#I've been looking forward to this all week

[lvly20]

-`♡´- Acts of love -`♡´-

: ̗̀➛ Enhypen members showing acts of love

Pairing: ot7 x fem!reader

Genre: a lot of fluff, established relationships

Warnings: mild kissing, lot of skinship in jake’s

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⭒ Heeseung ⭒

Shows his love through words; for example writing you songs.

You walk through the door of your shared apartment and are once again greeted by darkness and familiar silence. It didn't come as a surprise to you that Heeseung once again would be spending the evening at the studio producing songs for the group. You let out a sigh as you remove your shoes and walk into the quiet apartment, you were of course proud of Heeseung when it came to what he was doing with music and the group but you couldn’t help but long for an evening with him instead of him coming home around midnight sneaking into bed trying not to wake you. You walk forward to your and Heeseung’s bedroom so you can change out of your clothes but stop in your tracks when you see the closed door.

"Hee?" you call out as you know neither you nor Heeseung ever closes the door when you leave in the morning.

You slowly open the door until you see light creeping out of the crack you've created, and then you open the door fully. You're met with the warm light of the candles set up around the bedroom and the sweet aroma coming from them. Altough what really catches your attention, however, is Heeseung sitting behind a keyboard in front of the bed.

Your gaze wanders around the room, confusion settling in as a gasp escapes your lips.

“I- what is all this?” You look back forward Heeseung.

“I have a surprise for you,” he says, as he motions for you to sit down on the bed.

His excitement is unmistakable as he observes you settling onto the edge of the bed, making you chuckle lightly.

"I've been putting together a little something for you over the past few weeks" he says with a cheeky grin, his fingers dancing across the keyboard quietly.

"I know I've been spending a lot of nights at the studio, but I really hope what I've got out of it will make up for it..." You notice a hint of hesitation when he brings up his absence, and you wait for him to continue.

He lets out a small chuckle and says “What I’m trying to say is, I’ve been working on a song for you, and I’d like to play it to you… if you’d like that?” You see the tip of his ears turn a slight shade of pink and you can’t help the soft giggle that escapes you.

“Of course I’d like to hear it, Hee” you scoot closer to the edge of the bed and look at him with a gentle smile.

You can tell he’s feeling a bit anxious but he returns your smile and clear his throat. His gaze turns to the keyboard and he positions his fingers.

“I hope you’ll like it”.

As he starts playing your heart thumps loudly in your chest. Sure, Heeseung has always been a romantic, but you’d never imagine he’d ever write a love song for your ears only. You can’t help the tears that spill over as you hear him play so beautifully and how the lyrics are so perfectly written.

As the song comes to an end, you find yourself unable to hold back a sniffle. Heeseung stands up and approaches you, kneeling down in front of you.

”I know I’m not always the best at telling you how I feel so I thought I’d tell you through a song… and I hope your tearing up because you liked it and not because it was the worst thing you’ve ever heard” Heeseung chuckles as he gently wipes away a tear from your cheek.

You giggle and shove him slightly. “It’s the most beautiful song I’ve ever heard” you let out before you press a kiss to his lips.

Heeseung grins against your lips before kissing you again. “Good, because it’s all for you.

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⭒ Jay ⭒

Shows his love through actions, such as giving gifts or doing something for them.

The stress from the week weights heavily on your shoulders as you walk through the door to your and Jay’s shared apartment. You let out a weary sigh as you go to remove your jacket when something catches your attention- a small, beautifully wrapped box that sits on the drawer beside the door, and only then do you also pick up on the soft music playing in the distance.

“Jay?” You call out as you remove your shoes and pick up the box.

You hear soft footsteps approach and soon Jay comes into view.

“Hi, darling” he greets warmly with his signature smile lightning up his face

“Hi… What’s this?” You ask, holding up the box as Jay comes closer.

“Open it and see” he says as he kisses your temple.

You give him a suspicious look as you read the small note wrapped onto the box: “for you, just because”. A smile brings it’s way on your face and you glance at him before you start to carefully unwrap the gift. At the sight of the gorgeous diamond necklace inside you gasp.

“It’s so beautiful” you murmur, looking up at him with wide eyes. “But… why?”.

“Come with me” he answers, his tone secretive but gentle as he takes your hand. He leads you to the dinner table where you once again let out a gasp. The table is set with your favorite meal, with glasses of your favorite wine beside gleaming in the warm glow of the candles he’s lit.

“Jay…” You whisper, turning to look at him in awe. “What is all this?”.

He grins slightly as he reaches for the necklace in your hand. “I know works been hard on you lately, so I wanted to do something to help you relax” he answers, his voice low and sincere.

“You didn’t have to go through all this trouble…” you protest, as he moves behind you to clasp the necklace around your neck. “Just being here with you is enough”.

“I know” he murmurs against your ear, his voice sending shivers down your spine. “But you deserve this… and so much more” his fingers brush softly against your skin as he readjust the necklace, then he turns you around to press a kiss softly to your lips.

”Now” he says, guiding you to a chair and pulling it out for you. “sit down and let me take care of you tonight”.

As you settle into your seat, you see him take a seat in front of you across the table, and your heart swells with love at the sight of him and you ask yourself how you got so lucky.

“Thank you for this” you say softly, your eyes brimming with affection.

He shakes his head, a glint of love in his eyes. “Don’t thank me. Like I said, you deserve this, my love”.

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⭒ Jake ⭒

Shows his love through physical touch, a way of making sure you feel his love and care.

The air feels slightly colder as you stretch, your head still foggy from just have woken up. You open your eyes and squint as they adjust to the morning light. A smile spreads across your face once your ears pick up on the soft sound of your boyfriend’s breathing.

You try to turn over, but his arms are wrapped tightly around you, holding you firmly against his chest.

You let out a quiet giggle as your movements stirs him. He groans slightly and instinctively tightens his hold around you.

“It’s too early. Go back to sleep” he murmurs with his groggy, sleepy voice, sending goosebumps across your skin.

“It’s 9 am, Jake” you giggle as you once again try to turn around, this time successful as you’re greeted by the sight of your half-asleep boyfriend.

You can’t help but smile as you look at him. His hair is disheveled and his lips are slightly pouty as he continues trying to sleep.

“You know” he mutters, his voice tinged with amusement. “I can feel you staring” a grin tugs at the corners of his lips.

You scoff playfully and close your eyes. “I’m not staring” you protest, pouting. But your eyes flutters open when you feel a pair of soft lips on yours.

You’re met with his brown, deep eyes as he smirks at you. “It’s okay” he says, tone teasing. “I like when you look at me”. His hand glides along your back, sending warmth through you.

Your face feels warm but you can’t bring yourself to care- not when he looks at you so intensely.

“I love waking up next to you” he whispers, his right thumb making circles against your skin.

A fond smile spreads across your face. “ I love waking up next to you too, Jake” you reply, your voice tender. You then move your left hand to the side of his face , your fingers tracing his jaw with tenderness. “You make me so happy”.

Jakes smile softens, his eyes filled with warmth as he pulls you even closer. “I love holding you”, he murmurs, burying his face into your neck. “You’re so warm” he adds, his words muffled against your skin as you feel shivers move through your body.

A giggle leaves you as his lips brush along your jaw. “Jake… it tickles” you laugh, squirming slightly.

“Hmph… I don’t care. I like kissing you” he answers, his voice playful as he peppers more kisses along your jawline, before moving up to your cheek, making you laugh more.

Finally, he pulls back to look into your eyes. His gaze is deep and filled with emotion. “I love you, you know” he says, his fingers tracing your back.

Your heart swells, and you smile at him, your voice soft as you reply, “I love you too, Jake”. You lean closer so you can wrap your arms around him, relishing in his warmth.

Jake holds onto you tightly, once again burying his face into the crook of your neck, as the two of you stay wrapped in each other’s embrace.

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⭒ Sunghoon ⭒

Shows his love in a subtle and quiet way trough meaningful gestures, such as remembering small details.

Sunghoon opens the door to the restaurant for you, and you smile warmly at him before stepping inside. The restaurant is dimly lit and the scent of food quickly envelops your senses. You feel the warmth of sunghoon’s hand resting against your back as the waiter guide you to your table.

Once the waiter leaves sunghoon pulls out your chair for you and you give him a soft thank you before you settle into your chair. You watch as sunghoon walks around the table and sit down across from you.

Your eyes wander around the area and a smile forms on your lips. “It’s so nice here” you say, your fingers lightly tracing the utensils neatly wrapped in a napkin on the table.

Sunghoon nods, a grin tugging on his lips. “I’ve been meaning to bring you here since I saw that it opened, but work has been stressful…” he trails off, guilt flickering in his expression.

You reach over and grab his hand that he had resting on the table in yours and rub his knuckles with your thumb.

“It’s okay” you reassure him, your voice soft. “We’re here now, that’s all that matters to me… besides,” you continue, a playful glint in your eye. “It’s nice to see you looking so relaxed” you tease and he lets out a chuckle and his smile returns.

“Well, that’s because you’re here with me” he says as he winks at you. The warmth of his words makes you feel heat up your neck.

The evening unfolds effortlessly, filled with conversations, laughter and heartfelt moments. After finishing dessert Sunghoon reaches for something in his pocket. You follow his movements with a curious gaze and give him a questioning look once he offers you a neatly wrapped square gift.

“What’s this?” You chuckle softly as you take it in your hand.

Sunghoon simply smiles and nods for you to open it.

You feel slightly nervous as-well as excitement as you start to unwrapped it and then you gasp.

Inside is a bracelet, with a sunflower charm on it.

“Hoon,” you breathe, your voice full with awe. “This is beautiful” you continue as you carefully take it out of the box, admiring the intricate details. “And a sunflower” you gleam as you meet his eyes.

He looks at you with soft eyes, his love for you shining through. “I remember you told me on our first date that you used to have a bracelet like this when you were younger but that you lost it. So i found this and it’s obviously not the same thing but-“.

You interrupt him before he says more, while smiling brightly. “It’s perfect! I can’t believe you’d remember that”. You reach over and squeeze his hand gently. “Thank you so much, I love it”.

Sunghoon smiles at you before he chuckles slightly. “I might have to start calling you my sunflower now” you let out a giggle at this.

“Mm, then I’ll have to come up with a nickname for you too” you replay with a grin.

As you walk home from the restaurant hand in hand, the night cold, Sunghoon lifts your hand to his lips, pressing a kiss to it and then he looks at the bracelet on your wrist. “It really suits you” he says softly, with adoration before he pulls you in.

You smile as you wrap your arms around his neck. “Mhm, that’s because i got it from someone special” you whisper against his lips.

Sunghoon’s smile is radiant and brimming with love, before he leans in to capture your lips in a soft, heartfelt kiss.

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⭒ Sunoo ⭒

Shows his love through compliments, he wants you too feel special.

It’s late at night, and you and Sunoo is cuddled up on the couch with a cozy blanket draped around the two of you, creating a feeling of comfort. The dim lights the room is bathed in makes the scenery warm and intimate. Leaning against his chest, you let out a laugh at the comedy movie you’d been so excited to see all week.

Unbeknownst to you, Sunoo’s gaze has shifted from the screen to you. He watches you intently, captivated by the way your laughter lights up your face. Your eyes glimmer with joy and your dimples make a subtle yet irresistible appearance- and he knows it’s his new favorite sight in the world.

“You know” he starts, his voice steady.

Your laughing pauses as you turn to face him.

“Hm?”

”I don’t think you realize how beautiful you are when you laugh like this” he says, his eyes filled with tenderness that makes your heart skip a beat.

Caught off guard you look up at him while a blush creeps onto your cheeks.

“Stop…” you mumble, trying to brush it off as your face gets warmer.

Although this only makes him lean in closer to you and take a hold of your face, holding it like it’s fragile.

“I’m serious” he says as he strokes your cheek softly. “The way your face lights up when you’re happy- it’s my favorite thing about you. You have this way of making every moment I spend with you feel special, like, I never have a moment I don’t treasure with you”.

Your heart swells as the warmth lingers on your cheek and with it a strange, indescribable warmth blooms inside you. You try to come up with a reply but the feeling of his sincerity has left you speechless.

“And it’s not only when you laugh, it’s everything you do. You’re kind, funny, beautiful, smart… you’re everything I could ever want and so much more” he says with love filled eyes.

“Sunoo” you sniffle as your eyes well up with tears and your voice trembles.

Sunoo brushes a strand of hair away from your face, his touch so gentle you feel yourself shiver.

”I love you” he says, his voice firm but filled with emotions. “With all that I am. I hope you see how amazing and special you are”.

A tear runs down your cheek as he’s soft finger wipes it away. You sniffle softly before you speak, “I’m so in love with you, sunoo.” You move your lips to his hand that’s on your cheek and kisses his palm.

You let out a soft chuckle as he smiles at you his expression filled with nothing but adoration. Your gazes lingers in each others and as if drawn by an invisible force the two of you lean closer.

“You’re so beautiful” he whispers before his lips meet yours in a kiss that feels so different then all the others you’ve shared with him. It’s so full of love and it leaves you breathless while your thoughts only revolve around the person before you.

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⭒ Jungwon ⭒

Shows his love through acts of service; for example helps you in different scenarios.

Exams where coming up, and you were stressed, to say the least. On top of that you are pretty sure you’ve caught a cold.

Your textbooks and notebooks are scattered around the desk, and you struggled to stay focused on the letters you’ve been rereading for five minutes now. You sniffle and readjust your glasses for what feels like the tenth time before reaching for a tissue you have laying among the chaos.

“I’m so tired” you mumble to yourself as you wipe your nose with the tissue before throwing it away.

You’d been studying for hours, yet there was still so much left to cover before you could feel even remotely confident for the tests and all you want to do is crawl under your covers and take a nap together with your boyfriend, Jungwon.

At the though of your boyfriend you look at the time: 8:45 pm. You let out a sigh as you realize he’s late, as he’d promised to be over by 8:00.

Along with everything already weighting on you this was the tip of the iceberg. You squeeze your eyes shut to stop the tears that prick in your eyes from falling but the feeling of disappointment swell inside you. You had told Jungwon earlier that day on the phone that you’d been feeling sick and about how overwheling everything felt- studying, grocery shopping, laundry. You just wanted him to hold you in his arms.

The longing for his embrace only intensifies as you realize that you’ll not be able to go shopping or do your laundry since studying took longer then planned.

You let out a quiet sob as you take off your glasses and bury your face in your hands. But right as the tears start to fall you hear the ring of your door bell.

Startled, you quickly stand up and walk towards the door. You might be disappointed that he’s late but you can’t bring yourself to stay upset at him, not when all you want is just to be in his arms.

When you open the door, you’re met with Jungwon smiling at you but his smile falters the moment he sees your tear-streaked cheeks.

“Are you okay?” He asks as you move to the side to let him in.

“N-no” you choke out as your voice breaks. “I’m so exhausted” your shoulders slump as you look at him with teary eyes.

Jungwon sets the tote bags he’s carrying on the floor and pulls you into his arms. “Oh, Honey… it’s going to be okay” he whispers, holding you close as he gently runs his fingers through your hair. “I promise”

You let out a muffled sob against his shoulder as he continues to hold you, his embrace warm and safe.

Some minutes pass, and once you’ve calmed down, he pulls back enough so that he can cup your face in his hands. “You feeling any better?” He asks softly.

“Only because you’re here…” you mumble, prompting a soft chuckle from Jungwon as he wipes away the remaining tears from your face.

Your eyes wanders from his to the bags he had with him. “What’s in the bags?” You question, curiosity breaking through your exhaustion.

Jungwon eyes widen. “Oh no, the milk!” He blurts out before he quickly takes the bags rushing to the kitchen. You follow after him and watch as he unpacks the groceries. Your eyes follow his movements as he takes out everything you’ve written down on your grocery list and your heart skips a beat.

“Wonnie?” You let out barely audible and he stops his movement and turns to you with a sheepish expression. “W-hat?… why?” You question in disbelief, your voice trembling with emotion.

Jugnwon looks at you as his ears turns a slight pink. “You said you weren’t feeling well and that you still have so much to do- like grocery shopping- so I thought… if I could at least take care of that for you, it might take some weight of your shoulders” he says as he looks at you with his kind eyes.

Tears well up in your eyes, this time not from exhaustion and you quickly walk around the counter to wrap your arms around his waist.

“Thank you” you sniffle as you feel his arms wrap around you, “this means so much to me” and even though you can’t see it he smiles softly before he kisses the top of your head.

“It’s the least I can do” he whispers, his voice filled with warmth against your hair.

He then pulls back slightly, just enough so that you can meet his eyes. “Now, let’s get you to bed” he says. “I’ll finish putting away everything, and when I’m done, we can watch a movie together. How does that sound?”.

You nod, a smile tugging at your lips. “That sounds perfect” you sigh content, hugging him tightly once more.

As you walk to your bed you can’t help but feel gratitude through out your body, having Jungwon by your side made everything a lot better.

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⭒ Ni-ki ⭒

Shows his love by spending time with you and doing things you both like.

You hear the front door close from where you’re layed underneath a couple blankets on the couch watching some show on tv. A smile makes it’s way on your face when you realize your beloved boyfriend has finally returned home after a three day trip for a concert in Japan. As his footsteps grow louder, you sit up, and a big smile appears on your face as you lock eyes with him.

”you’re home” you smile as you open your arms for him. Riki's eyes light up at the sight, and he quickly sheds his jacket and sets down his bags before he wraps his arms around your waist, pulling you close.

“I missed you” he mumbled against your neck as he breathes in his favorite scent.

“I missed you too, I don’t like being apart from you” you answer as you gently stroke his hair the way you know he loves. After a moment you both pull away and your eyes land on the canvases peeking out from the plastic bag next to his suitcase. You instantly know what he wants to do with them and you take a hold of his face and lock eyes with him.

“You didn’t” you beam.

“I did” he chuckles. "I couldn't get that TikTok trend that we saw out of my head, so when I had some free time in Japan, I picked up some canvases for us." Riki plants a kiss on your cheek as you wrap your arms around him again, this time squeezing him tighter with a joyful squeal.

Twenty minutes later, you and Riki find yourselves seated at the small table in your apartment, surrounded by paintbrushes and tiny containers of paint. A smile spreads across your face as the timer beeps, signaling that it’s time to switch canvases again. As Riki places the canvas in your hand you let out a laugh. “W-what is that?!” You let out.

“What!- how can’t you see what it is?!” Riki exclaims as he too lets out a laugh. “It’s super obvious that it’s a frog with a bucket hat!”

At that you burst out laughing again. “But why would you paint that on the picnic blanket I made?!” You laugh.

“It’s aesthetic” Riki replies with a serious expression, and you can't help but laugh once more. Suddenly, the canvas is taken from your grasp, and you turn back your gaze to Riki to see him pouting as he holds it.

“No- I’m sorry!” You giggle while you reach for the canvas which Riki pulls closer to himself. “It’s so nice! I see it now!” You hold back your giggle as you move to his side to take the canvas.

“You don’t mean that” he pouts if even possible more. You let out a small giggle as you take his face in your hand.

“I do, I just didn’t understand the aesthetic at first” you smile softly at him as you bite back a laugh.

Riki puts down the canvas on the table before he glances up at you. “You promise?”.

“I promise, you big baby” you giggle as you lean in and plant soft kiss on his pouty lips. As you pull away you see a soft smile on his face.

“I guess you’re forgiven” he lets out before he kisses your cheek.

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[thewertsearch]

@necrowyrm asked: happy new year!!! enjoy the last little bit of homestuck before act 6! Anonymous asked: You have NO IDEA how much I was looking forward to your reaction to this flash :D @teddy-bearer-of-bad-news asked: a very late congratulations from me for making it this far! i gotta say, saving CASCADE for new year's is probably the smartest thing i've heard all week. may your experience be nothing short of righteous, comrade Anonymous asked: Cascade … Even years latter knowing it almost by heart, every once in a while I will take a little quarter of an hour to rewatch it, Say what you want about Hussie but there is a good reason Homestuck became so iconic. @adeptarcanist asked: The leadup to Cascade was honestly my favorite sequence in Homestuck, and maybe one of my favorites in any media ever? The way the narrative splits apart into all of the different scenes swirling in towards the critical moment, both advancing main plots and finding time to spend a moment of melancholy with characters who’d been left behind (The Jaspers and Nepeta scene :( )… it’s such a strong narrative device, and the tone it generates is impeccable. @calamitascalliope asked: I literally watched the flash again, and it still gives me chills every single time. Welcome to your post-Cascade life. You won't be able to think about anything the same ever again @iris-in-the-dark-world asked: "she looks so cool… but she’s so tragic… but she looks so cool…" has become a brainworm for me. i too love the handmaid's design btw, cascade time has been i think the most anticipated non-personal event of the entire year for me. i'm so excited @publicuniversalworstie asked: I want you to know that I also opened Cascade and started watching with you right after I saw your "oh my god it has chapters" ask, and I finished just as you posted "I will never be the same" !! And I bet lots of other people did too <3 so it's like we all watched it together!!!! Happy New Year and thank you for liveblogging!!!! It's been a pleasure！(and will continue to be) @krixwell asked: I would like you to know that your "Right, we're good to go!" and "oh my god it has chapters" posts were posted right as I was outside watching midnight fireworks ring in 2025 for the Central European timezone. Happy new year! @captorations asked:

hey remember when rose just up and fucking said that. anyway congrats on reaching cascade! it absolutely wrecked me back in the day, i think i stared at those flaming curtains for a solid ten minutes as my brain permanently reconfigured. the first few notes of the track alone still give shivers. getting your reaction to cascade was a wonderful birthday present. (speaking of getting older: aradia 🤝 dulcinea also got that "distressingly short lifespan only to die early anyway" story thread going on. the parallels are paralleling.) anyway happy new year and congrats you are… slightly less than halfway done with homestuck. have fun!

Hey, guys. Cascade was so fucking good.

Like, there's really no competition; this is the best Flash page in the comic thus far. Peak music, peak animation, and absolutely a peak narrative. It tied up mountains of plot threads, providing complete answer to questions we're been asking for literally thousands of pages. It completed over a dozen arcs, both big and small. It made me gasp three times in fourteen minutes. It let Jade become a furry.

11/10, and I'm glad people had as much fun here as I did on New Year's Eve. Happy 2025, and happy Act 6!

@morganwick asked: Sally, predicting Cascade: "I have approximate knowledge of many things." @morganwick asked: "You literally have the whole world in the palm of your hands." -Sally to Jadesprite, December 16, 2024 (You might also want to reread post/770701212350857216 in light of recent developments.)

Hah!

I mean, based on her powerset, it made sense that Jadesprite would do something like this eventually, but it's pretty funny that she did it more or less immediately.

And in the end, CD really was a tricky little bastard. We'll definitely need to keep a closer eye on him, next time around.

Anonymous asked: Take a moment to consider that if anyone were to use the Homestuck website as it stands now instead of the Collection program, Cascade would have been presented in the YouTube player in Standard Definition, artifacted to hell, with a clear boundary showing the dimensions of the video from the very start. Preservation is so important.

Jeez, you're not kidding. The 1080p is fine, I guess, but it certainly doesn't hit like the Flash version does, especially with its lack of moving panels.

I know something had to change when Flash kicked the bucket, but surely there was a better way to preserve the video's soul.

Anonymous asked: to give you some of an idea of what homestuck fandom looked like during this time period, im cribbing from a very popular homestuck post: “first, this upd8 was something that we had been waiting for for WEEKS. A literally unprecedented wait period at the time. We were used to suckling at the teat of daily updates, a constant stream of conversation and plot twists and buildup, and as EOA5, we were finally going to figure out what all these countdowns and plot threads and disconnected elements were building up for. And when the progress bar reached 100%, and when the page FINALLY loaded on 10/25/11, it was chaos. This was 2011, a primetime peak point and growth period of Homestuck fan density.” (…) “MSPA crashed, as it had started to during the last few big [S] updates. Hussie had already bought new servers in advance, but even when allegedly thousands of dollars were spent it couldn't handle the accidental DDOS attack of Homestuck fans. People were up all night waiting for this upd8, the curiosity was killing me. I know at some point he was receiving at least 1 million unique visitors per day to his site [correction: according to Hussie’s tumblr, upwards of 2 million during this time], and even though Hussie had foreseen such traffic and thusly hosted [S] Cascade on Newgrounds, a dedicated video streaming site, Newgrounds was similarly unprepared for the sheer amount of people frantically mashing the play and refresh buttons, and also crashed. Immediately. MSPA and Newgrounds crashed definitively for at least two nights in a row” (…) “Andrew Hussie has gone on record to say this was one of the few times he thought Homestuck wasn’t worth it, because the sheer unbelievable cost (was it $10,000?) [correction: according to Hussie’s tumblr, it looked like it was going to cost $100,000 to keep [S] Cascade up for several days] of servers and the chaos of no one able to see the upd8 and crashing nearly every site after. He was tweeting during the whole debacle, stating he was reluctant to put it up on Youtube because of all the moving elements of the flash, and style, and how youtube degraded the quality of the file size, and how he tried to scratch out buffer time and pauses by putting periods of silence between each section of the 14 minute upd8, the longest upd8 yet” “So after Newgrounds patooted, he didn’t put it on youtube and instead put up the entire flash file on Megaupload, where it could be downloaded in it’s entirety to be watched. UNFORTUNATELY, Megaupload also crashed very quickly, which Hussie felt much headache over. But before that happened I managed to get the file, since I happened to be up very early that night! Next it was on dropbox, which didn’t crash but had “link unavailable” on and off. ”Spoilers were flying everywhere, people didn’t understand everything that had happened, and by the time the timeline of events in and out of [S] Cascade was all straightened out, people became even MORE hype. Like this whole thing lasted at least four days, and on top of that, the upd8 was good. Fandom exploded.” it is impossible to quantify the experience. The fact hussie was going to have to fork over A HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS to host it is crazy. I am never going to be over it.

Cascade's complete obliteration of the Flash-hosting internet says a lot about huge Homestuck truly was - but I think an even bigger indicator of the comic's success is the fact that Hussie dropped literally thousands of dollars on server upgrades to host the thing. That's not an investment you make unless you're expecting some serious returns.

[archangeldyke-all]

Transfem Reader asking Sevika if she should get bottom surgery and Sev being like “noo baby I like your princess wand:((“ lmaopsvfthdv

i'm crying

disclaimer! i'm cis so if there's any mistakes plz let me know and i'll fix them asap!

men and minors dni

you frown as you look at yourself in the mirror.

dysphoria isn't a new feeling for you, but it's intensity has lessened as you've grown into yourself. with each week that passes and each shot sevika lovingly injects on your thigh, you feel more and more like yourself. plus, sevika makes you feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.

but there are still times when your dysphoria rears its ugly head and makes you feel shitty.

"baby?" sevika asks.

"in the bathroom!" you call.

sevika raises an eyebrow when she finds you naked. you snort.

"don't give me that look, i'm not feeling sexy."

sevika pouts and wraps her arms around your waist, tucking her chin over your shoulder to look at you in the mirror. "well, you're lookin' delicious." you smile, and sevika presses a kiss to your cheek. "tell me what's bugging you."

you sigh. "i dunno. do you think i should get bottom surgery?" you ask.

sevika freezes behind you, a look of mild shock on her face. you chuckle. she gulps and shakes her head. "wh-- baby, where is this coming from?"

you shrug. "dunno. just feeling... bleh, about all this." you say, waving in the vague direction of your genitals.

sevika pouts and kisses your head. "well, y'know, it's what i always say. any surgeries or procedures or changes you wanna make, i'm gonna support you. you need to do what makes you happy."

"but what do you think?"

sevika considers you in the mirror, a little pout on her lips as she looks between your legs. she shrugs sadly. "i'd miss your princess wand if you did."

you burst into laughter, the heaviness that you've been carrying with you since you woke up this morning evaporating at your wife's words. "my what!?" you squawk.

sevika giggles and shrugs. "your princess wand."

"did you just make that up!?" you ask. sevika giggles again.

"...maybe. i know sometimes the medical words make your dysphoria worse. do you like it?" she asks with a mischievous smile.

you burst into laughter and turn around in her arms, hugging her shoulders and kissing her nose. "you're fucking ridiculous."

"i made you laugh, though." she points out. you grin.

"yeah, you did."

sevika darts forward to peck your lips, then she squeezes you. "i'll support whatever you decide to do, love. just don't go thinkin' you need to change for me. you're the most beautiful woman i've ever met, 'n i love you just the way you are. princess wand and all."

and, despite the fact that her words make you snort with laughter, your heart still skips a beat at how sweet she is.

taglist!

@fyeahnix @lavendersgirl @half-of-a-gay @thesevi0lentdelights @sexysapphicshopowner

@kissyslut @chuucanchuucan @badbye666 @femme-historian @lia-winther

@lavenderbabu @emiliabby @sevikasbeloved @hellorai @my-taintedheart

@glass-apothecary @macaroni676 @artinvain @k3n-dyll @sevsdollette

@ellieslob @xayn-xd @keikuahh @maneskinwh0re @raphaellearp

@iamastar @sevikitty @mascdom @nhaaauyen @annesunshiner

@mirconreadzztuff22 @veoomvroom @lushh-s3vik4s @katyawooga @lesbodietcoke

@strawberrykidneystone @sevikasfan @fict1onallyobsessed @dvrkhcld @sweetybuzz25

@sluttysierraaa @snake-in-a-flower-crown @ruiwonderz @littlemisszaunite @biblicalcrybaby

@blackgaladriel @nightlyconfusion @dancingqu33n17 @losernb

[genericpuff]

Hello! I'm someone with autism (and I'm suspecting ADHD too) who's planning multiple projects. Do you have any advice when it comes to overthinking a lot about decisions on a project? Be it the first step, planning, questioning if you're moving too fast, etc?

ouuuu I think the biggest thing I struggle with personally is just like... the overbearing weight of expectation that isn't necessarily even there. Like, expectation to do everything right all the time, to never make mistakes, to never fall through on promises, to never break any 'rules' (real or imaginary) and most of all, for everything I do to matter in some big, recognizable, memorable way - but the steps to that goal aren't defined, I just know what the goal looks like, with no clear path as to how to get there, and so it often results in me aiming at my own "best guess" and then beating myself up for not hitting the target LOL which is completely unfair to myself and my own work!

What I try to regularly remind myself of is that I am one person, who is only capable of what one person should reasonably be able to accomplish on their own, no matter how much my auDHD tries to convince me otherwise that I "should" be able to handle more than what's reasonable. And in that same sense, there isn't any more pressure on me to put out something perfect than there would be on any other person. I am not Atlas carrying the fate of the greatest work known to mankind on my shoulders - I'm a chronically online dweeb making stuff that's interesting to themselves and sharing it in the hopes that even just one other person will like it too. That isn't a diss on myself, that's me embracing what I am so that I can keep doing it better and more confidently each time.

Though I don't know if this exactly applies to you, I'm gonna say it just in case: I know when it comes to balancing multiple projects, it can be hard not to go "oh well I SHOULD be working on xyz!" but at the end of the day, you're not a failure for preferring to work on something else or needing space from projects that used to thrill you and have now become monotonous. In fact, it turns out that's how it is for most neurotypical people too! I know they make a lot of shit look easy, but even they have shit they loathe doing - they just don't have to deal with the unique hurdles of being neurodivergent.

Always remember to set boundaries with yourself and your work. Remember, just because you're really excited to work on something, doesn't mean you have to work on it all the time. I've learned to appreciate those moments when I'm stuck doing my day job and I'm excited to get home and work on my passion project, because it means I can actually look forward to it and it'll feel all the more rewarding when I finally get to do it! Pushing yourself too hard to fulfill that excitement all at once right off the bat often just means you're gonna spend it all way too quick, and that won't feel good because then you'll be left wondering where all the love went.

Set little goals for yourself. Stuff that's manageable and achievable within a reasonable amount of time. I know we tend to dive into thinking huge right off the bat, because that's what's exciting to us, but when it comes time to actually do the work, those smaller goals can keep us moving forward far better than the big, far off, ambiguous goal hiding somewhere off in the horizon. While it's good to plan ahead, not setting smaller milestones for yourself can burn you out faster because it's really hard to work towards an "end goal" that might be too far away for us to even conceptualize. The small goals allow us to reward ourselves along the way, and they do ultimately still build up to the bigger picture in the end, even if it feels like we're "not doing much". It can be anything like "get to this chapter that I can finish in the next few weeks" or "fully write out this scene that's been living in my head rent-free".

As for the overthinking... yeah, I wish I had some magic solution to that, but it's really just about learning what you enjoy doing vs. what you don't, so that you can have confidence in knowing when your creative decisions suit the project you're working on. This is something that gets better with practice and experience, but I feel like it's better tackled by reminding yourself that any project, no matter the outcome of how popular it gets or whether or not it "takes off", is an opportunity to learn and grow. Treat every project as a learning experience and you'll hopefully find the process itself more enjoyable, which will subsequently buff up your confidence. It's all a process of honing in on what works for you, what you excel at, and what you enjoy doing; while learning what doesn't work for you, what you could improve at, and what you don't enjoy doing.

Finding a writing buddy or someone who's willing to read your work and give you feedback is super helpful for this, too, because sometimes it takes another perspective to help us navigate the fog of indecision and find a solution.

And again, remember - you are one person, and you are under no obligation for any of your projects to be some perfect, infallible holy grail. You will write stuff that you will inevitably look back on with disgust and cringe. You will create projects that you will eventually outgrow or move on from. That does not invalidate the time and effort you put into those projects - it's proof of experience and growth. Embrace the growing pains, find peace in the process in whatever way you can.

It's not a question of right or wrong - it's asking yourself what feels true to you and your voice, and finding out along the way.

[slickdickwitchbitchh]

Obx: After Dark

Chapter 1: Pilot

Summary: The roommates moved in full of hope and camaraderie, eager for a fun summer together, but things quickly soured when Rafe started stirring trouble. Tensions reached a breaking point, culminating in a heated fight between JJ and Rafe, leaving the group on edge and questioning the dynamic in the house.

A/N: the fight between JJ & Rafe is based on this fight from Vanderpump Rules, my favorite reality show i suggest watching because it’s hilarious.(i’m sorry the video is long i suggest starting at 3:05 that’s when the fight starts)

Masterlist

Pilot

Voiceover/Narrator: "The Outer Banks, a chain of islands off the coast of North Carolina, where the sun kisses the ocean, and paradise is just a few steps away... [Clip of John B.]: 'Paradise on Earth.' It's the perfect blend of wild beauty and untamed youth. Surfers, sun, and the sound of crashing waves—the OBX is a dream come true... for some. But for others, it's a playground for drama, secrets, and, well... revenge."

Cut to an aerial shot of a sprawling mansion nestled on a cliff, waves crashing beneath. The camera zooms in to the front door where the first cast member enters.

Voiceover/Narrator: "Tonight, we're taking a group of friends, exes, and enemies, and locking them together in a secluded mansion for one very special week. Why? To celebrate Y/N's 21st birthday, of course."

Cut to Y/N walking up to the grand mansion door, looking around in awe. She steps inside, and the camera follows her into the foyer.

Y/N’s Confessional Y/N is sitting in a chair with a slight smirk. "Hey, I’m Y/N. Just turned 21, finally legal. I just moved here six months ago, so I don’t subscribe to the pogues versus kooks rivalry. I’m my own person and I’m pretty much friends with everyone, as long as they don’t come for me."

Producer's voice from behind the camera: "How do you handle conflict?"

Y/N’s face hardens slightly as she thinks about it. "I mean, I have a mouth on me, I don’t take shit from no one. I’m not one to initiate a fight. I think it’s ugly and trashy, but if you’re gonna step to me, I’m gonna protect myself. What am I supposed to do? Take it? Are you kidding me?"

Producer's voice from behind the camera: "Are you a partier?"

Y/N grins and shrugs casually. "I definitely come home at six in the morning a lot."

Y/N walks into the living room, surveying the space with a smile, before hearing someone enter behind her. She turns around.

Cut to Sarah Cameron entering, her heels clicking on the marble floors. She pauses, looking around, and then the camera switches to Sarah’s confessional.

Sarah Cameron’s Confessional "I’m Sarah. I’m 22. It’s been a minute since I've seen some of these people, especially Rafe." A brief pause as her expression shifts slightly. "But what’s crazy is, my dad, Ward, he left us half of his fortune. So, I guess this trip’s gonna be... interesting. I’ve been dating John B. for about four months now, and I’m really looking forward to this week. Just... I hope nothing crazy happens. I’m all about peace and good vibes, but when it comes to Rafe and Topper... we’ll see."

Cut to Sarah entering the mansion. Y/N, excited, barrels down the stairs and jumps on Sarah, spinning her around.

Sarah: "Happy birthday, baby!" gives her a hug

They embrace for a moment before Sarah pulls back, her eyes narrowing slightly.

Sarah: "Okay, but Topper and Rafe are staying here too? That’s what he told me."

Y/N’s face falls into a nervous expression.

Y/N: "Fuck…" pauses "Well, that’s gonna be... interesting."

Sarah and Y/N lock eyes for a moment, then both spot a bottle of tequila on the counter. Without another word, they grab the bottle and each take a shot.

Cut to the front door, where John B. is struggling to carry two suitcases out of the car. The camera switches to his confessional.

John B.’s Confessional "I’m John B., 23, and I’ve been dating Sarah for the past four months. My best friends are the pogues—JJ, Pope, Kiara, Cleo, Y/N, and Sarah. As for the kooks... I don’t necessarily like them, but it’s not on sight if I see them."

Cut to John B. entering the house, dragging the bags in. He sees Sarah and Y/N laughing by the counter.

John B.: "Happy birthday, Y/N!" gives her a big hug

Y/N: "Thanks, JB! Where’s JJ?"

The camera cuts to JJ riding down the sun-kissed streets of OBX on his motorcycle. The sound of the engine rumbles as he speeds down the road.

JJ’s Confessional "I’m JJ, 23. Yeah, I don’t like kooks. And it’s on sight if I see them. I’ve got my squad—Y/N, Sarah, John B., Pope, Kiara, Cleo, and we all stick together." pauses "I’ve got a little thing for Y/N, but... it’s complicated."

JJ pulls up to the mansion on his bike, kicking the stand down. He walks inside, throwing open the front door with a grin.

JJ: "Papas home!"

The camera cuts to Sarah, John B., and Y/N rushing to greet him at the door. Y/N gives JJ a hug that lingers longer than necessary, causing Sarah to shoot John B. a subtle, knowing look. He gives Sarah a matching look, and together, they both simultaneously walk away, leaving JJ and Y/N still hugging.

Pilot (Continued)

JJ and Y/N finally pull apart, both grinning. JJ's eyes twinkle as he reaches into his bag.

JJ: "I've got your birthday gifts."

Y/N: "Gifts? Plural?"

JJ: "You know it."

He opens his tattered duffle bag, rummaging through it before pulling out a crumpled brown paper bag. He hands it to Y/N with a grin.

Y/N: She takes the bag, holding it up to her nose and sniffing it, jerking back immediately. "Woah."

JJ: "I know, right? Only the 'stickiest of ickies' for my girl’s 21st."

Y/N laughs, the excitement in her voice unmistakable.

Y/N: Loudly and dramatically, she yells "STICKYYYYY!" like Tyler, The Creator and Sexy Red's song.

She gives JJ another long hug, grinning from ear to ear.

Y/N: "We’ll save it for tonight."

JJ: "Bet. And I’ll give you your other gift tonight."

Y/N: Teasing with a smirk, she raises her eyebrows. "Oooo, my other gift at night? Sounds sexy."

They both burst out laughing, the playful tension between them undeniable.

Cut to the upstairs area where everyone is gathered around, discussing sleeping arrangements. Y/N and Sarah stand in a room with four queen-sized beds. Y/N quickly claims one of the beds while Sarah glances around, counting beds.

Sarah: "Ugh, I’m guessing Kiara is coming, seeing as there are four beds."

Y/N: Scolding, she replies "Sarah, please. Just be nice and cordial for me, okay? It’s my birthday trip."

Sarah: Rolls her eyes. "Fine, but if she comes for me, all bets are off."

Y/N sighs, shaking her head.

Y/N: "This is gonna be a long week."

The camera switches to JJ and John B., who are surveying the two rooms connected by a bathroom. One has a bunk bed and a single bed, and the other has two queen beds. They exchange looks.

John B.: "We should probably take this room so we can room with Pope."

JJ: "Right, but who are those other two beds in the other room for?"

John B. goes quiet for a moment, then sighs before answering.

John B.: "Sarah told me that Topper told her that him and Rafe are coming."

JJ’s eyes widen, and he immediately jumps off the bottom bunk with a start.

JJ: "What the—who the fuck invited them!?"

John B. immediately grabs JJ’s shoulder, manhandling him back onto the bed with a calm grip.

John B.: "Easy, man. We can’t get crazy."

JJ goes quiet, deep in thought. John B. watches him, concerned.

John B.: "You good?"

JJ looks up, his expression shifting from frustration to something more controlled.

JJ: "Yeah, I’ll be cool... as long as they’re cool."

John B.: "Okay, good. This is supposed to be a fun experience. Don’t let them ruin it."

John B. lies back on his single bed, closing his eyes in an attempt to relax. JJ stares at him for a moment, a devilish look on his face.

JJ: Leaning forward, he starts rummaging through his duffle bag. "And plus, I brought my backup."

John B. opens one eye, just in time to see JJ pull something from his bag. JJ holds it up with a triumphant grin.

JJ: "Aha!"

John B. immediately opens both eyes, his face dropping as he realizes what JJ’s holding. It’s a gun—his eyes widen in shock.

The camera focuses on John B.’s worried expression as he stares at the gun.

John B. (looking directly at the camera): Panicked, his voice shaky. "Uh, JJ, man, what the hell are you doing?"

The screen immediately cuts to static, followed by an error sound effect. The camera cuts to JJ, now walking into the confessional room, a cocky grin plastered on his face.

JJ (laughing): "Sorry, y’all, I didn’t read the contract before I signed it, and apparently, there are no weapons allowed [uses air quotes]—even BB guns."

Even the producers chuckle behind the camera.

JJ: "I’m on strike one already, and we’ve only been here for 40 minutes... so... yeah, it’s gonna be a long week."

The screen fades to black, teasing what’s to come next.

Scene: Topper and Rafe’s Arrival

The sound of an engine rumbles as Rafe’s F-150 cruises down the sunny streets of the Outer Banks. The truck gleams under the sun, a reflection of Rafe’s personality—flashy, over-the-top, and unapologetic. Topper rides shotgun, sunglasses on, leaning back casually. The coastal scenery whizzes past as the two make small talk.

Topper: "Man, I can’t believe we’re doing this. A whole week in that house with them."

Rafe: Smirking, eyes on the road. "Yeah, well, free booze and drama? I’m in. Plus, I’ve got a few... loose ends to tie up."

Topper: Chuckling. "Loose ends? More like bad decisions."

Rafe: Laughing darkly. "Touché. But you know me—I make things interesting."

Topper: Glancing at Rafe. "You do realize Sarah’s gonna be there, right? And John B?"

Rafe: His smirk widens into something more sinister. "Please. Like I’m scared of them. Besides, I’ve got better things to focus on."

The truck pulls up to the secluded mansion, the ocean shimmering in the background. Both men step out, their confident strides and designer clothes immediately setting them apart from the laid-back vibes of the Outer Banks. They exchange a look, smirking as they grab their bags and head toward the house. The front door swings open, and the energy shifts as they enter, their presence palpable.

Rafe’s Confessional

Rafe leans back in the confessional chair, an unlit cigarette dangling between his fingers. He smirks at the camera, exuding cocky arrogance.

Rafe: "Name’s Rafe Cameron. Twenty-four, born and bred Kook royalty. If you don’t know what a Kook is, let me educate you. We’re the elite, the ones who run this place. The Pogues? They’re the bottom-feeders. The ones who clean our boats and beg for scraps. It’s not a rivalry. It’s reality."

He pauses, his smirk turning colder.

Rafe: "My dad, Ward Cameron, recently passed. Rest in peace, Dad." He presses a hand to his chest mockingly, then lets it fall. "Left me a fortune, so, yeah, life’s looking pretty good for me. Oh, and as for this week? Let’s just say I hooked up with Y/N last week, but I’m keeping that little detail under wraps for now. Timing is everything."

He leans forward, staring into the camera with a look that’s both charming and unsettling.

Rafe: "This week’s gonna be fun—for me."

Topper’s Confessional

Topper sits in the confessional chair, his posture relaxed but his tone serious.

Topper: "Topper Thornton. Twenty-three. Born and raised in Figure Eight. Some people think I’m just a trust-fund kid who parties too much, but there’s more to me than that."

He adjusts his sunglasses, sighing.

Topper: "So, yeah, Sarah and I broke up six months ago. It was mutual, but honestly? I think it’s the break we both needed. That said..." He pauses, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I’m here to win her back. I know she’s with John B, but let’s be real—what they have isn’t serious. It’s a phase. She’ll come around. She always does."

He leans back, smirking faintly.

Topper: "This week’s about showing Sarah who she really belongs with. Me."

Back in the house, Rafe and Topper walk into the main living area, their presence impossible to ignore. Y/N and JJ are still joking by the staircase, while Sarah and John B stand off to the side, their conversation interrupted by the new arrivals. Everyone goes quiet as the tension in the room skyrockets.

Rafe: Grinning as he surveys the group. "Well, well, well. Looks like the gang’s all here."

The camera pans to Sarah, her jaw tightening as she glances at John B. Y/N’s eyes dart between Rafe and JJ, sensing the brewing storm. JJ’s posture stiffens, his eyes narrowing at Rafe, while Topper’s gaze zeroes in on Sarah, his confident smirk unshaken.

Topper: Casually, with a slight edge. "Hey, Sarah. Long time no see."

Sarah: Her voice tight, controlled. "Not long enough."

The tension is thick, the air charged with unspoken words and unresolved history. The camera lingers on the group, capturing the shifting dynamics and subtle glares before cutting to black.

Y/N’s Secret Gets Hinted At

Upstairs, Sarah closes the door to their shared bedroom and leans against it dramatically.

Sarah: "Okay, bestie, what’s up? Why are you dodging Rafe like he’s a pop quiz?"

Y/N: "What? I’m not dodging anyone."

She starts unpacking her bag, purposefully looking down to avoid Sarah’s gaze. Sarah raises an eyebrow, crossing her arms.

Sarah: "Girl. You’re giving off major 'I did something dumb' energy. Spill."

Y/N groans, dropping onto the bed.

Y/N: "It’s not even a thing, okay? It happened once, and it was a mistake."

Sarah gasps, eyes wide.

Sarah: "Wait... are you telling me you hooked up with my brother?"

Y/N quickly shushes her, frantically waving her hands.

Y/N: "Keep your voice down! Do you want them to hear?"

Sarah flops onto the bed beside her, looking both shocked and intrigued.

Sarah: "First of all, ew. Second of all, why didn’t you tell me?! Third—wait, no—why Rafe?!"

Y/N: "I don’t know, okay? It was tequila, bad decisions, and... I don’t know. He was just... there."

Sarah sits up, giving her a pointed look.

Sarah: "That man is like a walking red flag, Y/N. Does JJ know?"

Y/N: "No, and he’s not going to. It’s not like it meant anything."

Sarah squints at her like she doesn’t quite believe her but eventually sighs.

Sarah: "Alright, fine. Your secret’s safe with me. But if this blows up, don’t say I didn’t warn you."

Y/N buries her face in her hands.

Y/N: "It’s my birthday. Can’t the universe give me a break?"

Kiara’s Arrival

Their conversation is cut short by the sound of a car door slamming. The camera cuts to Kiara stepping out of her car, her vibe effortlessly cool in an oversized hoodie, ripped jeans, and sneakers. She waves at the camera with a cheeky grin.

Kiara (Confessional): "Sup, I’m Kiara. I’m 22, full-time Pogue, part-time shit-stirrer. I’m here to celebrate Y/N, keep it chill, and maybe bring some chaos. 'Cause, let’s be real, what’s a trip without a little drama?"

Back at the house, Kiara pushes open the door and shouts:

Kiara: "Where’s the birthday girl?!"

Y/N and Sarah head downstairs. Y/N grins, running over to hug Kiara.

Y/N: "Kiara! Finally, someone I actually like."

Kiara: "Happy birthday, babe! Ready to make this week unforgettable?"

Kiara’s gaze shifts to Sarah, her smile turning into a tight-lipped smirk.

Kiara: "Sarah."

Sarah: "Kiara."

The air thickens as the two exchange icy nods. Y/N sighs, stepping between them.

Y/N: "Okay, can we not? It’s my birthday. Please just act like adults for one week?"

Kiara shrugs, throwing an arm over Y/N’s shoulder.

Kiara: "Fine by me. As long as she doesn’t start anything, we’re good."

Sarah: "Trust me, I was about to say the same thing."

Y/N groans, muttering under her breath:

Y/N: "Y’all are exhausting."

The camera lingers on the tension as Kiara grabs her bag and heads upstairs to claim her bed. She passes by Rafe and Topper in the kitchen, pointedly ignoring Rafe’s cocky smirk. The scene ends with JJ watching everything from the corner, his fists clenched as the tension in the house continues to rise.

Pope and Cleo’s Arrival

The camera cuts to Pope and Cleo arriving in a sleek black SUV. Pope gets out first, adjusting his backpack with a confident but relaxed smile. Cleo follows, hopping out and glancing around curiously.

Pope (Confessional): "Hey, I’m Pope. I’m 21, and I’m here to keep the peace... or at least try to. I’m in college at USC on a full scholarship, which is where I met Cleo. She’s my ride-or-die. Bringing her along is kinda like introducing my family to my friends, so... we’ll see how that goes."

The camera shifts to Cleo, tossing her long braids over her shoulder and grinning mischievously.

Cleo (Confessional): "Hi, I’m Cleo. I’m 22, and this is my first time meeting Pope’s OBX crew. I’ve heard some wild stories, so I’m excited—and a little nervous—to see what the hype’s about. Oh, and yeah, I go to USC too. Go Trojans or whatever."

Inside the house, the group hears the door open, and Pope’s voice echoes:

Pope: "What’s up, OBX?!"

Y/N rushes to greet them, hugging Pope tightly before turning to Cleo.

Y/N: "Cleo! Finally, someone I’ve been dying to meet."

Cleo smiles, pulling Y/N into a warm hug.

Cleo: "Happy birthday, girl! Pope’s been hyping you up nonstop."

Pope grins, slinging an arm around Cleo.

Pope: "I only tell the truth."

JJ (from the kitchen): "Yo, Pope! About time. We were starting to think you bailed."

Pope: "Wouldn’t miss this for the world, man."

The Birthday Shot

The group gathers downstairs at the dining room island, where JJ has lined up tequila shots. Y/N stands in the middle, glowing as everyone crowds around her. JJ grabs his shot glass and clears his throat.

JJ: "Alright, alright, everyone shut up for a sec. This is for Y/N. The realest one I know, the only person who can put up with all of us, and... the birthday queen. Cheers to 21!"

The group cheers, lifting their glasses, but before anyone can drink, Rafe cuts in.

Rafe: "Wait, hold up. I gotta say something too."

Everyone groans, but Rafe smirks, holding his shot glass like he owns the place.

Rafe: "To Y/N. The baddest in the room. The only person who’s ever been able to handle me, and trust me, that’s no small feat. You deserve everything good in life, even if you make... interesting choices sometimes."

His gaze lingers on Y/N, a smirk playing on his lips. The group exchanges awkward glances, sensing the weight of his words. Before anyone can react, Kiara steps in.

Kiara: "To Y/N. The real MVP. The only reason I’m putting up with all these people. Here’s to a week of unforgettable memories, good energy, and no drama."

The group laughs and cheers louder this time, finally taking their shots. The camera pans across everyone’s faces, capturing the tension that still lingers despite the toast.

Y/N’s Confessional

Y/N (Confessional): "Yeah, so that toast? A little cringe. Rafe just loves to stir the pot, and I already know he’s gonna push someone’s buttons. I need to talk to him and make sure he’s on his best behavior because I swear if he starts something, it’s not gonna end well—for anyone."

The camera cuts back to the group as they finish their shots. Cleo nudges Pope, whispering something that makes him laugh. JJ eyes Rafe from across the room, his jaw clenched. Meanwhile, Sarah is scrolling on her phone, clearly trying to ignore Kiara’s presence. The tension is palpable, and the week is just getting started.

The next scene opens with the roommates lounging around the kitchen, debating what to barbeque for dinner. The countertops are scattered with an assortment of snacks, condiments, and grocery bags.

Pope leans on the island, surveying the options. "Alright, we’ve got burgers, chicken, hot dogs, and veggie burgers. What’s the move?"

"Veggie burgers, obviously," Kiara interjects with a raised eyebrow.

"I say wings," Sarah suggests, holding up a pack of chicken. "I’ll whip up a marinade."

"I got the grill," JJ announces, puffing out his chest. "It’s basically my calling."

"Yeah, right," Kiara snorts. "You’re banned after last summer. Remember? You almost burned my dad’s dock down."

"It was windy!" JJ shoots back, hands up in defense.

Rafe, leaning against the counter, smirks. "I’ll handle the bonfire. At least I know what I’m doing."

"Yeah, ‘cause playing with fire is your whole personality," JJ mutters, his voice low but cutting.

Before Rafe can respond, the kitchen door swings open, and the producer steps in, casually dressed but commanding attention with a loud clap. "Alright, everyone, can I get you to meet me in the living room? We’ve got a quick meeting."

The roommates exchange puzzled looks but shuffle into the living room, taking their spots on the oversized sectional. JJ quickly slides into the seat next to Y/N, throwing his arm casually over the back of the couch. Rafe, arriving a second too late, lingers behind them, his jaw tightening as he glares at JJ. The camera lingers on Rafe’s expression, emphasizing the tension.

The producer stands before them, clipboard in hand, his tone both cheerful and authoritative. "Okay, so here’s the deal. This week is all about bonding—getting to know each other in real life, without distractions."

"Distractions?" Y/N tilts her head, already suspicious.

The producer smirks. "Yup. That means we’ll be taking your phones for the week."

A chorus of groans ripples through the group.

"You can’t be serious," Sarah complains. "What am I supposed to do without my socials?"

"It’s for the experience," the producer explains. "No texts, no calls, no social media. Just you, your roommates, and the art of conversation."

JJ slouches dramatically, crossing his arms. "This feels illegal."

"You’ll live," Pope quips, shooting JJ a teasing grin. "Just pretend it’s the '90s."

Kiara rolls her eyes. "Or the 1890s. Back when people had actual survival skills."

"Yeah, great sales pitch," Rafe deadpans, crossing his arms behind Y/N and JJ.

The producer chuckles. "Trust me, it’ll be worth it. You’ll get your phones back at the end of the week. For now, just focus on each other. Deal?"

Y/N sighs theatrically. "Fine, but if I miss an important text, it’s on you."

"Noted," the producer says with a smile. "Alright, everyone, hand them over."

One by one, the roommates reluctantly deposit their phones into a box held by the producer. The mood is a mix of resignation and apprehension.

As the producer exits, the camera lingers on the group’s awkward silence. JJ taps Y/N’s shoulder playfully, breaking the tension. "Alright, so... who’s ready to bond without Twitter?"

Rafe’s sharp gaze on the two of them doesn’t go unnoticed as the screen cuts to black.

As the group gathers around the grill, a warm glow from the setting sun reflects off the ocean, casting a serene atmosphere over the beach. The bonfire is set up in the distance, ready for the night ahead. The sound of sizzling meat on the grill fills the air as everyone chips in to help with the cooking.

JJ is the first to take charge, tossing some burgers on the grill with exaggerated flair. "Whoever says you can’t cook a decent meal on a beach is seriously underestimating the power of my grilling skills," he declares with a grin.

Sarah, handing over a platter of veggies, raises an eyebrow. "You sure about that, JJ? You nearly set the kitchen on fire last week."

Y/N chuckles, tossing a bottle of ketchup at him. "If I end up with a burnt burger, I’m blaming you."

JJ catches it effortlessly and winks. "Don’t worry, I’ve got it covered. You’re gonna love it."

Meanwhile, Cleo is in charge of setting up the drinks by the bonfire. "Who’s in for a drink? I’ve got the good stuff!" she calls out, her voice full of mischief. "But remember, it’s a limited supply."

Kiara, having a blast as she passes a bowl of chips to Pope, leans over. "Do you think the producer’s gonna try and turn us into a drama show with all this phone confiscation nonsense?"

Pope shakes his head, laughing. "If they do, they’re in for a surprise. None of us are easy to manipulate."

Rafe, though quieter, catches Pope’s comment with a smirk, the glint in his eyes giving away his amusement. He cracks a beer open, eyeing the group as if evaluating the situation. "I think this whole thing’s gonna get real interesting," he mutters, almost to himself.

nside the small, dimly lit confessional room, John B sits in front of the camera, a relaxed grin spreading across his face as he leans back slightly in the chair. The soft hum of the room’s air conditioning is the only sound for a moment, before he starts speaking to the camera, his voice light but sincere.

"Alright, so... it’s been a bit of a weird start, not gonna lie," he begins, running a hand through his hair. "Phones? Gone. But honestly? It's kinda been a blessing in disguise. Everyone’s tipsy, everyone’s laughing, and the vibes are... good, you know? Like, there’s definitely some tension, but right now? Everyone’s chilling, having a good time. It’s like we’ve already forgotten why we were even bothered in the first place."

He pauses for a second, smiling to himself. "I just hope this keeps up, honestly. I mean, we’re all stuck here for a week together, and if we can keep this... positive energy going, maybe this trip won’t be so bad after all. But, who knows? In reality TV, things can change on a dime." He shrugs, giving the camera a playful smirk. "Fingers crossed it stays this way."

John B leans forward, his grin widening. "Anyway, I’m here for the good times, and right now, we’re definitely having those. Let’s just hope that lasts." He winks at the camera, and the screen cuts back to the group enjoying themselves around the bonfire, the sound of laughter carrying over the breeze.

Back by the grill, the laughter continues as Sarah expertly flips a couple of burgers, teasing JJ. "See, I told you I could do this better than you."

"Okay, okay, but only because I’m distracted by someone," JJ responds, glancing at Y/N with a playful wink.

Y/N rolls their eyes, not able to hide their smile. "Sure, blame it on me. You’ll be the one running for seconds once they’re done."

The group continues to laugh and joke around as they serve up the food, the mood lightening with every passing minute. As they gather around the bonfire, drinks in hand, the initial tension begins to dissolve. They all settle into the warmth of the fire and the flickering light, realizing that this trip might not be so bad after all.

John B glances around at the group, nodding to himself. "Yeah, this could be the start of something... interesting."

And as the camera pulls back, the sounds of laughter and lighthearted banter echo across the beach, the night just beginning.

Just as the laughter dies down, Topper stands up from where he’d been lounging on a nearby log, holding up a bottle in one hand. He flashes a mischievous grin.

"Alright, alright, enough with the Pope stories," he says, his voice carrying a playful tone. "How about we spice things up a little with a game? Truth or drink, anyone?"

The group exchanges amused glances, intrigued by the suggestion.

Rafe chuckles, leaning forward. "Now we’re talking. This is how you get to know people."

Kiara, already sipping from her drink, raises an eyebrow. "Oh, this is gonna get interesting."

"Alright," Topper continues, settling back into his seat with the bottle. "I’ll start. Y/N, truth or drink?"

Y/N looks around the group for a moment before deciding, "I’ll go with truth."

Topper’s grin widens. "Alright, spill. Which roommates have you kissed?"

The group falls silent for a second, the tension hanging in the air as all eyes turn to Y/N, who takes a slow sip from their drink. They set the glass down, not missing a beat.

"Well," Y/N begins, a teasing glint in their eyes, "I’ve kissed all the boys at some point... except for you, Topper."

A collective laugh erupts from the group, some people shaking their heads in disbelief, others just enjoying the unexpected honesty. JJ raises his glass with a playful grin. "Guess I’m the favorite," he says, leaning back confidently.

Topper shrugs, clearly amused. "Alright, I’ll take that as a compliment. But now it’s your turn, JJ."

The playful mood shifts slightly as Rafe suddenly leans in, an eyebrow arched, his tone a bit more pointed. "So, JJ," he starts, eyes locking onto him, "who was that one girl you hooked up with last month? You know, the one you’ve been dodging talking about."

The air grows a little colder, the group sensing the shift. JJ’s smile falters for just a second, his eyes flicking toward the bottle of liquor.

He takes a deep breath, then grabs the bottle and pours himself a drink, not saying a word. His eyes briefly meet Rafe’s, but instead of responding, he tips the bottle back, taking a long swig.

The room falls into an awkward silence for a moment, the tension between the two palpable. Finally, JJ slams the bottle down on the ground with a lighthearted chuckle. "Alright, moving on," he says, clearly avoiding the question. "Who’s next?"

The group hesitates for just a moment before the tension begins to dissolve. Kiara nudges Pope, forcing a smile. "Okay, Pope, truth or drink?"

The camera lingers on the group, their laughter hesitant but building once more as the game continues, the vibes slowly lightening again, despite the brief awkwardness that lingers in the air.

The scene opens with the group gathered around the bonfire, now buzzing with activity as they begin the task of cleaning up after dinner. Plates clink together, and the smell of grilled food still lingers in the air as everyone works together, washing dishes and tidying up the space. There's a lighthearted mood—until Topper, wiping his hands on a dish towel, casually leans back and says something that cuts through the buzz of conversation like a knife.

"You know," Topper says, his voice a bit too loud for the moment, "Sarah and I used to do this all the time. You know, go on trips like this. Good times."

John B freezes for a split second, his hand tightening around the dish he’s drying, his jaw clenching visibly. The smile on his face falters, replaced by a tight-lipped grimace as his eyes flick toward Sarah. He says nothing, but the tension in the air is palpable.

Sarah, still focused on drying a glass, suddenly goes rigid, her face hardening. She doesn’t even look at Topper when she snaps, "Topper, shut up."

The words hang in the air, cutting the moment short. The group falls silent for a heartbeat before the sound of dishes clattering resumes, but the mood has shifted. The easy camaraderie is replaced with an uncomfortable energy, a quiet discomfort that seems to settle over everyone.

As the group begins to move on with the task, Rafe sees an opportunity to stir the pot further. Watching the tension play out, he casually gets up from the table, a sly smile tugging at his lips. He looks toward Y/N, who’s distracted by the cake preparations. Slowly, he approaches them, his voice smooth as he addresses them in a low, almost conspiratorial tone.

"Hey," Rafe starts, leaning slightly toward Y/N. "You seemed a lot happier last week when it was just... us." His eyes flicker knowingly, leaving the implication in the air without outright saying it. "It’s kinda funny how things change, huh?"

Y/N, caught off guard by his insinuation, stiffens for a moment, but quickly recovers. They force a smile, unsure of how to respond. "What’s your point, Rafe?"

Rafe shrugs casually, his smile remaining almost too sweet. "Just making an observation. You looked like you were having a good time back then. I wonder what changed."

The weight of his words hangs over Y/N as they try to ignore the growing unease bubbling inside. The tension between the group is palpable now, and Rafe’s subtle mind games are only adding fuel to the fire.

The camera captures the way Y/N’s gaze darts around the group, noticing the lingering discomfort, especially between John B and Sarah. They feel the weight of the situation bearing down on them, and despite the surprise birthday cake still in the works, it’s clear that this vacation has become anything but relaxing.

As the group gathers around the table to set up the cake, the atmosphere is thick with unspoken words and unresolved tension, leaving everyone wondering just how much longer the fragile peace will hold.

The scene cuts to the afterglow of the birthday celebration. The group is gathered around the bonfire, the flickering flames illuminating their faces as they finish singing "Happy Birthday" to Y/N. Laughter fills the air as Y/N blows out the candle on the cake, the group cheering and clapping. But despite the cheerful atmosphere, Y/N feels a sudden urge to step away, to get a moment of peace.

She makes her way inside the house, finding the hallway empty, the sounds of the party fading into the distance. Leaning against the wall just a few feet away is Rafe, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp, as if he’d been waiting for this moment. Y/N stops in front of him, and for a moment, the only sound is the distant hum of the party.

Rafe pushes off from the wall, standing so close to Y/N that she can smell his cologne—deep and musky, with a faint hint of something else that makes her heart race just a little faster. His presence is magnetic, and for a split second, it’s easy to fall back into their old rhythm.

"You look good tonight," Rafe says with a smile, his tone smooth, almost too casual. He steps a little closer, his breath almost brushing against Y/N’s skin. "It’s funny, you know? I never forget how easy it is to fall back into this." He gestures vaguely between them, the unspoken history hanging heavy in the air.

Y/N glances at him, her heartbeat picking up speed, but she’s careful not to let it show. She crosses her arms over her chest, a slight frown pulling at the corners of her lips. "I’m not doing this with you, Rafe," she says quietly but firmly. "I don’t want any drama."

Rafe’s smile falters just for a moment, but he quickly masks it with a shrug. "Drama?" he repeats, almost mockingly. "Come on, we both know what we’ve had before. It’s nothing but fun, right?" His gaze never leaves Y/N, and there’s an intensity in his eyes that only adds to the tension. "I was just saying, I’ve missed this—us."

Y/N swallows, resisting the pull of his gaze. "I really like JJ," she says, her voice softer, almost apologetic, but steady. "I’m not going down that road again with you."

Rafe doesn’t respond immediately, his jaw tightening just the slightest bit. The words sting more than he lets on, but he keeps his cool, a forced smile creeping onto his face. "JJ, huh?" he says, the hint of sarcasm in his voice, though the bitterness remains hidden. "Well, I guess you’ve got your type."

There’s a flicker in Rafe’s eyes, something dark and possessive, but it disappears just as quickly as it appears. He tilts his head, his voice lower now, teasing. "It’s not like it ever stopped being easy between us. You sure you want to play it that way?"

Y/N stands her ground, feeling the weight of the unspoken things between them. "I’m not playing games with you, Rafe," she replies, voice firm but with a quiet undercurrent of frustration.

For a moment, neither of them speaks. The air is thick with tension, the past between them lingering, but neither one willing to push too far. Finally, after what feels like an eternity, Rafe lets out a breath, his expression unreadable.

He steps forward, closing the small gap between them, and pulls Y/N into a hug, brief but tight. It’s almost too easy to fall back into this—into the familiarity of his touch, the weight of his body pressing against hers. Y/N hesitates for a moment before returning the hug, her arms encircling his waist, though it feels almost instinctive, like it’s something they’ve done a thousand times before.

Rafe pulls away slightly, looking down at her with a faint, almost sad smile. "You’re not gonna tell him, are you?" he asks, his voice low and casual, but with an underlying question that hangs between them.

Y/N just shakes her head, not trusting herself to speak. She can feel the tension building again, the space between them filled with a thousand things left unsaid.

"Guess we’ll just have to leave it at that," Rafe murmurs, his voice quiet, eyes lingering on Y/N a moment longer before he steps back. His expression is unreadable, but the distance between them feels heavier now, like something is shifting, something irreversible.

With a final look, Rafe turns and walks away, leaving Y/N standing in the hallway, her thoughts swirling. The hug lingers in her mind, the heat of Rafe’s presence still pressing against her skin, and she realizes that while the conversation is over, the complexity of her feelings is far from simple.

The camera lingers on Y/N as she stands in the hallway, her thoughts still heavy after the conversation with Rafe. A moment later, Rafe walks past her, heading back to the kitchen with a purposeful stride. He doesn’t look back, but the smirk on his face suggests something is brewing, and Y/N can’t shake the feeling that something's off.

Inside the kitchen, the group is still buzzing with energy, the sounds of laughter and playful banter drifting through the house. Meanwhile, Rafe pulls Topper aside, his voice low but urgent.

"Hey," Rafe starts, his gaze scanning the room quickly before he locks eyes with Topper. "I’ve got something that’ll make the night a little more interesting. You in?"

Topper, looking intrigued but cautious, raises an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

Without another word, Rafe motions for Topper to follow him, and they slip out of the kitchen, walking down the hallway towards the bathroom. The sounds of the group in the next room grow fainter as the camera follows them, the atmosphere in the house shifting as they enter the bathroom.

As the door clicks shut behind them, the camera’s angle shifts slightly, picking up the faint sound of sniffing through their mics—enough to hint at what’s really going on inside. The camera lingers on the bathroom door for a few seconds, allowing the tension to build before cutting back to the rest of the group.

Meanwhile, the roommates in the living room are oblivious to the shift in energy as they continue playing a lively game of Uno. Everyone is laughing, teasing one another, and the playful arguments escalate over who’s cheating and who’s got the best hand. JJ is animated, gesturing wildly at Cleo as she steals another card, while Kiara gives Pope a look of mock suspicion, accusing him of stacking the deck.

The room feels light and carefree, but then the door creaks open, and Rafe and Topper return, both of them noticeably jittery, their energy somehow more frantic. The camera catches Rafe’s eyes darting around the room, his smile a little too wide, while Topper shifts uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact with anyone.

Y/N, sitting across from them, catches the odd behavior almost immediately. She narrows her eyes, side-eyeing the pair as they try to blend back in with the group. Something about their sudden restlessness doesn’t sit right with her.

"Everything okay with you two?" Y/N asks, her voice casual, but there's an edge to it. She watches them both closely, her intuition already on high alert.

Rafe’s smile falters for a fraction of a second before he grins again, but it’s a bit too forced. "Yeah, just a little… bathroom break. You know how it is," he says, his words coming out too quickly, and Topper nods in agreement, though he looks less convinced.

Y/N doesn’t buy it. Her gaze flickers between them, but she says nothing more, instead focusing on the game at hand. Still, the unease she feels lingers in the back of her mind, and she can’t shake the feeling that something has shifted in the atmosphere, something no one else has noticed.

The group resumes their game, but the tension is palpable, the playful mood slightly dimmed as Y/N glances from one of them to the other, trying to ignore the growing suspicion gnawing at her.

The evening grows late, and the atmosphere is electric with tension and laughter as the group continues to play games. Music plays softly in the background, but there’s a palpable shift in energy. Everyone seems to be loosening up, the drinks flowing freely, but Y/N can feel the weight of the subtle animosity building between Rafe and JJ.

At one point, JJ, clearly trying to lighten the mood, hands Y/N a drink, flashing her a smile that feels a little too friendly.

"Here you go," JJ says, holding the drink out to her with a playful grin.

Y/N reaches out to take it, but before she can, Rafe steps in, leaning casually against the arm of the couch and holding up a drink of his own. "Actually," he says, voice dripping with smugness, "I made this one. It’s better."

Y/N hesitates, glancing between Rafe’s drink and the one in her hand. JJ’s eyes narrow as he steps forward, his tone sharp. "Oh yeah, definitely trust a drink from this guy," he sneers, a hint of sarcasm lacing his words.

Rafe smirks, never one to back down from a challenge. "Jealous much?" he taunts, his voice smooth and mocking, the edge of competition clear in his words.

The group falls silent for a moment, the tension palpable. Y/N can feel the heat rising between them, and before she can even respond, JJ throws a quick, biting remark. "You’ve always been a joke, Rafe."

Rafe’s smirk falters, the jabs hitting harder than expected, and before anyone can intervene, the argument escalates. JJ steps forward aggressively, his face reddening with frustration. "You think you’re so much better than everyone else," he spits out, his voice low and dangerous. "You don’t even belong here."

"You don’t even know what I’m capable of," Rafe retorts, his eyes flashing with anger.

Without warning, JJ’s fist flies through the air, connecting with Rafe’s jaw in a brutal punch that echoes through the room. The impact sends Rafe stumbling back, but he doesn’t fall. His bloodied lip splits open, a trickle of red staining his chin. The room erupts into chaos, everyone scrambling to intervene as the physical fight between the two men intensifies.

Y/N watches in shock as Rafe wipes the blood from his lip with a slow, almost amused expression. The fight spirals out of control, but Y/N steps forward, her voice cutting through the chaos. "Stop it, both of you!" she demands, her tone harsh as she locks eyes with Rafe.

The camera focuses on Rafe’s face, his bloodied expression somehow matching the twisted, dark smile creeping across his lips. He looks at Y/N, his voice low and mocking. "Really? You’re disgusted by me, but you came twice." His words cut deep, and the room goes silent, everyone holding their breath as the weight of what he just said hangs in the air.

Y/N’s face flushes with anger, her eyes flashing with pure disgust. "You sicken me," she spits out, her voice trembling with fury.

JJ, enraged by the comment, charges at Rafe again, but Pope and Kiara are quick to grab hold of him, holding him back with all their strength. JJ struggles, fighting against their grip, but Pope and Kiara are firm, keeping him from lunging at Rafe once more.

Rafe stands there, his bloody face a picture of sick satisfaction as he watches JJ struggle to break free. His smile widens, a cruel, almost victorious look in his eyes as he surveys the chaos he’s caused.

The camera zooms in on Rafe’s face, bloodied and twisted with that unsettling grin, while Y/N watches him, still seething, her hands shaking with the anger she can’t quite release. The fight, though momentarily halted, lingers in the air, the tension so thick that it’s impossible to ignore.

The group remains frozen, the weight of the unspoken words hanging between them all as the night feels like it’s teetering on the edge of something far darker.

Next time on OBX: After Dark...

The screen fades in from black, showing a quick montage of the tense aftermath from the night before. Each roommate speaks in their own confessional, offering their thoughts on the explosive events.

JJ’s Confessional: "Man, things got way too heated last night. Rafe’s just... a walking headache, and I don’t know how much longer I can keep my cool with him around."

Kiara’s Confessional: "Honestly, I’ve never seen the group like that. I thought we were here to have fun, but now it feels like a ticking time bomb."

Pope’s Confessional: "It’s getting out of hand. We’ve gotta stop this before someone gets seriously hurt. I mean, JJ throwing a punch—what’s next?"

Cleo’s Confessional: "I hate that I’m caught in the middle of this mess. I just wanted a good time... but I don’t think anyone’s having fun anymore."

Sarah’s Confessional: "Rafe and JJ… that was wild. But if I’m being honest, I’m kind of over the whole drama. Maybe I should’ve never let it go this far."

Topper’s Confessional: "Yeah, last night was intense. But honestly? It’s just gonna get worse from here. I’m not here to play nice anymore."

Rafe’s Confessional: "Everyone thinks they can control the situation. But I’ll tell you one thing—nobody gets to call the shots but me. This is just the beginning."

The screen flashes forward to the next day, showing Topper and Rafe exchanging sly grins as they invite a group of girls into the house. The camera zooms in on the shocked faces of the other roommates as they watch from the kitchen, their anger simmering just beneath the surface.

Y/N’s Confessional: "Topper and Rafe really think they can just bring people here like that? It’s like they don’t even care how the rest of us feel."

John B’s Confessional: "This isn’t a frat party. What are they trying to prove? We don’t need more chaos."

The screen cuts to Kiara and Sarah in the middle of an intense argument, their voices raised.

Kiara (yelling): "What, that you're a liar?"

Sarah (snapping back): "No, that you’re a shit-talking bitch!"

The room goes silent for a moment, followed by an exaggerated "Oooh!" from the rest of the group. The other roommates exchange shocked glances, their eyes wide at the sudden escalation.

Pope (whispering to Cleo): "Did that just happen?"

Cleo (eyes wide): "I think we’re about to see a whole new level of chaos."

The camera zooms in on Kiara and Sarah, both standing with fury in their eyes as the tension builds. The other roommates exchange nervous glances, unsure of how this argument will play out.

Coming up... The screen cuts to black as the voiceover echoes with suspense.

"Who will be pushed to their breaking point? And will the tension finally explode?"

taglist: @mymadokamagica @izurelia @davinashifts333 @hello-therree @cyberkitty1

[kalira]

Thanks for the tag @tamsinswriting!

Last song: . . .well, Jojoushi by L'Arc~en~Ciel is playing on the TV right now, so that I suppose. XD

Favourite colour: Red! A nice, rich crimson~

Last book: Everlasting Spring: 101 Poems for Every Season of Life (it's an ARC, comes out in a couple weeks; it was lovely though!)

Last movie: I'm halfway through Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest; last one I watched was the first POTC movie. (. . .ish. They've been keeping me company while I write and fight Despair Spiral brain issues. Last movie I watched paid attention to was The Swan Princess, which I hadn't seen in a bajillion years.)

Last TV show: the episodes of Jeeves & Wooster I watched this week with @mad-madam-m; we just finished the third series.

Sweet/spicy/savoury: gotta have a mix! . . .but not together. Ew. Savoury or sweet depending on mood.

Current obsession: hmmm . . . can I just say the Three Sentence Ficathon? X'D I've also been fixating on crochet (which I'm just learning, on my like seventh attempt). Fandom-wise, maybe Moon Child (still) and Vampire's Love (all by myself) (because Hyde-as-tragic-vampire does a very compelling job).

Last thing I searched online: Pixel Cats End (someone wrote for one of my 3SF prompts for it and I was curious what it is)

Looking forward to: Finishing one of my practise crochet projects! Maybe! (I have two on hooks.) The arrival of a solo card game I preordered months ago! Potentially launching [redacted project]! Longer term, seeing how big my rapidly embiggening orange kitten gets when he's fully grown!

Ten people I'd like to know better: . . .I'm not sure how up for this thought process my morning brain is, however . . . tagging (and please feel unburdened by and ignore, of course) @oblivionsdream, @penguinmusings, @navigatorsghost, @draculiza, @catboy-jupiter

Ten people i’d like to know better

Thanks for the tag @hermiola

last song: one of the songs I loved most lately is 'In The Modern World' by Fontaines D.C.

favourite colour: blue

last book: that is not fanfic? 😂 The last book I've read is Persuasion (and yes, it was my first time). I'm currently reading Emma and a very Italian book written by the same awesome author who tagged me for this game (@hermiola 💜)

last movie: I can't tell you the last 'new' movie I watched at the cinema because I'm a bit ashamed (it's a Xmas movie made by two Italian youtubers, but what don't we do for our kids?). Last movie I watched on my couch, though, is Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (and yes, I don't feel fine about it 🤣)

last TV show: I'm watching THERE SHE GOES for the first time and I've just re-watched Around the world in 80 days. I'm also currently re-watching Scrubs and Staged with my husband (his first time, he's loving it 😂). Last 'new' show I've watched and finished is probably Dead Boy Detectives, though. Oh, I'm also currently re-watching Good Omens. Like constantly, always.

sweet/spicy/savoury: savoury

last thing i searched online: holiday vacation destinations for next summer (because the kids, again, you know 😃)

current obsession: Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens-Good Omens. Probably, also the whole M+D world (so, Staged too, apparently) 😂

looking forward to: those fu**ing pictures of Michael and David with dyed hair.

ten people i’d like to know better: (no pressure tags 🤩)

@anatomic-girl @ineffablerainstorm @somewhere-in-wales @captainblou @firephoenix2305 @phoen1xr0se @sunrisesinthesuburbs @bellisima-writes @yokohamama @missunderstoodlyrics

[paddedlittleparadise]

"Baby's First Christmas" – Ream Teaser

Ever wonder what happens to good little cuckqueans during their first Christmas? Let mommy domme Corinne explain…

–––

"Welcome, welcome! Come on in, folks! It's cold as heck out there, isn't it? Sure, shoes off if you want…"

It's my first Christmas Eve as official lady of the house, and god am I loving it! Henry agreed to let me hold a party for our close friends tonight, and as our glittering tree and wealth of festive decorations make plain, that was all the license I needed to go all out. Honestly, why not? I'm not just Corinne anymore. I'm Mrs. Henry now: housewife, sexily attired hostess, interior decorator, party planner…

Oh yes. And also the capable second mother to Amy. Amy, Henry's former wife… who just earlier this year officially became our ward.

But that's all beside the point right now. Here are our good friends Dawn and Eli, rosy-cheeked and laughing, shrugging out of their coats and scarves and boots in the entryway while I bubble and effuse about how wonderful it is to see them. And I mean it, too! Not only are they going to bring a much-needed dose of socialization to our little household, but they're also going to be amazing interacting with Amy. Because, well…

"Exactly!" I bubble, leading them out into the gloriously festive living room. "It's her first Christmas Eve party since all the changes, you know. Here, where did she crawl off to? Amy! Amy, come out and say hi to our guests!"

Oh, there she comes: dragged reluctantly out of the hallway by my handsome Henry, her sweet Mary Jane shoes scraping and sliding unwillingly along the linoleum. She's done up exactly as I envisioned, too. I mean, just look at that adorable holiday outfit I put together for her! That red-and-green plaid dress! those matching hair ribbons for her pigtails! those frilly socks! those fluffy petticoats! that adorable diaper bum and frilly diaper cover peeking out with every step!

None of it is the sort of thing a twenty-something-year-old woman would normally wear, of course. But by now, every person here knows that Amy is no ordinary young woman.

"Aww! OMG, Corinne – she looks so freaking adorable! You gotta tell me where you got that outfit! And those socks?!" Dawn is squealing like a little girl herself – or rather, like the amused and extroverted girl friend I've always known her to be. Now she's stepping forward, hugging our blushing Little, who waddle-stumbles forward uncertainly into her old acquaintance's embrace. "Hey, there, sweetie! Don't you look festive? Are you excited that Santa will be coming tonight?!"

"Oh, she is," I interject. Amy's pacifier is dangling from the ruched front of her dress, and I stuff it into her mouth to stifle any protests. "It's been soo freaking cute, how excited she is for the holidays! See, earlier this week she wanted to get Christmas presents for me and Henry. But like, she's not exactly in any position to be buying anyone much of anything! So, we worked out a deal: Henry helped her make something for me and wrap it, and I did the same! So now she's got two darling little presents for us over there under the tree…"

I pause, feeling a flutter of delight as I glance down at the diminutive Amy, gazing up at us both with pacified mouth and cheeks pink with embarrassment. "Here, Amy. Why don't you go show Dawn all the presents? Go on, show her…"

Nor is Dawn's enthusiasm lacking. "Ooh – and we can tuck a few more under there, too! See, sweetie? We brought a few little things for you and your parents, too!"

And off they go. God, it's so sweet and laughable seeing my Amy waddling off to the tree. She was complaining like crazy when I was dressing her earlier this afternoon, of course. All fussy with her whines of "noo, I don' wanna diaper! I wanna wear pull-ups!" – as if she was remotely qualified to even try training pants anymore.

Fortunately, even Henry knows better than to listen to her and her silly whimpers. He has my back – which is why he didn't so much as blink when I wrapped her up in those double-thick and double-boosted Megamaxes. "After all, babe," I'd smiled serenely at Henry over her struggling whimpers, "I won't have time to change her during the party. Better safe than sorry!"

Anyway, it's frickin' cute, that ponderous waddle of hers. But busy as I am with the hundred and one things waiting for me in the kitchen, the most I can do right now is call over my shoulder to the trio of adults around the tree. "Hey – when you can, can one of you just check to see if she needs a change?"

It'd take Niagara Falls to soak that diaper she's got on. I know it well. But what's Christmas without a bit of fun? And god, there's little more fun than watching my husband's silly, juvenile little ex-wife blushing and squirming while everyone around her treats her exactly like the baby she deserves to be.

So yeah – it's no surprise when I hear a faint "Oh, yeah – wet. But she'll be good for a lot longer yet!"

In my imagination, the blush in her cheeks is probably just as beet red as the shine on these beautiful cranberries.

[…]

Want to read more? We've got the rest, plus many, many other stories all up on the PaddedLittleParadise Ream for your steamy pleasure!

[johaerys-writes]

WIP Whenever

It's been a while since I've shared a proper snippet, and since I've been working on the next chapter of As Fate Would Have It this week I thought I'd post a little excerpt from it:

“Calchas, a priest of Agamemnon, ordered a great sacrifice, a hecatomb. Apollo, the far-seeing god, sent him a vision that a great warrior would be needed within their ranks for the war to be won. My son is already famed for his speed and his skill with a spear. Agamemnon believes that it is my Achilles that shall win this war for him.”

Nereus listens to her attentively, stroking his long, mossy beard; he stays silent for a long moment after she finishes speaking, his features dark in thought. “And does he believe true, daughter?”

Thetis holds her tongue. Of all the gods, only Themis, who gave her the prophecy, and Ilithyia, who helped her during labour, know of Achilles' fate. Both goddesses are bound to her by oaths of trust and friendship. She has never spoken the truth of it to anyone else, for fear that they might use it against him.

“I do not know, my lord.”

A susurrus of whispers swells around her at once. Thetis ignores them, letting them wash over her like the tide. 

“There must be other warriors, much stronger and more experienced, that could fulfill that prophecy,” a voice comes, heavy with disdain and louder over the others. It is Amphitrite, one of the fifty nereids, who steps forward. Her long black hair is arranged in a myriad of thin yet intricate braids, sturdy like ship rope, and the fabric of her white dress is thick like a ship’s sails; no doubt a memento from one of the many shipwrecks she or her monstrous offspring have caused. Her face, though exquisitely beautiful once, is now marred by the deep grooves and scars left from her battle with a leviathan long ago. Of all her sisters, Amphitrite is the one Thetis has always liked the least. “Why did the King of Mycenae want your son, who has never fought in a war before, who has never bloodied his spear, to fight for him? That boy is little more than a baby in the cradle." 

Thetis meets her sister's challenge with a cool, detached look. “Perhaps you should ask Agamemnon's priest directly," she tells her flatly. "Or better yet, Apollo, god of mice and locusts, who gave the prophecy. I am not privy to his thoughts or reasons.”

She could argue with Amphitrite in front of the whole court; insist on the legendary quality of her son’s prowess in battle, but that would not serve her. It would not serve either of them. Better far to let them believe that this is nothing but a dream sent to a seer by a confusing and capricious god.  

Thetis POV scenes may just be my favourite to write ngl!!!

Tagging forth to (no pressure) @darlingpoppet @spineless-lobster @baejax-the-great @iktend @rowanisawriter @supernova3space @calciumyum and literally anyone else who would like to share some art or fic they're currently working on?? Idrk who else to tag haha sorry :')

[mrnightingale]

Omg I can't believe someone tagged me in one of these things??? But I love it, thanks to @sad-grandfather-clock , I absolutely love your blog name.

Last song: Ghost Town by The Specials. Yep, I started listening to Ska bc of Charles Rowland. I've always been rather secretive w the music I like bc my mom has a pretty limited music taste, so you can imagine my surprise when this started playing and my grandma said out loud how much she loved the song. She heard it on the radio on one of those programs that play music according the decade. She really is one of those "I like everything" people, I love her.

Favorite colour: more than colour, I have a specific shade I like of every single colour, but, gray ofc, and the greyish turquoise of George Rexstrew's eyes (like my blog colours). And military green, brown, dark red, magenta, and lavender.

Last book: can't remember, it's been ages (a week) since I read... But probably the poetry anthology by Becquer I gifted myself for Xmas. And if we count comics online, the Sandman and The Glass Scientists.

Last movie: Descendants 4 bc I felt nostalgic and haven't seen it yet and... It's... Different. It is the same descendants as the other movies, but it doesn't feel quite right, I would have changed a few things, like the outfits and the songs distribution along the movie but OMG MONTY IS CAPTAIN HOOK THAT BOY IS SUCH A TWINK LIVE LAUGH LOVE JOSHUA COLLEY.

Last tv show: Like I wasn't screaming it, Doctor Who xd. I'm binge watching the new series and when I finish I'm starting with classic Who. And House MD bc I'm watching it with my grandma. But I love all the ppl who said Cunk on Earth or The Good Place, they're really good, y'all should watch them.

Sweet/spicy/savoury: Sweet ofc, I have the worst sweet tooth ever, but for bakery stuff rather than sweets, and bittersweet/acid-sweet.

Last thing I searched online: "Bingle Bongle Dingle Dangle" ...well, that's before the last one, which is "findhorn case 31.08.18 film where to watch" (a short movie with George Rexstrew I haven't seen yet, if someone knows where I can watch it thank you very much).

Current obsession: Dead Boy Detectives, David Tennant as usual, punk and ballet. Like, really, my YT feed is full of ballet stuff and my Pinterest is full of cool outfits w tons of safety pins and buttons and patches, I'm want to do a battle jacket but I don't have a jacket yet, lol, I had a jean vest but I gave it to my bf bc he looked like a JoJo's character wearing it. In my opinion it was a pretty good gift.

Looking forward to: get a job, buy a jacket and, yk, take care of myself. In two months is my 18 bday and I'm still don't have the appropriate mindset, sooooo, yep. I just started journaling, see if I can keep a routine w ballet, writing and piano, workout a little. But who knows.

Ten people I'd like to know better: I don't know if I'll get to 10, if they'll do it or how much do they want to share, most of them aren't even mutuals but artists I like, but, yk, just ppl I think are nice and I'm curious about: @majorlb @alterego77 @edwinspaynes @idliketobeatree @read-write-thrive @agerblade @ouchmyghostskin @tragedy-machine @fan-a-tink @kisolvetica @asidian

10 People I'd Like to Know Better

Thanks for the tags @gaiaseyes451 and @beerok23!💜!💜

last song: Gloria by the Lumineers

favourite colour: Red, like a deep luscious red that you know would taste good if you licked it. Don't act innocent, you know exactly what I mean by that. Red is a color that you just know tastes good.

last book: I am currently trying to read the Witcher series (per @lickthecowhappy's suggestion) so I am at the start of the Last Wish

last movie: Moana 2 (I have young kidsssss)

last TV show: My oldest is almost 10 which means she stays up late. Which also means I have so little time to watch adult things. So we've been watching the Office with her. I think I want to watch the Good Place with her next tho (I've never watched it!)

sweet/spicy/savoury: Sweet followed very, very closely by spicy. Habanero maple syrup is one of my favorite things on the planet.

last thing i searched online: How to explain a 10 year career hiatus in a cover letter (looking to return to work since having kids. It's been an interesting experience so far).

current obsession: Have not moved on from Good Omens, but recently realized that my obsession may be more in my own little connected universe of fics that I wrote rather than the actual canon at this point😳. I'm sure once we get that first glimpse of red and white hair that will change very quickly.

looking forward to: Going back to work and having a more established adult life again, honestly. I've been so lucky to be home with my kids while they are young, but I am ready. And figuring out how my newfound passion for writing is going to fit into that new life of mine. Another big year of change over here for me, and I am eagerly looking forward to how the growing pains are going to make way for something beautiful beyond.

ten people i’d like to know better:

@addledmongoose, @di-42, @afrenchwriter, @haemey, @eybefioro, @alwaystuesday, @katspause, @alphacentaurinebula, @shadesofecclescakes, @ochre-sunflower and whoever wants to do it (but also feel free to ignore!)

[maybefalsefacts]

This was supposed to be for poolverine week....

MDNI/NSFW (Not that I didn't write this at work but 🤷)

T4T (kinda) Omega!Logan/Trans!Wade (based on the idea that 'Worst' Logan's world is A/B/O but Wade's isn't)

1.2K words, On AO3 here

Logan woke up feeling... wrong.

Unfortunately, it was an all too familiar sort of wrong. The kind of wrong that he always dreaded and looked forward to not at all.

He was sweaty and achy and the lights were too bright and-

And a hand ran through his hair, pausing to scritch at the sweet spot right behind his ear. And oh did that feel good.

A deep, rumbling purr started up in Logan's chest and he turned to nuzzle into the hand on impulse.

A soft chuckle came from somewhere above him.

Forcing his eyes open, Logan almost expected to see Scott there, giving him that knowing smile. Almost expected to hear his voice teasing and cooing. Logan's heat was the only time the man could get away with it without being stabbed.

Surprisingly, he wasn't at all disappointed to find Wade there instead.

Wade's smile was different, soft and concerned, understanding in a way that Scott's had never been.

"Hey, Big Guy. How are you feeling?"

Wade's hand did another pass through his hair, and Logan leaned into the touch. He wanted more.

Rolling over, he draped himself over Wade's lap, and wrapped his arms securely around the man's middle.

Wade chuckled and continued to pet through his hair; the other hand even coming up to rub over his shoulder and back.

Logan's purr grew louder as he nuzzled into Wade's middle.

"That bad, huh?"

Logan couldn't help the soft whine that slipped free when he went to respond.

But Wade, for once, didn't tease him for it. Recognizing that Logan had already gone nonverbal—like he did sometimes when he slipped into puppy-space—, Wade just gave a soft, "Don't worry, Baby. I've got you."

Wade didn't smell like Alpha, but that was okay. Logan had spent plenty of heats without an Alpha around. Hell, out of the past 200 years, he had spent the majority of them completely alone.

Wade might not have been what his body said he needed, but Wade was what his heart wanted.

Safe

Comfortable

Seen

And Wade knew that. He knew what it meant. How it felt. Why it was so confusing.

Wade understood him in a way no one else ever had.

And that, more than anything, was what Logan really needed.

They stayed like that for a few minutes, until Logan started squirming.

Wade rolled Logan over, and leaned down to murmur into his hair, "Do you want some help there, Big Guy?"

While this may have been a typical Wade Wilson line, he said it with such genuine love and concern that Logan wanted to cry. Instead, he settled for turning to nuzzle into Wade's neck with a nod.

Wade smiled and paused a moment so that Logan could get a proper whif. Then he slowly shifted around.

As quickly and gently as he could, Wade stripped Logan of his boxers and pulled his knees apart.

Wade didn't have to be an alpha to smell the pheromones wafting from his poor lover. His thighs were coated in slick; his dick throbbing; his labia begging for attention.

Mourning the fact that he couldn't sit back and enjoy the view, Wade hurried to settle between Logan's legs and lean over him.

Chest to chest, bracing himself on a forearm, Wade let some of his weight rest as Logan's arms came up to hold him fast.

Bringing one hand up to brush Logan's hair back. "You okay, Sweetheart?"

Looking up at him with big puppy eyes, Logan nodded and rocked his hips up into Wade's with a whine.

Wade bit off a groan and reached down. Gathering up some of the excess slick, he covered his dick and lined up. Then, slowly but surely, he pushed in.

With a gasp and a long groan of appreciation, Logan gratefully rocked into the sensation.

Smiling, Wade leaned down to kiss his forehead while adding the last few centimeters.

"Do you want it, Baby?"

Logan nodded frantically and started rocking.

"Shit" Wade braced himself and fumbled to match Logan's pace. "Alright, Baby. You wanna be a good boy? You wanna take my knot?"

Logan nodded and whined and, not for the first time, Wade sent a silent thank you to the inventor of knotted dildos. He was also grateful that he had managed to get ready before Logan had woken up.

Judging by the moans and whimpers Logan was giving him, his poor pup wouldn't have fared well if Wade'd had to leave him to strap up.

And so, it wasn't long before, Wade grabbed the little remote from the pillow and turned the dildo on.

Now, while the two of them had discussed and prepped for this day, Wade had not let Logan in on this special present.

It was totally worth it to see the realization light in Logan's heat clouded eyes. To hear the moan of want from deep in his chest. To feel the way his hip rocked faster and his nails dug in deeper. The way his heartbeat picked up under Wade's

Wade's knot had started swelling.

Picking up his pace to match, Wade leaned down to kiss along Logan's collar bone. "You like that, baby? You feel your big strong alpha swelling up for you?"

Logan started panting, leaning his head to expose his scent glands.

"You want your alpha to fill you up? Knot you? Breed you? Fill you full of pups?"

Legs shaking, Logan hooked his heels behind Wade's things, urging him harder. Faster. A not-so-silent plea.

"Are you ready for it, Baby Boy? Are you gonna be my good little omega and take your alpha's knot?"

Logan sobbed and nodded desperately.

"Look at me, Lo. Let me see those beautiful eyes of yours."

With the knot finally close to full, Wade pushed it in, loving the way Logan's eyes widened as he gasped and came hard.

Then Wade leaned in and bit down hard on Logan's scent glands.

Had Wade been anyone else, had he not been braced for it, had Logan not been clinging to him for dear life, Wade just might have been thrown off as Logan bucked and jerked and shuddered. For an endless minute, Wade stayed there, reveling in every move and sound and the way Logan's blood filled his mouth.

Then, when they'd mostly died away, he gently unlatched his jaw. The wound closed quickly, but Wade carefully lapped at the mark as if it hadn't. He kissed and nuzzled and 'scented' the way he knew Logan liked.

After a few minutes, Wade braced back on one arm to lean up a bit. Logan's hold tightened instantly, afraid Wade was going to leave.

But Wade just smiled down at him. Brushed his hair back. Kissed his temple, his cheeks, his lips.

And Logan relaxed back into him, as much a boneless puddle as adamantium and muscle could get.

Wade watched as his love sighed and dropped off into sleep. The knot would take a while to go down and he knew Logan liked to be laid on after sex. So, Wade continued to pet through Logan's hair for awhile, just enjoying the soft look on his face.

He was glad for the opportunity to give the other man even this small modicum of peace. Wade might not have been an alpha, but a deep satisfaction flowed through at being able to satisfy Logan's needs.

The man had done so much for him, and, if Wade could give even a modicum of that back, maybe he could be at least an okay substitute for a mate.

[writingtraumaforever]

Uncontrolled Chaos: Chapter 38

Notes: I want to apologize for the long wait. I have struggled lately to sit down and write since I've been so busy-- my brain is a bit of everywhere. I will be taking a trip starting this upcoming week, and will be gone for a week and a half! So I likely won't update until about two weeks from today. Hopefully this will hold everyone off until then! Thank you all for your patience!<3

Summary: The gangs finally connect.

UC Masterpost!

Link to My AO3!

Start:

“Okay! Here goes nothing, everyone!”

Tails’ flips on the radio’s switch, immediately being met with static.

“Well, it’s working, at least,” the kit chuckles awkwardly.

“Are we able to connect to them properly??” Shadow asks, his ears perked up high over his head in an optimistic point at the sound of the static. Listening carefully for any sort of voice or pause in the constant fuzz of sound.

“Let me see,” the kid genius leans forward again, taking a nozzle in hand and beginning to slowly turn it. 

Everyone is quiet. Amy has her hands clamped together in front of her hopefully as she stands beside the worktable, Sonic standing with both hands pressed against the same workbench to lean against it. And Shadow with his arms crossed and a determined little furrow to his brow..

The only sound being the static and the light tapping of Sonic’s impatient foot on the concrete floor of the garage.

This goes on for a few minutes. 

Sonic’s eyes flicker up to look at Shadow, seeing the building tension and nervousness on his face as each moment passes with no signal. His hope beginning to be replaced by frustration. He feels helpless. Sure, he’s managed to help retrieve some chaos emeralds, but other than that, he’s done nothing. That feeling of failing as a hero, being useless, that he’s become all too familiar with begins to creep its way back into his mind.

This is why he can never slow down. The second he does, he starts having existential crises and questioning his existence and validity– nope. He’d just rather not. Rather stay busy and stay running and not deal with any of it. If this adventure required more badnik smashing, he’d be doing way better.

Amy sighs after a few minutes of waiting, moving around the table to stand next to Shadow and gently place an arm on his back. She rubs up and down it slowly as though she’s trying to comfort him, Sonic’s eyes following the movement. His gaze then shifts back up to Shadow who just knits his brows a bit, frustration turning into something sadder now that he’s being given comfort.

Sonic’s heart twists..

“Maybe they just aren’t home right now–” “Hello?? Hello, this is Miles ‘Ta-”

Everyone’s eyes grow huge, Tails immediately freezing in his current position he had been turning the nozzle.

“..Was that-” Amy starts but she’s quickly interrupted by Shadow who is practically jumping forward against the table.

“Turn it back! Get them back!”

“I’m trying!”

“Calm down, you’re gonna make him break it!” Sonic immediately chimes in, just managing to steady the workbench the radio is sitting on before it toppled over. Amy grabbing Shadow’s arm a bit tighter and pulling him back to chill him the heck out.

Sonic hadn’t been here earlier when Shadow had gotten the message from his world. He hadn’t got to see firsthand the absolute relief and joy he had felt when he heard the alternate world’s Team Sonic speaking to him, assuring him they’re alright. That they’d get him back. He didn’t doubt the guy was thrilled to hear this, but he hadn’t expected this sort of nervous energy from him. It was still so odd.. seeing anything being expressed from Shadow other than grumpiness or annoyance.

“Sorry,” Shadow huffs, closing his eyes as he seemingly tries to gather himself, “Sorry. I just–..” He sighs again, rubbing a gloved hand back through his quills. Sonic watches him with a small knit in his brow, Tails continuing to try and regain the connection. “It’s fine, dude,” the blue hero assures with a small smile, “Just relax. Tails has got this.”

“I know,” the dark hedgehog nods in return, offering his own nervous little smile gratefully to Sonic, “I know..”

And sure as chaos, the voices on the radio start back up.

“Ayo, MC Sonic up in the hizouse!”

“It’s not a toy, Sonic..”

“I know that. Just got tired of you repeating your name over and over, bro.”

Shadow’s ears immediately perk up again, eyes widening and smile stretching wide having heard his version of Sonic speaking. 

Sonic doesn’t think he’s ever seen Shadow smile so big..

Didn’t think it was even physically possible, honestly.

Instead of jumping at the radio this time, he waits patiently for Tails to lock in a bit better onto their signal, the static remaining but dimming until it was only a low buzz. 

“..I think I’ve got ‘em,” the red blinking light on the radio turning a consistent green now, his accomplished blue eyes raising to look at Sonic’s own proud ones.

“Way to go, buddy!” Sonic grins, ruffling the kit’s bangs and causing the fox to giggle with a little blush at the praise.

“You’re amazing, Tails!” Amy adds with a grin, Shadow too focused on the radio to chime in on the appreciation currently.

“Aw, it was nothing. The instructions sent from the other world made it pretty easy–” “Can I talk to them??” Shadow interrupts without meaning to, scarlet eyes hopeful as they look at the fox for permission.

“Uh.. yes, hopefully. Let’s give it a try, huh??”

“Please,” Shadow breathes with a nod, moving to sit where Tails had been in the chair once the fox has moved for him.

Tails remains leaned over the table, showing Shadow all the controls.

“This here switch is the power. This knob is for the signal if it starts to get fuzzy. This one is volume. And to speak into the mic, you need to hold down this button..” “Got it,” Shadow nods, finger hovering over the mic button. He pauses. Sonic sees the moment of hesitation. The nervous energy feeding into his expression as he shuts his eyes and swallows thick in his throat. He’s scared.. Scared it won’t work, scared it will and what he may find when it does..

“Hey,” Sonic says quietly, Shadow’s eyes opening and looking up to his with a knit to his brow. Sonic winks and gives a thumbs up, “You got this.” Shadow’s expression softens at this, a tiny smile forming on his mouth before he nods and looks back to the radio.

Here goes nothing.

Pressing his finger down on the mic button, he leans in to speak, “Tails?? Tails, do you copy?? It’s Shadow..”

Releases the button. Waiting..

“Krrch We read you loud and clear, Shadow–”

The team erupts into cheering, Amy hugging Tails and jumping up and down with him while Sonic claps Shadow on the back with a wide grin.

“Told you!” Shadow just laughs, his eyes looking almost misty as his smile is so stretched it almost hurts his cheeks. He leans back in to speak again, “Thank chaos–” “Shadow!?? Shadow, can you hear me!?”

It’s the other Sonic’s voice now, having lost its unserious playfulness they had heard moments ago and now instead being far more excited and hopeful.

Sonic.. Doesn’t know what to think of that.

“Yes! Yes, it’s me, I’m here!” “Oh Gaia, Shadow!” is he crying??? “Oh my chaos– you have no idea how good it is to hear your voice! Are you okay????”

“I’m perfectly fine, Sonic,” Shadow chuckles breathily, his own voice sounding a bit choked up now, “They’ve been taking care of me over here.” “Good! I’d have to whoop some alternate ass if not!”Shadow chuckles at hearing this, rolling his eyes and shaking his head affectionately.

“How are you? Are you okay??” “How’s our Shadow??” Sonic finds himself adding without hesitation, his mind racing on where the other might be.. He’s done a really good job at not showing his worry throughout all of this, but now that they’re so close??.. It would just be really nice to be assured he’s okay or hasn’t tried to take on all this mess on his own.

His answer comes in the form of a gruff voice speaking on the other end of the signal.

“Sonic??”

“Shadow!” Sonic beams, leaning in closer to the alternate Shadow now to be next to the mic, “Dude, you’re alive!” “Of course I’m alive, you idiot, why wouldn’t I be??”

Sonic snorts, rolling his eyes and chuckling at that all to familiar grouchiness, “Aw man, it’s so nice to hear an insult from you again.”

“Hmph,” is all he gets in response, but Sonic knows that’s an amused huff. It makes him smile more. “We’re all good over here,” the alternate Sonic’s voice comes again, “Shadow is being taken care of, and we’re slow and steadily gathering the chaos emeralds.”

“Same here,” Shadow responds, leaning his elbow against the table as he speaks, “We currently have four. Still working on the other three.” “We’ve gotten our hands on five,” Alt. Sonic replies all smug as if it’s a competition and yeah.. Yeah, sounds like the alternate Sonic is just as juvenile as Sonic himself.

Shocker.

“Ask where they found theirs. Maybe it’ll give us some ideas for our own??” Tails offers with a cock of his brow.

“Where’d you–” “I heard him,” Alt. Sonic chimes in, Shadow smirking at his lover’s impatience, “Heya Alternate Tails, by the way!”“Hello!” Tails laughs, finding all of this honestly incredible. 

“Thanks for hooking me and my ‘lovuh’ up,” the alternate Sonic jokes, and the entire room suddenly goes quiet.

Shadow tenses up a bit, eyes widening slightly as he stares at the mic and very much not at Sonic who he can feel staring holes into the side of his head.

Sonic’s eyes were indeed boring into Shadow’s face. Waiting on him to correct the alternate version of him. Scold him for being so stupid. For calling them ‘lovers��. It never comes..

Maybe he misheard it! Maybe that’s not what his alternate version said at all! Maybe he said something completely different. Something innocent and more teasing. Or perhaps he was only playfully flirting like Sonic does with everyone, and it didn’t actually mean anything at all!

One good look at Shadow’s own deer in headlights expression told him that wasn’t true.

“...hello? Tails, I think we lost them-”“No! Nope, we’re uh.. We’re still here,” Shadow speaks into the mic, actively avoiding looking at anyone else in the room in that moment.

“Oh! It just got real quiet, so I thought-”“Nope! We’re here! All good..” Amy’s eyes shift from the back of Shadow’s head to Sonic, her hands then shooting up to cover her mouth, snorting into her palms.

Sonic blinks at this, eyes looking at her and–

She knew!?

“Okay good! So let’s talk emeralds, huh?? We got one from GUN, one in the forest outside Green Hills with the Tornado, Amy just arrived with a green one she got from Seaside. Uh.. Shadow and I got one from Eggman, and Rouge pawned one off someone in Casino Zone.”

“Perfect,” Shadow replies, though his brain barely processed any of that information. Frankly he’s a bit too tied up in the very sudden and unignorable tension in the garage, “We haven’t tried Casino Zone or Seaside Island yet, so maybe we could–” “What do you mean ‘lovuh’!?” Sonic interrupts quite suddenly, causing Shadow to flinch before sighing and rubbing a palm down his face.

Oh great.. This conversation is going to go swimmingly.

“I meant ‘lover’, but I was saying it all cool,” Alternate Sonic says after a little pause, an awkward chuckle coming through the radio, “You… you.. Did tell them we were together, didn’t you, Shads??”

Shadow groans a bit, rubbing his hand down his face and then back up into his quills, “I hadn’t exactly gotten around to it yet..” “We’re together!?” Sonic croaks, eyes wide as saucers and cheeks glowing a bright red along with the tips of his ears. Amy just giggles more, trying to keep quiet because this wasn’t funny but Sonic’s reaction was kinda hilarious?

Tails just looks extremely uncomfortable and tired. He’s worked his ass off to get this thing working and for what?? So these idiots can straighten out their relationship statuses???

“We’re not together,” Shadow corrects, gesturing his finger at himself and Sonic, before then gesturing to himself and the radio, “We’re together.” “Like– you and alternate me!?” “Yes,” Shadow sighs again, clearly not wanting for Sonic to find out like this. “You didn’t tell them??” Alt. Sonic questions through the speaker of the radio, sounding a bit confused and maybe even a little hostile, “Why didn’t you tell them!?”“I didn’t think it was exactly essential information–” “O-ho! So I’m not essential information!??”“What!? No- that’s not–” “Were you keeping me a secret so you could seduce the other me!?”

“What!?”

“You know what??? Whatever. None of this is essential anyway, so I’m just gonna go do essential things. Here’s Tails.”

“No! Sonic, wait–!”

There’s a long pause, some muffled movements through the radio and then a loud BOOM followed by silence.

More muffled movement, the mic being picked up on the other end,

“Well, that went well..,” it’s the alternate Tails’ voice again, sounding tired and annoyed. “Very,” Tails agrees with his alternate version, sounding equally as exasperated. “Why didn’t you tell me??” Sonic’s voice comes quietly, ears flattening slightly as he looks at Shadow. Shadow who looks very overwhelmed and in shock at how terribly that just went. Sonic seems angry. Confused. “You should’ve told me! I deserve to know that sort of thing!”

Amy is concerned now, no longer finding any of this amusing..

“..Sonic, maybe we should–” “No, he-.. He has the right to be upset,” Shadow interrupts her, moving from the chair to allow Tails to take his place sitting in it again, “See if you and my Tails can work something out on how to get me back.” “On it,” Tails says simply, nodding as he plops himself down in the chair to begin plotting with his alternate version.

“You,” Shadow turns to Sonic, nodding his head towards the garage’s exit, “...You and me are gonna go have a chat.”

[lynzishell]

Ten People I'd Like to Know Better

Thank you so much for the tag my lovely moots: @perseyhandmaiden, @enchanteriv, and @igotsnothing !! ✨💖✨

last song: Ocean by Rogue Wave (every so often I become obsessed with this whole album, but this week I've had this specific song on repeat - 10/10 recommend giving it a listen!)

favorite color: I'm really loving soft, muted green tones lately

last movie: Oh goodness... I think it was Deadpool 3. I saw it in the theater and laughed my ass off! Although, I may have watched Just Friends since then (not the silly American one, but the Dutch one with Josha Stradowski.. I really love that one!)

last book: omg I've been reading Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia which my lovely moot Igs (igotsnothing) recommended the last time one of these things was going around! I've been enjoying it sm so ty friend!

sweet/spicy/savory: SPICY!! Savory is a close second, but I'm not really into sweets most of the time (unless I get a random craving)

last googled: "how soon can pregnancy be confirmed after ivf" (double checking for my story before I finalize some dialogue lol... wait... is that considered a spoiler? maybe? I mean, we know it's coming, right? we've seen the future after all)

current obsession: Ezra and Milo. (don't worry, you'll meet them on Jan 20th)

looking forward to: My next chapter - The Ezra Arc ahhh!!! Also, I have a friend coming to visit in a couple of months.. haven't seen her in years (like pre-covid) so I'm very excited!

Tagging: okay, um, I'm super late to this and haven't kept track of who has already done it so feel free to ignore me if you have (or if you simply aren't interested in participating) @sirianasims, @honeyjars-sims, @likelyamused, @hannahssimblr, @beachyserasims, @feroshgirlsims, @moonfromearth, @havenroyals

[floridecuts]

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8

Yay, it's my favorite time of the week again! I'm always looking forward to read your reactions in the tag comments! They keep me motivated! A big thank you again for all people who have commented so far on this project!! <3

I actually didn't know what to draw for this part's "chapter art" so, have a Mashita with a frog on his shoulder! xD We're about halfway through the comic now and slowly making our way to the finale. (It's gonna be a long finale). So this part is again a bit more explanatory in nature before it will get more serious again.

This part also contains one of my favorite little moments of this comic - Daimon insinsting on taking care of Mashita's scratches, and not taking "no" for an answer! I really enjoyed drawing that part. ^w^ We learn more about Yashiki's powers, or theories about his powers from Yasuoka. I've always wondered why Yashiki thinks so lowly about his own spiritual powers. I've discussed this with a friend and the idea came to mind that he might have been belittled by his family, seen as a "disappointment" because his powers seem so much weaker than others. Consequently he'd think little of what he can do. But I like to think that there's actually some undiscovered powers still sleeping inside him. He might have unconsciously suppressed them because of that treatment and constant stress of expectations from his family.

Yasuoka gives Yashiki an O-mamori. It might become important later. And then there's a guilt ridden Shou. I'm not sure if it fits to his character but I thought be might feel guilty because he initially wanted to accompany Yashiki, because he knew it could be dangerous alone, but didn't after Yashiki's reassurance. Since he sees Mashita a little like his older brother it made sense to me that he would open up to him about his feelings, indirectly asking for advise. I admit Mashita's last words on the last page are heavily inspired by Fullmetal Alchemist (the scene of Edward's last talk to Rose before they part ways, in case anybody knows it). Well, I hope you liked it!!

Thanks for taking a look! :)

[littletroggo]

thank you for 200 202 followers!!

so the big two hunge huh...

i've been busy getting back into the flow with school that i didn't notice... but there are 200 of you now. it was 181 less than a week ago! i just WHAT???

i started posting more last may because i thought "eh why not." i absolutely did not expect this. seriously! most of you know my art for the cute or silly clone sketches, but that came about because i wanted to draw faster and didn't feel like drawing every little detail on tech's armor (yes it was specifically tech)

i've had a long and complicated relationship with my art, and to think it'd be noticed by even one person, surprises me. i said it in my last ramble, but i'm so used to fangirling over all my favorite artists. i know the squealing, the excitement. which is why i still can't comprehend that that's how some of you feel. there are some of you who SAVE MY ART. there are some of you who LOOK FORWARD TO IT. there are some of you who USE MY ART! that's wild to me! seriously, all of you are so kind. i'm not kidding when i say i hoard the sweet and funny comments like a dragon. it never fails to make melt whenever i see something about how my art makes you happy or brightens your day. same goes for the jokes! i've laughed until my ribs hurt from so many of them. it's really hard for the inner demons (self doubt) to have a say when there's all this support

man, there's so much i wanna put to words, but i don't know how. like all my emotions are bubbling over, and i'm scrambling to scoop them up into something discernible. saying thank you just doesn't feel like enough considering how often i respond with it. but what else could i say?

genuinely, whether you've been lurking or responding to almost everything, thank you. i respond with it so often because i mean it. i'll never be able to fully put to words how much it means to me <3

-ting

(p.s. the celebration event will go up tomorrow because i thought i'd have more time to solidify it)

[oh-three]

Ooh!

Last Song: All the Answers from the Fallout soundtrack, by Ramin Djawadi.

Favorite Color: Shades of green and red.

Last Book/Fic: I'm Too Good at Raising Hell by p3pp3r_m1nt. (Daredevil).

Last Movie: Deadpool & Wolverine. Saw it in theaters, haven't really watching anything since. Which is weird, because it's been almost six months.

Last Show: The Rookie. Season seven premiered this week!

Sweet/Spicy/Savory: My spice tolerance also sucks. And I could never choose between sweet and savory. I just love food (that doesn't have peanuts in it).

Relationship: Happily single. Who has time for relationships anyway, right? Too busy working and torturing characters.

Last Thing I Googled: "who knows daredevil is blind". I was curious what other heroes/vigilantes/etc. that don't know his identity knew. Results came up empty because I wasn't referring to the comics lol.

Current Obsession: Been thinking about Daredevil a lot (been reading the previously mentioned fic the past few evenings, just got caught up). Fun fact: I've only seen two episodes of the show. I hope to restart again soon lol.

I Look Forward to Telling You: I love you all and am happy to see so many familiar names on my dash going into this year. Together, we'll get through it.

NPTs: Literally anyone. But also @inquisitorius-sin-bin @stardustbee @sinisterexaggerator @thebigteagues

10 people I’d like to get to know better

10 people I’d like to get to know better

Since I had two separate tags in this, @spaceyjessa and @laughhardrunfastbekindsblog I decided I would make a separate post.

Last song:  with lyrics: Beautiful Boy by The Last Dinner Party (I found out about this band like two weeks ago and now I’m going through a phase I’m obsessed)

Without lyrics: I am ready by Kevin Kiner & Sean Kiner: from the bad batch season three soundtrack. Been listening to it a lot lately, as it feels pretty prevalent to the time of my life that I’m at

Favourite color: light pinks and baby blues

Last book/fic: the last book I finished was defy the storm, by Tessa Gratton (I’m getting closer and closer to being caught up on THR)

Fic: Mace Windu fixes the timeline (You should read it, it’s wonderful) 

Last movie: the rise of Skywalker (yes, I love the sequel trilogy and what about it 💅)

Last show: the bad batch... I’m re-watching, again... how predictable 🙄

Sweet/spicy/savory: I have a big sweet tooth, especially when it comes to chocolate

Relationship: single real life, but in love with countless fictional characters inside my head🤩

Last thing I googled: what does the quest cookies and cream protein bar taste like? (look, I have arfid. I can’t just buy new things to try without knowing exactly what I’m getting into first)

Current obsession: Star Wars, duh! Specifically clones and TBB, the Mandalorian and the high republic

I look forward to telling you: that if you’re reading this you’re wonderful

No pressure tags (and I’m sorry if you’re being tagged again)  @clonethirstingisreal @eobe @dystopicjumpsuit @sunshinesdaydream and anyone else who would like to.

[sandymybeloved]

finally, my exam is done, I can go home and prepare for the dalek funeral I'm attending this evening