nashville at gunpoint and stealing their RV. The felon allegedly threatened the couple with a gun, took their wallets, and drove away with their RV. This kind of crime is very serious because it puts people in danger and takes away their property. The police are working hard to find the person responsible and bring them to justice. The community is concerned and hoping that the stolen RV will be returned and that the couple will be safe. This situation reminds us of the importance of safety and the efforts of law enforcement to protect everyone.

Link to map

Honky Tonk Highway 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States Get on US-31E N/Ellington Pkwy from 3rd Ave N and US-31 N/US-41 N/US-431 N/James Robertson Pkwy 8 min (1.7 mi) Follow US-31E N/Ellington Pkwy. Take the exit toward Broadmoor from US-31E N/Ellington Pkwy 4 min (4.1 mi) Drive to Lemont Dr 43 sec (0.2 mi) The Ascent East Nashville 488 Lemont Dr, Nashville, TN 37216, United States

[dubai-properties-2024]

Unveiling the Grandeur of Ellington Belgrove Residences

Ellington Belgrove Residences is the latest masterpiece from the renowned Ellington Developers, a prominent real estate powerhouse in the United Arab Emirates. This luxurious residential project is set to redefine the landscape of Dubai's Meydan Horizon, offering an unparalleled living experience for discerning homeowners.

Ellington Belgrove Residences, Apartments and Designs

The Ellington Belgrove Residences boasts a stunning collection of 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, each designed to captivate the senses. These meticulously crafted homes feature sleek, contemporary interiors that seamlessly blend form and function, ensuring a harmonious and visually striking living environment.

Ellington Belgrove, Location & Nearby Places

Strategically located in the heart of Meydan Horizon, Ellington Belgrove Residences enjoys unparalleled connectivity and accessibility. Residents will find themselves just:

12 min away from the iconic Burj Khalifa. 15 min away from Dubai International Airport. 5 min away from the Dubai Mall. 8 min away from the Dubai Design District (D3). Belgrove Residences Homes Prices & Payment Plan

Ellington Belgrove Residences offers a range of competitively priced apartments to cater to diverse budgets and preferences. making it an attractive investment opportunity for both end-users and real estate enthusiasts. Flexible payment plans are available to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free purchasing process.

Amenities in Ellington Belgrove Residences

Residents of Ellington Belgrove will enjoy a truly holistic living experience, with an impressive array of resort-style amenities and lifestyle facilities. These include a state-of-the-art gym, a sparkling swimming pool, lush landscaped gardens, and dedicated children's play areas, all designed to enhance the overall well-being and leisure of the community.

About Ellington Developers

Ellington Developers is a renowned real estate developer in the UAE, known for its commitment to crafting exceptional residential projects that redefine luxury living. With a portfolio of prestigious developments, including Marina Vista, Belgravia, and Wilton Terraces, Ellington Developers has established itself as a trusted and respected name in the industry, consistently delivering innovative and visionary homes that cater to the discerning tastes of modern homeowners.

[lboogie1906]

John W. Mosley (May 19, 1907 – October 1, 1969) was a self-taught photojournalist who documented the everyday activities of the African-American community in Philadelphia for more than 30 years, a period including both WWII and the civil rights movement. His work was published in newspapers and magazines including The Philadelphia Tribune, The Pittsburgh Courier, and Jet magazine.

He has been called a “cultural warrior” for preserving a record of African American life in Pennsylvania, one which combats “negative stereotypes and false interpretations of African-American history and culture”. More than 300,000 of his photographs are included in the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection at Temple University. Exhibitions of his work have been shown at the Philadelphia International Airport and the Woodmere Art Museum.

He studied at Johnson C. Smith University.

He moved to Philadelphia as part of the Great Migration. He obtained a job as a professional photographer at Barksdale Photography Studio. He had a darkroom and photographic studio at the Christian Street YMCA. He traveled around Philadelphia on public transit, carrying his cameras and other equipment.

Proud of his heritage, he chose to portray the African American community positively at family, social, and cultural events that were part of daily life. He photographed individuals and families at weddings, picnics, churches, segregated beaches, sporting events, concerts, galas, and civil rights protests. During a time of racism and segregation, he emphasized the achievements of African American celebrities, athletes, and political leaders.

Among those he photographed were Duke Ellington, Cootie Williams, Wilt Chamberlain, Ora Washington, Paul Leroy Robeson, Billy Eckstine, Billie Holiday, Martin Luther King Jr., Cecil B. Moore, Marian Anderson, Eleanor Roosevelt, and President Richard Nixon.

He was the official photographer of the First African Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia.

He was one of the first African Americans to be a syndicated photographer. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[brookston]

Holidays 1.16

Holidays

Appreciate A Dragon Day

Beatles Day (UNESCO) [fake holiday based on erroneous story from Armenia Press]

Book Publishers Day

Certified Psychiatric Technicians Day

Chapultepec Peace Accords Anniversary Day (El Salvador)

Civil Service Day

Day of Lights (Elder Scrolls)

Day of Remembrance (Benin)

Day of Remembrance of Donetsk Airport Defenders (Ukraine)

Flag Day (Israel)

Gulf War Anniversary Day

Haru-No-Yabuiri (a.k.a. Day of No Work for the Overworked; Japan)

Inflatable Tire Day

Juuruku Nichi (Ryukyuan)

Kanuma Panda (a.k.a. Tusu Puja; Andhra Pradesh, India)

Laurent Kabila (Heroes’ Day; Congo)

Lead Day (French Republic)

National Boston Day

National Bouvier de Flandres Day

National Day of Peace (El Salvador)

National Day of Racial Healing

National Good Teen Day

National Nothing Day

National Religious Freedom Day

National Startup Day (India)

National Without a Scalpel Day

National Work at Home with Your Spouse Day

Psychiatric Technician’s Day

Quit Lying Day

Teacher’s Day (Myanmar, Thailand)

There’s No Business Like Show Business Day

Whiskey A-Go-Go Day

Zeta Phi Beta Day

Zuuruku Nichi (Okinawa Islands, Japan)

Food & Drink Celebrations

International Croquette Day (Spain)

International Hot and Spicy Food Day [also 8.19]

National Fig Newton Day

National Kava Day

National Quinoa Day

Prohibition Remembrance Day

3rd Tuesday in January

National Superfoods Day [3rd Tuesday]

Printing Ink Day [Tuesday closest to 16th]

Rid the World of Fad Diets and Gimmicks Day [3rd Tuesday]

Independence & Related Days

Tsardom of Muscovy (Established; 1547) [unrecognized]

Festivals Beginning January 16, 2024

Fort Wayne Farm Show (Fort Wayne, Indiana) [thru 1.18]

New York Corn & Soybean Winter Expo (Syracuse, New York)

NYC Restaurant Week (New York, New York) [thru 2.4]

Feast Days

Altar to Invite Harmony Throughout the Year Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Benjamin, Pope (Coptic)

Berard of Carbio (Christian; Saint)

Blaise (Armenian Apostolic)

Concordia (Ancient Roman Goddess of Harmonious Relations)

Day of Offerings to the Shemsu of Ra (Ancient Egypt)

Eve of Saint Anthony (observed with ritual bonfires in San Bartolomé de Pinares; Christian)

Festival of All Fairies (Shamanism)

Francesco Scavullo (Artology)

Fursey (Christian; Saint)

Joseph Vaz (Christian; Saint)

Henry the Hermit (Christian; Saint)

Hestia’s Day (Pagan)

Honoratus of Arles (Christian; Saint)

Lao-Tseu (Positivist; Saint)

Lucas Achtschellinck (Artology)

Macarius the Elder of Egypt (Christian; Saint)

Marcellus I, Pope (Christian; Saint)

Mr. McTaggart (Muppetism)

Night of the Lemur (Church of the SubGenius)

Nothingness Appreciation Day (Pastafarian)

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Coptic Church)

Thiruvalluvar Day (India)

Titian of Oderzo (Christian; Saint)

Uzhavar Thirunal (Tamil Nadu, India)

Vasant Panchami (Hindu)

Wind Gods of the Eight Directions Festival (Ancient Greece)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Taian (大安 Japan) [Lucky all day.]

Premieres

The Adventures of Puss in Boots (Animated Film; 2015)

After the Ball (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1956)

The Bird Store (Disney Silly Symphony Cartoon; 1932)

Black Lightning (TV Series; 2018)

Boop-Oop-a-Doop (Betty Boop Cartoon; 1932)

Captain Hareblower (WB MM Cartoon; 1954)

Circus Daze, featuring Bosko (MGM Happy Harmonies Cartoon; 1937)

The Corporation (Documentary Film; 2004)

The Famous 1938 Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert, recorded by Benny Goodman (Live Concert; 1938)

From Hopeless to Helpless, Parts 3 & 4 (Underdog Cartoon, S1, Eps. 31 & 32 1965)

Half Baked (Film; 1998)

Harper Valley P.T.A. (TV Series; 1981)

Hello, Dolly! (Broadway Musical; 1964)

Horse on Merry-Go-Round (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1938)

It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got that Swing), recorded by Duke Ellington (Song; 1932)

It’s Nice to Have a Mouse Around the House (WB LT Cartoon; 1965)

Jaws, by Peter Benchley (Novel; 1974)

The Life of Riley (Radio Series; 1944)

Lucille, recorded by Little Richard (Song; 1857)

Man in the Mirror, by Michael Jackson (Song; 1988)

Paddington (Animated Film; 2015)

The Saint in New York, by Leslie Charteris (Novel; 1935) [Saint #16]

Shakin’ All Over, by The Guess Who (Album; 1965)

Slay it with Flowers (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1943)

Son of Flubber (Film; 1963)

Star Trek: Voyager (TV Series; 1995)

Suffering’ Cats! (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1943)

Summer (Disney Silly Symphonies Cartoon; 1930)

Tokyo Godfathers (Animated Film; 2004)

Vagabond Voyage or The Castoffs Cast Off (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S3, Ep. 144; 1962)

The Village Smithy (Disney Cartoon; 1942)

Vincebus Eruptum, by Blue Cheer (Album; 1968)

Wailing Whale (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S3, Ep. 143; 1962)

Wayne (TV Series; 2019)

Whiskey A-Go-Go (Nightclub; 1963) [Los Angeles]

A Zoot Suit (For My Sunday Gal), recorded by Kay Kyser (Song; `942)

Today’s Name Days

Arnold, Maurus, Romedius (Austria)

Anastazija, Mavro, Pavao, Stošija (Croatia)

Alice (Czech Republic)

Maura (Denmark)

Salve, Salvi, Sõlmi (Estonia)

Ilmari, Ilmo (Finland)

Marcel (France)

Dietwald, Marcel, Tilman, Uli (Germany)

Gusztáv (Hungary)

Marcello (Italy)

Lida, Lidija, Lija (Latvia)

Marcelis, Norgailas, Norgailė (Lithuania)

Hilmar, Hjalmar (Norway)

Marcel, Waleriusz, Włodzimierz (Poland)

Petru (Romania)

Kristína (Slovakia)

Estefanía, Fulgencio, Marcelo (Spain)

Helmer, Hjalmar (Sweden)

Aaliyah, Aleah, Aliyah, Paine, Payne, Phillis, Phyllis, Pilar, Priscilla (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 16 of 2024; 350 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 2 of week 3 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Beth (Birch) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 12 (Yi-Chou), Day 6 (Ji-Mao)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 6 Shevat 5784

Islamic: 5 Rajab 1445

J Cal: 16 White; Twosday [16 of 30]

Julian: 3 January 2024

Moon: 34%: Waxing Crescent

Positivist: 16 Moses (1st Month) [Lao-Tseu]

Runic Half Month: Peorth (Womb, Dice Cup) [Day 7 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 27 of 89)

Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 26 of 31)

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 1.16

Holidays

Appreciate A Dragon Day

Beatles Day (UNESCO) [fake holiday based on erroneous story from Armenia Press]

Book Publishers Day

Certified Psychiatric Technicians Day

Chapultepec Peace Accords Anniversary Day (El Salvador)

Civil Service Day

Day of Lights (Elder Scrolls)

Day of Remembrance (Benin)

Day of Remembrance of Donetsk Airport Defenders (Ukraine)

Flag Day (Israel)

Gulf War Anniversary Day

Haru-No-Yabuiri (a.k.a. Day of No Work for the Overworked; Japan)

Inflatable Tire Day

Juuruku Nichi (Ryukyuan)

Kanuma Panda (a.k.a. Tusu Puja; Andhra Pradesh, India)

Laurent Kabila (Heroes’ Day; Congo)

Lead Day (French Republic)

National Boston Day

National Bouvier de Flandres Day

National Day of Peace (El Salvador)

National Day of Racial Healing

National Good Teen Day

National Nothing Day

National Religious Freedom Day

National Startup Day (India)

National Without a Scalpel Day

National Work at Home with Your Spouse Day

Psychiatric Technician’s Day

Quit Lying Day

Teacher’s Day (Myanmar, Thailand)

There’s No Business Like Show Business Day

Whiskey A-Go-Go Day

Zeta Phi Beta Day

Zuuruku Nichi (Okinawa Islands, Japan)

Food & Drink Celebrations

International Croquette Day (Spain)

International Hot and Spicy Food Day [also 8.19]

National Fig Newton Day

National Kava Day

National Quinoa Day

Prohibition Remembrance Day

3rd Tuesday in January

National Superfoods Day [3rd Tuesday]

Printing Ink Day [Tuesday closest to 16th]

Rid the World of Fad Diets and Gimmicks Day [3rd Tuesday]

Independence & Related Days

Tsardom of Muscovy (Established; 1547) [unrecognized]

Festivals Beginning January 16, 2024

Fort Wayne Farm Show (Fort Wayne, Indiana) [thru 1.18]

New York Corn & Soybean Winter Expo (Syracuse, New York)

NYC Restaurant Week (New York, New York) [thru 2.4]

Feast Days

Altar to Invite Harmony Throughout the Year Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Benjamin, Pope (Coptic)

Berard of Carbio (Christian; Saint)

Blaise (Armenian Apostolic)

Concordia (Ancient Roman Goddess of Harmonious Relations)

Day of Offerings to the Shemsu of Ra (Ancient Egypt)

Eve of Saint Anthony (observed with ritual bonfires in San Bartolomé de Pinares; Christian)

Festival of All Fairies (Shamanism)

Francesco Scavullo (Artology)

Fursey (Christian; Saint)

Joseph Vaz (Christian; Saint)

Henry the Hermit (Christian; Saint)

Hestia’s Day (Pagan)

Honoratus of Arles (Christian; Saint)

Lao-Tseu (Positivist; Saint)

Lucas Achtschellinck (Artology)

Macarius the Elder of Egypt (Christian; Saint)

Marcellus I, Pope (Christian; Saint)

Mr. McTaggart (Muppetism)

Night of the Lemur (Church of the SubGenius)

Nothingness Appreciation Day (Pastafarian)

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Coptic Church)

Thiruvalluvar Day (India)

Titian of Oderzo (Christian; Saint)

Uzhavar Thirunal (Tamil Nadu, India)

Vasant Panchami (Hindu)

Wind Gods of the Eight Directions Festival (Ancient Greece)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Taian (大安 Japan) [Lucky all day.]

Premieres

The Adventures of Puss in Boots (Animated Film; 2015)

After the Ball (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1956)

The Bird Store (Disney Silly Symphony Cartoon; 1932)

Black Lightning (TV Series; 2018)

Boop-Oop-a-Doop (Betty Boop Cartoon; 1932)

Captain Hareblower (WB MM Cartoon; 1954)

Circus Daze, featuring Bosko (MGM Happy Harmonies Cartoon; 1937)

The Corporation (Documentary Film; 2004)

The Famous 1938 Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert, recorded by Benny Goodman (Live Concert; 1938)

From Hopeless to Helpless, Parts 3 & 4 (Underdog Cartoon, S1, Eps. 31 & 32 1965)

Half Baked (Film; 1998)

Harper Valley P.T.A. (TV Series; 1981)

Hello, Dolly! (Broadway Musical; 1964)

Horse on Merry-Go-Round (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1938)

It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got that Swing), recorded by Duke Ellington (Song; 1932)

It’s Nice to Have a Mouse Around the House (WB LT Cartoon; 1965)

Jaws, by Peter Benchley (Novel; 1974)

The Life of Riley (Radio Series; 1944)

Lucille, recorded by Little Richard (Song; 1857)

Man in the Mirror, by Michael Jackson (Song; 1988)

Paddington (Animated Film; 2015)

The Saint in New York, by Leslie Charteris (Novel; 1935) [Saint #16]

Shakin’ All Over, by The Guess Who (Album; 1965)

Slay it with Flowers (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1943)

Son of Flubber (Film; 1963)

Star Trek: Voyager (TV Series; 1995)

Suffering’ Cats! (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1943)

Summer (Disney Silly Symphonies Cartoon; 1930)

Tokyo Godfathers (Animated Film; 2004)

Vagabond Voyage or The Castoffs Cast Off (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S3, Ep. 144; 1962)

The Village Smithy (Disney Cartoon; 1942)

Vincebus Eruptum, by Blue Cheer (Album; 1968)

Wailing Whale (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S3, Ep. 143; 1962)

Wayne (TV Series; 2019)

Whiskey A-Go-Go (Nightclub; 1963) [Los Angeles]

A Zoot Suit (For My Sunday Gal), recorded by Kay Kyser (Song; `942)

Today’s Name Days

Arnold, Maurus, Romedius (Austria)

Anastazija, Mavro, Pavao, Stošija (Croatia)

Alice (Czech Republic)

Maura (Denmark)

Salve, Salvi, Sõlmi (Estonia)

Ilmari, Ilmo (Finland)

Marcel (France)

Dietwald, Marcel, Tilman, Uli (Germany)

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Hilmar, Hjalmar (Norway)

Marcel, Waleriusz, Włodzimierz (Poland)

Petru (Romania)

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Estefanía, Fulgencio, Marcelo (Spain)

Helmer, Hjalmar (Sweden)

Aaliyah, Aleah, Aliyah, Paine, Payne, Phillis, Phyllis, Pilar, Priscilla (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 16 of 2024; 350 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 2 of week 3 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Beth (Birch) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 12 (Yi-Chou), Day 6 (Ji-Mao)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 6 Shevat 5784

Islamic: 5 Rajab 1445

J Cal: 16 White; Twosday [16 of 30]

Julian: 3 January 2024

Moon: 34%: Waxing Crescent

Positivist: 16 Moses (1st Month) [Lao-Tseu]

Runic Half Month: Peorth (Womb, Dice Cup) [Day 7 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 27 of 89)

Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 26 of 31)

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Videos: “Space to Ground” & other space habitat reports – Oct.25.2023

This week's selection of videos about space stations and living in space including NASA's latest Space to Ground report for the International Space Station: https://youtu.be/EwTZ6ur9ZeE ** Expedition 70 Space Station Crew Talks with 2023 ASCEND Conference Oct. 23, 2023 - NASA Video Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 70 Flight Engineers Loral O’Hara and Jasmin Moghbeli of NASA discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview Oct. 23 with ASCEND conference attendees in Las Vegas. O’Hara and Moghbeli are in the midst of a long-duration mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration missions. Such research benefits people on Earth and lays the groundwork for future human exploration through the agency’s Artemis missions, which will send astronauts to the Moon to prepare for future expeditions to Mars. https://youtu.be/3UG4jk-qQIo ** Expedition 70 Space Station Crew Talks with Fox News Digital Originals, Yahoo News - Oct. 17, 2023 - NASA Video Aboard the International Space Station, Expedition 70 Flight Engineers Jasmin Moghbeli of NASA and Andy Mogensen of ESA (European Space Agency) discussed life and work aboard the orbital outpost during an in-flight interview Oct. 17 with Fox News Digital and Yahoo News. Mogensen and Moghbeli are in the midst of a long-duration mission living and working aboard the microgravity laboratory to advance scientific knowledge and demonstrate new technologies for future human and robotic exploration missions. Such research benefits people on Earth and lays the groundwork for future human exploration through the agency’s Artemis missions, which will send astronauts to the Moon to prepare for future expeditions to Mars. https://youtu.be/s5AruT_cnBk ** Science Launching on SpaceX's 29th Cargo Resupply Mission to the Space Station - NASA The 29th SpaceX commercial resupply services (CRS) mission for NASA carries scientific experiments and technology demonstrations, including studies of enhanced optical communications and measurement of atmospheric waves. The uncrewed SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station from the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida no earlier than Nov. 5. Details: https://go.nasa.gov/402KJSA https://youtu.be/UcaloWLCe3w ** Meet Ax-3 - Axiom Space Meet the Ax-3 Crew! Four Astronauts Five Nations The first all European commercial astronaut mission Redefining the pathway to LEO https://youtu.be/zZZ6Zh9NtUM See also Axiom Space Hab One Pressure Vessel Nears Completion | Aviation Week Network/ The structure forms the basis of the first of two inhabitable modules that are to be connected to the International Space Station (ISS). The structure is being built in Turin, Italy, by Thales Alenia Space. “The first module shell is effectively completed,” Jason Aspiotis, Axiom’s director of in-space infrastructure and logistics, said at AIAA’s Ascend conference here on Oct. 23. “A lot of the subsystems that will populate the underlying structure–think about life support systems, avionics, propulsion, , power, communications, all that good stuff–we’re developing in a lab in Houston.” Hab One hatches have also been fabricated, tested and prepared for delivery to Thales Alenia Space to support Hab One pressure testing, the company says. The first module is to be shipped to Houston by 2024 for final assembly and integration at Axiom Space’s factory at Ellington Airport. The company plans to launch the Hab One module in 2026. ** Shenzhou-17 crew announced - SciNews On 25 October 2023, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) has announced the crew for the Shenzhou-17 mission: Hongbo Tang (汤洪波, commander), Shengjie Tang (唐胜杰) and Xinlin Jiang (江新林). The Long March-2F Y17 (长征二号F遥十七) launch vehicle will launch the Shenzhou-17 (神舟十七) crew spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, Gansu Province, China, on 26 October 2023, at 03:14 UTC (11:14 China Standard Time). Shenzhou-17 is the sixth crew of three astronauts on a mission to the China Space Station (中国空间站). https://youtu.be/pqbe1NccFnc See also: Shenzhou-17 Crew to Launch to Tiangong Space Station | NASASpaceFlight.com. ** SR Academy Space Habitats Committee Webinar, with Werner Grandl and Jerry Stone - Space Renaissance Living in space in a zero- or low-gravity environment like the Moon or Mars causes danger to human health, such as bone demineralization or muscle atrophy. In the long run space habitats need gravity simulation by rotating around their main axis. The AGOS (Artificial Gravity Orbital Station) project was designed as a rotating space station and a possible successor of the present ISS. The station is built of cylindrical modules and a structural framework. SpaceX Falcon launchers are proposed to transport the modules to Low Earth Orbit. The initial stage 1 of AGOS has a mass of 270 metric tons and a diameter of 102 meters. 24 crew members can live and work in a 0.9 g environment. In the far future, Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs) can be mined to utilize their mineral resources. When the mining process is finished, we can build a rotating habitat inside a hollow asteroid. As an example, we have taken the asteroid 2008EV5 with a diameter of approx. 450 meters. A toroidal structure of 240 m diameter is rotating inside the asteroid´s hull. The stony hull provides shelter against radiation and meteorites. 2,000 inhabitants can live on the inner surface of the torus. Nutrition is provided by vertical farming and aquaculture. In the coming centuries, we can utilize about 10,000 NEAs for mining and use some hundreds of them to carry human habitats. https://www.youtube.com/live/V_YKlk9UFIc ** Live Video from the International Space Station (Official NASA Stream) - NASA Watch live video from the International Space Station, including inside views when the crew aboard the space station is on duty. Views of Earth are also streamed from an external camera located outside of the space station. During periods of signal loss due to handover between communications satellites, a blue screen is displayed. The space station orbits Earth about 250 miles (425 kilometers) above the surface. An international partnership of five space agencies from 15 countries operates the station, and it has been continuously occupied since November 2000. It's a microgravity laboratory where science, research, and human innovation make way for new technologies and research breakthroughs not possible on Earth. More: https://go.nasa.gov/3CkVtC8 Did you know you can spot the station without a telescope? It looks like a fast-moving star, but you have to know when to look up. Sign up for text messages or email alerts to let you know when (and where) to spot the station and wave to the crew: https://spotthestation.nasa.gov https://www.youtube.com/live/xAieE-QtOeM?feature=share ====

ISS after undocking of STS-132 === Amazon Ads === Lego Ideas International Space Station 21321 Toy Blocks, Present, Space, Boys, Girls, Ages 16 and Up  ==== Outpost in Orbit: A Pictorial & Verbal History of the Space Station  Read the full article