#I’d like to get off the struggle bus now

[disfordavelifts]

This was all the time I had for today. Something is better than nothing I guess. Both squat racks were occupied, one of which was used for shoulder presses and curls. I ended up having to use the spare rack that’s at the other end of the gym, with the uneven floor 😑

[bandgie]

hiiii is ok if i request a stoner smut😭 ( with either han,chan or felix) like y/n and him are smoke buddies and in one of the sessions things get a little hot and heavy 🥲

it’s ok if ur uncomfortable but if you’re not i’d love to see it

-anon 🍃

a/n: yes?!? oh my god?? why give me 3 options when I can do them all?? at the same time??

synopsis: You warned your smoking buddies that you get a little...different when you're really high. They don't believe you though, and smoke you out anyway. Neither of you can decide if it was worst mistake or best decision of your lives.

warnings: MDNI 18+, heavily under the influence, 4some, brief pussy play, no protection, cumming inside, pussy eating, mxm themes!!!, squirting, double penetration, blow job (m!&f!), multiple orgasms (f!), I went crazy with this one I ain't gonna lie

2.6k words

"Oh dude she's gone."

"You shouldn't have smoked her out man."

"She wanted me to!"

You can distantly hear the three of them arguing. Han is, once again, thrown under the bus as Felix and Chris blame him. To be fair, everyone's high out of their mind. Whatever Felix bought back from California hits.

Han is warm as you snuggle against him, his heartbeat irregular as he keeps defending himself. When you told them you get a little excited when you're super high, they thought you'd be bouncing off the walls. Instead, they had to keep you from clawing Han's cock out to bounce on that.

"I'm not even that high," you speak up for yourself. "I just want a little fun, that's all."

Chan scoffs, bloodshot eyes looking at your droopy ones. "You are that high, actually. The sober you that I know would punch Han before he even thought about touching you."

The image of slapping the man you're sitting on makes you laugh hysterically. You're gasping for air, clutching at your chest as you cackle. Your exaggerated laughter makes Felix chuckle, and it doesn't take long until all four of you are on the verge of throwing up from giggling. 

"But I like the way he feels," you manage to speak after your chest heaves. "Hannie's so soft and warm, it feels so good." It's not smart of you to talk like that when Han's cock is underneath your ass. You can feel like twitching in response. 

You softly grind your ass against it, humming. "You like it too, huh Hannie? Do you want to touch me?"

"Hey. That's enough," Chan's voice is stern, but you don't miss how his eyes drop to your bare thighs. Han freezes under you, scared that moving might make his cock hard. 

You roll your eyes and grind against Han again, hearing him hiss. "For fucks' sake Chan, I'm high, not drunk." There's not a care for the aftermath in your head. It feels as though there'll be no repercussions, that time has frozen still for you. For this moment. 

Still, Chan shakes his head. "Doesn't matter, you're not in the right mind."

"If you don't wanna fuck me Chan, Hannie will." You turn your attention back to Han, who's struggling under you. He's hard now, but his hands stay placed on the cushions. "You'll play with me, right Han?"

His eyes dart from yours to Chan's, unsure. "I dunno. What if you get mad at me in the morning?" You coo at his uncertainty. Reaching for his hands, you place them on your hips. His fingers dig into your soft flesh, pulling you closer to him. 

"I would never be mad at you," you promise. "Just touch me."

That’s enough permission for Han. He parts your thighs while Felix and Chris are front-row viewers. Getting high was just an excuse, you've always wanted him to touch you. For all of them to touch you. It's why you didn't wear any shorts under your skirt. A black thong barely covers your cunt, and Han is quick to play with it. 

His fingers slip behind the material, finding your clit easily. He gently rubs you in circles, moaning in your ear. Han slips his hand out and places it over your underwear, rubbing that instead. 

It makes you whine, bucking your hips in protest. You're about to complain when you catch the other two boys staring. Felix is on the edge of his seat, staring at where Han touches you. Chan is the opposite, crossing his arms over his chest as he leans back in his seat. He looks irritated but there's dark arousal in his eyes. 

You let Han make a show of you, getting you to drip down your ass. 

"Fuck," you hear Felix swear. His voice sounds deeper if that was even possible. His lips are wet from how constantly he's licking them, but he makes no move towards you.

Han pinches your clit. The sudden grasp makes you whine, hips lifting in the air before he forces you back on his lap.

"I don't have a condom," he whispers in your ear. You shake your head aggressively, "I don't care. Put it in."

Chan opens his mouth to say something but snaps it shut. His jaw clenches as he watches Han slips his hand between the two of you, releasing his throbbing cock. He doesn't want to hear you complain in the morning about this, it's your fault. 

Han pulls your panties to the side and slides his cock against your folds. You arch your back into him, moaning. You look down to watch his dick collect your juices, lewdly making noise. Then he angles his cock down, catching your entrance.

You have to slightly lift your hips when his tip goes in. The stretch is far from painful, and it feels like you're on cloud nine. You slam your hips down on Han impatiently. He whines behind you, body shaking and his arms wrap around your waist.

It's a struggle to keep your legs open for the other men to see, but you hook them over Han's legs for support. Han starts slow, unused to the feel of your cunt. He groans in your neck, biting your skin. "Fuck, that's good pussy."

You only hum in response as you feel Han fuck into you harder. It sends overwhelming shocks of pleasure throughout your body. Your mind grows hazy, vision blurring. You've touched yourself while high, and that alone was a trip. To have someone bury themselves deep inside you, to feel their hot dick slip in and out of you, it feels like you're at a constant high. 

Felix is the first to break. He stands to his feet quickly and takes long strides toward you. Han slows his thrusts, unsure if Felix wants a turn with you already. He grips you a little tighter, possessively. 

Both of you are shocked to see him fall to his knees in front of your pussy. He pushes the thong further out of the way with his thumb, looking up at you. 

"Can I?"

You're nodding before he even finishes, "Fuck yes." 

You cum at the feel of Felix's plush lips. Your walls clench and grip Han's cock tightly, making him thrust into you deep. Felix has to keep his hands on your thighs to keep you still. It's obvious you came with the high-pitched moans and convulsing body, but neither of them made a move to stop. 

"Shit, I can feel her creaming on my cock. Fuck, Felix lick me too," Han rasps out. 

Felix is quick to comply. You feel his tongue dip past your pussy presumably only onto the few inches of Han's cock that isn't in your pussy. Han trembles behind you, hips stuttering into yours. Felix reaches back up to your clit, running his lips over your nub before he lightly sucks. 

You don't have much energy to grind on his pretty face, so you lay there pliant as Han fucks into you earnestly and as Felix gently eats you out. You bury your hands into Felix's green hair, desperate to grip onto something.

The hot sensation builds in your stomach again, this time much more intensely. Han can feel the clenching of your walls, the added wetness your pussy drools out. The pressure in your tummy feels different, hotter, and unstable.

"Felix!" You cry out. "I'm gonna cum again! Fuck, I think I'm gonna squirt!"

You think he might back away, but he buries his face deeper, sucks a little harder. "Give it to me baby, I want it all over my face."

The force of your second orgasm makes Han's cock slip out. Felix's face and Han's thighs are victims of your release. You coat them sheer with your orgasm, watching how Felix keeps his mouth open to drink your release. 

He gulps down the remaining spurts of your pussy, a smile on his face. "Yeah, Han. That's good pussy alright." Felix stands, looking down at your wrecked state. He bends down and kisses you roughly, making sure you can taste yourself on his lips. Then he moves behind you to kiss Han who already has his tongue out. Both of them moan in the kiss, making your pussy throb even more. 

Felix unbuckles his belt and pushes his pants just down enough to reach for his cock. You drool at the sight, moaning softly. He pumps himself a few times, then taps his tip on your swollen clit. 

"Think you can handle two at a time baby?"

Before you can even think to answer, Han butts in. "You should be asking me that. I don't think I'll last much longer." The two of them laugh, and then Felix looks back at you. "Can you?"

Biting your bottom lip, you nod. "Yeah, just go slow." Han and Felix nod in unison, "Of course baby." 

The two of them angle their cocks into your slightly gaping entrance. Han pushes the tip of his cock in first. Felix follows quickly after, pressing his tip against Han's. You let your head fall back between Han's neck and shoulder, relaxing your body. It's quite easy since you are already elated, but there's still a painful stretch as they slide in.

You hiss when they stretch you out, their cocks halfway in. Han tightens his grip on your waist and pecks your forehead. Felix soothingly runs his hands against your thighs and kisses your exposed neck. "Doing so good, you're almost there."

Their comforting touches encourage you to try harder. They sink further in and you gasp. 

"Chan," Han calls his hyung who's been overly silent throughout the whole thing. You almost forgot he was there. 

"What?"

"Think our baby needs a bit of help. Come on."

Chan shouldn't help. He told you many times this was a bad idea, but no one listened. Still, watching your teary eyes get to him. The way your face contorts from discomfort. You looked so pretty cumming over Han's cock, he can't imagine what'd it be like to cream over both. 

He finds himself standing and walking over to you three, standing beside Felix. 

"Mate, you need to Han bottom out first. Here." Chan hands one hand on Felix's waist while the other guides your stomach downwards. Han moves his hips up, slowly filling your walls. You squeal and tremble, but it's bearable. 

"There you go," Chris coos. "Make sure you go deep Han. Felix needs as much room as he can get."

Han obeys his friend, making sure to bury himself to the hilt. You feel him push past what you thought was possible. Your legs threaten to snap shut, but Felix's iron grip keeps them open. Han can feel how tight your pussy is, how good it feels to rub against Felix's cock.

Chan taps the green-haired on the waist, "You're good to go."

"Oh," your eyes roll back to your head. Your lips spread deliciously when Felix pushes the remaining inches in. You can feel how your clit slightly rubs against his girth, making extra warmth flow out of you.

Your reactions make Chan chuckle, smiling for the first time in what seems like hours. "Feels good huh? Taught him well." He playfully slaps Felix on the ass. 

The two of them feel heavenly in your walls. All three of you are a moaning mess, content with staying still. It's not until Chris clears his throat that Han begins to move. Shallow thrusts into your pussy that make the trio whimper.

Felix moves with longer strokes. They don't match each other's thrusts, but the speed is the same. One goes in while the other goes out, then sometimes it's at the same time, then it's everything in between. Your walls loosen after a few testing strokes, and they're fucking into you roughly in no time.

Chan tucks a strand of hair behind your ear, getting a good view of your face. It's then that you notice his hard-on, how painful it must be in his jeans. Wordlessly, you open your mouth, tongue lolling out. Chan laughs at your directness, "You sure?"

You respond by using your weak fingers to unzip him, "Yesssss."

He laughs again and helps you undress him. His cock is the biggest of the three, in girth and length. You're thankful he isn't in you, there's no way you could've handled it. Chan taps the head of his cock on your lips, smearing his pre-cum. 

Then he pushes in gently, not to disrupt the boys using you. He's hot and heavy on your tongue, slightly salty. Truthfully, getting as high as you did always leaves you with a dry mouth. You find it difficult to provide enough spit for Chan's cock.

He doesn't complain though, and never pushes you past your limit. Chan uses his hands to jerk what you can't fit in your mouth. You want to protest and say you can do it yourself, but with how good Felix and Han are fucking you, it seems impossible. 

Han's cock twitches inside you, a warning for his orgasm. "I'm gonna cum. Fuck baby I'm gonna cum in you." 

You hum around Chris's cock in response, and soon enough you're filled with Han's cum. It's warm in your stomach and you feel it pool onto the sofa. Felix moans at the extra lubrication, finding it hot to see him fuck the cum out of you. 

Han's cock stays inside of you. He likes to think Felix and you help ride out his high. He turns his head to watch you suck off Chan, groaning. Han opens his mouth and sticks his tongue out, looking up at Chan expectedly. 

The eagerness in Han's eyes has the older man raising an eyebrow, but he indulges nonetheless. Chan slips his cock from your mouth and places it on Han's tongue. 

Han is in a better condition to suck. He even does the honor of spitting on Chan's dick. He licks and takes his cock almost to the hilt before gagging. The sight makes Chan moan, and he puts his dick back in your mouth. Your lips are much softer and your mouth is hotter. Han's is wetter though, and much more usable. Chan settles for using both of your throats.

You're thankful for Han helping, it's hard to focus with Felix still pounding away. His fingers are for sure going to leave a bruise, and your pussy may not be the same after this. With your warm pussy and Han's cock, Felix can feel his balls tighten and how his hips lose their momentum.

He doesn't warm you when he cums. There's just his deep, consecutive moans as Felix fills you to the brim. Your legs tremble, and you're cumming before you're aware of it. Chan has to use Han's mouth more often as you moan and whimper through your orgasm. 

Felix rides his high out when Chan forces your head to face his cock. He jerks himself quickly, tapping his tip on both your and Han's tongues. Chan cums on both of your faces, hot spurts landing on your cheek and lips. 

Your tongue pokes out to get a taste, moaning. 

Felix finally pulls out, making you whine. Han follows suit, letting his soft cock leave you empty. Chan lets you give his cock extra kisses while Han unwraps an arm from you to wipe his face. 

Chan has to pry you away from his dick, chuckling when you protest. He tucks himself away despite your complaining. 

The four of you untangle from each other. Though the couch is small, all of you manage to snuggle against one another with you and Han in the middle. All of you are shining in afterglow and cum, with complete disregard for how you might react in the morning. 

Han picks his head up to overlook all of you, a playful scowl on his face. "And you were mad at me for smoking her out."

a/n: man i...I dunno what to say. this is totally self-indulgent. the way I need this to happen. thank you anon 🍃, I truly needed this

[just-another-t-word-blog]

Real Laugh

A Hazbin Hotel fanfiction

Okay so, I saw this fanart done by @kalico-of-doom while scrolling around the other day and I ABSOLUTELY HAD TO WRITE A FANFIC ABOUT IT. Otherwise the nonsense deep in my bones will consume me.

As always on my blog, serving up fresh hot garbage semi regularly, ⚠️⚠️ this is in fact a tickle fic. Don’t like, don’t read. Thank you.

Summary: Alastor thinks he’s funny, Angel thinks he should give him something to laugh about.

Self satisfied laughter rang through the sitting room in the hotel foyer. Alastor nudged Angel with his elbow, trying (unsuccessfully) to get him to join in. He’d been rattling off puns for the better part of 20 minutes now, causing most of the hotel residents to vacate the contaminated area. Angel, however, was trapped.

Not physically trapped, mind you, but he didn’t want to leave the powerful demon alone, fearing he may get upset. A happy Alastor was a safe Alastor, and Angel was not about to open that can of worms.

“Oh! I have another one,” Alastor said, smiling widely. “If you don’t mind the crassness, of course. What is the difference between an unclean bus stop, and a lobster with breast implants?” Angel sighed, but engaged, resting his chin in his palm and looking at his companion. “I don’t know, what?”

“One is a crusty bus station, and the other is a busty crustacean!” The red head broke into another fit of laughter, sounding as if he was faking it for a radio audience. This joke at least earned a smile from Angel, albeit a reluctant one. Alastor trailed off, turning to face the porn star more fully. “Oh, come now, why so serious?” Angel shook his head, offering a more exaggerated smile. “Hey, I did laugh at that one.”

“You smiled, my dear arachnid. I’d say that’s hardly laughter.” Angel scoffed, dropping the grin. “Maybe if you were actually funny, I’d laugh.” Alastor raised an eyebrow. “I am funny.”

This earned a genuine laugh from Angel. “Considering that’s the funniest thing you’ve said all day, I disagree.” He said, crossing his top set of arms. “Well, I disagree as well.” Alastor said, crossing his legs. “I’ve been laughing this entire time, so I’d say I’m pretty funny.”

“Funny looking, maybe.” Angel retorted, mocking his signature grin. “Besides, all I’ve been hearing is your fakey laugh.”

Alastor turned again. “Fakey?” He placed a hand on his chest, as if wounded. “That is simply untrue and hurtful, Angel. My laugh is genuine.”

“There is no way in any circle of hell that you actually laugh like that.”

Alastor gave a half hearted chuckle at that. Angel pointed. “See? No one fucking laughs like that. You sound like you’re reading off of a queue card!” Alastors smile faltered, going a little crooked. The two sat in silence for a moment, stewing.

“How’s about this one?” Alastor chimed. “What do you call a cow with two legs?” Angel gave him a flat look. “Lean beef!” Just as Alastor finished, Angel lunged, tackling the radio demon to the floor. They struggled, Alastor letting out a surprised yelp as the younger demon grappled for dominance. Having a weight disadvantage, Angel attempted to straddle his waist, only managing a half perch with one leg trapped under him, fighting Alastors wild bucking. He leaned forward, grabbing his upper arms from the underside and pushing them up, pressing his body weight into the hold. Alastors ears bristled, antlers threatening to grow and spike. “Enough with the bad jokes. What do you say we see what your real laugh sounds like?” A confused look crossed Alastors eyes.

With another set of arms, Angel dug clawed fingers into his ribs. Alastor gasped, holding the breath. He looked up at Angel, signature grin wobbling, squeezing his eyes shut and throwing his head to the side. Then, Angel lightened his touch.

The dam broke.

A stream of high pitched giggles erupted from the radio demon. Unrestrained, uncontrolled.

But most shockingly, happy.

Angel felt his face tinge red, a fond smile forming. He carefully scribbled his nails up and down Alastors rib cage, following his squirming. “Now that is a real laugh.” He cooed. He shifted his hands downwards, focusing on the skin where Alastors ribs turned into his sides. The older demon squealed before falling into more frantic laughter. His one free leg flailed about, the heel of his shoe scraping against the floor. “Woah there,” Angel teased, picking up the pace on his scratching. “You’ll wear a hole in the carpet! Niftys going to have a fit.” Alastor worked up the gall to look him in the eye.

“Fuck you!”

Unfortunately, the giggles took all the venom from his voice. Angel laughed. “I don’t know what your deal is, but you don’t need to swear at me! It’s not like you’ve asked me to stop!” A deep red blush painted Alastors face, eyes going wide for a split second before melting into another round of laughter. He finally spoke. “No! No, please-“ his pleading cut off with a yelp, Angel having gave his sides an experimental squeeze. “Ah-ha!” Angel exclaimed. “Another spot, jeez you’re just sensitive everywhere, aren’t you?” Alastor stuttered, trying to get out that he absolutely was not. To be fair, English is hard, and it’s substantially harder when most of your breath is being used for other things.

Angel paused his ministrations and grinned, catching Alastors eye. He brought out his third set of arms.

Shit.

Alastor began to plead again, shaking his head frantically. He was unable to keep the mirth from his voice. “No! Please, no more! I’m sorry, okay? I’ll stop with the puns!” His eyes never left that extra set, watching the wiggling claws hovering over him. “Aww, the big bad radio demon is begging now?” Angels voice dripped with playful sarcasm. Suddenly, he lunged all four free hands down.

Alastor shrieked.

And nothing happened. Alastor peered up at Angel, confused. The porn star had broken into his own stream of cackling, hunched over with his hands hovering inches away from Alastors skin. “I didn’t even touch you! What in the hells was that noise?!” Alastor made an incredulous face, for once his signature grin absent. “That sound was absolutely adorable.” Angel said, wiping a tear from his eye. “Do it again?” He lunged again, this time making contact. One set of hands scribbling up and down his ribs and sides while the others dug into his tummy. Alastor shrieked again (much to his dismay), falling into loud belly laughter. He threw his head back, unable to control himself through the onslaught. He yanked on his restrained arms, kicked with his free leg, and tossed his head side to side. He finally had enough.

Two black tendrils appeared behind his tormenter, wrapping around his middle and dragging him backwards off of Alastor. Angel screamed in surprise, flailing at the sudden jolt. Alastors tendrils held Angel there on the floor while he caught his breath, slowly sitting up. He smoothed his hair with his hands, taking a few deep breaths before putting on his sinister smile. “That was fun and all,” he said, standing to make his way towards Angel, “but I think it’s time to give you a taste of your own medicine.”

————

Charlie watched with teary eyes and a soft smile as her friends played. Hidden just around the corner, she had stopped to make sure no one was getting hurt. She had heard Alastor screaming and came running, finding a much more welcome sight.

Knowing neither of them were used to positive touch, she let them horse around. It might be good for them, after all.

Maybe she should find a way to work this into a lesson plan.

[m-ayo-o]

riding the bus

some people eh // just big scary Toji bein’ nice wc 500 selfshiptember; 19

As you’re heading home from work one evening, riding the bus as usual, you’re approached by a drunken man who’s in the mood for flirting.

You express that you’re not interested, trying to keep your cool, until his tone shifts, irritation brimming in his voice that you’re not paying him the attention he so wrongfully believes he deserves.

You go back and forth with the man until he’s gripping at your arm, trying to pull you closer. You protest, trying to sound as aggressive as possible when you tell him to get the fuck off.

But your efforts are in vain as you continue to struggle in his grip, his face edging closer to yours, until another arm enters the situation.

Clad in black, the brawny man grabs the drunk by his collar, hissing in his ear, “She told you to get off. I suggest you do it.”

The man drunkenly stumbles away, further back the bus, clearly afraid for his life.

You don’t blame him. The way this man is glaring with those dark green eyes is putting you on edge.

He casts his narrow eyes in your direction, his whole expression suddenly shifting to one of concern.

“Are you–” he hesitates, stepping back to his original spot, pulling his hood down further.

You move over to his side, holding onto the metal pole next to him as his eyes dart up.

“If you don't mind, I’d feel safer over here,” you utter, taking glances up at the drunk.

He nods and grunts positively, not wanting to make a big deal of it. He took care of everything so quietly it barely disturbed anyone on the bus.

“Thank you,” you whisper, earning a nod from the tall man.

It’s an odd feeling, being protected from harm by a complete stranger. The trust and respect that’s instantly shared between you brings you closer, edging centimetres away from his large body while the drunk stares down at you.

The fear inside you is almost overwhelming, your fingers trembling as you hold yourself. Is it wrong to want to rely on someone you don’t know? Does he feel responsible for you now?

“Let– let me walk you home.” His voice is low and soft, so different to how he spoke earlier.

You look up at him, stunned, feeling like it’s your lucky day as your eyes meet his. You nod and he reaches his hand out to you, which you place your delicate, shaky fingers in. He squeezes your hand tight, “I’m Toji, by the way.”

You exit the bus after chatting quietly with him for the remainder of the journey. He distracted you so expertly; his kind smile soothing your anxious disposition, your jittery voice becoming calmer during every second of your conversation.

And he walks you home, telling you he often uses that bus service, so to look out for him.

You thank him again, turning and closing your door as he walks away, leaving you hoping that you’ll see him soon.

toji | m.list

selfshiptember 19!!

likes, comments + reblogs appreciated! <3

[winonaparadise]

short story 💯

wrote a very quick story about a class i took in college. if you like my writing in my videos you may like this

Five years ago today I was clawing through state university. I had switched majors in an effort to come away with something more material from my college experience – but I was also trying to earn as many credits with as few courses to keep my schooling short and cheap.

I took a heavy weighted class in “media law.” A subject notoriously as intricate as it is absolutely fucking stupid. Anything you could learn, Disney will change tommorrow. The professor was an adjunct, splitting his time between the humble basement where boys with Pulp Fiction posters in their dorms fiddled with cameras and the actual law school where he was employed some miles down the road. I have never seen Pulp Fiction, but I’ve fiddled with enough cameras and enough of the boys who own them to have reviewed it twice. This is not a problem to me now.

Then I was stupid. Twenty. And basically friendless. I spent all my time trying to make something the same way the universe spent billions of years pouring hot soup into holes and hoping life would bubble out. I studied Japanese during quiet matches of PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds. I never got a win, and I never got an “A” in Japanese.

Weeks of school went by as I skimmed textbooks, got high, and thought about talking to literally anyone. Academic words danced around the edges of my brain like sand. I wrote essays on the same autopilot I write today. Feverish. Flowing. Fantasizing about what it would be like to go out with someone instead of texting a girl who now lived in Japan and making ramen noodles while listening for footsteps in a digital warzone.

I did all my work. I submitted it on something called “canvas” that the muscle memory in my fingers still types in search bars to this day. I never checked my grades. I knew they were bad.

Classes dragged me through the week on a bungee cord. I lived a block away from the bulk of them and found myself drifting in halls of buildings I’d never attended just to keep myself from meandering back home to draw a bad comic about a girl who lived in hell. 

I knew nobody. I went nowhere. I struggled to do classwork alone on outdoor benches dreaming of someone speaking to me. I needed to live in hell instead.

My media law professor was late the weekend after our first term essays were due. I don’t know what mode of transportation he took to get from one school to the other but today the Carolina sun had drenched him sweaty. We were chilly waiting for him to begin.

“Just about every single one of you failed.” He spat and chugged coffee through the entire period. “While I first was grading I thought I was the one who failed.”

He didn’t let the moment of respite last. “But I also did something I’ve never done before.” He paced like my father did when a restaurant was closed early. “I gave out my first perfect score. Which prevents me from grading on a curve.”

He huffed, he assigned a new reading, and he rushed out like he had lit dynamite. “Do better!” “What an asshole.” The girl who sat next to me in every class spoke as if she had been holding her breath. “Fuck him and fuck whoever got that hundred.”

“I know right!” I launched in on her anger, feeling it too. Back and forth we complained. We walked off campus together. She had long blonde hair and towered over me. I had felt ugly and mousey next to her, but today I felt like her equal. It felt good to bitch.

“I got a fucking 50. What about you?”

“It wasn’t pretty.” I recalled how I stayed up the night before the assignment was due. I milked bullshit into a puree. I got a rush of adrenaline from killing someone with a shotgun through a door in an abandoned house on the outskirts of Pochinki. I was probably close to being expelled. “This class is too fucking hard,” she smoked and shook her head by a bus stop on Tate Street. “I’m not about to lose my freetime over it.”

“Right.” I imagined her at parties. Black silhouettes against colored lights and deafening music. Like The Social Network. “We should be partners for the next assignment,” she got out her phone and passed it to me for my number. I typed it in. I waved her off on the bus. We did the assignment together. We texted each other about our studies. We joked about finding the guy who got the perfect score and beating him senseless. I thought about talking to her about my art or what we were making in other classes, but never did.

Towards the end of the semester I had to plan the next. A whirlpool churned in my stomach as I clicked on “grades” on my campus’ online portal. I had an A+ in a single course. 

Media Law.

My friend from class texted me that she was dreading the final. I texted her that if we failed I would kill Mr. Perfect Score. She texted “lol.”

She passed the course. I got my degree so I assume I did too. We stopped texting.

That professor emailed me asking me to take a course at the law school down the road. He said he would let me sit in and see if I wanted to change majors a third time. I never replied.

A law degree would just make Mr. Perfect Score a hundred times more punchable.

[slytheringlambert91]

No, Tim, You’re Not Being Kidnapped! (Except Maybe You Are…) Chapter 3

Chapter 3 is finally posted!

The next morning, Bruce meets them in the kitchen.

“Morning, boys, I thought I’d drive you to school today, that alright?”

Jason nods, grabbing some fruit off the counter as Alfred places their plates on the counter.

Tim only stares, somewhat bewildered. Jason guesses he’s never had his parents drive him to school, or at the very least it has been a very, very, long time.

Jason reacted the same way the first time Bruce drove him to school.

When they reach the school, Jason and Tim get ready to get out of the car.

“My meeting with the principal is after school,since I have a morning client meeting to get to, ok Jay?”

“Ok, see ya, B!”

“Have a good day, boys.”

Tim watches Bruce pull away, a somewhat mystified look on his face.

“Is it always like this?”

“Nah, most days Alfred brings me to school,”

“Do I need to take the bus after school, since you guys have your meeting?”

“Hell no. It shouldn’t take too long, Bruce can drive both of us home afterward. There’s no point in you taking the bus.”

English that day is…interesting, to say the least. When he walks in—and hands in the work from last class—Mrs. Campbell barely acknowledges him. After that, she opens class the same way she did before, but with a slightly more creative writing prompt: “What’s your favorite piece of literature and why?”

Jason keeps his head down and does his work, and aside a few pointed comments about respecting elders and whatnot, and the weird smugness oozing from her—as if she’s actually won, Jason wants to roll his eyes at the thought—class is peaceful.

It’s strange how peaceful it is.

Until the end, that is.

“Mr. Todd, see me after class. Everyone else is dismissed.”

Tim hesitates, eyeing Jason and Mrs. Campbell, then mouths “don’t do anything stupid,” at him.

Rude. He’s never done a stupid thing in his life.

Once everyone’s left, Mrs. Campbell calls him up to her desk.

“Just to confirm, the meeting with Mr. Wayne is after school, correct?”

“Yes, I—”

“Yes, ma’am. Not that I’d expect a street rat like you to understand, but in civilized society we respect our elders.”

“I respect those who deserve it. You definitely do not.”

“Why, you little—” she cuts herself off, takes a breath, and starts again. “You better fix your attitude, Todd. you might just find yourself dumped back on the street, seeing as how you are just Mr. Wayne’s ward. He’ll get tired of you soon enough, I assure you,”

No, Jason knows Bruce won’t abandon him, Bruce wouldn’t do that.

But what if—

No.

“Actually, ma’am, dumping me back on the streets would be child abandonment regardless of the situation, and he wouldn’t do that. Furthermore,” He revels in the shocked look on her face when he throws out a ‘big’ word, “I was adopted two years ago. Legally I am his child, and I would appreciate it if you recognized that. Now, I need to be going to class, seeing as how this little—pointless—meeting has made me late to biology.” He stalks out without waiting for a response, leaving the teacher to stew.

Bruce isn’t going to abandon him…right?

No.

No, he promised he wouldn’t.

Jason just needs to trust him, that’s easy, right?

Bruce has proven to be very trustworthy.

He’d thought he’d gotten over this fear, Bruce had shown him time and time again he wasn’t going to abandon Jason, but…

What if it was all a lie?

Only 3 and a half more hours. He needs to focus.

When he got to math a bit later, Tim met his gaze, “Everything ok?” He mouths.

Jason nods, and finds his seat.

“Why are you late, Jason?” The teacher, Mr. Gilbert, asks.

“Mrs. Campbell wanted to speak with me, she didn’t give me a note or anything though. If you want to confirm, you'll have to ask her.”

Mr.Gilbert grumbles under his breath, but turns back to the board and resumes teaching.

Jason struggles to focus, even though he knows he should. Math is his worst subject, and yet he can’t drag his thoughts from the whirlwind of fears running through his mind.

Bruce could get tired of him, nevermind that he hasn’t in the last 3 and a half years.

Jason runs through the rest of the day on autopilot, barely managing to take notes in his classes.

Tim meets him outside his last class of the day, History, and they head to the office to wait on Bruce. He leans against the wall, while Tim finds a seat on a bench outside the door.

When Bruce comes in a few minutes, he barely quirks an eyebrow at Jason’s blank stare. He squeezes Jason’s shoulder, snapping him out of his daze.

“Everything ok, Jay?”

Jason just nods mutely, not meeting Bruce’s gaze.

“He’s been quiet since after English.”

“Why? What happened in English?”

“The class itself was normal, but Mrs. Campbell made Jason stay back to talk to her afterwards. I don’t know what she said.”

Jason shoots a glare at Tim, “S’not a big deal. Let’s just get the meetin’ over with.” He scuffs his shoe on the ground and pushes off the wall.

Bruce sighs, but lets it go. He leads them into the office after quietly telling Tim they’ll be right back. He keeps a hand on Jason’s shoulders, and he has to force himself not to lean into it.

Bruce greets the secretary with his most charming ‘Brucie’ smile, trying to ignore how tense his son feels. He doesn’t know what that teacher said to him, but by god if he isn’t going to find out. This isn’t like Jason.

Jason meets everything with a sarcastic smile or sharp comment. He doesn’t shut down and go quiet.

The secretary waves them into the office, and he sees who he presumes is Mrs. Campbell sitting Primly in a chair across from the principal.

“Ah, Mr. Wayne, Now that you’re here we can finally begin.” The principal—Dave Horton, maybe?—begins. “I’ll be honest, I am very disappointed we are already having another meeting to discuss Mr. Todd’s behavior, it is only the 3rd day of school, after all.”

“His name is Jason Todd-Wayne and I expect you to respect that.” Bruce’s voice is hard, he is sick of dealing with this asshole of a principle. He’d had enough issues with Dick, and then it only got worse when Bruce adopted Jason. He should have just put Jason in another school.

“Yes, of course. Frankly, Mr. Wayne, I don’t know that Jason belongs at Gotham Academy. He is clearly uncivilized, and unable to meet our standards.”

“What makes you say that? Jason has been near the top of his class since I first enrolled him.”

“Be that as it may, he refuses to respect the faculty and staff, and if this continues we’ll—”

“Does he ‘disrespect’ the faculty that don’t make him feel inferior or question his place here? Because from what I’ve heard, it was Mrs. Campbell who started it, by refusing to acknowledge Jason’s proper name.”

The principal opens his mouth to respond, but Mrs. Campbell beat him to it.

“I was merely reminding Mr. Todd that his place here is, ultimately, temporary. He doesn’t belong here, and eventually, you will send him back to Crime Alley where he belongs.”

When he felt Jason tense even more under his hand, he realized what had probably triggered the borderline dissociation, the teacher had managed to hit Jason’s most deep-rooted fear.

“I don’t think that’s your decision. Jason is my son, in every sense but biologically. What would ever give you the idea that I would willingly abandon him?”

“Well, isn’t that what happened to the gypsy? You took him in, and now you haven’t been seen together in public in a very long time. Clearly you got tired of him and replaced him with a younger model.” The teacher says it all with a wicked smirk on her face, and hot rage washes over Bruce. Before he can react though, she’s continuing.

“I mean, it only makes sense, right? Why else would you replace the old one as soon as he becomes an adult, if you’re not using them?”

Before Bruce can respond, Jason is lunging at Mrs. Campbell. He barely manages to catch him before he hits her.

“Jay, stop. Either calm yourself down or go sit outside with Tim.”

Jason glowers, but settles himself down. “Fine.”

“I did not replace my son, Mrs. Campbell. He had career aspirations that led him to Bludhaven. I couldn’t just ignore Jason when I saw he needed help. Dick and I are still on perfectly good terms, and there was no replacing of anyone. However, I am wondering how the school is going to replace my funding once I pull my son from your school? Need I remind you of the generous donations I make yearly, on top of my tuition payments?” The principal paled, “You do realize that’s inevitable, right? I won’t stand for this treatment of my son. I shouldn’t have allowed it to continue for so long, but the truth was I was too optimistic in hoping for change. We’re done here. I will be pulling my son, and all my funding, out of this school.” Bruce revels in the shocked faces of the faculty. How could they expect this wouldn’t be the outcome? Maybe if they had actually been respectful and at least attempted to apologize and change their behavior, this wouldn’t have happened.

But they didn’t, they were rude from the start. Of course Bruce isn’t going to leave his son in a hostile environment.

Speaking of his son, Jason seems to have shut down again after his outburst. Bruce loops an arm over his shoulder and steers him out of the room.

Tim stands as soon as he sees them come out the door, wringing his hands nervously. Jason forces a smile and pulls out from underneath Bruce’s arm.

Hm. He’d have to talk to Jason about the abandonment thing again.

“Alright, let’s get going. I’m sure Alfred will have more cookies or other snacks prepared for you when we get home.” He leads the way out to the car, vaguely aware of Tim trying to break Jason out of whatever trance he’s in.

By the time they get home, Jason is engaging a bit more.

“C’mere, Jay.” Bruce gestures when they get out of the car. Tim steps slightly awkwardly off to the side, and Jason rounds the car to stand in front of Bruce.

“Yeah?”

Bruce doesn’t say anything, just opens his arms to offer a hug. Jay collapses against him and buries his face in Bruce’s chest.

“You know I love you, right lad? I’m never giving you up. I promise.” Bruce barely feels him nod, but doesn’t say anything else.

At some point he opens an arm to Tim, who hesitates for a while before joining.

Bruce loses track of how long he stands there holding his son and the boy he is fighting to get guardianship of, but eventually they do separate.

When they get into the manor, Dick is waiting for them.

…on the banister.

On the 2nd floor.

“‘Sup Dickhead. Ya come just to be a jackass again?”

Well, at least Jason’s in a better mood.

“...Should we be concerned?” Tim leans over to ask Bruce.

“He does this all the time, he’ll be fine.”

“You’re one to talk, but no. I came to apologize. Bruce and I had a disagreement,” Dick pointedly doesn’t look at Bruce, “and I took my frustrations out on you and Tim.” Dick flips off the balcony, and Bruce swears his heart stops until he is landing safely in a roll.

“Dammit, Dick, how many times have I told you not to do that?”

“Yeah, yeah, B. It’s fine. Anyway, I’m sorry guys. You didn’t deserve that. Especially you Tim—”

“Hey!”

“Shut up, Jay. Tim, you’re a guest, you definitely didn’t deserve my anger yesterday.”

Tim just nods, seemingly unsure of how to respond to that.

“Dick.”

“Language.”

“It’s his name!”

“Not when you say it like that.” Jason just rolls his eyes, and it’s a useless battle. “Dick, you staying? I’m sure Alfred has a snack in the kitchen.”

“Nah, I got practice in a bit. I’m already running a bit late since I was waiting for you guys.” He starts sauntering towards the door, calling over his shoulder, “I’m taking the Ducati.”

“Wait—” Bruce rushes to follow Dick.

“Right. That’s our cue to leave, they’re gonna get in a fight about safety again or somethin’.” Jason steers Tim towards the kitchen. “Whatcha wanna do today?”

“Is it always like this?”

“What?”

“Families. Are they always like this?”

“I dunno, I think this one’s jus’ fucked.”

“I love it. It feels so relaxed.”

“I think we gotta work on your definition of relaxed, Tim Tam. Those two are always at each other’s throats.”

“At least they’re around.” Tim quiets, staring at his feet.

“There is that, at least”. Jason’s voice gets more somber too, and they stay silent until they reach the kitchen.

The rest of the day passes smoothly, with Jason and Tim relaxing in the library.

Everything is fine.

Until Tim gets a call, his face immediately pales and he rushes to leave the room.

********

Tim’s heart drops the second he reads his mother’s name flashing across his phone.

He rushes from the room, entering another one down the hall.

“Hello, Mother.”

“Timothy, what is this nonsense about you not being at the house?”

”I am at the Wayne’s, you’ve always said connections are important, so I assumed you would approve of endearing myself to them.”

”Well you assumed incorrectly, Timothy, that is just absolute nonsense! Why would I want you to associate with a street rat and a gypsy? And that nuisance of a business man is in no way suitable for your company!”

”But—“ the phone is gently pulled from his grasp before he can finish his argument, and a quick glance shows Bruce holding it.

Jason tugs him out of the room, “C’mon, Bruce will handle it.”

They head to the sitting room and set up the game console.

The next hour or so passes slowly, with Tim’s anxiety building.

”What could be taking them this long?”

”Dunno, Bruce should be back soon though.”

Tim can’t focus on the game anymore, he drops his control and his fingers tap on his thigh.

Jason glances quickly at him, “It’ll be fine Timbo, promise.”

Before Tim can respond, Bruce comes back downstairs and hands Tim his phone.

“It’s handled, officially nothing has changed, but privately I will have custody of you for as long as they are out of the country.”

Something in Tim relaxes, he loved his parents, but after seeing how the Waynes act with each other—though they are so far from being a normal family—-he can’t help but crave that.

He wants a real family, not a mausoleum of a house.

The relief must show on his face, because Bruce is pulling him into a hug.

“Does it make me a bad person to feel relieved?” Tim mumbles against Bruce’s chest.

“Of course not, sweetheart, you just recognize that this isn’t normal, and you want something closer to it. You’re not a bad person, I promise.” Bruce’s voice is low, and he’s running a hand through Tim’s hair soothingly. He shifts back, looking at Jason and then Tim, “C’mon, it’s getting late. Why don’t you guys go get ready for bed?”

They both nod and scurry upstairs.

Jason barges into Tim’s room after he brushes his teeth, and scoops the boy off his feet. “How the fuck are you this light?”

“Rude.”

”Whatever.” Jason somehow carries Tim all the way to BRuce’s room, and again a=barges in without knocking.

”Bruce!”

An amused smile spread across Bruce’s face, “What’s up, Jaylad?”

”Hold the child. He doesn’t get enough physical affection.” He drops Tim on the bed, then shoves him over and climbs in after him. “Bedtime.”

”Ok, Jay.” Bruce laughs, then switches off the lamp and wraps his arms around both his boys.

@morganbritton132 @the-booty-crusader @ursulasteffany @raphyo @passing-through-bd @aidenxcz @seannasideblog @suffering-for-eternity @malflora @crow-in-trash @fhteehj @mysecret02 @idekwutoput @comicbooker16 @narration-ator @wothmzn @sp0rksupremacy @montywithchildhoodtrauma @nix-illustrating @shinelie

[earthtoharlow]

Teach Me

3) March

MASTERLIST

Ariel stood on her tippy toes to count all the kids in front of her. Today the first grade classes were going on their very first field trip to the aquarium. Looking down at her list she noticed there were a couple students who hadn't arrived yet, noticeably, Jayla Harlow.

Since Valentine’s Day, Jack and Ariel’s text conversations turned into long phone conversations after Jack would put Jayla to bed, she enjoyed hearing about how Jack struggled getting Jayla ready for bed, or how Jayla wouldn’t eat all her vegetables at dinner.

Ariel loved hearing these small details Jack tells her about his life. She always made mental notes about Jayla’s likes and dislikes, while being her teacher she knows Jayla well but it was different when hearing Jack talk about her. Jack’s life ended and began with Jayla, he talked about his daughter like she hung the moon.

Despite sharing all these small tibbetts about their home life, Jack never brought up Jayla’s mom. Jayla was a beautiful young girl, so she imagined her mother to be just as beautiful. Someone with kind brown eyes and a sweet smile, just like Jayla. Ariel could never quite bring herself to ask him.

Her thoughts were cut short when she heard her name being called. Turning around she saw Nova Wyatt’s father holding Jayla’s hands as they walked towards her. When they got closer, Jayla immediately ran to give Ariel a hug.

Bending down so they were at the same height, Ariel wrapped her arms around Jayla giving her a tight squeeze. She could notice that Jayla wasn’t in a good mood. Letting go, she stood up to greet Mr. Wyatt

“Hello, Mr. Wyatt, it's nice to see you again.” holding out her hand for him to shake

“Call me Urban.” Urban said as he shook her hand.

Urban leaned in closer so he could whisper. “I just wanted to let you know that Jayla is kinda upset this morning because Jack couldn’t make it today to come on the field trip with her.”

Ariel nodded before glancing at Jayla who was talking to her other classmates. She knew how excited Jayla was when Jack signed up to come with her, this would mark the second time Jack hasn’t shown up for Jayla.

Ariel was still watching Jayla with a small frown when Urban spoke again. “I don’t know if he’s mentioned it to you, knowing him probably not, but Jack hasn’t been the same since Alyssa passed away a few years ago. He’s become such a hermit, I don’t think he realizes how much it’s affecting Jayla.”

She wanted to ask him more about Alyssa but knew now wasn’t the right time or place to ask. Besides, she would rather hear it from Jack himself. Taking her eyes off Jayla she turned back towards Urban.

“Thank you for letting me know, don’t worry. I’ll be with Jayla all day, making sure she’s okay.”

“Thanks, I’d really appreciate it…” Urban paused before speaking again “Jack would too” he said, giving Ariel a smirk. She could feel her face getting warm.

“Yeah, well it was nice seeing you again Urban. I have to finish checking in all the students.” Ariel said and quickly turned away.

Urban laughed under his breath before leaving.

***

Ariel stood up in her seat as the school bus came to a stop in front of the aquarium. The noise on the bus got louder as the kids got excited looking out the windows.

She raised one hand in the air and one finger to her lips.

“Chicka, Chicka!”

She watched as the kids immediately sat and quieted down.

“Boom, Boom!” They all yelled out.

“Great job! We’re going to exit the bus with no pushing and shoving. Once you get outside, we’re going to line up quietly next to Mrs. Swan’s class.”

She watched as the class nodded excitedly, not being able to keep still in their seats on the bus. One by one each student exited the bus and quietly lined up. Jayla being the last one to get off. After double checking to make sure the bus was empty, Ariel quickly pulled out her phone to message Jack.

“Not going to lie, I’m disappointed you didn’t show up today, but not as much as Jayla is.” She hesitated for a moment before pressing send. She knew Jack didn’t want to disappoint or upset Jayla but she sees the change in Jayla's mood when Jack doesn’t show up. Ariel cared about Jayla a lot and hated seeing her upset.

She sighed when she noticed that Jack immediately opened it and left her on read.

***

Ariel was sitting at a nearby table eating her packed lunch as the students ate their own when Jayla plopped down next to her.

Looking up, she greeted one of her favorite students. “Hi, Jayla! Have you finished eating?” She asked her

She watched as Jayla sighed and pushed the curls that were falling in front of her face back with her hand before replying.

“I guess so, I love my uncle Urby but he’s bad at packing lunches…” Jayla said with a pout.

Ariel tried to hold back her laughter before nodding her head before reaching into her bag and grabbing the half of her turkey sandwich she didn't eat.

“Well, I didn’t eat half of my sandwich, do you want it?”

Jayla immediately nodded her head and grabbed the sandwich, biting into it. “MHM, so much better than uncle urby’s peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!!”

The two continued to eat while chatting about all the different animals they saw today.

“Miss Love! Did you see the fish that looked like Nemo?!” Jayla asked excitedly, bouncing in her seat.

“Sure did, and I even noticed one that looked like Dory!” Ariel watched as Jayla’s eyes widened in shock

“Woah, that’s so cool!”

Jayla paused for a beat before speaking again. “I wish Daddy was here to see it.”

Ariel could see Jayla was getting upset and pulled her into a hug. “I know, I bet he wishes he could be here even more. We’re going to see the seahorses next, so when you get home you can make dad super jealous!”

She could tell that Jayla was so upset after she pulled away from the hug. “C’mon, let’s throw away our trash.” Ariel said, grabbing Jayla’s hand.

“I heard that seahorses are your dads favorite!” Ariel said, trying to get Jayla excited.

Jayla covered her mouth with her hand as she giggled. “Yeah! Daddy said in the past he thinks he was a seahorse!!”

Ariel laughs along with her. “Oh how silly!”

***

Jack didn’t want to admit it but seeing Ariel message this morning about missing Jayla’s trip, hurt. The last thing he ever wanted to do was disappoint his daughter. After Alyssa's death, being around large groups of people gave him anxiety. Which was almost hard to believe when he used to perform in front of sold out shows.

He found himself at the Louisville Aquarium, Jack knew he looked ridiculous in his all black outfit but he didn’t care. He was quite proud of himself for making it out of the house.

Jack walked around the aquarium for a bit before finding Jayla’s class. He watched as the students listened to the guide tell them facts about all the seahorses in the water, but then he focused on his two favorite people. His blue eyes fixed on the way her jeans hugged her hips and the way her hair was pulled up in a perfect bun. Jayla stood not too far from her teacher.

Ariel and Jack had been talking ever since Valentine’s Day. He would call her after he put Jayla in bed for the night. The feelings he was starting to feel for Jayla’s teacher scared him. He went on a couple dates a year after Alyssa passed but always ended up leaving the date early, or finding excuses to reschedule the date and eventually the women just stopped calling.

For some reason, he didn’t feel the need to run with Ariel, and that scared him even more.

He continued to watch from afar waiting for the perfect time to make his presence known. He found the window when the guide motioned the kids to follow her to the next exhibit. Ariel was a few feet behind them still watching the seahorse. Jack walked up beside her, and started watching the seahorses as well. He could see Ariel side eye him before turning her attention back towards the glass.

Jack cleared his throat before speaking. “Did you know that male Seahorses are the ones who give birth and not the females?”

He wanted to laugh at the way Ariel snapped her head towards him.

“What?”

“The guy seahorse delivers the baby, that’s my whole vibe. I wish I could deliver my own kids.”

“I’m sorry, but that’s really…” she stopped talking when she got a good look at him. All Jack could do was smirk.

“Jack?!”

“Hey” Jack said with a charming grin

Ariel was shocked and then looked at him up and down, checking out his outfit.

“I’m really happy you’re here, but can I ask you a quick question?” Ariel asked him with her own grin spreading across her face.

Jack nodded for her to go ahead.

“What is that bonnet supposed to be protecting?”

Jack laughed, before bringing his hands up to touch the top of his bonnet.

“Hey! I have curly hair!”

“Ok fair, but it looks like a chef's hat on you.”

Ariel laughed at the pout on Jack’s face.

“But seriously, I’m really happy you’re here. Jayla will be too. She really wanted you here today.”

Jack nodded., frown spreading across his face “I’m really sorry about today, and the last few months honestly.”

Ariel shook her head at his apology. “You don’t have to say sorry to me or even explain yourself. Jayla deserves one more.” Nodding her head towards Jayla who was doing a scavenger hunt with the class.

He nodded in agreement before touching her arm, ignoring the small spark he felt and walked over to Jayla.

Ariel watched with a wide smile as Jack got Jayla’s attention. She squealed in excitement at the sight of her father, jumping onto his arms. When Jack picked her up, she reached out and grabbed his face with both hands trying to tell him about her day all in one breath.

She couldn't help but laugh when she saw Jayla tugging on his bonnet, trying to get it off.

Jayla then turned her attention to Ariel.

“Miss Love!” She yelled out waving her over.

Not wasting any time, Ariel walked over to join them. Happy to see the smile back on Jayla’s face.

***

AN: I love this chapter a lot! Please let me know your thoughts, and as always thank you for reading! 🫶

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[sadstrever]

i’m still 114lbs. i feel sick. yesterday was an awful day, i came home and had an out of body chew and spit session. i wish there was more research on this part of ed’s, or just more people who talked about it because i can’t be alone in this. i refuse to believe i’m the only sick person who does disgusting shit like this. anyways the reason why i call it an out of body experience is because it’s almost like binging-just without all the swallowing of food. i came home and immediately started doing it and filled up 1 and 1/2 2 liter bottles with food. i spent 5 hours doing this without even realizing and pretty much emptied out my whole families fridge. the guilt i felt afterwards was worse than a binge in my opinion. not only did i totally waste SO MUCH food, make a huge mess, ended up with disgusting bottles of mush in my room, i also have to face the consequences of my family coming home to an empty fridge. but when they got home they were happy that i “ate.” god i’m such a fucking piece of shit.

anyways after all that i took 4 laxatives to try and get the guilt of wasting the food out of me. i woke up in the morning today in terrible pain but still had to go to class, cuz what am i supposed to tell my parents? “yeah i haven’t eaten in almost a month and basically just threw all the food we have out in the trash and i also took 4 laxatives, can i please stay home tehe?” so i went to 1 class and ended up leaving because the pain was so excruciating. straight from class i went to the gym and somehow burnt 900 calories because i guess that’s what guilt does to me. i had to take the bus 2 hours home afterwards(bus delays and i went to a new further gym location this time), high out of my mind. i’m home now and my stomach hurts but the laxatives finally did their job. i don’t want to keep doing this. 4 years ago i said i’d recover and then i didn’t. since then i’ve forgotten about recovery (with the exception of a few random moments here and there that i block out immediately), i am so used to living in this fucking misery that i didn’t realize how abnormal my reality is. i don’t want to be a bad person anymore. but i can’t stop lol.

this is what bothers me about the girls who romanticize this disorder SO MUCH, when much of the time they haven’t realized how difficult it can become. i know i’ve done this, even now sometimes as a coping mechanism. but man, i’m sick of it.

i have a friend who writes poetry and she wrote a poem about eating disorders that make me so fucking angry. the thing is, i’ve known her for years and she’s always had the best relationship with food out of most of the people i know. she’s naturally pretty thin(not too thin but normal) and she’s very open about her struggles. i know every single one of her stories, i know she’s diagnosed with adhd. that’s HER disorder, that i don’t understand so i DONT write fucking POETRY about it. a few months ago she kind of forced me into opening up about my eating disorder. after i did, suddenly she started writing these stories about her eating disorder-very very very suspiciously similar to mine. i obviously didn’t tell her everything but i told her about how long this has been going on and just my emotions about it. seeing her start to adapt my fucking disorder into her poetry disgusted me. she glamorized the fuck out of it and made me feel so stupid for ever opening up about it. she’s naturally skinny so she got a bunch of support from our friend group from it and i’m just upset man. i’m sick of living in misery while other people can use the idea of living in pain for attention.

i promised my best friend that in 3 weeks i’ll go back to therapy and try my best to recover. it’s not true. man it’s never fucking true. it’s never fucking over. unlike ms.deep-poetry-girl i can’t just fucking write this and log off and then eat a good warm meal and talk to my parents without them mentioning my body. i can’t wake up tomorrow morning and hug them without worrying that they’re gonna feel my bones. i can’t wear shorts anymore without people noticing the bruises. i can’t go to school and keep my focus because i have nothing to feed my brain. i can’t let anyone get close because soon enough they’ll be just like YOU. OR they’ll hate me for not wanting to get better. i can’t love myself like you do because of the disgusting things i do each day. i can’t wake up thinner and suddenly stop hating myself. FUCK YOUUUUUUUU GOD IM SO SICK OF IT GOD. whatever im done. just sick and tired.

[tornrose24]

I’ve been rewatching The Ghost and Molly McGee and have concluded watching season 1. These are my thoughts and observations:

-I love how Scratch slowly warms up to Molly across the season and it is easier to catch when you watch the episodes in order. From going to a complete jerk, to valuing her friendship, to caring about how she views him, to not wanting to lose her.

-I also love how this show’s art style is like a storybook come to life in every shot.

-It makes even more sense as to why Scratch haunts Adia’s old home. Todd’s soul gravitated to the one place in Brighton that held happy memories for him, where life had yet to turn him into an anxious, fearful adult. It was a safe space for him, and he was mad when a family managed to move in and invade it. Especially Molly specifically moving into his personal room/the safest spot in the house for him.

-Molly and Scratch are BOTH horrible liars. It’s funny how similar they are in that detail, and it’s even funnier if they call each other out on it.

-Scratch is an absolute asshole to a lot of people and enjoys seeing them suffer during this season, but I think that partly stems from a ‘I was/am miserable so I like seeing others suffer.’

-I’d say Molly’s worst episode is the Snow Day episode (not listening to what everyone else wants to do) and Scratch’s worst episode is the Internship episode (taking advantage of an intern to do basic, unhelpful tasks and being a bigger asshole than usual).

-Molly nearly dies 4 times (the machine during ‘Friend off,’ was willing to catch hypothermia in order to have fun in the snow, was almost hit by the truck, and was nearly sliced in half by Jinx).

-Scratch, Mr. ‘So afraid of dying that I never lived a day’…. Gets trampled by animals, eats poison berries, gets hit by a tour bus, gets blended by the machine from ‘Friend off,’ and is sliced in half by Jinx among all the possible things that WOULD have killed him in this season if he hadn’t been a ghost at the time.

-In ‘Very Hungry Ghost’ Scratch doesn’t get to eat any of the food intended for the ghosts. Because he wasn’t fully a ghost, that feast was not meant to be eaten by him.

-I admit I have yet to catch Scratch’s ‘nervous habit of scratching his arm’ during these episodes.

-There’s a recurring theme of the adult characters regaining their passion for something they once loved in a few episodes.

-However I also appreciate showing very realistic struggles, like financial concerns and how you can’t magically restore your community and town to its glory days without some effort put into it.

-Libby’s mom can be seen as an early cameo during ‘The (Un)natural.’ Of course, she would be there for her daughter ^_^

-I’m not a huge fan of the Christmas episode (never rewatched it until now) but GOD do I love the pink sky they use against the Christmas decorations and snow.

-In Pete’s news article in ‘Twin Trouble’, it mentions that other city planners mysteriously disappeared. However, I don’t think the show EVER addressed that, because such a story fascinated me and made me wonder if there was more to Brighton than meets the eye.

-There was a wasted opportunity in not discussing who or WHAT The Chairman was. Was this mystery meant for season 3?

-Scratch mentioning that he is dead throughout the show hits differently now that we know its quite the opposite. So does seeing him having to do mandatory things for the ghost world that he technically shouldn’t NEED to be doing at that moment.

-So does his interactions with Geoff. Oh boy.

-Was Scratch specifically assigned to scare Brighton? What about the other ghosts from there, like the Tugbottom siblings? Howlin Harriet? Sonia? Why don’t we see them doing their job as much as Scratch has to?

-The sheer irony of Scratch believing that he didn’t have any fears in ‘Scaring is Caring’ only for fear to be the reason WHY he was a ghost to begin with. Once again, there’s a hell of a difference between ‘Scratch as a human being afraid of everything’ and ‘Scratch as a ghost being afraid of losing Molly and would do anything to save her.’

-No seriously, it gets to a point where Scratch risks his existence to save Molly in this season and in the next one-if he had been human, he would have been willing to die for her.

-‘All Night Plight’ is an episode I hadn’t rewatched until recently. And it hits a LOT differently this time around. Molly wanted to form a forever memory with Libby and Scratch by seeing that comet and she managed to win over Scratch who went above and beyond to ensure that was possible. While that memory is now somewhere hidden in Scratch’s mind as a living person, this episode likely was one of the events needed to push him into becoming someone who would take chances and embrace life upon coming back to life.

-Considering the number of times Molly almost dies, it would have been one thing if Scratch didn’t take it too well if he failed to save Molly. But if he learned that he was the one who had the chance to come back to life and not her? Yeah, that would have seriously wrecked his mental state.

-That moment when you realize that it was TWO souls hovering on the edge between life and death that changed everything in the Ghost World. Also I could be wrong, but I caught that Molly AND Scratch both have a brighter glow compared to most other ghosts in the Ghost World. Was this stealth foreshadowing, or just a coincidence?

-Scratch’s declaration that knowing Molly was the highlight of his afterlife. That moment when you realize Molly brought him joy after years of being miserable as both a ghost and as a human. This girl reached out to him and was able to get him to open up when no one else did. This girl who is showing him how to truly live once more. This girl who he openly declares to be his friend no matter what others will think.

-When I see Wraith!Molly hugging Libby and Scratch, I just wonder ‘WHY DOES MOLLY HAVE 3 ARMS?!’

-As good as this show is, a lot of folks who watch these Disney Channel shows are likely used to the more story-oriented shows. While the ‘slice of life’ style for TGAMM did pay off, the slow pace and length it took for the episodes to release likely worked against it and I could see why it didn’t attract more viewers at the time.

Stuff relating to Todd:

-Scratch possesses people a lot in this show, but especially in season 1. I’m reminded of someone who talked about the wraith theory on YouTube and he had this guess that Scratch might someday possess Todd and then realize something is different this time. I think that having Scratch use the possession trick so often was building up to that one moment in the last episode because it WAS a matter of time until he possessed Todd.

-As I said in a previous post, I caught Todd in the stands during The (Un)Natural, which was his ACTUAL debut episode. It was easy to miss the first time, but its a noticeable establishing character moment since he’s the only audience member who is visibly NOT happy despite that the team is winning.

-Molly stopping at Todd’s house during the song montage in the bandshell episode hits a lot differently now after the series finale. But then I laughed when she smacked him in the face with a flyer upon stopping by the house a second time in the same episode.

-We have confirmation that Scratch (as Todd) knew the mayor when they were kids and that is a tale I’m very curious about.

-I caught Todd in the audience during ‘Citizen McGee’ when the mayor bestows the honor of being mayor for a day to Molly. I admit a cynical side of me thinks that this is how he actually remembers her name in the last episode…. But at the same time he was so on auto-pilot during that time that he likely wouldn’t pay much attention or remember those events that well. (Plus, you can’t be expected to remember someone’s name once all the time). I refuse to believe that he remembered this event and that Scratch’s memories were what actually triggered the name.

-Todd’s actual lines are very limited (I don’t think he gets many in season 2 compared to this one). While Dana Snyder was voicing him, Snyder lowered his voice so much that it’s really hard to tell that he’s the one voicing Todd. I keep putting my ear to my computer to listen, but Todd barely sounds like Dana. I think they did this on purpose to avoid making it too obvious that Todd IS Scratch. (And that’s probably why he doesn’t talk as much in season 2…. Until the last episode of course).

-The Internship seems to double as foreshadowing, and not just because Todd appears or that his ‘junk’ held some very crucial clues. Molly believes that the pawnshop is where happy memories go to die while Weird Larry assures her that it’s where memories can be reborn into something new. So… is the pawnshop a metaphor for Scratch’s own depression causing his ‘death’ and how he’ll be resurrected into a happier person?

[bibellebibuck]

Finale Thoughts

This is a long ramble that I’ve attempted to categorise and form into something coherent - but bear with me if there’s any mistakes, I’m working rn and didn’t have time to proofread🙏🏻

HENREN & MADNEY

I adore Madney and how inherently GOOD they are all the damn time. My favourite straights ever.

I know there’s differing opinions on this plot line but honestly I am glad that Madney are fostering Mara, for Maras sake. It’s a safe space her for where she’ll be loved and can keep in contact with Henren.

I do agree, though, that the constant struggles they put Henren through as they try to build their family is getting old and tired now, let them off the struggle bus, it’s time for a breather.

It’s a testament to how rushed this episode was that we didn’t even SEE the councilwoman at all. She just drops this bomb on the Henren family last episode and then disappears? No follow up? Okay.

My thoughts/hopes on these guys for S8 are; Madney will be left as they are once the Mara storyline is resolved (which I think won’t take long after the whole Gerrard situation is sorted) as they’ve had a lot going on with their wedding etc. I think they’ll be put aside for a while while other characters stories are expanded this season. I think it’s a possibility we’ll get another Buckley-Han baby after they see the sibling dynamic between Mara and Jee. Afterall, it was Maddie who commented on Denny and Mara “getting along so well” “like siblings”.

Henren specifically id like to see more of, I want Karen and DENNY! to have more screentime. Karen’s job is fucking interesting, SHOW US MORE SOMEHOW!! And Denny, what’s going on with his relationship with his dad now? This kids a great actor, give him a little more screen time.

BATHENA & AMIR

Now, Athena was bad ASS this episode. I love BAMF Athena with all my heart, that’s literally my mother. Her talk with Amir was emotional and I think well written (one of the few well written moments in this episode..) but it all went downhill from there. Amir’s rescue was rushed as fuck, I wasn’t tense at all, Athena basically showed up, burnt the place down and sauntered out with Amir like it was nothing. Ofc my girl is capable of this no problem… but it wouldn’t have hurt to have had more of a fight scene, maybe Amir being a little more proactive, then show them struggling to get out of the fire? Idk. Just SOMETHING to expand on the scene a little. I did like “I’m Mrs Bobby Nash” though, hell yeah you are <3

Oh also Yay! May sighted!! Love my girl, wanna see more of her in S8 I miss her sooo much :(

For S8, I think Bathenas marriage issues should be gently explored a little more, i feel this plot line wasn’t properly resolved during the cruise eps? Idk maybe I’m just a nervous child of divorce but I’d like to see some of their trust issues put to rest. I mean, just an episode ago Athena was terrified Bobby was going to off himself, and Bobby literally retired without telling her. It’s not healthy, I wanna see them work it out and get stronger together. I don’t want more conflict between them to cause this though, maybe they just start up a conversation when things have calmed down and agree to talk it out or go to couples therapy or something. Leaving them where they are right now will feel like a dropped plot line.

I want to see more of Amir but I sincerely doubt we will, I have a feeling he won’t even be seen in S8 at all to be honest. It’s a shame, he’s an interesting character that I’d totally love the see explored more. Someone suggested he could be a connection opportunity for the hospital? I like that. Tim, take notes !!

I also want them to stop murdering Angela Bassets hair. Let her slay, please.

BUDDIE

I wish I had more to say here, but sadly… I don’t. My heart is telling me we’ve been gently queer baited once again, but I think that’s just old scars hurting (Destiel and johnlock survivor ✊🏻), my head is telling me a lot of the hype was stirred up by us as fans giving journalists and actors comments a little too much credit.

This isn’t to say I don’t think Buddie is happening, i still have my naive little belief that if WILL be canon eventually. They’re just going to drag it out as long as possible for the drama and possibly to appease Those fans, and the older viewer base who won’t be pleased by buddie canon.

I was very disappointed by the scene after Chris left, where Buck just put his hand on Eddies shoulder. We can say all we like that the shoulder touch is Their Thing™️ but in that situation a hug was absolutely goddamn necessary. Idc about shipping, that man needed a hug from his best friend in that moment. I think Buck needed it too. They just said goodbye to their son for an indefinite amount of time ffs why are we standing here like absolute mugs.

S8 - I want gay Eddie this season. I want it.

I want gay Eddie and then I want them both to be single for a while and Then I want buddie. If they can fit this into season 8 while keeping a nice steady pace (I have little faith after this insanely rushed finale, but let’s give them the benefit of the short season doubt) then I want Buddie feelings realisation towards the end of S8.. possibly setting up canon for S9 or even ending S8 with canon and a cliffhanger.. maybe a good one this time though!

As much as I’d like to see Buck supporting Eddie as he navigates life without Christopher, I don’t think we’ll get many scenes between them at first. I think this is where Ryan is talking about Eddies isolation. He’s going to go to work, be with his family, then go home and be without his family, and it’s at this time that he’s going to be working on himself. To get better for Chris, and for his own mental health. This journey is his alone, and I think it (although a little painful) makes sense that Buck isn’t involved in this too much.

EDDIE & CHRIS

To sum it up.. OUCH!

Eddie is an amazing father, and if you think otherwise just block me. He made a mistake with Kim, that does not make him a bad father. Him respecting Christopher’s space and choices in this ep was soooo healing and lovely to see, he called Buck because he knows Chris trusts and loves him and needed somebody to talk to, and knew he wasn’t the person for that right now.

I’ve seen some people bothered about how it’s unrealistic for the Diaz parents to have gotten to eddies so fast after the incident. To this I say, how are you not used to 911s complete disregard for timelines/timeline realism at this point? Just let it happen and move on, like it’s a fantasy land where time isn’t real. Now, I’m not American so maybe I don’t get the extent of the distance between LA/Texas - but still, I enjoy the show more I think, because I don’t overanalyse the timeline 😅

What I DO find unrealistic is that Chris would call his grandparents and not Buck. I’m not looking at this through shipping lenses either, I’m saying that when Eddie had his breakdown, Chris’s first instinct was to call Buck. When Chris was upset and scared at the Ana situation, he went straight to Buck. And now this, he doesn’t talk to Buck at all before calling his grandparents?

It makes sense that he wanted to go to Texas as if he stayed with Buck he wouldn’t really be getting much space from his dad, and maybe he’d be thinking that Buck/Eddie would be on his case trying to force forgiveness on him while he’s there. But I think he first instinct would still have been to Call Buck to discuss the situation first, to confide in him, ask for help. Then he’d call his grandparents.

For S8 - I hate to be a downer but I don’t think we’ll see Chris this season. At LEAST the entirely of 8a, anyways.

As I mentioned earlier, I think this season will show Eddie growing and healing from this situation and becoming the person he wants to be, for himself and for Chris.

I think there is a lot of potential for us to finally get some Eddie & Maddie scenes, she could open a conversation with Eddie about her own struggles with feeling like an unfit parent for Jee - maybe Buck initiates this conversation, asking Maddie to speak to him?

I hope he will finally be able to put his insecurities about his parenting aside and stop trying to find Chris a mother figure, and accept that they’re a fine (wonderful, even) family unit as they are.

BUMMY / BT

Ooooohhh lord let’s get into it then.

It’s no secret that I hate this relationship. I do NOT hate it because I am a Buddie shipper, or because I’m homophobic (the fact that I have to clarify this is stupid, but the anon hate in my inbox means it’s necessary). When BiBuck became canon, I was OVERJOYED! I was excited to see Buck exploring his identity and enjoying a relationship with a new partner (I did want him to be single for a while originally, but it wasn’t a big deal, the Natalia relationship was barely a relationship anyways).

I initially had a bit of an ick from the way Tk kissed Buck to ~shut him up~ but I’m a bit of a hypocrite here because I don’t entirely hate this trope usually, but only when it’s between two well established characters who know each other well. At this point, Tk is still new to Buck so it did bother me a little. But, we move.

Then… the first date. I fucking hated this date, Tk almost outed Buck and then left him on the pavement like an a class ASS. I lost all interest in this relationship at this exact moment.

In this episode, on this date, we see Buck opening up about his relationship with Bobby as a father figure (WIN!! Let’s appreciate our small victories!!). Tk then gives us “but your fathers alive” which ?? What’s your point?? Why aren’t you comforting your partner right now?

And shared his own experience with having a shitty dad. We then get the daddy issues joke.

To detour for a moment; we all remember when Buck went to therapy and opened up about his sex addiction, right? How he was being vulnerable about his trauma/mental health, to the point that he was in actual tears… and then his therapist came onto him and slept with him. The show brushes this under the rug and even later makes a joke about it. We’ve all expressed our distaste for this in the past and rightly so. Aside from how morally wrong it was, it was also incredibly distasteful in a very real way.

We’re given a very close repeat of this situation in the finale. Tommy sexualising Bucks trauma is not only unfair on bucks character, but also a shitty slap in the face to real people in the real world too. How many times have we been sexualised for having “daddy issues”? The answer is a lot. This scene was Downright Offensive.

It’s so disappointing because in some ways this show is so progressive, and has handled some sensitive topics in such a great way in the past. But it’s really fumbled the bag with this one.

A large and hopeful part of me thinks all these tense/awkward/unhappy/unsatisfying BT scenes are a setup for BT bones in S8. If they wanted us to like Tk and be invested in this relationship, SURELY they’d make him more likeable & more supportive of Buck?

The awfulness of his character and the stilted scenes between him and Buck do feel intentional. And I reaaallly hope this is the case.

S8 - preferably, BT Bones off screen before the season even begins, Natalia style.

More likely, BT bones within 8a, due to Gerard’s return and the tension this will cause between him and Tk.

Most likely, BT bones by the end of 8b. I truly truly truly, with all my heart and head and hands, do not believe BT is surviving to season 9.

BUCK

just wanted to put in a little paragraph here about Buck specially, piggybacking off of what I’ve said about his trauma being sexualised etc.

They have consistently missed opportunities to flesh out Bucks trauma, and he has MANY to choose from. If they continue to ignore this aspect of Buck, it will be a great disservice to his character. I know we all joke about wanting Buck to go through more shit situations for the angst, and how we want him to have a big breakdown at some point but honestly - it really is overdue. I don’t just want him to suffer for funsies, I want his character to make sense, I want him to continue to be massively relatable, I want him to address his trauma and work through it and move on etc. etc. etc.

Here’s hoping we get the single Eddie and Buck arcs in S8/maybe 9 and both of them get therapy, properly.

RAVI

My boooyyy!!! The framing of that last shot, I do reckon Ravi will main soon. They didn’t drop his insane childhood lore, and built on him as a character (while Chim was at the academy with him) for no reason.

I am personally really looking forward to seeing him get a lot more screentime in S8. It’s what the people want!!!!!!

GERRARD

Why did they act like this was such a major twist?? Like why else would they have shown him last episode..

I don’t really understand how he can have been made captain of the same firehouse he was removed from for bullying a crew that is literally still there.. but for the plot I guess we’ll go with it!

I look forward to him finally getting his comeuppance in season 8, but the asshole he’s going to be to everyone sounds less fun.

Let’s look at what we might have in store, hm?

-Racist to Chim, Hen and now probably Ravi too.

-Homophobic to Buck.

-If Bobby is around, no doubt he’ll be demeaning to him.

-And, i fear, if he somehow knows about Eddies current situation, will he make snide remarks about him as a father? Idk, I wouldn’t put anything past the bastard.

I’d really like to see the team take a stand against him though, I know he’s their captain for now and they will, to an extent, respect him (or at least do as he says). But it would be nice to see some firefam crew solidarity the face of his bigotry and bullying. It won’t be realistic if any of them just stand by and listen/watch while he makes shitty racism/homophobic jokes to their family.

Going to be a fun (🫠) few episodes!

FINAL THOUGHTS

As an episode, this wasn’t horrendous, but certainly not great. As a finale, it was terrible. Underwhelming sums it up, disappointing emphasises it nicely.

I look forward to getting back to a full length season that has hopefully will be written a little more in advance than this one was. Let’s be optimistic, or this hiatus won’t be too enjoyable.

Can’t wait to spend the next few months binging Buddie fics and reading all your theories!! And don’t forget we get S8 BTS pics in just a few weeks 😭🫶🏻

Feel free to send me any asks if there’s something I’ve forgotten to mention that you’d like my thoughts on - or if you have any theories etc. I love to get asks from your guys 💛

[sunshinesteviee]

hi!! from the meet cute list, can I request sitting next to each other on a long bus/train ride with steve? thank you!!

hehe i loved this one! hope you like it too <3 fem!reader, wc: 950ish

-

Steve hates the bus. It’s usually too crowded, and is almost never as quiet as he wishes it was. Plus, he’s always bored out of his mind. He already struggles to focus reading books normally, but it becomes exponentially harder on a bumpy, loud bus. But money has been tight since moving to Chicago for college, and taking the bus back home to Hawkins is cheaper than driving.

Of course, Steve was running late, and by the time he boards the bus, there are only a few seats left. He doesn’t particularly like most of his options — an older woman who will totally talk his ear off the entire time is a definite no, and so is the middle aged man who reminds him a bit too much of his dad, though he can’t imagine his dad ever taking the bus. The last option seems most promising — a girl who looks about his age with her nose buried in a book. He doesn’t want to bother her, but he also doesn’t want to take his chances.

He stops in the aisle and clears his throat, grabbing at the straps of his backpack, “Hey, uh, sorry to bother you…”

You’d been too engrossed in your book to notice him, and his voice scares you, breaking your concentration. Your head snaps up, eyes wide, and fuck Steve thinks, you’re so pretty. You don’t say anything, though, and Steve realizes you’re waiting for him to continue. He shakes his head to clear it and finally asks, “Sorry, um, is it okay if I sit here?”

“Oh,” some of the concern on your face melts, and you nod, moving your stuff even closer to you, “Yeah, that’s fine.”

Shit. Even your voice is pretty.

“Thanks so much,” Steve smiles, dropping his bag onto the floor as he falls into the seat next to you. You’ve picked up your book again and are about to start reading when Steve begins rambling, “I was going to be early for once, but then my best friend asked for help with the girl she likes, and I didn’t think it would take very long, but I should’ve known. I love Robin, but holy shit she does not know when to stop talking—“

The amused look on your face stops Steve in his tracks, and he realizes the irony of what he’s saying. His face flushes a dark pink and he lifts one hand to scratch at the back of his neck, “Kinda like what I’m doing right now… Shit, I’m sorry. I’ll shut up so you can read.”

Your giggle, while slightly humiliating for Steve, sends his heart racing. He knows he needs to make you laugh again, whatever it takes. That is, if you’re even willing to talk to him again. Luckily for him, you close your fingers in your book to save your place and turn towards him slightly, “It’s okay, I don’t mind. Where are you going?”

“Hawkins. It’s my brother’s birthday, so I’m heading home for the weekend to celebrate with him.”

“That’s so sweet. I’m headed there, too. Visiting family for the weekend.”

Steve is absolutely positive that he’d remember you if you’d gone to high school together, but then again, he was a different person back then. Still, he feels bad as he asks, “Are you from Hawkins? I don’t recognize you…”

You shake your head immediately, “Oh, no — my parents moved there after I left for college. Haven’t been there much, but it’s home now, I guess.”

“Oh thank god,” Steve huffs, “I was worried I’d be an asshole for not remembering you, but I’m not really sure I could forget your face.”

“Yeah?” you ask, a bashful smile tugging at your lips at his implication.

There’s an air of confidence about him— despite the blush once again blooming on his cheeks — that you find insanely attractive as he nods in response, “Yeah, definitely. It’d be hard to forget such a pretty face.” Another laugh from you makes Steve grin, and even though he knows he should let you get back to reading, he asks another question, something about school; anything to keep you talking to him.

By the time the bus pulls into Hawkins, you’ve been talking on and off — mostly on — for most of the trip, and if Steve wasn’t smitten with you before, he definitely is now. Not only are you pretty, but you’re smart and funny, and you’re attending the same school as him. As Steve stands and collects his things to get off the bus, he grows nervous again and gives you a tentative smile, “So, is there any chance I’ll see you again?”

After collecting your own things, you follow Steve down the aisle of the bus, pretending to mull over your answer, “Hmm…” The nervous look on Steve’s face cuts your teasing short, though, and you grin at him, “I’d like that, Steve. I’m guessing we’ll be on the same bus back, but I’ll give you my number, just in case.”

“Okay, great! Hold on, I see my brother’s car, I’ll see if he has a pen,” Steve replies, jogging over to Dustin’s car, hoping desperately that Dustin does, in fact, have something to write with.

And when Steve finally jumps in Dustin’s car with a phone number scribbled on his hand and a grin on his face, Dustin is slightly baffled, “No way you got a number on the bus ride here.”

Steve laughs, shrugging nonchalantly as he punches Dustin’s shoulder gently, “So glad I came home for your birthday, dude.”

[virtchandmoir]

May 10, 2024

“It’s definitely a bit of a rollercoaster. It’s a tour definitely mixed with some reflection of previous tours and how I remember it,” the 33-year-old Chan says on a day off from Toronto, before the SOI cast headed off to Regina for a show on Thursday night. “I saw Scott (Moir) in London, he came to the show … just hugging him and talking with him, I got really emotional for some reason. It brought back a flood of memories of what it was like touring with Scott and what that meant to me. And the memories we made and the things I learned, the stupid things we did … just everything came rushing back. “We went through the juniors together and all the way to the top. I have moments like that where I just reflect and reminisce a lot on how things used to be. But at the same time, I miss my family, I miss my wife (former pairs skater Elizabeth Putnam), I miss (his son) Oliver a lot … I think I’m stepping away at the right time, considering where I am in my life and how hard being away from my son for four weeks has been already. I knew it was never going to be easy; these types of decisions are always tough.” [...] “You know, this cast has changed a lot. It’s been a changing of the guard. I’m the only one left from back when Scott and Tessa were doing tours, and Eric (Redford) and Meagan (Duhamel) … I’m really the only one left. I do feel that. It is a pretty stark reminder every show,” he said. “It’s not such the case now, because everyone is still competing and everyone is younger. I connect the best with Deanna (Stellato-Dudek, the ageless 40-year-old who just won a World pairs title with Maxime Deschamps), actually, because I can just relate to her — we’re in similar places in our lives, and share a similar perspective.” [...] “It taught me the hard work, the dedication, putting your mind to something and finishing it and all that. Most importantly, it taught me how to be a professional, how to carry myself and hold myself to a certain standard. Being around other champions from multiple generations —you’re talking Elvis (Stojko), Kurt, also Scott and Tessa —they were all such successful individuals, but also different,” he said. “But at the end of the day, when it comes to being professional and showing up and doing your job correctly, we held ourselves to that standard. And then being a good person. Knowing when to have fun, when to be serious. And also, how to get through the struggles, how to figure things out when things aren’t clicking at 100 per cent. [...] “I didn’t get to go to university, I didn’t have that key development time (in my life). Scott was my guy, and all these other cast members. Andrew Poje and Eric Radford … all these skaters were more than just my teammates, they were my life and my social circle. It does feel like it’s all coming to an end and it’s weird that Stars is kind of marking that last chapter.” [...] “For me, Halifax always stands out. I always have really fond memories of Halifax, because it would be the end of the season, the weather was changing, and I’d sit by the harbour in Halifax and reflect on the season. And then I’d get really excited about seeing my friends and developing a show together,” he said. “Spending hours together on the ice, but also goofing around and finding that good balance of work and fun. Halifax was just such a great city to start in. And there were the bus rides and traditions that I try to keep going and pass onto the next generation, but I’m finding it harder to (do that). I’m not Scott. I realized that pretty quick.”

—rwbrodiewrites

[theboywithburninghands]

So I finally got it done, yet another Funnybunny piece. the longest one I think. But I have to confess that this one is a little bit lighter on the romance, since I worry a bit about the formula getting stale. But the upside to this is that I actually got to include all six performers this time. This one is more of my own personal headcanons about what kind of music the cast enjoys, but the Funnybunny enthusiasts will get your food if you pay attention throughout and stick around 'til the end. Also it's semi-interactive; there's a ton of links to outside media in the text, and it's all links to music. If a line is underlined, it's a link to a song. Okay, shutting up now, enjoy. The Jitterbug

Dinner time after another adventure. The Performers were all gathered at the table, picking at their food. It was one of the rare moments of awkward silence between the six of them. The adventure that day hadn’t been anything particularly noteworthy… well, for Caine anyway. It was music themed, a romp through a lush theater populated by anthropomorphic instruments. The goal was to track down the six missing members of the grand orchestra and bring them to the stage within an hour long time limit. The intention was to have the group split up and find each band member individually, a plan which would have gone swimmingly if Gangle had been able to persuade her target to return. She found herself too meek to tell the guy to come with her, which, if it hadn’t been for some timely intervention from Jax, may have cost them the adventure. They were “treated” to a performance by the grand orchestra of instrument people, which consisted mostly of improv and a few subpar renditions of classical pieces. They played Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, although they only managed to pull off “Spring” before scrapping the rest for being “too boring” and moving onto an improv piece. Said piece sounded like someone instructed the orchestra to play The William Tell Overture before putting said orchestra on a bus and driving it off a cliff. The performers’ ears were still ringing after the cacophony of noise, and thus weren’t particularly in a conversational mood. 

Gangle: Mmmgh… eh- Gangle appeared to be struggling to hold her fork. There was a crude double knot in her ribbon right about where her hand would be, and it prevented her from gripping her fork hard enough to stab into her digital pot roast. She managed to spear one prong onto a piece of meat, but it fell with an almost comical plop onto the edge of the table before dropping out of sight beneath her chair. Gangle: *whine of defeat* 

Pomni looked at Jax, who was watching Gangle struggle with minor amusement. The purple rabbit met her gaze and his faint smirk disappeared. 

Jax: What?

Pomni: You know what. *she points at him, then at Gangle with her fork*

Jax gave an exaggerated sigh and got out of his chair, slinking to Gangle’s side and taking her ribbon with the knot in it. 

Jax: Hold still, Crybaby. *he takes the knot between his fingers and undoes it*

Gangle: …Uh… thank you, Jax. *she experimentally curls the ribbon around, it’s undamaged*

Pomni: Is there anything else you wanted to say to Gangle?  

Jax: Wanted to say? No. 

Pomni shot him an exasperated glare. Jax sighed and turned back to Gangle without looking her in the eyes. 

Jax: *speaking rapidly and insincerely* Gangle, I’m sorry I used you as rope to tie up the last band member. *looks at Pomni* There, we happy? 

Pomni: Are you okay, Gangle? Gangle: Oh… um… yeah! I’m okay, uh… I-I’ve been in worse… binds. Eheheh… uh… I’m okay. 

Pomni motions Jax back to his seat. The rabbit plods back to his spot at the table and sits, resting his cheek on his hand sullenly and poking at his food. 

Ragatha: Wow… I never thought I’d see the day! Jax actually said sorry! Jax: Yeah, whatever, toots. I save our butts with some quick thinking and I’m still the bad guy. 

Zooble: Don’t be an @$$. There were six of us and one of him. There could’ve been a way to get him back with the others without having to hurt Gangle. 

Jax: Oh really, and what bright idea did you have, Hodge-Podge? *in a babyish voice* Asking him nicewy? Zooble: You wanna lose an eye, limp&!$#?!  *holds up butter knife* 

Ragatha: Guys… *pinching the bridge of her nose*

Pomni: Alright, stop! Can we please just &%$#ing stop?! My ears hurt and I don’t need you two shouting! Just… sit down and shut up. Both of you. 

Zooble: …Tch. Fine. 

Jax: Yeah. White flag or whatever. You hear me? White Flag. *he waves a napkin around half-heartedly before tossing it over his shoulder*

The six performers continued eating in silence, everyone’s mood set right back to bad. However, one of Jax’s ears twitched and his pot roast froze halfway to his mouth. 

Jax: …What’s that? Ragatha: What’s what? 

Jax: Shh! Listen!

Everyone, sans Kinger, stopped eating and listened. There was a continuous but very faint sound coming from somewhere. 

Gangle: I-I hear it! It sounds like… music?

Zooble: Good music. Like an orchestra. 

Ragatha: Where’s it coming from?

The performers turned their heads to better locate where the pleasant song was coming from. After a couple of seconds of listening, their eyes all fell upon Kinger, who was still eating his dinner. He froze in the middle of cutting his pork chop and slowly looked up to meet everyone’s gaze.

Kinger: I’m being observed… 

Jax: It’s cuz you’re making music.

Kinger: I’m not making music. I’m eating dinner. 

Ragatha: No, Jax is right, Kinger. Do you have something in your robe? 

Kinger looked down at his robes and patted around inside them. He froze when he felt a foreign object clinging to the white inside and pulled it out. Inside his robes was a creature about the size of a baseball, that looked like a mix between a ladybug and the grille of a microphone. The orchestral score emanating from the creature reached a swell before suddenly-

Bug: LOOK! YO!-

Kinger yelped and dropped the creature as it suddenly exploded into a rap verse. It lands on the table and stands back up, bopping along to the rhythm of the song playing from its grille-like carapace. 

Zooble: What the #%!! is that thing? 

Kinger: Oh! I remember you! *reaches his hand out to pet the small creature* I put her in my robes back at the theater. 

Pomni: I guess Caine missed deleting it when he sent us back here for the night… 

Kinger: She’s not an it! Her name is… *there’s a drawn-out pause as Kinger struggles to remember what he called the creature* ...Layla!

Upon hearing this, the microphone-bug suddenly plays a guitar riff that makes everyone jump. Ragatha: I know that song… *beams* That’s a REAL song! From outside! It’s by uh- 

Zooble: Hang on. This thing plays-

Kinger: Layla.

Zooble: …Layla plays music? 

Pomni: That’s… I thought that was impossible… 

Gangle suddenly appeared beside Kinger, moving quicker than anyone had ever seen her move before. 

Gangle: Layla! Play uh, play… Play Melt by Hatsune Miku!

Jax: Play what by who?

The microphone-bug, which was apparently named Layla, began to play a sugary-sweet J-pop song, quiet at first before bursting to life. Gangle stood and watched the creature with a twinkle in the eyes of her mask, her mouth wide open in delight and her ribbon-hands on her cheeks. 

Ragatha: Oh, oh! Can I have a turn? Uh, Layla, play Respect by Aretha Franklin! 

Layla began to play a funky soul song, Ragatha giggling girlishly and beginning to dance along to the rhythm on the spot. Her energy was so infectious that the other performers couldn’t help but watch, especially as she began to lip-sync to the song with an invisible microphone. 

Gangle: giggles 

Jax: My turn. Layla! Play… Sandstorm by Darude. 

Everyone gave a collective groan as Layla began playing a familiar Finnish techno beat. 

Jax: Whaaat? I like this song! You guys have no taste. 

Ragatha: Well, you picked it! Now you gotta dance to it! Come on!

Jax: No I- HEY! 

Ragatha grabbed Jax’s hands and pulled him up onto his feet. 

Ragatha: Come on! Follow my lead! 

Ragatha began to dance along with the music, Jax scoffed and crossed his arms.

Pomni: *trying not to giggle* You made your bed Jax, time to lay in it.

Jax: Oh, have I? Layla, play Everywhere at The End of Time.

Zooble: Ew, Jax, what the h€!!? 

Kinger scooped Layla up before she could begin playing the six-hour depressing behemoth of an album Jax requested. 

Kinger: Everyone, stop! You’re going to make her overheat! *he pets the little microphone bug* There, there, you did good. 

Gangle: Aw, is it over..?

Zooble: Kinger’s got a point. We don’t want to push that thing’s-

Kinger: Layla.

Zooble: -Layla’s processing too hard. You know how weird NPC’s get when they’re overclocked. 

Pomni: Overclocked..? What does- Actually, I don’t want to know.

Kinger: Layla can stay in my room. I have other bugs in there so she won’t get lonely.

Jax: So Kinger just gets to keep the thing that plays real music in his room? 

Kinger: Layla.

Jax: Whatever.

Ragatha: Well, he did find her… and he did go through all the effort of sneaking her back to the tent. That would make her his.

Jax: So if I found a dozen donuts, I’d get to eat all of ‘em and not share, since they’re my donuts. 

Zooble: You’d probably do that anyway…

Jax: I’d share ‘em with everyone but you, Zooble.

Gangle: I’d get a donut, really? 

Pomni yanked on one of Jax’s shoulder straps, a sharp reminder to behave.

Pomni: I’m sure Kinger wouldn’t mind sharing Layla now and then. Is that okay with you, Kinger?

Kinger: Don’t eat her! *holds her away from Pomni*

Pomni: Wh- nobody is going to eat her!

Gangle: Layla isn’t a donut… 

Kinger: Oh. Well. Maybe. As long as you’re gentle with her and don’t let her overheat. 

Ragatha: We can all promise that, right everybody? 

There was a murmur of affirmation, but then everyone looked at Jax. 

Jax: Oh for- *sigh* fine. Yes. I won’t hurt the bug thing.

Kinger: Layla.

Jax: *deep breath, phony enthusiasm* LaYlA!

Ragatha: I’ve gotta say, that’s the most fun I’ve had in a while. Real fun, not Caine fun.

Zooble: I didn’t peg you for an Aretha Franklin fan, Rags.

Ragatha: Yeah? What kind of music did you think I liked? *smiles, amused*

Zooble: I dunno. Sara Bareilles or Taylor Swift. Maybe that song Wildfire. 

Ragatha: Oh, so horse girl stuff, huh? I see how it is, Zooble. *she’s still grinning playfully* 

Jax: We didn’t get to hear what you liked, Hodge-Podge. Who are you to judge? 

Zooble: Call me Hodge-Podge again, Jax, and I’ll tie your- 

Kinger: Frank Sinatra…

Zooble: Huh?

Kinger: That’s my favorite. Frank Sinatra. *he sings a little to Layla* “I’ve got you… under my skin.”

Layla: *Playing a snippet from the real song* “I’ve got you… deep in the heart of me.”

Gangle: Awwww…

Zooble: *they get up* I’m tired. I’ll see you all in the morning. *they walk towards backstage before pausing for a moment* …I like Janelle Monáe by the way. 

Ragatha: G’night Zooble. It is getting pretty late… I’ll be right behind you. 

Steadily, the performers left the stage and headed back to their rooms. Pomni left not long after Ragatha, rubbing her eyes. It was weird how her eyelids still felt heavy despite her body being a bunch of pixels… 

She wished Ragatha good night as she passed her in the hallway, went into her bedroom and flopped onto the bed. It had been a pretty bad day, like most other days in this technicolor hell. But it had an okay conclusion. It was nice to hear real music again, but she wished she had gotten a turn. Although,  she did wonder a little… if that bug could play songs from the outside world, maybe there was a way to get out of here after all… 

There was a knock at the door. One thing at a time. Pomni rolled out of bed and shuffled to the door to open it. She smiled a little seeing Jax leaning against the doorframe, and the rabbit gave her a smarmy grin right back.

Jax: Leavin’ me behind, huh? Pretty cold, Pompom. 

Pomni: You’re a big boy. You can handle being alone for a little bit. Also, you’re knocking now. 

Jax: You should note the date and time. *he strolls into her room* So, what’s the plan tonight, Pomni? 

Pomni: I’m too tired for much of anything… you wanna just cuddle? 

Jax: Sure. But how about a little music? *he takes Layla out of the front pocket of his overalls*

Pomni: Jax! Where did you get- did you steal her from Kinger? 

Jax: You’ll be happy to know I asked before I took. *he sets Layla on top of one of the oversized building blocks in Pomni’s room* 

Pomni: R-Really? He actually let you borrow her? How did you convince him..?

Jax: You really think I can’t be charming? You fell for me, didn’t you?

Pomni: *blush* …Alright, alright. 

The two of them crawled into bed, climbing under the covers, Pomni scooting her smaller frame backwards into Jax’s arms. The rabbit held her close, resting his chin on top of her head.  

Jax: So. Whatcha wanna listen to?

Pomni: …You know what? You can go first. 

[flowerznleaves]

Day off in love | shinez

a/n: this is my first work in tumblr. I have dabbled on ao3 before but decided to change it up. this story will be told in 2 parts, finishing after the day off season 4 series is done! thank you for supporting!

Pairing: shinez | kazuha x yunjin

>wc: 1.9k

sypnosis: Le Sserafim has a much needed day off in a secluded cabin. Kazuha and Yunjin struggle to conceal their affection amidst the watchful eyes of their members. Eager for stolen moments of intimacy, they navigate the delicate balance of their hidden relationship while endeavoring to maintain the facade of camaraderie.

PART 1

As the members stepped out of their shared tour bus, tucked away in the woods, they all breathed a collective sigh of relief, their weary expressions softening as they took in the peaceful surroundings. The scent of pine trees filled the air, mingling with the crisp mountain breeze, offering a welcome escape from their busy schedules.

Yunjin's eyes sparkled with excitement, surveying their temporary retreat, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Ah," she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder. "You can see the stars so clearly."

Kazuha nodded in agreement, her gaze flickering to Yunjin with a hint of warmth before approaching the guesthouse.. "It has a great ambience," she replied, her voice soft with appreciation. 

Kazuha was the first to notice the comfortable sofa tucked near the fireplace. “Wow, this sofa! It’s so comfy!" Kazuha exclaimed, sinking into the plush cushions with a contented sigh. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she glanced over at Yunjin, who was standing nearby, distracted by something in her hands.

Yunjin quickly caught Kazuha's gaze and a knowing smile spread across her lips. Without hesitation, she abandoned whatever had captured her attention and gracefully made her way to the sofa, sitting down with her book next to Kazuha.

“Wow! I’d love to have one of these in my room!” Yunjin remarked, sinking into the cushions. She let out a soft sigh of contentment as she nestled into the plush upholstery, her muscles relaxing against the support.

Kazuha couldn't help but smile at the sight of Yunjin getting comfortable beside her. It was rare to see Yunjin let her guard down like this, and Kazuha cherished these moments when they could simply be themselves, away from the pressures of their public personas.

As the rest of the members continued exploring the cabin, Kazuha and Yunjin shared a secret moment on the cozy sofa.

"Isn't it just perfect?" Kazuha said, casting a sideways glance at Yunjin. "I could sit here all day."

Yunjin nodded in agreement, her eyes drifting closed momentarily as she savored the tranquility of the moment. "It's like a little slice of paradise," she murmured, a serene expression gracing her features.

After a moment of silence, Yunjin turned towards Kazuha with a mischievous glance. "Wow, this really is comfy," Yunjin replied, her voice low as she leaned in closer to Kazuha, making sure to look around the room before continuing . "Almost as comfy as being with you."

Kazuha's cheeks flushed at Yunjin's words, a mixture of excitement and nervousness bubbling within her. She leaned in closer, her lips almost brushing against Yunjin's ear as she whispered, "I know a few things that are even more comfortable."

Yunjins' breath caught in her throat at the implication, and a mischievous glint danced in her eyes. "Do you now?" she whispered back, her voice filled with playful anticipation.

Yunjin's cheeks flushed at the suggestion, her heart fluttering with anticipation as she caught the playful glint in Kazuha's eyes. "I like the sound of that," she replied with a teasing grin, her voice dropping to a suggestive whisper.

Their members exchanged curious glances as they caught sight of Yunjin and Kazuha's whispered conversation, their eyebrows raising in silent inquiry. Chaewon leaned in closer to Eunchae, her voice low and conspiratorial.

"I wonder what those two are up to," she murmured, her tone tinged with amusement. "They've been acting awfully secretive lately."

Eunchae nodded in agreement, a mischievous smile playing at her lips. "I don't know, but I have a feeling they're hiding something," she replied with a giggle, her voice filled with playful speculation.

Sakura glanced over at Yunjin and Kazuha with a curious expression, her heart fluttering with curiosity. "Well, as long as they're enjoying themselves," she said with a smile, her voice warm with affection.

And as they settled into their cozy cabin, laughter and light-hearted banter filled the air, Yunjin and Kazuha shared stolen glances and secret smiles, their love a silent melody weaving through the fabric of their shared moments.

﹋﹋

The members were lounging around the table relaxing after a delicious dinner. Stomachs happy and content with a meal only a true day off can serve them. Kazuha and Yunjin, still seated at the table, shared a mischievous glance.

"I just want to walk a little bit. Will you explore with me?" Kazuha suggested, her voice laced with hidden meaning.

"Sure," Yunjin replied with a smile, understanding Kazuha's true intentions. "Let's go." 

As the two made their way towards the door, the rest of the members exchanged knowing looks.

"Do those two really think they are being subtle at all ," Chaewon remarked, her voice laced with amusement. "I wonder what's going on between them."

"I have no idea, but it's definitely something," Sakura replied with a smile. "It's kind of cute, though."

Outside, the air was crisp and cool, and the moon was shining brightly. The trees were bathed in the soft glow of the early evening light, and a sense of tranquility hung in the air. Kazuha and Yunjin walked along a dirt path, their fingers intertwined.

"This place is so beautiful," Kazuha murmured, her voice tinged with awe.

"It really is," Yunjin agreed, a smile playing at her lips as she took in the scenic surroundings.

Yunjin turned to Kazuha, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

"I think we should explore some more, somewhere away from the cameras maybe" she said, her voice low and husky.

Kazuha blushed, her heart fluttering with anticipation as they realized Yunjin's true intentions.

"I think you’re onto something there," she replied, a playful grin spreading across her face.

The two made their way to a secluded area of the grounds, hidden away from the rest of the world.

As they entered the clearing, a sense of peace settled over them, and they felt a strong connection to the nature surrounding them.

"It's so quiet here," Yunjin remarked, her voice filled with wonder. "It's almost like we're the only two people in the world."

"I know," Kazuha replied, her heart swelling with emotion. "It's so peaceful and beautiful."

The two stood in silence, basking in the serenity of the moment. Then, Yunjin turned to Kazuha, her gaze intense.

"I've been thinking about you all day," she murmured, her voice low and seductive.

Kazuha's breath caught in her throat, her heart racing as she took in Yunjin's words.

"Me too," she replied, her voice filled with longing.

Yunjin stepped closer to Kazuha, the electricity between them palpable.

"I can't wait any longer," she breathed, her lips mere inches from Kazuha's.

Kazuha's body trembled with anticipation, her pulse racing.

"Me neither," she murmured, closing the gap between them and bringing their lips together in a tender kiss.

As their lips touched, a jolt of electricity shot through both of them, and a wave of emotion washed over them.

They were both lost in a haze of lust, desire pooling in the pit of their stomachs as the kiss intensified.

They broke apart for a moment, then came together again, their passion escalating as their kisses grew more desperate.

At that moment, Eunchae, wandering through the woods, had been searching for Yunjin and Kazuha. She had expected to find them lost in a game of hide-and-seek or perhaps mauled by a bear. What she didn't expect was stumbling upon them tangled together in a mess of teeth and tongues.

Her eyes widened as she took in the sight before her,

Eunchae stood frozen, feeling like an intruder on a scene meant only for them. She blinked several times, as if trying to convince herself that what she was seeing was real. Finally, she cleared her throat, breaking the spell they were under.

"Um... I... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt," Eunchae stammered, cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

Yunjin and Kazuha broke apart, looking equally flustered. "Eunchae!" Yunjin exclaimed, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red that matched her hair.

Kazuha scratched the back of her head, sheepishly avoiding Eunchae's gaze. "Hey, uh... this is not what it looks like…” Eunchae couldn't help but laugh at their awkwardness. “Please, I don’t want to know. Now, don't let me interrupt any further," she teased, turning to leave them to their moment and dashing back inside the cabin.

Chaewon noticed Eunchae's troubled expression immediately. "Hey, Eunchae, what's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost," she remarked, concerned about lacing her voice.

Sakura, ever perceptive, glanced up from where she was arranging her knitting supplies. "Yeah, you seem a little off. Did something happen out there?" she asked, her brows furrowing in worry. 

Eunchae forced a smile, trying to push aside the image of Yunjin and Kazuha from her mind. "Oh, it's nothing, just got a bit lost in the woods," she replied, shrugging off their concern.

Chaewon and Sakura exchanged a skeptical glance, clearly not buying her explanation. "Are you sure? You seem more flustered than usual," Chaewon pointed out, her brow furrowing with concern.

Sakura nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and your cheeks are a bit flushed. Are you feeling okay?"

Eunchae shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of her secret pressing down on her. "I'm fine, really. Just got a bit too much sun at the amusement park today, I guess," she muttered, avoiding their gazes.

As Kazuha and Yunjin returned to the cabin, the other members were waiting for them, their expressions filled with curiosity.

"Where have you two been?" Chaewon asked, her voice laced with amusement.

Yunjin and Kazuha exchanged a knowing glance, their cheeks flushed with a faint blush.

"Just exploring the grounds," Yunjin replied, her tone nonchalant. Her eyes met with Eunchae, but quickly averted her gaze, writing down a reminder in her head to talk to the maknae later on.

"Really?" Chaewon asked, her gaze narrowing as she studied the pair. "You seem awfully...close."

Kazuha blushed deeper, their embarrassment growing as the others stared at them with interest.

"Yeah, well, it's not like we were doing anything...bad," Yunjin muttered, her cheeks burning.

Sakura chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Come on, let’s go to the backyard," Sakura said, her tone reassuring. She knew not to push her friends into a conversation they weren’t ready to have.

As the girls stepped out onto the cabin's porch and caught sight of the backyard adorned with a desert table and a crackling fire pit, Kazuha couldn't help but exclaim, "Wow, it's so pretty!" Her eyes sparkled with appreciation as she scanned the scene.

Yunjin's excitement bubbled over as she exclaimed, "They prepared it for us!" Her gratitude warmed her voice, reflecting the feeling of being valued by their managers.

"There's even chocolate!" Chaewon exclaimed, eagerly tearing open the s'mores package. With a mischievous grin, she skewered her first marshmallow and held it over the flames, inviting the others to join in.

As the marshmallows began to brown and melt, filling the air with their sweet aroma, the members laughed and joked with each other, enjoying this unexpected moment of relaxation amidst their busy schedules.

﹋﹋

Later on, the building adjacent to the shared house buzzed with excitement as the members prepared for Sakura's birthday live stream. Cameras were set up, decorations adorned the room, and a table filled with delectable treats awaited their audience's virtual celebration.

Yunjin and Kazuha, their hearts still fluttering from the close call that evening, exchanged nervous glances as they took their places in front of the camera. The air crackled with anticipation, the excitement palpable as they greeted their fans who had tuned in from around the world.

As the live stream commenced, the members shared stories and laughter, their camaraderie shining through the screen. But amidst the joyous celebration, a playful comment from one of their fans caught Kazuha off guard.

"Please kiss" the comment read, accompanied by a string of playful emojis.

Kazuha's cheeks flushed crimson with embarrassment as she listened to Chaewon read the comment aloud, her heart pounding in her chest. She stole a quick glance at Yunjin, who met her gaze with a reassuring smile, but the fear of exposure gnawed at her insides.

"Who?" Kazuha stammered, her words faltering as she struggled to find a response. In her flustered state, a sudden jolt of her hand caused Kazuha to accidentally knock over the coffee cup next to her, sending a cascade of coffee spilling onto Yunjin's lap.

Gasps of shock echoed through the room as Yunjin jumped up in surprise, her eyes wide with disbelief as the liquid seeped through her clothes. Kazuha couldn't help but burst into laughter, apologizing profusely as she scrambled to grab napkins, her hands shaking with amusement and remorse.

Yunjin, though initially startled, couldn't help but burst into laughter at the absurdity of the situation. With a mischievous grin, she turned her attention to the live stream viewers with mock severity "If you say such dangerous comments" she exclaimed, “It will cause an accident. This is your responsibility”. 

Meanwhile, Kazuha, still flustered, tried to salvage the moment with a sheepish grin. "Don’t be too flabbergasted" she joked, earning a chorus of chuckles from her members.

With the tension diffused and everyone in high spirits, the birthday celebration continued with even more laughter and joy. And as they toasted to Sakura's special day, Kazuha couldn't help but feel grateful for her member's ability to turn even the most embarrassing mishaps into unforgettable memories.

﹋﹋

After the night has settled down and games were played amongst the girls, Yunjin and Kazuha exchanged subtle glances across the room, their hearts fluttering with the anticipation of stealing away for some much-needed alone time.

Yunjin leaned in close to Kazuha, her voice a soft whisper in the midst of the lively conversation. "I think now might be our chance to sneak away," she murmured, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Kazuha's cheeks flushed with excitement as she caught Yunjin's meaning, her heart racing with anticipation. "I couldn't agree more," she replied with a playful grin, her voice barely above a breath.

Sakura, Chaewon, and Eunchae were engrossed in a game, but Kazuha caught their attention with a coy smile. "Hey, guys," she called out, trying to sound casual but failing miserably, "we kinda left something super important in my room. Mind if we dash off to grab it?"

Sakura raised an eyebrow, her gaze shifting from the game to Kazuha with a knowing smirk. "Sure thing," she replied, her tone dripping with teasing mischief as if she was about to spill the juiciest gossip of the century.

Chaewon, never one to miss a beat, chimed in, "Yeah, what's the rush? We're about to see who's the true champion here," she said, a competitive glint in her eye as if she was preparing for battle.

Kazuha's grin widened, trying her best to keep her cool under the intense scrutiny of her friends. "Oh, you know, I just remembered I left... um, my lucky socks in my room," she improvised, mentally patting herself on the back for the brilliant cover-up.

Yunjin nodded in agreement, playing her part in the impromptu charade. "Yeah, can't win without them and we all know that Kazuha isn’t the best observer." she added, trying to keep a straight face while internally laughing at the absurdity of their excuse.

Sakura raised an eyebrow, a knowing smirk playing on her lips. "Sure, sure," she replied with a wink, exchanging a knowing look with Chaewon and Eunchae.

As Kazuha and Yunjin hurriedly tiptoed down the hallway, attempting to maintain an air of stealth, away from the cameras. Their mission was immediately compromised by their own clumsiness.

Yunjin, in her haste, accidentally bumped into a decorative vase, sending it teetering precariously on the edge of a table. With wide eyes and a frantic gesture, she barely managed to catch it before it crashed to the ground, letting out a nervous laugh.

Kazuha, meanwhile, tried to navigate the maze of furniture like a ninja on a mission, but ended up tripping over a stray rug and stumbling forward with an undignified yelp. "Who put this here?!" she exclaimed, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she regained her balance.

Their fumbled attempts at stealth only made them giggle even harder, their laughter echoing through the hallway like a pair of mischievous sprites causing chaos in their wake.

Finally reaching Kazuha's room, they collapsed against the door in fits of laughter, their breathless giggles mingling with the sounds of their friends' distant chatter.

As soon as they were out of earshot, Chaewon arched an eyebrow in amusement, her lips curling into a sly smile. "Well, well, well," she drawled, leaning in conspiratorially, "How stupid do they think we are."

Eunchae's gaze followed their retreating figures, a knowing smirk tugging at her lips. "I wonder what they're really up to in there," she mused, her tone suggesting she was onto something juicy.

Sakura chuckled softly, but there was a hint of suspicion in her voice. "I'm sure they're just enjoying some alone time," she said, though her eyes betrayed a flicker of doubt.

Chaewon raised an eyebrow, her grin widening. "Alone time, huh? More like 'hide and seek' time," she quipped, her tone laced with playful skepticism.

Eunchae nodded in agreement, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Yeah, they're definitely not just taking a nap," she chimed in, her voice filled with knowing amusement.

It became increasingly clear that Kazuha and Yunjin's secret might not be so secret after all.

"It's nice to finally have a moment alone with you," Kazuha confessed, her voice soft and filled with warmth.

Yunjin returned Kazuha's smile, her eyes twinkling with adoration. "I've been looking forward to this all night," she admitted, her voice gentle and full of love.

With a shy yet eager energy, Kazuha reached out, taking Yunjin's hand in hers. Their fingers intertwined effortlessly, as they lingered near the door of the now closed bedroom.

As they gazed into each other's eyes, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in their own little bubble of affection.

With a soft laugh, Yunjin leaned in closer, her breath mingling with Kazuha's. "I missed you," she whispered, her words barely a breath against Kazuha's lips.

"Then come here," Kazuha whispered. She reached out and pulled Yunjin closer, their bodies pressed together in a tender meeting.

As their lips moved together in a sweet and unhurried dance, Yunjin couldn’t help but feel a twinge of worry. “Kazuha,” she whispered softly between kisses, her voice laced with uncertainty, “Do you think we are being too…obvious?”

Kazuha’s response was a murmured hum of contentment as she deepened the kiss, her fingers tangling in Yunjin’s hair as she pulled her closer. “I don’t really care.” With a low moan of pleasure, her hands wander eagerly over Yunjin’s body.

Yunjin giggled with pleasure, her smile radiating an infectious warmth. "Oh, I like the way you think," she murmured, her voice thick with desire as she leaned forward to meet Kazuha's hungry kiss.

Their lips met in a rush of heat and fire, their bodies molding together as they wrapped their arms around each other, desperate for skin on skin contact.

"I want you so bad," Kazuha whispered against Yunjin's lips, her voice filled with desperate need.

"Then take me," Yunjin breathlessly whispered back, boldness reflected in her eyes.

Kazuha's hand snaked its way up Yunjin's shirt, her fingers caressing soft skin.

The other girl moaned softly, her body responding to Kazuha's touch.

"Oh, Zuha," Yunjin breathed. "That feels so good."

The ballerina smiled, her fingers exploring Yunjin's body, eliciting soft moans and gasps of pleasure.

"I love you, Yunjin," Kazuha murmured, her voice low and seductive. "I want to make you feel good."

"I love you too," Yunjin said, her voice full of passion and desire.

Kazuha's hands reached up and began to pull at the clasps of Yunjin's shirt, exposing more and more of her pale skin.

Yunjin giggled as Kazuha's nimble fingers fumbled with the clasp of her bra, struggling to undo the fastener.

"It's hard to do when you are so distracting," Kazuha complained.

Yunjin grinned and then leaned in, giving Kazuha a slow, passionate kiss. "Is that better?" she asked, her voice a husky whisper.

Kazuha laughed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Yes." She turned her attention back to the task at hand, finally managing to undo the clasp of Yunjin's bra. She pulled the lacy garment away from Yunjin's body, revealing her ample chest.

As Kazuha and Yunjin were lost in their heated moment, a sudden knock on the door jolted them back to reality. They exchanged a glance of surprise, wondering who could be interrupting their precious alone time.

Kazuha hesitated, reluctantly pulling away from Yunjin's curious hands to answer the door. With a deep breath, she opened it to find Chaewon standing there, a slightly harried expression on her face.

"Hey, Kazuha, Yunjin," Chaewon greeted them, her voice tinged with urgency. "Sorry to disturb you, but the managers just called. They need both of you to come out and get your swimsuits on. The hot tub out back is ready for us to use.” She made a vague hand gesture in the direction of the two girls, “So please wrap up whatever it is you are doing here.” 

Kazuha's heart sank at the thought of their alone time being cut short, but she quickly put on a smile to mask her disappointment. "Sure, Chaewon, we'll be right out," she replied, trying to sound as cheerful as possible.

Yunjin, too, tried to hide her disappointment. "Yeah, we'll be there in a minute," she added, her voice betraying a hint of reluctance from behind the door.

Chaewon nodded in understanding, oblivious to the hidden dynamics at play. "Great, thanks," she said with a relieved smile before turning to leave.

As the door closed behind Chaewon, Kazuha and Yunjin exchanged a look of disappointment, knowing that their precious alone time had been cut short once again.

[professorhex]

Thinking about a modern Draco and Hermione. It’s raining, the pavement reflecting the streetlights of a bustling Friday night.

Draco spots Hermione from his car. She’s struggling to keep her umbrella open from the wind. Pinching his nose, he wonders if he’ll regret his actions. He puts his signal light on, pulling over to the side.

Hermione cautiously watches the blackened window of the silver car lower. Her hand ready to pull her wand if necessary.

“No need for hostility, Granger,” Draco says cooly. The lock of the passenger door pops up. Hermione furrows her brows. “Don’t tell me you don’t know how to open a car door.”

“Of course I do. I’m just wondering why you’re offering it to me. We don’t exactly get along.”

“It’s pouring, what is it you muggles say, ‘rats and frogs’?’”

“It’s cats and dogs.”

“Just get in the bloody car!”

Hermione stared him down. He hadn’t changed much since Hogwarts. His hair was a little longer, the lines around his eyes wore heavy, as if he had the weight of the world on his shoulders. For a moment she wondered—

“Are you getting in the car or not?!”

Typical bastard.

“I’ll take my chances with Poseidon.”

“Fine!” He shouted. He mumbled something under his breath, no doubt a dig about her muggle ways. With a rev of the engine, the sedan drives off.

“Fucking prat,” she grumbled.

Hermione heaved her work bag back on her shoulder and made her way to the bus stop shelter.

The smooth rumble caught her attention.

Mouth agape, she watched the same silver sedan back up right to her spot at the bus stop.

The black window rolled down.

“Get in the damn car, Granger.”

The heat blasting from the safety of—safety? Never in all her years did she think she’d associate a Malfoy with safety.

Hermione juggled her things and got into the car. The warmth wrapping around her like the tea her mother used to make at Christmas.

She watched as he rolled the window up. A silence fell between them, the radio playing a delicate song in the background.

The sliver of skin peaking through his black button down caught her eye. Draco could feel her eyes on him. If he wasn’t so annoyed at her stubbornness he’d welcome the attention. Even if it was that know it all Granger.

“Normally I don’t mind ogling, however I’d like to not obliviate a police officer again—”

“—again?”

“…never mind that, put your seatbelt on!”

Hermione reached for the seatbelt, locking it into place. There was no turning back now. She didn’t know if the heat from the car or from watching him put the car into gear and turn the wheel with the heel of his hand, made her stomach turn over on itself.

“Thank you,” she mumbled watching the lights she normally passed by slowly on the bus ride home.

“You’re welcome Granger.”

[c-bush]

Part 1: TW: Overstimulation/meltdown, mild bullying, purging, and brief moment of self-harm

The last few weeks have been straining Hazel. For weeks, all she’s really worried about are her GSCE scores. She’s been up countless nights, which haven’t felt good on not only her mind but her senses. What once she could overlook, the smell of pasta being cooked, the cheering of her dads of a Rugby team, and the tags on her clothes seemed strenuous. Walking down the stairs, Charlie and Nick were already up, drinking tea and eating biscuits at the table. Hazel finally entered, wearing her uniform which felt all of the sudden itchy and tight on her. It was odd because up until now she was able to tolerate it, but this felt overwhelming. The smell of the crumpets and honeytickled her nose as she backed away from the kitchen. Nick seemed to notice and went to her instantly, keeping his distance as to not alarm her.

“Morning darling, did you sleep well last night?” He asked, trying to steady her. It took her a moment to register what the question was and her mouth tried to speak but it couldn’t find the right words so all she did was nod. Her red/brown hair bouncing along with her head as she looked at the crumpets lying on the plate. She took one and popped it into her mouth. The buttery goodness landed on her mouth as she took her time eating, picking at her sleeve each bite she took. Charlie took note as he stood up, offering her another one to which resulted in her shaking her head no and continued with the crumpet she had now.

“So you get your GSCEs back yet? Remember, it’s okay. Those tests aren’t easy and-“ Nick tried to comfort, which made her stop eating, putting down the half-eaten crumpet and back away.

“I have to get to school. Results are in and I…I…I…” Struggling to find the words, she pinched the top of her hand, quick little flicks. She wasn’t good at hiding her emotions, but has gotten better in attempting to use coping mechanisms to try and comfort herself. Charlie went over to her side as not to touch her so she wouldn’t have a meltdown. Hazel saw this and backed away, everything spiraling in front of her.

“Honey, we’ve been worried about you. If there’s anything you need to talk about, just know we’ll be here. Is there anything you want to talk about, don’t be-“ Charlie started, rubbing the front of his hand up and down her back to which she backed away, quickly grabbing her backpack, remaining crumpet, and darted off to the bus. The door slamming as Charlie winced at the noise and Nick going to him, concerned.

“The GSCEs are really taking a toll on her, haven’t they? I mean…I didn’t want to make her build walls, but she’s not been eating a lot lately. I know you don’t want to hear this but I think Hazel needs help.” Nick confronted softly with Charlie looking out the window, not wanting to face the truth about what was going on with his daughter.

“I know but if she does have an eating disorder, I’d rather it come from her than us telling her. You remember how I was when I was younger? I don’t want her to feel that she can’t come to us and have those control issues I have, well still working on.” Charlie replied with Nick nodding. The clock rang about 8:00 which Charlie covered his ears with Nick comforting him.

“I hate that clock, the sound makes my ears bleed. I want to get rid of it!” Charlie yelled, racing to the clock in an attempt to take it down, which Nick stopped him, grabbing him by both hands so he didn’t hit his head or pull his hair out. Brushing his dark hair, Nick guided Charlie through multiple deep breaths. Charlie didn’t engage at first as his eyes were still set on the clock but was able to focus once he took a few deep breath, his focus back on his husband, Nick.

“It’s okay, I’ll take it down today and you go to work. After your shift, we can call Geoffrey and see who he recommends. Sound like a plan?” Nick planned out, mapping each step so he would be on board to which Charlie nodded and planted Nick with a kiss. He grabbed his bag and out of the door as he went to work as a security guard. It worked out for the best as Charlie was detail-oriented and he could stare at the paintings and he didn’t have to work through the night so he could help Nick with Hazel if there was ever a meltdown/overstimulation episode, he’d know what to do as he was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome the same time as Hazel was. Nick stared out the window and sighed as he cleaned the kitchen and began his working at home schedule as a Rugby coordinator.

At Higgs, Hazel was walking into the academy. The amount of talking, smells, and coolness made her brain go numb. She felt tears coming out of her eyes as she walked around, her stomach turning against the crumpet and before she knew it, she darted for the toilet, hoping one would become available. She waited for thirty seconds before swinging into one and locking the door. She bent down, thinking about what she was about to do and put her index finger to her mouth and forced the crumpet she had just eaten out of her mouth. It took a while before she saw the bits and pieces of chewed up crumpet onto the toilet. She cried a little, wiping the sweat she had with some toilet paper. Her stomach shifted and more liquid came out of her, resulting in last nights dinner of Shepard’s pie which despite not eating a lot of, the mashed potato’s, peas, and beef all came out of her. Her skin once cool and chilled now was heating with sweat and vomit with her throat red from the purge. She wiped her mouth some more, finished her purging, flushed the toilet, and went to wash her hands, the lavender soap tickling her nose and the slamming bathroom door overwhelmed her ears. The one day she didn’t bring her AirPods or noise-cancelling headphones, she needed them the most. She washed her mouth with a mint and drank the sink water to try and cover some of the vomit odor her mouth was salivating in. Taking a few deep breaths, she darted to class. Ignoring the other girls and into the form where she sat normally. Her stomach lurched with pain and anxiety. Some girls were so excited about the GSCEs while others looked like they would have a mental breakdown. Hazel was in that category, pinching her hand which was now red as the bell rang, hurting her ears as she attempted not to cry with the teacher settling down the students.

“Alright everybody! Now today is a special day because you will be getting your GSCE scores. This process will be easy as they will be emailed to you with your certificate and your grades. I know this has been a trying few weeks, but no matter what happens I want to say that I am proud of each and every one of you and that these scores do not hold as reflection to me as students. Trust me, no one will be going to the Thinning, you all live!” Ms. Barrow said with everyone laughing except Hazel, who was raising her hand. Ms. Barrow looked at her and called on her.

“Yes, Ms. Nelson-Spring what is it?” Ms. Barrow lightly said with Hazel taking a deep breath and pinching her leg with one arm.

“Are you…are you suggesting that we would’ve died if we didn’t pass? The Thinning, what…what’s the Thinning and why didn’t anyone tell me?!” Hazel panicked, her eyes glazing over her with fellow girls laughing and whispering to one another. Hazel didn’t seem to get the memo. Her skin crawling, her face getting hot and hot each second she was in that classroom.

“What! What am I missing” Hazel yelled.

“The Thinning isn’t real, you thick baboon! It’s an American horror movie.” Amelia sneered as Hazel took deep breaths, tears falling from her face faster than Hazel could wipe them.

“That’s enough Ms. Woods. It’s alright, Ms. Nelson-Spring, everything is okay.” Ms. Woods scolded/comforted with her going back to the board to give new information out. Hazel couldn’t stop thinking about the comment and how she missed the joke. Sure it wasn’t a black and white joke, but still it was embarrassing and her stomach felt turned inside out. Trying to concentrate on the lesson in Shakespeare. However, the thought of her GSCE was something she couldn’t get out of her mind. The clock was ticking slower and slower each minute she was in the room. The minute the bell rang, she packed her stuff up and bolted out of there. Ignoring the teacher’s call for her to come back. She couldn’t focus on any voices as they all meshed into one. The uniform was getting tighter and tighter until she felt that she was suffocating. Despite being at Higgs for a few years, she felt like a stranger in her own school. It was devastating as the pinching became worse, the front of her hand was getting red and noticeable to others. It all culminated when she got a ping on her phone. She grabbed it and the subject line said GSCE results. Shaking as she opened the email, ignoring the other lines as she scrolled quickly to a PDF which gave the subject and the grades.

Art and Design: Fine Art-8

English Literature-8

French-4

History-4

Mathematics-4

Performing Arts: Musical Theatre Pathway-8

Music-8

Science-2

Looking at the science grade, Hazel’s heart dropped. She didn’t understand where she went wrong. She studied constantly and went to extra tutoring sessions every opportunity she got. She’d let her parents down with this one score and she couldn’t cope. Her heart beat so loud as some other girl looked down on the screen.

“What a shame! You have to take Science again, what a pity! See ya loser!” She sneered while others laughed and this seemed to drive her to the edge as she ran, not caring where she was going but needed to get away from the tight corridors. She bumped into people, with them giving her the finger but couldn’t care because everything was blurred out. Her mind and surroundings felt like a maze and all she wanted was to get out.

“Let me out of here! Please, get me out of here!” Screaming out loud until she found a quiet spot outside of an alley that was dry enough to sit, away from the school so she could collect her thoughts, but close enough so teachers wouldn’t look for her. She cried, her head buried into her chest, reaching for anything to give her comfort, which is when she landed on the razor. Intrusive thoughts running around in her head. The silver razor was sharp, cautiously placing it towards her skin but stopped when she heard someone coming, putting it back into her bag and running to another part of the school. Which is when she came to the music room, the room was dark and hid under the teacher’s desk. It was childish as if she was hiding from trouble, except this time she was just wanting the thoughts to quiet down, so she could think. She couldn’t go home, quickly locking the door so no one would find her as she crept back into the desk and sat there, crying. She let everyone down and that was one feeling she couldn’t cope with.

Time wasn’t a construct that Hazel was facing. Trapped in her own anxiety-filled world. She managed to cut her skin with the razor she kept hidden. Minutes turned into hours when the door to the music room unlocked, revealing Ms. Solis’ presence. Frozen in her presence, she kept quiet as the lights came up and Ms. Solis was there, wearing a light flowy blouse and soft blue pants. She was going to set her things down on her desk when she saw Hazel’s backpack. Looking down, she saw Hazel in a mess. Concerned as she bent down and saw Hazel’s eyes as she applied pressure to her chest, anxiety driving her.

“Hazel, honey, you okay? It’s nearly 12 o’clock here. Why aren’t you in lunch?” Ms. Solis asked with Hazel, trying to decipher each word that was coming out but it all sounded like nails on a chalkboard, she couldn’t take it. Ms Solis realized what was happening and went to the telephone, telling her teachers she wouldn’t be coming into their classes, that she wasn’t feeling well and had to go home. Her teachers understood since results of the GSCEs had everyone on edge. She hung up and bent back down to her.

“Hi darling, I’m going to call your dad to come pick you up, okay? I know today is a hard day, so I want to make sure you feel-“ Ms Solis started with Hazel shaking her head nervously. Nerves bounced off of her.

“You can’t! I can’t face what I’ve done! I tried so hard on those tests and I failed the Science portion. I studied…I studied so hard and I failed! I failed and there going to be mad at me! I can’t face them, please don’t call them! Please!” Hazel cried with Ms. Solis hurting for her. Hazel Nelson-Spring was one of her favorite students and knew how hard she worked. To see her like this broke her heart, putting her hand softly on her knee. The pressure helped with Hazel not backing away in fear.

“Darling, I’m sure your dads will be proud of you. We all struggle with something and trust me, Science isn’t the easiest and I’m sure they will be understanding. I don’t want you to worry about this. I want you to go home and get some rest, okay?” Ms. Solis comforted. Hazel didn’t know if she could agree or not but didn’t want to upset her favorite teacher, so she nodded as Ms. Solis stood up and made the call.

Back at the house, Nick was planning the games for the England rugby team when his phone rang. Picking it up, he planned it to be Charlie saying he got out of work early, but it was Ms. Solis. Worried as he answered, his expression became concerned and panicked as he bolted out of his chair and into Hazel’s room where he grabbed her AirPods and noise-cancelling headphones. Once he was done, he rushed down the stairs, grabbing his car keys, and bolted out of the door. Driving off to the school, his heart pounded. Fearing the worse, his mind went into overdrive. Speeding at every opportunity he could on the twisty road. He was worried that this was a breakdown and doctors were there. A lot of people overwhelmed her and that could make things worse, being looked at as a spectacle. Pulling up to the school, relieved that no officiers or medical services there. He raced over to the music building where he saw Ms. Solis take him aside, explaining what happened. Nick took deep breaths as he was exhausted from the run, nodding with what she was saying. Ms. Solis said she would stay back as Nick went into the dark classroom. It wasn’t hard to find Hazel with her bag a few feet away from the desk. He bent down, seeing his daughter in a vulnerable state.

“Hey, doll.” Softly speaking so he didn’t scare her.

“I didn’t mean to miss any classes, please you have to believe me.” Hazel panicked as Nick held back his own tears from crying.

“I know, we all have bad days. Let’s go home and I’ll make you some strawberry crumble or a chocolate trifle. I know those are your favorites.” Nick cheered up but Hazel felt guilty.

“I don’t deserve it. I failed my science GSCE and now I have to retake it and I don’t know what’s going to happen with college. Dad was planning on retiring soon, so now…” Hazel panicked as she grabbed the razor and made a few licks on her skin, feeling the relief of the blades digging into her skin, Nick was shocked as he took the razor away from her. Some resistance but was able to succeed as Nick hugged her, rubbing his hand up and down her back.

“It’s okay darling, we know you studied and tried. It’s going to be okay. We all need help from time to time. We can talk about this later, but right now I want to take you home and have you rest. I’ll even put on Winnie the Pooh or Bluey for you. Does that sound okay?” Nick promised with Hazel, picking at the red skin but nodded as she stood up grabbed her backpack, and walked out with Nick, hiding her face walking out of the classroom and into the car.

The car ride was silent with her not saying anything and vice versa. Once they were home, Hazel went upstairs and collapsed on her bed. The TV turning on to Bluey initially but the opening hurt her ears, so she changed it to Winnie the Pooh. Zoning in and out of that space. Nick knew that Hazel’s problems were big but he didn’t know how to face it or what he was going to tell Charlie.