#I wonder if there is any Latino in the team

[algumaideia]

NEMI!! i have sososo many questions about ted lasso for you :)) firstly what episode are you on, who is your favourite character and i NEED to know your thoughts on jamie tartt so far

Theodore!

I only watched ep 1. I really liked the friendship between the coaches. The owner of the club is a queen and a girlboss, like a gif was the best line of the episode. I remember the name of 3 characters: Nathan, Ted Lasso and Trent. I bet Ted is going to have a mental breakdown. I'm curious to see what they are going yo do with Nathan.

*after Google search* I did not like Jamie and the whole team attitude towards his girlfriend. And I would like to know what his girlfriend thought about Ted. She seems nice I want to see more of her.

I also think the idea that Ted went to England bc his wife wanted some space to coach a sport he knew nothing about very funny.

But I'm on ep 1 so I don't have much to say.

[prettypynklemonade]

Torn (part 2)

By PrettyPynkLemonade

Part 1

Author's note at the bottom

proofread by @trippinsorrows

cw/tw: alcohol use, violence, military, sexual tension, power dynamics, flirting, character growth (let me know if I've missed anything)

Word count: 1.7k

August 5th, 2016

Adora wasn’t sure how to contain her excitement. This was easily the best day of her life, not counting the day she had enlisted. Being promoted to Major and then 2 months later being asked to join a special task force? Nothing could bring her high down.

She was one of very few women of color to have the many opportunities that had been afforded to her whilst she’d been enlisted. She knew part of it was being a legacy kid. Her mom had been a Command Sergeant Major in the army and being an army brat who could speak 4 languages by the age of 10 had intrigued a lot of the higher ups before she’d even been of age. It was no wonder she had exceeded expectations all with an air of excitement.

When she made the decision to enlist, it was an easy one. Adora spent most of her life on bases and travelling the world. She wasn’t comfortable staying in one place for too long, and while she was particular about her environment, she was adaptable. Joining a new team and being able to work on specialty projects was something she had only dreamed of and was more than capable of excelling at.

And Adora was riding high on that feeling until she walked into the shabby building housing more boxes filled with paper and dust than she’d ever seen in her life.

She knew this Special Unit that Reacher was putting together was new, but she wasn’t exactly prepared for the building to be so…decrepit. To be fair she hadn’t been prepped for any part of this new endeavor, but that was always the exciting part of the army: expecting the unexpected. And no one was more unexpected than Jack Reacher.

He was a tank of a man and she’d be lying if she said that she didn’t have a massive crush on him. His striking eyes and his body were one thing, but his rank and intelligence? Beautiful. He’d risen through the ranks like her, was heading up his own unit, and was known to follow a strict code of conduct. Just tell Adora that he also loved puppies, and she was a taken woman.

Walking into the spacious room behind Calvin Franz (another seemingly nervous) recruit and Reacher, Adora couldn’t help but feel there was some tension between their new “team” to say the least. She took survey of the mismatched group while Reacher was putting an obnoxiously blonde man in his place. Outside of the blonde who she believed was named O’Donnell; she took note of a black woman with soulful eyes, a white woman with dark hair who looked like she worked at a bank, a cute Asian man strumming a guitar, a black man that was old enough to be her dad (she’d have to see if he knew her mother), 2 beautiful Latino men (one with a large back tattoo), and of course Franz and Reacher. 10 people who would be tasked with working together for an unspecified amount of time.

She blanked out during the beginning of Reacher’s monologue, where she realized this was the most, she had probably ever heard the real-life G.I. Joe speak. They hadn’t interacted with each other much during their time enlisted, but in the few interactions they had shared he didn’t say much, but he handled his business. She wasn’t sure if his silence was intentional or if it was to keep himself distant from others. If it was to keep people away, that was unfortunate because she could definitely see herself keeping a close eye on him.

“…The army wanted a unit for particularly complex matters when they arose. To do that I need Special Investigators, not generic MPs.” Reacher concluded.

One of the Latino men with Orozco tatted on his back raised his hand before speaking “If we’re so special, why did the stick us in this dump? I mean, what is up with this place?” he asked with a laugh, which others on the team couldn’t help but join.

“Few years ago, Uncle Sam made an auction bid for some land down the road. Entered the address backwards and became the proud owners of this building and the contents of the now-defunct Callahan Insurance Agency…But you’re right. Place could work a little better.” Reacher explained.

Adora snorted “A little better? This place is a dump with a capital D and only bleach and hard work could make this even remotely workable.”

With a blink and you’d miss it smile, which she did not miss, Reacher continued and said, “Okay team, you heard the woman, straighten up these boxes and move these old tanker desks to the middle of the room.”

The rest of the team sighed and shifted their glares to Adora. She rolled her eyes and flipped her hair completely nonplused, “I just said what everyone else was thinking and I won’t apologize for it.”

Reacher sensing the tension said “Let’s go. You don’t have to call me ‘Major,’ but you do have to move your ass when I say so. Get to it.”

Adora stretched her legs and shoulders before grabbing a tanker box with the Black girl with the soulful eyes and they began exchanging pleasantries. She came to learn her name is Frances Neagley “Just Neagley please” and she was a Seargent, which was surprising. Not because she didn’t seem capable of the job, but Reacher picking someone relatively new seemed intriguing and she loved things that piqued her interest. Adora was never one to undermine Black women and if Neagley was on her team, then she knew they were more than equals, titles be damned.

“Reacher’s paying for beers once we’re done here” Franz announced walking over to the two women, and while the rest of the team looked slightly more upbeat after that, Adora could only think *This team is gonna need a hell of a lot of beer to make this thing work*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nothing could have prepared her for the uncomfortable silences during their bar visit. Adora wasn’t a heavy drinker, but she put that thought behind her while she sipped her 3rd beer to stay present during the more than awkward hang out session. She looked around the room, putting on her surveillance eyes and noticed too many men looking in their direction. She wasn’t sure why Reacher chose this place to drink, but she was almost a thousand percent sure this wasn’t going to end well…

And well…

Adora loved and hated that she was right about that outcome.

When the 91st approached their table and threatened Neagley, she was more than ready to go to bat for her sister in arms. But she didn’t get the chance before Reacher was already aggressively defending Neagley and the rest of the team. Of course that did lead to a bar fight, but what better way to unite a team than beating the shit out of another one?

And when Swan (the cute Asian) suggested they get out of there, because he knew the perfect place for a bonfire, how could the team refuse? And they warmed up to each other even more when Adora suggested they stop to pick up food and drinks on the way.

They’d all been fraternizing after drinking a few drinks more than she’d ever admit to, and she could feel the heavy and intoxicating effects of the alcohol and now all she wanted to do was get under a certain someone before the night was over.

Before the angel on her shoulder could stop her, Adora walked over to the Jeep where Reacher and Neagley were drinking and laughing at Swan’s perfectly imperfect singing. She didn’t care if Neagley heard her drunken attempts at getting Reacher to loosen up, someone had to get that man’s hips to move and Adora was the perfect candidate.

“You knew that fight was going to happen, didn’t you?” she asked coyly. She may have been drunk but she was all too aware that asking him to dance straight-up wouldn’t work, even if she was a little impatient.

“I mean, he didn’t ask nicely.” Reacher supplied with a sly smile.

“Was there any way he could have asked that didn’t end up with us throwing hands?”

“He could have said please.”

“And if I was to ask you to pretty-please dance, does that mean you’ll say yes?”

Reacher looked her up and down and Adora spun in a circle to give him an even better view. She knew he’d been looking at her anyways and who was she to not help, when help was obviously needed? She may be slim, but the girl had curves in all the right places that decades of exercise only seemed to enhance exponentially.

“As nice as that sounds, these 2 left feet prefer to stay planted on solid ground” he said while biting his lip, recognizing that she was trouble and while he never ran from trouble in his life, she was more than he could handle right now especially with the many beers in his system.

Adora smiled “Well, you know where to find me if you ever need a dance lesson.”

As she walked away, with an undeniable sway in her hips, she missed Neagley shoving Reacher and saying, “You should have taken her up on that offer, I doubt she makes it again.”

“I’m her superior, no amount of cute smiles and fluttering eyelashes is going to make me forget that… no matter how pretty she asks” he was slightly disappointed in himself for never letting his code falter. If she wasn’t on his team and if they weren’t drunk as hell, he wasn’t 100% sure that his answer would have been a no. To a dance or otherwise.

Adora’s good mood didn’t falter by Reacher’s unexplainable dismissal, she knew what she had to offer and what his code was. She was capable of just being happy to be in his presence and the presence of her new team members. This was the beginning of the rest of her life, and there was nothing that could bring her down.

Author's Note:

Thank you so much to everyone who read the first part of the story and showed love. I really appreciate it, especially with me just getting back into writing. Please ask me any questions you have, give your opinions and please be respectful. I'm doing this for fun and want to keep that energy going for any interactions.

Tag List: @sabrina-carpenter-stan-account @trippinsorrows @proceduralpassion @wwecrazed2010 @beas-mind @hotsauceeater @reacherfan @reignsboy19 @shitt-imfinished @jayjayem1999 @yana3sworld @dumbasswhorebug @prettyvampofsorrows

[thechildbythesea]

Request - "The Story We Weren't Told"

@rubixpsyche

hi there! i am so sorry that this story took so long! i hope it is worth the wait!

also, i may have gotten carried away, sorry

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Summary: A silly little story in which, as per the usual shenanigans, Miko finds her way to somewhere she shouldn’t, dragging a concerned Raf and Jack with her.

Only, the “silly” doesn’t last as long as it should.

Word Count: 3763

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It had been nearly half a steller cycle since Optimus Prime had checked up on the Rescue Bots in Griffin Rock. The Prime was curious as to how they were getting along with the mission he had given them and was starting to wonder if the Decepticons had found their way to their part of the world.

“For their sake, I hope not…” Optimus muttered to himself, lightly shaking his helm as he decided to contact the Rescue Bots. With the activity from the Decepticons as of late, especially with how widespread their sightings seemed to be getting, Optimus was getting worried that it wouldn’t be long before the cons stumbled across Griffin Rock and the Rescue Bots. 

Not to mention the many experimental technologies that littered the island. The technology may be primitive when compared to Cybertronian technology, however, he couldn’t deny just how dangerous the tech could be if the cons managed to get their servos into Doc Greenes Lab, or worse, find their way to that island where they hideaway dangerous tech.

As the other side rang out, the humans along with their guardians returned to the base; laughing and conversations about the school day could be heard as the trio of young humans climbed up to the station they had made their own. Optimus couldn’t help the small and rare smile as he watched the trio from the corner of his optic.

“This is Heatwave, of Sigma 17- Oh, Optimus!” Heatwave stopped his formal greeting as he saw who it was, most likely not expecting to see the Autobot Leader so soon. Heatwave’s posture got noticeably straighter as he spoke to the prime.

“Hello Heatwave, I wanted to check in and see how your mission is faring.” He explained, watching as Heatwave went from being confused back to a neutral look “I believe it’s going well, me and my team have learned a lot from our human partners. And from the island inhabitants.”

“Even from Kade Burns?” The Prime’s tone was almost amused, as he had witnessed the sort of rivalry between the fire rescue team. 

As much as the two butted heads, Heatwave and Kade had more in common than either of them seemed to realize, or would have cared to admit. 

Heatwave turned his helm away from the screen, almost as if he was embarrassed to admit it. “Well, despite his best efforts, yes, even from Kade.” Heatwave finally answered after a few nano-klicks had passed, facing the screen once more. 

However, the attention from the rescue bot seemed to have been cut short as Heatwave’s helm suddenly snapped to the side once more as he heard the rescue alarm sound “I hate to cut this short, but I must-”

“No need to explain Heatwave, I will contact you later.” With a final nod, Heatwave ended the video feed. Miko looked up at the Prime “Who was that?” She asked, leaning against the railing, Optimus looked down at the young girl “That was Heatwave, leader of the Rescue Bots located in Griffin Rock.”

“Griffin Rock? Never heard of it.” Miko casually stated with a shrug, but Raf’s eyes lit up at the name “I have! It’s the capital of engineering! New technology is constantly being developed and tested there!” The young Latino stated with such enthusiasm, pulling up a picture of Griffin Rock on his laptop, and showing it to his friends.

“That there is Chief Charlie Burns,” he started, pointing to a tall man, wearing a police uniform, his hair was silver, with a moustache to match. Whether his hair was that colour from being old, or the stress of the job was any of the teen's guesses, though the man was fit and looked like he had more than a few years left in him. 

“These are his four kids. They run the Rescue team on the island. A true family of heroes!” Jack looked at the picture, and immediately focused on the four tall robots in the background, standing behind the family, and upon taking a closer look, he saw the distinct insignia of the Autobots that was located on each of the bot's chassis’ “So, those are the rescue bots?” He asked, looking back at Optimus as he pointed to the image, the prime simply nodded.

“Rescue Bots? I thought they were all gone.” Arcee stated as she walked up to the group, Bumblebee following right behind her. They were both surprised to find out that no one had told them that there were rescue bots still around. “Why aren’t they here?”

“Because I didn’t want them in danger of the Decepticons. If Megatron finds out of their existence…” Optimus trailed off, the looks on his team's faceplates solidifying he didn’t need to continue that sentence. 

And while the children understood the gravity of the situation, they all grew curious about the Rescue Bots, but silently agreed they would save those questions for another time.

After a few hours, when he was sure, or at least hoped, that the rescue day had calmed down, Optimus decided to contact the Burns Family directly. When the commlink was answered, young Cody Burns showed up on the screen, the young blonde smiling wide “Optimus!” He said enthusiastically “Heatwave told us, well told Kade, who told the rest of us, that you had called this morning.” the young boy explained with a smile on his features, but his face soon shifted into worry “Wait, is there something wrong? Is that why you're calling back?”

“No, my young friend, there is nothing wrong.” The Prime started reassuringly “I was hoping to speak with your father about another visit to the island.” Optimus finally admitted, causing Cody to relax and drawing the attention of the teens of Team Prime. 

“Sure thing. Dad should be in his office. I’ll patch you through to him.” 

While Optimus began to talk to the Chief, Miko gathered her two friends into a huddle “We should totally follow Optimus when he goes to Griffin Rock!” She whispered excitedly, hoping not to draw attention. Jack gave her a credulous look “No, Miko, we shouldn’t.” He stated in a final tone. Miko pouted “You are no fun. You heard what Raf said! There’s so much to do there!” Her excitement at the possibility of the chance of going to a completely new place was obvious, but Jack wasn’t having it.

Jack was sure that if it was possible, a vein would be popping at the top of his head, the oldest sighed “Miko, we can’t just go! We need to think about what my mom, Raf’s parents and your host parents would think!” Jack argued, Miko simply shrugged, her usually carefree look on her face “My host parents don’t care… I’m pretty sure I scare them.” She sounded almost a bit too proud at that last statement, the smile she had only proved it. Jack looked at Raf, who looked a little sheepish, picking the skin off his fingers “If I tell my parents I’m with a friend and I’m keeping up with my studies they won’t mind.” Raf’s face was starting to look hopeful too. Jack sighed, running a hand through his hair as he knew for a fact his mom would say no to the whole thing. She would definitely kill him.

Bulkhead looked over at the trio, raising a suspicious optic ridge to Miko specifically, he knew her well enough by now to know when she was planning something “Miko, what are you planning now?” He asked, making Miko jump, turn and smile innocently “Nothing Bulk! Just chatting with my friends about schoolwork!” She said, trying her best to sound as innocent as possible. As much as those puppy eyes weakened him, Bulkhead remained suspicious of Miko.

“Thank you, Chief Burns. I shall see you tomorrow afternoon then.” Optimus stated and Charlie nodded “Of course, it’s a pleasure to have you anytime, Optimus. And you can tell me more about that worry once you're here.” Optimus nodded once, before ending the call. As secure as he knew their commlink was, Optimus didn’t want to take any chances.

The Prime turned to the side, just in time to see Bulkhead and Arcee interrogating Miko. 

“Come on! I’m not always planning mischief!”

“That’s a lie, you're always causing some sort of trouble.”

“Hey! Bulkhead! Tell her!”

“Sorry Miko, but I’m siding with Arcee here.”

Miko growled, stomping her foot before flopping down on the old couch, pouting.

Optimus shook his helm fondly, the small smile going unnoticed by his team.

The next day, the teens weren’t at school and had arrived at the base early to watch morning cartoons with Bumblebee. As Ratchet and Optimus prepared the ground bridge for its next destination, the medic let out a deep vent “Optimus, I can understand the concern for the Rescue Bots. But surely, a visit this soon isn’t necessary.” Optimus looked down at his old friend, he understood why his medic was so concerned. Optimus let out a soft vent of his own “I know, old friend, but I fear the Decepticons may be getting close to the island.”

Ratchet narrowed his optics up at Optimus, who only placed a gentle servo on his shoulder “I will be no more than three solar cycles.” The pointed staring contest didn’t last long, Ratchet deeply sighing once more before pressing in the coordinates for Griffin Rock’s Rescue Station.

The chief had agreed that if the threat Optimus was worried about truly was on the island, ground bridging into the station would be best. 

-

“Optimus is coming? Here? Today?!!” Blades voice was full of shock and a bit of panic, and Heatwave could understand why; it was short notice on the Chief's part.

The chief nodded, an apologetic look on his face “Yes, and I’m sorry, I did mean to tell you yesterday, but with the surge of rescues that happened, I didn’t have the time.”

“We can understand Chief, the number of rescues yesterday threw us all off,” Heatwave said in understanding. And honestly, it didn’t make much sense to him. Sure their island had its fair share of mishaps and issues, but half of what happened; things going haywire, buildings collapsing with no proof the building's structure was compromised naturally, none of it sat right in Heatwave’s processor, Boulder had even commented about possible sabotage, as it wouldn’t be the first time someone tried to give them a bad rep. And while they brushed it off at first, Heatwave wasn’t so sure now.

“Optimus should be here any minute. He informed me that he’ll be “ground bridging” directly into the station.”

Heatwave raised an optic ridge at that piece of information; usually, Optimus would travel a little less obviously, the prime often finding himself travelling on the ferry. “Excuse me, Chief.” Heatwave started as he watched the oldest human leave, Charlie turned back and looked at the Rescue Bot leader “Why is Optimus ground bridging?” The human simply shrugged “I’m not sure, he said there was something he needed to discuss with us, but he didn’t feel the commlink was secure enough.”

Heatwave thought that was odd, but only nodded as he let the chief continue with his morning routine for the team.

Exactly at Noon, Optimus stepped through the ground bridge and into the Rescue Station, when he arrived, he only noticed Cody was there to greet him. “Hello, young burns.” He greeted, looking around the room for any sign of the other humans. “Hey Optimus, Dad wanted me to fill you in on all the details,” Cody stated, getting right to the point as if he could read the question that was lingering on the Prime’s processor. It seems the feeling that Optimus had was not simply his paranoia running wild.

As the ground bridge closed behind the Prime, 3 figures emerged from the closing portal. Cody looked at the humans curiously. “Ugh, that I don’t think I will ever get over that feeling..” the shortest of the trio muttered, a sickly look on his face.

The girl beside him giggled “I know! It bothered me at first, but now it feels electric! It's awesome!”

The final was a boy with black hair, who looked really annoyed “We are so going to get into trouble once Optimus spots us!” He sounded the oldest, and very exacerbated.

“Hey! Who are you three?” The blond asked, tilting his head curiously.

Miko opened her mouth to speak but the deep, disapproving voice of the Prime sounded instead “They’re in big trouble.”

Jack glared at Miko while Raf walked up to Cody. Upon closer inspection, it looked like the two were the same age. The Latino smiled and offered his hand “They’re Miko Nakadai and Jack Darby. I’m Rafael Esquivel, but most call me Raf. I’ve heard a lot about you.” 

Cody smiled and took the other boy's hand “Cody Burns, wish I could say the same.” He said with a light laugh. 

“What are you three doing here?” Optimus asked as he lowered himself to his knee so he was more level with the human children. “It was Miko’s fault.” Jack stated, the volume of his voice was level but his tone showed just how annoyed he was at the younger teen “She somehow convinced Raf to follow you through the ground bridge when you left. I chased after them because I thought I would be able to stop them before the bridge closed.” Jack explained, fighting the urge to keep glaring at Miko.

The Japanese girl rolled her eyes and crossed her arms “Puh. Lease. As if you didn’t want to come!” She accused, Jack snarled, narrowing his eyes “Even if I did; that isn’t an excuse! Did either of you-”

“I told my parents I would be staying at a friend's to study for upcoming exams. As long as I send proof of the work I’m doing, which should be easy enough, they said it was fine.” Raf explained, fixing his glasses that had slipped down his nose.

“I told my host parents the same, they were against it at first, but when I mentioned Raf, they were all for it.” Miko stated, her demeanour as confident as ever with a cocky smirk. Jack groaned as he ran a hand through his hair “Well good for you! Because I had no plans of joining in and thus; Mom doesn’t know!” 

Cody watched the commotion with a smile, it sort of reminded him of how his siblings often bickered with each other “Um, if you want, we can go to the com room that Heatwave uses and contact your base. To try and sort this out?” Cody offered, looking at the prime, who in turn was looking at his human charges. Optimus let out a deep vent before nodding.

-

Even though it was a quick call, Jack thought it lasted far longer, since with all the rules his mom listed, it felt like at least 2 hours. 

“I can’t believe my mom let me stay…” Jack said, in disbelief, Miko smirked at the older teen, nudging him lightly “You know your mom is weak to Optimus’ charms.” She chimed, making him groan “Ugh! Don’t remind me!”

Cody looked at Raf with a confused look “What do they-” Raf shook his head with a smile “I’ll tell you later.”

As the group returned to the main section of the Rescue base, Cody was quick to notice his family and the rescue bots were waiting for them. “It’s good to see you made it Optimus,” The chief greeted before seeing the three teens standing behind his youngest.

The oldest looked a little sheepish at intruding, the girl was just grinning as she looked towards the bots while the youngest was staring at the bots in awe.

“Who are your friends, Optimus?”

“This is Jack, Miko and Rafael. The young humans that are under the care of my team.” Optimus introduced them.

“We’re more than that boss bot,” Miko stated with a smile

The chief walked closer to the humans and offered his hand “It’s a pleasure to meet you, kids. I’m Charlie Burns, Chief of the rescue station.” 

Jack took his hand “Jack Darby, and we’ve heard about you, mostly from Raf, but it’s an honour.” He greeted.

Miko was quick towards the Rescue Bots “You guys look awesome!”

“Wait, what did you mean? That you’re ‘more than that’?” Graham asked with a raised brow, a little confused at the girl's statement.

The young Japanese girl only smiled “Just as it sounds graham. We do our share for the bots.” She stated with such a confident tone, that it surprised the Burns family a little, but Optimus, Jack and Raf weren’t; Raf and Optimus just looked at Miko with a fond and amused look while Jack looked like he was ready to kill her or himself.

But then Kade snapped from the audacity of the child and looked at Miko cautiously “wait, how did you know-”

“Well Kade, if you were listening,” Miko said, staring at the red-head with a smirk, finding it funny that Kade was now on guard.

“As funny as it is to see worked up, can you answer the question instead of messing with him?” Heatwave pipped up, causing the humans to stare.

Miko just grinned “Yooo! That’s your actual voice!”

Raf fixed his glasses before he looked up at Heatwave “Well, um...Heatwave?” Raf hesitated, wondering if he remembered the name Optimus had said just the other day.

The fire bot paused, obviously not expecting the human to know his name, before nodding.

“I did some research on the Burns family before we came here.” Raf started as he looked up at the bot “I’ve actually been really interested in coming here for a while, the tech here is amazing! I’ve even wanted to meet Dr.Greene-”

“Oh, we know him!” Cody suddenly pipped up, Raf looked at the blond “Wait really?” He asked, his voice sounding excited, Cody nodded “Yup! I’m actually best friends with his daughter, Frankie. I could actually show you around the island too,” 

Raf felt what he could only describe as an explosion in his chest, fighting the urge to start bouncing on his heels in excitement “Could you?? Can I meet her? Them?” Raf asked, before pausing and looking up at Optimus with an almost nervous look “if that’s okay?”

Optimus thought for a moment before looking at the Chief “If it’s alright with the Chief, I see no reason why you can’t. However, I will leave it up to the chief.” He stated,

Cody looked at the chief, only his look was more expectant with puppy eyes to match, and even though the puppy eyes rarely worked on the old chief anymore, the man still sighed with a smile “Okay, okay. Fine. But maybe you should go with one of the bots.” Charlie said, making it sound like a suggestion but Cody picked - up the hint easily enough.

As did Dani as she motioned to the younger two boys “Come on, Blade’s and I can give you a lift.” 

Rafael grinned, watching Blades transform before joining Dani and Blades.

-

It had been a full day since the humans of Jasper made their way towards Griffen Rock.

Miko had found her place playing video games against Kade and Dani, beating the two of them pretty easily.

Jack decided to stick with the bots, learning what he could about the Rescue Bots and their purpose and overall history.

Raf found himself mixing between the two, joining in when talking to Boulder and Graham about tech, earth and everything great about both.

But when it came to the Rescue Team being called on for missions, Raf mostly found himself hanging out with Cody in the communication room while Jack sat with The Chief and Chase and Miko was with Dani and Blades. 

Surprisingly enough, Miko was a quick learner when it came to medical techniques.

Earlier that day, Raf had watched the screens from over Cody’s shoulder, watching the screens the blond wasn’t looking at.

“Okay team, just like yesterday, watch out for any unusual activity. These emergencies can’t be more than coincidences.”

There was a collected “got it” over the comm before things went quiet.

The Latino simply stood by, being an extra pair of eyes. But a few times, Raf thought he saw familiar purple cars riding throughout the town, but he didn’t say anything, since at a quick glance, it didn’t seem important.

But ever since Optimus spoke to Charlie privately when they had gotten back, Cody and Rafael had actually picked up that there was more to the Prime’s ‘routine visit’ than what he was letting on.

As Raf watched over the screen, once again he noticed the familiar purple shine, his eyes narrowed as Raf took over the controls “Did you see something?” Cody asked curious 

”Is that what I think it is…” Raf muttered as he continued to focus on the screen, not answering the person beside him.

“Well, what is it?” Cody asked confused, watching the screen as the Latino boy froze the footage before zooming into the freezeframe and clearing the pixelated image. His narrowed eyes then widened in realization. 

“It can’t be…” The brunette took a step back from the screen instinctually, a sudden fear rushing through him.

“Raf, what is it?” The young Burns asked, his tone almost pleading as he saw the sudden fear in his friend's face.

 “That’s a vehicon…” he muttered, zooming in further and finding the undeniable Decepticon symbol “The cons are here…” Raf plugged his laptop into the console, quickly downloading the footage of the con.

Cody looked at Raf suddenly “Con’s?” The boy started, watching the other boy work.

“What are Cons?” He asked cautiously, his features and tone filled with worry. 

Raf unplugged his laptop from the charger “Decepticons. The faction that pretty much started the civil war that Optimus and Team Prime are now fighting in Jasper.” He quickly explained, running towards the bunker where the rest of the Burns family, and Team Prime, were.

“War? What war?” Cody called after the Latino. The Rescue Bots hadn’t said much about their home, just that it was no longer inhabitable due to war, but Optimus hadn’t told them much about the war that destroyed their home. The Rescue Bots just assumed the war had ended, it had been the equivalent of thousands of human years, surely it would be over by now…

Right?

[redheadbigshoes]

I am going to translate what someone said here on Tumblr (and link the og post).

Gringos (and we’re talking about especially Americans and Europeans) only like Brazil’s soccer team (and any other Latin American team) when we’re losing. When Brazil was in a bad phase gringos were all like “Brazil deserved better”, “Marta deserves to win something”.

Now that we actually have a chance to win then suddenly we don’t play soccer (like Hermoso said), that we play dirty. The same thing happened with Argentina in the World Cup, so many gringos suddenly had issues with them winning, with a Latino country winning.

They support us when we’re in a bad phase and criticize us when we’re in a good phase.

These gringos don’t want Latin Americans to win. They don’t accept we do play a different kind of soccer than them, and that’s not something bad, it’s just different.

I don’t see the same criticism and hate whenever they lose over any first world country, I wonder why… 🤔

[divinemissem13]

The Heat Is On In LA

2024 Eight Character No True Pair Challenge Fandom: Star Trek Voyager, The Closer Pair: Kathryn Janeway & Brenda Leigh Johnson Word Count: 1,173 Prompt: beating the heat

Kathryn looks down over the boardwalk at the throngs of people walking, skating, biking, and dancing in the hot sun. They don't appear to be bothered by the heat, but then they are all dressed for it. She could kill Tom Paris for picking out this white polyester pant suit. Not only does it seem a bit out of date, but the synthetic fabric is sticking to her in all the wrong places, plastered to her skin by sweat. This is decidedly not the right outfit for a day at the beach in 20th century LA.

No wonder this entire city got swallowed up by the ocean, Kathryn thinks bitterly as she peels the damp strands of her ponytail off of her neck, hoping to at least catch a breeze on what little bare skin she has. No such luck though because in addition to the heat, the air is oppressively stagnant and as an extra bonus, smells faintly of exhaust and burnt rubber.

Kathryn sighs and attempts to sneak another look at her tricorder. It's hard to go unnoticed when she already sticks out like a sore thumb in this stupid suit. Briefly, she wonders if maybe Tom was wrong about this too — if maybe it wouldn't be so odd for her to be looking at a hand held device out in the open — but decides it's better not to chance it as she ducks her head to peek inside her jacket, hoping that she doesn't look too terribly suspicious.

If she has to hear Tau explain the forensic evidence on this case one more time, Brenda is going to scream. They have been sitting in this van for four hours (only four?!?) and they still have another two before Buzz and Gabriel show up to take over. There has been absolutely zero criminal activity, she ran out of candy an hour ago, and she is pretty sure that the air conditioning is malfunctioning.

Brenda doesn't often admit to being wrong, but she really should have listened to Fritz this morning when he said that the team could handle this one without her. It's just that she hadn't really wanted to spend the day with Fritz either, shopping for new sheets or towels or something, so off to the stakeout she went. And now, she's paying for it.

Brenda adjusts her glasses and squints at the screen. She is looking for any excuse to get out of this oven and she finds one. "What's that woman doin' over there?" she asks, pointing to a woman who keeps looking at something inside of her blazer and then looking over her shoulder as if she's being watched (well, she is being watched but that's beside the point).

"I don't know, Chief. But you know, DNA indicated that we are looking for a male latino, so-"

"I'm gonna check it out anyway," Brenda interrupts with a tone that leaves no room for argument. "Looks like she's got a camera. Maybe she got something useful without even realizin' it."

Before Tau can protest again, Brenda is out of the van and squinting into the bright California sun. She probably should have grabbed her sunglasses, but she's not going back now so instead she marches herself over to the woman in the white pants suit (Sharon would be proud because even Brenda can tell that it's out of fashion. Although the suspect does wear it well).

"Excuse me, ma'am, I'm Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson of the LAPD and I was hopin' I might get a look at whatever you've got on that camera." Brenda tries to act casual, despite the fact that she began this conversation by giving her full name and title, but she's never really been good at casual.

It doesn't seem like this woman is too good at casual either because she appears to grow about a foot taller as her face morphs into a no nonsense expression of authority. Her hands go behind her back in what Brenda recognizes as a military stance and she is all at once intimidated and intrigued. Who is this woman?

"Captain Kathryn Janeway of the… of the Bloomington Police Department," Kathryn declares, deflating just a little as she stumbles over the name of her department. She drops her arms to her side and smiles crookedly. "Sorry, reflex. I'm just here for a visit. And I'm afraid I haven't taken any pictures today."

If Kathryn wasn't sweating before, she certainly is now. She's trying to fly under the radar and instead practically gives her full name and serial number to a police officer? And a deputy chief too, which, if she had to guess from the look of pride on the other woman's face definitely outranks a captain in this hierarchy.

She curses Tom again for coming up with this ridiculous outfit, and for leaving her all alone out here. Where the hell is he anyway? They were supposed to be doing a quick perimeter search but it's definitely been more than the agreed upon five minutes.

Kathryn looks back at Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson who was not deterred by Kathryn's lack of photographs and in fact is now squinting at her, as if trying to figure Kathryn out. That really won't do. She needs a distraction.

Kathryn gathers her ponytail again and pulls it over her shoulder, hoping to create at least a small breeze with the motion. When that doesn't work, she begins to fan herself desperately with her hand. "Sure is hot out here!" Kathryn mentally kicks herself. Why is it so easy for her to open diplomatic negotiations with a hostile alien species and yet so difficult for her to make small talk with one single human woman?

Brenda still doesn't know quite what to make of this woman, but she is pretty sure that she doesn't have any sort of involvement in her case. She is definitely intriguing though — far more intriguing than listening to Tau drone on for another two hours. She glances back at the windowless van where she knows Tau is watching, waiting for her to return, and she comes to a decision.

"Well, Captain, from one police officer to another, how 'bout I show you where to get the best ice cream on the boardwalk?"

Kathryn almost says no. She should stay put and wait for the rest of the away team to return. But it is so hot she can barely think straight. And on a day like this, refusing ice cream would certainly be more suspicious than accepting, right? Right.

"Do they have coffee ice cream?" she asks with a grin.

The deputy chief shrugs, "Probably. I always go for the double chocolate chip myself."

"Lead the way!" she declares magnanimously and then she follows without even a glance over her shoulder. She's the captain, after all. If the rest of the team gets back before she does, they can damn well wait for her in the scorching heat.

[minato-division03]

Queen Card’s Thoughts on Aoyama Division

Tomi Chōten

“Tomi Chōten… age: mid-twenties, occupation: unemployed. Current family consists of: a father, a mother, and a younger brother. Subject is prone to splurging his parent’s wealth and wasting his life away with social gatherings.”

She threw the photograph over her shoulder. “There is nothing remotely entertaining about him, nay… his entire lineage’s tale. Discovering a gemstone never seen before, serving as a lowly spokesperson for Chuohku, and a lowly jester that is delusional enough to believe he has garnered my attention. A mere rare gemstone is not enough. It is just not enough.”

“I’ve nothing harmful to say about this subject. Nonetheless, he is just far too boring. Oftentimes, I do find it better to opt out of this man’s invitations to galas and other social gatherings. Such events are really full of individuals that may soon affect me with their stupidity.”

Karada Kessaku

“Ah, yes. Quite infectious, he is. He has an innate gift. An innate gift for lowering the IQ of those around him.”

“Now let us see here… Karada Kessaku, age: mid-twenties, occupation: body builder. No known family members. Subject is prone to…”

She held the photograph closer to her and scanned through it carefully while muttering incoherently to herself. She flung the photograph away from her, lodging it right into the wall across from her. “Dull. So incredibly dull, each and every thing.”

Luis Kōkyū

“Luis Kōkyū, age: late twenties, ethnicity: Japanese and Latino… no, with those features, there’s no doubt about it. Japanese and Mexican. Occupation: chef-owner of a high-end restaurant. More specifically, chef-owner of the restaurant Suriru Manten no Hāto. I would know because my staff were more than pleased to dine at his establishment after a successful show at the Aoyama Cross Theatre. The next time I see his face in person, I shall thank him for giving my employees such a wonderful experience.”

“Alas, I see nothing but a man with a tragically boring tale behind his name. I’ve no interest in conducting any sort of background research on this man, let alone the rest of his team.”

Jet Set Trio

“Quite a shame, really. To think the prosperous district within my precious Minato is being represented by a batch of one-dimensional characters in this tale we call ‘life’. It is aggravating… it is enraging that such monotonous and incapable people can be the face of Aoyama.”

“Irritating as it is, I have never been incorrect in my predictions. These three in particular emerged, just as I had planned. This truly is beginning to get redundant.”

[no-goodbyes-no-regrets]

Undercover (AO3)

This is based on this gifset of Rafa looking beautiful in some other show or film (idk, brain short circuited before I could check out what it actually is).

It's a What if...? of Carlos' secret in 4x01. Instead of the secret marriage, I give you undercover Carlos.

This was meant to be a one shot but it started to get long before anything had even happened... and it's 5.42AM now and I should probably sleep instead of writing this thing... so here is part 1. I'm Very Bad at multi chapter fics but I'll try to finish part 2 tomorrow (Sunday) and see where it goes from there.

---

“Reyes, my office please.” Carlos’ sergeant called out just as he was about to go on his lunch break.

It had been a slow morning, which he was grateful for after the weekend he’d had touring wedding venues with TK, and finding out the perfect place didn’t have an opening for another 18 months.

“Everything alright, sir?”

“Close the door and sit down please.”

Carlos tried to keep the look on his face neutral as he did what he was told, but wondered what on earth his sergeant would call him into his office for.

“How is the wedding planning going?” Sergeant Walsh asked him after he’d sat down.

“Uh… alright… thanks.” Carlos answered, not sure how he knew or where the conversation was going.

“Your father mentioned you and your fiancé looking at venues when I ran into him this weekend.

“Oh. Yes, sir we are. We’ve toured a few.”

Walsh nodded.

“Did you find anything you like? My daughter is a wedding planner, she could help you if you wanted. Put in a good word for you with the venue owners.”

“Thank you sir, but I think we’ll be alright.”

Walsh nodded again.

“Well the offer still stands if you need it.”

“Thank you sir.” Carlos replied. “Was that everything you needed to talk to me about?”

“No, no it is not.” Walsh sat up a little straighter and took a file out of his desk drawer and opened it.

“The FBI are building a case on a nationwide drug trafficking organisation and they’ve reached out to APD for the Austin based part.”

Carlos nodded.

“Do they need tactical support on a raid?”

“Not just yet. They’re still gathering evidence.”

“Ok. Do you need me to help put a team on standby?”

Walsh shook his head.

“Have you ever thought of doing undercover work?”

“Undercover? Me?”

“The FBI need someone to infiltrate the drug trafficking business that’s being run out of a bar downtown. They need someone who knows the city.”

“And that someone is me?”

“If you’re interested. It could be a good career opportunity for you.” Walsh said and turned to the file on his desk. “They’re selling fentanyl and heroin and anything else they can get their hands on. The FBI believes they’re involved in a larger network responsible for drug related deaths all over the country. LA, Chicago, Seattle, New York. It looks like they’re involved with the Honor Dogs too. Have you heard of them?”

“A local biker gang.” Carlos answered. “White supremacists. We’ve arrested some members before… but not recently I believe.”

“That’s right. So getting them off the streets of Austin too would be a nice bonus.”

“Right… Yes, I agree… but… with all due respect, I don’t think I’m going to be of any help in this case.”  

“And why is that?”

“I’m Latino. And gay. Neither of those things are very high on the list of things white supremacists look for in members.”

Walsh smiled.

“No, but the FBI need someone in the bar. They’ve already got someone in with the racists. You’ll just be serving drinks downtown and gathering evidence on the drug charges.”

“Right. So… I’ll be wearing a wire then I guess?”

“I assume so. But if you agree to do this, the FBI will brief you on all details and set you up with a fake identity and backstory.”

Carlos nodded.

“Can I think about it?”

“Sure. Take the afternoon off and let me know first thing tomorrow.”

“Thank you, sir” Carlos said and left the office. He checked his watch. He’d promised his mother he’d meet her for lunch if he had time, but he knew he wouldn’t be able to focus on anything but the conversation he’d just had with his sergeant.

He got into his car and drove across town to the one place he could think of going.

Unfortunately when he pulled up outside station 126 some time later, both rigs and the ambulance were gone.

“Oh hello officer, can I help you?” a firefighter Carlos vaguely knew as the probie from the B shift crew asked him. He gave the young woman a polite smile.

“No, I’m just waiting for them to come back.”

“They’re on their way. They were loading back up about 10 minutes ago. I heard it on the radio. I forgot to put mine away when I left after my shift.” She scrunched up her face. “Please don’t tell captain Strand.”

“Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me.”

Just then they heard the brief burst of sound Carlos recognised as the horn from the rig.

“Looks like they’re here. I better run. Have a good day officer.” The probie said before rushing out of the firehouse.

Sure enough, not two minutes later, Judd parked the rig in the bay and Owen jumped out.

“Hey Carlos.” The other man greeted him. “Medical is right behind us.”

“Thanks Owen.” Carlos said as Owen walked past him and patted his shoulder.

Before any of the other members of the crew could greet him or ask him why he was there, the ambulance pulled into the station and TK jumped out of the passenger’s seat.

“Hey baby, you here for lunch?”

“Actually… can we talk?”

TK frowned but lead him up to the bunk room where they sat down on two beds facing each other.

“What’s going on? Is everything alright?” TK asked and Carlos hated himself a little for worrying him.

“I uh… got offered this thing… at work.”

“Thing? What thing? A promotion?”

“No. Yes. Maybe? I don’t know…”

“You’re not making any sense, babe.”

Carlos pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.

“The FBI have reached out to APD for help on a case involving some drug trafficking network they believe is being run out of this bar downtown.”

“Ok. So you’re going to SWAT up and catch the bad guys?”

“No my sergeant wants me to go undercover to gather evidence.”

“For the FBI?”

“Yes.”

“Working in a bar?”

“Yes.”

“Will it be dangerous?”

“I don’t know… I suppose there’s always a risk… I don’t know the details yet. I haven’t said yes yet.”

TK nodded.

“You want to do it, don’t you?”

“Not if you don’t want me to.”

“It’s drugs these guys are involved in?”

“Yes. Apparently mainly heroin and fentanyl but also anything else they can get their hands on and make money from.”

TK was quiet for a minute while he processed what Carlos had just told him. He moved to sit next to Carlos and grabbed his hand.

“I think you should do it.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. If anyone knows the kind of damage these guys can do it’s me.” He looked down at their joined hands. “Who knows what would have happened to me if my mom hadn’t found me and dragged me to rehab. I knew every low life dealer in the city. They only care about money… not about the lives they ruin.”

Carlos squeezed his hand and let him talk. He knew TK’s addiction was hard for him to talk about. Especially the moments where he’d been at his lowest.

“Tell your sergeant you’ll do it.”

[fante-di-denari]

La Ley y La Trampa Chapter I

Warnings: violence canon, argentinian spanish. mexican spanish, curse words.

MiniTaglist: @bloodonmyhands-1221

COD Masterlist

Fanfic Masterlist

Spanish Version

“Soy lo que me enseñó mi padre El que no quiere a su patria, no quiere a su madre Soy América Latina Un pueblo sin piernas, pero que camina, ¡oye!” -Latinoamérica By Calle 13 ft. Totó la Momposina, Susana Baca, Rita María

–¿Cuánto piensan que tardaran estos ingleses? (Why are these English taking so long?)  Didn't they say that they would arrive before eight? –The woman's head was resting on her crossed arms on the window frame of the black truck, watching Alejandro's broad back.

–They will arrive at any moment, ten paciencia por un momento Belén. (Have patient for a moment Belén) – The colonel had his back turned and she was wearing a mask, but he knew well that she made a face at him before going back inside the truck and rolling up the glass.

–Boludo (Dumbass) –She cursed the man outside the truck before leaning forward, placing her hand, gloved and the knuckles and back rimmed with metal, on Parra's shoulder. –. Rudy, when we go for Hassan, don't try too hard, at the first inconvenience or shortness of breath, tell Vargas or me and we'll cover you ¿Si? – It was more of a request than an order.

–Copiado comandante. (Roger that Commander)

He nodded with a small smile, the woman settled into her seat better, taking off her helmet, putting it on her lap, letting her hair breathe a little while she began to talk about things with Rodolfo, what they were going to do when they got their vacation, their predictions for the World Cup, until the sound of a military plane landing interrupted them. Both Latinos looked towards where Alejandro was and looked at the newcomers for a bit. The woman settled to go to the back of the truck, she would be more comfortable there. At that moment the Mexican and the two new men got to the car, she saw them get in, she knew them from the photos that her brother showed her.

–My second in comand: Sargeant Mayor Rodolfo Parra and she is the Lieutenant Colonel of the Argentine army, people call her Sulpay, She and her team are with us on a drug cartel issue, but she said they were going to help with Hassan. –The woman moved so they could see her, and Soap had a good view of the Santos Vega special forces shield that was embroidered on the woman's left arm, they were the same forces as Pompero, he wondered if they knew each other.

–Le tengo miedo a los fantasmas. – Rodolfo spoke, in a scared tone, looking at the man next to him, he had said it jokingly, both commanders knew that, Alejandro smiled and turned around to look at Soap.

–You know Spanish?

–No. –Belén wanted to laugh for the way he said that, as if he was scared, but she didn’t make them have a bad impression of her, but Ghost already noted her reaction.

–You will.

Rodolfo started the truck's engine and started the trip, the Argentine wanted to turn on the radio, she had made a maneuver to get between them, one hand on the floor of the car and the other with a USB, Soap had been good at grabbing her, from the vest, so she wouldn't fall, but the Mexican stopped her by grabbing her hand, looked at him, trying to understand how he did it.

–Iba a poner tu canción favorita. (I was going to put your favorite song)

–Mentirosa, puedo ver en tu cara que ibas a poner La Mano de Dios1. (Liar, I can see in your face that you were going to put La Mano de Dios) – He turned in the seat, looking into her eyes starting a little staring match, until she released her hold and settled back, thanking the Scots for the help, kneeling while leaning against the rear seats, Alejandro was very stupid if he thought she was going to put La Mano de Dios, she was really going to put Lo Mejor del Amor2.

–Withe truck, four armed in the back. – MacTavish announced, reaching for his rifle, but was quickly stopped by the lieutenant colonel's hand on his shoulder.

–uesah, Calm. – calmed him down as he let go of his shoulder, Alejandro and Rodolfo were surprised that she was being genuinely good, not having good manners simply for being polite.

–Easy, That’s normal here – explains Alejandro, calming him down and turning his gaze to the front–. Guns in the streets is jurisdiction of the police.

–Where are the police? – asked the masked man, curious, he wanted to know more about the situation in Las Almas, to know what he was getting into, this wasn’t in the records

–Bought. – The Argentine answered seriously, one or two months was the time she was in this town, don't take her the wrong way, she appreciated the place, but she preferred to be in her own fields, with her people.

–Las Almas has a very serious problem – He began to explain what the woman said –. There are few here to uphold the law, and many of those who resist corruption.... desappear

–What about the military? – the Scot asked, looking at the colonel and the woman to his side, out of the corner of his eye.

–Well, because we are well trained, soldiers are recruited by the narcos, happens in Argentina and the rest of the continent too

–Why not you? –That question was addressed to the three Latinos, the older British man was curious to know about them, he had not been able to investigate them as much as he would have liked, especially because he didn’t have the presence of the Argentines.

–We grew up here –He and Rodolfo looked at each other for a second, and then they look at the streets again–. They call us “Los Vaqueros” ... Cowboys –He looked towards the sidewalk, they were passing by the church, in the back seats, the Argentine had to fight with all her might not to roll her eyes, she had never liked how Alejandro dragged things out –. We love this place. – He turned his body to look at the Europeans –.  And we will die fighting for it.

The Scot and the Brit looked at the woman between them, waiting for her answer.

–El que no quiere a su patria, no quiere a su madre (The one who does not love their homeland, does not love their mother)– The black-haired woman began to respond, sincere and quoting a part of a song from Calle 13, receiving the looks of both foreigners, Ghost noticed that under the Argentine flag was another, as far as he knew, that was the flag of a province of the country –. You can't ask someone who loves their country to betray it.

–Ye’re form Santos Vega? –se animó a hacer la pregunta que le estaba comiendo el cerebro, quería sacarse la duda, la mayor le miro.

–Sip, after the president and the general, I’m in charge. Why the question?

– Because we work with a commander form there, right Ghost? – The older of the two nodded, also listening to what the woman was saying. He knew a little Spanish, but he always got confused by all the dialects of the countries.

–Ah sí, that must be my little brother – She could no longer pretend that she didn't know them because her brother had told her a thousand and one stories about the 141, since before they were formed –. Pompero is my second in command, he and Price know each other since 2010, good guy, my kids, niece and nephew loves him. –Maybe all the explosions the Scotsman was in made him mishear, had she said children? If he was sincere he would never expect someone who hid their face like his lieutenant would have them, though that would be one reason why she does.

–¿Kids?

–¡Lo sé! I look súper young.

They couldn't tell it was true, they couldn't see her face, but they decided to believe her, Pompero didn't look his age, so if she was older than him, it must be true. Soon they passed a balloon stand, where there was a child with his mother and next to a young man with a weapon, the scot looked amused at the scene

– Kids, guns and balloons... that's a new one. – he turns to see his lieutenant, Riley wasn’t so shocked as MacTavish, but still, he had an odd feeling towards the situation, he never liked when children were involving in a dangerous situation.

– Narcos use generosity to win over people.

–Even the children?

–Especially the children… – At that moment they stopped in front of a cartel scene, Alejandro lowered the glass halfway and the Europeans looked there, the police tapes prevented passersby from stepping on something and compromising the evidence, not that they were worried, but it was protocol.

– What's on those sheets?

–Narco mantas. – replied the woman, looking side eyeing at the scene.

– Cartel cloths. – Rudy translated, looking at them from the rearview mirror, but without really looking at them, more than anything he was looking at Belén.

– Messages from El Sin Nombre. Warmins, making territory –He rolled up the window, signaling to his friend to keep driving –. Our streets are laced with death.

–Who's Sin Nombre?

– El Sin Nombre, The Nameless. The Leader of the Las Almas Cartel.

– Where can we find him?

– You can't. No one knows who he is –A small smile appeared on the covered face of the Argentine, she wanted to contradict the man and rename their bet they had since Sin Nombre had appeared in the scene but she didn't, they passed a mural dedicated to the cartel and El Sin Nombre, she was not surprised that civilians could be bought easily –. But he is everywhere, and this is a challenge –Se miraron por un segundo con Rodolfo y sonrieron –. But Los Vaqueros likes challenges –exclamó lo último con una sonrisa divertida.

– With your mask, you will fit in well here, Ghost. – The black-haired woman could feel how the Scot moved his hand over her neck, announcing that he shouldn't fuck with that and how the brit tensed at her side.

–Rudy, e’toy al lado del grandote, tené piedad de mi (Rudy, I'm next to the big guy, have mercy on me)

–Oye, calmala – He warned his best friend, looking at him, to look ahead, he threw his head back, annoyed, and the woman clicked her tongue –. Checkpoint, it's the army, turn right, we'll go around. – Rodolfo did as order, being followed by the two vehicles that were followed them, in these were some Vaqueros and some of the woman’s unit.

–Why?

–Like we told you, some troops are under the command of Sin Nombre. – answered the woman, tucking her braid under the jacket and closing it, it would avoid an accident or a more broken crotch than she should break.

–Like I told you, he is everywhere – the Mexican ended, upset –. Cartel is hiding Hassan in the village across the river. Let's hope he's still there.

Part of the way that followed them was in silence, the woman felt that her right breast was vibrating, it was her phone, she had forgotten to leave it at the barracks, she was going to turn it off, but she just got a new message from the group she had with her five siblings, she opened it, finding that there were two photos sent by the youngest of them, in one she saw her twin and her older sister being chased by some chickens and in the other one was of her children and her nephew and niece being chased by a cow, his posture became relaxed by seeing it, knowing that they were safe was everything for her. Before turning off his cell phone, he showed the Scottish a photo of his two little angels, whenever he had the opportunity he showed his children, they were his greatest pride. With the Scot I also talk about her nephews, he also talks about his and Scotland, she turned off her cell phone, keeping it in her vest and continue talking with Soap, the both of them had a lot in common.

1: La Mano de Dios is a cuarteto song that was writed by one of the gratest, El Potro Rodrigo, I found a translate version in youtube

2: Lo mejor del amor is also a cuarteto song, writed and singed also By El Potro Rodrigo, I didn't found a translate version in youtube

[laemilucha]

I Like My Town

As soon as I got the project brief, I instamtly knew I wanted to document the Colombian restaurants that reside in Elephant and Castle. These are the same small business’ that my Colombian family and i have frequented since my childhood days. Though there see,s to be a plethora of Colombian establishments in the area, gentrification looms it’s head over the neighbourhood. While gentrification may bring new life and residents, death become her and her scythe slices and cuts the Colombian business’ out of the deal. So off I went to preserve a piece of my home away from home. Just in case it’s time comes.

I spoke to the team at Distri Andina- a shop fit to stock any latino household with its essential groceries. The man in the hat was frying bunelos (cheese dough balls) when I approached him for a picture.

I then convinced the lady to let me take a picture of her too, she laughed and told me her co-workers had to be in it too and thus the legendary photo above was taken.

Colombain snacks in Distri Andina

Below the thameslink trains-a strip of Colombian business’, from beauty supply kiosks to cafes and restaurants.

I can’t say I’m particularly proud of this quick sketch but I do like the composition.

A tunnel with a view into the construction site that used to be Elephant & Castle shopping centre. Latino business’ once had their place here. I remember going to the latina (dominican if i remember correctly) hairdresser with my mum. The hairdressers daughter waited patiently in her school uniform for her mum to finish and go home. I wonder what became of the latinx workers like the hairdresser that had to move their business elsewhere.

Typical Colombian decorations hanging in Lenos y Carbon, a popular Colombian restaurant by the national rail entrance. Balconcitos tipicos as my abuela (grandma) calls them adorned the restaurant walls just like the ones my abuela once had.

[fearsmagazine]

SATANIC HISPANICS - Review

DISTRIBUTOR: Dread

SYNOPSIS: : A police raid on a house in El Paso reveals it is full of dead Latinos, except for one handcuffed survivor. Taking him to the station for questioning, he calls himself The Traveler, and he spins a tale where he claims the lands are full of magic. He talks about the horrors he’s encountered in his long time on this earth, about portals to other worlds, mythical creatures, demons and the undead. Stories that are based in Latin American legends. As they attempt to unravel any truth from his tales that could aid them, The Traveler warns them that time is ticking and they could all be dead soon if they don’t release him.

REVIEW: Filmmakers Mike Mendez and Alejandro Brugues team up with three other Latino filmmakers to deliver the first Latino horror anthology. SATANIC HISPANICS features five tales that reflect a broad spectrum of genre themes, all uniquely Latino. What Robert Rodriguez did for the action genre with “El Mariachi’ and the subsequent sequel “Desperado,” or the early films of Guillermo del Toro did for fantasy/horror films, Mendez and Brugues provide exclusive opportunity for these talent filmmakers, in front of and behind the camera, to bring their work to a wider audience.

All five stories are memorable cinematic experiences. I could dissect each of these tales individually, but that’s for another time. Each is distinctly Latino, either placing their spin on a traditional genre theme or crafting contemporary tales based on Latin myths and legends. Some are skilled dives into the darkest depths of the genre, some are punctuated with moments of dark comedy, others are over the top gory satire in a tradition of “Evil Dead Two.” Like any good genre tale, the stories span themes of social commentary and satire. All five stories are expertly crafted, from the plots to the dialogue, and will elicit a reaction from the viewer that goes from sheer terror to “WTF” as they run the emotional spectrum. The collection strikes a nice balance between Spanish language and English, and I was satisfied with the translation of the subtitles.

From the visual and special effects to the cinematography and editing, SATANIC HISPANICS features impressive production values. There is a similarity to the style of all five that allows them to feel as if they are all part of the same universe. They are adult grim and gory tales of terror that possess subtle individual touches of each filmmaker making for an engaging experience. There are excellent creature designs, my personal favorite is the final reveal of the being in “The Traveler.” Likewise, the music and score, from all the contributors, creates a wholly unforgettable soundtrack. These filmmakers transcend the mastery of their technical craft by capturing riveting performances from their actors.

SATANIC HISPANICS presents a wonderful cast. Efren Ramirez, who plays “The Traveler,” has appeared in numerous tv and film productions, and is probably best known as Pedro in “Napoleon Dynamite.” He delivers a strong, hypnotic performance that draws the viewer in and seamlessly transitions between tales. Hemky Madera is perfect as an aging vampire as he balances comedy and what feels like the drama of a telenovela. Jonah Ray Rodrigues, Christian Rodrigo, and Jacob Vargas are a priceless comedic trio caught up in this absurd horror romp. Each tale has exceptional performances that will linger with the viewer.

I often like to point out how a film based on a novel should inspire the viewer not familiar with the book to seek it out. SATANIC HISPANICS is a rare film where after viewing one should be inspired to seek out the other films of these filmmakers. I thoroughly enjoyed this thrilling scarefest, and would welcome another collection of tales. My only concern would be the frequency of future releases that could diminish the quality of the films and/or the unique viewing experience it presents. Just like the original “Creepshow,” SATANIC HISPANICS has all the qualities to become a horror cult classic.

CAST: Efren Ramirez, Greg Grunberg, Hemky Madera, Jonah Ray Rodrigues, Patricia Velásquez, Jacob Vargas, Ari Gallegos, Demian Salomon, Christian Rodrigo, and Michael C. Williams CREW: “The Traveler” - Director/Editor, Mike Mendez; Screenplay - Alejandro Mendez; Cinematographer, Jan Michael Losada; Visual Effects Supervisor, Jason R Miller. “Tambien Lo Vi” - Director/Screenplay, Demian Rugna; Cinematographer, Mariano Suarez; Editor, Leo Vitullo; Score, Pablo Isola; VFX, Demian Rugna “El Vampiro” - Director/Editor, Eduardo Sanchez; Screenplay, Adam Cesare; Cinematography, Joe Tyler; Score, Michael Weber, Special Effects Supervisor, Paul Brubacher “Nahaules” - Director/Editor, Gigi Saul Guerrero; Screenplay, Shadan Saul & Raynor Shima; Cinematographer, Luke Bramley; Score, Blake Matthew; VFX Supervisor, Freddy Chavez Olmos. “The Hammer of Zanzibar” - Director, Alejandro Brugues; Screenplay, Lino K. Villa; Editor, Mike Mendez; “Hammer of Zanzibar” song by Norman Cabrera Monsters; Score, Kyle Newmaster; SFX Supervisor, Vincent Guastini; Visual FX Supervisor, Jason R. Miller Producers - Patrick Ewald, Mike Mendez, & Alejandro Brugués; Post Production Supervisor - Joe Hui; VFX Supervisor - Jason R. Miller; Music Supervisor - Sean Fernald. OFFICIAL: satanichispanicsfilm.com FACEBOOK: N.A. TWITTER: twitter.com/satanichisfilm TRAILER: SATANIC HISPANICS | Trailer RELEASE DATE: In Theaters September 14th, 2023

**Until we can all head back into the theaters our “COVID Reel Value” will be similar to how you rate a film on digital platforms - 👍 (Like), 👌 (It’s just okay), or 👎 (Dislike)

Reviewed by Joseph B Mauceri

[peralta-guaranteed]

One of my favorite things to imagine and think about is how Rosa and Jake met. Like here is this doofus looking white boy, and this badass scary Latina (who is honestly probs nervous for the academy). Rosa gets worried when he starts talking to her but he just talks about die hard and sour candy the whole time???? Is not racist or sexist??? Or hitting on her??? And she is,,,,, confused?? Like who is this straight white boy and why is he not being a dick?

Rosa canonly said it took her a couple of weeks to like him so I’m just imaging those weeks of her realizing she has this friend who is amazing and it warms my heart every time. I need more fics from Rosa’s POV of them meeting

Day 1 - everyone here sucks. As expected. At least it'll be over in 6 months and I can get to actual work. Day 2 - we were separated in groups and would you believe it, my whole group is nothing but white dudes, how wonderful. They already made 4 jokes about 'those latinos'. Day 3 - One of the dudes picked a fight with the latino jokers. Might not be the worst apple of the bunch. Day 4 - IS HE EVER GONNA SHUT UP Day 5 - he does not shut up Day 6-7 - weekend and peace, no noise. Definitely don't miss the constant background chatter about stupid things. Day 8 - Made the mistake of asking him how his weekend was. 3 hour chatter. Day 9 - he brought in donuts and offered me one, no thanks. Not gonna go down that flirting route. "They're for everyone" okay but he offered none to the others and ate them all himself. Day 10 - Donut holes this time. I ate one. Is this what you call someone's face "lighting up"? Gross. Day 11 - whole box of donut holes for him, whole box of donut holes for me. Wanted to throw them in his face telling him not to try any shit with me, I can see the random flirt / guilttrip coming. He turned it into a fucking game instead. Day 12 - I can't believe he caught that donuthole from seven rows down, actually impressive. Day 13-14 - weekend and peace again. Did not consider ordering donut holes during brunch. Day 15 - brought my own donut holes so there wouldn't be any misunderstandings about who owes who. He managed a double-wall-hit catch. Biggest grin after my thumbs up, that was probably a mistake. Day 16 - off-track training. He ate face 15 minutes in. Only helped him up so our team time wouldn't suffer. Did earn me good help during the next obstacle course. And a high five, which I refused. Day 17 - he did the off-track training without fail, he deserves that high five. Day 18 - apparently he's a huggy drunk. And even chattier. Not good. Note: watch out for his dad during graduation. Bring knife. Day 19 - he came in with a black eye and wouldn't explain. Finally did when I twisted his arm just right. Latino jokers took it too far yesterday. Note: do not leave bars before him. Day 20-21: weekend is too quiet. Does he have an icepack for his eye? Gonna text him to buy frozen peas. He definitely does not have vegetables anywhere in his place. Day 22: His eye looks better. Asked if I needed any peas for dinner. Day 23: One of the latino jokers is out of the class. Teach wouldn't explain why. Got a clear wink from his black eye, though. Does that mean I owe him now? Day 24: patrol training. Thought his chatter was bad? Try his radio singing. Day 25: patrol training again. Apparently we were meant to pick partners and switch around. Was not notified of that when he handed me our assignment. It's fine though. Day 26: patrol training. Fuck, can he run, though. Chased that decoy perp for 12 blocks, I recon. Then texted me he got lost. Day 27-28: weekend. Text for drinks. Did not leave bar before him because I had to bring him home. His place is horrible. Fixed the broken oven so now he can have 'the best frozen pizza in the world' again. Day 29: His mom called during lunch break. Adorable how his voice changes. But shit, he talked about this 'cool friend' he made. Day 30: mom called me, asked how I was doing. Seemed very happy I mentioned a new friend. Day 31: there was only one orange soda left at the bodega for lunch break. That and donut holes got me a hug. Feels weird. But good.

[whateven-is-my-aesthetic]

Writing a Latine character

Here’s a little PSA for people who would like to write a Latine/ Latinx/ Latina/ Latino character in their stories and want to be a decent writer.

The great thing about writing is that you can make whatever you want, come to life. You can create characters and plot points and twists and all that good stuff. 

You can also chose to not be a fucking racist piece of shit. 

Recently there was a book written by a white woman called Drive which involved a lot of racist tropes, jokes, and stereotypes that deal with a Mexican girl. I feel like this should be talked about. 

The writer issued a bullshit apology on IG but she turned off the comments so here the fuck we are. The examples listed are from said book as well. 

If you don’t know how to write ethnicities that are not your own make sure you  get a sensitivity reader to help you, or just don’t write them. However, this author had a “Mexican friend” who informed the general public that the author had lost her v*iginity to a person with a Hispanic sounding last name... yeah idk. And that she had lots of Hispanic people on her team because she is color blind, but “not in a bad way”. So idk get someone that doesn’t know you and is confined to a very racist state, again she’s from TEXAS. 

However if you would like to make your list of characters more diverse without being a racist these are somethings you can avoid doing. 

Don’t add r*cist jokes (that should go without saying, but here the fuck we are). Or unnecessary race jokes even if they are being said by your Latine characters. You aren’t us, so leave these things out of your writing.  

For example: 

Immigration jokes, specifically border patrol jokes. (Below is a screen shot from the book I mentioned)

Internalized racism “She doesn’t speak Spanish because she thinks she sounds stupid. She hasn’t used the lounge enough, and she doesn’t like being half a b*aner.” (This was written by a White Texan woman in 2017. I wonder what was happening at the time that made a lot of Mexican and Latine people the target of xenophobia and racism). 

Inquisition jokes: “’No, it’s the Latina Inquisition,’ he said with a twist of his lips.”

Colonization jokes

Fetishization “’There’s the cocky little Latina I know and love,’” 

Tropes

The spicy latine (angry/ loud/ jealous):“’You’re so rough around the edges, my little Latina.” And “’Yeah, well, you were getting a little fucking feisty back there, Stella.’ I laughed. ‘You don’t like it when I show my Latina.” WHAT THE FUCK!!!

The maid 

The self hating brown girl: “And every dark girl want to know what it’s like to be a light girl at some point in their life.”

The dancer: “’Come on, woman, you’re half Mexican. You were born with rhythm.’” “’I’m Latina,’” I corrected “’And I have rhythm. Shut up.’”

Certain mentions of one’s ethnicity where there shouldn’t be

“’GO!’” I screamed at the top of my Latina lungs...” (Ah yes to show that she thought we are very loud.)

“‘How about you kiss my Latina ass.’“

“Paige, I’m fine,’ I said, trying to keep the angry, tequila-filled Latina at bay.’“ (Because we are always pissed off and prideful) 

DON’T USE SLURS, even if you have heard people use them with each other, You aren’t us so stop. If you don’t know if a word you are using is a slur, look it up, thankfully Google is free, or don’t use that word you are unsure of. No one should have to remind you not to be a piece of shit.

Avoid racist situations towards your characters in your books especially if you are writing in a fantasy setting. Most readers like to escape to a different reality, why the fuck are you making them take these things with them as they read your book. 

Just because you saw some racist shit go down from one Latine to another, DON’T WRITE IT IN! FFS

If you are a latinx/e person who has experienced these things and your main character is also Latinx/e that is fine because it deals with YOUR experiences, everyone else stfu. 

And if any of you feel some kind of way about this post, figure out why and change that shit because what the fuck?

- Sincerely a Mexican- American woman that shouldn’t need to be writing this. 

[namorslutfanfiction]

Didn't have any time to write today.

But I had a thought.

Tenoch being your acting mentor. Like this time around you're the new one to this cast and you aren't fluent in Spanish. Its a primarily Latino show with some American actors. (Think Narcos Mexico)

Tenoch feels for you since he knows what it's like being the one struggling to talk and keep lines straight. So he goes out of his way to practice with you and encourage you.

Most of your scenes are with him, and you get more confident because of his support. People start joking that he's adopted you but he makes it a point to remind them you're very much a beautiful grown woman and he couldn't leave you to drown. So then you're his new muse according to his team and Tenoch doesn't mind that.

You get so comfortable with him that you go to him for advice on fight scenes, acting practice, how to talk to press, general pronunciation. Tenoch is more than willing to help. He also loves to tease you every time you get your Spanish wrong.

When filming wraps, the two of you are paired for the press junket. The chemistry is palpable to everyone and you gush about Tenoch and how helpful he was.

Tenoch equally gushes about your hard work and how you found your identity as an actor. The rumors start flying about you two being involved.

Tenoch, being private, doesn't mind letting the rumors fly and eventually die off. But you start getting hate from his fans because you're younger and so new to the industry. Undeserving.

You start putting space between you and Tenoch. You sign on to a new project that has you working in South Asia for a year and don't tell Tenoch. He learns from others where you went and they wonder why he doesn't know.

Tenoch is hurt that you didn't tell him and thinks you must not want to be around him anymore. He tries to call you but decides against it.

The rumors die down completely when news gets out you are dating your new co-star in Asia. Tenoch gets sad and jealous but tries to accept that if you had wanted to stay close to him you wouldn't have left without telling him.

You run into each other at an award show. Tenoch asks where your date is and it's your mom. He asks about your co-star and you tell him it was a publicity stunt and you were never dating.

You apologize and say that the rumors scared you because you were so new and since Tenoch didn't try to set the record straight before you ran away. Tenoch apologizes for not protecting you and says he misses you.

Then his date shows up, kisses him on the red carpet and the paparazzi go crazy. You are the one hurting now and leave Tenoch with his new girlfriend.

Tenoch wins the award and thanks you specifically.

...

I could write this. It would be so angsty

[doobnnoob-tf2]

HI AGAIN! this is just some random scenario that came across my head, and i thought it'd be better in your hands anyways :)

mercs babysitting? like, a young kid or a toddler is left under their care, how would they act on it? i'm aware Spy canonically made a child kill a grown ass man and it cracked me up, so I can't help wondering about the rest.

(also, as a latino, mexican Pyro is best Pyro ❤️) –🎻

Scout: he falls perfectly into that role of fun older brother figure.  he takes the kid out and teaches him how to play ball.  however, as most older siblings do, the moment the kid needs something, he pawns them off onto someone else

Soldier: he.. does surprisingly well!  granted, no one ever truly leaves them alone together out of fear.  but he manages to entertain the kid easily

Pyro: they love kids and hang around Engineer and Heavy the whole time those two are watching the kid.  the only reason why they’re never left alone is because Pyro keeps trying to show the kid their lighter collection.  but they’re content to sit on the floor and watch cartoons with them

Demoman: he does fine, he’s very good at bedtime where he can tell stories about mythical creatures until the kid falls asleep.  he lends a hand through the day when the others are busy but for the most part they’d call on him when it’s time for the kid to go to sleep

Heavy: he winds up being the primary babysitter because he doesn’t trust any of the others in the long run to watch a child for an extended period of time.  but also as soon as the parent comes back, they’re gonna get the scolding of a lifetime because what were they THINKING

Engineer: he helps Heavy and the two of them take turns for the most part keeping up with the kid.  he even manages to quickly make a toy in his workshop to give to the kid to play with

Medic: he’s immediately banned from being alone with the kid after making a comment about not having ever experimented on a child before.  he deems everyone no fun and says he would just do something to make sure the kid doesn’t get hurt while on the base, but no one budges on their decision

Sniper: he does not have enough people skills to watch a kid.  his first real group of friends was the team, he doesn’t need normal people skills to hang out with them.  he also has no filter a lot of the time and doesn’t watch what he says.  it doesn’t take long before someone realizes no one’s seen him in a while, and that his camper is even missing.  he at least leaves a note saying he’ll be back in a couple days and wishes them luck

Spy: his fatherly instinct kicks into overdrive and he’s just stressed.  he hovers, he constantly checks in, he rarely leaves the room the kid is in because he doesn’t trust anyone on this base to properly look after a child despite not actually knowing how to himself.  Heavy and Engineer do a good enough job, and the only reason why they don’t leave Spy to it is because they can see how anxious he is over it.  at some point, Spy’s gonna be asleep with the kid on a chair and everyone just leaves them there

[cloudcuriogames]

Greetings, traveler!

art by @mapcrow

Welcome to the Cloud Curio, your destination for wondrous items of all kinds!

Step right up to my humble shop, and don’t mind the cloud sprites, they’re perfectly harmless. What can I get for you today, my friend? I have all manner of wonders great and small on offer.

Look here, a bestselling novel that happens to be written by a future version of you. And here we have a Scroll of Concretizing, very useful for combating ethereal beasts or abstract ideas. Where did I leave the Origami City? A sprite folded it up into a secret drawer no doubt. Or perhaps you’re seeking a greater challenge? I happen to have a sale on this Rose Garden Sphinx, quite fresh. Ha! Very good!

An explorer such as yourself must always be in the market for a dream. Everything in my store is ready-to-use in any quest you might find yourself on, though I do include special instructions with each product on how to use it should you encounter a Dungeon or a Dragon, one can’t be too careful you know.

Not to worry, my friend! I’m sure my wagon and I will find our way here again soon…

Cloud Curio is a TTRPG publishing company focusing on the whimsical, wondrous, and weird. Amber Seger and Kenny Webb began conceptualizing this project in December 2021 and what started as a small personal endeavor began to quickly evolve into something much larger.

As they planned, they realized they lacked certain sets of skills and also…starting a company with two people ain’t easy! Thankfully they were able to recruit two amazingly talented and wonderful people, Sally Tamarkin and Kyle Latino. With those additions to the team, the Cloud Curio Crew was fully formed!

So what is Cloud Curio producing? You can look forward to a Table Top Babble podcast interview of the Cloud Curio Crew and long-form biography blog posts of the Crew!

Cloud Curio releases content every other week. Much of our content will be small releases. They can be any one of the following types (as of now):

Item

Monster

NPC

Plot Hook

Spell

Weapon

All of our releases are designed to be system neutral with optional ready-to-use D&D 5e rules.

Accessibility, usability, inclusion, and diversity are also built into our overall design ethos. This means all of our art will have alt-text, we will have printer-friendly options, the graphic design is built on user-experience principles, and as we grow and fill the Cloud Curio, we will strive to be a place that brings different voices and perspectives to the TTRPG industry.

Sign up for our newsletter, the Cloud Courier, to stay current with updates and new releases!

[hournites]

“i’m watching you date all these other people and i don't know what it is i'm feeling but it's definitely not jealousy” for hournite!

Beth sets a flyer on the cafeteria table at school. It’s bright and glossy with red hearts and bold cursive letters. Courtney and Yolanda peer over it immediately, blocking out Rick’s view.

“Oooooooh!” says Court.

“What’s that?” he asks, sticking his spoon in his mouth.

Beth bounces excitedly on her toes. “The girls soccer team is hosting a speed dating event to raise money for their next jamboree! You pay 10 dollars for ten dates. It looks like fun, right? I’m gonna go!”

“Oh.” Rick swallows his yoghurt. It goes down hard. “Cool.”

“You should sign up too!” She slides the flyer over to him as she unpacks her lunch.

Rick eyes the event warily. “I think I’m good.”

She shrugs, unperturbed.

“That sounds like a great way to meet people,” Courtney encourages. She grins at Yolanda. “If we weren’t already dating we’d totally go with you.”

“Yeah, we can do your makeup, go shopping…” Yolanda gives Rick a light shoulder check.“Get a man’s opinion on your outfit.”

“Why me?” Rick asks defensively.

“Because you’re her best friend?” Yolanda rebuttals with a frown.

Rick turns to look at Beth. “You never said anything about wanting to date.”

Beth takes a sip of juice. “It’s not like, a pressing need to get a boyfriend, but if it’s for a good cause!”

“She loves talking to people, it’s literally right up her alley,” says Court.

So the girls take Beth shopping and to the only black hair salon in Blue Valley. They get their nails done and talk nonstop about the speed dating event for a week and a half, grating on Rick’s nerves.

“You should sign up,” Beth insists again a few days later as they settle into their desks in class. She’s aware always bringing it up has gotten boring for him as of lately. She hasn’t had much free time to spend with him, spending her afternoons guessing who else made sign-up profiles and being overall excited.

Rick shakes his head. “It’s not for me, but I’ll come watch if you want me to.”

Beth lights up and passes over a spare pencil to replace the stub of one Rick has been using. “That would be great! Thanks Rick.”

On the day of the event, the gym transforms into a succession of interview booths. As soon as the bell rings to let school out for the day, Beth rushes to the bathroom to slip on her dress and new earrings. The dress isn’t very fancy, but it’s pretty with ruffles and flairs out at her waist, accentuating her hips. Yolanda helps with her makeup, giving her a smokey eye. Rick lingers on her new look, unused to seeing powder on her face or eyeliner behind those round glasses.

“Do you really think she’s going to find a boyfriend from this?” he asks Courtney as they lean against the gym wall as spectators. There’s about fifty or so students of each gender here, a lot more than Rick ever expected. Every fifteen minutes the soccer team captain blows her whistle and people move to the left. There’s three smaller queues for matching gay couples closer to the gym office.

“I don’t see why not,” Courtney replies. “Beth is really smart and really pretty. She’s a lot more confident too since meeting Dr. McNider. Any guy would be crazy not to like her if they give her an honest chance.”

Yeah, Rick thinks as his gut sinks for some reason. All of that was true.

“But do you think she’s ready to date?” he finds himself arguing. The guy talking to her now is latino with bangs sweeping over his thick frames. Rick squints at his nerdy checkered shirt and suspenders, wondering if Beth would think if they’re fashionable or lame.

The bell rings and he doesn’t see her slip him a piece of paper with her number. He settles back against the wall with a sigh of relief. Yolanda glances at Rick.

“That’s not for you to decide.”

The next guy is blond and attractive with white teeth so blinding Rick isn’t sure it’s natural. Beth giggles as soon as he sits down, leaning forward with a handshake. Rick frowns. “Whatever.”

“Wait. Is this bothering you?” she prods. “Is watching Beth date other people making you upset?”

Rick uncrosses his arms and recrosses them. “No.”

“…Okay,” she replies. “Because that’s exactly how I sounded when Court was dating Cameron.”

Courtney kisses her cheek to shut her up.

Rick mulls that over as he watched blond guy and Beth chat it up. That doesn’t make sense. Yolanda wasn’t just unimpressed at Cameron like he was for being so naive about his evil family, she was actually jealous of him for grabbing Courtney attention. Rick wasn’t jealous of these guys talking to Beth. That would mean he likes her. Rick isn’t into Beth like that, right?

His stomach twists again when she plucks one of the notes from her basket with her phone number, shyly sliding it over.

Right?

Beth asked Rick to sign up multiple times. Why did she do that? Did she want him to be in that queue to spend ten minutes with her? That doesn’t make any sense. They’re best friends. If she wanted one of their many dinners and milkshake lunches at the diner to be a real date, she would’ve just told him. Why go through all this trouble?

“Rick?” Courtney nudges him out of his thoughts.

“What?” he snaps.

“The event is over.”

He blinks, shaking his head when he realizes the soccer team is folding tables and Beth is still talking to that blond guy from several dates ago. She gives him a quick hug then skips over and proudly shows off her phone.

“Five dates!”

“Five?” says Rick. “I thought it was just one.” He nodded over at blond guy.

“Oh, Shawn?” She wrinkles her nose as if all the flirting Rick just watches didn’t matter much to her. “He’s just very friendly. I’m not sure if we’d make a good match, but he’s definitely good looking.”

Yolanda laughs at the way Rick nearly chokes on his own spit.

Beth thumbs one of her earrings and reigns in her enthusiasm to take in Rick’s uncomfortable demeanour. “Are you okay?”

He forces a smile, wrapping an arm around her as they walk out the gym, ignoring Courtney and Yolanda’s pointed looks. “Yeah. I’m happy for you,” he tells her. He shoots a glare at Yolanda behind them, daring her to say anything. He is happy for Beth. Seeing her happy makes Rick happy. That has always been the case. It doesn’t have to be weird and being concerned with who Beth chooses to date doesn’t mean he’s struggling with jealousy, he’s just protective because he cares. Besides, she’s not with other people, nestled easily into his side right now as they walk out the school. She’s with him. Rick looks down at her and squashes down the nervous feeling in his gut. “Thanks for coming to support me,” she says. “I know this wasn’t really your scene.”

“It’s for a good cause.” And to make her smile wider, he adds. “I like your dress. Tell me about the five guys.”