#I'm almost afraid to watch Hill House now

[blizwolfthewolf]

Me, watching episode 6 of Bly Manor after having already seen Midnight Mass and is extremely high: "I'm going to find Mike Flanagan and STRANGLE HIM WITH MY BARE FUCKING HANDS"

Me, sober, having just finished Bly ep. 8 and sobbing while hugging my wife: "I'm still gonna find Mike Flanagan and strangle him"

[lipeg]

Jaune: Sun has done much to damage both

Jaune had arrived early in the morning at the hospital where Blake and Yang were staying.

He was here as the Jaune Arc and not as the chief of police of Vacuo.

All Faunus were afraid to look at him, for he was the descendant of the devil of Faunus legends.

When Jaune arrived at the hospital.

It took him a while to find Yang and Blake because he had stopped to help people with his semblante of healing and unlocking people's auras.

Yang: When I find that monkey, I'm going to cut off his tail

Jaune: Yang, I have to remember that you are in front of an authority, I can put you in jail

Jaune sat in a chair.

Yang and Blake were in bed.

There were a lot of other people around her who were receiving medical treatment.

Because the world is in a desperate situation.

Jaune looked at the two guys and saw that they were almost 100%. As they were hunters, they were priorities.

Jaune: Okay, Blake starts talking

Blake: Speak? Say what?

Jaune crossed his arms.

Jaune: I talked to Neptune, he revealed to me that you and Sun have been through a lot together, you even traveled together when you escaped from Beacon.

Blake:I really have no idea why he did that, jealousy maybe?

Jaune: Our 🙄 I was so jealous when I saw you two kissing~

Jaune: Blake, please, Sun must have had a reason to do that, a man just doesn't hit a woman just because she's a lesbian. There must be a reason, and you know what it is, Blake

Blake looked away.

She was nervous.

Jaune let out a sigh.

Jaune: Come in soon

Blake turned pale.

She thought that Sun would enter through that door, but the person who entered was not Sun

It was Robyn Hill... Wait, this is still bad.

Before Blake could do anything.

His right arm was bound with a chain that was made of aura.

Blake: He can create aura weapons

Robyn was standing between Blake and Yang's bed.

Blake: you can't force me

Jaune: Yes, yes I can, I have studied the laws of Vacuo. And right now you're not helping Blake, I'm a 65-year-old man, do you think I'm that stupid?

Random doctor: You are 65 years old!

Jaune turned to the doctor.

Jaune: Aura does wonderful things

Jaune stood up.

He pulled a super necklace out of his pocket and took Blake's left hand, he put a large amount of necklace, and then he took Robyn's hand and glued both of their hands together.

Blake hadn't escaped.

Jaune returned to his chair.

Jaune: Then Blake started talking

Jaune bitterly regretted it.

Blake is not a girl with problems.

She was trouble in girl form.

He was not supposed to improve Robyn's semblante.

She revealed too much. Something he doesn't need to know.

Robyn wanted to get out as soon as possible when Blake told her about.... His hobbies

Everyone stopped to watch this soap opera, or rather everyone who was in the room.

Jaune: Let me see if I understood. Have you ever had a boyfriend who was 100% anti-human, where you both had a little tense relation, but... full of sexual tension...

Jaune stopped breathing.

Jaune: Instead of sitting down and having a conversation with him, you ran away to the Beacon, he was one of The White Fang leaders, who was one of the main people responsible for Baecon's attack and he was responsible for cutting off Yang's arm!

Jaune pointed at Yang's missing arm.

Jaune: You left without telling your team to go after the White Fang and detail that you did not take Yang to the hospital, you left her bleeding on the floor without her arm!

Random man: What a crazy thing

Jaune: You faced your ex-boyfriend and almost died! If Yang hadn't arrived on the scene

Blake: You forget the breaking into my house part

Jaune: This is the least important part! It was a miracle, Yang, it seems like you weren't dead! To add fuel to this fire, you discovered that your ex-boyfriend was an SDC slave.... This relationship is not toxic, it sucks! The guy was enslaved, he literally has a slave mark on his eye, how do you not want this guy to hate human?

Elderly lady: He really is right

Jaune: What is incredible to me is the fact that Sun was willing to be of help to you. He accepted all of this even though you treated him badly

Blake: I didn't treat him badly, Jaune.

Jaune: I didn't find another word.

Jaune coughed.

A child handed him a glasswater.

Jaune drank water and returned the glass.

Jaune: Thanks

Jaune: This story between the two of you starts off all wrong. You abandoned your team without giving a single warning, he followed you to your home, where the two of you face the remnants of the white fangs. Your house was attacked, your parents were almost killed, and in the end you kiss him

Yang: Sun looks like he is being chased

Random doctor 2: I wouldn't say he's being persecuted, of all the stories I've heard from my friends, the most common is when a stalker sees that his or her target is having a hard time, this is the perfect opportunity for a kidnapping. He's a fool in love.

Jaune: You gave him a kiss! It's the same thing as putting a billboard on your head and saying you have a chance with me, Sun! Not even my sister did that!

Jaune's blood pressure began to rise.

Jaune: It looks like hell came out of the mind of a 16-year-old teenager. Bringing two troubled teenagers together to become a couple

Yang: Jaune, you sound like an old man complaining

Jaune: I am old Yang, I have more important things to do, and the discussion of your sexuality or Blake's sexuality is not on my list

Blake: So you saying what the Sun is correct

Jaune: Don't put those words in my mouth

Jaune: I'm not saying that what the Sun did was right, but what you did was not right either. You rubbed it in the face of the man who was trying to win you over, that you are happy, etc, etc. Did you have to exaggerate that, Blake?

Blake looked away.

Jaune stood up and put his right hand on Blake's face.

He began to heal Blake.

The wounds that were caused by the Sun began to fade away.

The necklace that kept Blake and Robyn together. It was also undone.

Robyn, now free, the first thing she would do is clean her hand because of the Blake's hobby.

He did the same thing to Yang. But he was able to give back Yang's lost arm.

His work here was done.

Jaune: Now Blake, for the love of Jesus Christ, never do that to anyone again. Now I have to find Sun and make him apologize for what he did

Blake: Who Jesus Chris?

Jaune: Someone who would be the last person you would choose to follow because of your lifestyle

Jaune walked to the door.

Aura chain fell apart.

Jaune: Blake

Suddenly, Blake's animal instincts began to alert her to danger.

When she looked at Jaune.

Jaune was about to leave, his back to Blake.

Jaune had turned his head a little.

Blake had a glimpse of one of his eyes, and that eye was the source of her sense of dread.

Jaune's eye had changed, this eye became like her father's eye when he released his animal side. The difference was that his eye seemed to have electricity, the eye color changed to a much darker blue.

That was the eye of the diabolos Diogron Sabertooth.

They were the same eyes described in the legends.

Blue eyes as deep as the ocean, his eyes radiated lightning.

Jaune: If I find out that you're going to disobey again, I'm going to throw you in and you're never going to get out

Out of fear, Blake nodded his head.

Jaune: Good

Jaune left the room, Blake fell out of bed.

Yang was worried about his girlfriend's safety.

She will have to think of a way to deal with Jaune's new trick.

Elderly lady: Oh my gods, it was great entertainment in between, it would make an excellent piece of theater. It's a shame that my beloved Rogério is no longer here, I would love to give him a blowjob now after this show

Relative of the old woman: Grandma!

Elderly lady: * laughter * Oh darling I may be old but I'm still very good at what I do

[weezerfan123]

do u have any songs u associate with sweet dirt maychance ? i am making a playlist n i would luv to hear recs from madam sweet dirt herself thank u 💖🧡

Omg I’m so honored to be called madam sweet dirt!! Yes I have a whole playlist,, ⬇️

Here’s all the songs, accompanied by some lyrics that are Sweet Dirt to me…! ^_^

I REALLY REALLY love music and lyrics and analyzing them and attaching them to characters… so this is a long list… not sorry!

Dirty Town - Mother Mother

“Yeah, I pinched my pennies and I put 'em down

And I washed my hands of a dirty town”

“My lady friend, oh, she don't need to pretend

She country

She cracks the crack of dawn with her crackin' whip”

Dig - Incubus

“We all have something that digs at us

At least we dig each other

So when weakness turns my ego up

I know you'll count on the me from yesterday”

Shutup You’re Stupid - That Handsome Devil

“Shut up, you're stupid

Just hold my frigging hand (hold my frigging hand)

Shut up, you're stupid, just kiss me

Shut up, you're stupid, just be my frigging man”

Skate - Silk Sonic

“I can smell your sweet perfume

Mmm, you smell better than a barbecue

Oh, superstar is what you are

I'm your biggest fan

If you're lookin' for a man, Sugar, here I am”

There’d Better Be A Mirrorball - Arctic Monkeys

“Don't get emotional, that ain't like you

Yesterday's still leaking through the roof

That's nothing new

I know I promised this is what I wouldn't do

Somehow giving it the old romantic fool

Seems to better suit the mood”

Mama Told Me Not To Come - Tom Jones

“Open up the window, let some air into this room

I think I'm almost chokin' from the smell of stale perfume

And that cigarette you're smokin' 'bout scare me half to death

Open up the window, sucker, let me catch my breath”

“The radio is blastin', someone's knockin' at the door

I'm lookin' at my girlfriend, she's passed out on the floor

I seen so many things I ain't never seen before

Don't know what it is, I don't wanna see no more”

Punk Rock Girl - The Dead Milkmen

“We went to the Philly Pizza Company

And ordered some hot tea

The waitress said, "Well, no

We only have it iced"

So, we jumped up on the table

And shouted, "Anarchy!"”

“We went to a shopping mall

And laughed at all the shoppers

And security guards trailed us

To a record shop”

“We got into a car

Away we started rollin'

I said, "How much you pay for this?"

She said, "Nothing, man, it's stolen"”

Shiver - Maroon 5

“You build me up, you knock me down

Provoke a smile, then make me frown

You are the queen of run-around

You know it's true

You chew me up and spit me out

Enjoy the taste I leave in your mouth

You look at me, I look at you

Neither of us know what to do”

Fire Water Burn - Bloodhound Gang

“I'm the root of all that's evil, yea, but you can call me Cookie”

I Will Buy You a New Life - Everclear

“I hate those people who love to tell you

Money is the root of all that kills

They have never been poor

No, they've never known the joy of a welfare Christmas”

“They might make you think you're happy

Yeah, maybe for a minute or two

They can't make you laugh

No, they can't make you feel the way that I do

I will buy you a garden

Where your flowers can bloom

I will buy you a new car

Perfect, shiny and new

I will buy you that big house

Way up in the West Hills

I will buy you a new life”

Trailer Trash - Modest Mouse

“Live in trailers with no class

Goddamn, I hope I can pass

High school means nothing

Taking heartache with hard work

Goddamn, I am such a jerk

I can't do anything”

Little Pistol - Mother Mother

“Up on my side, where it is felt

I pack a little pistol on my pistol belt

I think it might be fear

Of the world and the way it makes you feel afraid”

Harvest Moon - Phoenix Moon

“Come a little bit closer

Hear what I have to say

Just like children sleepin'

We could dream this night away”

“When we were strangers

I watched you from afar

When we were lovers

I loved you with all my heart

But now it's gettin' late

And the moon is climbin' high

I want to celebrate

See it shinin' in your eye”

The Moon - The Microphones

“And we went all the way up to the small town where I'm from

With foggy air and the wind and the mountain tops

And we clung to rocks and we looked off

You held my hand, you almost got to start feeling me

I finally felt like I was breathing free

And under swaying trees, we fell asleep and had the same dream”

Curl up & Die - Matt Maltese

“There was a time

When I worshipped the ground you walked on

There was a time

When I'd cut off my ear for you

There was a time

When I worshipped the towel you dried on

There was a time

When I'd kill all my friends for you

You're the only one

Makes me wanna cry

You're the only one

Makes me wanna beat up inside

You're the only one

Makes me feel alive

You're the only one

Makes me wanna go home and

Curl up and die”

“I was just the tag on your shoes

(Curl up and die)

And I liked being that

(Curl up and die)

I was just the germs in your flu

(Curl up and die)

And I liked being that

I was just the chip on your tooth

And I liked being that

I was just the me to your you

And I liked being that”

Street Carp - Deftones

“It's not that I care (truly)

But you're that girl (with sharp teeth)

Who grabs at the walls (and pulls me down)”

Little Boxes - Pete Seeger

Basically all of the lyrics to this song,, I associate it with Sweet Dirt because I have this headcanon that Scott is hates the government/the system/society etc.,

This also reminds me of them bc they wouldn’t want a typical “ticky-tacky” life together

Loving Machine - TV Girl

Also literally just this whole song. I think it’s really sweet. To me it’s about Sugar befriending Scott when he’s in the trauma chair. I think Scott would appreciate having her by his side through his recovery because she wouldn’t pity him or baby him at all.. I’ll write a fic abt this au someday.. I promise..

Freaking Out - Death

Idk why this one is on here,, them when they freak out i guess LMFOA I just like this song

Somethin’ Stupid - Frank & Nancy Sinatra

“The time is right, your perfume fills my head

The stars get red, and, oh, the night's so blue

And then I go and spoil it all

By saying somethin' stupid like, "I love you"”

“I can see it in your eyes

That you despise the same old lies

You heard the night before

And though it's just a line to you

For me it's true

And never seemed so right before”

Passionfruit - Drake

“Listen

Seeing you got ritualistic

Cleansin' my soul of addiction for now

'Cause I'm fallin' apart

Yeah, tension

Between us just like picket fences

You got issues that I won't mention for now

'Cause we're fallin' apart”

Everlong - Foo Fighters

“Tonight, I throw myself into

And out of the red

Out of her head, she sang

Come down and waste away with me

Down with me

Slow, how you wanted it to be

I'm over my head

Out of her head, she sang”

“Breathe out

So I can breathe you in

Hold you in

And now

I know you've always been

Out of your head

Out of my head, I sang”

P.U.N.K. Girl - Heavenly

“P is for the painful way she makes me feel some day

U is for Utopia, the other times with her

N is for the new wave dreams she had back in her teens

K is for the kid in her, my PUNK girl

She is honest and kind but in a way that people see

As telling lies and being mean

She has thousands of dreams but what they are I'll never know

I hope I figure in them though

I don't care if they can't see

Just how great that girl can be

But I wish, she'd find a way To act well, for just one day”

Take Me by the Hand - Flamingos in the Tree

“Dancing slow

While my heart beats fast

Should I tell you how

I've escaped my past

Take me by the hand back to your place

Show me how to dance and we'll embrace

Take me by the hand back to your place

Show me how to dance”

“Hold me close with your hand in mine

Let me be the one that you keep in mind

When you're laying there staring at the ceiling

And you need someone too”

[rebellionmoon]

💚 ILLUMI HEADCANONS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY 💚

idk but i just love imagining random facts about illumi, that don't really add to his character, but kindof do too? Maybe it's because there isn't much screen time of illumi in the anime that my brain needs to fill all that empty space of longing in my heart of what could have been.

SO HERE ARE RANDOM ILLUMI (HEADCANON) FACTS THAT SERVE NOTHING:

He drinks beer and uses his teeth to open the bottles. He used to have a collection of bottlecaps, but then he gave them to Killua. So whenever Illumi opened a bottle, the cap would hence force go to Killua. Now the jar of bottlecaps is somewhere in Killua's room collecting dust.

After finishing an assassintion, he likes to get fastfood. Something quick and indulgent, like it's a cheat day. If he was on a job with his brothers then they'd hit a bodega afterwards. Sometimes he would bring food back to Milluki too.

He can hold a burger in one hand and tear through a ketchup packet with his teeth. He dips his food so much, he rarely eats anything without sauce.

Like Silva, Illumi has had a few pets in his life. One of them being a bear. He named it Pikelet. (I'll explore this one more in my fic!)

Although murder is his trade, that shouldn't hinder his other passions, including wild life conservation! This boy grew up in the mountains, albiet privately owned. You can't convince me he isn't a goblin child at heart.

He always thought he deserved to have fangs.

When he sees a walking stick lying on the ground, he has the urge to pick it up and wield it like a sword.

When he was eight he read all the narnia books. Peter was his comfort character, but he wanted to be Prince Caspian. To this day, if you ask him why he likes Narnia, he will give you a disseration and explain why Lucy is the strongest of all the penvensie siblings. He has never had turkish delight, but believes he would betray his siblings for them, they just look so good!

He could grow antlers out of pure will power. No, literally, he can. He can and will show you. "I'm a crytid. Look at my antlers."

He's still a Goosebumps kid at heart. When autumn rolls around, he he lays in bed and watches his favorite spooky shows (scooby doo, goosebumps, are you afraid of the dark?, tales from the crypt)

When he was little, he used to play in the forest by himself ALOT. One time, he crawled into a log, but the log was at the top of a hill and it began to roll down with him in it and then it rolled into a pond. He was able to escape, but he almost drowned and never told anyone what happened. He was a little mortified to tell anyone because he almost died doing something stupid. He'll tell you he has done alot of stupid things in the woods, but won't divulge more than that.

He's actually kind of good at acting and loves watching movies. This is part of why he is so good at diguises, he studies the actors in movies lol Sometimes he repeats lines from movies randomly in the house. Out of nowhere, he shouts 'BILBOOOO BAGGINSSSS' in a gandolf like voice. It's okay, just accept it.

Illumi has rehabilitated many opossums in his life.

He owns an animal rescue ranch, under a different identity of one of his disguises, that rebahilibates injured animals and prepares to release them back to the wild. His current disguise is an old man, but Illumi plans to 'die' and come back as his son/heir. Yes, he has worked out an entire line of succession for a rescue ranch. Did he have to do this? No, but he did anyway.

Once Illumi officiated the wedding between a frog named Freddie Lime to another frog named Emily Spinach. Oh, he was also high, but the wedding was beautiful, and Milluki fished him out of the pond afterwards.

There's a deer in Kukuroo Mountain that is fond of Illumi. If it sees him, it will run up to him. Illumi doesn't know what the forest calls the deer, but he calls it Thimble. He gives Thimble treats, and Thimple lets Illumi pet him, the arrangement has worked out very well so far.

Kukuroo Mountain is self sustainable, and alot of the food they cook they grow themselves. There's also a farm, with cows. Illumi would just be chilling on a hamick and then suddenly killua runs past him, and then so does a cow. Illumi goes back to napping, this isn't his mess to clean up.

"Concept: I will continue to bottle up all my emotions until I snap."

Moss.

Here were some facts! I have more stuff, but those are spoilers for my fanfic (where shadows touch), My obsession might be unhealthy but it's delicious and i love it so I'm not gonna stop.

[fangsandsoftgrass]

Day 14 Date night./Vampire.

Since I still haven't finished their introduction from Fennorians POV I figured I'd use my small blurb from Cir's POV as today's vampire prompt :3

Having lost the race to warn the priests of Kilkreath about the incoming storm, Cirwedh makes an unlikely ally with whom she unknowingly shares a mutual past ;)

The cold wind whipped at the exposed skin of Cirwedh's cheeks as Gladriel raced through towards the blizzard raging atop Kilkreath, each droplet of moisture in the air like a shard of ice against what little face wasn't covered by her cowl. She was covered in dark blood from her assailant moments prior, and the stench of vampire guts threatened to overwhelm her senses as she cut through the waves of Bloodfiends that appeared after him. As she disposed of the last one, her nose picked up a new scent; the unmistakable smell of Reach magic. They crested the hill just in time to watch the clouds overhead reach a boiling point before splitting like a wound and bleeding into the sky, staining the air itself a deep red. Her heart sank. Just like the Doomcrag.

Before she could lose herself in the thought, a shadow draped in ash-colored mist streaked from behind the trees and into the path before her. There was a jerk as Gladriel dug her paws into the ground and halted, laying her head low and growling. The smell is what hit Cirwedh first—the cold scent of undeath clinging to the air around them—then the too-slow beat of their heart in their chest, and finally the snowy pallor of their skin, all screaming to her that this was a vampire. They were thin and tall (easily taller than her), and as she pulled the string of her bow back, they threw their hands into the air and cried out

"Stop! Turn around. A disaster has befallen Kilkreath Temple!" His eyes were wide now, almost glowing with each flash of the storm's light.

"State your business!" behind the cloth covering her mouth, she bared her teeth. "By Y'ffre, if yer with the bloodsuckers that jumped us, I'll put an arrow in that heart of yours!" she hoped it sounded as intimidating as she'd intended.

There was an audible gulp as he swallowed, and when he spoke, there was a quiver in his voice.

"D-don't be alarmed! I mean you no harm, but there are harrowfiends swarming Kilkreath Temple who do. You and-" he looked almost uneasy as he glanced down at Gladriel, "You and your bear should get back to safety before they find you!"

Just then, a crack of thunder sounded behind them, and the vampire jumped before turning to look over his shoulder. Something was different about this one; Cirwedh couldn't help but notice. Behind him, the sky churned and spit forks of crimson lightning, leaving behind the stink of sulfur with each strike. Time was running out. Though she was too late to warn the temple, and every bone in her body was screaming at her to run away from her nightmares incarnate, something had to be done. Realizing her breath had become ragged, Cirwedh relaxed the grip on her bow and let it fall to her side. It was clear to her now that whoever this was had no part in the creation of this storm, and as Lyris was likely still in Solitude, it fell on her and this stranger to put an end to whatever the Icereach had done.

"What did you call those Bloodfiends?" she called over the storm as she patted a hand against Gladriel's neck, urging her forward despite her growls of protest. "Harrowfiends?" As she approached, the fog between them grew thin, and she realized how familiar the stranger looked. There was a certain sharpness to his features she'd seen before, and something about his scent was similar to one she'd known in the past. Whatever it was could wait, however, as another scream shook the thought from her mind.

"Harrowfiends. A nasty result of this Harrowstorm, I'm afraid." He startled at another clap of thunder. "As for me, I am Fennorian of House Ravenwatch. I know now is not the time for introductions, but I feel the need to assure you I am here with only good intentions."

House Ravenwatch. That's what it was. She could see it now in the way he carried himself; this was one of Verandis' wards. At least he was Verandis' ward. A sudden sadness overcame her, and when she looked into his eyes, she saw an uncanny resemblance to her old friend.

"I am a friend of the Ravenwatch," she said, bringing a fist to her heart and bowing as best she could, still seated within the writhing saddle of vines atop Gladriel's back. Many apologies for my earlier ehm—hostility." She said it like she hadn't charged in, covered in blood and threatening to shoot him. "I meant to warn the temple of a Reach Witch attack, but we both know that didn't happen."

If she'd had the luxury of time, Cirwedh would have asked more about the state of the Ravenwatch since her departure, but as she felt their time slowly running out, all she could do was pull her bow back to arm and offer him a hand.

"I still aim to do something about those Witches. Are you in?' She flexed her gloved fingers and nodded towards the temple.

"I am." He nodded and took her hand. "If you can fight the fiends, I can do something about the storm. I've been watching the Coven for a while now and know what to look for."

Good, she told herself. If she was going headfirst into trouble, she was at least glad to have an ally who knew their stuff. She thought back to what he'd said earlier about the Ravenwatch, and if one of them was here, the threat was more than what Lyris had expected. Above, the storm looked like it was calming; the sky beginning to clear despite the surrounding air remaining red. Something worse was coming. She knew it. And as they cleared the space between them and the temple, Cirwedh couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning.

[arthoure]

Some Things I Noticed in Naples

It makes sense that my family is from here

It smells like stale smoke, church incense, sometimes piss, sometimes a breeze from the sea, sweet and clear

Little shrines to Maria in the walls, on the corners, sometimes shadowed, sometimes lit with blue neon

The streets are full of cigarette butts, trash bins, confetti

Whole city still draped in plastic streamers, blue and white, from winning the scudetto weeks ago. They outnumber the laundry lines. They cover the churches

Old men in fold-out chairs chat on the street corners

Limoncello in an iced glass, frosty against wet July heat

SANTO DIEGO here, there, haloed in gold foil on a virgin-blue field. Veneration at the Iglesia Maradoniana, all parishioners with nothing, from nowhere

"Why would you go back," Granddad said over the phone as I packed, dark laughter in what's left of his voice. "We worked so hard to leave."

Playing chicken with cars to cross the street -- any street. Learn fast or get nowhere. Learn fast or die. But everyone learns. The trick is to be aware, but not to look. Don't hesitate, but don't hurry

Why be afraid of the bricks my ancestors laid before starving? I remember the scrape of Granddad's trowel when I came over after school, the neat slap of the mortar, a tiered garden for tomatoes along the side of the house, letting me draw my initials with my finger, concrete dust and no mask, throat cancer. My hands are big too after all these years, wide palms, long fingers, but so soft. We all end someday. There are bones on display in Pompeii. The Herculaneum stonemasons came from Pozzuoli. Guess who else came from Pozzuoli. Guess who didn't

Seafood shops open in the mornings. Plastic bins of water filled with little clams, sardines. A line of customers outside, stretching just as far out the door as the fresh-sea smell

"You want to know what to do in Napoli?" Granddad said, mouth heavy with his shrug. "I don't know what to say. Go to Capri." It escaped in Italian, he corrected immediately: "CapREE. And when you're in Naples, watch out for thieves."

2.50€ CAMPARI SPRITZ TO GO

The server at the restaurant shows the customer a big silver fish on a plate. The customer inspects it, mouth tight and tough, nods approval

Preteen girls in dark pink lipstick roar past on black motorcycles. Do they even have a license. Wherever their parents are, I hope they never catch up

Fancy café selling fresh-squeezed lemon juice by Castel Sant'elmo. The young man working there blasts dance music, singing along at the top of his lungs. Out the window you can see Vesuvius. His boss comes in and he sings louder

From the top of the castle, Naples sprawls, red-roofed and baking, breathless with heat by the sea. A hermitage hovers on a green hill to the northwest. Wish that were me

I write Granddad an email: So many people worked so hard for so many years, and now I can do something like this. I'm very grateful. He writes back in the language he refused to teach me: VEDI NAPOLI E POI MUORI

Ditalini with peas. Pasta e piselli -- is that what it's called? Is that what it's always been called?

"You look like you belong here," my husband says over fried squid, surprising me. "I mean, a lot of the women here look like you, and vice-versa. The big eyes."

Granitarias turning, colors so bright you can almost taste them. Blueberry, cantaloupe, lemon, mint

Train doors screaming before they close, no AC, windows open, wind blasting, wheels rattling

A little girl shouts "CIAO!" to the train car and waves goodbye before she takes her mother's hand. We all wave back

[the-light-finds-its-way]

It's been a long time since I wrote anything about Vandus-1, a character that came to me in a dream. He was a Vex severed from the hive mind only partially, but came to Titan me, and asked for help to be fully severed from it. So I took him to Europa, and we fought through the Vex there, but one shot Vandus in the head, almost killing him. I quickly gathered Exo body parts, and hooked him up to them, afraid he wouldn't make it. After several hours, the Exo body awoke, and Vandus spoke in his own voice this time, thanking me. We broke out of the facility together, and made it back to the Tower.

Well!! I've got more content for y'all!! :D

Vandus one day feels something in his stomach. He's confused. It's like an empty rumbling...

"That's hunger," I tell him. "Let's go to the ramen shop!"

"What's ramen? What's hunger? I'm... so confused!!" Vandus cries. The rumbling comes once more, and Vandus grips his stomach, groaning.

I chuckled. "It's alright, man. You've never had to eat before, have you?"

He shakes his head. "I've heard of it, but Vex don't eat."

"You're gonna love it!!" I tell him. And I direct him toward the ramen shop.

Once we sit down, the cook asks us what kind of ramen we want. I select salty, and Vandus, he just hesitates.

"He's never eaten anything before," I tell the cook. "He's... new."

Nodding, the cook just makes another bowl of salty ramen, and passes it to Vandus. "Try it! You'll love it!!" they say.

Vandus picks up the chopsticks awkwardly, holding both in his fist.

I chuckle. "Watch me," I say. I place the sticks properly in Vandus's hand, then show him how to pick up the ramen. I put it in my mouth, and chew, then swallow.

Vandus follows along, and puts some ramen in his mouth. Immediately, the lights of his eyes grow brighter, and he perks up. "By the Traveler!! This is amazing!!"

"Right?!"

There, Vandus quickly eats all the meal, and he deeply thanks the cook. "I'll be back as soon as I'm hungry again!" he says. "I... still don't know when that will be."

"Not very long if you're anything like me!" I tell him with a laugh. "Have you ever seen a movie?"

Vandus pauses. "What's that? Something to do with moving?"

"Sort of. C'mon." I take Vandus to the nearest movie theater, and pick out an animated film about talking animals helping one another escape a storm.

By the end, Vandus is standing up cheering and clapping.

I chuckle, and hug him close. His emotions are so pure, so real, so true. He is really free.

And then, it's toward the end of the day. Vandus's first ever day alive and free. Now, the Exo is feeling wobbly, his eyes are heavy, and he asks me what's going on.

"You're tired," I tell him. "It's been a long day, and you need to sleep."

"Sleep?" he asks.

"Yeah! Close your eyes, and just drift off for a few hours into your mind. And you'll wake up feeling better."

"But... what if I... don't wake up?"

"You will. I promise." I hold Vandus close, and smile. "Come with me. We'll go to the house, and I'll keep you close so you aren't alone. And then, we can sleep, and wake up together."

We walk back to my house, and I lead him to the bed. Pulling back the covers and blankets, Vandus climbs in and lays down. I go to the other side of the bed, and join him. Gently, I squeeze one hand of his, while covering us up with the second.

"It's ok, man. You'll be alright," I say. I close my eyes, and Vandus does the same. Together, we fall asleep, hand in hand, and several hours later, we both wake up.

I look at Vandus. "Did you imagine anything while you were asleep?" I ask.

He nods, smiling. "I imagined the animals from the movie climbing a hill, and eating at a picnic together. They had ramen! All of them loved it, and then, they took a short sleep together, holding each other close."

"That's called a nap," I tell him. "Sometimes, you get tired during the day, so you sleep for an hour or so, and wake up feeling better!"

"People sleep a lot, it seems..."

I laugh. "Oh, yeah. A lot. But that's part of the fun! It's a break from life!"

"But... I want to keep living! Forever!" Vandus says.

"And you will. Trust me," I say. "It's just... sometimes you have to take a break. Take it easy! If you do too many things before sleeping, it'll make you more tired more quickly. But if you want to have a lot of fun, I can take you to a Crucible match!!"

"Guardians? Fighting?!" he asks.

"Oh. It's SO much more than that," I tell him. "They put on a whole show and everything!!"

Vandus smiles. "I'd like that. I want to learn more about your kind. The Guardians."

And together, we go off to the Crucible, take our seats, and we watch a few matches together. Vandus cheers and shouts, and his eyes catch one Exo Warlock. This Warlock fights well, he uses his super and takes out the entire arena of opponents, and he absolutely kicks ass.

"What's this feeling?" Vandus asks me, eyes locked on the Warlock.

"Describe it, and I can tell you," I reply.

"Uhh... Happy. About him." Vandus points to the Warlock.

I gasp. "You're probably feeling love!" I tell him. "That's amazing!!"

"It is?"

"Yeah, man!! Come with me. I can help you out!" I grab Vandus's arm and drag him along with me, past the main arena, and up to Shaxx.

Shaxx is clearly elated. "Magnus! Who's this?" he asks. "I've never met this Exo before."

"This here's Vandus-1. And he wants to meet that Exo Warlock when the match is over," I tell him.

Shaxx chuckles. "I can arrange that! Sure!"

And Vandus grows tense. He hesitates, shifting anxiously in place. "What do I say? What should I tell him? What do I—"

"Just tell him your name, and take it from there!" I say.

There, the Exo Warlock walks out from the arena. He's grinning, though clearly exhausted, and chuckles. His green eyes look up, and land on Vandus, who jumps, and becomes still as a statue. The Warlock laughs. "No need to be scared, man! I've met Magnus here on the field! He's a friend! Are you a friend of his, too?"

Vandus nods. "He—he saved my life. Back on Io. I uhh... I'm... Vandus."

The Exo Warlock holds out a hand. "Talos-4," he replies. "You're... kinda cute! Like you don't know how to handle yourself."

"I... don't," Vandus tells him. He grabs the hand and shakes. "I... I like you how I like ramen."

"Is that good?" Talos asks.

I laugh. "VERY good," I say. "That's the only love he knows."

Talos nods, smiling. "Do you wanna go get some ramen?"

Vandus nods rapidly. "Mhm! Please!"

Talos drags Vandus into himself, and does a bridal dip, grinning as he looks directly into the Exo's eyes. "Been a while since I last saw a new Exo. Lemme introduce you to a few things you can do now, eh?" From there, he lifts the heavy Exo into his arms, and begins walking toward the exit. Talos looks back at me. "C'mon, wingman! Bring your boyfriend, too! Let's make it a double date!!"

[dudewhy3]

❤️ 💥 ⏰ 🔮 🚀 🦈 🍬 🎬 🎨 💘 🚦 🤩 💛

:3!!!

hi you, moon, thank you for your ask!!

❤️ What is your favorite line that you’ve written in a fic?

Armin watches her cross the bridge separating his side of the village from hers and slowly make her way up the hill, to a house he could never dream of stepping foot into again, where everything he could never be able to offer awaits her arrival. (from Nothing Sweeter Than You)

💥 What is one canon thing that you wish you could change?

i wouldn’t necessarily change anything major, but i wish we knew more about Bert's past, and the gap between the Rumbling and them becoming Ambassadors of Peace

⏰️ Do you like to post fics on a schedule or at random?

i'd love to have a posting schedule, especially for wpts, and i'm trying to make that happen. but with how hectic life is right now, i haven't been able to keep that up.

🔮 Any advice for writers working through burnout or writer’s block?

i'd like to recieve some lmao

try stepping away from projects that give you headaches for a while. write something new, that you’re excited about, or find a prompt list, pick one at random and write on it for 15 minutes or so– i've found that quite helpful lately! but also don’t be afraid to completely step away from writing. sometimes life is just too much, there are many things that lead to burn out, it’s okay, it happens. step away, take a breath, take care of yourself and your well being– your stories amd your readers will still be there when you come back ♡

🚀 Do you like to outline your fic first or create as you go?

outline! i almost always outline my fics, it helps put stuff in perspective and makes it easier to write, having a direction and stuff.

🦈 Which character is the toughest to write?

all of them, in a way. it depends on my head soace at that moment

🍬 Do you write for multiple fandoms? If yes, what is your favorite fic of yours for each fandom?

i do actually, i just never posted anything for any other fandom than aot lmao. but my favourite fanfic for that is probably Who painted the sky?

🎬 If a movie or show were based on your fic, which fic would you choose and who would you fancast?

Who painted the sky?, and i want Maya Hawk as Hannah and Jenny Walser as Marie, i have no idea for the volunteers really. feel free too add your own fancast for them, i'd love hearing y'all's ideas!!

also for See You Again, i want the entire cast of Gray's Anatomy to have a role!

🎨 If someone were to make fanart of your work, what fic or scene would you hope to see?

see, i'd be happy with any scene from any fic. literally a n y scene

💘 Is it easier to write angst or fluff?

depends on how i feel really

🚦What sort of endings do you prefer to write: ambiguous, bad, happily ever after, etc.?

ambiguous! i love leaving room for immagibation, or sometimes a sequel 👀

🤩 What led to your interest in the fandom?

great question! my oldest friend told me about aot in 2017 so i watched it, and i was so mad over petra's death i stopped lmao. then 2019 came aroumd and i was just bored so i picked it up again, started reading the manga in 2020 and started writing for the fandom in the summer of the same year. it was the same friemd that pointed out Annie and Armin looked cute together, and that, topped by mimi's fanfics, lured me into this side of the fandom and made me want to actively be part of it.

💛 What is the most impactful lesson you’ve learned about writing?

it fluctuates. it comes and goes in waves. it's an extremely flexible thing. it's entirely impacted by your personal life, it reflects in your art in ways you might not notice.

[nobody-does-it-better]

Nicky stood at the top of the valley ridge. Her eyes were dark and circled and the brilliant blue was wild and wicked as they honed onto the small nestled hamlet between the tall oaks at the bottom of the slope. She looked out over the high rolling hills like a brutal king surveying his kingdom, exhaling the evening mist into the faintly purple sky, orange clouds streaking out of the sunset like the last rays of day. A soft and cold wind had picked up which blew through the forest and rustled every tree, the gnarled branches covering her like they were a protector. A meth pipe sat between her teeth and she removed it and spat at the ground.

The lights in the houses turned off and two men exited with their wives, she watched their tiny far away bodies move like ants into the rusted piece of shit cars and then drive down their worthless dirt road, kicking up dust that followed them until they disappeared.

Nicky grasped the heavy gas tank and began to trek down the mountain. The leaves and grass crunched under her dirty all stars and she used each tree as leverage. At the bottom she looked around at the property, there lied what things that should have been hers in another life in another time, in the homes lived things she would chase a good part of her life fervently perhaps unknowingly trying to posess.

She broke out into a cold sweat that she felt sear through her entire body, almost as if radiated through her clothes. She threw swaths of gasoline on everything she could find, anything in her vicinity. The tractor, the shed, the shovels, the garden, the bushes, everything ruined and layered in stinking chemical.

There was a dog, a pitbull going buck wild in the house. It was shaking the door bashing against the windows sacrificing itself to come out and either tear her to shreds or be killed in doing so. She taunted it, splashing the foul liquid over the window.

"What the hell!?" A voice called out. Her brother leaned out of the back door and once he saw who it was he almost fell over. "Nicky!"

She stood still, staring at him with a madness that he knew was unstable, that he couldn't protect himself from if he tried. Questions and emotions fluttered through his aged face like a hamster turning its wheel.

"What are you doing here? Is that gasoline?"

Nicky replied by spreading her dry lips and showing her brown teeth. She held up a lighter and shook it at him, taunting him.

"Come near me and I'll blow you to hell."

"Nicky..." He looked around at the soaked yard, at the out of breath and shaking shambling visage that was his sister long ago. Where there once was a gentleness and innocence in those craggy features, it now only existed on the edges of his memory as they had been washed out. "What happened to you?"

She spat at his feet "Leave or burn."

"I know I was bad to you but I'm not dad..."

"Might as well be."

"What do you want?"

"Your wifes ass."

"Nick..."

"Bring her out and let me fuck her, hog tie her and I'll fuck her like the pig she is."

"Jesus Christ Nicky stop it!"

"Wheres dad."

Her brother's chest was heaving, his hands were shaking.

"Your heads so far up his old ass Eric, where is he."

"If I tell you where he is and then you do something to him I aint going to jail. What is goin on with you?"

"What's goin on with me? I'm livin the life, Eric. I'm livin the life dad was always afraid of me livin. I've done everything that would break his heart and bury him ten times over. I want him to know, I want him to see me. I wanna tell him myself."

"Forget about it all, please! Do you need money? Do you have a home? Let me help you, Nick. You have every right to be upset and I'm sorry about how we grew up but I'll help you if you let me."

"Shoulda been better when it mattered." She sucked the air in sharply through her teeth sounding like a snake. "So it goes." She took her gasoline tank and raised it high above her and poured the rest of it over her head. It ran down her face and soaked her clothes and when it poured into her half open mouth she spit it out in a foul cascading waterfall that drenched earth and man and the small bike that lied in the grass between them. Gasoline and drool oozed down her chin and dripped thickly onto her shirt.

Eric took off towards her and with a manic and unrestrained glee she lit her match again and tossed it towards the ground. He crashed into her and together they fell beside a small blaze quickly rising.

[legends-of-time]

The Strength of a High and Noble Hill (Outlander)

Chapter 27: Family Time

Masterlist

April 1770

Brian jumps off the carriage once it slows to a stop in front of River Run and helps Ellen down. He sees Fergus in the distance, tending to their horses and luggage. Ellen looks exhausted, and no wonder. She notices Fergus and waves off Brian's concern, heading towards Fergus.

He's not surprised they made it back before them considering the speed Marsali had been going at when they left Cross Creek while Lord John had set their own carriage at a more sedate pace. Brian is simply glad that Murtagh is safe.

The whole Cross Creek saga was a mess, Brian is just thankful that Bonnet was killed in the explosion. He hopes.

Fergus says something and Ellen nods, frowning. Brian decides to leave them be and follows Lord John into the house.

——

Brian and Lord John find Jacosta in the drawing room with Marsali and Germain.

His great aunt seems delighted with Germain, and he gurgles obligingly as she dandles him on her knee.

"He's got my colourin'." Marsali is explaining gently, sitting close. "But he has Fergus' straight nose, ye ken?"

"Hello Aunt." Brian calls as he enters.

"Brian? Good t' see ye." Jacosta smiles.

He walks over and kisses her on the cheek but not before stroking Germain's head. His nephew grins at him.

"Is yer sister here?" Jacosta asks.

"No, she wanted to say hello to Fergus first, for now you have to bear with Lord John and I."

"Lord John." Jacosta pleasantly greets.

Lord John walks closer and gives her a nod. "Afternoon Madame."

Lord John and Jacosta begin to talk so Brian turns to his sister-in-law, grinning. "Got to say, those carriage driving skills, impressive."

Marsali smirks and shrugs. "Ye'll ken know weel what I am capable of."

"Noted."

They're interrupted by the happy squeal of Germain as Lord John picks him up.

"Oh, no." He hears Marsali mutter.

——

By the time Fergus and Ellen join them, Marsali is laughing and apologising to Lord John as Germain pulls on his cravat, while the Englishman assures her that he is not in the least offended by the child's presumption.

Ellen goes dutifully to greet Jacosta and Marsali comes over to take Fergus's hand, leaving the baby to torment Lord John further. Brian notes his brother's complexion is paler than usual. He looks almost shaken. Marsali is muttering to him in concern.

Lord John surrenders the baby to Ellen as she stands again, looking grateful to be relieved of his tormentor.

"And how's my favourite nephew?" She coos, lifting Germain up to look at him. "You've gotten so big!"

Marsali moves close to Ellen but not before giving her husband a searching glance. "Aye, he'll be a terror, this one." She speaks.

"Watch your earrings, El, seems he wants to tug on anything he can reach." Brian remarks, shaking off his worries and basking in the happy moment.

"I'm afraid he's got no manners to speak of...." Marsali adds apologetically.

Germain decides to prove his mother right and reaches towards Ellen's earrings. "Mine! I want!"

He doesn't seem pleased when the adults laugh and chuckle at him instead of giving him what he wants.

——

A/N: Please comment on how you enjoy this story and what you think.

[mindninjax]

To Shape a Home (2)

Summer- Chapter 2

Previous Chapter| Masterlist | Next Chapter

Bakugo x fem!reader

Warnings: Eijirou Kirishima being the actual man of your dreams and you being a fucking idiot, it's ok it gets better I promise

WC: 4.05K

A/n: Hello Welcome to Chapter 2 a day early thanks to my shitty Wifi. In this chapter you will see my aching love for Eiji in this and I'm so sorry because yes, you (the person reading this) will fall in love with him in this chapter adbjbcdjbscb. It's what he deserves so just humor me ok? sdgjhcvdsgjh Anywhoo I hope you enjoy as always.

The billowing vapors from the mug of coffee you hold in your hands has become a pleasant morning routine you’re fond of. The past few weeks you’ve stood on your porch, watching the sun come up over the tiny hills beyond your property. It’s a sight you don’t think you’ll ever get used to. It’s nothing like watching the sunrise through a crowded train window.

You flex your toes in the lightweight slippers you bought from the cute little boutique in town. It’s been nice visiting and getting to know some of the townsfolk. They’ve all been extremely welcoming and pleasant, offering you condolences and help if you needed it. One guy was even kind enough to offer to come by and help you mend the holes in the roof and take a look at the barn for you.

Eijirou Kirishima, the perfect gentleman.

He’d apologized on behalf of his friend. His bright smile and the way he instantly made you feel welcomed the day he came by to introduce himself was a delightful experience and you decided to recognize that as your first instead of the one with the unfortunate asshole.

Apparently, the asshole had a name, Katsuki Bakugo, and surprise surprise, the assholeness was embedded in his personality due to “past experiences” and tended to make a showing anytime he opened his mouth. At least, according to Eijirou. You haven’t seen the Asshole for about a month now, so you take it as a good sign. Maybe that was the peak of your bad experiences here.

You shuffle down the driveway to your mailbox. You’re not expecting any letters from old friends but it always feels nice to check for any outstanding mail being sent to your grandparents. Inside, there’s nothing but a crumpled flier. It’s a crudely printed advertisement for Joja Mart.

Wow, Joja Mart is stationed all the way out here in the boonies?

You’re familiar with the large company, there was a store on almost every block in the city, so it’s surprising to see that they want to expand so far into the country. You flip the page over; in big red letters it informs you of a “gigantic sale you won’t want to miss!” For some reason, it rubs you the wrong way, it looks so foreign, like it doesn’t belong out here next to the handmade flyers about a student needing a math tutor.

You fold it and head back toward the house, trying to ignore the weird feeling it left in your gut. As you head back up the stairs of your porch, you hear the unmistakable sound of nails scratching dirt and wood. It’s close too, like right under your porch, close.

You’ve heard it before since moving and figured it might be rats or squirrels in the attic. Should you leave it be? If it’s an animal, it could be dangerous. Maybe it could have rabies or something. Should you wait until Eijirou gets here and ask him for help?

No. You’re not some silly damsel in distress. If you’re going to live out here, you have to get your hands dirty. You go back inside, grab a flashlight, and slip on some high boots. Your night gown flows behind you like a cape when you walk and clings to your body like tape when you approach the opening on the side of the porch and lean down to look into the darkness.

To still your trembling breath, you inhale and hum your calm song to yourself. The beam of your flashlight doesn’t uncover any creatures but you can still hear scratching and—is that, whining? Slowly you crouch and enter the dark undercarriage of your porch. Something’s under here and it sounds afraid, maybe it’s even hurt. That thought drives you forward without hesitation. You drop to your hands and knees and crawl further in.

Insects and spiders crawl over your fingers and twice you sneeze and break through cobwebs hanging from the rafters. The scratching is getting closer and you’re surprised that you don’t feel frightened. It’s like you’re a kid again, adventurous, risk-taking, courageous. You shine the light in the direction you heard the scratching and when you see the shadow of something crouching in front of you, you almost scream.

“Hey uhh, you alright under there?”

A random voice behind you scares the crap out of you and you do scream. The creature crouching in front of you whimpers. You’re able to make out the shape when you shine the flashlight and find two huge brown eyes staring at you. It’s a dog, thin, shivering and whimpering like it’s afraid you’re going to hurt it. You gasp and let out a little “aw” when you see it.

“Hello? Anybody here?” the voice speaks again. This time you recognize it and turn around to speak to him.

“Hi Mr.Kirishima! Sorry I’m coming right out,” you yell back to him then whisper to the shivering dog in front of you. “Don’t worry bud I’m not gonna leave you here. I’ll be back in just a minute.”

Crawling out of the space beneath your porch you meet Eijirou's eyes and suddenly you’re very aware of how you look. Is everyone in this damn town attractive? Not likely because if they were you probably wouldn’t have stayed away as long as you had. But still, he’s the second stupidly gorgeous man you’ve come across—even though the first was an asshole— so maybe you should count yourself lucky. You realize you’re staring—like an idiot—and quickly try to wipe the dirt and mud from your gown.

“Hi. Sorry, I’m a mess I-”

“Haha you look fine! Us country folk love seeing a pretty woman dusted with dirt,” he drawls. He beams at you and you tuck your chin close to your body and shy away from him. “So what’s goin’ on here?”

“Oh!” you say, remembering the dog. You lead him back inside your home. “There’s a stray dog under my porch. I need to get him out of there.”

He pauses in the parlor when you slip out of your boots and start for the kitchen. “A stray dog? Is it rabid? Want me to take care of it for ya, Darlin’?”

The way he says that makes a tingle run up your spine and you bite your lip. Darlin’? That’s strangely intimate. He’s probably just being polite, so you need to calm down. You turn to try and tell him that you think the dog is harmless but you're left speechless when you see him standing there.

He has to duck his head to step into your home and when he’s in, he fills the space in the parlor with a protective stability you didn’t know you craved until right now. Out of the morning sun you can see the tan lines of the tank top and what you assume are the overalls he wears on the daily. His hair dusted chest, the way he’s already glistening with sweat, and the dimples on display when he laughs makes you feel like you’re in high school again with a silly little crush.

“N...No no. I think he’s harmless, maybe a little afraid. I’m just gonna grab some food and maybe a bowl of water to try and coax him out,” you stammer.

He beams again, “Ok I can help ya!”

In addition to being extremely handsome, Eijirou proves himself to be the most gentle and kindest man you’ve met. It takes a while for the dog to be coaxed out of its hiding spot but he stays with you the entire time. You barely speak to him as you crouch on your knees at the entrance of the crawl space with your hand outstretched. The dog has your complete attention and as he inches closer and nibbles the pieces of meat you left out for him, you can’t help but feel strangely attached to it.

“It’s alright buddy. There’s no rush, you take your time,” you say in a soft whisper. You coo at him, keeping your voice sweet and patient, assuring the canine he’s ok and safe.

“Hope you like the sausage. I’m a huge fan of it myself. My grandpa used to make it with French fries when I was younger,” you continue.

It’s so easy for you to talk to him, almost like you’re having a conversation with an old friend. Yes, it’s a little awkward that you can talk to a dog like this but be nervous and blushing like an idiot when talking to Eijirou, but the dog wasn’t calling you sweet names like “Darlin’”.

When he’s finally out from beneath the porch, you’re able to inspect him in the morning sun. He’s a sandy shade of brown, with black spots littered over his body. He doesn’t look like a specific breed so you assume he’s a mutt. His ears flop down with a little chunk of it missing, there’s some kind of rash on his front paw and he’s covered in dirt. Your favorite thing about him are his large brown eyes. It’s like they have no secrets.

As he laps at the water in the dish next to you, you reach a hand out. Eijirou intakes a sharp breath behind you. He reaches out to you then pulls back as if stopping himself from a knee-jerk reaction.

“Careful, he may seem sweet but he can still nip ya, ” he warns.

You stare at the dog, who’s stopped drinking water and is now staring at you as if contemplating whether he can trust you. There’s something you can’t put your finger on but for some reason you feel like you know exactly what he’s thinking.

So you take a deep breath and say “I feel like you understand me more than I give you credit for so I’m gonna try something. Will you trust me?”

You raise an eyebrow as you ask and when he licks his chops and continues sitting, you slowly reach a hand out to him. It’s a good sign when he points his wet nose toward you and sniffs your fingertips. He licks it and you squeal in amusement, but before you completely let your guard down you flip your hand over to expose your palm to him. He rises and moves closer to you, bumping his head against your palm.

You gently pet his head, smiling and praising him. “That’s a good boy. That was very brave of you,” you say as his tail starts to wag. Soon the dog is plopped down in your lap as you rub his dirty fur. His tail’s wagging and his tongue drops out of his mouth.

“You’re pretty good with animals, huh?” Eijirou says softening his gaze. God, why does everything he says to you make you blush like an idiot?

“Not really. I just think we both needed a friend,” you say shrugging, trying to be nonchalant.

“Nah, animals know good souls and I think this lil guy knows you’ve got a good one,” he replies, moving closer to you. He had to have gone to a school for charming the panties off women because your heart is beating too fast for you to form a sentence that wouldn’t let him know you’re internally swooning.

Eijirou might be one of the nicest men you’ve ever met in your life. He helps you bathe the dog in your deep bathtub, holds him down when he starts to shake and gets mud all over the walls of the bathroom, and even wraps the rash on his paw. You don’t know why it makes you feel weird when you think about how nice he is to you but it makes you all jittery. He’s nice to be around, a comfort even, but when you think of him being anything more to you, you pull back.

When all is done and the dog is dry and eating more food in the kitchen, Eijirou stretches his arms up above his head. You grab his arm, blushing again as you watch his muscles flex when he stretches.

“Thank you, for all your help today Mr. Kirishima,” you say with bashful flirtation. “I’m sorry we didn’t get to what you actually came over for.”

“Ya know you can call me Eijirou and don’t worry Darlin’. Helpin’ out a pretty lady is always a good time in my book. Plus, I can always come back if you want me to!” he chirps with a huge grin.

You lick your lips quickly and look up at him through your lashes. “Eijirou, I’d like that,” you say then quickly backtrack because it sounds like you’re flirting way too hard and you’re not even sure flirting is what you want to do right now.

“I mean, that’s very kind of you!” you sputter.

You both laugh—thankfully—and it feels like a laugh between two old friends. “So you gonna keep him?” He tilts his head toward the dog.

“Yeah, I think so. He doesn’t have a collar so, I don’t think anyone’s looking for him,” you say watching the dog curiously sniff around the kitchen.

“I think I’ve seen him roamin’ around the town for months. None of us know when he got here but he’s always followin’ people around and the kids in town sometimes play with him,” Eijirou explains.

You hear claws clacking on the wooden floors as the dog pads up next to you and sits wagging his tail and watching Eijirou, like he already knows this is his home.

“So we’re the same, huh bud? Drifters from out of town looking for a home. Think this is a sign?” you say, patting his head. The dog only pants happily and wags his tail.

It’s late afternoon and the sun is about to set, which means Eijirou is reluctantly informing you that he has to head out. You have one very stupid fleeting thought to offer for him to stay the night before that too makes your stomach tighten and you shut it down. Before he leaves, he stops and turns to look at you.

“Hey uhh…I was wonderin’...” he starts.

Is he about to ask you out? Are you ready for him to ask you out? You have been flirting but there’s still that thing inside you, something that tells you you shouldn’t date, at least not right now. You swallow loudly and Eijirou’s eyes grow wide.

“Oh! Oh I'm not makin’ a move on you I swear!” he states, putting his hands up and shaking them while he blushes. You breathe out a relieved sigh and giggle.

“I just wondered if you wanted to go to Toshi’s Saloon with a coupla friends. It’s a nice way to get to know everyone in town. Plus, I think a lot of people would like to meet a sweet gal like yerself,” he explains it all in a rush of words and again you smile. He really is a good person.

You grasp his hand and he stops talking while watching you bat your lashes. “I’d love to,” you say simply.

Then he smirks, holds your hand and kisses the knuckle before he says “It’s gonna be a great time! I’ll let everyone know. Make sure you give your new friend a name!” He bounds down the steps of your porch and marches happily to his truck. When he drives off, you close the door and lean against it.

For once you’re content. Things are going well and looking up. If you avoid that one guy who seems to hate you for no reason, maybe this won’t be as bad. Maybe soon the pain will go away and it’ll be replaced with Eijirou’s friendship or the love of your new pet. The asshole’s words flitter into your mind and you desperately try not to let them linger.

You’ll be gone in a month.

What does he know? You shake your head, refusing to give it any other thought. You walk over to your new friend who’s staring at you, panting with a big open mouthed grin on his face. Bending down to look him in the eyes, you scratch between his ears.

“I think I’ll call you French Fry.”

Katsuki doesn’t fucking get it. How is it possible to run into someone he’s trying to avoid at every possible moment? You’re everywhere and it’s unbearable. The town’s not that small, there’s no way you both have to run the same errands at the same time and yet…

He saunters into the library, three books tucked under his arm ready to return to the book cart. He stops in his tracks when he hears an unfamiliar giggle and instantly he knows it’s you. At the desk in the middle of the library, you’re there with Denki leaning on the countertop as he points to an open book and winks at you.

“You’ll really like Dorothy, Sugar. She’s got a lot of the same feelings goin’ on that you do. Not to mention, she’s a pretty little thing like yerself,” Denki drawls with a charming smirk.

Katsuki watches you put your hand to your lips and giggle again. You’re being cheeky, are you flirting back? Doesn’t matter, he needs to get out of here. Spinning around on his heel he makes for the quick drop off, shoves the books in and exits quickly.

It’s like that the entire week. You’re at Eiji’s carpenter shop discussing blueprints for your barn when he comes in to purchase more nails. You’re at Hanta’s feed shop inquiring about obtaining a cow and buying a bunch of shit that looks like it’s for a dog. He didn’t even know you had a dog.

Fuck, you move quick. How’d you become friends with every single person he talks to the most in this town? They are all suckers for a pretty face, but damn you’ve got your hooks in them deep, especially Eiji. He’s always bringing you up in conversation, then stopping and changing the subject when he sees the look on Katsuki’s face.

He’s not gonna fall for your shit. Staying away from you is his best bet. He's doing well, keeping to himself, taking care of his farm. He doesn’t need to be around everyone all the time. Hell, he didn’t talk to anyone but Eiji the first three months after she left. If he can keep it up once you finally decide to get the fuck out of here, everything will go back to normal.

“Hey so ya comin’ tonight?” Eiji asks, one day while helping him in the garden. He struggles with one of the weeds near the roots of a cucumber plant. Katsuki leans over to toss him shears before he raises an eyebrow.

“Hah?” Katsuki carefully pulls a weed out of the ground and pulls a cucumber from the vine. He inspects it carefully, looking for any dents or imperfections. When he finds none, he tosses it into the basket next to him.

Eiji pokes his tongue out of his mouth while concentrating on snipping the weeds properly. He doesn’t look up when he replies casually, “To Toshi’s.”

Katsuki huffs, why is he asking a dumb question like this. Why wouldn’t he go? And why does he sound like he’s trying way too hard to be casual about it. “Of fucking course I am. Why wouldn’t I?” he responds nonchalantly.

His answer breaks through the forced casual tone Eijirou tries to keep “Wait really? I didn’t expect that.”

Something is definitely up. Eiji’s not usually this dense. “Moron, I’ve never not shown up for work.” Katsuki stops and scrutinizes his face. He looks nervous and scratches behind his head sheepishly.

“Oh. Did Denki not...dammit. Shoulda just told you myself.”

A vein pulses in Katsuki’s neck and his shoulder tense. A sharp pain shoots through his shoulder and he hisses to himself and tries to ignore it. Told him what? Again he thinks of her and his heart races. He clenches his hands into fists in the dirt as small pebbles and mud wedge under his fingernails. Eiji wouldn’t forget to tell him if she was coming back and he damn sure wouldn’t leave it to Denki to tell him.

“What?” he growls and he doesn’t mean to. He tries to keep calm but the thought of her being at Toshi’s while he’s there working makes his blood boil.

Eiji winces and then in a small voice explains, “Well, I invited Minnie out to Toshi's tonight to get to know everyone. Like a welcome party.”

Katsuki doesn’t realize he’s holding his breath until he releases it through his nostrils in relief. Then he blinks and searches through his mind. He curls his lip and frowns. “Minnie? Who the fuck is—”

“The woman you’ve decided to hate for no reason.” Eiji interrupts in a stern tone.

Oh, it’s you. He should’ve known. Who else would Eiji have been talking about? You’re his new obsession it seems. Katsuki wonders what you said to him. How’d you get to be so unavoidable?

“Thought her name was… something else,” he mutters, looking away and reaching for another cucumber.

“You don’t even know her name yet? She’s been here over a month now!” Eiji exclaims. He’s tossed aside the shears now as he crouches in the dirt.

Shit, it’s already been a month? He hadn’t even noticed. It’s been a month and you seem to be thriving and providing no hints of leaving anytime soon.

“I told you I'm keepin’ my distance,” he grumbles.

“Your loss, man. She’s actually really cool and nice. Everyone really seems to like her,” Eijirou shrugs, stands, and dusts off his jeans.

“Everyone? Great, all of ya are gonna be so let down when she packs up and leaves without saying goodbye,” he pouts, grits his teeth while picking up the basket of cucumbers and shoving it into Eijirou’s arms. He starts back toward the house, wiping the sweat from his brow as he shakes his head in disappointment.

“She’s not Camie.”

Katsuki stops in his tracks and winces at the sound of her name. He hasn’t said it since she left, and has forbidden all of his friends from saying her name. With her name comes the stinging pain and regret, the tingling in his palm and fingers to be wrapped around the neck of a beer bottle, his clouded view when he read her goodbye note on the dining room table.

He spins around and stomps back toward Eijirou, a finger jamming violently into his chest as he snarls at him.

“Don’t fucking say her name again,” he seethes.

Katsuki watches Eijirou give him that stupid fucking pitiful frown again and it almost makes him sick. He whirls away from him stomping back toward his house. He’s winding thread around an unfinished fishing lure when he hears Eijirou enter the house. There’s a large apologetic sigh and then Eiji’s large hand is on his shoulder.

“Look man, just… come. Come to the party. I know you’re gonna be workin, but maybe the boss will let you off a little early. You’ll have a good time. It’ll give you a chance to meet her the right way.” He speaks softly, like he’s talking to a child and Katsuki knows he doesn’t mean to, it’s just how he’s always been. He holds the bridge of his nose with his two fingers contemplating the request.

Eiji has a point, if you aren’t as bad as he’s thinking, it’ll make shit easier for him. But if you are….

“I’ll think about it,” he settles, blowing out a defeated breath.

“There won’t be a bunch of booze.”

“I said I'll think about it, Ei.”

Eiji sighs again. He’s still holding the basket of cucumbers Katsuki shoved in his arms. “How much do I owe ya?” he asks, trying to lighten the mood.

“Don’t be fuckin’ stupid. Nothin’. You’re the only reason I grow the damn things in the first place,” Katsuki mutters. Eijirou chuckles and thanks him before turning to leave the house.

When Katsuki doesn’t hear the door close, he turns to see Eiji flashing him a wink.

“7PM. I’ll let Toshi know so he’ll let you off early.”

He growls as Eiji quickly shuts the door and dashes to his truck.

--

Thanks for reading!

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[andreafmn]

I'm Not Afraid - Chapter 1

Word Count: 3,325

Characters: Female Reader Argent Character, Original Male Argent Character, Derek Hale, Allison Argent, Scott McCall, Stiles Stilinski, Isaac Lahey, Lydia Martin, Chris Argent, Jackson Whittemore

Story Description: (Y/N) Argent arrived at Beacon Hills to put to rest her father's sister, Kate Argent. For the first time, her family has decided to settle down and sustain a life in this interesting small town. After 17 years, (Y/N) has the opportunity to establish interpersonal relationships but will she be ready to face the complications that come with relating to her cousin's, Allison, friends; especially, the infamous Derek Hale. She will face the adventure of being associated with the Derek and McCall pack as well as being faced with the discovery of certain aspects of her life she never imagined.

*DISCLAIMER* I do not own in any way Teen Wolf, all credits of the pre-established characters, script, and storyline belong to Jeff Davis and MTV Network. The only thing I own is Argent Reader insert, her immediate family, and her storyline, as well as her effects in the others' storyline.

Chapter: 1/?

Chapter Description: (Y/N) finally arrives at Beacon Hills for the funeral of her aunt and meets a certain wolf to which she feels a special connection.

A/N: Second fandom I'm writing for. I love Teen Wolf so much and the trope of hard Derek but only soft for you makes my heart sing. If you enjoy my writing I’ll also be posting them in AO3 and Wattpad along with other stories (I also hope to start taking requests if ya’ll want) Hope you enjoy and all constructive criticism is encouraged.

Next ->

Chapter 1

I hugged the black coat to my body as hard as I could whilst pushing through the sea of press. Our family's last name became quite known after the reports about my aunt, whose burial we were attending. She had allegedly burned down a house with people in it.  She killed them in cold blood. I hugged my grieving uncle and his less grieving wife, then my cousin who had a painful look on her face. I hugged her the longest. She let herself crumble on my arms, sobbing uncontrollably. Even though she was a horrible person she was still our aunt, family.

I took my seat behind Allison when my father, my mother, uncle Chris, and aunt Victoria stood up. Allison didn't lift her head and neither did I. I just tried to comfort her.

"It's been such a long time I don't expect you to call me grandpa." We both looked up to see a white-haired man who resembled the Argent features. "Don't worry about it, just call me Gerard." He hugged both of us, an overpowering aura emanating from his being. When we were engulfed, I looked to the side and saw two boys squatting behind a gravestone. If they were hiding, they were doing a horrible job at it.

"But I prefer Grandpa," Gerard said walking to his seat. I sat back down and drifted off during the whole ceremony. Once it was over, I joined my parents and we drove to our new house. I have a feeling that life here will be very interesting.

That weekend I decided that I had been putting working out off for too long. I changed into comfortable workout clothes and gave food to my dog, Brody. I headed out the door, put my earbuds on, and started to jog. I really didn't know where I was going since it was a new place for me, all I know is that I kept running until I reached the woods. The bad thing about this, I had no idea how to get back home. Even though I knew of this sidetrack and I knew I would be late to get back home, I kept running, needing a release from the mundane feeling of being new in town and having to reunite from our estranged family in a funeral.

I had gained a lot of momentum. God knows how fast I was running at this point that is until I hit something, it almost felt like a wall. When I looked up, I saw a very handsome guy. Spiked hair, green eyes, and slight stubble. If it weren't for the fact that I was already sweaty I would have started to sweat showers of how nervous I was. That is until he opened his mouth.

"Watch where you're going." He growled at me.

"How about you fucking move and not be a prick?" He looked at me with big eyes, probably in surprise, but quickly changed to his menacing look. Who was he trying to fool?

"Well, this is private property, which means that you're trespassing, meaning you should pay more attention to your surroundings."

"I'm sorry but a burnt-down house with almost no walls or roof is barely a property. So, how about you stop being an idiot and I can be on my way." I started to jog once again but he gained my attention once more.

"You're new here, aren't you?" I turned around to face him.

"What's it to you?" He raised his eyebrow.

"I'll take that as a yes." The cockiness oozed out of his pores.

"And why the hell should that matter?"

"Because no one would dare talk to me that way."

"Who would be afraid of a little sour wolf?" He tensed up. "Dude, chill. I'm just kidding. But I doubt anyone would be afraid of Mr...."

"Hale. Derek Hale." He said extending his hand to me. Gee, after screaming at me he wants us to be acquaintances. I thought about not shaking his hand, but I didn't want to be rude. Well, more than I have been already.

"(Y/N). Argent." I shook his hand. Strong grip. Suddenly I felt a rush of déjà vu; I had met him the day before. "Wait, aren't you that guy I accidentally hit with my grocery cart yesterday?"

"Yeah, that really hurt. You hit my ankle. You could've had me limping."

"But you're not, so be grateful I didn't break your ankle." He laughed. "Damn, if I had known how cocky you really were, I would've hit you harder."

"So, you admit that you hit me?"

"Oh yeah, of course, I hit you. Accidentally that is."

"Yeah, yeah."

I looked around trying to find where the hell I had come from but there wasn't even the slightest trail as to where I was to go.

"So, miss (Y/N). Do you even know your way home?"

"No, but I'm sure I can find my way back." Then, he took keys out of his pocket and pointed to his car.

"Come on, I'll drive you around and you just tell me when something seems familiar."

"And why should I go with the guy that almost ripped out my throat for bumping into him? For all I know you could be driving me to my death." I crossed my arms over my chest, and he let out a loud sigh.

"Look, I'm sorry for snapping. But I'm trying to be nice. That doesn't happen very often."

"Alright, Mr. Hale. I'll let you take me home just because you are being nice now, after being a prick, and I'm exhausted."

"See, no one can resist me." I rolled my eyes at his cockiness. Seriously does he buy cans of it on eBay?

"Don't get cocky with me. I can punch the living daylights out of you." He chuckled and started to drive.

We drove for about 20 minutes until I finally recognized the curb that led to my house. Upon arriving at my driveway, I got out of the car and walked to the driver’s side.

"Give me your hand” For some reason, I felt compelled to do so. He took a pen and wrote down a number. "Call me if you ever need a tour of the town."

Three weeks later, I walked inside the school to meet up with Allison. I moved here with my family since dad had some business taking float. Being the new kid in town is never fun. I would know. I switch schools almost every year. The pro and con about this would be not being attached to anyone. Usually, I'm the one who doesn't talk to anyone and is called a freak. A derogatory term given to people who are way too different from others, but a title I wore proudly.

"Oh my gosh, (Y/N)! How have you been?" Allison wrapped her arms around me and hugged me tightly. It was as if she hadn't seen me just three weeks ago.

"Hi, Allison. I've been good, getting acclimated to the new town. You?" You would think that because we were cousins, I would be more affectionate towards her but honestly, I wouldn't see her again for like three more years, so what's the point?

"I'm good. A little rocky at the start of coming here but good." Then, a boy with a buzz cut and one with great brown hair walked by and smiled at Alli. "Ooh, you should come meet my friends. Stiles, Scott!! Come here." The boys turned around with goofy grins on their faces.

"Hey, Allison. Who's this?" Buzzcut kid said.

"This is my cousin, (Y/N). She just moved here from Virginia."

"Pleasure to meet you. I'm Scott." The one with the great hair said.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Stiles." I shook their hands and smiled.

"Nice to meet you, too, buzzcut." Allison and Scott laughed but Stiles only ran his hand through his hair, suddenly becoming hyperaware of his lack of locks.

"Allison. Who might this sexy lady be?" I rolled my eyes. The last thing I need is a narcissist with a god-complex trying to get close.

"Oh, Jackson, this is my cousin, (Y/N)."

"Hi." He extended his hand and looked me up and down.

"Hi." I smiled sarcastically, and when I didn't extend my hand, he dropped his.

Finally, after standing awkwardly behind Allison whilst her friends talked, the bell rang. Talk about saved by the bell.

"Hey, (Y/N), what's your first class?" I checked my schedule.

"Um, chemistry."

"Oh, good, then you're coming with us to Mr. Harris' class," Scott said pointing towards him and Stiles. I smiled and walked behind them.

Once we got to the classroom everyone turned to me, the ever-present sign of being new in the class evident in the stare of my classmates.

"Um, hi, my name is (Y/N) Argent and I'm new." The teacher, whom I guess is Mr. Harris, turned around to face me.

"Oh, yes, Miss Argent. Welcome. You will be sitting next to Isaac Lahey. Lahey, raise your hand." Once Isaac raised his hand, I noticed he was sat near Stiles and Scott. Two people I was trying to avoid. As I walked past, I accidentally pushed Stiles' book on his lap, startling him, resulting in an awkward descent from his lab stool onto the floor.

"Hi, again. I guess we are gonna see a lot of each other for the rest of the school year." I nodded and he scratched the back of his neck. "So, um, what school did you come from?"

"Lancaster High," I responded whilst writing down what Mr. Harris was writing on the board. Stiles kept trying to talk to me, but I would only give him short, cold answers or just ignore him. That is until Mr. Harris called our attention, that's when he finally got the memo to shut up.

"I'm sorry to bother you, but I just wanted to introduce myself since we're gonna be seated next to each other all year. I'm Isaac."

"I figured." I tried giving him my best smile. The vibe he was giving off seemed like he needed it. "I'm (Y/N)."

"Well, nice to meet you, (Y/N). Now I'll leave you to the class because if I don't I know I'll be failing even more than I am."

"Oh, well, maybe I can tutor you some time. I'm actually really good at science. My mom was a chemist professor once upon a time so I'm bound to understand all this."

"Really?!" His puppy eyes seemed to light up and I nodded. "That would actually be amazing."

"Sure thing. Now let's get back to class."

After Chemistry finished, I put everything in my bag as quickly as possible and sped to my next class, Math. Thankfully, none of Allison's friends shared this class with me but I did share it with Isaac.  I didn't consider him much a friend but more an acquaintance in desperate need of help.

As the day progressed, I noticed the rest of my classes were shared with one or more of Allison's friends. They all tried to strike up a conversation but were quickly discouraged when met with my one-worded or vague answers. Especially, Stiles. He tried especially hard to get answers out of me, only being met with the occasional laugh or stare at his comical occurrences. He seemed like the kind of person you could just open up to. The same could be said about Scott. His shy nature was alluring, and he portrayed himself as a very trustworthy and loyal being.

But I would not allow myself to let them in. My whole being yearned for a real friendship, someone to share nothing and everything; never again.

At lunch, I sat outside and ate my food quietly, a book in front of my face to shield my eyes from the sun the prevalent stares of my peers. After some minutes of appreciated loneliness, the empty table was filled with conversating teenage bodies. I smiled politely but, in my mind, I was cursing them out.

"So, (Y/N), how's your day been?" Allison asked whilst munching on an apple. I swallowed what was left of my bite and answered.

"Fine, thank you." This time no one pressed on after my short answers, finally getting the hint of my disinterest. In the corner of my eye, I saw Isaac sitting under a tree munching on half a sandwich. I excused myself and went to join him, heavily enjoying his tranquil aura.

"Oh, hi, (Y/N)." He smiled sheepishly.

"Hey, Isaac. Is that all you're eating?"

"Yeah. I'm not very hungry." He looked down as if he were ashamed.

"Nonsense! Here," I gave him the other half of my burger and another bag of chips I had in my bag. "You can't tell me you're not hungry. You're a boy in peak development."

"Thanks." He smiled as he continued munching on his food. I put on some music and we continued eating in silence. No conversation required.

The day went on smoother than it started. Classes flew by fairly quickly and the incessant chit-chat seemed to diminish. During last period I was like every other student, anxiously waiting for the bell to signal the end of the school day. When my pleads were answered, I packed the necessary book into my bag and left the rest in my locker, expertly avoiding any more social encounters. Quickly, I made my way to the waiting open car door of my father's car, ignoring Allison's beckoning me t.wards the small group of friends.

"How was your first day, darling?" My father spoke up breaking my attention from the scenery.

"Like any other first day I've had." I smiled. "The towns might change but school is always the same."

Finally at home, we were greeted with the sight of my mother cooking; people were coming over.

"(Y/N), honey, Chris, Victoria, and Allison are coming over tonight. So, go do a quick workout and come back to get ready." I nodded and ran to my room to change into workout clothes.

My routine would normally consist of waking up, working out, go to school for a dreading eight hours, come back home, workout again, do my homework, eat, and go to sleep. I lead a very monotonous life and it had been this way since I could remember. One of my earliest memories was of my father teaching me archery alongside Allison, a great distraction to our always disrupted home life. As I got older, my father started training me in boxing and knife maneuvering. How would these skills help me in life were still a mystery but I felt safe knowing them.

I got changed and decided to take Brody out with me on a quick jog through the woods. "Hey, boy, ready to go?"

He jumped on me which I took as a yes and started for the woods. We ran down the same trail I had been going on for the past three weeks. Mostly, I went down this track in hopes that Derek would make an appearance, and today was not the exception. As the ruins of his house came to view so did his tall figure.

"Trespassing again?"

"It doesn't count if I know the owner." During our greeting, Brody's leash slipped out of my hand and he ran to jump on Derek, leaving slobbering licks on his cheek. "I'm so sorry."

"Don't worry about it." He chuckled and helped me bring him down.

"I guess he likes you, even though he doesn't like anyone but me. Guess you're special."

"Maybe." He grinned.

Out of nowhere, I hit him in the shoulder. "What was that for?!"

"For trying to run me over with your shopping cart two days ago. It was uncalled for."

"No, it was revenge. You hit ME first. In the ankle."

"You're still on with that. Come on, sour wolf. That happened three weeks ago, and it was an accident."

"Whatever. Come on, I'll give you a ride home. It's getting kind of dark." This had also become part of my routine. After "bumping" into Derek he would offer to drop me off at my house, claiming it was for security.

"Okay, we're here. By the way, the offer to show you around town is still up. Just call me whenever." He said as he stopped the car in front of my house.

"Alright, will do, and thanks for the ride, Derek. I'd invite you in, but my family is coming over."

"No worries, maybe another time."

"It's a date. Anyways, thanks again. See you when I see you."

"Okay, goodnight."

"Night." He waited until I entered the house and drove away.

"Munchkin, is that you?" My father screamed from the kitchen.

"Yeah!" I screamed back.

"Okay, well, go take a shower and get ready your uncle will get here soon."

I hurried up the stairs and hopped in the shower letting the hot water stream down my body calming any aching muscle that was palpitating. In my room, I searched through my closet for an acceptable family dinner outfit, deciding a grey sweater and black jeans would be enough. I braided my hair out of my face and went downstairs to help my mother set the table.

After we put the last plate the doorbell rang.

"I'll get it!" I ran to the door and was greeted by my uncle. "Uncle Chris!" I jumped and he hugged me. There was no doubt that he was my favorite family member, his presence was always welcoming. His wife on the other hand was as cold as the winters we spent in New York. She was nice but absolutely scary. "Hi, Aunt Victoria."

"Hello, (Y/N)." I hugged her and said hi to Allison.

"Come in, guys." They walked in and I closed the door behind them.

"So, (Y/N), how have you been?" Uncle Chris asked while stuffing his mouth with mom's famous lasagna.

"I've been good. I mean, moving all the time takes a toll on you at first, but I got used to it. It's easy now to pack it all up once the school year ends."

"Oh, honey, that must be so hard on you," Victoria said. I could not read her tone, her words spoke in sympathetic notes with an underlying melody of sarcasm.  Not knowing what to answer, I bit my lip and nodded.

The whole evening was spent on us catching up and eating, laughing, playing games, but the good times came to an end when the clock hit 9:00 pm. It was stupid to set a curfew, but my mom usually had everyone in bed at this time, 10:30 as of late.

"You better come around the house more often." Uncle Chris demanded and hugged me.

"Yes, sir." I raised my hand to my eyebrow and saluted, as did he.

"Let's go, Chris. And thank you for the lovely dinner, Rebecca," Victoria said linking arms with my uncle and smiling at mom.

"No problem. Come by any time." They talked for a bit more and after they left, I went upstairs to change for bed.

"Momma, I'm gonna go to sleep."

"Okay, honey. Goodnight." I went upstairs, brushed my teeth, and put my hair in a ponytail.

Before bed, I made sure everything I would need for the next day was packed into my bag and made sure my alarm was set. I pulled all the throw pillows from my bed and set them aside, then making my way to the window to draw the curtains. Something caught my attention in the backyard, though. My eyes squinted trying to make out the figure in front of me. Blinking the confusion away, I made a double-take and looked back at an empty yard. I laughed to myself as I crept into bed. Why would Derek be in my backyard?

Next ->

[spookysweet-heart]

Chance

Request: No

Fandom: Resident Evil

Pairings: Dimitrescu Girls x Fem!Reader

Warning: mention of a stab wound, homophobia.

A/N: Here's something to hold you over while I work on the commissions I have! I had an instant idea when I saw a prompt for coming out and having multiple people send the video of Lady Dimitrescu's voice actor saying Lady D supports gay rights! Happy Pride month everyone!!! Collage was made by me and this was edited by @semiproeagle!

You ran through the village you once called home, the shouts of the villagers ringing through your ears. This is what you were afraid of. You knew this would happen eventually, but you were hoping it would've taken a few more years, at least till you were able to move away. 

Putting pressure on the wound that was on your shoulder, you hissed, feeling the cold air hit your face as you climbed up the small steep hill that led to the entrance of Castle Dimitrescu. 

Stopping to catch your breath, you hunched over the open gate. You felt like your legs were about to give out. 

"There she is!" 

Turning your head, you saw the villagers running towards you with weapons. "C'mon, just...just a little further." 

Gathering your last bit of strength you could, you made your way to the castle door. Slamming your fist against it, you screamed out for help as the villagers started to get closer. Going to hit the door another time, you stumbled inside when the door opened, seemingly by itself. 

Falling to the floor, you turn to lay on your back. Your vision started to get blurry and you started to fade in and out of consciousness. The last thing you heard was footsteps approaching your body. 

"Mother! She's here! The woman we told you about!" 

"Daniela, keep it down, please. I'm trying to hear her heartbeat." 

"I'm pretty sure it's beating, Bela. She's still breathing, and pretty heavily, too." 

"Mother! Tell them to be quiet! I know she's alive! I'm trying to figure out how fast it's beating!" 

"Now girls, no arguing...Daniela, prepare a dish of warm water and get some clean rags. Cassandra, gather a fresh change of clothes for the girl." 

"Yes, Mother!" Both girls left Alcina and Bela at the front door to do as they were told. 

Alcina looked out the window, seeing the crowd disperse watching as some scowled or stuttered in fear of stepping too close to the castle. 

Turning back to Bela, Alcina glanced at the girl, seeing her chest rise and fall heavily and rapidly. "She's running a fever, mother." 

Alcina nodded. "Take her up to one of the spare rooms, I'll be right behind you." 

"Yes, Mother." Bela carefully picked you up in her arms, making sure you were as comfortable as can be before she started to move you even further. 

Stirring in your sleep, you quickly sat up, breathing heavily. Feeling your heart race in your chest, you placed a hand above it to help calm yourself down. 

Confusion was what you felt when you looked around, seeing you were in a very luxurious bedroom. You realized someone had changed you to a black silk lace nightgown. You shivered and winced in slight pain from your shoulder wound. You had been patched up in your sleep. 

Carefully stepping out of bed, you grabbed the white robe that was on the chair by the vanity. Slipping it on, you made your way out of the room. Looking on either side of the hallway, you heard laughter coming from your right. Following the sounds of giggles and wood crackling from a fire, you looked down, seeing four women. The one in white was sitting on the sofa, reading a book while the three in black were whispering to each other. 

Your head was spinning a little while you were focusing on the three that were by the fire, not noticing the fourth one looking at you. "Well, I see our little guest is awake." 

Startled, you quickly looked over at her. Your breath caught in your throat for a second when you saw her face. 

"Don't be afraid. You may come down here and join us." 

The three women looked up at you, their smiles wide as their eyes followed you while you slowly made your way down the staircase. 

Cassandra stood up just as you reached the last step. "Come sit with us! We prepared food and water for you. It's still very warm." 

Your cheeks turned a light pink when Cassandra grabbed your hand. Quickly pulling you towards the small table, you sat down between the other two. 

Fidgeting with your fingers, your eyes darted between everyone in the room before they landed on Alcina. 

Feeling a weight on your shoulders, you realized the anxiety you were feeling before was starting to bubble in your stomach again. 

Alcina looked over at you with a serious expression on her face before it softened when she saw how fearful you were. "If you're afraid that my daughters and I will do something to you, then have no fear. We won't." 

Surprised at this, you spoke up with a fragile voice. "Wh-why? I-I thought that-" 

"Stories are stories, my dear. Yes, we kill, but it's for survival. We don't kill for entertainment." 

"Oh...I'm sorry." Awkwardly picking up the glass of water, you drank some of it, welcoming the liquid that slid down your dry throat. 

Bela quickly refilled your glass before asking you a question. "Why did you run to our castle?" 

Daniela slid a plate of cookies towards you. "Why were your people chasing you? I saw you from one of the windows." 

"Oh, I-" Your chest started to feel tight, like your lungs were caving in. "Um..." 

Alcina rested her head on the palm of her hand. "It's alright. Nothing will harm you while you're here." 

Taking a deep breath in and out, you stared at the plate of food in front of you. "They....um. They caught me....kissing my friend- a former friend. She suddenly pushed me away and said I forced her to do it, and that I was mind-controlling her. I was stabbed in the shoulder, but managed to run away, and the only place I knew no one would follow me to was here. I'm sorry for trespassing. If you'd like, I will leave as soon as-" 

"No! You're injured, we wouldn't let a pretty lady out in the snow in your condition!" Daniela squeezed your hand when you jumped in your seat. 

"Of course you don't have to leave. Not with the way those barbarians treated you and, without hesitation, almost killed you over an accusation as wild as hers while you were just living your truth." Alcina stood, making her way to you. You stayed frozen in place when she knelt down, touching your unharmed shoulder. "This is your home now. Here in house Dimitrescu, we do not discriminate against anyone's sexuality, race, or gender. It's ridiculous in my opinion." She offered a warm smile. "This will be your new home, we'll protect you as a family should. So please, sweet girl, don't be afraid of us." 

Bela tugged on Alcina's sleeve. "Does that mean we get a new sister?" 

The four women all looked at you, waiting for a response. The tight feeling in your chest gradually went away with each breath you took. Your eyes started to water as everything became clear. "Yes! I would love that very much!" 

Bela, Cassandra, and Daniela all grinned while pulling you into a group hug, lifting you off the ground, and happy to have another sibling around.

[mrs-hollandstan]

Hey Brooke! It's been a long time I follow your blog but I never requested you anything. I was wondering if you could write smth for me w mob!Tom where reader's car starts catching fire bc of some sabotage and it ends up exploding what make Tom freak the hell out, but what he doesn't know is that she got to jump out of the car before it could explode? They didn't find her because she fell out of the road and she's hurt but she manages to call Tom? I'm so sorry it's long. I love your writing. xx

Ughhh this is angsty

A horrid clicking is what drew your attention. From beneath your radio. You understood what it meant from a number of films and the fact that your boyfriend was someone everyone in his business wanted dead. Or in pain. The latter was the goal this time around. You knew whoever it was would find you if you stopped at the side of the road and climbed out, so you gathered your things carefully, clutching them to your chest as the ticking grew louder and more frequent. It was now or never. The clicking stops just before you're jumping from the car, the force of the explosion propelling you down the side of the hill, dropping you into a small stream of water running down the mountain and in between the hills. You can feel the bumps and bruises, prompting you to lay in the little crevice a moment longer. 

Tom heard about the explosion. It was a car heading from his house and you hadn't gotten back to him. He'd paced until one of his men had come in and confirmed that the car had been yours. But they weren't sure if you were inside, 

"I'm going down to find her." Tom says, running a hand through his hair, 

"Tom-" 

"No… she wouldn't not call a-and if you're not sure there's a body she could be around there and I need to know and-"

"Boss-"

"Either one of you drives me or I'll drive myself." He growls in the face of one of his men. The darkness in his eyes draws Harrison into moving,

"I got it. C'mon Tom." He directs Tom towards the garages, hopping into one of the many SUV's,

"They wanted me. That's what they wanted. They want to get to me and she got caught up in it. Fuck! If she's dead it's my fault."

"Mate you couldn't have known they'd take her or try and kill her." 

"I did though. She's always at risk with me." Tom says leaning on his hand, elbow leaned on the windowsill. He sighs, 

"I don't even know what I'm gonna do if they got her. If they recover a body from that car I'll fucking snap." He tells his best friend who's always been able to calm him down. Tom closes his eyes, almost enough to be distracted when his phone vibrates in his pocket. He fishes it out haphazardly, as Harrison watches, and slides over on your picture, pressing the phone to his ear, 

"Baby… baby where are you?" 

"I'm okay. I uhm, I-I'm in this like little ravine thing right where the fire happened. I- I thought I was okay but I think my leg is sprained or broken. But I'm afraid they're going to find me." Tom points ahead and Harrison steps on the gas, speeding to the scene. Tom stays on the phone with you the entire way there, crying when you do and bolting from the car once Harrison brings it to a stop, 

"Tom!" He ignores his best friend's cries, skidding down the hillside and calling your name. He can hear you call back, and all Harrison can think about is how he doesn't think that Tom has ever dirtied his shoes like this. The things he'd do for you. You sit up finally from your place in the little groove you'd found, wrapping your arms around Tom when he crouches above you. He holds your body to his, 

"I'm never letting you go." He promises. You sob against his chest before Harrison comes barreling down the way, wild eyes locked on the two of you, 

"You okay babe?" He asks. You nod, holding a hand out for him. He takes it and he and Tom hoist you up, an arm draped over their shoulders as they escort you back to the SUV. Tom slides in the back with you, clinging to you as Harrison drives you back towards home. You hold his suit jacket, listening to him whisper how sorry he is. You glance up, Tom smoothing your hair down and rubbing his thumb across a dash of soot on your cheek. He kisses your forehead, 

"I don't blame you. I'm grateful to have someone like you." You reassure softly. He stares down into your eyes, leaning in to kiss your busted lip softly. Laying your head against his shoulder, he keeps his arms wrapped around you firmly. And in that moment, you genuinely believe that he would never let you go. 

[whosscruffylooking]

The Purest Things- Repeating History

Aaron Hotchner x Female Reader

Word Count: 2k

Warnings: Brief mentions of murder and alcohol. Canon typical violence.

A/N: this takes place during season 3 episode 11, birthright. i had a lot of fun studying this episode and making it my own. i have changed certain dialogue and who says what for the sake of the story. please enjoy!

The Purest Things Masterlist

(my gif! please credit if you use.)

january 2008

Syd Moore said, “Disregard for the past will never do us any good. Without it we cannot know truly who we are.”

+++++

Your alarm is often hushed before it even has an opportunity to set off nowadays because you usually wake up before it even has the chance.

4:25 A.M.

You groan and toss your pillow over your face. Maybe, just maybe, you can will yourself to sleep for a little longer. As if someone heard your pleas for slumber, your phone starts buzzing on your bedside table. Of course, it is unnecessary for you even to read the messages. There is a case.

+++++

"Last night in Fredericksburg, a 20-year-old woman, Molly McCarthy, was abducted," J.J. begins, "She's the third to go missing in the last 6 weeks. All disappeared from public places. No one's seen them since until now. A couple days ago, body parts with cigarette burns were recovered from a national park that was once the site of the battle of Chancellorsville."

"Were they able to make an I.D.?" you and Hotch ask simultaneously. Your eyes meet, but he breaks the contact abruptly. Flustered and insecure, you bury your focus deep into the file in front of you. The group discusses the case for a couple of minutes, but you are so concentrated on the papers that you hardly absorb any information they've shared.

There is something familiar about this case to you. Suddenly, realization strikes.

Rejoining the discussions, you say, "I remember reading about a case like this in Spotsylvania county. Similar markings on the bone. It was the winter of 1980, also in Fredericksburg. There were 5 women aged 16 to 24. They were buried in pieces."

"Same markings. Same civil war battlefield," J.J. responds in agreement.

The team agrees that this could be the works of the same killer. There are aspects of the more recent killings that would be impossible to copycat since those details had never been released to the public. But, if this is the same unsub, what's he been doing for the past 27 years?

+++++

Hotch focuses on the road while you watch out the window of the passenger seat. Occasionally, you sneak the odd peek at him. His stoicism is alluring, and you find yourself drawn to this demeanor like a moth to a flame. Piecing together the tiny glimpses you've collected thus far as if working on a mental puzzle, you scrutinize his attributes. His eyes bare the beginnings of crow's feet. Only his sideburns tease the speckling of salt and pepper undertones. His lips turn downwards at the corners, no doubt from years of scowling at unsubs.

Reid speaks up from behind you both and breaks your train of thought. Probably for the better, there's no reason why you should examine your unit chief so intently.

"It's funny--he always dumps the bodies in this battlefield, no matter what the risk."

"It's a respected landmark. He's flaunting," Aaron reckons.

"It makes him feel important," you say in agreement.  

Once you have arrived at the crime scene, you follow Agent Hotchner closely. Reid trails ahead, most likely trying to keep up with his own train of thought.

"How does someone not see or hear them?" You ask the sheriff.

He turns to you with a defeated expression, "It was dark. He had the advantage. Molly's boyfriend was the last person to see her. He said she was alone for a minute, maybe less."

Hotch surveys the surroundings, "He's patient and works fast."

"He's perfected his M.O.," Reid states while looking around.

You cross your arms as a wave of unease gets the best of you as you envision the moments leading to Molly's attack.

"If our unsub's pushing 60, he's gotta be strong enough to carry her a long way without her struggling," you bring out.

Hotch looks to you with a concerned squint. You shake your head, signaling to him that it's nothing you can't get under control. He nods in response. The sheriff agrees to point out the various entrances to the park.

"I'll catch up with you," your Unit Chief states. He motions for you to step aside with him, and you comply.

"You know, ever since my wife and I had our son, I dread receiving cases involving children," he discloses to you.

Tears well up in your eyes, "I can't even imagine, but sir, why are you telling me this?"

"This job will inevitably strike close to home on some cases more than others. It's okay for you to feel overwhelmed by it all every once and a while," he assures you.

"You never lose it, though."

He sighs heavily, "Maybe I should have."

Shortly before you joined the BAU, Hotch's wife Haley left with their son Jack. You never ask questions or stick your nose where it doesn't belong. It isn't your place, and you can't blame him for not wanting to bring his family struggles to work. He deals with enough broken families on the job as it is. Mixing his own personal life into the field would only make it more challenging to prioritize. Despite all this, you cannot help but wonder what exactly led to his and his wife's separation. You hope that they can find their way back to each other. The crimes you investigate do not need to claim the Hotchner's as victims as well.

+++++

"I'll let you talk to Chrissy Wilkenson," Hotch directs you towards the kitchen. You wipe your sweaty palms against the fabric of your pants and make your way into the kitchen, Hotch following closely behind you.

"Mrs. Wilkenson," you say gently, "My name is Y/F/N. I have just a few questions about your husband. Where does Charlie usually go when he's stressed?"

"The barn," she stutters. You can tell she's anxious and afraid for the well-being of her family.

"Anywhere else, Chrissy?"

Hotch is called into the other room, and you continue questioning Chrissy. She's becoming overwhelmed, so you guide her to the dining room.

"I know this is difficult, Chrissy."

"Did the father of my child really do that to those poor women?" She cradles her baby bump.

Your heart breaks for her, and you choose to remain silent. Sometimes saying nothing speaks louder than words.

Footsteps bound throughout the house, and Hotch appears in the doorway, "The sheriff will stay here with Mrs. Wilkenson. We need you with us."

Standing up from your chair, you place your hand atop Chrissy's, "History doesn't have to repeat itself." It is almost as if she could tell you were reading her thoughts. The endless whispers that cloud her mind making her feel like she's left with only one choice, but there's always another option. That is all you are trying to remind her of.

+++++

As you and your team trek through the forest, you see a clearing.

"Hotch, this way," you beckon him to pursue your course.

Suddenly, a gunshot rings out, and you stop in your tracks. You make eye contact with Hotch and mirror each other's actions, dashing towards the opening in the trees. Your heart pounds in rhythm with your footsteps colliding against the ground. It is clear to you from your exchange with Chrissy at the house that the origin of the gunshot will shock everyone but yourself. As you reach the clearing and rush down the hill, your speculation is validated.

Chrissy Wilkenson is standing over the body of her husband, the unsub. A traumatized young man haunted by his father's past and plagued by the idea that children are trapped in the endless cycles created by their parents.

I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Jesus. Now is not the time for that.

The newly widowed woman claims self-defense, yet the cops handcuff her anyways. Inside, you feel conflicted while watching her get into the back of the squad car.

Hotch appears by your side but remains silent. Again, sometimes silence speaks louder than words. You bit your lip, attempting to hide the fact that it is trembling.

"What did you say to her as you were leaving the dining room?"

"I told her that history does not have to repeat itself. I wanted her to know that even when it feels like you are backed into a corner, there is always another way out. Sometimes people don't know where to look for their out thought," you quiver.

He lightly touches your arm and gives you a reassuring tilt of the head, "Just know that you did everything you could. We will never do this job perfectly. Doing the right thing usually costs more than it pays. You did your part.  I'm not a saint, and I am far from a hero, but I have integrity and honor, and I do this job to the best of my ability."

"If you can leave a case with a clear conscience," he continues, "you know you did the best you could. Any other thought process will eat away at you slowly but surely, and ultimately, it will result in the demise of your career and destruction of yourself."

+++++

After a seemingly neverending day, you all arrive back at Quantico.

"I could really go for a drink, guys. What do you say? Newbie's buying," you wave your wallet around frivolously.

"I could go for 5 drinks!" Prentiss exclaims.

"Count me in," Morgan winks at you. He never fails to make you blush.

Reid hesitates and you pout your bottom lip, "Please Reid! How could you not want a repeat of Dolly Parton night last month?"

Hotch comes down the stairs, "Dolly Parton night? Do I want to know?"

You and Derek snicker to each other as Spencer attempts to diffuse his own embarassment.

"9 to 5 is an iconic female anthem that certainly has a rather bewitching affect on a man when mixed with alcohol."

"You only drank Diet Coke that night," you roll your eyes at him.

Out of the corner of your eye, you notice Hotch forcing his way through the small group formed around the desks.

Making your way over to him, you invite him to join, "Want a beer?" You second guess yourself, but it seems as though his rather stern expression softens ever so slightly when he pivots on his heels to look at you.

"I would like that," he answers softly.

He immediately returns to his original path and hovers near the glass doors. You casually make your way over to him, joined by Dave and Emily. A man barges in through the glass doors announcing Aaron's name.

"Agent Hotchner?"

"Yes," the subject in question breaths out almost defeatedly.  

The yellow package he holds in his hands is all too familiar and instantly churns your stomach into knots. You gnaw at your bottom lip, drawing a metallic taste that causes you to cringe.

"What is it?" Emily speaks up.

There's no question as to what it is. Oh Hotch. I’m so sorry.

Hotch's eyes trace the package from corner to corner in disbelief, "Haley's filing for divorce. I've been served."

When he eventually takes his eyes off of the lettering, his eyes meet yours. They lock onto you and it is in that moment that you feel as though you have been given the key to unlock his soul. His eyes are so unusual at this moment; they are more vulnerable than you have ever seen. The stoic man is gone, and instead, it is the eyes of one who is in tremendous pain. You had mistaken his bloodshot eyes for physical fatigue on the plane, but now you see that it is emotional exhaustion as well.

If only you knew how badly I want to hug you and tell you that you won't be swallowed up by this darkness. There's a long road ahead, but you have so many people here who love you and are here to support you through this. You aren't alone. Trust me, I know.

In some way, you pray that he can read into your soul and see the pain you feel for him. Once more, your shared silence proves to speak for itself.  

At last, he breaks eye contact with you and finally releases the breath that you had been holding in. Dave grabs onto your arm, seeing the clear impact Hotch's news has on you, no doubt having also noticed Hotch's immediate response in looking at you.

"I'm sorry, but I don't think I can join you tonight," he excuses himself and escapes to the seclusion of his office.

Maybe history does have a way of repeating itself.

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[who-am-i-no-one]

Emma. (2020)

I watched this movie in late January. After multiple viewings and re-reading the book, I have a lot of thoughts about this adaptation.

It seems rather strange, given that Emma is part of my holy trinity of Austen novels, that I didn't watched the most recent adaptation earlier. I think it was mostly due to my initial impression that Anya Taylor-Joy's otherworldly looks didn't quite match what I had in mind for the titular character. I decided to give this version a try after watching Queen's Gambit. Not sure that Anya's looks will ever grow on me, but she did impress me as a young actress who seemed to have a maturity beyond her years.

Long story short: really wished I had seen this movie earlier! It is absurd and heartfelt at the same time, imo, the version that best imbues Austen's humor. It is now my favorite adaption, with the possible exception of Clueless, and I'm not quite sure how much of that is just nostalgia.

From the casting to the direction to the script to the costumes to the set to the soundtrack, I could tell the creative team really put a lot of love into this project. It's always a joy to watch something that's made with love and made well.

Direction

Autumn de Wilde's directing is quite good. I would never have thought this was her first feature. She certainly has a unique and colorful style, which is probably to be expected for such a famous photographer.

Funnily, while watching the movie I kept thinking it reminded me of early Hollywood romantic comedies like Bringing Up Baby (incidentally one of my favorites) or The Philadelphia Story, and then reading interviews and seeing that she had tried to bring in some of that style of humor made me feel rather validated. Also the servants' reactions were awesome!

Absolutely loved the fact that they decided to show that Knightley and Emma were in love with each other very early on in the story, with Knightley more aware of it. I've read some people complaining about the surprise of Emma's being in love being ruined. But come on, did anyone reading two chapters into the book think it wasn't going to be the two of them together in the end?

Loved how much of Knightley's point of view we got in this movie. This is one repressed pinning man. I can totally see this Knightley riding ventre a terre from London in the rain because he thought Emma was heartbroken.

The only gripe I had was the lack of Frank and Jane's subplot. As it seems they shot some scenes for that, I assume it was the director's discretion to take them out. I remember thinking while watching the movie that they must have expected the audience to be familiar with the story because some things just didn't really get explained or extrapolated on a lot. If you hadn't read the book it'd be 30 minutes or more into the movie before you put two and two together and figured out why Mr. Knightley is always at Hartfield.

Script

The script takes most of the dialogue directly from the book, which is awesome. I love Austen's writing because there is a certain musicality to it and retaining that in large part for the movie really made it better for me. The deftness with which Eleanor Catton moved dialogue from one scene in the book to a totally different one in the movie was quite brilliant. Everything flowed so well.

The scenes that differed from the book were also excellent - namely, I really loved the Jane/Knightley duet, the infamous nosebleed and first kiss scenes. 💖 I thought the screenwriter used those changes to quickly establish plot points and character arcs well.

Costume/Hair

Not a Recency expert so can't say much about the costumes and hair as far as period correctness but from reading other reviews it seemed like they were very true to the period. Obviously appreciated them taking the time to show the audience how men got dressed in that time (purely for research purposes obviously 😜).

Emma's dresses were all quite beautiful. I especially loved the black evening dress, the pink one with the roses and the proposal dress. Also loved the little pop of red shoes that went with the proposal dress. As someone who wore red shoes with her wedding gown I heartily approve.

Absolutely loved how Emma's curls unwound as her life unravels. Similarly think they must have done the same for Knightley to a lesser extent. His hair during the card playing scene at the Westons was quite terrible.

Set

I! Loved! Hartfield! It looked just like a doll house. Really most of the sets looked good enough to eat. So much pastel. Reminded me of French macarons.

I liked how everything in Donwell Abbey was shrouded in Holland covers. Makes a good point that Knightley barely lives there at all, that his home has been with the Woodhouses for quite a while now. Which, of course, makes his sacrifice at the end just a little bit less of a sacrifice?

Soundtrack

Isabella Waller-Bridge's music really meshed well with the tone of the entire film. The male and female opera singers, sometimes sounding as if they are bickering with each other and other times seeming to be in duet, was a brilliant touch. The folk music was a little jarring at first but really grew on me.

Johnny Flynn's end credits song "Queen Bee" is amazing. I love that we get Knightley's perspective at the end with a song written and sung by Knightley. It's a lovely coda to the movie. And now, if the next Austen hero doesn't write one for his SO I'm going to think him a very poor sort of lover.

Cast

Anya's Emma was really great. I'm glad they allowed Emma to be her bitchy self. Lol. I haven't watched the 1996 and 2009 versions in a while but I distinctly remember them making Emma too nice. I recall writing after watching the Garai version that Emma was actually mean and they should have let her be mean! If she's not a brat in the beginning, how will we see her change for the better later on? I love what a snob and how manipulative this Emma was and so assured of her place in her little society but still had the vulnerability of almost an imposter's syndrome which I feel most people can relate to.

Her chemistry with Johnny Flynn's Knightley was off the charts. Pretty much every scene they had together I half expected them to reenact the library scene from Atonement lol.

Mia Goth was a wonderful Harriet. She really captured Harriet's inexperience, naivete and diffidence. The orgasmic sounds she was making during the gypsies attack scene were awesome. Although, I could probably have forgone a few of Harriet's scenes for more Frank and Jane.

Not sure why they made Mia go brunette since the book specifically mentioned Harriet was fair? Perhaps having all three leads as blondes was just a bit too much. I'm also not sure if I liked Harriet's ending as I really don't think Emma, even in her most contrite mood, would invite further friendship from a tradesman's daughter and soon-to-be her husband's tenant farmer's wife. This seems a piece of modern day wishful thinking on the part of the creative team.

Bill Nighy was so good as Mr. Woodhouse. He made it so believable why everyone would do everything in their power to accommodate his whims. The gag with the screens was too funny. He was able to sketch out a lonely quirky old man who is afraid to lose those close to him in very limited screen time. Absolutely loved the scene where Emma was heaping blame on herself and he just sat with her in sympathetic silence.

Miranda Hart's Miss Bates was excellent as well. She has long been one of my favorite British comedic actresses but she can also do drama well. Her reaction to Emma's teasing on Box Hill and her forgiveness of Emma later brought me to tears.

Josh O'Connor's Mr. Elton was deliciously creepy. The carriage proposal scene was at once a little scary and hilarious. I actually liked the portrait scenes a little less because I found the acting there slightly affected and veering into 1995 Mr. Collins territory. But as Austen described Elton as having "a sort of parade in his speeches", this was much more forgivable. Really loved Mr. Elton's determination to eat cake during the Eltons' visit to Hartfield.

Tanya Reynolds was an excellent Mrs. Elton and in very little screen time was able to bring to life this meddlesome nouveau riche. Adored her little shimmy during the ball.

Amber Anderson's Jane really looked as if she were in a decline. Callum Turner did a good job as a slightly restless, mischievous and immature Frank Churchill. I did feel his looks were a bit too modern but that's just my personal view.

Given how many scenes they had I thought they used the time they had pretty well with furtive glances and sly smiles at each other to establish the relationship.

Connor Swindells was such a love sick puppy as Robert Martin. Did this role ever get cast in other adaptations? I don't seem to recall at all.

Special shoutout to Oliver Chris's John Knightley. Absolutely had me in stitches.

And last but never the least, Johnny Flynn's Mr. Knightley:

To preface, I will never not fall for Mr. Knightley in any version that I watch. And really, get yourself a good looking enough actor with good enough chemistry with Emma and good enough acting chops and you should have a fairly successful Knightley.

I judge all my Knightleys by the Box Hill scene. And up to that point in the movie, I really liked Johnny Flynn's Knightley. He was playful and sexy and jealous and slightly bitchy as well. The duet scene was lovely because I always appreciate a man who can play instruments and sing well. The sexiness and chemistry of the dance scene was off the charts. That's all well and good. And like I said before, given any well cast actor, I probably would have liked them in those scenes as well, just as I've liked Northam's and Miller's Knightleys.

But, the Box Hill scene absolutely blew me away. To make sure I was not just biased towards the last Knightley I saw on screen, I did go back and compare each version's Box Hill scene and I am, actually, even more blown away. Some of it is a credit to the directing and script, but a large part of it is Johnny Flynn's acting in that scene.

As far a script and directing, the set up to the fight scene was fantastic. Loved Anya's expression changes after she makes the joke. Loved Miranda Hart's Miss Bates as she realizes what Emma meant. The silence that followed. Knightley's shocked face and how sympathetic he was to Miss Bates. Can probably write a whole thing just about this scene alone.

I loved the fact that Knightley had an internal struggle as to whether or not to approach Emma and reproach her for her behavior. I know the book has him tell Emma about his struggle but that just doesn't work as well for me on screen.

During the scene you can just tell how frustrated and disappointed in her he is even though he tries to keep his voice low. But the way he reprimands her does not at all feel lecture-y and I feel like part of it is because it seems like he starts to lose control a little bit as well. His voice starts to crescendo as she stubbornly refuses to admit she was in the wrong and culminates in "badly done, indeed!" with actual fingerpointing. Yikes.

Then he losses steam and looked regretful, almost devastatingly so, at his own outburst and perhaps felt that he was losing her by giving this speech and looked as if he would have said something more - an apology or some words of comfort to soften the blow? - but didn't.

This remorse and the struggle at the beginning really bookended the scene for me.

Absolutely loved his Knightley, and, really, him as an actor after that.

The proposal scene as well was very good. His delivery was just really good. The way he said "If I loved you less then I might be able to talk about it more." with some regret and then closing his eyes as if he can't believe what he just said. Soooo good. Also, he cries very pretty, lol.

The delivery of the three "yes" during the kiss scene as Emma asked for confirmation that he really was ok with giving up his house to come live with them was also brilliant. It just kept getting softer and softer but he never breaks eye contact. Absolute chef's kiss. His closed eyed little smile of content after Emma kisses him just made me melt into a puddle.

Yup, overall I'd say I rather liked his interpretation of Mr. George Knightley. 😜

I did wish they hadn't giving him such sideburns but after watching some Emma interviews I can totally understand. If he didn't have the sideburns there'd be more complaints about how young this Knightley was. He's got such a baby face.

...I seemed to have written an entire essay on this movie...yeah, I just have a lot of feelings and thoughts about this version...