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So I'm shit at math. I have a really hard time with math and my learning disabilities don't make it any easier.
I find this whole "girl math" thing overall to be infantilizing and even creepy at times.
Firstly I'm an adult not a child. We are all adults not children so why must everything we do be girl things.
Second of all why is the assumption that only women do this. Anyone across the gender spectrum can view their spending in this way.
Like when I can I like to hide $5 in my wallet and in the pockets of my handbags, and the forget I put them there. The idea is to think of them as surprise money to my future self.
Is it really surprise money when I put it there and it is money that I already had, not really. But it still feels nice.
Is that now "girl math". No, it is just something I do when I can.
I also hate this "girl dinner" just call it what it is snacking. The thing with "girl dinner" is that I feel like by calling it that it can be used to cover for things that can be concerning/when someone is struggling and needs help. Like if someone is not really eating do some ongoing health issue be it mental or physical or both.
This whole calling tiktok thing of calling where everything is "girl math" "girl dinner" and girl this and girl that is this gross way reminds of when Bic tried to sell pens for women. It was called Bic for Her and they came in soft pinks and purple colors.
Well it failed miserably and was mocked. Because pens exist and there are many different kinds of pens to address various grip styles, writing styles, and even hand sizes. So any need or concern you might have you can find a pen or pencil that is right for you, there is no need for your gender to come into the mix at all.
Stop trying to sell me pens for women, I'm good thanks. Stop trying to sell me on girl math, I've already got math. Stop trying to sell me on girl dinner, I've already got snacking and dinner.
Sorry to be that person, but "girl math" doesn't mean "girls are bad at math". It's a way of saying "how many women use math irl"
Like "If I get hit with armor, it doesn't count because my health remains the same"
Or "I returned $30 and spent $5, that's a net positive, so I basically got this for free"
Not that girls literally don't understand math and don't get that things cost money. It's a simplification of thought processes and analysis, actually implying high-level thinking, not "girls are so bad at math we don't even try"
I know, it's not that serious, but taken out of context it sounds worse than it is.
ohhhhhhhh my god you cannot make“teehee girls just use a different kind of math around shopping to justify buying more stuff cause they’re girls using girl math” into a feminist statement it IS an actual problem to ascribe not only gender (woman) but childishness (girl) to poor financial literacy and say that the kind of math girls do is actually exclusively related to the domestic sphere when we talk about shopping or buying food or presents or little treats. Do you fucking hear yourself
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2024 BL - Top 10 Trend Report
In last year's rend report I said:
"I think Taiwan has the chops to give us something as good as The 8th Sense or Old Fashion Cupcake but in their style, and I would like to see them exercise their talent for good rather than just profit."
And Unknown happened.
I asked for it, they gave it to me. I could not be more happy. So anyway, I just wanted to crow a bit.
And now...
2024's TRENDS!
1 Trope Subversion Levels Up
My Stand In went so far as to subvert the whole damn romance genre. But in general we saw a lot of BL recognizing, highlighting and calling out it's own absurdities and tropes. From Korea commenting on the Dead Fish Kiss to Wandee Gooodday actually promoting green flag behavior (the real deal).
It was an interesting year for meta commentary, it kind of whole scale left parody behind (say goodbye, Japan) and entered almost every BL from Thailand, even the ones who should have left it alone. (Side eyes Mame.)
2 Old Tropes Revisited
Unknown revisited the step-brother trope (as did Addicted Heroin of course). But there were other old ones we haven't seen in ages, like kidnapping for love, kissing on rooftops, and all the dub con (Blossom). Love Sick rebooted with very little modernization (except where it counted) right up to and including no kisses. Mix Up even did "trapped on the rooftop" which I haven't seen in over a decade.
And then Wimpy dropped. And it felt like I was reading yaoi in my tiny attic bedroom in the 90s.
3 BL Enters All the Workplaces
I love how many adult leads and sides we are getting, even from Thailand. By which I mean, BL outside of a school setting. We still have high school and university set stuff, but that used to be ALL we got. I don't mind school settings, but I like that we have some kind of balance going on these days.
We are starting to get not just cubicles and offices (as Japan foretold) but all kinds of workplaces from retail to authors to the film industry.
4 BL Passes the Sniff Test
He smells good has always been a trope that I love. It was one of my favorite things about Bad Buddy. But this year it felt like every third BL trotted this one out. I was delighted by it. Of course I was. But it happened A LOT.
Century of Love was a key use of it since smell is so coupled to memory, I thought they dealt with it particularly well. But even Japan and Korea deployed the sniff test.
(Seoul Blues)
(Blue Boys) Same actors, different characters.
Pitt Babe
Century of Love
Meet You at the Blossom
Soul Blues
Blue Boys
Dangerous Romance
This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans
Cosmetic Playlover
Sunset X Vibes
Monster Next Door
Secret Love
Perfect 10 Liners (technically a 2025 show, but the sniff happened in 2024)
5 Fewer Shipper Characters within BL
Negative trends are always harder to call (it's easier to track the presence of something over the absence) but I'm still calling this one.
In a discussion of The Shipper @heretherebedork and I got into a discussion about this. It really seems like both we are getting less "female shipper" characters and/or they are evolving into overly interested but very supportive female friends instead. Softening, if you will.
I think partly this is because there has been a general decline in this archetype in yaoi over the past 5-10 years, but also they tend to incur pretty bad reactions in fans, and Thailand (especially) tends to pay attention to that kind of thing.
Unfortunately this also means we are seeing a worsening of the "no female representation at all" backbone of BL. We Are, which I loved, didn't have a single female character. Not even a throw away.
6 The rise of the green flag seme!
The seme (active attacker in the relationship) got a lot of green flag action this year. We saw lots of Dommy boys, Daddy types, and players asking for permission, trying to communicate, talking about safe sex. Particularly out of Thailand.
To make sure this is clear, green flag means he communicates about the relationship and sex, takes no for an answer, asks for permission for (almost) everything, and doesn't do things like (just spitballing here) take a hotel room key and go into the other mans private room when he's not around (or asleep). Okay? Christ on a cracker. (When it comes to flags Mame has red/green colorblindness.)
Some examples:
Alan from Pit Babe
God from Monster Next Door (except for the one journal reading incident)
Sun from Sunset X Vibes (almost too far)
Yak from Wandee Goodday
Latte from Knock Knock Boys
7 Japan Came to PLAY
Japan came to play and will not leave the field that they built. I may not always like JBL, but when I love it, I REALLY LOVE IT, and when it hits it hit hard (pain or joy). And even when I don't like it, it always gives me a lot to think about.
We had 19 JBLs in 2024:
Sahara-sensei to Toki-kun
At 25:00, in Alaska
Dominant Yakuza and Wimpy Corporate Slave
I Became the Main Role of a BL
Love in the Air: Koi no Yokan
Takara's Treasure
Although I Love You and You
I Hear the Sunspot
Living With Him
Love is Better the Second Time Around
Love is Like a Poison
Perfect Propose
Cosmetic Playlover
Sugar Dog Life
0.5D
Let's Eat Together Aki and Haru 2
Mitsuya-sensei no keimakutekina ezuke
Happy of the End
Ossans Love Season 2
Japan had 18 total BLs in 2023.
17-15 in 2022 (a couple I couldn't get hold of and a couple I just don't think are BL, so 2022 is vague).
7 in 2021. <- THAT was when the big jump occurred, 3 years ago. Which might have more to do with the pandemic than anything else.
But back to now: 19 in 2024 means they are actually just increasing their production gradually and in a steady way, as might be expected. In round numbers we didn't see anything unusual.
BUT
The series they've been airing in 2024 are running longer (for them) and being aired over longer periods of time. Not to mention getting better and quicker distribution.
By which I mean, Japan used to have more shorts and movies, less actual series with full run times (by their & Korea's BL industry length standard) on streaming platforms. So I think it's JBL runtime and distribution that is experiencing real growth. And the consistency of that runtime.
In other words, it feels like there are more JBL airing because we have access to most of them (for a change) and they're running long enough to cross into each other (which has been rare in the past).
What's almost more interesting to me is...
8 What the hell happened, Korea?
Korea cut back on their BLs in 2024. I am not sure if that's money drying up, a crack down within the industry over there, the political situation, or something else.
Still, it was wild to see such a stark fall off in production. They had 18 BLs in 2024 but fully half of them were shorts, and more than half were poor production quality than is prior standard. By contrast they had 21 in 2023, but only 1 was a short, and most were very high production (getting 8/10 or higher from me).
Since Korea tends to produce some of my favorite shows, it's no surprise I had no 10/10 BLs at all in 2024 with so little KBL's stepping up to the plate.
I sure hope this isn't a trend but it feels like it might be.
9 Why the hell is the not-kiss back?
Korea doubled down on being a pain in 2024 by bringing back the "they don't actually touch lips and we pretend they did by panning around the back of the head" with the camera. (Jazz for 2 sides, example. Yes, I'm still mad.)
Then Thailand did the with Addicted Heroin. AND with Love Sick.
What is this, 2016?
Color me annoyed. I thought we saw the last of that nonsense with Make It Right.
I remind you all, if they would kiss if they het but they don't kiss when they gay, it smacks of a phobia and I'm salty about it.
Yes yes, there are actor (idol, age) excuses in play. But they should cast differently if this is going to be a problem.
End of discussion.
No really, I don't wanna talk about it. I just want it to go away.
10 The rise of Great Grandmas
We have had cool grandmas before in BL but in 2024 we had so many of them. The Sign, Love for Love’s Sake, Monster Next Door, Jack & Joker, Every You Every Me, The Rebound, Wandee Goodday.
(thanks to @small-dark-and-delicious for bringing this one to my attention)
See the comments for additional discussion of the "why" behind some of these trends as well as a few I missed.
(source)
2023's Trends report here.
#2024 bl#bl round up#2024 bl trends#trend report 2024#unknown the series#taiwanese bl#japanese bl#korena bl#what happened to korean bl?#My Stand In#wandee goodday#Century of Love#thai bl#daouoffroad#green flag seme#jazz for two#grandma in bl#bl grandma
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🎮On Off On🎭
Part-Time Lover | JxW - masterlist
⚠️ WARNINGS ⚠️: emotional tension, love triangle (we're getting serious), jealousy, angst, possessiveness, unresolved feelings, conflict, intimate situations, mature themes (smut), emotional hurt/comfort smut warnings: kissing, oral sex (f & m receiving), unprotected sex (fictional! not ideal IRL), rough sex (explicitly described thrusting, intense actions), overstimulation, desperate kisses, tension-filled build-up, power dynamics (m dom), creampie (fictional context), consent (implied and verbal), emotional vulnerability (expressed through intimacy), body worship and attention to physical details, breath play (heavy breathing, audible reactions), dirty talk, descriptive sexual acts (explicit descriptions of genital stimulation), post-coital intimacy (gentle moments after sex) wc: 10,994 ♪ playlist ♪ : adore you (harry styles), into you (ariana grande), slow hands (niall horan), you (the 1975) a/n: pls i think i made this shit messier. im gonna die wtf im just warning that its too much drama so read at your own risk (please enjoy tho ! dont let my own words deceive you lmaooo)
06
It started with little things. The way Jeonghan's gaze lingered a moment too long when he thought you weren't paying attention, the way he seemed to show up at your workplace more often—always with some excuse. "I was in the area," or, "I needed your opinion on something."
Today was no different.
You were packing up for the day when Jeonghan strolled in, hands casually tucked into the pockets of his coat. His hair looked freshly styled, loose waves framing his face in a way that made it impossible not to notice how effortlessly good-looking he was.
"You're getting predictable," you teased, slinging your bag over your shoulder. "What's the excuse this time?"
Jeonghan grinned, unfazed. "No excuse. I figured you'd want coffee after work. Am I wrong?"
You narrowed your eyes at him, pretending to consider. "Not wrong, but suspiciously convenient."
He simply held the door open for you, his smile widening. "I'll take that as a yes."
The café was one of those cozy, dimly lit spots with worn leather chairs and the faint scent of cinnamon lingering in the air. You'd been here before with Jeonghan, but today it felt different.
He ordered your usual without asking, then led you to a corner booth, his easy demeanor masking something unspoken.
"So," he said, leaning back in his seat as the two of you waited for your drinks. "How's everything going? Work, life... Wonwoo?"
You froze mid-reach for a napkin, your fingers curling back as you met his gaze. His tone was casual, almost too casual, but there was a glint in his eye—mischievous, probing.
"Wonwoo?" you echoed, feigning innocence. "Why are you bringing him up?"
Jeonghan shrugged, his expression unreadable. "No reason. Just curious."
The barista arrived with your drinks, breaking the moment, but the tension lingered. You stirred your coffee absently, unsure how to respond.
"We've just been hanging out," you said finally, keeping your tone neutral. "It's not a big deal."
"Hmm." Jeonghan's lips quirked upward, though his eyes remained sharp. "It's funny. I don't think I've ever seen him so... animated. He must really enjoy your company."
"Jeonghan," you said, a warning laced in your tone.
He leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the table. "Relax, I'm just teasing. But..." He trailed off, studying you with an intensity that made your pulse quicken. "I wonder what he'd say if he knew about us."
Your breath caught, the words hitting like a subtle jab and lingering in the air. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Jeonghan tilted his head, his expression unreadable yet impossibly confident. "It means I think he'd be curious. Maybe even a little jealous."
You scoffed, though the heat rising to your cheeks betrayed you. "There's no us, Jeonghan. You're just stirring the pot, as usual."
"Am I?" he asked, his tone softer now, almost teasing. "Or are you just trying to convince yourself of that?"
Your heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, you couldn't find the words to reply. He leaned back again, taking a sip of his coffee as if he hadn't just flipped your world upside down.
The conversation shifted after that, easing into safer territory—shared stories, light jokes, and discussions about work. But his earlier words lingered in the back of your mind, their weight impossible to shake.
As you walked out of the café together, the cool evening air biting at your skin, Jeonghan slid his hands into his coat pockets, his gaze fixed ahead.
"By the way," he said suddenly, his voice breaking the silence. "You've been distracted lately. Is something on your mind?"
You hesitated, your grip tightening on your bag. "Not really. Just... a lot going on."
He nodded, his expression unreadable once again. "Well, whatever it is, don't forget I'm here. You don't have to figure everything out on your own."
There it was again—that maddening ability of his to slip past your defenses without even trying. As much as you wanted to brush him off, the sincerity in his tone made it impossible.
"Thanks," you said quietly, your voice barely above a whisper.
Jeonghan turned to you then, his smile soft and almost wistful. "Anytime."
And just like that, the moment was over. But as you parted ways, his words echoed in your mind, leaving you more confused than ever.
That evening, as you settled into your couch with a blanket and your phone, you couldn't shake Jeonghan's words from earlier. "I wonder what he'd say if he knew about us..." They replayed in your mind, making it harder to focus on anything else.
You sighed, running a hand through your hair. It wasn't like Jeonghan to speak so candidly—or maybe it was, but this time it felt different. Intentional. And the worst part was, he wasn't entirely wrong.
Your phone buzzed on the armrest, snapping you out of your thoughts.
Wonwoo.
The notification was simple:
Wonwoo: Hey, you free right now?
A small smile tugged at your lips despite everything. There was something about the way Wonwoo messaged you—straightforward, no games—that felt grounding.
You: yea what's up? Wonwoo: Feel like getting some air? I'm parked outside.
Your heart skipped a beat. It wasn't the first time he'd done this—shown up unannounced but with impeccable timing, as if he knew exactly when you needed a distraction.
You: give me five
When you stepped outside, Wonwoo was leaning against his car, hands tucked into his hoodie pockets, the cool night air making his breath visible. His gaze softened when he saw you, and he straightened up, opening the passenger door with a quiet, "Hey."
"Hey," you replied, climbing into the car. "You always this spontaneous?"
He chuckled as he slid into the driver's seat, the sound low and warm. "Only with you."
Your cheeks warmed at his words, but you brushed it off, letting the quiet hum of the car's engine fill the space.
"Where are we going?" you asked after a moment, glancing at him.
"You'll see," was all he said, a small, knowing smile playing on his lips.
The drive was peaceful, the city lights giving way to quieter streets as he took you somewhere more secluded. When he finally pulled over, you realized he'd brought you to a lookout point overlooking the city.
The view was breathtaking, the skyline glittering like stars on the horizon. Wonwoo turned off the engine but left the music playing softly in the background—a familiar tune you couldn't place but found comforting.
He leaned back, resting his arm along the top of his seat as he turned to you. "You've been quiet."
You hesitated, your fingers fidgeting with the hem of your sleeve. "Just... thinking."
"About Jeonghan?" he asked, his tone carefully neutral.
Your head snapped toward him, eyes wide. "What makes you think—"
"You're bad at hiding it," he interrupted, his lips quirking into a faint smile. "And Jeonghan's been... different lately."
You let out a dry laugh, shaking your head. "I don't even know how to explain it. He's always playing these mind games, making me second-guess everything."
Wonwoo's gaze darkened slightly, his usual calm giving way to something sharper. "That's just how he is. But if he's messing with your head, maybe you should take a step back."
You stared at him, surprised by the edge in his voice. "Why do you care so much?"
He didn't answer right away, his jaw tightening as he looked out at the city. When he finally spoke, his voice was quieter, almost hesitant. "Because I don't want to see you get hurt. Not by him. Not by anyone."
The weight of his words hung in the air, and for a moment, neither of you said anything. Then, almost on instinct, you reached out, your fingers brushing against his hand where it rested on the console.
"Wonwoo..."
He turned to you, his eyes searching yours, and suddenly the space between you felt impossibly small. You didn't know who moved first—maybe it was him, maybe it was you—but before you could think, his lips were on yours.
The kiss was slow at first, careful and deliberate, as if testing the waters. But then his hand moved to cup your face, his thumb brushing against your cheek, and something shifted.
You leaned into him, your fingers tangling in the fabric of his hoodie as the kiss deepened, all the confusion and tension of the past few days melting away in the warmth of his touch.
His lips moved with ceratainty, tongue seeking entrance to your mouth. You opened it for him, and that's when your tongues felt like they were tangled.
It was then when he adjusted to lean closer to your seat to kiss you better from different angles, leaving your lips all swollen and red, not because of the lipstick, but because of how he nipped and sucked at your lips like it's the last thing on earth to do.
When you finally pulled away, breathless, he rested his forehead against yours, his eyes still closed.
"This isn't just attraction anymore," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "At least not for me."
Your heart pounded in your chest, the weight of his confession crashing over you. You wanted to say something, anything, but the words caught in your throat.
Because as much as you wanted to deny it, part of you knew he was right.
The night felt quieter than usual as Wonwoo drove you home. The streets were empty, bathed in the soft glow of streetlights, and the silence in the car was heavy, not uncomfortable but laden with unspoken words.
"Thanks for tonight," you said softly, breaking the quiet.
Wonwoo glanced at you briefly, his profile illuminated by the passing lights. "Anytime," he replied, his voice calm but distant, as if there was something on his mind.
When he pulled up in front of your place, neither of you moved to get out right away. The stillness stretched on until you finally turned to him, your curiosity getting the better of you.
"Wonwoo, are you okay?"
He let out a soft laugh, though there was no humor in it. "Am I that easy to read?"
"Kind of," you teased gently, hoping to lighten the mood.
But he didn't smile. Instead, he turned to face you fully, his dark eyes searching yours. "I'm not good at this... saying how I feel. But tonight, being with you, it just... felt different."
Your breath caught in your throat, the weight of his words sinking in. "Different how?"
"The way I look at you... it's not just about attraction anymore," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. His hand reached out, hesitating before brushing a stray strand of hair behind your ear. "It's more than that. You make me feel things I wasn't prepared for."
The vulnerability in his voice made your chest tighten. You wanted to say something, but the words escaped you. Instead, you leaned forward, your lips finding his in a kiss that started slow, careful, deliberate.
His hand cupped your face, his thumb brushing against your cheek as the kiss deepened. It felt like all the confusion and tension of the past few days melted away in the warmth of his touch.
When you finally pulled back, breathless yet again, he rested his forehead against yours, his eyes closed.
Your heart pounded, but before you could say anything, he leaned back, his hand dropping to his side. "It's late. You should get some rest."
You nodded, slipping out of the car with a soft "goodnight," though the weight of his confession stayed with you long after the door closed behind you.
The Next Morning
The café was unusually busy, but Jeonghan didn't seem to mind. He sat across from you, coffee in hand, his usual playful smirk firmly in place.
"You've been distracted lately," he said, his tone light but his gaze sharp. "Something—or someone—on your mind?"
You rolled your eyes, playing along with his teasing. "Don't flatter yourself, Hannie."
He laughed, reaching across the table to nudge your arm. "See, that's the fire I like. Don't ever lose that."
The two of you lingered over coffee, chatting about everything and nothing, and by the time you left, he had his arm slung casually around your shoulders, his laughter ringing in your ears.
What you didn't notice was the figure standing across the street, watching the two of you with a mixture of hurt and frustration.
Wonwoo stood frozen, his hands clenched at his sides as he watched Jeonghan lean in close, whispering something in your ear that made you laugh. The way you looked at Jeonghan—so relaxed, so comfortable—felt like a punch to the gut.
By the time he turned away, the image of the two of you was burned into his mind, and the questions he'd been wrestling with all night came rushing back with a vengeance.
It started with a text.
Wonwoo: Busy tonight?
You stared at your phone, the memory of Jeonghan's laughter from earlier still fresh in your mind. Wonwoo's timing felt uncanny, almost as if he could sense when you were thinking about someone else.
You: nope You: why Wonwoo: Come over. I found a new game you'll like.
You hesitated for a moment, your fingers hovering over the screen. The invitation felt simple enough, but there was something about the way he asked—direct, no room for excuses—that made your heart skip a beat.
You: whats the game Wonwoo: You'll find out when you get here. Don't keep me waiting.
The last message came with a small but unmistakable sense of urgency, and before you could second-guess yourself, you were grabbing your jacket and heading out the door.
When you arrived at his place, the atmosphere felt different. The usual dim lighting and faint smell of coffee greeted you, but there was an undercurrent of something unspoken in the air.
Wonwoo was already setting up the game, his back turned to you as you stepped inside. "I was starting to think you weren't coming," he said without looking up.
"You don't exactly leave much room for saying no," you replied, your tone light but teasing.
He glanced over his shoulder, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "Good. I'd hate to lose my gaming partner to... other distractions."
The way he said it made your stomach flip, but you chose to ignore the implication. "So, what's this game you're so excited about?"
"Sit down, and I'll show you."
It had become a thing between the two of you—gaming sessions at Wonwoo's place, where you'd sit shoulder-to-shoulder on the couch, sharing laughter and mild trash talk over the sounds of button-mashing and victories. But tonight felt different. The way his knee brushed against yours when he adjusted his position, the way he leaned a little closer when explaining the controls—it all felt deliberate, as if he was trying to pull you into his orbit.
It had become a thing between the two of you—gaming sessions at Wonwoo's place, where you'd sit shoulder-to-shoulder on the couch, sharing laughter and mild trash talk over the sounds of button-mashing and victories.
Tonight was no different, except something felt off. Wonwoo was quieter than usual, his responses shorter, his usual calm demeanor tinged with something heavier.
"Alright, spill it," you said after another round ended, setting your controller down and turning to face him. "What's up with you?"
He didn't look at you immediately, his fingers still hovering over the buttons as if debating whether to start another game. Finally, he sighed and leaned back against the couch, his gaze fixed on the TV screen.
"You're making this really hard for me, you know?" he said, his voice low but steady.
You blinked, confused. "Making what hard?"
"This," he gestured vaguely between the two of you, finally turning to meet your eyes. "Being around you. Pretending I'm okay with... whatever this is."
His words hit you like a punch to the gut, and for a moment, you were at a loss. "Wonwoo, I—"
"I know," he cut you off gently, running a hand through his hair. "I know you're caught up in something with Jeonghan, and I'm not trying to make this more complicated for you. But I can't keep pretending it doesn't kill me to see you with him."
Your heart ached at the vulnerability in his voice, and before you could think, you reached out, your hand resting on his arm. "Wonwoo..."
His eyes softened at your touch, and for a moment, the tension seemed to dissipate. But then he shifted closer, his gaze dropping to your lips before flicking back up to meet your eyes.
"Tell me to stop," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
You didn't.
The next thing you knew, his lips were on yours, the kiss slow and searching at first, as if he was giving you a chance to pull away. But when you didn't, when you instead leaned into him, wrapping your arms around his neck, the kiss deepened, becoming hungrier, more urgent.
Wonwoo's hands found your waist, pulling you into his lap as the kiss grew more intense. You could feel the heat radiating off him, his breath hitching as your hands slid under the hem of his hoodie, your fingers grazing the warm skin beneath.
"You're driving me crazy," he muttered against your lips, his voice rough with desire.
"Good," you replied, your own voice breathless as you nipped at his bottom lip.
He groaned, his grip on your waist tightening as he guided you against him, the friction making you both gasp. His lips moved to your neck, leaving a trail of heated kisses that had you arching into him, your hands tangling in his hair.
"Wonwoo," you breathed, his name coming out like a prayer as he continued his assault on your senses.
His hands slid beneath your shirt, his touch sending shivers down your spine as he explored every inch of skin he could reach. "Tell me if I need to stop," he said, his voice strained but sincere.
"Don't stop," you whispered, your own hands tugging at his hoodie, eager to feel more of him.
His hoodie was the first to go, leaving him in just a plain black t-shirt that clung to his frame. You caught yourself staring for a second too long, but Wonwoo didn't seem to mind. His lips were back on yours before you could even form a coherent thought, his hands slipping under your shirt again, this time more purposeful, more confident.
He pulled back just enough to look at you, his chest rising and falling as he caught his breath. "Are you sure about this?" he asked, his voice low and edged with restraint.
You nodded, your fingers tracing the curve of his jaw. "Yes," you whispered, your voice barely audible but resolute.
That was all the confirmation he needed. In one fluid motion, he lifted your shirt over your head, followed by the unclipping of your bra. His eyes darkening as he took in the sight of your breasts. His hands were back on you immediately, roaming over your bare skin with a mix of reverence and hunger.
"You're so beautiful," he murmured against your shoulder, his lips brushing over the sensitive skin there before trailing down to your collarbone. His hands squeezing one of your breasts, thumbs grazing your sensitive nipples.
Heat pooled from your soaked cunt as he kissed his way lower, his hands firmly gripping your hips as if grounding himself. Your own hands found their way under his shirt, pushing it up and over his head, and the sight of him—flushed, disheveled, and entirely focused on you—made your heart race even faster.
When he leaned back to pull you closer, your legs straddling his hips, you felt every inch of him pressed against you, the friction sparking something primal between you. His lips were on yours again, his kiss deeper, hungrier, as his hands slid down to the waistband of your jeans.
"You can still stop me," he murmured against your lips, his fingers pausing just shy of the button.
Your response was immediate. "I don't want to stop."
His lips curved into a small, satisfied smirk before he made quick work of your jeans, tugging them down just enough to leave you exposed to him. He paused for a moment, his gaze raking over you with an intensity that made you feel both vulnerable and desired.
"You're perfect," he said, his voice barely above a whisper, before his hands were on you again, his touch igniting a fire that consumed every thought, every hesitation.
Wonwoo's hands trailed down your thighs, his touch deliberate and teasing as he mapped out every curve. The heat in his gaze was undeniable, a fire that matched the one building within you. When his fingers hooked under the waistband of your underwear, he paused, his dark eyes flickering to yours.
He slid your underwear down slowly, his lips pressing soft kisses along your inner thigh as he did, leaving a trail of fire in his wake. The way he looked at you—like you were the only thing in the world that mattered—made you tremble beneath him.
When his mouth found your soaked pussy, a gasp tore from your lips, your fingers tangling in his hair as he worked you over with an expertise that left you breathless. His tongue moved in slow, deliberate circles, the pressure just enough to have your hips bucking against him, seeking more.
"Fuck, Wonwoo," you moaned, the sound of his name falling from your lips only spurring him on. His hands gripped your thighs, keeping you firmly in place as he pushed you higher against him, his tongue reaching that one spot, your body teetering on the edge of bliss.
When he finally pulled back, his lips glistening, he looked up at you with a satisfied smirk. "You taste so good," he murmured, his voice rough with desire.
Before you could respond, he was back over you, his body pressing against yours as he captured your lips in a searing kiss. You could taste yourself on him, the intimacy of it only heightening your arousal. His hand slid between your legs again, his fingers teasing you, sliding through your slick folds before slowly pushing inside.
A cry escaped your lips, your back arching as he set a slow, torturous rhythm. "You're so fucking tight," he groaned, his forehead resting against yours as he watched your every reaction. "So perfect."
Your hands roamed his body, desperate to feel every inch of him. When you reached for his waistband, he let out a low chuckle but didn't stop you, his breath hitching as you freed him from his sweats. He was hard and heavy in your hand, and the guttural groan he let out when you stroked him made you feel powerful despite the way he had you unraveling beneath him.
Your palm did well enough, but when you took his cock in your mouth, that's when his precum was leaking out. You bobbed your head and licked the tip of his cock until he finally came in you.
His hot load leaking from your lips as you swallowed hard.
"I need you," he whispered, his voice rough with restraint as he positioned his cock at your entrance. He paused, his gaze locking with yours. "Tell me if it's too much. I don't ever want to hurt you."
You cupped his face, pulling him into a kiss as you wrapped your legs around his waist. "I trust you," you whispered against his lips. "Take it in."
With a quiet groan, he pushed into you slowly, filling you inch by inch until you were gasping, your nails digging into his shoulders. He stilled once he was fully seated inside you, his breath ragged as he gave you a moment to adjust.
"You feel so fucking good," he murmured, his lips brushing against your ear. "Better than I ever imagined."
You whimpered in response, rolling your hips against him in silent encouragement. He took the hint, pulling out slowly before thrusting back in, his movements measured but deep, each stroke drawing a moan from your lips. The way he filled you, stretched you, left you trembling, your body meeting his with every thrust.
"Wonwoo," you gasped, your voice breaking as he picked up the pace, his hands gripping your hips to guide you. He buried his face in your neck, his teeth grazing your skin as he lost himself in you.
His cock was slamming into you real hard as if there was no time to waste. Your moans only encouraging him to move faster to reach his climax and yours.
The room was filled with the sound of your labored breathing, the wet slap of skin against skin, and the occasional groan or whimper as he drove you both closer to the edge. The intensity of it—the way he worshipped your body, the way he whispered your name like a prayer—had you spiraling, the tension coiling in your stomach until it snapped.
You came undone with a cry, your body convulsing around him as waves of pleasure crashed over you. He followed soon after, his hips stuttering as he spilled into you, his groan muffled against your neck.
For a moment, neither of you moved, the only sound the heavy rhythm of your breathing. Wonwoo finally pulled back, cock dripping with your mixed cum, his lips brushing over your forehead as he gazed down at you with an expression so tender it made your heart ache.
"That wasn't just about lust," he murmured, his voice soft but certain. "Not for me."
Your chest tightened at his words, the weight of them sinking in. You wanted to respond, to tell him everything you were feeling, but the words wouldn't come. Instead, you cupped his face, pulling him into another kiss—slow, lingering, and filled with all the emotions you couldn't yet put into words.
You were almost too smug for your own good, leaning back with a satisfied grin as you glanced at Wonwoo, wearing nothing but his hoodie that was oversized in your frame.
"You got lucky," he grumbled, a playful smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.
"Admit it," you teased, leaning toward him, your breath brushing against his ear. "I'm just better than you."
His eyes flickered to yours, a spark of mischief in their depths. "Oh, is that so?"
Before you could react, he reached out, pulling you onto his lap in one swift motion. You gasped in surprise, dropping the controller as his arms locked around your waist, keeping you firmly in place. Wonwoo swore under his breath when he recognizes his scent from your body.
"Still think you're better than me?" he murmured, his breath warm against your ear.
You blinked, confused by the sudden change in his energy. "Wonwoo, what are you—"
Before you could finish, his lips were on yours, capturing them in a kiss that was anything but playful. It was deep and hungry, the kind that made your knees weak and your heart race.
The controller clattered to the floor, forgotten as your hands instinctively tangled in his hair, pulling him closer. His hands roamed over your body, sliding under the hoodie to grip your waist, his thumbs brushing over your skin in a way that made you gasp against his lips.
"God, you're distracting," he muttered, pulling back just enough to speak, his forehead resting against yours.
"You started it," you shot back breathlessly, your hands clutching at his plain black t-shirt.
"Maybe," he admitted, a wicked grin spreading across his face. "But you're going to finish it."
Before you could respond, he reached for the controller with one hand, the other still firmly on your hip. "Let's see if you can focus now," he challenged, restarting the game.
"Wonwoo, you can't be serious—"
"Oh, I'm dead serious," he cut you off, his voice low and teasing as his free hand trailed down to your thigh, squeezing gently.
"What's the matter? Can't handle a little distraction?" he murmured against your neck, his voice low and teasing.
You bit your lip, trying to focus on the game, but every inch of your body was hyperaware of his touch, the way his fingers traced patterns against your inner thigh, slowly inching higher. You could feel the heat pooling between your legs, the sensation intensifying with each teasing touch. It was getting harder to keep your eyes on the screen.
"Wonwoo, I swear—" you started, your breath catching in your throat.
But before you could protest further, his hand slid between your legs and grazed on your soaked cunt, the contact sending a jolt of electricity through you. You gasped, the controller slipping from your hands as your body leaned into his touch. The game was the last thing on your mind now. His fingers were careful, deliberate, and oh so teasing as they brushed against your soaked clit, sending waves of pleasure through you that you couldn't escape.
Wonwoo's teasing turned into something deeper, his desire evident in the way he touched you, his movements becoming more urgent as he lifted you slightly to adjust your position.
"Fuck the game," he muttered against your lips, his patience snapping as he pushed you down onto the couch, his body pressing against yours. "You win."
Your head fell back against the couch, the words tumbling from your lips without thought, every part of you overwhelmed by his touch. You couldn't think straight, couldn't even remember what the game was about as he kissed along your neck, moving lower, his hands never leaving you. His lips, warm and insistent, found your skin, marking it with soft bites and caresses that made you shudder.
"Wonwoo... please..." Your voice was thick with need, and you didn't care that he could hear the desperation in it. You wanted him closer, deeper, as your body arched against his, silently begging for more.
He smiled against your neck, a slow, confident grin that made your pulse spike. "You're so fucking beautiful, you know that?"
You let out a soft laugh, though it was shaky, breathless. "Stop teasing me."
"I'm not teasing," he murmured, his fingers slipping inside you, drawing out a sharp gasp from your lips. "I'm giving you exactly what you need."
His thumb circled your clit in rhythmic, deliberate movements as his lips found yours once again, swallowing your moans. It was slow, methodical, each movement pushing you closer to the edge. You could feel the tension building deep in your stomach, the pressure mounting with every stroke of his fingers.
You tangled your hands in his hair, pulling him deeper into the kiss, your body pressing into his as if you were trying to become one. The connection between you felt almost overwhelming, like every touch, every kiss, was laced with raw emotion—desire, yes, but something more.
Something tender.
He pulled away for a moment, his eyes searching yours, intense and unguarded. "Are you okay?" he whispered, his voice soft, filled with genuine concern. It was a question that showed just how much he cared, how much he wanted to make this more than just physical.
Wonwoo positioned the tip of his cock onto the entrance of your pussy.
You nodded, breathless, and smiled up at him. "I'm more than okay."
And with that, he kissed you again, this time with a gentleness that sent a shiver down your spine, before he shoved his dick in you and began moving faster.
The game continued in the background, forgotten, as you surrendered completely to him. And this time, it was different—it wasn't just about the physical, it was about the intimacy, the way you fit together perfectly in that moment.
He groaned softly against your skin, his movements becoming more urgent. "Fuck, you feel so good."
Your hands slid down his chest, your nails grazing lightly over his skin as you urged him on. "Don't stop," you whispered, your voice thick with need. "Please don't stop."
He didn't.
The way he continued thrusting in you felt like a bliss. Every hard slam with his balls slapping your already-soaked ass added to the heat of everything.
The night had been nothing but kisses, gaming, sex, gaming, and sex.
Wonwoo grabbed one of your legs up to get him a better angle before thrusting real hard into you. His heart pounding like never before.
And when it finally came—when that wave of pleasure crashed over you both—it was nothing short of overwhelming. You clung to each other, bodies trembling as the world around you faded away, leaving only the two of you tangled together, lost in the moment.
As you both slowly came down from the high, Wonwoo kissed your forehead softly, his breath warm against your skin. "You're incredible," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.
"And you're a sore loser," you teased, a playful smirk tugging at your lips even as your heart raced.
He laughed lowly, a sound that made your pulse spike, and leaned down to kiss you again. "Maybe. But I think I'm about to make up for it."
Wonwoo brushed your hair back from your face, his thumb gently grazing your cheek as his dark, smoldering gaze softened. "You know, I wasn't just talking about the game earlier," he murmured, his voice low and intimate.
Your breath caught at the sudden shift in his tone. "What do you mean?"
"I mean you're incredible," he repeated, his fingers tracing along your jawline. "Not just here, not just now. I mean everything about you. You drive me crazy in ways I didn't even know were possible."
The sincerity in his voice made your chest tighten. For a moment, you didn't know how to respond, the weight of his words sinking deep into your heart. But instead of fumbling for the right thing to say, you cupped his face, brushing your thumb across his cheekbone as you leaned in.
Your kiss was slow and deliberate, a silent answer to the emotions swirling between you. He responded immediately, his lips moving against yours with a mix of tenderness and hunger, as though he wanted to pour every unspoken word into that kiss.
When you pulled back just enough to rest your foreheads together, you whispered, "You mean just as much to me, Wonwoo. Maybe even more."
He chuckled softly, his breath warm against your lips. "That's impossible."
The teasing edge to his voice made you smirk, the playful tension between you rekindling. "Guess we'll have to agree to disagree," you quipped, your fingers gliding down the firm planes of his chest, now bare and warm under your touch.
His lips curved into a wicked grin, his gaze darkening as his hands roamed over your body, reacquainting themselves with every curve. "Still feeling smug, huh? Should I knock you down a peg?"
His hands slid down your sides, leaving a trail of fire in their wake. The sofa creaked beneath you as he shifted his weight, his body pressing more firmly into yours. His fingers trailed lower, tracing lazy circles along your thigh before gripping it and hitching it higher around his waist.
"Smug? No," you teased, your voice breathless. "Just confident."
Wonwoo let out a low laugh, the sound rumbling against your skin. "We'll see about that."
Without warning, he dipped his head, his lips capturing yours in a searing kiss that stole the air from your lungs. His tongue teased yours, slow and deliberate, his kisses deep and unrelenting as his hand slid between your legs, his fingers skillfully reigniting the fire that hadn't had time to die down.
You gasped against his mouth, your back arching off the couch as he explored you, his touch knowing and intentional. "Wonwoo," you whimpered, his name spilling from your lips like a prayer.
He pulled back just enough to meet your gaze, his dark eyes filled with desire and something deeper, something raw. "You're so fucking perfect," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion as he leaned down to kiss you again.
The rhythm of his touch became more insistent, drawing soft moans from you as your fingers dug into his shoulders. He didn't rush—each movement was deliberate, every touch meant to drive you closer to the edge.
"You're driving me crazy," you managed to choke out, your voice trembling with need.
"Good," he muttered, his lips trailing down to your neck, leaving a line of heated kisses as his hand disappeared to adjust himself. "Because you've been driving me insane all night."
Before you could respond, he lined his cock up and pushed into your cunt with one slow, deliberate thrust, your bodies melding together perfectly. Your pussy had already recognized the way his cock seemed to slip in you, it still had you gasping, your nails raking down his back as he buried himself completely, his breath coming out in a shaky groan against your ear.
The pace was slower this time, more intimate, but no less intense. Every thrust was deliberate, his hips rolling into yours as if he wanted to memorize every inch of you. His lips found yours again, silencing your cries as he deepened the kiss, his hands gripping your waist to keep you steady beneath him.
The air between you was thick with heat and unspoken emotions, your bodies moving together as if they'd been made for this—made for each other. His name spilled from your lips in breathless whispers, your hands roaming his back, his chest, desperate to feel more of him.
"Look at me," he demanded softly, his voice strained. When your eyes met his, the intensity in his gaze nearly undid you. "I want to see you. Every part of you."
Your heart ached at the raw vulnerability in his tone, your chest tightening as you reached up to cup his face. "Wonwoo..."
He leaned into your touch, his movements growing more urgent as he chased both your highs, his forehead dropping to rest against yours. "I love this," he murmured, his voice barely audible above the sound of your labored breaths. "I love you."
The words hit you like a wave, and for a moment, everything else faded away—the world, the room, the lingering tension that had always existed between you. There was only him, and the way he made you feel whole.
Your body tensed beneath him, the pleasure building until it finally crested, leaving you trembling and crying out his name. Wonwoo wasn't far behind, his own release crashing over him as he buried himself deep inside you, his groan vibrating against your skin.
For a moment, the room was silent save for the sound of your heavy breathing, your bodies still tangled together on the sofa. Wonwoo shifted slightly, pulling you closer as he pressed a soft kiss to your forehead.
"You win," he muttered, his lips curving into a tired but satisfied smile.
You laughed, the sound light and breathless as you nuzzled into his chest. "Damn right, I do."
He chuckled, his hand trailing lazily down your back. "But you're still wearing my hoodie next time we game," he teased, his voice low and teasing. "You're too distracting without it."
"And you're not?" you shot back, a playful smirk tugging at your lips.
"Fair point," he admitted, his grin widening as he pulled you into another kiss, one filled with unspoken promises and endless possibilities.
You and Wonwoo were still wrapped up in the warmth of each other's embrace, your body pressed snugly against his as you both lay tangled on the sofa. The soft glow of the paused game screen flickered across the room, the controllers forgotten on the floor amidst the aftermath of your intimacy.
Wonwoo's fingers traced lazy patterns along your bare back, his lips occasionally brushing against your forehead in quiet affection. You were just beginning to drift into that blissful post-climactic haze when the sharp sound of a knock broke through the quiet.
"Wonwoo," a familiar voice called from the other side of the door. "I'm here for the CD. Open up."
Your heart dropped into your stomach. "Oh my god," you whispered, your eyes wide as you shot up, scrambling to pull the throw blanket over your completely naked body.
Wonwoo cursed under his breath, sitting up as well. "Shit. I forgot he was coming."
"You forgot?" you hissed, grabbing at the nearest piece of clothing—Wonwoo's hoodie—but realizing it wasn't enough to cover you entirely.
"He said he'd stop by today, but I wasn't exactly thinking about it in the moment!" Wonwoo muttered, running a hand through his messy hair, now tousled from your earlier activities.
Another knock came, this time sharper, with Jeonghan's unmistakable impatience seeping through. "I can hear you in there. Don't make me wait, Wonwoo."
Your eyes met Wonwoo's in a silent panic. He quickly threw on his discarded black t-shirt and sweatpants, his movements hurried but calculated as he adjusted himself to look as composed as possible. Meanwhile, you grabbed the throw blanket and curled up at the corner of the couch, doing your best to look casual despite the unmistakable heat still lingering between you.
Wonwoo opened the door, and there stood Jeonghan, looking as effortless as ever in his beige trench coat and sharp gaze. He didn't bother with pleasantries, stepping into the apartment as if he owned the place.
"I told you I needed the CD back today," Jeonghan said, his tone light but edged with something sharper. His eyes flickered briefly to Wonwoo before scanning the room—and stopping dead when they landed on you.
His gaze narrowed slightly as he took in your disheveled appearance, the way the blanket was draped over you, and the faint blush still coloring your cheeks. "Oh," he said, his voice dipping into a dangerous kind of curiosity.
Wonwoo cleared his throat, trying to draw Jeonghan's attention away. "It's, uh, on the shelf. I'll grab it for you."
Jeonghan didn't move, his sharp eyes now pinned on Wonwoo. "Am I interrupting something?"
You opened your mouth to respond, but no sound came out. Wonwoo, on the other hand, let out a short laugh, scratching the back of his neck. "No, we were just gaming," he lied, but the slight crack in his voice betrayed him.
Jeonghan's brow quirked as he slowly crossed his arms. "Gaming," he repeated, the word dripping with disbelief. His gaze darted back to you, lingering on the blanket and the clear absence of any actual gaming activity.
"It's just a little warm in here," you blurted out, clutching the blanket tighter around yourself.
Jeonghan's lips curved into a faint smirk, but there was no humor in his expression. "Right. Warm."
Wonwoo returned with the CD, holding it out to Jeonghan. "Here. You can go now."
But Jeonghan didn't take it right away. Instead, he stepped closer, his eyes darting between the two of you. "This is the game you wanted to show her, isn't it?" he asked Wonwoo, his tone casual but laced with meaning.
Wonwoo stiffened, his jaw clenching slightly. "Yeah. It is."
Jeonghan let out a soft chuckle, finally taking the CD from Wonwoo's hand. "Took you long enough," he said, turning the case over in his hands. Then, as if suddenly struck by a thought, he glanced back at you.
"You've got good taste in games," Jeonghan remarked, his gaze lingering just a little too long. "I wonder if that extends to... other things."
The air grew heavier, the tension crackling like static electricity as Jeonghan's words hung in the air. You could feel your pulse racing, your hands gripping the edge of the blanket as Wonwoo's posture shifted, his protective instincts kicking in.
"Jeonghan," Wonwoo said, his voice low and warning.
But Jeonghan just smirked, slipping the CD into his coat pocket. "Relax," he said smoothly. "I'm just making an observation."
With that, he turned on his heel and made his way to the door. But just before stepping out, he paused, glancing back over his shoulder. "Enjoy your game," he said, his eyes locking with yours for a moment longer than necessary. Then he was gone, leaving behind an air of unease that neither you nor Wonwoo could shake.
The door had barely clicked shut behind Jeonghan when you exhaled shakily, the weight of his lingering presence still pressing on you. Wonwoo paced in front of the sofa, his jaw tight, and his hands clenched into fists. You could see the storm brewing inside him—frustration, jealousy, and a simmering anger that he was trying to keep under control.
"I should go with him," you blurted out, your voice cutting through the silence like a blade.
Wonwoo stopped dead in his tracks, his head snapping toward you. "What?"
You adjusted the blanket around you, avoiding his eyes. "I need to explain things to him. He knows, Wonwoo. He's not stupid. If I don't clear this up, it's just going to get worse—for all of us."
Wonwoo's expression darkened, a muscle ticking in his jaw. "So, what? You're just going to run after him and... what? Smooth it over with some bullshit excuse? Jeonghan doesn't care about explanations. He's probably already twisting this into whatever narrative suits him best."
You stood, the blanket slipping slightly as you moved to grab Wonwoo's hoodie from the floor. "I can handle him. You know I can."
Wonwoo stepped closer, his voice dropping into a low, urgent tone. "This isn't just about handling him. Do you seriously think he's going to let you walk out of there without digging deeper? Without trying to... to turn this into something else?"
You pulled the hoodie over your head, the familiar scent of Wonwoo enveloping you like a second skin. "And what do you suggest I do? Sit here and let him assume whatever he wants? Let him keep showing up, throwing out veiled threats and smirks until we all lose our minds?"
Wonwoo's hands found your arms, his grip firm but not rough. "You stay. With me. Let him stew in his own suspicions—who cares what he thinks?" His voice softened slightly, his eyes searching yours. "I don't want you to go."
Your chest tightened at the vulnerability in his gaze, but you shook your head. "Wonwoo, this isn't just about us. Jeonghan's your friend, your teammate. If we don't handle this carefully, it's going to blow up in all of our faces. Let me do this. For both of us."
He hesitated, his grip faltering as he weighed your words. Finally, with a frustrated sigh, he let go, stepping back. "Fine. But don't let him manipulate you, okay? He's... he's good at that."
You gave him a small, reassuring smile, though your heart was pounding. "I won't."
With that, you slipped on your shoes and opened the door, stepping out into the hallway where Jeonghan was leaning casually against the wall, as if he'd been waiting. His sharp eyes flicked to you, a hint of amusement tugging at his lips.
"Changed your mind?" he asked, his tone light but his gaze far too calculating for comfort.
"It's late," you said evenly, crossing your arms. "Wonwoo thought it'd be better if I went with you."
Jeonghan's smirk widened as he straightened, pushing off the wall. "Of course he did."
The two of you walked toward the elevator in silence, the air between you thick with unspoken words. It wasn't until you were both inside, the doors sliding shut, that Jeonghan finally broke the quiet.
"So," he said, his voice smooth and deliberate. "How long has this been going on?"
You turned to him, your expression carefully neutral. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Jeonghan chuckled, shaking his head. "Come on. Give me some credit. The disheveled look, the way you wouldn't meet my eyes, Wonwoo acting like a deer caught in headlights—do you really think I don't know?"
You swallowed hard, your grip tightening on the strap of your bag. "It's none of your business, Jeonghan."
He stepped closer, his presence suddenly overwhelming in the small space. "See, that's where you're wrong. It is my business—because whatever's happening between you two is already affecting him. And if it affects him, it affects me."
You met his gaze head-on, refusing to back down. "What do you want from me, Jeonghan? An apology? Fine. I'm sorry if this complicates things for you, but it's not your place to judge."
Jeonghan's expression shifted, the smirk fading as something darker flickered in his eyes. "I'm not judging," he said quietly, his voice almost too calm. "I'm warning you. Wonwoo's not the only one who knows how to play games."
The elevator dinged, and the doors slid open, breaking the tension. Jeonghan stepped out first, turning back to look at you with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Let's see how well you handle this, hmm?"
As you stepped out of the elevator with Jeonghan, you could feel the weight of his gaze on you, studying every shift in your expression. The silence stretched as you walked toward the parking lot, your nerves taut with anticipation.
When Jeonghan finally spoke, his voice was as smooth as ever, but there was a sharpness underneath. "You know, I almost didn't come by tonight. Figured I'd give you two more time to... bond."
You stiffened, but kept your voice steady. "You're reading too much into this."
He hummed, unlocking his car with a casual flick of his wrist. "Am I? You're wearing his hoodie. That doesn't exactly scream subtle, does it?"
You glanced down at the fabric, suddenly hyperaware of how it clung to you, still warm with the scent of Wonwoo. "It's just a hoodie, Jeonghan."
He opened the passenger door for you, his smirk returning as he gestured for you to get in. "Right. Just a hoodie."
The ride was quiet at first, the hum of the engine filling the space between you. Jeonghan didn't push, didn't prod—he just let the silence stretch, knowing it would fray your nerves more than words ever could.
Finally, he broke it with a question that felt more like a trap. "Did he tell you about the game?"
You frowned, caught off guard. "What game?"
Jeonghan chuckled, shaking his head as he turned onto the main road. "The one he's been obsessing over for weeks. The one he wanted to show you."
Your breath hitched. Of course. The CD. You hadn't even realized it was the same one he'd been talking about that night.
Jeonghan noticed your reaction immediately, his smirk widening. "Guess not. Too busy with... other things, I suppose."
You shot him a sharp look. "If you've got something to say, just say it, Jeonghan."
He pulled into a small café, the kind that stayed open late, and parked the car. Turning to you, he leaned against the steering wheel, his dark eyes locking onto yours. "What's your endgame here?"
The question caught you off guard. "What are you talking about?"
He tilted his head, his gaze unrelenting. "With Wonwoo. With me. With whatever this is. You're playing a dangerous game, sweetheart, and I'm not sure you even realize it."
You bristled at his tone, but before you could respond, he got out of the car, motioning for you to follow. Inside the café, the dim lighting and soft hum of conversation provided a strange sense of calm, though the tension between you and Jeonghan remained electric.
Over steaming cups of coffee, he leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand as he studied you. "You're trying to fix this, aren't you? Trying to keep everyone happy, keep the peace. But you've already made your choice."
You frowned, his words cutting deeper than you wanted to admit. "And what choice is that?"
Jeonghan's smile was slow, calculated. "You stayed with him. You didn't run when I walked in. That says a lot."
Your grip tightened on your mug, the heat seeping into your skin. "It's not that simple."
"Isn't it?" he countered, his gaze piercing. "Because from where I'm sitting, it looks like you've already picked a side. You just don't want to admit it."
Before you could respond, your phone buzzed on the table. Wonwoo's name lit up the screen, and Jeonghan's eyes flicked to it, a hint of amusement tugging at his lips.
"Speak of the devil," he murmured, leaning back in his chair.
You hesitated, your heart pounding as you reached for the phone. But before you could answer, Jeonghan's hand shot out, his fingers brushing against yours as he slid the phone away.
"Let him wait," he said softly, his tone leaving no room for argument.
You stared at him, caught between frustration and something you couldn't quite name. "What are you trying to do, Jeonghan?"
He smiled, slow and deliberate. "Just testing the waters. Seeing how far you'll go to protect him—or yourself."
As the tension in the café thickened, your fingers twitched, itching to pick up the phone, but Jeonghan's grip on it was firm, his fingers brushing against yours just a second too long, sending a jolt of something through you. His eyes locked onto yours, almost daring you to make a move.
"Jeonghan, let me answer," you said, your voice quieter than you meant it to be, the frustration barely masked by the cool facade you were trying to hold up.
He raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a faint, knowing smirk. "Why? So you can pretend everything's fine with him? That you're not tangled up in this mess already?"
You swallowed, the words stinging more than you wanted to admit. His eyes were practically burning into yours, waiting for a crack, a sign of weakness. And before you could stop yourself, you found yourself speaking before thinking.
"You don't understand," you said, your voice low but steady. "This isn't about choosing sides. It's about—"
"About what?" Jeonghan interrupted, cutting you off smoothly, leaning forward with a gleam in his eyes. "Tell me. Is it about keeping everything under control? Because, trust me, darling, I can see it. You think you have all the power, don't you? But you're just as tangled in this as the rest of us."
His words sliced through the air, and you froze, the weight of them settling like a heavy blanket around you. You didn't know how to respond, how to argue against what he was saying. It was hard not to feel like he was right—like you were walking a tightrope between both of them, trying to balance something you didn't even know you wanted.
Just then, your phone buzzed again—this time, Wonwoo's name lighting up the screen, flashing with urgency. The phone vibrated against the table, the sound loud in the silence. You reached for it without thinking, but Jeonghan's hand was faster.
His fingers wrapped around your wrist, stilling you. His grip was gentle but firm, and for a moment, you couldn't move. You looked at him, your pulse quickening at the proximity. The tension between you two felt like it was about to snap.
"Don't answer," Jeonghan whispered, leaning in, his breath hot against your ear. "Let him wonder. Let him feel what it's like to be on the outside for once."
You inhaled sharply, your breath catching in your throat at how close he was. His thumb traced lightly across your skin, sending a wave of heat through your body. And even though you knew you should pull away, there was something magnetic about his touch, something that made you question everything you thought you knew about loyalty and desire.
But before you could fully process the moment, the door to the café swung open, and the sound of footsteps echoed across the room.
Wonwoo.
You felt your heart skip a beat as your gaze shot to him, standing at the entrance, his eyes immediately locking onto yours. His expression was unreadable, his jaw clenched tight, but you could see the storm brewing behind his eyes.
"Jeonghan," he said, voice low, like a warning. "You're not—"
But Jeonghan wasn't fazed. He didn't even look up, still holding onto your wrist with a gentle but insistent pressure. "I'm just making sure we're all on the same page. Aren't we, sweetheart?" he purred, eyes flicking over to Wonwoo.
Wonwoo's nostrils flared, his gaze flickering to you, his eyes softening just a fraction before hardening again. "Let go of her."
You could feel the tension snap like a live wire, the air between the three of you crackling with something you couldn't quite put into words. Jeonghan's smile didn't falter as he finally released your wrist, but there was something dangerous in the way he looked at Wonwoo.
"Why don't you take a seat, Wonwoo? We were just talking about how much of a mess all of this is. Don't you think it's time you joined the conversation?"
Wonwoo stepped forward, his fists clenched, but you could see the war raging in his mind—between walking away and confronting Jeonghan right there, in front of you. His voice was low, his patience wearing thin. "This isn't your business."
"Isn't it?" Jeonghan said with a cold chuckle. "You're both tangled in something you can't even control. You think this is some kind of game, but it's not. It's real. And now... the question is, which one of you will claim what's already slipping through your fingers?"
Your heart hammered in your chest, caught between the two of them, the world spinning as the air in the café seemed to close in around you. You wanted to scream, to stop this madness, but something inside you told you this was just the beginning of something bigger, something that would tear all of you apart.
With Wonwoo standing there, muscles tense, his eyes burning with something unspoken, and Jeonghan smiling like the puppeteer he was, you realized that no matter what choice you made next, nothing would ever be the same again.
The drive home was silent, save for the hum of the car engine and the occasional shift in the seats. Wonwoo didn't say anything, and neither did you. You were both still processing what had happened—the tension between you, Jeonghan's unexpected arrival, and the fact that everything felt like it was teetering on the edge of something much bigger.
When you arrived home, Wonwoo parked the car in the driveway but didn't immediately turn off the engine. He glanced over at you, his face soft but burdened.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice quieter than usual.
You nodded, even though you weren't sure if you were. "I'm fine," you muttered, but it was more for his sake than anything.
He reached over, placing a hand on yours, his thumb rubbing gently over your skin. "You don't have to pretend for me, you know."
You felt the weight of his words. The evening had shifted something in you, and you weren't sure where it was leading. "I just... don't know what to do about Jeonghan. Or us." Your voice trailed off, heavy with the unsaid.
Wonwoo sighed, a mixture of frustration and understanding in his eyes. "It's not easy," he admitted. "But I'm here for you. Always."
You leaned against his shoulder, closing your eyes, trying to gather your thoughts. After a long moment, you finally spoke again, your voice small. "I don't want to lose either of you."
Wonwoo didn't answer at first, but when he did, it was with such a quiet certainty that it made your heart race. "You won't. Just... let me figure things out with you."
He walked you to your door, giving you a soft kiss on the forehead before heading back to his car, leaving you standing in the doorway, lost in the silence.
The Next Day at Work:
The office felt colder than usual when you arrived. Your heart sank as soon as you saw Jeonghan. He didn't even acknowledge you. It wasn't like him to ignore you, but there he was, sitting at his desk, completely absorbed in his work.
You walked toward him, hoping to get a word in. "Jeonghan?" you asked quietly, trying to catch his attention.
He didn't look up, and the coldness in his demeanor made your chest tighten. "Busy," he said curtly, not even sparing you a glance.
The sting of his indifference hit harder than you expected. You stood there for a moment, unsure of what to do. Were you supposed to apologize? Or was it something else? Before you could gather the courage to say anything more, Wonwoo appeared, stepping between you and Jeonghan.
"Hey," Wonwoo said, his voice calm but firm, a protective stance around you. "You should go take a break, Y/N. I'll handle things here."
You blinked, feeling both grateful and conflicted. But as you walked away, you couldn't shake the feeling that everything between the three of you had shifted in ways you couldn't fix overnight.
Later That Day:
You were sitting in the break room when Wonwoo found you, a cup of coffee in hand. He slid into the chair next to you, not saying anything at first. The silence between you felt familiar but different now.
"Jeonghan's... not speaking to me," you said, the words coming out before you could stop them. "I don't know what to do."
Wonwoo leaned in, wrapping his arm around your shoulders, pulling you close. "You don't have to fix everything right now," he murmured. "Take it slow. Let him come around, if he does. But I'm here for you."
You rested your head on his shoulder, trying to let the comfort of his presence sink in. Despite the chaos of the situation, there was a small part of you that felt safe in his arms.
The next day at work felt like stepping into a different dimension. Jeonghan’s presence had always been a constant—a mix of charm and sharp remarks that kept you on your toes—but now, it was as if he’d built an invisible wall around himself.
You caught sight of him as soon as you walked into the office. He was leaning against the desk near the window, flipping through some documents, but his eyes didn’t so much as glance in your direction. Normally, he’d throw in a sly comment or even a teasing smirk just to annoy you. Today? Nothing.
You tried not to let it bother you, but as the hours ticked by, his cold shoulder was impossible to ignore. He barely acknowledged your presence during the team meeting, speaking only when necessary and directing his comments to everyone but you. The tension was palpable, and it made concentrating on your tasks a Herculean effort.
By lunchtime, you’d had enough. As he stood by the coffee machine, you approached cautiously, your heart pounding in your chest. “Jeonghan,” you began, your voice softer than you intended. “Can we talk?”
He didn’t look up right away. When he finally did, his expression was unreadable, his usual playful demeanor replaced by something distant and closed off. “I’m busy,” he replied curtly, turning his attention back to his coffee cup.
The words stung more than you wanted to admit, but you weren’t about to give up. “Please,” you pressed, stepping closer. “I know something’s wrong. Can we at least clear the air?”
Jeonghan sighed, his shoulders sagging slightly as he set his cup down. For a moment, it looked like he might relent, but then he shook his head. “There’s nothing to talk about,” he said, his tone clipped. “Just focus on your work.”
His words were like a slap to the face. You blinked, struggling to keep your composure. “If this is about Wonwoo—”
“Don’t,” he interrupted sharply, his gaze finally locking onto yours. His eyes, usually so warm and full of mischief, were cold and piercing now. “Don’t bring him into this.”
The silence that followed was deafening. You felt a lump form in your throat, but you swallowed it down, refusing to let yourself break in front of him. “Fine,” you said quietly, your voice barely above a whisper. “If that’s how you want it.”
The silence between you and Jeonghan was as heavy as the weight in your chest. His hands remained tucked into the pockets of his tailored coat, his jaw tight, his gaze somewhere beyond you. For a second, you thought he’d finally say something, but he only let out a quiet exhale, the faintest fog of breath forming in the cold air.
You took a hesitant step forward. “Jeonghan,” you started, your voice trembling, unsure if it was from the cold or the overwhelming tension. “I don’t—” You bit down on your lip, searching for words that wouldn’t make things worse. “I don’t know what you’re thinking right now, but I just need you to hear me out.”
His gaze flickered to yours, sharp and guarded, but he didn’t speak.
Your stomach churned. “It wasn’t—” You struggled, the words tangling in your throat. “It’s not what you think it is.”
Jeonghan’s laugh was bitter, sharp like the snap of a twig underfoot. “Isn’t it?” he asked, tilting his head slightly. The question hung in the air, daring you to answer.
“I—” Your voice faltered, and for the first time, you felt the hot prick of tears welling in your eyes. You blinked them away, refusing to cry now—not here, not in front of him. But the lump in your throat grew heavier.
Jeonghan’s expression hardened. “You’re unbelievable,” he said quietly, his tone devoid of the usual playfulness or charm you associated with him. It stung more than you cared to admit. “Do you even realize what you’re doing?”
“I didn’t mean for any of this to happen,” you whispered, your voice cracking under the weight of your emotions. “Jeonghan, please, you have to believe me. I never wanted to hurt anyone. Especially not you.”
For a moment, his mask slipped. His eyes softened, just enough for you to catch a glimpse of the man who used to tease you with sly smiles and effortless charm. But just as quickly, the vulnerability disappeared, replaced by that same cold, distant stare.
“I don’t think it matters what you wanted,” he said finally, his voice low, almost pained. “Because it’s already happened.” He shook his head and took a step back, the distance between you growing in more ways than one. “I need to go.”
“Jeonghan, wait—”
But he was already turning away, the echo of his footsteps fading into the night. You stood there, frozen, the tears you had fought so hard to hold back finally spilling over.
The sound of a door creaking open pulled you out of your daze. You turned to see Wonwoo leaning against the doorframe, his expression unreadable as he took in the scene. He didn’t say anything, just held out a hand, inviting you back inside.
You hesitated for a moment, staring at his outstretched hand. Then, with a deep, shaky breath, you walked back toward him, allowing the warmth of his presence to envelope you as he pulled you inside.
He didn’t ask what happened, didn’t push for answers. Instead, he guided you to the couch, wrapping you in a blanket and sitting beside you. His hand found yours, his fingers lacing through yours as if to remind you that, no matter what, he was here.
The silence was comforting this time, a stark contrast to the tension that had followed Jeonghan’s departure. But even as Wonwoo’s thumb brushed gently over your knuckles, offering a quiet kind of reassurance, you couldn’t shake the lingering ache in your chest.
Because no matter how warm Wonwoo’s touch was, no matter how safe you felt beside him, the rift between you, Jeonghan, and Wonwoo was something that wouldn’t heal easily.
And deep down, you weren’t sure if it ever could.
an: ik its way too dramatic but lmao. you stayed till the end you definitely deserve an award. iloveyou.
taglist: @asyre @choppedballoondetective @kpoppiesofinternet @syluslittlecrow @minhui896
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THANK YOU FOR READINGGG MWUAAAHH ! <3
knowing yall enjoyed this ongoing shitshow makes me really happy. all the late nights and used up free times writing this makes me really super extra happyyyy. loveyou guyyssss mwauuuuaaahhhh !
reblog / comment to be added on the taglist.
#seventeen smut#seventeen ff#svthub#seventeen#svt#seventeen fanfic#seventeen fic#svt smut#seventeen hard thoughts#jeonghan smut#yoon jeonghan smut#yoon jeonghan#jeonghan fanfic#jeonghan x reader#jeonghan fic#seventeen yoon jeonghan#wonwoo smut#jeon wonwoo#wonwoo#wonwoo fanfic#wonwoo x reader#wonwoo imagines#wonwoo fic#jeon wonwoo fanfiction#svt x reader#seventeen x reader#⋈ꕤଘ⋆๑⋈𓂅⋆-𓍼⌗ᯅ#°★ 🎀 𝒽🍬𝓃𝑒𝓎𝒽𝒶𝑒 𝓈𝓋𝓉 🎀 ★°#☆*: .。.ᓚᘏᗢ.。.:*☆~°★ 🎀 𝒽🍬𝓃𝑒𝓎𝒽𝒶𝑒-𝓈𝓋𝓉 🎀 ★°#kpop fanfic
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Adding onto this, here's some things I try to do in my emojis
DISCLAIMER! I don't rely on AAC devices for communication, I'm approaching this from my perspective as a design student
1 Avoid making the meaning of your symbols dependent on their color
This makes them less accessible for colorblind people. For example, for things like boy vs girl instead of pink and blue I usually use the Venus and Mars symbols.
2 Make sure the symbol is readable at a small size.
Avoid making any critical elements of the symbol very small. Also make sure that if you have lots of details they don't make it difficult to understand the symbol when you zoom out. It can help to reduce the color contrast on these less important details.
3 Think about different ways of representing each symbol you make
I sometimes try out 4 or 5 different concepts for a symbol before choosing which one I want to go with. In this step I like to think about all the ways people use the word I'm representing, and try to capture as many of those meanings as possible.
4 Clarity is king!
In my opinion you should never sacrifice clarity for anything else when making AAC symbols. The order of goals I use when making my symbols is this:
[ 1 Clear to understand -> 2 As universal as possible -> 3 Fits with my style -> 4 Nice to look at ]
5 Avoid ambiguity
This can be difficult, especially with core words, but make an effort to reduce the amount of meanings a symbol can have. Don't worry about this so much that you add a bunch of extra elements, but keep it in mind.
6 if you're making your symbols just for yourself, it's ok to throw this all out the window. The most important thing is making something that *you* will recognize and understand
A Guide to Making AAC Symbols, for Emoji Artists
[PT: A guide to making AAC symbols, for emoji artists. End PT]
Making symbols for AAC is not as easy as adding the AAC symbols tag to one of your normal emojis. Here are some things to keep in mind when creating AAC symbols.
AAC symbols should be representative, not abstract. [PT: AAc symbols should be representative, not abstract.]
An AAC symbol is usually used by an AAC user to distinguish the button they want from the other buttons on the page. Most AAC users scan in some form, and many look for the symbols and not the button's label, meaning that an AAC symbol should in some way be a visual symbol for the concept. This means that wordmojis do not typically work as AAC symbols.
2. The symbols are typically seen only by the user and not who they are speaking with. [PT: The symbols are typically seen only by the user and not who they are speaking with.]
In a Discord emoji, both the person communicating and who they are communicating with see the emoji. With high-tech AAC, typically only the AAC user sees the symbol, with the people they're talking with audibly hearing the words instead. There are some exceptions, such as light tech AAC or situations where an AAC user is showing their screen to who they are talking with, but they are generally exceptions.
3. Avoid low contrast. [PT: Avoid low contrast.]
An AAC symbol on a button is generally very small, and it is usually one of many buttons on a page, and it is usually on a coloured backdrop. Furthermore, there are many AAC users who are blind or low vision. Having high contrast on your symbols, such as by making the lineart much darker than the filling, makes your symbol easier to see and makes the details easier to notice.
4. High levels of detail usually disappear on an AAC board. [PT: High levels of detail usually disappear on an AAC board.]
Because buttons are small and there are usually many buttons on a page, high levels of detail tend to be very hard to notice when a symbol is on a button. Furthermore, lots of detail can make a symbol visually busy and thus potentially overwhelming for an AAC user.
5. Many AAC users dislike words on their symbols. [PT: Many AAC users dislike words on their symbols.]
Most AAC users have words on the button label already. For some, this means that having words on the symbol as well is redundant, overwhelming, or annoying. If you put words on your symbols, it is best to also provide a version without words for those who prefer that.
I hope that this is informative and helpful. Please do keep in mind that while I am an AAC user and an AAC symbol artist, I am only one of many, and AAC users are not a monolith. The advice I have provided here reflects the common attitudes I have seen in the community but it will not reflect the entire community.
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"Do you know what lies on the path before you? I do."
Meet Stig, my little blind norn seer with his flock of bird friends :) A Herald with a twist. Eventually a Wayfinder, separate from the Commander!
Sooooo I've already had this character for a while, (both in gw2 and out). I have a sylvari version of him — and he will still be existing and thriving as a separate character! However, I wanted to bring the original version of him to life as well. He always had Nordic themes, so making this version of him a norn was an obvious choice
Anyway, there is lore and a funny sketch under the cut for those who'd want to look at them!! (a huge chunk of text again, yeah, I'm sorry. It's featuring @lady-quen's Numen, though!! *wink wink*)
Maybe the weakest, skinniest little norn with nothing much behind his name, Stig was somewhat of an outcast from the moment he was born. Blind since birth, he was "blessed" by an elusive Cuckoo Spirit to help him on his life's journey, yet unable to shapeshift into their form or communicate with them, no matter how hard he tried. He was considered unworthy of norns' boastful lifestyle by some, and pitied for his misfortunes by others, although nobody could ever compare to how he looked upon himself for the happenstance of his birth. Was he "defective" in some way, not worth the effort to lift him up and let him live a life, try to reach for something more?
Still staying loyal to Cuckoo even without their support, Stig turned to Raven after being noticed by him for the cleverness with which the little norn tried to overcome the burdens of his own existence — there, at a young age, was discovered his gift of foresight, an explanation to all the weird sensory visions he would receive; some of them even looked as if he could actually see. Different kinds, both cryptic and mundane. Finally, something he could do and help others with, right? It was probably nice for a time, until enough commotions or unfortunate events were caused, maybe even blamed on him for doing his job wrong, causing Stig to be ever more cautious with sharing what he had gleaned.
Two ravens he rescued were his main company, aside from occasionally the kid of the famous Eir Stegalkin and his little brother with a strange affinity for ice magic. One day, however, the scenery changed into a strange landscape, an echo of the real world, as Stig stumbled through a wayward portal into the Mists. He had to survive there for a time all alone, not even his feathery friends to accompany him, communing with Spirits — then anyone, who'd listen — and desperately trying to get back home. A subtle whisper in his head grew louder the more time he spent essentially meditating, a voice of a person, until it formed and presented itself as none other than Asgeir Dragonrender. With his, rather frustrated at first, help, the little norn managed to get back to the world of the living, though not before getting injured on the way home — a weird, potent surge of lightning struck him. He awoke back home already tended to.
Other norn don't believe him at first when he claims Asgeir was the one to help and guide him — it takes a bit of convincing, talking with the legendary hero's echo and showing Stig's newfound strengths. He can channel the power of the Mists through their connection now, something only havrouns of the Spirits of the Wild can typically do. This earns him the respect of his peers — after all, he is aided by Dragonrender himself. People around him wonder: this must mean he could be the one to crack the Tooth, the Norn of Prophecy, right? Someone Stig never even dared to believe he could be.
However, it was never meant to be. After all the extra training and tireless nights of adapting the chosen combat style to his needs, the one to challange the Tooth wasn't him — instead, it was the hot-headed son of Eir, his friend Braham, who's been adventuring with the famous Pact Commander away from Hoelbrak. One arrow was fired — and as the icy exterior of the trophy crumbled, so did Stig's hopes of proving himself worthy to these people. He became an outcast again. At least his birds and Asgeir were still with him. It didn't matter that Braham supposedly failed his mission to kill the Ice Dragon afterwards: the damage was already done.
Then everything started to go downhill once Kralkatorrik was slain. Unexplainable mysteries, strange fog, disappearances. His friend becoming more and more distant and physically cold until one day he was gone as well. One of the only people who showed Stig what kindness looked like, aside from his mother. It was distressing, scary, none of his visions showing him the way — so he had to find his own, once again. This was the decision that led him to join the Commander and Braham in their venture to the Far Shiverpeaks, and discover the true nature of the little elementalist he called a friend — a scion and champion of Jormag, Numen, who's been the mysterious Cuckoo "Spirit" this whole time.
The team has to confront this dragon on the surface of a cold, frozen Lake Doric — and Asgeir recognizes it. Every norn knows the story of the legendary slayer of Frostfang — Dragonrender killed Jormag's greatest champion in one blow with the help of the Spirits. It was a clear victory, the thing falling off a cliff from the sheer force of the blow, mortally wounded. So how could the very same creature stand before him once again?
The question was answered when the dragon showed the large scar on their neck; they didn't quite remember the fight, but the old wound spoke for itself. A surprise for everyone involved — the greatest kill of Asgeir turned out to be a failure. Remains of the beast were confused with those of Claws of Jormag. And maybe a fact worst of all for the echo of a fallen hero — the frigid monster he was sure he had slain turned out to be one of the very Spirits that helped guide his people to the new home.
(Cue the funny sketch I promised)
Even after that, the team managed to save Numen and end the terror of both Dragons of Fire and Ice.
Eventually, Stig would become Numen's Champion, wanting to be there for them like the dragon was for him. Maybe he had finally found a place he was meant to be in, beside this creature of ice — lonely, yet so full of love for the world. Asgeir wasn't too amused, but what is one more voice in Stig's head, right?
This would mean he'd continue to help the Commander further down the line, and maybe even meet the elusive wizards in their glittering towers — who might have a hand in him meeting Asgeir in the first place.
Woah, if you got to this part, thank you for reading!! I love you <3
#i did it again i wrote a bunch of text#hopefully it's fine#*shatters like an icicle*#sitting on the artparty stuff still just had to get this guy out of my head asap#gw2#guild wars 2#gw2 norn#norn#gw2 wayfinder#gw2 art#he gets a separate tag#stig the seer#also mentioned#numen#gw2 asgeir dragonrender#mith draws#oc loredump
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well people. . It's time, aka Akane's monthly revival because there's Luka content. And gosh do I have a lot to say about this. Except.. I'm not going to market these as theories, but as predictions. I think as an og fan I've seen enough to be this confident in my abilities LOL
Quickly, I'd like to address the lyrics and the title, because I will reference it later and I don't want to have to explain mid-prediction.
Wiege has two meanings, and both are so fitting:
1. Cradle. It feels.. perfect, for me. It makes so much sense. Luka was a cold child.. but I'd like to say only physically. I feel like he genuinely warmed up towards Hyuna and Hyunwoo as a child. And I'm going to bring an idea that might get me a bit of backlash but.. I've gotten worse, and that is, that Hyuna is at fault for Luka's approach on his feelings. (Audience boos) From the little we know about Hyunwoo, I feel like Hyuna treated both him and Luka.. at least a little bit similarly. Or at least, Luka couldn't discern a difference, if there was any. Luka is a tube baby, he probably doesn't know (and I am not babying him here, I'd like to add!) what "siblings" he has. For him, affection might just be all and the same. Yes, it wasn't Hyuna's responsibility to teach him, but I feel like a hint was there "Your life is mine", and she could've explained, in a way. But, back to our discussion, Hyuna was Luka's cradle. She burns as bright as the sun, while he's colder. But most importantly, she was his only true friend (Considering I don't think his relationship with Hyunwoo was extremely close, even though they were 'friends'), someone he thought truly cared about him. Hyuna was Luka's cradle, holding him close, comfortable... until at one point, he outgrows that cradle (Hyunwoo's death).
And the second meaning, beginning. In the picture we got, Luka is centered, he's in the middle.. but he's so small, and overshadowed by the tree. Luka is the best performer of the ANAKT, always first, but has no friends. But perhaps, he was better that way. Then, Hyuna comes, and it's a new beginning. He's finally not alone. What I've noticed in the new banner, Luka is missing, but across the tree trunk, in his place, is a taller shadow. Perhaps, a shadow of who Luka was, hopefully still left in there. Or, the other way around, it symbolizes his real self being left there.
And the lyrics:
When I close my eyes,
Play in paradise.
These, to me, remind me of the interview where Luka said his favorite game was hide and seek. In a way, his whole ANAKT life was a game of hide and seek: hiding all the time, but no one trying to seek him. Until Hyuna did, and found him. Something that intrigues me is the "paradise", which to me sounds like what Mizi once said: Dying in competition means returning to the Great Anakt, which I suppose is to them like Heaven.. or Paradise. This will be important later, so remember it.
And now, my predictions for the HyuLuka episode
! First of all, I think the song will be lullaby-like. When I first saw this teaser, with the lyrics, as weird as it sounds, it reminded me of Richard's song in The Hero in TAWOG, a song that always gets me to cry for some reason, and I've been really stuck on that . It would be interesting, because it would fit Luka's voice (as does everything else), but probably not Hyuna's, even though 6FU; would eat it.. which to me, sounds like their "love", where Luka loves her, but it isn't returned. I'd love to see more German in it than just in the title. And considering the nostalgic, pastel, very cutesy artstyle (that reminds me of the memory part from Jordan River animation!), it seems very viable. But the art style is also noisy, which gives an unsettling vibe. It feels like a 2020's dreamcore wallpaper.
I might be crazy, but the hand holding the flower (with only 3 stamens, like the 3 friends) looks dark-skinned, like it would be Hyuna's or Hyunwoo's, but I doubt it would be his, considering it's the account's profile picture. If this is some kind of reference to.. perhaps, an unrequited Hyuluka but the other way around, with Hyuna still not over Luka.. probably won't happen, but God, would that be awesome.
So, how do I think the round will go?
First of all, I have to say, I'm not sure if this will be a round or a Mizisua type episode.😭 I'd say "oh the wait time is way too small" but also... do you guys remember the production announcement of Round 7? Yeah. You can never be sure.
This isn't necessarily a prediction, but more of a suggestion of what could be: It would be SO cool if it would be both.. in a way, merged. This idea just appeared in my mind and I was like OH. MY. GOD. Imagine if almost the whole thing was just them, as children, having fun, a whole backstory.. but then, when Hyunwoo dies, it pans on his face, and then it's back on stage, the loser's face instead of his. It would be so heartwarming, and then DEEPLY DISTURBING and traumatizing. I also really want some Luka and Heperu backstory so I can hate Heperu even more.
On the topic of the loser... It's going to be Luka. I'm an insane Luka lover and it was hard to get accommodated to this idea, but there is no way that he will survive. First of all, the shadow in the account's banner, in place of Luka. It's implications... are quite obvious. Second, the pattern of characters shown in Sweet Dream, and he is next. Third: "In my arms, you would be protected." I feel like Luka would consider the competition "In his arms". I don't think he would break his promise: hear me out for a second. He wouldn't let Hyuna die this way, because I feel like his sense of possession over her also comes with responsibility and protectiveness. And fourth, the Paradise lyric, to me, is a foreshadowing of his death.
I also think he will die by self sacrifice. First of all, there's no way Hyuna could defeat Luka by pure odds. Yes, her stats are better, but lets be honest, her mental power would NOT be as good infront of Luka, and also, the aliens wouldn't vote her. She's a rebel, wanted for so much time, with technically no guardian: they wouldn't want her to defeat their prince, probably. And second, I have made two categories:
The "perfects": Sua, Ivan, Luka
The "rebels": Mizi, Till, Hyuna
See something similar? Both the perfects that are dead, have died by self-sacrifice. The only other dead character, Till, has been shot while reaching for his freedom, so you can't say this is for all characters. And let's be honest.. Patterns are usually being followed in this series. Id also like to add, even though it's a reach, that in a tier of how 'perfect' they are, it'd be:
1. Luka
2. Sua - not so obvious self sacrifice
3. Ivan - obvious self sacrifice
So, I'd say that Luka's might be even more backstage, as if to sabotage himself in a way that seems viable. It also kind of goes in line with his character, he's not one to break facade on stage.
I think this episode will be quite a deep-dive into their true selves. We know the least about them, so this will be GREAT. I'd love to see a more morally gray Hyuna in this. (Since I'm genuinely kind of tired of only Luka being villainized in the ship, which honestly.. is kind of in line with the other perfects. Let's let Mizi, Till and Hyuna be little freaks too) I also want to see atleast a little bit of Hyunwoo, like a little snippet of his mind, what he saw in Luka.
In conclusion, I'm SO happy and hyped about this HyuLuka episode, they're so mysterious and I really really want to see more of L- I mean, more of them. Getting 2 episodes where Luka is present one after another is literally THE dream to me. Basically, Wiege is killing me and I'm gladly letting it.
@4listr Since you asked to be tagged and also, @rockwgooglyeyes I REALLY want your opinion on this
#alien stage#alnst#vivinos#alien stage Luka#alnst Luka#Luka alien stage#Luka alnst#alnst hyuna#hyuna alnst#alien stage hyuna#hyuna alien stage#hyuluka#hyunaluka#wiege alien stage#vivinos alien stage#hyunwoo alnst#theory#alnst theory#but this is just a theory.. a GAME theory
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compilation of nice/sweet things the foxes said to neil because even though they're a bunch of assholes who insult anyone in their vicinity they all just love him so damn much - except aaron - (part 3) :
ANDREW :
"I said I would keep you alive this year. you make it infinitely more difficult for me when you actively try to get yourself killed."
"the next time someone comes from you, stand down and let me deal with it. do you understand?"
"you were supposed to be a side effect of the drugs" "I'm not a hallucination" "you are a pipe dream."
"what would you give me?" "don't ask questions you already know the answer to"
"this isn't yes. this is a nervous breakdown. I know the difference even if you don't. I won't be like them. I won't let you let me be."
"I've never understood why he likes knives" "he will lose his taste when he has one in his gut"
"kevin is a fool whose style is numbers and angles. formulas and statistics, trial and error, repetition and insanity. all he cares about is finding the perfect game. a junkie like you can't be that cold."
"last summer you made me a promise. I'm asking you to break it." "no." "you said you'd stick with me if I kept kevin south, but kevin doesn't need me anymore. he chose us over the ravens because as a whole we're finally worth his time. there's nothing else I can give you in exchange for your protection." "I will think of something."
"spring break's coming. we could go someplace" "where and why?" "anywhere. anywhere at least three hours from campus. there's no point in going someplace closer than that. it won't feel like a vacation. the only trick is figuring out how to pry kevin away from the court" "I have knives"
"no one's said a word to them since they said we couldn't see you"
"if you tell me to leave I'll go" "you aren't going anywhere"
"I have to go. I don't trust them to give you back."
"ready?" "waiting on you"
"can I really be neil again?" "I told neil to stay. leave nathaniel buried in baltimore with his father."
"andrew could break our deal and let me go or break things off with neil" "he chose neil over you?"
"your close calls are getting old. I thought you knew how to run" "I thought you told me to stop running" "survival tip: no one likes a smart mouth" "except you"
WYMACK :
"I can't believe you trusted david to patch you up" "I was careful with him"
"you're a hundred times better now than you were in may. don't sell yourself short."
"go easy for a few days, would you?"
"are you okay?"
"neil asked us to leave the authorities out of this. I respect him enough to allow that"
"didn't I tell you not to worry about it?"
"I'm making you vice-captain next year"
"didn't you notice? they're uniting around and behind you. that's something special. you're something special."
"look me in the eye and tell me if you think I care who you used to be. hm? I care about who you are right now and who you can be going forward. I'm not asking you to forget your past, but I am telling you to overcome it."
"neil. talk to me. what do you want?"
"giving up on neil now goes against everything we are."
"I'm sorry. I should've told you but I couldn't" "don't worry about that right now."
"we'll wait for you, all right? as long as it takes, neil"
"I should be thanking you. you told us last night you intended to end the year dead or in federal custody. you could have shut everyone and everything out and worried about yourself this year. instead you agreed to help dan fix this team. you're saving the two I thought we couldn't reach, and you're a living example for kevin to follow. he never used to watch you but he's had eyes on you since december trying to figure out how you stand your ground."
"they told me to call them as soon as you returned. have you returned?"
"neil is a critical member of my team. you can ask any person on my line-up and they will all agree : we would not be where we are today if he wasn't here with us."
MATT :
"I want to break his face in six places. if he ever comes within a thousand yards of you again-"
"you okay?" "I'm fine" "for the record, I don't believe you"
"neil? we're here when you want to talk about it"
"neil? you good?"
"we're all legal adults here. we've made our decision. unless he wants to stay with you, you'd better bring neil back to us when you're done with all your questions
"hey, coach made us promise to leave you alone but are you okay?"
"they will get rid of me" "you're not serious"
"things could have gone much worse. I'm glad they didn't. you want anything, you need anything, you let us know. okay?" "okay" "I mean it" "I know. I'm done lying to you, matt. I promise."
"did andrew really choke kevin?" "took three of us to pull him off"
"we can't replace you"
DAN :
"neil? if you want to talk about any of it, or anything, or... you know we're here for you, right? whatever you need."
"kevin knew about this didn't he? he knew what riko was going to do to you and he let you go anyway. the next time I see him-"
"don't do this to us. don't sit here and lie to our faces. we're your friends. we deserve better than that."
"you told the truth. it's not your fault they don't like it."
"are you sure you're okay, neil?"
"go. but come back to us as soon as they're done with you, okay? we'll figure this out as a team."
"you're not playing. you think coach will let you on the court when you look like that? I'll sub in for you, neil. renee can help allison out one more time, right? trust us to hold the line. you focus on healing so we can use you in semifinals."
KEVIN :
"kevin called me yesterday morning when he couldn't get a hold of you. he wanted to make sure you were okay."
NICKY :
"don't you dare tell me you're fine. I can't hear that from you today, okay?"
"you can't have neil. he belongs with us"
"neil isn't a real person. it's just a cover that let nathaniel evade authorities. it's past time to let him go." "neil or nathaniel or whoever. he's ours, and we're not letting him go. you want us to vote on it or something? bet you it'll be unanimous."
"don't worry. andrew will protect you."
"hey, you good?"
ALLISON :
"it would have neen better if you'd come to the store with us. it doesn't matter. I bought out the entire row."
"I'm sorry" "shut up. no you're not. you're not. have you forgotten who has to paint you back together every morning? if you'd let them steamroll you yesterday after all this I would hate you"
"it is not safe for [neil] here anymore and it sure as hell isn't safe for you. it is better for everyone if he disappears." "what part of 'go to hell' do you need us to explain to you?"
RENEE :
"so those knives he brings everywhere are yours?" "were mine. he was right; I don't need them anymore. if you need them, he will give them to you, and I will teach you how to use them"
"if you want to talk more later, you know where to find me"
"will you be all right here?"
"kevin is very analytical whereas you're passionate."
"what do you need from us, neil?"
"I can do it." "I know you can. but perhaps it's easier if someone helps you."
ABBY :
"sometimes I think this job is going to kill me. seeing what people have done, what people continue to do, to my foxes. I wish I could protect you but I'm always too late. all I can do is patch you up afterward and hope for the best. I'm sorry, neil. we should have been there for you"
"let me take a look at you"
"it's over. it's over. you're going to be okay. we've got you."
"I dropped my gear in new york" "andrew found it while he was looking for you"
#aftg#all for the game#neil josten#andrew minyard#andreil#kevin day#david wymack#matt boyd#dan wilds#renee walker#allison reynolds#nicky hemmick#abby winfield#the kings men#psu foxes#the foxes#tfc
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hello… well first of all what i'm about to write might be a bit long, i apologize in advance for taking up your time. i'm actually a bit hesitant. i've asked this from other artists and they've been quite rude to me. i don't know if i'm asking for something wrong but if so please politely refuse.
i'm going through a bit of a depressing time, i'm trying to draw simple things to take my mind off things. i have no intention of becoming a professional for now, i just want to draw chibi.
that's what i asked the artists, reference. i want to draw jake sully, i need someone to guide me in a simple way. i need someone to show me the basic rules, show me how to draw thick dreadlocks. like a little guide…
i like your drawings in general but i like your chibi drawings so much differently. you draw so beautifully, especially the way you paint… i will always wonder how you do it. i don't want to steal or copy, i just want to draw chibis close to your style until i find my own style. i have no idea how to draw those hairs in different poses, head movements and i am sure there is a rule.
i don't know if i should write to you or not but you are really my favorite artist and i want my style to be close to yours. i would really be happy if you could help me, really
Hey there! 😊 First of all, I'm so happy you decided to reach out to me! I'm more than happy to answer any questions or help anyone who’s just starting out or wants to learn any techniques I can share. I recently answered some technique-related questions on my Instagram, and I’ve saved some in my highlights if you’re interested—hopefully, they’ll be useful!
I totally get how it feels to learn on your own, and sometimes just a little bit of advice can make a huge difference.
Also, just to mention, I’ve answered this question before on my IG too—about starting to draw by copying or drawing in the style of artists you like. (As long as it's not tracing or claiming others' work, of course!) I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. Eventually, when you practice by using techniques and styles from different artists, you’ll start finding your own style too. I did the same thing, so no worries—you’ll find yours soon enough! 😊
Now, let's get started! I’ve made two videos—one on how to draw chibi Jake Sully, and since this is my blog where I post Sleep Token art, I also included how to draw Vessel too! 😂😂
And just a heads-up: English isn’t my first language (and I'm not great at it), and I’ve never made a video or taught anyone before. So, if anything is unclear or confusing, feel free to ask anytime—I’m happy to help! Have fun drawing! ✨ Jake Sully
youtube
Vessel
youtube
#sleep token#sleep token art#sleep token band#sleep token worship#sleep token vessel#sleep token vessel art#sleep token vessel fanart#sleep token iii art#sleep token fanart#jake sully#avatar the way of water#avatar jake#avatar quaritch#miles quaritch#avatar fanart#avatar 2#avatar twow#avatar 3
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How to Stay Motivated as a Writer.
I ran a poll to celebrate reaching 50 reblogs because you guys are amazing, and this topic won the poll.
(This is a bit lengthy, but I advise you to read to the very end. These are the kind of tips you rarely find without a fee, but for your amazing support so far, you get this from me for free.)
Let's dive in!
Before I became a writing coach, lack of motivation was something I battled with. Writing started to feel like a waste of my time, but whenever I stopped, I still found my way back somehow.
After a few more months of struggling and finding a clear routine that worked for me, I became a writing coach. Believe me when I say that it was such a commitment, and you'd never know until you get your first student.
I only knew how to stay motivated as an individual. After two students, I realized that motivation was also something they struggled with, and as their coach, it became my duty to offer solutions. In fact, nine out of ten writers struggle with this same problem, so I came up with the 'why and what' technique.
What is the 'why and what' technique?
This technique is a template to figure out the main reason a writer isn't motivated at the current time, which allows for the provision of tailored and personalized solutions to solve the specific problem. In other words: Understanding the why (the main reason for the lack of motivation at the time) to figure out the what (effective solution to solve the main reason).
Lack of motivation is pretty subjective and varies widely. Giving a particular piece of advice may work for some and not for others, which is why I ensured my technique benefits all.
I'll give examples of common reasons writers lack motivation for writing using the template. If you don't find any that relate to you, write it in the comments and get a personalized solution from me.
1. Lack of Inspiration
Why:
- Feeling uninspired by current projects.
- Overwhelmed by the vastness of ideas.
- Stuck in a creative rut.
What:
- Change your environment: Sometimes a new setting can spark creativity. Try writing in a different location, like a park or a café.
- Consume creative content: Read books, watch movies, or listen to music that inspires you.
- Engage in Free Writing: Set a timer for 10 minutes and write whatever comes to mind without worrying about structure or grammar.
- Take a step back: You are no less of a writer if you decide to take a break and watch other writers from afar. Personally, it's difficult to write when I'm not inspired. I find myself editing more than usual and, at times, discarding the piece I spent hours on. So for a little while, I only engaged online and learned other ways to improve my skills with the time on my hands.
2. Fear of Failure
Why:
- Worrying that your writing isn't good enough.
- Comparing yourself to other writers.
- Fear of negative feedback.
What:
- Set small goals: Break down your writing project into manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Seek constructive feedback: Share your work with trusted friends or writing groups who can provide supportive and constructive criticism.
- Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Always remember that our writing styles differ from one another, and that is what makes us unique as writers.
3. Lack of Time
Why:
- Busy schedules and other commitments.
- Difficulty prioritizing writing.
What:
- Create a writing schedule: Dedicate specific times in your day or week for writing and stick to it.
- Use writing prompts: Short prompts can help you get started quickly and make the most of limited time.
- Eliminate distractions: Find a quiet space and turn off notifications to focus solely on writing.
- Create or join writing challenges: Activities like the 3-day writing challenge, writing a novel in 6 months, the 7-day character creation challenge, the fantasy writers challenge, etc., have specific guidelines tailored to helping writers stay motivated and at the same time productive in limited times.
4. Perfectionism
Why:
- Striving for perfection in every sentence.
- Reluctance to move forward until everything is perfect.
What:
- Embrace the draft: Accept that your first draft doesn't have to be perfect. Focus on getting your ideas down first.
- Set time limits: Give yourself a set amount of time to write and then move on, even if it's not perfect.
- Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that it's okay to make mistakes and that writing is a process.
-Listen to writing podcasts or join a valuable writing newsletter: You will learn more about the writing industry and writing processes of other established writers, their wins, struggles, difficulties, appreciations, etc., which can serve as an assurance that you are facing the processes of a typical writer.
Here's a podcast and newsletter for writers I totally recommend—The Shit No One Tells You About Writing. You can listen to The Shit No One Tells You About Writing on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify or sign up for their newsletter.
5. Burnout
Why:
- Writing too much without breaks.
- Feeling exhausted and mentally drained.
- Stressed out from other engagements
What:
- Take regular breaks: Schedule breaks during your writing sessions to rest and recharge.
- Engage in other hobbies: Spend time on activities you enjoy outside of writing to refresh your mind.
- Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help reduce stress and improve focus.
- Listen to music: It's an amazing mind therapy.
6. Lack of Support
Why:
- Feeling isolated in your writing journey.
- Lack of encouragement from others.
What:
- Join writing communities: Connect with other writers through online forums, local writing groups, or social media.
- Find a writing buddy: Partner with another writer to share progress, provide feedback, and offer mutual support.
- Attend workshops and events: Participate in writing workshops, conferences, or webinars to learn and network with others.
- Get a writing coach: Find a coach that will dedicate their time assisting you through your writing processes.
7. Working on Too Many Drafts Simultaneously
Why:
- Overwhelmed by multiple projects.
- Difficulty prioritizing which story to focus on.
- Constantly switching between drafts, leading to a lack of progress.
What:
- Prioritize projects: Choose one or two main projects to focus on and set the others aside temporarily. This helps you concentrate your efforts and make significant progress.
- Create a project schedule: Allocate specific times or days for each project. For example, work on one story in the mornings and another in the afternoons.
- Set clear milestones: Break each project into bit-sized, manageable tasks with deadlines. Celebrate when you reach these milestones to stay motivated.
- Limit new ideas: Keep a notebook or digital file for new ideas, but resist the urge to start new projects until you complete your current ones.
- Use a timer: Work on one project for a set amount of time (e.g., 25 minutes using the Pomodoro Technique) before taking a break or switching to another task.
8. Frustration of Not Completing Any Stories
Why:
- Feeling stuck or losing interest in projects.
- Perfectionism preventing you from finishing.
- Lack of a clear plan or direction.
What:
- Set realistic goals: Define what "completion" means for each project (e.g., finishing a first draft, reaching a certain word count) and work towards that.
- Embrace imperfection: Accept that your first draft doesn't have to be perfect. Focus on getting the story down, and you can revise it later.
- Find accountability: Share your goals with a writing buddy or group who can help keep you on track and provide encouragement.
- Reward yourself: Plan small rewards for completing sections of your work. This can be anything from a favorite snack to a relaxing activity.
- Reflect on your progress: Regularly review what you've accomplished to remind yourself of your progress and stay motivated.
- Set a clear outline for your story: Having a clear and detailed outline for a story makes it difficult to run out of ideas.
- Share your achievements with others: Achievement posts are one of the posts that receive more engagement from people. I'm quite aware of Substack. The notes with the highest engagement have to do with achievements. People find those notes empowering and inspiring. Share your wins with others and let them celebrate with you.
9. Working on Too Many Drafts
Why:
- Perfectionism leading to endless revisions.
- Difficulty deciding when a draft is "good enough."
- Fear of publishing an imperfect work.
What:
- Set a draft limit: Decide on a maximum number of drafts (e.g., three to five) before moving on to the next stage.
- Establish clear goals for each draft: Define what you want to achieve with each draft (e.g., plot consistency, character development, grammar).
- Seek external feedback: Get input from beta readers or a professional editor after a set number of drafts to gain fresh perspectives.
- Create a timeline: Set deadlines for each draft to avoid getting stuck in a cycle of endless revisions.
10. Trying to Earn with Your Writing
Why:
- Financial pressure to monetize your writing.
- Balancing creative passion with commercial viability.
- Navigating the competitive market.
What:
- Diversify income streams: Explore various ways to earn from your writing, such as freelancing, self-publishing, blogging, or offering writing services.
- Build an online presence: Use social media, a personal blog, or platforms like Tumblr, TikTok, and Instagram to showcase your work and connect with potential readers and clients.
Remember, If you don't find any that relate to you, write it in the comments and get a personalized solution from me.
- Offer exclusive content: Create special content or giveaways for your audience to increase engagement and loyalty.
- Learn marketing skills: Invest time in learning about book marketing, SEO, and social media strategies to effectively promote your work.
- Network with other writers: Join writing communities and attend workshops or conferences to learn from others and find opportunities for collaboration.
Remember, If you don't find any that relate to you, write it in the comments and get a personalized solution from me.
Reblog to save for later 😉. Once again thank you for supporting my blog!
#writing#writers on tumblr#writeblr#writers and poets#writing community#writerscommunity#ao3 writer#wattpad#a03 writer#writer#writing tips#writing stuff#creative wrting#on writing#creative writing#writing advice#motivation#writers#writing struggles#writing strategies#writing style#writing stories#story writing#writing snippet#writing tool#writing techniques#writing template
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back to square one with the hair I guess, but I literally don't know what else to try to make his hairstyle work with strands without beard, so I guess for me until there's proper mesh editing supported I'm just leaving it be. Also did my own chest hair texture since I wanted to add scars as well, will be trying to mix the arms outfit this outfit with something tomorrow BUT
I'm kinda digging it
Like he looks different, but good different
Honestly, this started off as 'idk what else to do at this point', but now I'm into this whole 'beardless Luca with scrappy hair' thing 😂 Maybe a bit too FF style for my liking, but ah well
Okay, I give up on trying to port his hair/beard mesh into CC, but ummm beardless Lucanis face is so surprisingly angular. And by that I mean GODDAMIT CHEEKBONES
#not sure if I like the scars maybe I'll play with them too tomorrow#maybe a scar close to the heart would be nice 👀#I legit slapped the first once that looked decent because I'm tired#I legit spent like 10 hours trying to get rid of the beard either I'm that stupid or it's undoable atm#probably the former#but like I legit did the mesh export the resizing of beard the reimport AND NOTHING CHANGED#and nothing changes when I edit strands#either I'm missing a bundle or fuck knows at this point#or wip on mesh editing is there for a reason lol#idkkkkk#it's like the game is pulling a mesh I'm not seeing out of god knows where#aaand with that I really need to get some sleep#honestly rip me this man and his damn beard almost killed me today at least mentally#I need to learn when to stop
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When your older brother is still shorter than you despite him having years to grow up
Diego: You haven't grown at all!
Five: I'm sick of it- It's always the same damn joke every time I visit you!
#tua fanart#the umbrella academy#five hargreeves#diego hargreeves#Apologies in advance for any grammatical errors#It sound fine in my head but then again I have confused some words before 🥲#my doodles#I'm trying something different with the style#This is directly inspired by the fact my younger sibling is taller than me#I firmly believe Diego would continue speaking Spanish post-kugelblitz
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Lan Wangji Goes To Lotus Pier AU: Part 3: Enveloping Feelings.
(Part 1, Part 2, Part 4)
#poorly drawn mdzs#mdzs#lan wangji#Yungmeng Jiang training arc AU#I wanted to try out a different paneling style for this one - sorry I'm a day late! (there will still be a post tomorrow to keep on track)#The original 3 panel comic idea was fine but the point of this new schedule was to take time to push myself a bit more.#I was taking a look back through some comic artists I felt inspired by#and I really loved how Lynda Barry fills her gutters with patterns and doodles!#Obviously I'm not going as absolutely wild with it as she does but it was a great exercise!#I truly think the gutters are the most important and most overlooked part of any comic. There's lots going on in that space.#It's the same with timeskips. The implied movement between moments that we don't see changes depending on how wide that gap is#You're here for the funny tags so here's some that ties this time talk together:#I think LWJ was thinking about that second note from day 2 but it took him 7 days of hazing to commit it to paper.#I think he sends it a day later and immediately regrets it. Chasing down the messenger and everything.#You know if something actually happened to his brother he would never ever forgive himself for putting the bad vibes out there.#Third time skip was the hardest because there was so many possible flavours of jokes here. Day 8/9 was a personal favourite.#day 14 was also funny (week by week). I think the debate on 'how long does lwj take to catch feelings' is more or less:#'how long does it take for him to arrive at a particular stage of grief and yearning (and awareness of it all)#This is a symphony. There is an act by act structure. Every day he is fighting to keep his old sensibilities. He is losing so badly.#(I'll be returning to the main comic soon but there is more of this AU to come!)
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It's going to hurt every time
#DMC'S FAVORITE PINCUSHION!!!!!!!!!!!#devil may cry#devil may cry fanart#dmc dante#dmc dante fanart#dante sparda#pretty difficult to draw this one!! i'm new to drawing faces from this angle#and a different rendering style#aka same as my default but using a smaller brush#please excuse all the style experimentation...... trying to find something that sticks :)#beanie art#dmc fanart
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Little bright colored outfit with a fun vest ~
(shoes from ebay like 10 years ago. everything else is thrifted)
#ootd#jfashion#fashion#fantasy fashion#mori kei#....like... adjacent... lol#no idea what style this would be lol.. makes me think of like whimsical vaguely fantasy themed childrens book character#finally posting one of my aforementioned seven million drafts of actual outfits and costumes i have finished and edited#the photos for but just never feel like posting lol..#I need to find one of those people whos like 'omg i am ADDICTED to social media ugh i wish i could get off of it#im just browsing and posting like 60 times a daaaaay!!!' and take a little magical bottle and suck some of the social media#enthusiasim out of them. for moi. In exchange they can have some of my 'literally just never in the mood to post or interact with the#outside world ever' energy. We can balance each other. huzzah and so on#Though I think maybe it's part of the general thing I've heard of like.. I can't remember if it was in reference to adhd or just some sort#of general execcutive functioning issue type of thing - but the idea that things have to be ''just right'' before you do something. like#'oh i need to do this task. but i have to wait until XYZ first' or 'oh i can do this but only if X specific condition is met' or etc#The fact that I even have to be in a Specific Mindset to post. or sometimes will delay posting on social media because like 'oh well#I'm going somewhere tomorrow. somehow this matters. i cannot spend 5 minuts posting TONIGHT. clearly it will interfere#somehow schedule wise with the doctor appointment i have 15 hours from now. yes. yes. i must wait until my appointment is over#tomorrow afternoon. THEN i shall post' or etc. etc. lol. NOT even taking into account the many days#I just genuinely and physically sick and it's not even a mental thing. I just physically dont feel like sitting at the computer lol..#ANYWAY.. trying to get back into it. trying to get a business bank account.. make a proper paypal so i can start selling sculptures again.#selling clothes and sculptures.. posting about such things then of course as one must. etc... chanting to hype up and motivate myself lol#But yes. this is my favorite outfit out of the bunch so I am posting it first I guess.. maybe others later..#Also the purple dress says its from shein. which I've heard is bad fast fashion stuff. but maybe okay since its second hand? I havent#been to the bins since like 2020 or late 2019 even. and I think stuff like shein and temu has only become poular in the past few years#but I bet if I went to the bins now I might would find a good handfull of that stuff. Probably now not much different than what you#find in a walmart or a forever 21 or actual physical stores you can go to though. I hear quality of clothing is down everywhere no matter#where you get it or whatnot. What bountiful joys unfettered capitalism and exploitation bestows upon us (<being sarcastic).#Wearing one of my favorite little vests though. I love the texture of it and the clasps on it
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I think the world is so wonderful... (Patreon)
#My art#Handplates#UT#Papyrus#I have not been able to get this idea out of my head for like - days now lol#It's only solidified the more I read! Heck!!#I dunno if I was necessarily hoping that reading further would point me in another direction but no now this is one of his songs lol#I really like Rugrats Theory actually :) The song of course it's lovely but I even have some nostalgia for the creepypasta haha#Been a while since I read it tho so that's probably just the soft haze of memory talking lol#But the song is still great! I'm partial to the English cover but I like the original as well :)#There are just so many fun lyrics! Especially for Papyrus specifically#''Everything I've been told I believe and yet people that I love just leave'' Gasterrr#''I think I'm old enough to understand so there's no reason to hide from me'' Sanssssssss#Once I returned to the scene of Sans trying to lie to him I just fjdslahfd these lyrics would Not leave me alone lol#I'm also Extremely partial to the second verse surrounding blindness and willful ignorance - his vision problems literal and metaphorical!#I wasn't planning to start a Handplates playlist but I guess by this point it's kinda too late haha#I also tried a different style of shading for this one ♪ Trying to style match a bit hehe#It's fun! Scratchy - tho some of that is from still using my usual brushes lol#I was Very inspired by watching the comic creation playlist - so cool! Very fun to watch and pick up ideas hehe#I knew I forgot something lol dang it - forgot the dash between WDG-2#S'what I get for using pre-plates references :P#For just a quick little thing I'm fairly pleased overall tho :)
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let them kiss !!
#i think this is the first time i've drawn halo#oops#anyways hanix canon idc#my art#natasha phoenix trace#callie halo bassett#halix#hanix#hannix#phoenix x halo#top gun#top gun maverick#wlw#art#artists on tumblr#sapphic art#lesbian#lesbian art#i can't decide if i want a stylised style or a painterly style lol#painterly takes so long but i do love it lol#i think i'm just gonna try different styles until something sticks#thoughts over
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