#Houston Open Air Bands

[justmeinadaze]

I Have Nothing (If I Don't Have You) (Steddie X You)

A/N: Like I said last week, I was watching the music video for "Queen of the Night" by Whitney Houston from the soundtrack of this movie and it gave me this Steddie idea.

I have a few ideas I can take this! I seriously love protective Steddie. Probably something to do with my PTSD and need to feel safe lol Anyway... I hope you enjoy it! I dedicate this to @unfocused81 <3

Warnings: No smut (yet😈) but angst for sure. Security Steddie and Singer female reader. It is mentioned that Y/N does drink excessively and do drugs. Her boyfriend is a douchebag and assaults her (mentions of smacking and grabbing her, yelling at her, and calling her names) that results in Steddie intervening. There is also a bit of a riot at one of shows that they protect her from (kind of like that scene in the movie where people jump on stage and chaos ensues).

I wouldn't really call this dark themes but reader definitely has some things going on and is struggling a lot right now.

Work count: 5906

“What kind of security work have you guys done before?” 

Your manager leans against the outside of his desk as he continues to scan through the messages on his phone.

“Oh, um, we’ve done a lot before for the bar in our town and most recently a rock band in—”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah.”, the manager cuts Steve off as he speaks. “That’s all well and good. Look, I’m going to level with you. This is essentially expensive babysitting. Y/N is a handful. Our last security detail quit when her last party at her house caused a riot in the streets of LA.”

“A riot?”, Eddie turned to his friend and raised an eyebrow inquisitively. 

The guy sets his phone down, sighing with impatience. “Yes. Obviously, you two don’t read or watch the news…which is good. Saves me the headache. Now, do you want the job or not?”

Both boys glance at each other before looking towards the man again. “Um, yeah sure. I mean it pays, right?”

“That’s the spirit. Ok, she’s at the studio downstairs right now recording…or at least that’s what she’s supposed to be doing. Go introduce yourselves. Glad to have you aboard.”, he rolls his eyes as he shoos them out of his office.

“Steve are you sure about this?”, Eddie asks as they head for the elevator. 

“Yeah. Come on, Munson. This is our ticket to high-rate clients and more money! We can handle one little girl.”

As soon as they get off on the right floor, they are met with extremely loud music and giggles from the studio room. A tall, lanky kid leans back in his chair extending his hand to greet both boys. 

“Hey, are ya’ll the security? I’m Devon. She’s in there ‘getting inspired’.” Their eyes follow his finger as he points behind the glass where you and some of your friends were strewn around the floor. “Good luck, gentlemen.”, he sings. 

Both men carefully tip toe around arms and legs to find you with your eyes closed, a half smirk painted across your lips. 

“Uh, Miss Y/L/N? I’m Steve Harrington and this is Eddie Munson. We’re your new personal security guards.”

“Hmm…sounds sexy.”, you slur. Your glassy, drug fueled eyes look up to meet theirs. “At least Jack hired some good-looking ones this time. Who is who?”

“Maybe, if you stood up and actually greeted us, you would have heard who is who the first time.”, Eddie chided. 

Your eyes fully open as your head tilts in his direction. No one ever had the balls to scold you like that since you became famous. It was usually “Yes ma’am” this or “Anything you want, ma’am. We’ll make it happen.”. Rising to your feet, you fully take them in through your haze. 

They both were attractive especially with that air of confidence you hadn’t seen in a long time. Your current boyfriend was cocky but definitely not confident. Everyone else around you seemed so fucking timid and you hated it. 

“Eddie. Steve.”, Steve repeated, pointed to his friend then himself. 

He was dressed head to toe in what you would call “conventional” clothes; nothing designer or anything to make him stand out. You could tell under the button up white, short sleeve shirt that he did have muscles that could protect you physically if need be. The jeans and sneakers he donned didn’t give you any new information that could tell you something about him except he probably didn’t make a whole lot of money. 

Eddie was more or less the same with a much more grunge fashion sense that, to you, he pulled off well. You pointed to his Metallica t-shirt with your finger. 

“My music isn’t like theirs. It might make your ears bleed.”

“As long as I can still see you and see you’re safe, I think I’ll survive.”

He’s quick witted. I like that…

“Ok. We’ll give it a try. Tomorrow, you’ll meet me at my house and I can tell you more about what you’ll be doing.”

***

“Steven Harrington, have you read half this stuff?”, Eddie sighs as he leans forward and places his elbows on his knees as he points at things on his laptop.

“She’s been arrested twice; once for possession and another for disorderly conduct where she was found having sex with someone while she was drunk in public. The cops have been called to her house multiple times due to, honestly, take your fucking pick. Her boyfriend was arrested just last week for sucker punching one of her fans for ‘getting too close’. How are we supposed to protect someone who invites all this chaos into her life.”

“I don’t know, Ed. The same way you protect anyone I guess.”, Steve leans back on the couch as he takes a sip from his bottle of beer. “Again, this is just a steppingstone. I’m sure after a few months of handling her, any number of high value agencies will want to hire us. WHICH MEANS…”, he glances towards Eddie. “…you need to control your Dom voice.”

The metalhead chuckles as he leans back as well. “It’s going to be hard with a fucking brat like her. Dude, she didn’t even have the common courtesy to say hello.”

“I know… I know… but just, try. For me?”

#########

It takes you awhile to open the door when they knock but when you finally do, you look completely hung over. 

“Yeah, come…come in. Do you want something to drink? Jack? Vodka? I have them all.”

“It’s 10am.”, Steve responds as he looks at his watch. 

You raise an eyebrow at him before heading for the kitchen and grabbing the whole bottle of Jack Daniels. “If you’re boring, Eddie. Just say that.”

“Steve. I’m Steve.”

“Right now, I don’t care—”

“We can tell.”, Eddie growls.

You blink as you look up at him. You’ve never wanted to toy with a man so bad in your life. He wasn’t even trying to hide that your disrespect was bothering him and honestly you couldn’t get enough. 

“I’m sorry, gentlemen. I don’t do mornings. Unfortunately, my manager insists on scheduling interviews for me that require me to up at this ungodly hour.” They watch you as you slump onto the couch and throw your arm over your eyes. “So, how much did Jack tell you?”

“Uh, just the basics. We watch out for you.”

“Good. It’s just following me around and making sure I don’t get swarmed or murdered. I’ll give you guys a key to my house before you leave today and when I stay at hotels I’ll do the same. You’ll most likely be staying in the same room as me anyway so…”

The sound of banging on your front door makes you cringe. “I guess I’ll get it.”, Eddie sighs as Steve’s eyes follow him. “Your makeup people are here, your highness.”

A big grin spreads across your face as you turn your head to look over at them. “I like him. Steven, you need to start stepping it up or he’ll become my favorite.”

The metalhead lazily glances towards his friend with playful wide eyes. “Well, lucky me.”

***

As snotty as your attitude was, they couldn’t deny how beautiful you were especially after your prep team was done putting you together. The makeup hid all damage you had done to yourself the night before and the outfit they had you in sexily showed off all your curves. Your eyes shifted to them, watching them as they looked around.

“No one is going to shoot me in here, boys.”

“Hm. You never know.”, Eddie exhales as he points to things. “Someone could come in through that back door behind you or because no one checks any of these people’s IDs, someone could sneak in pretending to be a hair stylist and take you out like that.”, he snaps his fingers. 

“Bags that hold all the beauty and camera equipment are big enough to hold even a rifle let alone a handgun. That’s implying someone would want to shoot you instead of stabbing or blowing you up.”, Steve followed. 

“Wow. Just charming.”

“It’s our job, Miss Y/L/N.”

“I think due to the circumstances you can call me Y/N.”, you grin. 

The producer gets your attention, walking you through the questions that would be asked and how the interview would go. The boys watched you in amazement as your personality practically changed when the camera went live. No one would ever be able to tell what you did behind the scenes or any other narrative then the one you provided. 

An hour later and after many questions, the interview ended and your face fell. 

“God, I need a drink.”

“Can we at least go over the tour first?”, your manager whined. 

“Baby!”

You excitedly got up and ran to your boyfriend’s arms. “Simon!”

Everyone in the room cringed at the heavy smacking sounds that left you two as he continued to sloppily kiss your lips. 

“Who are the new guys?”

“Babe, these are the new security guys. This is Eddie and Steve.”

They stand up to shake his hand but as Steve extends his palm the man looks down at it like the gesture was beneath him. “Yeah, listen boys, hands off, okay? She’s mine.”, you giggle as he slaps your ass.

“Come on, baby. I got a surprise for you.” You squeal as he lifts you over his shoulder and carries you towards your bedroom. 

“Y/N! We still have things to go over!”, Jack shouts as the door closes loudly. 

#########

“I want to go home, Steven. It’s 2am and they’ve been fucking in there all god damn day. At this point we shouldn’t have a client anymore because he killed her by not giving her any food or fucking water. It definitely won’t be due to her climaxing because I haven’t heard that happen yet.”

“We can’t leave until he does.”, Steve sighs. “Or she dismisses us for the evening.”

As if on cue, Simon saunters past them into the kitchen, casually opening your fridge, and begins chugging from a jug of orange juice. “Um, I’m pretty sure you two can leave. She’s not even here.”

“What?!”

“Yeah, I’m assuming she climbed out the window after I crashed. She does that to escape the security teams. It’s kind of a rite of passage honestly.”

“Where would she go?”, Eddie growls. 

“Um, there’s a bar about a mile up the road. She likes to walk there for some reason.”

***

“So, pretty lady. Do you want to come back to my place tonight?”

“Ugh, no. Get off me. I just want to drink in peace.”

“Oh, come on, honey.”, the man slurred. 

“Hey! The lady said no.”, Steve’s voice echoed through the bar as he starred the man down. “Leave. Now.”

The patron held up his hands defensively, staggering back towards his table. 

“Come on, Y/N. Time for you to go home.”, Eddie motioned for the bartender to stop serving you as the other boy reached into your purse to pay him. 

“You’re my security. Not my fucking dad. I can stay here and drink if I want.”

“You’re at a bar in a nightie, shorts, and flip flops at 2 in the morning. It’s a safety concern.”

“Oh shit.”, you giggle. “I am in my nightie.” Steve roughly grips your arm and tugs you out the door towards his car. “Let me go, you fucking dick.”

A switch flips in the man’s brain; he can’t help it. For the past couple of days, he’s tolerated your disrespect but like Eddie, he hated it. They both could handle a lot but you were pushing them too far. Still holding onto your wrist, he twirls you towards the vehicle till your back hits the door. 

“Now, listen here because I’m only going to say this once. We’ve handled the tone and the blatant disregard for what we do but it ends now. Our job is to keep you safe not fucking babysit some spoiled, rich washed-up singer. This is the last time you pull a stunt like this; do you understand me?” 

Steve’s body was so close to yours you could feel his angry breath fanning your face. It had been ages since someone put you in your place like this and you’d be lying if you didn’t say you were a bit turned on. A new feeling washed over you though as your eyes scanned his face. For the first time since you entered this industry, you actually felt safe. 

They weren’t afraid to be blunt with you which compared to everyone else in your life was a nice reprieve. You knew 90% of the people in your life, given the chance, would sell you out in a heartbeat but would still stand there and tell you how perfect you were. 

“Yes.”

“Yes, what?” Eddie’s voice startled you, completely unaware he was standing beside you with his hands in his pockets, glaring down at you with those same angry eyes. 

“Yes, I understand.”

“Good. Now get in the car.” 

#############

That following morning, they half expected to be fired but were surprised when you opened the front door as soon as they knocked. 

“We have to go to the studio first and then I have to get ready for the gig tonight.”, you mumbled as you swished around them, trying to get in the backseat of his car to no avail. “Can you open the door…please?”

Eddie caught it in your tone first…something wasn’t right and it had nothing to do with them. 

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. Can we just…”, you gesture towards the car.

“HEY! When you get back tonight make sure it’s with a better fucking attitude!”, Simon yells from your front door. 

“Well maybe I won’t come back, you free loading mama’s boy!”

“Stupid bitch should learn how to talk to a man.”, he muttered under his breath as he slammed the door shut.

Steve and Eddie exchange a look before the metalhead speaks to you. “Is that something we need to handle?”

“No. He’s just being a fucking prick.”

He opens your door and you slowly slide in before both men do the same. As the car begins to move, Steve keeps checking on you in his rearview mirror. Your sunglass covered eyes remain focused on the window as you stare out into the California streets. 

“I’m sorry about yesterday. About leaving and keeping you guys out late when you didn’t have to. Simon just pissed me off and…”

“Does he talk to you like that often?”

“No. Sometimes he’s an asshole.” You flash them a sassy smirk that grows when you see Eddie try and hide his own at your sarcasm. “He’s just…hot headed, you know? He’s been through a lot.”

“And you haven’t?”

Your eyes swivel to Steve before glancing down at your hands. “Nothing I can’t handle.”

“He shouldn’t be talking to you like that, Y/N.”

“Yeah, well, neither should I so…”

“Just because you have an attitude doesn’t mean you deserve to be treated like trash. Maybe you just need someone stronger who can handle it and not take it personally.”

“Oh? And who would that be, Steve? You?”

“Aw, Munson, that’s cute. She thinks we can’t handle her.”

“Y/N, sweetheart, we’ve dealt with worse than you.”, he smiles as he turns around in his seat. “It’s you that can’t handle us. Thankfully though we aren’t in a relationship so we’ll never get to find out.”

“I never say never, gentlemen.”

****

After going over the tour dates, everything you would be doing, and everything you need, your next stop was the venue you would be performing at tonight. 

Eddie cringed as the feedback of the mic echoed around the building.

“Hey! Try plugging it into the correct port!” The young man shrugged his shoulders causing the metalhead to go over and show the boy what he was doing wrong.

“Let me guess? Rock and Roll drummer in a Metallica cover band?”, you grin at him as the mic starts picking up your voice perfectly. 

“Guitarist and our own band, not a cover band.”

“What about you, Steve? Are you musically inclined?”

“Unfortunately, no.”

“What are you good at?”

“Babysitting.”, he raised his eyebrow in your direction making your smile grow. 

As the additional security from the venue finally arrived, you watched with fascination as the guys took on a more authoritative tone, telling each person where they would need to be. Time slowly dwindled till it was about twenty minutes before the show. You began pacing as you shook out your preshow jitters.

“Hey, they say they are ready for you to head towards the stage.”

You jumped at the sound of Steve’s voice. “Goddamn it! Okay, fucking thank you!” His eyes narrowed in your direction as he came in and closed the door behind him. “Can I help you with anything else?!”

“Are you alright?”

“Jesus fucking Christ, you’re not my father, Steven, or my friend. Get the fuck out! I’ll be right out!”

The boy bites his bottom lip as he nods his head. “Yes ma’am.” As he starts to open the door, he pauses turning to face you again. “You look really beautiful, by the way. Your voice is amazing. Eddie and I have actually never heard any of your songs before today. This will be our first concert. I’m excited to see it.” 

Your wide, glassy eyes turn to look at him as he slowly begins to close the door again. 

“Steve! Thank you…”

##########

That night you gave it your all and then some. Occasionally, you would glance down at the bottom of the stage watching as Steve and Eddie’s demeanor remained focused on the task at hand. Sometimes, however, you would notice a foot tap to the beat or a head would bob to your lyrics. If this was the first time they were attending a Y/N concert, you wanted them to enjoy it and show them what you bring to the entertainment table. 

So many people when you were starting out told you that you would never make it. That your dream of becoming a singer was a pipe dream for people with “actual talent”. Since day one you always felt like you had to prove yourself, hell, even before you started singing. In your house growing up you felt like you had to fight to be seen. 

Once you crossed that threshold, everything came easier but you never stopped fighting. Fighting the fear of being nothing again, the knowledge that everyone in your circle just wanted a piece of you and what you earned. Fighting to keep everyone happy including yourself. The alcohol and drugs helped immensely or at least that’s what you believed. You thought it helped numb your brain and the pain so you could just get through every day. 

When Eddie sassed you in the studio, you knew he was different. For a while you couldn’t get a read on Steve until that night outside of the bar. The fact that neither of them had asked you to hear their demo tape or hit on you was already a point in their favor but they genuinely seemed to want to protect you so you wanted to return the favor in some way, your voice.

When the concert ended, they snuck a peak at you. Eddie was never a fan of the type of music you sang but he couldn’t deny that what you did sing went straight to his heart. Steve noticed that while you sang, it was like you transported to a different place. You seemed calmer and more in tune with yourself, making you seem more confident than when you weren’t. 

This was the first time since they met you that you genuinely seemed happy. 

Something in the atmosphere changed. Maybe it was too many booze served at the bar or just the energy of the evening but people in the crowd started chanting for an encore. You were exhausted having gone longer on your set then you were supposed to already. You gave the crowd your best smile, thanking them for coming out, and telling them how much you loved their support. 

A fan jumped on to the stage and Eddie was quick to pull him back down. Panic set in as you watched the crowd start to fight with each other and the security team jump into action. The metalhead was in front of you and you hastily gripped his arm as he scanned the area trying to find Steve. 

“Harrington?!”

After tapping his shoulder, you pointed to the corner near a wall where you saw the boy in a fist fight of his own. Eddie pushed you towards the side of the stage behind a curtain.

“Don’t move! I’ll be right back, ok?!”, he shouted over the chaos as you gave him a firm nod. 

You watched as he jumped off the platform, running to pull the man off his friend and shoving him to where you were hiding. Steve didn’t even hesitate as he lifted you into his arms and they both ran down the hallway. They didn’t stop until they reached their car and placed you in the back seat, him climbing in with you as Eddie sped away. 

“Wait…what about Jack…and everyone else?”

“No. We have to get you out and away from the building especially during a scene like that.” Steve searched through his jacket pocket for a tissue, placing it against his nose when he finally finds one. 

“Are-are you okay?”

“Yeah. Fucking asshole got me good.”

About a mile down the road, Eddie parked the car into a gas station and got out to check you both over. “What happened, Harrington? Let someone get the best of you?”, Eddie chuckled. 

“Dude, they cornered me so fast especially after I pulled him off of the venue’s security guy.”

“Did I do that? Did I do something wrong?” Their head swivel around to look at your frightened frame. “Th-that’s never happened before…I-I-I…”

“Hey, hey, hey Y/N. It’s ok. You didn’t do anything wrong. I seriously think it was just…”, Eddie shrugs. “Beer and a packed in place. People just being…too rowdy. It happens but that’s what we’re here for.”

The man throws his arms up in surprise when you suddenly tackle him, wrapping your arms around his waist as you press your head into his chest. 

“Thank you��so much.” You let him go as you turn to give Steve a hug as well. “I’m so sorry you got hurt.”

When you started to pull back, his arms came down to hold you to him. “Hey, better me than you.”, he gently sighs, “Come on. Let’s get you home.”

#######

“Oh my god! What the fuck happened?! Baby, are you okay?” Simon ran to you from his place on your couch as you and the guys entered your house. 

“The concert ended a bit roughly but I’m ok. Really…”

“Isn’t it your job to fucking protect her!?”

“Yes and we did that.”

“Are you fucking kidding me?! Look at her! She’s a mess and she’s shaking!” Your boyfriend charged up to Steve who glared down at him as he continued to yell in his face.”

“Simon, leave them alone. Please, I just want to get this crap off and go to bed.”

Eddie gripped his friend’s arm as he spoke to you. “Is there anything else you need, Y/N? Do you feel safe enough for us to leave and let you rest?”

“Of course, she fucking does. I can take care of her.”

Your eyes met theirs as you nodded. “Thank you.”

“We’ll talk to Jack and everyone in the morning.” The metalhead tugs at Steve forcing him to back down from your boyfriend. He flashes you one more cursory glance before turning around and leaving you for the night. 

###########

“You boys did good last night. I don’t know what happened but you knew what to do.” Jack gave them a smile as he nodded his head in approval. “Please keep up that vigilance next week when we go on tour. I think—”

“Wait. You’re still doing the tour next week?”

Your manager looked at Eddie in confusion. “Yes? Why wouldn’t we?”

“I mean…she just went through a pretty traumatic event. I couldn’t imagine getting back up on a stage immediately after something like that.”

“Yeah, well, your security not a musician so—”

“I actually am but whatever.”

Jack sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose as speaks to you. “Do you feel like you need more time?”

You didn’t even hear the man’s question. Since they picked you up and brought you to your managers office, you had been uncharacteristically quiet. You were thinking about everything including what transpired last night. It WAS incredibly scary but they did pull through and keep you safe. Not only did they look after you but each other; you appreciated that loyalty. 

Now as Eddie defended you, thinking of your well-being, you felt yourself spiraling at the action. No one cared about you this much and they barely even knew you. What was their end game? What made them tick? What made them this way? Was it genuine or was it just their jobs?

“Y/N!”

“Huh? Oh, um, I mean…a week would be fine…especially if I can just rest…”

“Yeah, sure, whatever.”, Jack responded in a nonchalant tone. “Go ahead and take the week but be back here on Thursday so we can go over everything.”

You nod as you head out of the office with your protectors in tow. “Hey, um, did you guys want to go get some lunch or something?”

***

“So, why security?”, you ask as you bite into your burger.

“Like Steve said, I mean, we’re good at it.”

“Well, good at protecting people. Security work just allows us to get paid for it.”, the man smiles as he takes a sip from his drink. 

“And you two have been friends for a while?”

“Since high school.”

“And where was that exactly?”

“You’re asking a lot of questions, sweetheart. Can I ask why?”, Eddie playfully narrows his eyes in your direction making you smile. 

“I just…you two are very different then people we usually hire. I just want to know more about you.”

“Different how?”, Steve asks.

“I don’t know. You just seem to genuinely care.”

“If the people around you don’t genuinely care then you need to hire some new people.”

“Yeah, well, that’s hard to find in this industry.” You reach in your purse and raise a flask in their direction as you pour a bit into your coffee.

“Is that why you do things like that?”, Eddie gestures towards you drink. 

“No, baby. I do things like this to keep me from going insane.”

“How about you do the healthy thing and stand up for yourself?”

You angerly turn your attention to Steve. “I can stand up for myself.”

“Oh? Is that why you let your manager, boyfriend, and entourage talk down to you the way they do?”

“Go fuck yourself, alright?! Look, I can stick up for myself and say what’s on my mind. For example, you two are complete fucking assholes.”, you growl. “I’m done eating. I want to go home.”

Eddie smirks as the other boy sighs. “Such a whiney, spoiled brat. I swear.” The metalhead pulls out his wallet, throwing money on the table as they both get to their feet. “Your highness.”, he gestures towards the front door. 

“I’m not whiney or spoiled. I worked hard to get here and I’m not going to let you or anyone talk to me like that.”

“Yet you do.”, Steve retorts as he opens the back door to his car. You roughly reach across, slamming it shut. “I thought you wanted to go home.”

“Apologize to me.”

“For what? Pointing out the obvious? Frankly, I don’t get why you have such a low opinion of yourself. You’re beautiful, talented, and you have such a gorgeous voice yet you pump yourself with poison and let these people take advantage of you. Why?”

You exhale as you look towards the ground. “I can handle it.”

“You say that a lot.” Eddie folds his arms on top of the car as he leans onto his hands. 

“Because I can.”

“By getting wasted?”

“My personal life is none of your fucking concern.”, you growl. 

“You’re right.” Steve opens the back door again and this time you climb in. “You just seem like you deserve better.”

##########

“I swear, man, that girl is going to get us killed. Or put in prison after WE kill her.”, Eddie chuckles from his place on the sofa. 

“I kind of like her.” The metalhead coyly raises his eyebrow at his friend. “Oh, come on, like you don’t?”, Steve sighs as he leans back against the couch. “There’s something hidden under all that sass and alcohol…I saw it when she was singing. I’d love to get to know that part of her better.”

Eddie grinned as he reached for his phone, smile fading when he saw the ID. 

“Hello. This is Eddie Munson.”

“E-Eddie? I, um, I think—FUCK YOU! —I need help.”

“You stupid bitch! Open this fucking door right fucking now!”

Eddie ross to his feet, tugging at Steve’s arm as he searched for his keys. “Where are you?”

“I-I’m in my bedroom. Simon and I got into a fight and-and he’s wasted. Pl-please…I’m scared. He’s never been this angry.”

Steve had already started the car, speeding towards your house. “Hey, it’s ok, sweetheart. We’re on the way, alright? Just stay on the phone with me, ok?”

“I’m sorry I was so mean to you guys today. Fuck… you two seem s-so different. I-I just…”

“Y/N don’t even worry about that right now. Everything’s going to be alright. We’re almost there.”

“You think you’re so high and mighty! Think you can talk to me anyway you want to! Fuck you, you fucking slut! Open the door, Y/N!”

“Oh, sure! You fuck all the groupies and fans that show up to my concerts but I’m the fucking slut!”

“Y/N, stop engaging. Talk to me.” There’s a loud crash and a squeak from your side as the line cuts off. “Steve…hurry.”

Five minutes later, they are bursting through your front door, running towards your bedroom where they hear your boyfriend shouting. Steve tackles him to the floor subduing him with his knee in his back. 

“Get the fuck off me!”

“Stop moving. You’re lucky I don’t fucking shoot you, asshole.”

“Y/N?”, Eddie softly called your name as you continued to cower in the corner with your head tucked into your arms. “Princess, everything is ok. I’m going to touch your arm.” You jump when his fingers graze your skin but you allow him to guide you to your feet. “There we go. Good girl. You’re doing so good. Can you look at me so I can check you out here?”

Your lips trembled as you faced him, his eyes slowly growing dark with fury as he scanned you over. Your face was red from your tears but he could also see where Simon had smacked your cheek. You had bruises that were starting to form on your arms where he must have grabbed you. 

“I’ll call the police and EMS.”, he grumbled trying to contain his anger. 

“No! No EMS. Please…I don’t need those pictures or attention.”

“But I do of me being pushed into a fucking cop car.”, Simon spat. 

Steve grabbed his hair and hit his head into the carpet. “Shut. Up.” His eyes meet yours as he speaks in a much gentler tone. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah, um, I have a first aid kit here and all that so I’m fine.”

*** 

The police came by and took Simon away after taking everyone’s statements. Eddie and Steve took care of almost everything which you immensely appreciated. After everyone left, you expected them to as well but as your front door closed, you found you weren’t the only one on the other side. 

“I’m going to see if I can get your bedroom door back on its hinges.”, Eddie turned the corner to head down your hallway as Steve followed. 

You tiptoe after them, watching them with bewilderment as the metalhead got to work and Steve began straightening up the things Simon had damaged.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” They both froze, straightening up to look at you. “Why…why are you so nice to me? I’m such a fucking bitch to you. According to you, I’m a bratty, spoiled, washed up singer. WHY are you doing this?!”, you gesture around the room. 

They glanced at each other and after a few minutes it was Steve who finally spoke. “How should we be? Hm? Should we be like him? Do you think you deserve to be treated like this, Y/N?”

Their voices and demeanor completely changed in the moment; talking to you like a little girl who had just run into your parent’s room crying about a monster under her bed. 

“Sweetheart, NO ONE deserve to be treated like this. You didn’t trigger this. What he just did…isn’t your fault. You did the right thing calling us here. Now what kind of protectors would we be if we left you here alone with your house like this?”

You broke, sobbing almost uncontrollably as your hands covered your face. Strong hands tenderly grabbed your biceps, pulling you into a chest as you wrapped your arms around his back. Another palm delicately petted your head and for the first time in your life, you had never felt safer.

Stepping back, you wipe your eyes, glancing up to see Eddie’s kind, worry filled orbs running over your face as Steve stood beside him doing the same.

“Can, um, can we worry about this tomorrow and you stay here with me tonight?” 

“Yeah, we can stay here, honey. Do you have another room you can sleep in? I don’t think tomorrow morning you should open your eyes and this is the first thing you see.”

“I have a guest bedroom down the hall here.”

“Good because I agree with Steve. We can sleep on the couches out here and—”

“Can you sleep with me?”, you interrupt, your question startling both men. “I-I-I mean, you don’t have to. I just… I’m still a bit scared. I’m…forget about it.”

Eddie grabbed your hand as you started to walk away. 

“We can do that for you. If that’s what you want.” You nod your head to his statement, watching him closely as his eyes shift from security Eddie to something you had never seen before in any man. Whatever it was it made you feel weak in the knees. His fingers reached out to brush a loose strand of hair behind your ear. “Can you say it?”

“I-I want you two to sleep…in my bed…with me. Please.” That last word comes out almost in a whisper, pleading with them to stay. 

Steve’s fingers softly caress your cheek before gliding under your chin, turning you to face him. He had that same look Eddie had, that air of confidence you remembered seeing when you first met them but more dominate. 

“Good girl.”

[unholyverse]

waterparks // alternative press issue #341

(full article text under cut)

WATERPARKS

THESE POP-PUNK UPSTARTS HAVE CATCHY SONGS, AN ENDORSEMENT FROM THE MADDENS AND AN UNIRONIC LOVE FOR HAIR DYE AND FUNKY-COLORED JELL-O. THEY ALSO HAVE A LOT TO PROVE-AND THEY'RE READY TO GET TO WORK.

STORY: EVAN LUCY x PHOTOS: JONATHAN WEINER

Awsten Knight knows what you're thinking: This time last year, his band, Waterparks, were veritable nobodies. You'd probably not heard their two EPs (2012's Airplane Conversations and 2014's Black Light), and the band's SEO was likely so suspect, there's no way a Google search would place the Houston-based trio above their hometown Wet 'n' Wild.

What a difference a trip around the sun. makes. Since late last year, the group scored a record deal with Equal Vision, picked up Good Charlotte's Benji and Joel Madden as their managers, performed at the 2016 APMAS and even graced the cover of AP's Warped Tour issue-all before releasing their first album. Along the way, they've cultivated a passionate (and ever-growing) fanbase, thanks to an irreverent sense of humor, insatiable work ethic and saccharine-sweet pop-rock sound. But as their star has grown, so have the rumors and confusion about just how they ended up on a collision course with success.

"I saw somebody online say, 'Isn't this that industry-plant band? Like we were made by a label or something." Knight remarks from Los Angeles, where he and his bandmates are putting the finishing touches on bonus tracks for their debut full-length, Double Dare, and filming a video for the album's first single, "Stupid For You." "People are always like, "Where'd this band come from? This band blew up overnight! That's really not the case."

Indeed, it's been a grind for Waterparks, who formed back in 2011 and, after years of hustle and hard work, got signed last year after a demo serendipitously ended up in Equal Vision's online submission box. Even today, as Waterparks—Knight, guitarist/vocalist Geoff Wigington and drummer Otto Wood-seem to have an indefinite amount of momentum and a limitless future, there's always some humbling experience to remind them the big time is still a few steps away. Look no further than their method of transportation for this summer's Warped Tour: a modified Sprinter van handily equipped with sleeping quarters- but no air conditioning.

"The van didn't have A/C until we got to the North, Knight remembers. "We did Texas and Florida, the whole South, with no A/C. People thought we were in a bus. It'd be like, 'Oh yeah, when you guys go back to your bus…" He laughs. "How can you be egotistical when you're sitting there in a sweaty van going, 'Fucking kill me?'"

Lifestyles of the rich and famous it isn't, but that's fine with Waterparks. They're used to surprising people, whether it's with their origin story or their music. A testament to both their artistic vision and desire not to be pigeonholed as just another pop-punk band, Double Dare sounds like an album made by three men raised in iPod shuffle culture. The album opener "Hawaii (Stay Awake)" skews toward more standard pop-punk fare (a sound that definitely provides a backbone for the 12 tracks that follow), but the band are quick to add bits of pop, electronica and (surprisingly) hip- hop to the melting pot, leaving Double Dare feeling instantly reminiscent, yet wildly unpredictable. There's the unabashed pop charm of "Take Her To The Moon," a DeLorean ride back to the scene's neon days that's awash in glassy synths; the biting "Little Violence," which takes aim at "fake-ass band guys," along with the now-defunct site AbsolutePunk; "Stupid For You," a roller coaster of vocal runs mixed with razor-sharp hooks; and the jittery "Dizzy," which combines mile-a-minute rapped verses with a towering half-time chorus.

Knight, a textbook over-writer, wrote and demoed more than 40 songs for the album, which the group whittled down to the 17 or so they actually tracked in Los Angeles with producers Courtney Ballard and Benji Madden. What makes Double Dare such an engaging listen is not just the songwriting, but the way Waterparks dress it up. Throughout the album, Knight's voice serves almost as a third guitar, cutting in and out and swirling around the mix to give things added depth and a secret sonic weapon their peers lack.

"Listen to Kesha," Knight implores. "People have heard a lead guitar a billion times-no one gives a shit about a sick guitar lead. What's going to sound sonically cooler to the average human: a lead guitar- which people have been hearing for the longest time- or the literally unlimited sounds I can cut my voice up into and make it [serve the same purpose]? It just sounds cooler."

As a teenager, Knight studied raps by the likes of Busta Rhymes and Ludacris (he even performed a cover of Fergie's "Fergalicious" at an early show), and he thinks it would be "sweet" to be in a boy band. "You have to stand out, otherwise there's nothing interesting about what you're doing," he explains. "We've always tried to do different shit. A lot of our songs are a pop-driven thing, but it's a band. Girl-pop, to me, is the best genre [in music]. Even if you don't speak English and you hear a Kesha song or a Katy Perry song, it's going to sound so good. The melody is everything: It sounds so happy. Put those songs next to whatever progressive metal band and their fucking guitar sweeps. That's the difference between being a band people like and being a musician's band. [Adopts nerdy voice] 'Oh, that time signature change, blah blah! No one gives a shit except nerdy dudes, and nerdy dudes aren't going to buy your record, anyway. I want to make shit my little sister and her friends would be into."

If Knight is that unabashedly honest about his musical intentions, the words he writes take it a step further. At its core, Double Dare is the antithesis to the public image Waterparks have cultivated over the years. From their irreverent music videos to any number of off- the-rails interviews (including some from this summer's Warped Tour where Knight donned a wedding veil), the band's public persona is that of perpetual Peter Pans. While that might be true (Knight frequently drops words like "butthurt" in conversation), the open-book nature of his lyrics here reveals life isn't all fun and feces jokes.

As such, the songs on Double Dare read like pages ripped from a personal journal. Whether he's dealing with crippling insecurity ("I wish I was as brave as my last name"), self-doubt ("And I'm doing all right/ But is 'all right' enough?/Because I'm living my dreams, but I live at home") or true love ("If you died, I'd hope you'd haunt me"), Knight's words are blunt, painstakingly detailed and instantly relatable. He might project as a court jester, but he's deadly serious about his art.

"There's a time when Awsten can be serious, and that's when he's talking about his music, Benji Madden offers. "In order to sell records or magazines, people feel like they have to be sensational or play a funny game. If you talk to Awsten about anything other than music, you'll get totally jokey, bullshit answers-which I love. But if you talk to him about music, he's a really smart, intentional, thoughtful guy."

"Being honest about it is the best way to go about it," Knight says of his songs. "I've never liked the vague lyrics, like, [jokingly sings] "I've gotta find my way. I've gotta get out of this place! All my favorite lyricists are killer with metaphors or are able to uniquely describe things. I like getting into things and being specific." He references the acoustic ballad "21 Questions," easily one of the album's highlights, but a song slated for the cutting-room floor until Madden stepped in. ("I feel like that song could be one of those scene classics," the Good Charlotte guitarist offers.) It's hard to imagine the album without it.

Outside of being a steady hand in the studio, the Maddens are the perfect mentors for Knight, Wigington and Wood. After all, it was 15 years ago that Good Charlotte went through everything Waterparks are currently navigating, claims of being a test-tube band and all. They've learned everything is cyclical, and they're passing on the lessons they learned to the bands they manage.

"They're so wise," Wigington explains in a separate interview. "You shut up and listen. They've told us, 'Hey, things are going to start getting weird. There will be things you haven't been used to, especially if you're out on the road! But they've told us to look out for each other and have each other's back and helped instill a sense of camaraderie so we can deal with whatever weird shit comes our way."

If their current career trajectory continues, things will be getting weirder and weirder in the Waterparks camp soon. The band have secured the opening spot on Sleeping With Sirens' fall tour, and they're already making plans well into 2017. With a new album ready and the furthest reaches of the scene at their fingertips, it seems like there's really no limit to how big this thing can get. It's already surpassed their wildest dreams in the past year; imagine what one more could bring. Not that it would change their demeanor, of course.

"I'd like to be able to live comfortably to the point where I could ride a bike into a swimming pool filled with Jell-O and have it not be a big deal," Knight says unflinchingly, when asked what success would look like for him. "I was thinking blue or purple because I like cooler colors. Red seems messy. Not yellow or orange, because I don't like those flavors as much. I used to be allergic to blue dye when I was younger, so I'd probably pick that just so I could be like, 'Fuck you." alt

[rambleonwaywardson]

Rules: post a snippet from one of your current WIPs and pass on the love by tagging other writers.

Thank you @c-goldthorn for the tag!

A sort of spoiler for the astronaut AU if you haven't caught up with chapters 10 and 11!

If Bucky doesn’t make it home, someday Gale will forget the smoky-sweet scent of him. Someday he’ll forget the feeling of Bucky’s hands, the warmth of his body curled around him, the softness of his lips. He’ll forget the exact way Bucky smiled at him, and the way it made his heart soar every single time.

He’ll forget, because that’s just human nature. Someday, he’ll realize that he can’t recall those things from memory, that they’ve somehow slipped away, and he will grieve all over again. 

He lifts his hand to his mouth, pressing the wedding band to his lips, and he holds his breath to keep from sobbing. 

By 1am, sleep seems to be a lost cause, something Gale knew before he even slipped into bed. They’re experiencing a cold snap in the Houston area, with night time temperatures dipping into the mid to low 40s, but Gale doesn’t really care. He wanders through the house bundled in the Yankees sweatshirt, a thin throw blanket wrapped around his shoulders. In the kitchen, he looks at Maggie’s drawing stuck to the fridge with a magnet, and he presses his hand to it gently as he passes. Pepper and Meatball walk after him as he opens the back door leading onto the patio.

When Marge finds him about 20 minutes later, he’s curled up in a chair with his knees pulled to his chest. It’s a new moon, and he stares at the pitch-black sky, wondering if the fact that he can’t see the moon is better or worse than it looming over him. He has no visual of the world that his husband is stuck on. He has no visual of the world to which John’s life may be sacrificed, where his body and soul may be committed to the metaphorical deep. He keeps his ring finger pressed gently to his lips, and the dogs lay on the ground, guarding him, their thick coats shielding them from the cold. 

“You have to be freezing.” Marge sits down in the chair beside him, wearing one of his own sweatshirts that he’d lent her for the night. She looks worriedly at his bare feet pressed into the chair, turning pink from the biting ocean air.

Gale shrugs, because he doesn’t know. Didn’t notice. Doesn't care. His feet feel a bit cold, and he's sure it should be registering more than it is. But it isn't. “He’s up there somewhere,” he says instead.

Tagging @avonne-writes @middlingmay @onyxsboxes

[doomedandstoned]

WARLUNG Reveal New Music Video “29th Scroll 6th Verse”

~Doomed & Stoned Debuts~

By Billy Goate

Artwork by Laura Bennett

There's no denying the deep, groovy, doomy heavy rock vibe of WARLUNG on their new music video, airing the first single from their upcoming 5th studio album, 'The Poison Touch' (2025). Lyrics draw upon moments from the original Planet of the Apes movie (I'm talking the one from way back in '68), scripted by classic Twilight Zone writer Rod Serling:

Beware the beast man, for he is the devil's pawn. Alone among God's primates, he kills for sport or lust or greed. Ye, he will murder his brother to possess his brother's land. Let him not breed in great numbers, for he will make a desert of his home and yours. Shun him. Drive him back into his jungle lair. For he is the harbinger of death.

This screed was preserved in the Apes' sacred scripture, "29th Scroll 6th Verse," which is the title of this album-closer. Its truth is self-evident, generation after generation, bringing chills when you hear the words: "No way out..."

"This is an ode to classic sci-fi," the band explains. "The song warns against the destructiveness of human nature. It’s an interpretation of the Law Giver’s sacred scriptures from The Planet of the Apes lore."

Warlung's forthcoming 8-tracker is bursting with energy, made immediately recognizable by the distinctive two-vocalist approach of axemen George Baba and Philip Bennet that deliver some truly effective choruses, with delicious guitar harmonies, hell-yeah solos, and poignant riffs, backed by the stalwart and inventive rhythm section of Chris Tamez (bass) and Ethan Tamaz (drums). These two brothers bring dramatic punch to "29th Scroll, 6th Verse," making its message all the more gripping.

You can pre-order The Poison Touch starting today on Heavy Psych Sounds, with the release date slated for February 14th on multiple variants of vinyl as well as compact disc and digital (get it here). Mixed and mastered by Travis Weatherred of fellow Houston band Fostermother, whose recent album Echo Manor was lauded in these pages.

Warlung's tight, highly-charged sound and earnest vocals possess the stage, making them a must-see live, and I know Europe will be pumped to see them in the new year.

Give ear...

SOME BUZZ

Warlung is a Texas band formed by longtime friends and brothers in 2016. Their sound is an ode to classic rock and modern metal, mixing heavy riffs and catchy melodies with a psychedelic twist.

After self-releasing their debut album “Sleepwalker” in 2017, they quickly gained a cult following around Texas, opening for bands like Wo Fat and Dead Meadow. The band seemed to accept that they don’t have to stick to traditional themes and goes for more epic storytelling, helping to further expand their sound.

They wasted no time and returned to the studio to release “Immortal Portal” in 2019, becoming a local favorite to support bands such as High Reeper and King Buffalo. The band promoted their unique sound. playing notable festivals End Hip End It Fest, SXSW, Stoner Jam, Lone Star Unleashed and Ripplefest. They are renowned for their pneumonic rage, utilizing elements of true doom, stoner rock and occult-driven blues.

After signing with Heavy Psych Sounds to release “Optical Delusions” in 2020 and “Vulture’s Paradise” in 2022, they embarked on their first European tour in early 2023. Their wicked riffs, dream-like vocals and sinful solos subdue the listener into a deep state of fantasia. Touring sporadically, they continued to be included on lineups of Desert Rock Fest, Seismic Summer, and Heavy Psych Sounds Fest, sharing the stage with High on Fire, Truckfighters, Bongzilla, Weedeater, Windhand, and Brant Bjork.

Warlung is set to release their fifth studio album entitled, “The Poison Touch” and preparing for another European tour in early 2025.

'The Poison Touch' (2025) delves deeper into atmosphere while maintaining the gritty undertone that defines us. From start to finish, the listener is blasted with in-your-face raw energy while simultaneously feeling like a hauntingly beautiful experience. This record captures the essence of our live sound while exploring new realms, serving as both a continuation and evolution of our style.

Follow The Band

Get Their Music

[khazadspoon]

Got inspired by that meet-weird list, specifically the one about being knocked out and in hospital. So this is the introduction to my musician/band AU for Rawhide. Nothing major but it’s a start. I love it even if it has only existed in my head and a chat with @westernmeowmeow until now.

—————

It starts, as many things do, with too much alcohol. Gil hasn’t drunk much in years, preferring to stay sober for his performances and so precisely things like this don’t happen.

At least this time it isn’t his fault. It isn’t Pete’s fault either, the two of them were just having a quiet beer after a small but successful show, and then suddenly there are fists flying. Gil is pretty sure he sees a chair fly through the air but any opportunity to check disappears as a young dirty blonde haired man hits him square in the jaw and knocks him out.

He only knows he was knocked out because he has to wake up to remember it.

The lights are fluorescent, too bright and harsh to be in anything but a hospital, and his head feels like it’s being split in half by a railroad spike. A low, pained groan tears from his throat as he tries to sit up and thinks better of it. Laying down is definitely the better option. Wishbone would be proud of him for not trying a second time.

“Oh thank god!” A voice says little too loudly for Gil’s head to deal with at the moment. He winces and waves a hand at the speaker, eyes closed against the bright light. “Sorry,” the voice continues, quieter this time.

“Where’m I?” Gil manages to slur, putting his hands over his face and trying to blindly figure out if he’s still in his own clothes or a hospital gown.

“You’re in Houston, Texas. It’s June-”

Gil resists the urge to open his eyes and glare. It’d probably just hurt. “I know that, I’ve not got amnesia; what building in Houston?” He asks with as little grumpiness as he can manage. The voice is soft and gentle, one he could stand to hear more if it wasn’t for the headache.

“Uh, Memorial Hermann. Southwest. D’you want me to get a doctor?” The voice asks.

He shakes his head, slowly, and risks opening his eyes. Not as bad now, though he still keeps his eyes shaded from the light strips above the bed. He glances over and blinks to clear his vision.

“You,” he manages to croak out. It’s the kid from the bar, the one who had knocked him out. “Why’re you here?”

The kid blushes and ducks his head. “Was the least I could do after, you know, knocking you unconscious. Which was an accident by the way.”

“An accident, huh?” Gil drawls. It’s about the only form of speech he is sure he can do right now. “Sure would hate for you to have meant it in that case…” He rubs at his face and sighs. “How long was I out?”

“A couple of hours,” the kid pours a glass of water and holds it out, seems unwilling to take no for an answer and holds it until Gil takes it and drinks half. “Your, uh, friend? The one with the fringed jacket? He went to get coffee.”

Gil takes another moment to blink and breathe. “So you knock me out on accident, bring me to a hospital, and then stay until I wake up?” He asks, sure his face is doing weird things as he raises his eyebrows and tucks his chin in disbelief. “You some kind of religious?”

The kid laughs, the sound bright and melodious even if it stings Gil’s head to hear, and is coupled with a smile that could give the fluorescent lighting a run for its money. “No, not religious, just had a good ma.”

“Send her my regards,” he replies.

“Oh no, if I tell her I knocked out the Trail Boss she’ll tan my hide!”

Gil frowns, struggling to understand why a complete stranger would know his nickname until the pieces fall into place. “You were at the show.”

“Yeah, been listening to you since I was in my teens. Had your first album on vinyl,” the kid’s grin widens and he looks so proud it almost hurts to see. It’s not often these days Gil comes across fans, not ones who genuinely remember his glory days or have any real attachment to his music at least. Pete always says it doesn’t matter, and he agrees, but the little rush of joy he feels at the idea of someone remembering him for something good is hard to ignore.

“I’m Rowdy, by the way.”

“I can tell.”

The kid’s grin dims in confusion ever so slightly before he huffs a laugh. “I’m Rowdy Yates. And, if you’ll let me get a nurse or someone, I’d like to buy you breakfast.” He flushed again, rushes to stammer out the rest. “As an apology, I mean.”

Gil holds out his hand and smiles. “Nice to meet you, Rowdy.”

They shake hands. Gil has a strange feeling in his stomach he doesn’t think has anything to do with the whole being knocked unconscious thing. It feels like he’s about to have something happen to him, something he can’t and probably shouldn’t fight.

Pete strolls in with two coffees and a nurse who looks about as tired as Gil feels. She tells him he’s fine to leave, but to come back if he throws up or if the headache doesn’t stop in the next hour or two. He ignores Pete’s knowing smiles and stifled laughter as Rowdy explains why they’re going to the Denny’s up on Hillcroft street.

“Want me to go back to the motel, boss? Don’t wanna be a third wheel,” Pete teases him as soon as Rowdy is out of earshot.

“Shut up, Pete,” he shoots back. “The kid’s just apologising. I reckon he owes me, don’t you?”

Pete shrugs and helps Gil tug his jacket back on. He’d been in his own clothes, after all. At least he hadn’t had to flash his backside at anyone when getting out of the bed.

“See if he’ll get you second helpings too in that case.”

Gil lets his friend fuss over him, makes him promise not to tell Wishbone until Gil gets back to the motel himself, and thanks whatever deity is listening for good friends and kind strangers who offer to buy you breakfast. Even if those strangers put you in the hospital before buying you said breakfast.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

On Christmas Day, Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable performance at the Texans-Ravens NFL game in her hometown of Houston, Texas. The Beyoncé halftime show was nothing short of extraordinary, further cementing her status as the undisputed Queen of entertainment. Fans and critics alike hailed it as one of the most iconic moments of the season, with her flawless vocals, electrifying stage presence, and energetic choreography making it a Christmas spectacle to remember. From the moment fans entered NRG Stadium, it was clear this was no ordinary game. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, blending the competitive energy of football with the magic of Christmas. The stadium sparkled with holiday cheer—dazzling Christmas lights, beautifully decorated trees, and festive photo ops. Fans turned up in a mix of NFL jerseys and custom “Cowboy Carter” merchandise, showcasing Beyoncé’s far-reaching influence. The stage was set for a show, and the Beyoncé Christmas halftime performance exceeded every expectation. Each seat in the stadium was equipped with Cowboy Carter-themed light-up wristbands, adding an immersive, interactive element to the experience. The Magic Begins Photo: @nfl/Instagram As the halftime whistle blew, the anticipation reached a fever pitch. A hush fell over the crowd, and the big screens flickered to life with a mesmerizing opening act. Country singers Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of “Blackbird.” Their harmonizing voices set a poignant and soulful tone, building up the excitement for what was about to come. And then, she appeared. Beyoncé made a grand entrance, descending onto the field atop a majestic horse, exuding regal energy with every step. Dressed in an ensemble fit for a queen, she performed “16 Carriages” in a pre-taped segment, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The seamless transition into her live performance of The Beatles’ iconic “Blackbird” was nothing short of magical, drawing a thunderous cheer from the stadium as Beyoncé’s voice soared through the air, stirring emotions and capturing the true spirit of the holiday season. A Night of Surprises Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments that captivated everyone in attendance. Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band electrified the stadium with its dynamic performance, paying tribute to Houston’s vibrant cultural legacy. The powerful beats and brass sections created an exhilarating atmosphere, setting the stage for the next jaw-dropping moments. Then, as the crowd roared, Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, stepped into the spotlight. With grace and confidence far beyond her years, she delivered a flawless performance during “Texas Hold ’Em,” proving she’s not just Beyoncé’s daughter, but a star in her own right. Her poise and stage presence perfectly complemented her mother’s iconic energy, making for a truly magical mother-daughter moment. But the surprises didn’t stop there. Post Malone, another proud Texas native, joined Beyoncé on stage for a memorable rendition of their hit song “Levii’s Jeans.” The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the performance was a true celebration of Texas pride. Their collaboration added a special layer to an already epic show, cementing the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A Tribute to Texas Throughout the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show, the Queen herself paid a heartfelt tribute to her roots, weaving elements of her Texas upbringing into every moment of the performance. The show wasn’t just a display of musical brilliance; it was a love letter to her hometown, Houston. Beyoncé seamlessly blended her iconic artistry with nods to local traditions, including rodeo culture, which holds deep significance in Texas. Shaboozey, with his deep, resonant voice, added a soulful layer to the performance, joining Beyoncé for powerful renditions of “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin.” His presence elevated the emotional depth of the show, connecting it to the rich musical history of Texas. The Texans Cheerleaders also brought their signature energy and precision, infusing the performance with a sense of community and local pride. Additionally, notable figures from the rodeo world shared the stage, incorporating authentic elements of Texas culture and grounding the entire spectacle in local tradition. From the music to the imagery, it was clear that this halftime show wasn’t just about Beyoncé—it was a celebration of Houston and everything that made it uniquely special. A Visual and Musical Masterpiece Photo: @nfl/Instagram Beyoncé’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, creating an experience that captivated all the senses. The Cowboy Carter-themed wristbands, synchronized with the music, illuminated the stadium, producing a mesmerizing visual display that added another layer of magic to the performance. The finale was nothing short of spectacular. As Beyoncé ascended above the field on a white platform, a massive “BANG!” banner dropped, signaling the grand conclusion of the show. Her final gesture—a raised fist—spoke volumes, symbolizing pride, gratitude, and triumph. It was a moment that resonated deeply, leaving the audience in awe and cementing the halftime show as a historic, unforgettable event. Why Beyoncé Reigns Supreme The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show wasn’t just a performance; it was an experience. From her vocal prowess to her commanding stage presence, Beyoncé reminded the world why she is the Queen. Her ability to create unforgettable moments and elevate the art of performance is unparalleled. Whether she’s headlining a Super Bowl or a holiday halftime show, Beyoncé consistently delivers excellence. This Christmas, she gave her fans the ultimate gift—a once-in-a-lifetime performance that will be remembered for years to come. Curtains Fall Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show on Christmas Day was a testament to her unmatched artistry and ability to unite people through music and performance. Her deep connection to her roots, her family, and her fans shone through in every moment, making the event feel personal and monumental. Once again, Beyoncé has proven why she reigns as the Queen. The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest live performances in history. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that when Beyoncé takes the stage, the world stops to watch. Watch the performance…       Featured image: @nfl/Instagram For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[norajworld]

On Christmas Day, Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable performance at the Texans-Ravens NFL game in her hometown of Houston, Texas. The Beyoncé halftime show was nothing short of extraordinary, further cementing her status as the undisputed Queen of entertainment. Fans and critics alike hailed it as one of the most iconic moments of the season, with her flawless vocals, electrifying stage presence, and energetic choreography making it a Christmas spectacle to remember. From the moment fans entered NRG Stadium, it was clear this was no ordinary game. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, blending the competitive energy of football with the magic of Christmas. The stadium sparkled with holiday cheer—dazzling Christmas lights, beautifully decorated trees, and festive photo ops. Fans turned up in a mix of NFL jerseys and custom “Cowboy Carter” merchandise, showcasing Beyoncé’s far-reaching influence. The stage was set for a show, and the Beyoncé Christmas halftime performance exceeded every expectation. Each seat in the stadium was equipped with Cowboy Carter-themed light-up wristbands, adding an immersive, interactive element to the experience. The Magic Begins Photo: @nfl/Instagram As the halftime whistle blew, the anticipation reached a fever pitch. A hush fell over the crowd, and the big screens flickered to life with a mesmerizing opening act. Country singers Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of “Blackbird.” Their harmonizing voices set a poignant and soulful tone, building up the excitement for what was about to come. And then, she appeared. Beyoncé made a grand entrance, descending onto the field atop a majestic horse, exuding regal energy with every step. Dressed in an ensemble fit for a queen, she performed “16 Carriages” in a pre-taped segment, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The seamless transition into her live performance of The Beatles’ iconic “Blackbird” was nothing short of magical, drawing a thunderous cheer from the stadium as Beyoncé’s voice soared through the air, stirring emotions and capturing the true spirit of the holiday season. A Night of Surprises Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments that captivated everyone in attendance. Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band electrified the stadium with its dynamic performance, paying tribute to Houston’s vibrant cultural legacy. The powerful beats and brass sections created an exhilarating atmosphere, setting the stage for the next jaw-dropping moments. Then, as the crowd roared, Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, stepped into the spotlight. With grace and confidence far beyond her years, she delivered a flawless performance during “Texas Hold ’Em,” proving she’s not just Beyoncé’s daughter, but a star in her own right. Her poise and stage presence perfectly complemented her mother’s iconic energy, making for a truly magical mother-daughter moment. But the surprises didn’t stop there. Post Malone, another proud Texas native, joined Beyoncé on stage for a memorable rendition of their hit song “Levii’s Jeans.” The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the performance was a true celebration of Texas pride. Their collaboration added a special layer to an already epic show, cementing the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A Tribute to Texas Throughout the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show, the Queen herself paid a heartfelt tribute to her roots, weaving elements of her Texas upbringing into every moment of the performance. The show wasn’t just a display of musical brilliance; it was a love letter to her hometown, Houston. Beyoncé seamlessly blended her iconic artistry with nods to local traditions, including rodeo culture, which holds deep significance in Texas. Shaboozey, with his deep, resonant voice, added a soulful layer to the performance, joining Beyoncé for powerful renditions of “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin.” His presence elevated the emotional depth of the show, connecting it to the rich musical history of Texas. The Texans Cheerleaders also brought their signature energy and precision, infusing the performance with a sense of community and local pride. Additionally, notable figures from the rodeo world shared the stage, incorporating authentic elements of Texas culture and grounding the entire spectacle in local tradition. From the music to the imagery, it was clear that this halftime show wasn’t just about Beyoncé—it was a celebration of Houston and everything that made it uniquely special. A Visual and Musical Masterpiece Photo: @nfl/Instagram Beyoncé’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, creating an experience that captivated all the senses. The Cowboy Carter-themed wristbands, synchronized with the music, illuminated the stadium, producing a mesmerizing visual display that added another layer of magic to the performance. The finale was nothing short of spectacular. As Beyoncé ascended above the field on a white platform, a massive “BANG!” banner dropped, signaling the grand conclusion of the show. Her final gesture—a raised fist—spoke volumes, symbolizing pride, gratitude, and triumph. It was a moment that resonated deeply, leaving the audience in awe and cementing the halftime show as a historic, unforgettable event. Why Beyoncé Reigns Supreme The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show wasn’t just a performance; it was an experience. From her vocal prowess to her commanding stage presence, Beyoncé reminded the world why she is the Queen. Her ability to create unforgettable moments and elevate the art of performance is unparalleled. Whether she’s headlining a Super Bowl or a holiday halftime show, Beyoncé consistently delivers excellence. This Christmas, she gave her fans the ultimate gift—a once-in-a-lifetime performance that will be remembered for years to come. Curtains Fall Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show on Christmas Day was a testament to her unmatched artistry and ability to unite people through music and performance. Her deep connection to her roots, her family, and her fans shone through in every moment, making the event feel personal and monumental. Once again, Beyoncé has proven why she reigns as the Queen. The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest live performances in history. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that when Beyoncé takes the stage, the world stops to watch. Watch the performance…       Featured image: @nfl/Instagram For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[ellajme0]

On Christmas Day, Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable performance at the Texans-Ravens NFL game in her hometown of Houston, Texas. The Beyoncé halftime show was nothing short of extraordinary, further cementing her status as the undisputed Queen of entertainment. Fans and critics alike hailed it as one of the most iconic moments of the season, with her flawless vocals, electrifying stage presence, and energetic choreography making it a Christmas spectacle to remember. From the moment fans entered NRG Stadium, it was clear this was no ordinary game. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, blending the competitive energy of football with the magic of Christmas. The stadium sparkled with holiday cheer—dazzling Christmas lights, beautifully decorated trees, and festive photo ops. Fans turned up in a mix of NFL jerseys and custom “Cowboy Carter” merchandise, showcasing Beyoncé’s far-reaching influence. The stage was set for a show, and the Beyoncé Christmas halftime performance exceeded every expectation. Each seat in the stadium was equipped with Cowboy Carter-themed light-up wristbands, adding an immersive, interactive element to the experience. The Magic Begins Photo: @nfl/Instagram As the halftime whistle blew, the anticipation reached a fever pitch. A hush fell over the crowd, and the big screens flickered to life with a mesmerizing opening act. Country singers Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of “Blackbird.” Their harmonizing voices set a poignant and soulful tone, building up the excitement for what was about to come. And then, she appeared. Beyoncé made a grand entrance, descending onto the field atop a majestic horse, exuding regal energy with every step. Dressed in an ensemble fit for a queen, she performed “16 Carriages” in a pre-taped segment, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The seamless transition into her live performance of The Beatles’ iconic “Blackbird” was nothing short of magical, drawing a thunderous cheer from the stadium as Beyoncé’s voice soared through the air, stirring emotions and capturing the true spirit of the holiday season. A Night of Surprises Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments that captivated everyone in attendance. Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band electrified the stadium with its dynamic performance, paying tribute to Houston’s vibrant cultural legacy. The powerful beats and brass sections created an exhilarating atmosphere, setting the stage for the next jaw-dropping moments. Then, as the crowd roared, Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, stepped into the spotlight. With grace and confidence far beyond her years, she delivered a flawless performance during “Texas Hold ’Em,” proving she’s not just Beyoncé’s daughter, but a star in her own right. Her poise and stage presence perfectly complemented her mother’s iconic energy, making for a truly magical mother-daughter moment. But the surprises didn’t stop there. Post Malone, another proud Texas native, joined Beyoncé on stage for a memorable rendition of their hit song “Levii’s Jeans.” The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the performance was a true celebration of Texas pride. Their collaboration added a special layer to an already epic show, cementing the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A Tribute to Texas Throughout the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show, the Queen herself paid a heartfelt tribute to her roots, weaving elements of her Texas upbringing into every moment of the performance. The show wasn’t just a display of musical brilliance; it was a love letter to her hometown, Houston. Beyoncé seamlessly blended her iconic artistry with nods to local traditions, including rodeo culture, which holds deep significance in Texas. Shaboozey, with his deep, resonant voice, added a soulful layer to the performance, joining Beyoncé for powerful renditions of “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin.” His presence elevated the emotional depth of the show, connecting it to the rich musical history of Texas. The Texans Cheerleaders also brought their signature energy and precision, infusing the performance with a sense of community and local pride. Additionally, notable figures from the rodeo world shared the stage, incorporating authentic elements of Texas culture and grounding the entire spectacle in local tradition. From the music to the imagery, it was clear that this halftime show wasn’t just about Beyoncé—it was a celebration of Houston and everything that made it uniquely special. A Visual and Musical Masterpiece Photo: @nfl/Instagram Beyoncé’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, creating an experience that captivated all the senses. The Cowboy Carter-themed wristbands, synchronized with the music, illuminated the stadium, producing a mesmerizing visual display that added another layer of magic to the performance. The finale was nothing short of spectacular. As Beyoncé ascended above the field on a white platform, a massive “BANG!” banner dropped, signaling the grand conclusion of the show. Her final gesture—a raised fist—spoke volumes, symbolizing pride, gratitude, and triumph. It was a moment that resonated deeply, leaving the audience in awe and cementing the halftime show as a historic, unforgettable event. Why Beyoncé Reigns Supreme The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show wasn’t just a performance; it was an experience. From her vocal prowess to her commanding stage presence, Beyoncé reminded the world why she is the Queen. Her ability to create unforgettable moments and elevate the art of performance is unparalleled. Whether she’s headlining a Super Bowl or a holiday halftime show, Beyoncé consistently delivers excellence. This Christmas, she gave her fans the ultimate gift—a once-in-a-lifetime performance that will be remembered for years to come. Curtains Fall Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show on Christmas Day was a testament to her unmatched artistry and ability to unite people through music and performance. Her deep connection to her roots, her family, and her fans shone through in every moment, making the event feel personal and monumental. Once again, Beyoncé has proven why she reigns as the Queen. The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest live performances in history. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that when Beyoncé takes the stage, the world stops to watch. Watch the performance…       Featured image: @nfl/Instagram For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[chilimili212]

On Christmas Day, Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable performance at the Texans-Ravens NFL game in her hometown of Houston, Texas. The Beyoncé halftime show was nothing short of extraordinary, further cementing her status as the undisputed Queen of entertainment. Fans and critics alike hailed it as one of the most iconic moments of the season, with her flawless vocals, electrifying stage presence, and energetic choreography making it a Christmas spectacle to remember. From the moment fans entered NRG Stadium, it was clear this was no ordinary game. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, blending the competitive energy of football with the magic of Christmas. The stadium sparkled with holiday cheer—dazzling Christmas lights, beautifully decorated trees, and festive photo ops. Fans turned up in a mix of NFL jerseys and custom “Cowboy Carter” merchandise, showcasing Beyoncé’s far-reaching influence. The stage was set for a show, and the Beyoncé Christmas halftime performance exceeded every expectation. Each seat in the stadium was equipped with Cowboy Carter-themed light-up wristbands, adding an immersive, interactive element to the experience. The Magic Begins Photo: @nfl/Instagram As the halftime whistle blew, the anticipation reached a fever pitch. A hush fell over the crowd, and the big screens flickered to life with a mesmerizing opening act. Country singers Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of “Blackbird.” Their harmonizing voices set a poignant and soulful tone, building up the excitement for what was about to come. And then, she appeared. Beyoncé made a grand entrance, descending onto the field atop a majestic horse, exuding regal energy with every step. Dressed in an ensemble fit for a queen, she performed “16 Carriages” in a pre-taped segment, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The seamless transition into her live performance of The Beatles’ iconic “Blackbird” was nothing short of magical, drawing a thunderous cheer from the stadium as Beyoncé’s voice soared through the air, stirring emotions and capturing the true spirit of the holiday season. A Night of Surprises Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments that captivated everyone in attendance. Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band electrified the stadium with its dynamic performance, paying tribute to Houston’s vibrant cultural legacy. The powerful beats and brass sections created an exhilarating atmosphere, setting the stage for the next jaw-dropping moments. Then, as the crowd roared, Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, stepped into the spotlight. With grace and confidence far beyond her years, she delivered a flawless performance during “Texas Hold ’Em,” proving she’s not just Beyoncé’s daughter, but a star in her own right. Her poise and stage presence perfectly complemented her mother’s iconic energy, making for a truly magical mother-daughter moment. But the surprises didn’t stop there. Post Malone, another proud Texas native, joined Beyoncé on stage for a memorable rendition of their hit song “Levii’s Jeans.” The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the performance was a true celebration of Texas pride. Their collaboration added a special layer to an already epic show, cementing the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A Tribute to Texas Throughout the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show, the Queen herself paid a heartfelt tribute to her roots, weaving elements of her Texas upbringing into every moment of the performance. The show wasn’t just a display of musical brilliance; it was a love letter to her hometown, Houston. Beyoncé seamlessly blended her iconic artistry with nods to local traditions, including rodeo culture, which holds deep significance in Texas. Shaboozey, with his deep, resonant voice, added a soulful layer to the performance, joining Beyoncé for powerful renditions of “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin.” His presence elevated the emotional depth of the show, connecting it to the rich musical history of Texas. The Texans Cheerleaders also brought their signature energy and precision, infusing the performance with a sense of community and local pride. Additionally, notable figures from the rodeo world shared the stage, incorporating authentic elements of Texas culture and grounding the entire spectacle in local tradition. From the music to the imagery, it was clear that this halftime show wasn’t just about Beyoncé—it was a celebration of Houston and everything that made it uniquely special. A Visual and Musical Masterpiece Photo: @nfl/Instagram Beyoncé’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, creating an experience that captivated all the senses. The Cowboy Carter-themed wristbands, synchronized with the music, illuminated the stadium, producing a mesmerizing visual display that added another layer of magic to the performance. The finale was nothing short of spectacular. As Beyoncé ascended above the field on a white platform, a massive “BANG!” banner dropped, signaling the grand conclusion of the show. Her final gesture—a raised fist—spoke volumes, symbolizing pride, gratitude, and triumph. It was a moment that resonated deeply, leaving the audience in awe and cementing the halftime show as a historic, unforgettable event. Why Beyoncé Reigns Supreme The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show wasn’t just a performance; it was an experience. From her vocal prowess to her commanding stage presence, Beyoncé reminded the world why she is the Queen. Her ability to create unforgettable moments and elevate the art of performance is unparalleled. Whether she’s headlining a Super Bowl or a holiday halftime show, Beyoncé consistently delivers excellence. This Christmas, she gave her fans the ultimate gift—a once-in-a-lifetime performance that will be remembered for years to come. Curtains Fall Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show on Christmas Day was a testament to her unmatched artistry and ability to unite people through music and performance. Her deep connection to her roots, her family, and her fans shone through in every moment, making the event feel personal and monumental. Once again, Beyoncé has proven why she reigns as the Queen. The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest live performances in history. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that when Beyoncé takes the stage, the world stops to watch. Watch the performance…       Featured image: @nfl/Instagram For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[oliviajoyice21]

On Christmas Day, Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable performance at the Texans-Ravens NFL game in her hometown of Houston, Texas. The Beyoncé halftime show was nothing short of extraordinary, further cementing her status as the undisputed Queen of entertainment. Fans and critics alike hailed it as one of the most iconic moments of the season, with her flawless vocals, electrifying stage presence, and energetic choreography making it a Christmas spectacle to remember. From the moment fans entered NRG Stadium, it was clear this was no ordinary game. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, blending the competitive energy of football with the magic of Christmas. The stadium sparkled with holiday cheer—dazzling Christmas lights, beautifully decorated trees, and festive photo ops. Fans turned up in a mix of NFL jerseys and custom “Cowboy Carter” merchandise, showcasing Beyoncé’s far-reaching influence. The stage was set for a show, and the Beyoncé Christmas halftime performance exceeded every expectation. Each seat in the stadium was equipped with Cowboy Carter-themed light-up wristbands, adding an immersive, interactive element to the experience. The Magic Begins Photo: @nfl/Instagram As the halftime whistle blew, the anticipation reached a fever pitch. A hush fell over the crowd, and the big screens flickered to life with a mesmerizing opening act. Country singers Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of “Blackbird.” Their harmonizing voices set a poignant and soulful tone, building up the excitement for what was about to come. And then, she appeared. Beyoncé made a grand entrance, descending onto the field atop a majestic horse, exuding regal energy with every step. Dressed in an ensemble fit for a queen, she performed “16 Carriages” in a pre-taped segment, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The seamless transition into her live performance of The Beatles’ iconic “Blackbird” was nothing short of magical, drawing a thunderous cheer from the stadium as Beyoncé’s voice soared through the air, stirring emotions and capturing the true spirit of the holiday season. A Night of Surprises Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments that captivated everyone in attendance. Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul Marching Band electrified the stadium with its dynamic performance, paying tribute to Houston’s vibrant cultural legacy. The powerful beats and brass sections created an exhilarating atmosphere, setting the stage for the next jaw-dropping moments. Then, as the crowd roared, Blue Ivy, Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, stepped into the spotlight. With grace and confidence far beyond her years, she delivered a flawless performance during “Texas Hold ’Em,” proving she’s not just Beyoncé’s daughter, but a star in her own right. Her poise and stage presence perfectly complemented her mother’s iconic energy, making for a truly magical mother-daughter moment. But the surprises didn’t stop there. Post Malone, another proud Texas native, joined Beyoncé on stage for a memorable rendition of their hit song “Levii’s Jeans.” The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the performance was a true celebration of Texas pride. Their collaboration added a special layer to an already epic show, cementing the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A Tribute to Texas Throughout the Beyoncé Christmas halftime show, the Queen herself paid a heartfelt tribute to her roots, weaving elements of her Texas upbringing into every moment of the performance. The show wasn’t just a display of musical brilliance; it was a love letter to her hometown, Houston. Beyoncé seamlessly blended her iconic artistry with nods to local traditions, including rodeo culture, which holds deep significance in Texas. Shaboozey, with his deep, resonant voice, added a soulful layer to the performance, joining Beyoncé for powerful renditions of “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckiin.” His presence elevated the emotional depth of the show, connecting it to the rich musical history of Texas. The Texans Cheerleaders also brought their signature energy and precision, infusing the performance with a sense of community and local pride. Additionally, notable figures from the rodeo world shared the stage, incorporating authentic elements of Texas culture and grounding the entire spectacle in local tradition. From the music to the imagery, it was clear that this halftime show wasn’t just about Beyoncé—it was a celebration of Houston and everything that made it uniquely special. A Visual and Musical Masterpiece Photo: @nfl/Instagram Beyoncé’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the show, creating an experience that captivated all the senses. The Cowboy Carter-themed wristbands, synchronized with the music, illuminated the stadium, producing a mesmerizing visual display that added another layer of magic to the performance. The finale was nothing short of spectacular. As Beyoncé ascended above the field on a white platform, a massive “BANG!” banner dropped, signaling the grand conclusion of the show. Her final gesture—a raised fist—spoke volumes, symbolizing pride, gratitude, and triumph. It was a moment that resonated deeply, leaving the audience in awe and cementing the halftime show as a historic, unforgettable event. Why Beyoncé Reigns Supreme The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show wasn’t just a performance; it was an experience. From her vocal prowess to her commanding stage presence, Beyoncé reminded the world why she is the Queen. Her ability to create unforgettable moments and elevate the art of performance is unparalleled. Whether she’s headlining a Super Bowl or a holiday halftime show, Beyoncé consistently delivers excellence. This Christmas, she gave her fans the ultimate gift—a once-in-a-lifetime performance that will be remembered for years to come. Curtains Fall Photo: @nfl/Instagram The Beyoncé halftime show on Christmas Day was a testament to her unmatched artistry and ability to unite people through music and performance. Her deep connection to her roots, her family, and her fans shone through in every moment, making the event feel personal and monumental. Once again, Beyoncé has proven why she reigns as the Queen. The Beyoncé Christmas halftime show will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest live performances in history. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that when Beyoncé takes the stage, the world stops to watch. Watch the performance…       Featured image: @nfl/Instagram For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_—Read Also !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[mamusiq]

*Mikell's was a jazz club on the corner of 97th Street and Columbus Avenue, in New York City.

Run by Mike Mikell and Pat Mikell, from 1969 to 1991 it was a regular venue for New York's top studio and session musicians, who would turn up for jam sessions with major soul, funk and jazz artists visiting the city. Paul Shaffer, bandleader for CBS's Late Show with David Letterman, called Mikell's "soul heaven".

Among the performers and bands associated with Mikell’s are Stuff, the alliance of studio musicians that played almost weekly at Mikell's in the 1970s.

Writer James Baldwin's brother David worked as a bartender at the club in the 1970s and 1980s, thereby attracting patronage from Baldwin as well as other authors, including Toni Morrison, Amiri Baraka and Maya Angelou, and musician friends such as Art Blakey, Roy Ayres and Wynton Marsalis.

Mike Mikell, 80, Owner of an Influential R&B and Jazz Club, Dies

Mikell's was my neighborhood hangout--a great place that has become a drab coffee shop.--CA November 21, 2005

Mike Mikell, 80, Owner of an Influential R&B and Jazz Club, Dies

By JON PARELES

Mike Mikell, whose Upper West Side club, Mikell's, was a vital part of New York City rhythm-and-blues and jazz scenes for two decades, died on Friday in Kingston, N.Y. He was 80 and lived in Woodstock, N.Y. The cause was cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, known and Lou Gehrig's disease, his wife, Pat, said.

Mikell's opened in 1969 at the corner of 97th Street and Columbus Avenue, and became both a literary and musical magnet, which it remained until it closed, in 1991. At a tribute to the club last year, Paul Shaffer, the bandleader for CBS's "Late Show With David Letterman," called Mikell's "soul heaven." Harold Craig Mikell, who was known as Mike, was born in Quincy, Fla., and grew up in Hartford. As a young man, he earned a living picking tobacco. He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and returned to Hartford to work in restaurants as a chef and manager. But he would regularly visit New York and the jazz clubs that were thriving on 52nd Street, and he eventually moved to the city.

He was the manager of Terry's Pub on the Upper West Side when the owner decided to give up the lease, and Mr. Mikell took it over with the help of a Small Business Administration loan; he renamed it Mikell's.

In 1971 he married Patricia Nuccitelli, who survives him, along with a son, Zachary Mikell, of Hartford and two daughters, Deborah Glover of Georgia and Monique Mikell of Woodstock.

With the writer James Baldwin's brother David working at the club as a bartender, Mikell's drew Baldwin and other authors as regulars, including Tony Morrison, Amiri Baraka and Maya Angelou. Top studio musicians came to unwind there with late-night jam sessions, and around them a 1970's New York City style coalesced that mixed blues, gospel and soul roots with urban sophistication. It was a style that would permeate albums by Paul Simon, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan and many others, and would also define the sound of late-night television bands on "Saturday Night Live" and Mr. Letterman's shows.

An instrumental group of studio musicians, called Stuff, which formed in 1974, played at Mikell's three nights a week until 1980, and singers like Stevie Wonder and Joe Cocker would show up to sing with them. A teenage Whitney Houston made her solo debut at Mikell's after performing regularly there with her mother, the gospel singer Cissy Houston. One night, Cissy Houston told her daughter she was too ill to perform and Whitney would have to sing a set herself; it was a ploy to give Whitney her start. Clive Davis of Arista Records later discovered Whitney Houston during a Mikell's engagement.

The club remained an Upper West Side landmark through the 1980's, presenting mainstream jazz groups, pop-soul singers and Latin jazz. Ms. Mikell said that the trumpeter Wynton Marsalis sat in with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers there one night and was offered a spot in the group, a turning point in his career.

In 1991, Mr. Mikell took on outside investors to get a longer lease for the club, and problems with those investors led to bankruptcy and the club's closing. In the early 1990's, Mr. Mikell and his wife moved to Woodstock.

A 2004 tribute concert at Symphony Space reunited many of the club's performers and brought a proclamation from Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg that praised Mr. Mikell for "providing a stage for the world's most talented and ingenious poets, musicians and artists."

Mikell's - James Baldwin, Mike Mikell, James' brother David Balwin, who was bartender at the club

James Baldwin is writing himself into bad health. After two heart attacks, the author returns to New York City for some rest, relaxation and much-needed TLC. First on his itinerary is the iconic jazz club Mikell’s, a favorite hangout, where his brother David tends bar. But things have changed.

Mikell’s is closing, and his entourage this night consists of just Maya Angelou and Miles Davis. What’s intended as a celebration turns into an Irish wake for the not-yet deceased, instigated by Miles as James impulsively, on the spot, starts writing an elegy to his beloved old joint. It’s time to par-taayy!!

Mikell's NYC No X-Cess Baggage Blues Jon Hammond and The Late Rent Session Men

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 5.25 (before 1960)

567 BC – Servius Tullius, the king of Rome, celebrates a triumph for his victory over the Etruscans. 240 BC – First recorded perihelion passage of Halley's Comet. 1085 – Alfonso VI of Castile takes Toledo, Spain, back from the Moors. 1420 – Henry the Navigator is appointed governor of the Order of Christ. 1521 – The Diet of Worms ends when Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, issues the Edict of Worms, declaring Martin Luther an outlaw. 1644 – Ming general Wu Sangui forms an alliance with the invading Manchus and opens the gates of the Great Wall of China at Shanhaiguan pass, letting the Manchus through towards the capital Beijing. 1659 – Richard Cromwell resigns as Lord Protector of England following the restoration of the Long Parliament, beginning a second brief period of the republican government called the Commonwealth of England. 1660 – Charles II lands at Dover at the invitation of the Convention Parliament, which marks the end of the Cromwell-proclaimed Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland and begins the Restoration of the British monarchy. 1738 – A treaty between Pennsylvania and Maryland ends the Conojocular War with settlement of a boundary dispute and exchange of prisoners. 1763 – First issue of Norske Intelligenz-Seddeler, the first regular Norwegian newspaper (1763–1920). 1787 – After a delay of 11 days, the United States Constitutional Convention formally convenes in Philadelphia after a quorum of seven states is secured. 1798 – United Irishmen Rebellion: Battle of Carlow begins; executions of suspected rebels at Carnew and at Dunlavin Green take place. 1809 – Chuquisaca Revolution: Patriot revolt in Chuquisaca (modern-day Sucre) against the Spanish Empire, sparking the Latin American wars of independence. 1810 – May Revolution: Citizens of Buenos Aires expel Viceroy Baltasar Hidalgo de Cisneros during the "May Week", starting the Argentine War of Independence. 1819 – The Argentine Constitution of 1819 is promulgated. 1833 – The Chilean Constitution of 1833 is promulgated. 1865 – In Mobile, Alabama, around 300 people are killed when an ordnance depot explodes. 1878 – Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera H.M.S. Pinafore opens at the Opera Comique in London. 1895 – Playwright, poet and novelist Oscar Wilde is convicted of "committing acts of gross indecency with other male persons" and sentenced to serve two years in prison. 1895 – The Republic of Formosa is formed, with Tang Jingsong as its president. 1914 – The House of Commons of the United Kingdom passes the Home Rule Bill for devolution in Ireland. 1925 – Scopes Trial: John T. Scopes is indicted for teaching human evolution in Tennessee. 1926 – Sholom Schwartzbard assassinates Symon Petliura, the head of the government of the Ukrainian People's Republic, which is in government-in-exile in Paris. 1933 – The Walt Disney Company cartoon Three Little Pigs premieres at Radio City Music Hall, featuring the hit song "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?" 1935 – Jesse Owens of Ohio State University breaks three world records and ties a fourth at the Big Ten Conference Track and Field Championships in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 1938 – Spanish Civil War: The bombing of Alicante kills 313 people. 1940 – World War II: The German 2nd Panzer Division captures the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer; the surrender of the last French and British troops marks the end of the Battle of Boulogne. 1946 – The parliament of Transjordan makes Abdullah I of Jordan their Emir. 1953 – Nuclear weapons testing: At the Nevada Test Site, the United States conducts its first and only nuclear artillery test. 1953 – The first public television station in the United States officially begins broadcasting as KUHT from the campus of the University of Houston. 1955 – First ascent of Mount Kangchenjunga: On the British Kangchenjunga expedition led by Charles Evans, Joe Brown and George Band reach the summit of the third-highest mountain in the world (8,586 meters); Norman Hardie and Tony Streather join them the following day.

[existentialmagazine]

Review: dwn bad shares second ever single ‘So Loud for a Leaf’, a dreamy but saddened haze that aches through the dance of a long-distance relationship

Based in the vibrant musical landscape of Houston, TX, the upcoming artist dwn bad has found himself teetering between genres at every turn, showcasing nuance in each new single. With his debut ‘Palace of You’ released earlier this year, it’s just the start of understanding this versatile musician and the capabilities of his need for such diverse artistic expression. As the sole instrumentalist in the band, Derek Silva imparts a dynamic and personal touch to each composition.

Sharing now ‘So Loud for a Leaf’, dwn bad allows listeners in to a new slice of what he’s capable of, keeping the same consistent themes of rawness and connection even when his sound unravels between sounds. There’s always a hint of easy-listening with him though, at least so far, as ‘So Loud for a Leaf’ flows through your eardrums with such a dreamy concoction of indie sound. From reverb soaked electric guitar strums to steady drum beats, bass twangs and a distant electric guitar riff, pressing play on ‘So Loud for a Leaf’ really is a breath of fresh air, taking you through a sunny palette that’ll leave you refreshed and rejuvenated like it were an experience handcrafted for just you. The verse continues to dance through this soft ambience, pulling back on some of the intensity for just drums, bass and gentle strums to come centre stage for a hazy little package that dreams are made of. The vocals are equally floaty and light, gliding through a wide range while drawing out lines and cascading from high to low with ease.

As things continue, dwn bad shifts the tone a little, still carried by undertones of vibrancy but now a looming cloud of melancholia works its way through. Contrasting against the colourful haze of guitar, the darker drums and bass melt together with the vocals that have now changed towards a down-beat delivery, humming into lows and dreary admissions. The echoey reverb adds an even further sense of yearning here, every word hanging in the air like a ghost haunting the sound, a distant sense from the prior tranquility and ease it had allowed for.

It’s no surprise that lyrically ‘So Loud for a Leaf’ is just as complex as the soundscape, weaving between happiness and sadness at all turns. Inspired by the delicacy of long-distance relationships, it finds itself navigating new beginnings and the courage it takes to trust again, but it’s unclear whether that be with a partner across the globe or if they’re the cause of their broken heart. The opening feels the lightest, asking ‘can I keep my cool?’ and beaming that ‘I’ll give it all to you’ , loved-up like the first moments of meeting and falling in love for someone tend to be. But as time passes, it feels like the weight of their relationship begins to become more and more heavy, struggling through departures as dwn bad sings: ‘when we say goodbye, take my jacket, hope it keeps you warm in the wintertime.’ This line alone is so simple and yet depicts so much, revealing they won’t be meeting again through the entirety of the winter season, as well as the aching both share at being apart, longing for something that makes them feel closer. Admitting ‘every time, I cry’ , so much of what’s unveiled feels conflicted, uncertain in the distance between them, but carrying so much love that ending it would be torture. One line in particular stands out though, questioning ‘is it safe with you?’, an evidently post-trauma based thought that’s doused in insecurity, wondering if they can really allow down their guard and be with someone without even the normal security of seeing them often. ‘So Loud for a Leaf’ is truly an interesting listen, jumping between the love carried and the undertone of what if’s, it perfectly encapsulates the rocky ship that can be a long distance love, but often it’s worth the ride. Keep listening for yourself here, there’s so much to hear and listen to, it’s worth it.

Written by: Tatiana Whybrow

Photo Credits: David Mejia

// This coverage was supported and created via Musosoup, #SustainableCurator.

[robomi-os]

Playlist : MAMBO DISCO NIGHT 2023.04.22 (sat) at  Stella (Asakusa)

part 1 (21:00 - 22:45)

Forever Your Girl (12" Version) / Paula Abdul

Kiss (Dr Packer Rework) / Prince

Heart Of Glass (Oliver & Thee Mike B Remix) / Blondie

Just Be Good To Me (Dr Packer Remix - Extended) / The S.O.S Band

And The Beat Goes On (Purple Disco Machine Remix) / The Whispers

Never Too Much (Michael Gray Remix) / Luther Vandross

September  (Eric Kupper Extended Vocal Mix) / Earth, Wind & Fire

Daddy Cool (Paul Dakeyne Remix - Spirit Of '76 Mix - Extended) / Boney M.

Ride on Time (79 Disco Mix) / Black Box

真夜中のドア (DJ toHru remix３) / 松原みき

Running Up That Hill (Matt Pop 2007 Remix) / Kate Bush

Open Your Heart (Matt Pop 2020 Club Mix) / Madonna

We Should Be Dancing (12" Jig Saw Mix) / Kakko

Boys (Summertime Love) (Pete Hammond Remix) / Sabrina

Toy Boy (Extra Muscle Mix) / Sinitta

Downtown Boy (Tamekichi Mis TEST) / 松任谷由実

I'm Every Woman (Michael Gray Remix) / Chaka Khan

Relight My Fire (Almighty Club Mix) / Dan Hartman & Loleatta Holloway

Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You (Stonebridge Remix) / The Boys Town Gang

Lost In Love (Master Chic Mix) / Air Supply

Ai No Corrida (Pete Le Freq Remix - Extended) / Quincy Jones

Der Super Freak Kommissar / RICK JAMES vs FALCO

Boogie Wonderland (7Th Heavens Mirrorball Mix) / Earth Wind & Fire

part 2 (23:00 - 01:00)

Ain't Nobody (Dr Packer Remix - Extended) / Rufas & Chaka Khan

Hands Up In The Air (LNTG Rework) / LNTG (Do You Wanna Get Funky/C+C Music Factory)

Back N Forth (Casual Connection Rework) / Aaliyah

One Step Back Two Steps Forward / Loshmi (Back & Forth/Cameo)

Lovely Day / Late Nite Tuff Guy (Lovely Day/Bill Withers)

No Scrubs (Drop Out Orchestra Rework) / TLC

All Around The World (Dr Packer Remix - Extended) / Lisa Stansfield

Can I Kick It? (Sharam Jey Remix)/ A Tribe Called Quest

エトランゼ (peechboy Remix) / スピッツ

Funky Town (M.Hisataakaa Remix) / 安室奈美恵

Do You Wanna Get Funky (Got To Be Real) / C+C Music Factory

Good Love (Extended Hype Club Vibe) / Klymaxx

Until You Come Back To Me (Phil Harding 12" Remix) / Basia

I'll Be Good To You (Good For Your Soul Mix) / Quincy Jones

Don't Make Me Over (The Kingdom Come Mix) / Sybil

Piano In The Dark (12" Version) / Alan Matthews Project

Love Like This / Faith Evans

Freak Like Me (Radio Edit) / Adina Howard

Who Do You Love / Whitney Houston

Shy Guy (Radio Edit) / Diana King

This Is How We Do It (Radio Mix) / Montell Jordan

Right Here (Human Nature Radio Mix) / SWV

Our First Kiss (Late Nite Tuff Guy Rework) / Late Nite Tuff Guy (Tell Me/Vroove Theory)

Waterfalls / TLC

Boy Is Mine (Casual Connection Rework) / Brandy & Monica

Nite 2 Remember (Dr. Packer Rework)/ Shalamer

I Wanna Be With You (Craig Bartly [Fun Key Edit]) / Armenta

Never Give You Up (Michael Gray Remix) / Sharon Redd

Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now (The Reflex Revision) / McFadden & Whitehead

Boogie Nights (Dr Packer Remix - Extended) / Heatwave

Club Tropicana (Todd Terje Edit) / Wham

[posergrandpa]

like, billy is the kinda sleazy rock and roll type dude. he smokes more often than he breathes regular air, he drinks with reckless abandon, has intense rage issues and fucks his way through the girls in his year without a second thought

he’s going to be listening to twisted sister, to mötley crüe, to scorpions, def leppard

all of these bands subscribe to the typical rock and roll lifestyle of singing about sex, how much sex they have, how much they drink and do drugs and how much they love motorcycles

eddie is a metalhead in the 80’s; he’d decidedly not listen to the bands mentioned above, because the subject matter in metal music is decidedly different. it’s less about bragging and more about singing about specific themes. religion, war, fantasy, sci-fi, they’re more story songs instead of bragging. the music is usually heavier too.

all in all, there’s also more room in his repertoire for older stuff, i’d say. we know he loves dio, he loves sabbath (probably heaven & hell) but he also deeply respects ozzy, so he’s probably listened to their entire discography. led zeppelin and jimi hendrix are probably also part of his record collection, as a guitar player

overall i think jonathan has the most eclectic music taste, listening to bands like talking heads and the clash canonically. he’d probably enjoy the smiths too, i bet. i think he and eddie overlap the most in their tastes, but i think jonathan could also be found listening to actual punk bands and some new wave.

robin is a true new wave, 70’s female artists enjoyer to me; joan jett, the runaways, soft cell, the smiths, depeche mode, tears for fears!!! she’s THERE

which brings us to steve: like, bob seger enjoyer!! eagles, billy joel, bruce springsteen, queen, creedence clearwater revival!! he’s thee dad rock king and he loves tears for fears bc robin introduced him to it!! he tells eddie that he KNOWS who bon jovi is in a huff

nancy is a popular music queen; madonna ofc, but her love for blondie opens the door for a shared new wave enjoyment to share with robin, i bet that jonathan loves to share his music taste with her as well, but she’ll be a pop girlie forever. she’s there for whitney houston and taylor dayne, bananarama, cyndi lauper, michael jackson

who is out here putting duran duran on billy hargrove playlists? like,,, im doing research about the specific overlap and differences between eddie and billy (it’s a slow day at work sue me) and what makes the fandom morph some of their traits (or straight up swap up their traits for their specific vision)

billy is clearly an ac/dc, guns n roses, kiss guy

eddie listens to sabbath, judas priest, dio

steve is the duran duran enjoyer, obviously

[refinedbuffoonery]

Looking Through A Window (2)

macriley married undercover au

masterlist.

Oh man. My dudes. I received so much love and support and excited feedback on the first chapter that I thought my heart was going to explode. Y’all are so wonderful. Keep it up. <3

*****

Luckily, Matty lets them take the Phoenix jet to Houston. Flying commercial would make today even more tortuous than it already promises to be, albeit for a different reason. 

No matter how hard he tries to distract himself, Mac cannot stop staring at the diamond ring on Riley’s finger. The princess cut gem is stunning and ridiculously large, but it suits her cover as a lucrative arms dealer. A white gold wedding band sits below it. Riley left her usual assortment of rings at home, and Mac can’t help but think her long, delicate fingers look bare without them. 

He tears his eyes away from the rings again and again, both on the plane and while driving to the safe house. Riley drives with just her left hand, her right elbow resting on the center console. Mac likes driving, but there’s something relaxing about riding shotgun while Riley drives instead. He’s never been able to put a finger on it, but the sense of ease washes over him all the same. Admiring the way sunlight illuminates her engagement ring is simply a bonus. 

He doesn’t let himself imagine what he might give her, in an alternate future where she reciprocates his feelings and one day wants to marry him. 

Harley obediently lays in the backseat, staring out the windshield. She's been on her best behavior the entire twenty four hours Mac's known her, ever the professional. 

Which puts her completely at odds with Mac and Riley's shenanigans—cracking jokes, dancing on the plane and in the car, doing purposefully bad impersonations of Russ. These are the best parts of going on ops alone with Riley. They can let loose in a way they just couldn’t when anyone else other than Bozer was around. Everyone else is professional all the time; Mac and Riley are only professional when they have to be. 

Riley taps the steering wheel in time to the classic rock song on the radio. “What do you want for dinner?” 

“Dinner? We haven’t even had lunch yet!” 

“True.” Riley chuckles. “Can you tell I’m hungry?” 

Mac gives her a sly look. “Not at all.” 

They settle on Texas barbecue for lunch on their way to the safe house, because that’s what Jack would choose if he was here. If only the old man could see them now, all grown up and getting sent to take down terrorists unsupervised. 

Seated in a booth in the far corner of the restaurant, Mac raises his brisket sandwich in a toast to Jack, in whatever afterlife he found himself in. Hopefully it’s the one with an endless supply of good barbecue. 

“Oh man, Jack would’ve loved this,” Riley says through a mouthful of food. She sneaks Harley a piece of brisket. 

Mac smiles. “Yeah, he would’ve.” 

It’s easier, now, to talk about him. At first, Mac hadn’t been sure he could ever get to a point where talking about Jack didn’t make him want to hit something or just curl up and sob. 

But here he is, on the other side. Him and Riley both. 

Their safe house is another twenty minutes away from the restaurant, in a nice neighborhood full of trees and children playing on the sidewalks. It’s so much greener than a California neighborhood could ever dream of being. There’s even a park across the street from their apartment complex. It’s exactly the sort of place a young, affluent couple would want to live. 

Riley parks in their designated space, and the pair ascend the stairs to apartment number 202. Outside of the car, they don’t dare use each other’s real names until they’re sure the apartment is free of bugs. The place was furnished earlier that week by other Phoenix agents, but Mac and Riley do a thorough sweep of every room just in case. 

It’s a nice apartment. Wood flooring, granite countertops, matching cabinets throughout. There are pictures on the walls, but Mac doesn’t bother to stop and check what they are. 

Riley clears the space from back to front, so Mac does the opposite. He clears the kitchen first, frowning at the absence of any sort of food, before moving on to the living room. 

Mac stops dead in his tracks when he enters the bedroom. The singular bedroom. With a singular, queen-sized bed. 

Oh no. This is not happening. 

Mac shakes his head and rubs his eyes, hoping his mind is just playing tricks on him and that there’s actually two beds. Or a whole other room he missed before. 

The one and only bed seems to mock him. 

He walks back out, finding Riley already sitting at the kitchen table, turning on her laptop. “Uhh, Riles? There’s only—”

“One bed,” she finishes, not bothering to look up. “I know.” 

Oh god. He can’t do this. He can’t. Not with his dignity still intact. Mac stammers, “I’ll, uhh, sleep on the couch. You can have it.”

That gets Riley’s attention. “Don’t be ridiculous. We’re going to be here for weeks. You’ll hurt your back sleeping on the couch that long. Just sleep with me.” Riley’s eyes widen as she realizes what she just said. “In the bed,” she quickly adds. 

Mac ducks his head to hide his blush. 

“What are you working on?” he asks in a feeble attempt to distract himself from their sleeping situation. Because it will definitely be a situation if Mac’s not careful. 

“Connecting to the Wi-Fi,” Riley says in a slow, “What else would I be doing?” sort of way. 

“Right.” Mac silently curses himself. Of course that’s what she’s doing. “Anyway, I’m assuming you already know this, since you probably opened the fridge too, but we have no food.” 

“I saw.” She’s multitasking again, manicured fingers flying faster across her keyboard than Mac can keep track of. “Why don’t you unload our bags while I finish this, and then we can go.” 

Unable to help feeling like he’s been dismissed, Mac complies without protest. 

Soon they’re back in the car, headed to the grocery store, and the whole thing feels ridiculously domestic. Mac’s never been a fan of grocery shopping, but Riley makes it almost...fun. For starters, she’s not methodical about it the way Bozer and Desi are. But more than that, getting to spend time with her doing mundane, non-work stuff is a nice reminder that their relationship is more than just the job. They’re friends too. 

Mac wishes there is a way to tell her all that without it sounding weird. 

They come home, unload the groceries, and take Harley for a long walk, and that feels easy too. It feels normal, even though literally nothing about this situation is normal, and Mac already knows he’ll miss this when the op is over. 

But normalcy ends when Riley beckons Mac to sit beside her at the kitchen table, and together they write an advertisement for their arms dealing business. Once they’re satisfied with it, Riley sends it off into the dark web, and there’s nothing to do but wait, like a spider after spinning her web. 

The waiting is the worst part. 

Mac is contemplating taking Harley for a second walk when Riley asks, “Want to help me make dinner?” He takes one look at her hands on her hips and the “you don’t actually have a choice” look on her face and knows he’ll be left to fend for himself if he doesn’t help now. Mac learned that the hard way back when he and Riley lived together. 

“Sure.” 

They work in comfortable silence. Mac chops vegetables and grates cheese for their quesadillas while Riley does the actual cooking part. Even though they are doing separate tasks, Mac is acutely aware of every move Riley makes, no matter how insignificant. Flexing her long, thin fingers around a knife. Itching the back of her calf with her foot. Dancing in place, spatula in hand, while she waits to flip the quesadillas sizzling in the pan. 

Mac smiles softly. Her random little dances are cute. He’s noticed them more and more since realizing he has feelings for her, but if Mac is being honest, he’s always thought the dances are cute. 

Riley hisses as she peeks under the tortilla, checking to see if it’s browned yet. 

“You good?” Mac asks, frowning. 

“Yeah, I touched the pan by accident.” Riley runs her thumb under cold water. 

Her laptop dings while they eat. Wide-eyed, Mac glances at Riley. That was fast. She grimaces before sliding the laptop closer and checking the notification. 

“Is it them?” he asks tentatively. That’s the hard part about this; in order for their business to look more legit, they had to just put an ad out and hope for a response, rather than target the terrorist organization directly. 

Riley exhales. “No, it’s not them. It’s someone else.” 

Swallowing another bite of quesadilla, Mac says, “I don’t know whether I’m relieved or if that’s worse.” 

“Same.” 

There are no more responses that night.

*****

Mac wakes up in the same position he fell asleep in—on his side, facing outward, with as much space between him and Riley as possible. When they crawled into bed the night before, Riley did the same. 

Harley spent the night on the couch. 

She’s a very guarded dog, Mac is slowly realizing. Tolerating, but not trusting. Mac supposes he would be like that too if he was a dog and he got stuck with a bunch of strangers after his human suddenly disappeared one day. 

He makes coffee, feeds Harley breakfast, and takes a shower, all before Riley loses her battle with the snooze button and finally gets out of bed. While she showers, Mac takes Harley for a walk in hopes that the cool, spring air will ease the anxiety that took root the moment Riley released their ad into the void. 

It doesn’t. 

Dark, puffy clouds loom on the horizon, and the few birds Mac hears shriek at each other in warning. It looks like a storm is coming. 

When Mac returns, he’s met with a grim expression, one he understands without Riley uttering a single word. “They answered,” she confirms. 

“What did they say?” Unclipping Harley’s leash, Mac moves to stand behind Riley, resting his hands on the back of her chair. The scent of her shampoo tickles his nose, and he forces himself to ignore it and focus on what Riley’s saying. 

“They want to meet. Today.” 

“Time or place?” 

Riley points at a small box on her screen. “Just an address.” 

“What’s there?” 

“A warehouse,” Riley says. “Owned by the same shell corporation other Phoenix techs already tied to the organization.” 

“Not very clandestine, are they?” 

“No, they’re not.” Riley looks up at him, her head bumping his sternum, and butterflies ricochet inside Mac’s rib cage. There’s something soft in Riley’s expression that makes Mac want to kiss her. “Are you ready for this?” 

Mac sighs. “As ready as I ever am. Are you?” 

“Yeah,” she says, but her confidence falters. Without thinking, Mac squeezes her shoulders in reassurance before walking away to change.

*****

The warehouse is located on the edge of the city, in an industrial area that has certainly seen better days. Even from a distance, Mac can see cobwebs decorating the warehouse windows and rust creeping up the roller doors. Aside from Riley, there’s not another soul in sight. 

As per the directions the organization sent after Riley confirmed the meeting, Mac parks on the south side of the building, near the only functional-looking door. He doesn’t look at Riley as they get out of the car, instead desperately trying not to cringe at the cold, heavy weight of the gun holstered at his side, hidden beneath his jacket. 

High-end arms dealers couldn’t walk around unarmed, unfortunately. 

Although her hands are occupied with holding Harley’s leash, there’s a gun hidden beneath Riley’s suit jacket as well. Mac’s stomach churns. The second Riley emerged from their bedroom earlier wearing that jet black suit, she was a different person. She was wholly Genevieve Turner, and no matter how hard Mac tried, he couldn’t find even a single trace of his best friend beneath the icy exterior. 

Locking their SUV, Mac smooths the lapels of his own black suit and slips into character as well. 

The dark clouds Mac noticed earlier are directly overhead now. Mac has never believed in omens the way Jack did, but he can’t help hearing Jack’s voice in his head, warning him that black clouds are a sign of certain doom. Or something like that. 

There’s no one inside the warehouse, at least as far as Mac can see. “Hello?” he calls, the word echoing slightly in the open space. Aside from a few random wooden crates, the room is empty. 

A door slams, and then an older man comes into view. He’s probably in his late fifties, with graying hair and a beer belly his shirt doesn’t quite cover. The man swaggers like he owns the place, although Mac doubts the leader of a terrorist cell would deign to play tour guide. 

No doubt there’s a quip on the edge of Riley’s tongue about entitled white men, but she doesn’t share it. 

The man extends a hand to Mac in introduction. “Conrad.” His sneer doesn’t reach his eyes. 

Mac frowns, keeping his hands at his sides. “Last name?” 

“Doesn’t matter.” 

What he’s about to say might screw everything up before it even starts, but Mac says it anyway. In his gut, he knows it’s the right call. “If it doesn’t matter, then we’re done here. My wife and I have no interest in entering a business relationship with someone too inexperienced to understand that trust is integral to any transaction.” Mac spins on his heel and strides toward the door, Riley falling into step beside him. 

“Wait!” the man calls. They pause, turning around slowly. “Deacon. Conrad Deacon.” The man seems to know he’s already lost. Good. “Welcome to the cause.” He gestures for Mac and Riley to follow him. 

Mac stands his ground. In his peripheral, Riley stands utterly still, the perfect mask of cool, collected neutrality. Almost bored, even. It’s scary how easily she becomes her cover. 

“Come on now,” Conrad says, taking a single step forward. “We have much to discuss.” 

That’s enough of the power play, Mac thinks, but just as he’s about to give in and follow Conrad, Riley utters a single, sharp command that rings through the room. “Sit.” 

Harley obeys. 

Riley’s lips curve in a cruel, taunting smile. “Then enlighten us.” Mac suppresses a shiver; he’s seen this side of Riley plenty of times before, watched her hone it over the years, but it’s still unnerving. Admittedly, it’s also kind of hot. 

Conrad ignores her entirely. He croons, “Why don’t we start with your names?” It’s phrased like a question. It sounds like a question, but Mac sees the demand for what it really is. 

Mac gestures to Riley. “This is my wife, Genevieve Turner. And my name is James.” His father’s name tastes like ash on Mac’s tongue. 

“And the dog?” 

“Killer,” Riley sneers. Mac isn’t sure if she’s kidding or not. 

Again, Conrad doesn’t acknowledge her. “James, why don’t I give you the tour and explain what we do here.” 

“We’ll go on the tour, but we are not here to join your cause.” It takes every ounce of Mac’s willpower to maintain his neutral tone. “All we care about is what you’d like us to provide and how much you’ll pay for it.” 

Conrad doesn’t hide his displeasure. “Fine. Follow me.” 

Mac and Riley are led through the open warehouse. The layout is straightforward and nearly impossible to get lost in. But after Conrad shows them a room full of rifles—countless hung on the walls, floor to ceiling, the rest in half-open crates—Mac finds himself counting the number of wooden shipping crates scattered around the building. 

He doesn’t like his final number. 

Arming terrorists doesn’t sit well with Mac, even if it serves a purpose. It makes him sick, knowing he will likely be indirectly responsible for their next attack. 

Especially because those crates are no doubt full of the kind of rifles designed to kill people most effectively. The ones hanging on the wall are military grade, probably cutting-edge. Desi would know exactly what they are and how they work. 

Trusting Riley is paying close attention, Mac only half listens to Conrad babble about the cause. But then the older man says something that stops Mac in his tracks. “Our country is being run into the ground by whiny do-nothings,” Conrad asserts, “who waste our money and spew garbage that some people matter more than others. Well, you know what? Hardworking, everyday Americans matter. But no,” he scoffs, “those damn liberals don’t like it when we remind them of the truth. Once we’re rid of them and the insufferables who elected them, this country will be better off.” 

The ground sways under Mac’s feet. He knows these people believe this, read it in Matty’s extensive briefing notes. But it’s another thing entirely to hear someone say it to his face. 

He can only imagine what Riley must be thinking. 

Clearing his throat, Mac tries to redirect the conversation. “Like I said, we don’t care about your cause. Just tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll be on our way.” 

Conrad eyes him suspiciously, but complies. “We’re looking for something a little more than what you can get at the store, you know?” 

Mac doesn’t, not exactly. He’ll have to ask Desi later. “I do,” he lies. 

“Good. Here’s what we’re willing to pay for it.” He hands Mac a folded piece of paper, and Mac does a double take when he reads the number. There are a lot of zeroes. “And as a show of good faith, we’d like it delivered tomorrow.” 

“Tomorrow?” Riley splutters. Mac feels it then, the broiling rage slipping through a crack in her persona. He needs to get her out of there. Now. Not just to preserve the op, but for Riley’s wellbeing. Some audacity Matty has making Riley play nice with men like this. 

Mac slides his hands into his pockets, using the movement as a cover to brush his knuckles against Riley’s fist. I know. I’m here. I’m sorry. 

For the first time, Conrad addresses Riley directly. “Yes. Tomorrow. Unless that’s something you can’t do?” 

“We can do that,” she replies calmly, and the difference between her reactions is like night and day. As quickly as that crack appeared, it was gone. 

“Excellent.” Conrad takes another step toward Riley, offering to shake hands, but Harley’s low, menacing growl keeps him at bay. Rewarding the dog with a quick scratch on the head, Riley closes the gap and shakes Conrad’s still-outstretched hand. 

“It’s a deal,” she says. Following suit, Mac shakes Conrad’s hand as well and follows Riley out the door, neither of them uttering another word. 

Mac drives. One look at Riley’s trembling fist decides for him. 

By the time the warehouse disappears from the rearview mirror, he can’t take the silence anymore. “Hey,” Mac starts, but Riley cuts him off with a hand. 

“Not until we’re inside.” 

They hit every single red light between the warehouse and the apartment, and Mac anxiously taps the steering wheel. Raindrops land on the windshield. They’re small at first, but soon the drops are large and numerous enough to refract the streetlights, and Mac struggles to see where he’s going. He adjusts the windshield wipers over and over, never landing on the right speed. 

Too slow. Too fast. Too slow. Too fast. 

Mac settles on a setting that’s slightly too fast, and the squeak of rubber on glass nearly matches his heart thudding in his chest. 

Riley stares straight ahead, unmoving, unblinking. Mac wants to reach out, to let a gentle touch say what he verbally can’t, but the road is slick enough to make him keep two hands on the wheel. We’re almost there, he reassures himself. 

By the time he parks, it’s pouring hard enough that the ten second walk from the car to the door soaks them to the bone. Riley’s hands shake as she unlocks the apartment door. 

Once they’re inside and Mac unclips Harley’s leash, Riley turns to him with pained, pleading eyes. His heart breaking all over again, Mac draws her in for a long, tight hug. She doesn’t say anything. She doesn’t have to. 

Mac just cradles the back of her head and sways gently, wishing he could fix the world for her. 

Neither pulls away, even when Riley suddenly says, “If Conrad was smart, he would’ve had someone bug our car while he paraded us around the warehouse. I don’t think he’s actually smart enough to do that, but we should check first, just in case.” 

Mac curses himself for not thinking of that. “Good call.” He rubs Riley’s back, hoping the gesture is soothing. “I hate the way he treated you,” he snarls. “Like you weren’t even worth acknowledging.” 

“Welcome to being a woman.” 

It was more than that. They both know it. But neither say it.

*****

“You need what?” Matty shrieks over the phone. 

Mac winces. “Sorry.” He’d called Desi first, to ask what kind of guns Conrad meant with his innuendo, and received a verbal lashing for not asking any follow-up questions. But she made her best guess anyway. Now on the phone with Matty, it doesn’t take even a single brain cell to know that her reaction will be much, much worse. 

“He wants us to prove ourselves,” Riley adds. “As a show of good faith.” The words come out dripping in venom, but their boss doesn’t comment. Mac takes a second to study her; Riley changed into leggings and an oversized flannel shirt, and there are still remnants of dark makeup smudges under her eyes. Now, she’s sitting on the kitchen counter with her knees tucked into her chest. It’s weird to see her take up so little space. 

Matty sighs, deeply and loudly in a way conveys her annoyance more than words ever could. “Fine. A few weeks ago, Border Control confiscated a huge shipment of smuggled guns near El Paso, so I’ll see if we can borrow those. But next time, Blondie, don’t make promises you can’t keep.” He doesn’t correct Matty in that it was Riley who made the deal. That would only add fuel to the fire. 

“Thank you,” he says, and Matty hangs up. Mac runs a hand through his damp hair. “That went well.” Riley’s lips twitch, but it’s not the amused reaction he hopes for. He’s at a complete loss regarding what to say to her, so Mac gently asks, “What can I do?” 

Riley slides off the counter, and Mac reaches for her automatically, although he doesn’t actually touch her; his hand hovers just beside Riley’s elbow. She doesn’t shrink away, but she makes no move to touch him either. 

“Help me put him and everyone like him in a deep, dark hole where they can’t hurt anybody. And then just…” she trails off, taking a deep breath. “Keep being you.” 

With that, she walks away, leaving Mac alone in the kitchen, racking his brain to figure out what that last part means.

*****

Later that night, Mac tosses and turns, replaying Conrad’s words. Once we’re rid of them and the insufferables who elected them, this country will be better off. They seem off-kilter, like what the man said and what he really meant are misaligned. Mac sighs, rubbing his face. 

Another bolt of lightning illuminates the bedroom, and Mac automatically counts the seconds until he hears thunder rumbling in the distance. The storm is moving closer. 

Beside him, Riley lies on her back with her eyes closed, although her breathing is too light for her to be asleep. Mac wonders if her mind is just as loud and chaotic as his. 

For Riley’s sake, he hopes it’s not.

*****

Sleep never finds Mac. 

The storm rages all through the night, but by the time dawn arrives, the thunder and wind dissipate, leaving just the steady downpour. The clouds are dark enough that Mac can hardly tell the sun even bothered to rise this morning. 

When Riley’s alarm goes off, it’s like the shrill tone is mocking Mac for being awake. Riley groans as she shuts it off. 

“Morning,” he mumbles. His throat hurts. He needs water. “Did you sleep well?”

Another groan. “No.” 

“At least you slept,” Mac mutters.

Riley rolls onto her side, drawing one of the extra pillows into her chest. “Do you always toss and turn that much?”

It was his fault, he realizes, that she didn’t sleep. Mac suddenly feels guilty. “Sorry. And no.” 

He expects Riley to be upset at being kept awake, but she isn’t. With a look that just might be understanding, she softly asks, “What were you thinking about?” 

Mac can’t say that his thoughts whip around his mind like raindrops in last night’s storm. Not without sounding crazy, at least. So instead he says, “I don’t even know. I just have a bad feeling about this.” 

“Me too,” Riley admits. “It feels off.” Her eyes are heavy, and Mac’s had enough early mornings with Riley to know it’s not just the lack of sleep weighing her down. 

“Go back to sleep. I can handle the delivery.” 

Riley rolls her eyes. “Don’t be ridiculous. I’m not letting you do that by yourself.” 

He doesn’t argue. “Okay.” 

A moment passes between them. It’s been happening more and more lately—holding eye contact a little too long, sharing smirks when no one else is looking, stealing moments where it’s just the two of them and nothing else matters. Each one gives him hope that there’s not a wall between them, but instead, a door. Someone just has to be brave enough to open it. 

Sitting up, Riley quipps, “Just don’t make me regret letting you sleep in the bed with me.” Mac snorts. 

“No promises.”

.

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