#MARY QUINN / rel. james

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The Fella Part 10 (James Maguire X Quinn!Reader)

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Summary: A family occasion takes a turn for a worse when Mary tells her aunt Bridie to drop dead, which she takes seriously. At her wake, Michelle has the bright idea to bring laced scones, which are taken and distributed among the guests.

A/N: credits to @crumpets-are-better-with-jam for writing out the script of the episode for me :)) btw just a warning, it gets a bit heated a little towards the end, but not too much i think. Also talks of drugs bc duh

***

It was becoming a bit difficult to keep up with who knew about Y/n and James’ relationship and who didn’t. Y/n’s sister Erin knew that she fancied James, but wasn’t updated on the fact that they had been dating for over three months now. Clare knew that the pair were going out after catching them kissing at the Take That concert a few weeks ago. But the rest of the group and the teens’ families were none the wiser.

Except for Y/n’s father, Gerry.

One night, everyone was hanging around the Quinn household. There were movies, loads of chatting, and some dinner. But with so many people in the house, it was hard to have even a moment alone with James. So, while everyone argued over what to put on next, Y/n snuck out to the front room, boyfriend close behind.

“I thought we weren’t gonna try to keep things a secret,” James said as he leaned against the wall, Y/n tucked into his side and holding his hand.

“I know Jamie. But with situations like this, I think it’s better to sneak away. I mean, imagine the shock that would come to Mammy, Granda, or Michelle if any of ’em found out.”

“Yeah…” James sighed, realizing Y/n was right.

“Now imagine if all three of them found out at the same time.” Y/n laughed at the idea while James’ eyes widened in horror. “Besides, wanting a moment to ourselves isn’t all bad, right?” She asked, looking up at the boy.

“Right.” He mirrored her soft smile before leaning down to catch her lips in a kiss that was eagerly returned. 

So eager that the two didn’t hear the door open.

“You’re lucky it’s me catching you two instead of your mother,” Gerry spoke, startling Y/n and James, who jumped apart. He felt a bit awkward catching his daughter kissing her boyfriend, but he didn’t look too surprised that she had a boyfriend in the first place.

“Da, I can explain.” Y/n tried to go on, but Gerry held up a hand, signaling her to stop.

“I already know.” He said with a smile, hands clasping behind his back. “About you two. Never would’ve if they didn’t decide to film that concert you girls went to.” That new information mortified Y/n and James. But they didn’t have time to fully react, because Gerry continued. “I think the three of us should have a little chat.”

***

The conversation wasn’t as bad as Y/n thought it would’ve been. Gerry was clearly happy and okay with the relationship, just wanting to make sure that they weren’t doing anything too serious. That topic might’ve been the most embarrassing part of the interaction for Y/n.

James, on the other hand, seemed scared shitless the entire time. But Y/n suspected that her father wasn’t so hard on him because of how he was treated by his father-in-law. He probably didn’t want to create some kind of a cycle. Plus, Gerry was pretty fond of James, even before he learned about him and his daughter being an item.

The entire talk played on a loop in Y/n’s head as she sat in church with the rest of her family, waiting for their relative’s wedding to start. Soon enough, the familiar tune of ‘Here Comes The Bride’ started to play, and everyone in the room stood.

“Where do you reckon Aunt Sarah is?” Y/n asked her sister Erin, noticing that a family member was missing from their pew. But her question was soon answered when Sarah entered the room and started walking down the aisle, dressed in white. “Good God.” 

Gasps and murmurs filled the room as Sarah went to stand with her family in the pew, revealing a horrified bride and her father behind her.

“Jesus, but that taxi took forever, so it did.” Sarah sighed. The bride-to-be looked at Sarah, absolutely appalled as she passed by. “Ach, isn’t she gorgeous?”

Mary rolled her eyes and looked up towards the sky as she took a deep breath.

“Give me strength…” She muttered.

***

Y/n was a bit surprised that the Quinn family, mainly her aunt Sarah, was still invited to the reception. But that didn’t stop her from trying to have a good time. She, her sister, and her cousin drank and danced around as they waited for their friends to arrive.

Soon enough, Erin spotted their friends, nudging her sister and cousin to gain their attention. They quickly ran to the venue entrance to meet with the other girls and James.

“Muthafuckas!” Michelle yelled in greetings, arms spread out and grin wide. 

“How’s it been?” Clare asked with a smile.

The sisters and Orla all had different responses, but had the same reaction when Mary snuck up behind the three of them.

“Girls!” The shout startled them, and everyone whipped around to look at her.

“Jesus, Mammy,” Y/n muttered.

“I said you could invite one friend to the reception. One!”

“Mammy, they don’t come separately,” Erin said, rolling her eyes. She thought her mother would’ve learned this after years of friendship.

“We’re like one big set,” Y/n said, gesturing to the group of teenagers.

“Aye, we’re pack animals, Mary,” Michelle said. Mary was about to say something, possibly tell them to leave or further reprimand them, when James spoke.

“I love your hat, Mrs. Quinn.” He said with a smile, eyeing the accessory. Mary smiled, and the girls were surprised to see that her slightly sour mood had seemed to disappear.

“Thanks, son.” She said, giving him a nod before looking at the whole group, a bit more serious. “No wild carry-on. Do you hear me? We’re in enough bother as it is. Best behavior.”

“Completely.” Clare nodded, taking the commands to heart.

“You’ll have no trouble from us, Mary,” Michelle said with an innocent smile, which should be worrying. Mary walked off, and Michelle turned back to the group once she was out of earshot. “Okay, girls, who wants to do drugs?” Y/n snorted at the complete 180, but Michelle was completely serious.

The girls, mainly Michelle and Erin, like always, had a back and forth about the drugs and someone named Macca and so on. Y/n used this moment to turn to James, almost glued to his side at the back of the group as they all walked around the reception party.

“Trying to butter up Mammy, are you?” She asked teasingly, thinking about how James’ little comment completely changed her mother’s sour demeanor.

James laughed a little, throwing his head back, and Y/n couldn’t help but smile stupidly at the boy. He shrugged.

“Well, I figured I might as well start now to try to get on her good side. It’s only a matter of time, I think.” Y/n nodded in agreement.

“We could tell them.” She suggested after a small moment of silence. James perked up, both surprised and delighted by the notion. “I mean, like you said, it’s only a matter of time. And they’d probably prefer hearing it from us over walking in on us doing something.”

James’ cheeks reddened at the sentence. He blinked a few times, his mind clearly drifting off to some kind of thought.

“And by something… you mean like-” Suddenly, the lights dimmed, and music started blasting through the speakers. Y/n lit up in excitement along with the rest of the room, while James looked a bit confused at the commotion that started to happen.

“‘Rock the Boat’! It’s ‘Rock the Boat!” Clare squealed as she recognized the song.

“Happy fuckin’ days!” Michelle said, and the girls ran to the dance floor. Y/n was dragging James behind her, who seemed slightly alarmed by everyone’s intense enthusiasm. 

Everyone sat on the floor in long, giant rows, fighting for space. The girls were able to push their way to the front, synchronously dancing with the rest of the party people. There, the girls continued their drug conversation, with Y/n and James now joining in.

“Look, Michelle,” Clare said to the girl behind her. “Drugs are illegal, drugs are addictive, and perhaps most importantly, in this country, you can lose your kneecaps if you’re caught doing them. And I like my kneecaps, Michelle; they suit my knees.”

“You do have crackin’ kneecaps, Clare.” Orla smiled at the girl, having to leave to the side and turn her head to look at the blonde.

“Is that true?” James asked, lips close to Y/n’s ear.

“What?” Y/n turned around, almost startled by how James was to her face. “Clare’s kneecaps?”

“No. I mean losing your kneecaps.”

“Oh. Clare’s a bit dramatic, Jamie.” The girl turned back around to face ahead. “But she’s a bit right, I think.”

“What?!”

Before any conversations could continue, a dull but loud thud was heard from a corner of the room. Everyone looked to see Aunt Bridie lying on the floor, with the Quinn family looking at Mary in shock.

***

The next few days felt tense at the Quinn household. It was mainly the teenagers being fearful of Mary, because they believed that she was the reason for her Aunt Bridie’s sudden death and didn’t want to be her next victim. The house had never been so clean and tidy.

“I just cannot believe it.” Mary’s tone was almost flat as she stared off into space, clutching her teacup and rarely ever sipping it.

“Listen, Mary,” Sarah said, sitting in the chair beside her. “No matter what you’ve done, you’re still my sister. I’ll stand by you.”

“I haven’t done anything, Sarah.”

“Exactly, love. Everybody knows you didn’t mean to kill the old boot.” Grandpa Joe paused to take a sip of his coffee. “God rest her soul.”

“I didn’t kill her,” Mary responded, immediately tired of the assumption.

“You know what I mean, not kill.” Joe looked around as if he would find the word he was looking for on the wall. “Hex.”

“I didn’t hex her either, Da.” She said defensively. “It was just a very tragic-”

“My mother, she had the gift too, y’know.” Joe interrupted. “By God, that woman could make her enemies drop like flies.”

“Look, I don’t have any gift,” Mary said, letting go of her teacup to lay her hands flat on the table to show finality and seriousness. “There’s no dark forces at play here. I just said somethin’... unfortunate that happened to-”

“Cause her death?” Sarah asked.

“Coincide with her death.” Mary corrected.

Ah, yes. Mary telling her aunt Bridie to drop dead and then her actually doing it was just an unfortunate coincidence. Nothing more, nothing less.

Meanwhile, at the sink, Y/n dried the last dish that Erin washed and handed it to Orla to put away. The three girls had been working as quietly as possible, not wanting to disturb Mary. Erin was the first to speak, turning around slowly with a nervous tone.

“Right. Well, that’s the dishes done. Would you like another cup of tea, Mammy?”

As if remembering she even had a cup of tea, Mary looked down at the cup and took a quick sip.

“No, I’m fine.”

“I’ll just grab the Hoover n’give the stairs a bit of a going over.”

“Aye, and I can sweep the hall and such,” Y/n added, trying to remember the last place she had seen the broom. 

“And I’ll maybe do a bit of dusting,” Orla said.

Mary raised an eyebrow, suspicion of the girls pulling her out of her dazed and solemn mood.

“What’s gotten into you all?” She asked. “What’re you up to? What’s going on?”

“Nothin’!” Erin answered, still seeming a bit scared. “We just thought that we should pull our weight a bit more, Mammy.”

“You do so much for us, Aunt Mary.”

“Aye, Mammy, you deserve a bit of a break.”

“I can’t hex people, girls,” Mary said frustratedly. “It was an accident.”

As if on cue, Gerry waltzed into the kitchen and smiled at his wife. He placed a hand on her shoulder as part of a greeting.

“So, how’s the Wicked Witch of the North West?” The question seemed so loving and innocent. Y/n would’ve laughed if Mary hadn’t seemed like she was actually about to murder someone.

“Who put fifty p in the eedgit?” Joe asked, glaring at Gerry. Gerry looked at him confused, wondering what he had done this time.

Mary groaned, dropping her head into her hands.

“God, how am I going to go to this wake?”

“It’ll be grand, love,” Joe said. “But listen, say if things do get heated, try not to rise to it. The last thing we want is another dead body on our hands here.”

Mary stared up at Joe with a blank expression.

“I’ll do my best, Da.”

***

Later that evening, the Quinns and McCools arrived at the wake. Everyone seemed a bit surprised and startled to see Mary, clearly believing the rumors that she had been her Aunt Bridie’s undoing. After a slightly awkward encounter with Eamon, Bridie’s son, the girls escaped everyone by going upstairs to the room that held Bridie herself.

“She really suits bein’ dead, doesn’t she?” Orla said after a good moment of solemn silence, staring down at the woman.

“What?” Erin seemed disturbed by what her cousin had said, but Y/n nodded.

“No, yeah, I agree. I like her better like this.”

“Y/n, she’s dead.”

“Oh, so you’re saying you liked her better living?”

Before Erin could answer, the door to the room opened. The girls turned to see Clare peeking her head through.

“Can we come in?” She asked in a whisper.

“Why are you whispering, Clare?” Y/n asked, tilting her head in confusion. Clare paused, thinking it over.

“I don’t know.”

The rest of the group crowded around Bridie’s casket. Michelle and Clare walked to the end by her feet, and James decided to stand behind Y/n. He rested a hand gently on her shoulder, as if to comfort her, and she raised a hand of her own to lay on his, as if to thank him.

“Thanks for comin’, guys.” Erin sighed, seeming slightly distressed now. “It’s nice to have a bit of support in this very difficult time.” Everyone seemed very confused by the statement. 

“You thought she was a dick,” Michelle said.

“I never said that.”

“You did, Erin,” Orla said.

“I’m pretty sure we all thought she was a dick, but you were the vocal one about it,” Y/n added.

“Aye, I’ve definitely heard you say it,” Clare said.

“Okay, can I just check something?” James asked, clearly focused on something else. The girls looked at him, waiting for him to continue. “Everybody else can see the dead body, right?”

Everyone took a glance at the body in question, trying to figure out what the problem was.

“It’s just Bridie, Jamie,” Y/n said.

“It’s Bridie’s corpse.” The boy corrected. “It’s Bridie’s dead corpse.”

“It’s her wake. What were you expectin’?” Michelle asked, rolling her eyes.

“Haven’t you ever seen a dead body before?” Erin asked.

“Of course not!” James nearly yelled, shocked that Erin would even ask such a question. Michelle scoffed.

“Christ, but the English are weird.”

Orla leaned down close to Bridie, taking her face in her hands and looking up at James. She had that childlike but absentminded wonder in her eyes and smile that she always had.

“You can touch her if you want.”

James flinched, moving his hands to Y/n’s hips as he took a slight step back. As he moved back, he maneuvered Y/n to act as a shield between him and the dead body and Orla. James looked at Orla in disgusted shock.

“Why the hell would I want to touch her?” Y/n snorted at James’ suddenly high-pitched voice.

“It’s nice.” Orla smiled brightly.

“Stop it.”

“It’s just a dead body, James,” Clare said in a comforting tone, trying to get him to calm down. “We’re all gonna be one someday.”

“Oh, thanks for that, Clare!” Horrified, James brought Y/n closer until her back was pressed against his front. It was as if everyone else was some sort of strange or bad energy that could only be warded off by Y/n, and she was happy to go along with it. “Yeah, that’s helped!”

“It’s okay, Jamie,” Y/n said, patting one of the hands gripping her hips. James relaxed just a bit, but was still weary because of how weird this whole situation was to him. “Calm yourself.”

“It really makes you think, doesn’t it?” Michelle said solemnly, staring at Bridie for a second before looking at the girls. “Death.” She sighed dramatically, and everyone immediately wondered what she was up to this time. “It just… just makes you wanna… do everythin’ and just… try everythin’.”

“What’s going on, Michelle?” Clare asked, looking at her suspiciously.

“Yeah, what are you on about?” Y/n eyed the girl with a raised brow. Michelle suddenly seemed excited, a stark contrast to her fake grimness.

“Do you wanna see something’ class?” Michelle then threw her purse, which was, for some reason, big and bulky, onto Bridie’s feet. Someone would’ve reprimanded her for disrespecting the deceased by using Bridie as a table, but they were too busy watching her pull a big Tupperware out of her purse. “Prepare yourself, girls.” She then popped the lid off to show what was inside. She looked at her friends excitedly.

“Scones?” Erin asked, clearly unimpressed.

“That’s right.”

“What’s so class about scones?”

“Scones are lovely.” Orla countered, seeming a bit offended by Erin’s uninterest.

“Aye, I like scones.” Clare nodded.

“No, these aren’t any old scones, girls.” Michelle insisted, shaking her head. “These are funny scones.”

“Funny’s the right word, alright,” Y/n said, reaching for one of the scones in the bin to look at it. As she dropped it back in with the rest, she looked at Michelle with a tilt of her head. “What’s so special about ’em?”

“They’re drug scones!” Clare squeaked, pointing urgently at the food. “She’s put the drugs in the scones!”

“Too fuckin’ right, I have,” Michelle said with a grin. “I wanted to do brownies, but this was the only recipe my ma had, so…”

“I don’t think it’s that hard to find a brownie recipe, Michelle,” Y/n said. 

“I’m not goin’ out of my way to find a brownie recipe, Y/n.”

“We talked about this, Michelle. We agreed.” Clare said, bringing the conversation back to the drugs.

“No, we didn’t,” Michelle argued. “Anyway, drugs aren’t illegal when you put them into food. Everybody knows that.”

“I’m not so sure about that, Michelle,” Y/n said.

“Is that right?” James asked sarcastically, almost glaring with bewilderment at his cousin. “I’m not sure that’s right.”

Just then, the door opened, and everybody froze. An old woman walked in, and the girls quickly recognized her as one of the caterers for the wake.

“Any cups up here?” She asked, walking towards them while looking around. She spotted the tub, and before anyone could stop her, she reached out and grabbed it. “I’ll take that.” The woman said simply before leaving the room.

Everyone stared at where the scones had once been, panic running through them all.

“What the fuck just happened?” Michelle asked the room. Y/n looked at the girl with wide eyes.

“I believe a caterer just took your funny fuckin’ scones to give out at our great Aunt Bridie’s wake, Michelle.”

After another moment of feeling frozen, everyone went downstairs as fast as possible without drawing attention. Defeated and not knowing what to do, the girls sat down on the steps. As they settled, they watched Joe pass by with one of the scones in hand.

“What are we gonna do?” Clare asked frantically.

“It’s fine,” Michelle said shortly. But everyone could tell she was just as panicked as the rest.

“It’s definitely not fine!” Clare hissed. “There’s drug scones down there. People’ll eat the drug scones, then we’ve drugged those people, Michelle.”

“Our granda included.” Y/n butted in, resting her chin on the top of James’ head, who was sitting on one of the steps just below her. “Lord knows what’ll happen to him.”

“So?” Michelle said, clearly worried but trying to seem aloof. “Drugging people isn’t a crime.”

“You’ve a very loose grasp of the law, Michelle,” James said, rubbing at his eyes in disbelief and exhaustion.

“What kind of person brings hash scones to a wake?” Erin asked with a scowl. Michelle scoffed.

“Typical.” She said. “I try to do a nice thing, and this is the thanks I get.”

“A nice thing?” Y/n repeated in disbelief, turning back to look at Michelle. “Oh yeah, how nice. Let’s all get hopped up illegally at a wake. Oh, wait. We can’t, because someone took your stupid scones!”

“It’s terrible,” Clare added, sounding as panicked and scared as usual. “There’s old people down there; what if an old person takes one?”

“Why does everyone get so sentimental about old people?” Michelle asked. “Old people are arseholes.” 

“We’ve got to get ’em back, girls,” Erin said, starting to get scared of the thought of any of her family having a funny scone.

“Look, I’m not disagreeing with you. I bought that stuff so I could get high, not your great Uncle Colm.”

“Oh Christ, I didn’t even think about that,” Y/n muttered. Colm was already a character to begin with; him being high as balls would probably turn him either more boring or unmanageable. Y/n stood up and faced the girls. “Here’s the plan. I’ll head to the kitchen to grab whatever’s left. The rest of you go and find the ones that people have taken and pray that they haven’t taken a bite yet.”

“And remember, girls,” Erin said, standing up with her sister. “Be subtle.” Everyone nodded and split up to do their tasks.

Y/n went to the kitchen and quietly crept to the swinging door. She took a quick look, saw that the few people inside were occupied with different things, and carefully walked in. She was surprised to see her father ranting about cross-contamination and using different bowls. Y/n wondered if he had been roped into helping in the kitchen, but whether he was forced or had volunteered, she smiled at the sight of his sudden passion.

Y/n spotted the scones, about half the amount from the last time she saw them, now plated on a serving platter. While reaching for the plate, the door opened behind her.

“Now listen here, you.” Y/n flinched and turned around quickly, recognizing the voice to be her granda Joe. But he wasn’t looking at her. As usual, he directed his pointed look to Gerry, who looked at his father-in-law, both confused and annoyed.

“Yes, Joe?”

“I just wanna say…” Joe trailed off, getting closer to Gerry and putting a hand on his shoulder. Gerry and Y/n looked at the old man in bewilderment when he laughed. “I think you’re doing a fine job.” Then he patted Gerry’s cheek before turning around and walking out of the kitchen. “Keep up the good work.”

Gerry and Y/n turned their shocked stares to each other once Joe was out of the room. The only thing that broke their eye contact was a timer going off, which somehow snapped Gerry back into his working mode. Using the opportunity of her dad’s distractedness, Y/n swiped the platter and walked out.

The girl soon realized that she and her friends never agreed on a place to meet after retrieving the scones. But not wanting anyone to see her wander around with a platter of scones, she snuck back upstairs, where she was surprised to see James slowly wandering the hallway.

“Hey,” Y/n said with relief, glad it was him instead of a stranger. Or worse, her mother.

“Hey.” He smiled at her, holding up a scone as he walked closer to her. “Found your uncle Colm with this.” He sat the scone on top of the others.

“Thank God you got it before he took a bite.” Y/n laughed lightly, James joining in. “Were you just waiting for someone to come up?”

“Yeah, I thought being up here would be better than wandering around where everyone else was.”

“Smart.” Y/n nodded once, looking around the empty hall. “What do you suppose we do about all of these?”

The two thought for a moment, racking their brains for an idea. James suddenly snapped his fingers.

“Remember when you snuck over to mine that one night, and we watched Goodfellas?”

“Aye, Ray Liotta was a dream, wasn’t he?”

“Sure.” James rolled his eyes at the comment. “But do you remember how Karen got rid of the drugs?”

Y/n took a quick second to think about whether or not she did, in fact, remember. The most memorable things of the night she snuck over to James’ were Ray Liotta, the snacks James had snuck up to his room, and kissing each other to keep loud talking or laughs from gaining the attention of the rest of the household.

“You think it’ll work?” Y/n asked once she remembered what James was talking about. “I mean, these are scones.”

“What other options do we have?” James asked. And to be honest, Y/n couldn’t think of any.

The sound of a knob turning startled the two teens. They scrambled to hide the stolen platter of scones behind them just before the bathroom door a bit down the hall opened up. A middle-aged woman that Y/n barely recognized walked out, and Y/n and James smiled politely at her as she passed.

Once she was down the stairs, James and Y/n ran to the bathroom, locking the door behind them.

“Let’s just wait for the others here,” Y/n said, balancing the platter on the sink so she wouldn’t have to hold it any longer. “So… what d’ya wanna do?”

It took a few seconds of silence before Y/n and James rushed at each other, quickly becoming a mess of tangled limbs and clashing lips. The couple rarely had time alone for things like this, the heat of the moment always being ignored because of the fear of being caught. But with a locked door, a few minutes of making out couldn’t do much harm.

Y/n’s hands buried themselves into James’ curls, tugging at them as he backed her into the wall next to the door. A hand cupped the back of her neck while the other stayed gripped on her waist, keeping her in place. Not that she’d want to leave.

James’ lips strayed away from Y/n’s, leaving featherlight kisses across her cheek and jaw before settling on her neck. The hand on Y/n’s neck pulled back her hair, giving James the access he needed to nip and suck lightly at the sensitive skin just below Y/n’s ear.

“Are you marking me?” She asked, breath hitching. She wasn’t opposing the matter, far from it, really. But she was a bit surprised to have this kind of behavior coming from James.

“Just a bit.” He replied breathlessly, kissing the slightly sore spot before returning to Y/n’s lips. “For a bit of fun, y’know?” Y/n giggled. She was lucky that she could probably hide the soon-to-be mark by keeping her hair down.

“Sure, just a bit of fun.” She replied, pecking James’ lips a few times.

The two were able to get themselves straightened out just before the rest of the girls found them. They closed the door behind them, and James caught them all up on the plan.

“I can’t believe we’re doing this.” Michelle sighed as she and the rest of the group broke apart the scones and dropped the crumbled bits into the toilet. “It’s fuckin’ heartbreaking.”

“Believe me, Michelle, it’s better this way,” Y/n said, grabbing another laced scone. “Granda’s had one, and now he’s acting, like, really fuckin’ weird.”

“You’re being paranoid.”

“He was nice to Daddy.” The group made noises of shock and disbelief. “Exactly. And if Mammy starts asking questions…”

“You’re Ma won’t trace it back to us.”

“Are you serious?” Erin asked Michelle. “She traces everything back to us. She traces things we haven’t even done back to us!”

“Are you sure this’ll work?” Clare asked James.

“This is how you get rid of drugs, Clare.” He said confidently, as if this wasn’t the first time he’s had to do this. “I’ve seen Goodfellas, like, twenty times.”

“Aye, good movie,” Y/n commented as she brushed her hands on her jeans to get rid of the crumbs that stuck to her nervously sweaty palms. 

“That’s not the only way.” Orla countered. “I watched this film once about this girl who was tryin’ to hide drugs, and what she did was she shoved them right up her—”

“I’m not sticking a scone up my hole, Orla.” Michelle hissed. Orla shrugged, raising her hands in defense.

Once everyone was done breaking down the scones, Clare sighed, seeming as nervous and panicked as always.

“Okay, I’m gonna flush.” She did so, and everyone watched as not much happened. “Is it working?”

“‘Course it’s working,” James said, still sure of his plan.

But then the water started to rise, and everyone started to panic.

“Jesus Christ!” Erin yelped in a high-pitched voice. “Why is the water rising, James?”

“I don’t know! The water didn’t rise in Goodfellas!”

“We’ve clogged it.”

“Who has a plunger?” Orla asked, seeming to be the most calm of the group.

“I’m afraid I left the house without me plunger tonight, Orla,” Erin replied, clearly sarcastic. 

“Aye, me too,” Orla replied seriously. “Nightmare, so it is.”

The toilet started flooding faster, and the girls scrambled around in a panic. Scone water was beginning to spill onto the floor, and everyone had to stop themselves from gagging as they tried to find a way to clean it up. This situation couldn’t possibly get any worse.

“Dear God…” Everyone whipped around to see the adults of the Quinn and McCool families, plus Bridie’s son, Eamon. Erin laughed nervously, deciding to be the one to find an excuse.

“It looks worse than it is.” Was all she said, which really wasn’t much of an excuse.

“My mother was right about you people,” Eamon said, horrified and angry. “Wild animals have more manners.”

“We didn’t have a plunger, Eamon!” Orla shouted.

“Get out!” He yelled. “Get out!”

The teens did so gladly, running out of the bathroom and out of the house. They gathered on the front lawn, and they couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of the evening. But they still feared what would happen when Mary walked out.

“The night wasn’t all that bad, I think,” James said quietly, only Y/n being able to hear him. She looked up at him curiously.

“How so?”

Instead of speaking, he raised his hand to cup her neck, gently tapping where he had bruised her. She gasped, pushing his hand away before the two of them fell into laughter, not caring about the confused looks their friends gave them.

“I’ll see you Monday, then?” He asked when they had calmed down a bit. Y/n caught a glimpse of her mother leaving the house before she answered.

“If I live that long.”

~~~

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[storytelers-arc]

“Why d’you keep staring at me?”

Fine. If that’s how he meant to play it. “Perhaps I’m just admiring your Roman profile.”

He smirked. “’Roman’ is a nice euphemism for broken nose.” They climbed another dozen steps. “A nose you helped to shape,” he reminded her.

She grinned at the recollection of their first fight — a fistfight. As the shorter, weaker party she’d lost, of course, but she’d held out for a decent length of time. “Anybody as high-handed and arrogant as you ought to expect the occasional broken nose.”

they are really flirting about the time she broke his nose... they are the best.

[mermaidsirennikita]

So You Liked (Or Didn't Like) Bridgerton

So you've read the Bridgerton series and loved it--or, for whatever reason, you tried to read them, they didn't work for you, but you're interested in reading historical romcoms nonetheless.

Historical romance is a subgenre of romance, but in itself there are further subgenres. There are the gambling hell romances--think Dreaming of You, or the Rules of Scoundrels series; there are Scottish romances, along the lines of The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie; there are lighter romances, darker romances, and so on and so forth.

Bridgerton falls into the "family saga" subgenre. It's also a lot lighter than many historical series, and additionally does not dedicate much time to historical accuracy (which is fine! I personally don't care much for accuracy in my historical series). It could be categorized as a "wallpaper historical" but.... That term is understandably controversial as it can be considered a bit demeaning. A lot of what I read is wallpaper (the idea of historical accuracy being more important than the reality) and I tend to prefer more emphasis on the relationships than the accuracy.

Certainly, Bridgerton is more of a ballroom series--the characters are largely upper class, the stakes are relatively low, and we do indeed spend a fuckton of time with the ton.

If you're looking for something romcom-y, if you're looking for ballroom, it can be hard to sort through the genres. That's why I'm building a list of series to look for if you're seeking that Bridgerton vibe without it being Bridgerton.

Love by Numbers by Sarah MacLean. This trilogy does indeed focus on a family--specifically three siblings, including the Marquess of Ralston, his twin brother, and their half-sister. But where I feel this gives that Bridgerton feeling is the humor that MacLean tends to flavor her books with, as well as the frothy ballroom-y setting of the first and third book in particular. Fans of Penelope Featherington might like Callie, the heroine of the first book, Nine Rules to Break When Romancing A Rake--a plus size heroine who goes after what she wants (though in my humble opinion, her hero fuuuuuuuuuuuuucks a lot harder than Colin Bridgerton). While book two gives us something of a cozier romance, book genderflips typical class divides a bit--giving us a rakish, illegitimate heroine and the uptight duke who's obsessed with her (despite himself).

The Wallflowers by Lisa Kleypas. It doesn't get much more ballroom--or seemingly ballroom--than four wallflowers agreeing to help each other land eligible husbands. The marriage mart is on overdrive in this classic series. You get a little bit of everything here--self-made heroes, upper class peers, American heiresses seeking lords, marriages of convenience. The girls aren't family (well, two of them are related, actually) but they feel like four sisters. Keep in mind, though, as a general rule: Kleypas heroes tend to run a bit grittier and a bit more threatening than Quinn heroes. Featuring one of the most influential historical romances of the past couple of decades, Devil in Winter--but take it from me and read these in order.

Girl Meets Duke by Tessa Dare. If you love the humor in the Bridgerton books, you have to read Tessa Dare. Her books are undoubtedly the funniest historical romances I've read. This ongoing series in particular focuses on women who, yes, run into dukes. Whether it's a duke who needs an heir, or a guy named Duke--one way or the other, they are duke-adjacent. Dare's sex scenes tend to get a lot more graphic than Quinn's, but these books are nevertheless perfect for quick, light reading.

The Rogue Files by Sophie Jordan. Sophie Jordan has everything: romcom retellings (While The Duke Was Sleeping), rogues galore, SEX POTIONS??? There's a bit of wackiness to her books, and I can't help but appreciate her willingness to go for it all. Her Debutante Files duology is a good companion series, and while the books don't necessarily follow a single family to the letter, there is a stepsibling romance in that series. So.... points?

The Hathaways by Lisa Kleypas. While Kleypas does write another family series, The Ravenels, I find The Hathaways to be far superior. Following five siblings after they stumble into the upper class by means of an unexpected inheritance, this series blends humor and high drama for the sake of romance. You get a little bit of everything--rake romances, childhood friend romance, bad boy romance, epistolary romance. The sense of family is really strong in this series, and while not every hero is a conventional lord (Kleypas loves a self-made man) the sense of wish fulfillment in this one is strong.

The Bedwyn Saga by Mary Balogh. If you like your romances to focus on family while being a bit lighter on steam and a bit heavier on classic froth, the Bedwyn Saga is for you. While these books can be a bit too heavy on high society for me at times, I would call them one of the closest cousins to the Bridgerton books. I'd be a bit shocked if Balogh and Quinn didn't influence each other on some level.

Fairy Tales by Eloisa James. An Offer from a Gentleman is literally a straightforward Cinderella retelling, so why not pick one of these up? Although they aren't related to each other in plot or characters, these books are all fairy tale retellings by way of historical romance. Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling, and Rapunzel all get retold in this series. James is another one who I find really funny, while being something of a classic historical romance writer.

I plan on reading more and adding to this list as time goes on--but in general, I think these series kind of fall into some of the same general categories as Bridgerton. Happy reading!

[crimsoncityhq]

While the night is far from quiet, what with all of the costumed patrons milling about the lobby and rubbing elbows on a too-crowded bench, it is peaceful. It’s been at least an hour of carefree mingling, and the only inconvenience anyone has found thus far is the guy dressed as H.H. Holmes being a little too method in his acting, stalking around amongst the crowd before disappearing the moment you see his blur in your periphery. Those who haven’t indulged in the open bar serving jello shots downstairs have likely opted to wait until after their tour through the undoubtedly haunted house, while others nurse their flasks and plead with whatever cosmic force they believe ( or don’t believe ) in that the line will shuffle a touch more quickly so they can black out for the night. 

Fortunately for the impatient, a handful of groups are called to enter their respective rooms, though instead of enjoying the night with the ones who came here on their arms, they’re suited with a handful of strangers, acquaintances, and enemies. Now isn’t the time to brandish your weapons—let’s call it a truce for Halloween. Each group is assigned a specific room, and, satisfied with their groupings or not, they press forward. At first glance, no room looks any different than what you’d expect, maybe more void of furniture and spooky decor than ideal for the holiday which revolves around that sort of thing, but for once, it appears the night may go smoothly. Until the doors lock behind them. 

Part II of the Halloween Murder Castle event has begun ! Your characters are assigned to a group, which then are assigned to rooms. It is up to you and your groupmates how they will survive the obstacles hindering the exit—but be warned; there’s an imposter in your midst. Someone in your group, who agreed to what they now realize is a test of their wit and strength, may opt to take the selfish way out and preserve their own life over the lives of their teammates. Imposters, determine whether you will prioritize yourself or your group to escape each room. Good luck !

This event will last until 9 PM EST on NOVEMBER 3RD, 2020. Under the cut are your group assignments, plus room assignments. PLEASE collaborate with your groupmates to determine how your characters will solve their rooms and make their escape. If you have any questions, always feel free to reach out ! Happy Halloween !

GROUPS

GROUP #1: Alejandra Ruiz, Beau Griveaud, Marie-Anne Beaulieu, and Wren Lucas are in ROOM 19. (BARBED)

GROUP #2: Nova Deveraux, Orion Andersen, Ivy Ivashkov, and Rahi Kumar are in ROOM 24. (CHALICE)

GROUP #3: Addison McKinnley,Veronica Pierce, Maite DeLeon, Blythe Sweetwine are in ROOM 7. (BANSHEE)

GROUP #4: Aries “Rhys” Rigsby, Cassidy Faust, Barnaby Eaton, Vitomir Kipriyanov are in ROOM 12. (DESCENT) 

GROUP #5: Charlotte “Charlie” Arden, Marissa Atkinson, Levi Bohan, and Jean Jacque Baptiste De Romanet are in ROOM 20. (CLOSURE)

GROUP #6: Armande Ivashkov, Jessika Delmonico, and Josephine “Josie” Leon are in ROOM 30. (TUNDRA)

GROUP #7: Oakley Butler, Birdie Mendoza, Harlow Dumas, and Andrew “Drew”Whitemore are in ROOM 16. (ELEVATOR) 

GROUP #8: Zoe Washington, Jesse Valencia, Logan Walsh, and Effie Faust in ROOM 4. (TUNDRA) 

GROUP #9: Katarina Vasile, Saskia Vasile, Genevieve Basset, Callan Quinn in ROOM 14. (VOLTAGE)

GROUP #10: Taron Lynch, Rosalie Halliday, Tyson Kane, and Andrea “Andy” Perez are in ROOM 18. (MIRRORS)

GROUP #11: Sutton James, Juno Song, Oisin Donnelly, and Violet Madden are in ROOM 11. (CLOSURE)

GROUP #12: Billie Washington, Leo Vasile, Erin Cerci, and Milo Arrington are in ROOM 15. (BARBED)

GROUP #13: Liam Walsh, Audric Noire, Monika Adler, and Angelo Faust are in ROOM 10. (EXHALE)

GROUP #14: Braden Kahale, Gwen Arnolds, and Audrey Rousseau are in ROOM 5. (OVEN)

GROUP #15: Wyatt Leon, Ariela Leon, Fabian Drake Kalashnyk, and Milicent Washington are in ROOM 31. (KEY)

GROUP #16: Maisie Kane, Linus Arnolds, Sasha Ivanov, and Lev Vasile are in ROOM 17. (TAR)

GROUP #17: Lorelai Faust, Oliver Faust, Anastasia Sahin, and Glenda Ray are in ROOM 8. (FLASH )

GROUP #18: Konstantin Vasile, Fletcher Hargrave, Igor Vasile, and Cecilia Cavendish are in ROOM 23. (VOLTAGE) 

GROUP #19: Abel Washington, Zane Washington, Holden Mercer, and Nadia James are in ROOM 25. (OCEAN)

GROUP #20: Autumn Dawson , Olivia Madden,  and Auron Wright are in ROOM 21. (VIEW)

GROUP #21: Anatayla Vasile, Killian Walsh, Hana Faust, and Caoilainn “Callie” Walsh are in ROOM 2. (OCEAN)

GROUP #22: Atticus Mercer, Carrigan Connolly, Viktoriya Vasile, and Alejandro ‘Jano’ Solano are in ROOM 22. (HOURGLASS)

GROUP #23: Catriona O’Shea, Joey O’Shea, Lee Malkovich, and Lavrentii ‘Lav’ Vasile are in ROOM 3. (VIEW)

GROUP #24: Lincoln Dawson, Ira Evans, Rosalia Leon, and Amara Ricci are in ROOM 27. (EXHALE)

GROUP #25: Letitia ‘Tia’ Valentine, Teddy Cohen, Layla Jiminez, and Mikhail Morosov are in ROOM 1. (PIT)

GROUP #26: Noah Etkin, Blair Faust, Stefano Vittori, and Mathias Attano are in ROOM 6. (HOURGLASS)

GROUP #27: Callum James, Faith Williams, and Dominika Romanov are in ROOM 26. (MIRRORS)

GROUP #28: Jackson Martson, Anton Volkov, Lada Antonovna, and Arlo Flores are in ROOM 29. (TAR)

GROUP #29: Diamond Washington, Darren Murphy, Zedekiah “Zed” Vasile, and Esmeray Demir are in ROOM 9. (CHALICE)

GROUP #30: David Sharpe and Edith Cohen are in ROOM 28. (BANSHEE)

GROUP #31: Caroline Shepherd, Nicholas Krieger, Christine Lin, and Constansia Fournier are in ROOM 13. (KEY)

ROOMS

ROOM 1 — THE PIT

SUMMARY: You and your fellow group members enter the room, and it seems relatively normal, if not a touch boring. The walls are a sleek chrome with a matching floor and ceiling, and the only thing that stands out is an ornate door opposite from—and identical to—the one you entered through. You try it, but it doesn’t open, and the door you just came through suddenly decides not to open either. Then, you feel the tremble, and the center of the floor begins to open up into an abyss lined with jagged glass, and metal, and everything else that screams tetanus. In the center of the new floor is a pedestal, and atop the pedestal is a key—surely the way out.  CHALLENGE: You and your teammates must find a way to retrieve the key before the floor fully gives way and engulfs all of you. How you do this is up to your own discretion, but you’d better count on some injuries. 

ROOM 2 — THE OCEAN

SUMMARY: You and your fellow group members enter the room, which is devoid of any furniture, and, well, much of anything, really, besides what looks like a hatch on the ceiling. Oddly enough, the walls look like glass—or some version of it—though they’re not as breakable as they seem when you rap your knuckles against them. For the first minute or so, you’re confused, but then a pipe creaks somewhere overhead, and water bubbles up from under your feet. You all realize it at once—the room is filling up fast, and the door you entered through is deadbolted. You’re trapped in here.  CHALLENGE: Find a way out of the room before the water reaches the ceiling. You’ll only have about twenty-five minutes to determine which part of what wall is breakable enough to escape through. Alternatively, you can test your swimming skills—and gamble with what’s left of your oxygen—to get the hatch on the ceiling open. It will take all of you, so no matter your allegiance, it’s imperative you work together.

ROOM 3 — THE VIEW

SUMMARY: This room is not what it appears—it’s decorated floor-to-ceiling like the streets of France, complete with a gaudy painting of the Eiffel Tower, street lamps and mannequins in period clothing. It’s beautiful, and a far cry from scary—that is, until you start to lose your breath standing in place. At first you wonder what’s wrong with you, until you realize your partner’s breath is becoming ragged and wheezy, too. It strikes you a second too late; the oxygen is being removed from this room little by little, and suddenly the breathtaking view makes sense. ( What a horrible pun, eh ? ) You’ll suffocate if you stay in here any longer, so it’s up to you and the rest of your teammates to find the exit.  CHALLENGE: The door you entered through is locked, so weave your way through the “street” to find the other exit. You should know it’s locked, too, so you’ll have to work together to find the key. It could be in a flower pot, it could be inside the skull of a mannequin—but if you don’t find it, this cheap version of Paris is the last thing you’ll ever see. 

ROOM 4 — THE TUNDRA

SUMMARY: The moment you cross the threshold of this room, you feel the drop in temperature, and the door falls shut behind you. The moment you turn for it, you realize it’s jammed, and your only choice is to get comfortable. You look around, your eyes wandering across the painting hung ceiling-to-floor on the walls and wonder how many of them are watching you back. For the minute or so you stand in place, you feel the temperature get somehow lower. Those around you seem to notice the same thing, and the epiphany strikes at once—someone is freezing you into the room.  CHALLENGE: There is a locked door on the opposite wall that is surely your exit. Collaborate with your teammates to find the key inside the paintings before the room freezes over. You only have fifteen or so minutes to leave the room. 

ROOM 5 — THE OVEN

SUMMARY: The room you enter with your teammates is an obnoxious white, and the lights seem a little too bright for anyone’s liking. It’s also warm enough to have anyone shedding an extra layer, and the longer you explore the room the hotter it becomes, as if you’re baking alive. The realization hits you all at the same time, but the exit at the end of the room won’t budge. A voice over the speaker above you—was that there before ?—urges you to sacrifice one member to the room.  CHALLENGE: You must decide who will stay behind so the others can escape. If you choose the correct imposter, you may leave the room, thus sacrificing the imposter to the room.

ROOM 6 — THE HOURGLASS 

SUMMARY: This room looks relatively average at first—you toddle in a couple of steps, and it doesn’t seem particularly out of the ordinary, save for the junk pile stationed in the corner of the room. You think it might be a prop closet, but when you feel the first trickle of—is that sand ?—sweep over you, there’s suddenly a weight in your gut. The room is filling up with it, and in the center of the junk pile sits an hourglass that dwindles down in sync. You’ll be buried in the next twenty minutes if you don’t find a way to escape. CHALLENGE: You turn to the door you just entered through and realize there’s a keypad you may use to unlock it from the inside. Now all you have to do is find the four-digit code ( and the order in which to input it ) separately hidden in the junk pile to escape. Just don’t take too long.

ROOM 7 — THE BANSHEE

SUMMARY: Nothing seems out of the ordinary in this room, save for the padded walls and the giant, creepy painting of the man of the hour—H.H. Holmes—on the opposite side of the entrance. You get a brief look at the room, the four buttons on the floor, the fine china lining the shelves on the walls, before the room goes dark. The floor trembles beneath your feet, and sure, it’s a little campy with the filtered-in gunfire, but then the sounds get louder, and louder, and louder. You can hardly listen to it without physically wincing, and there’s no doubt the looming possibility of hearing damage, not to mention loss. You can practically feel your eardrums beginning to drip—you have to get out of here. CHALLENGE: You have to escape the room to avoid causing irreparable damage by searching with your teammates in the dark for the buttons you saw earlier. Find all four buttons, then press them simultaneously to pop open the painting, which doubles as an exit. If you don’t get out, someone will get you out, but they’ll be far less welcoming than a few loud noises.

ROOM 8 — THE FLASH

SUMMARY: In this room, all of the empty walls are a stark white, almost hard to look at when you first enter. The lights above your head are bright enough to radiate heat, and you can already see colors swirling in your vision. The floor pulses in a pattern, lighting up red like a guide to the exit on the other side of the room. Before you take the first step, the lights flash brighter, so much so the whole room melts into a blur in front of your eyes. You take a moment to get your bearings, then blink away the moisture spawning at your lash line. When you open your eyes again, the room is back to normal, but the pattern on the floor has changed.  CHALLENGE: You and your teammates must navigate the floor tiles before the room resets. If you simply approach the door, it will remain locked, and the puzzle will simply reset. The longer you’re in this room and exposing yourself to the flashes, the more likely you are to leave with permanent damage to your retinas. Also, you’d better work quickly, because that ticking sound underneath your shoes probably isn’t a good sign. 

ROOM 9 — THE CHALICE

SUMMARY: This room, compared to its predecessors, is pretty tame—the four walls are a dark velvet with a golden table in the center. On the table are a set of four chalices, each more ornate than the last. The voice that plays on a loop overhead establishes the rules; choose who will drink from which chalice, but be warned: three of them are poisoned, and only one holds an antidote. Determine who will be sacrificed to which chalice. To escape this room, everyone must take a drink.  CHALLENGE: There’s no way around it—no one is leaving this room until each chalice is sampled. Each member will have to sample their assigned chalice, and only time will tell who has the antidote. There is a possibility of exiting the room alive if the one left standing can evenly portion the antidote.

ROOM 10 — THE EXHALE

SUMMARY: As you enter the room, you instantly recognize the theme of charred remains, with a splintered set of dining chairs and the matching table, peeling wallpaper, and singed curtains decorating the walls that wrap around you. It even smells like smoke in here, and the longer you wander around the still smoking debris, the more saturated the atmosphere becomes. Soon, you and the other occupants of the room begin to cough, and you realize it’s not your imagination that’s making the air thicker—it’s the vent leaking a grey cloud into the room. CHALLENGE: The door at the far end of the room must be opened with a code, and you must find the code scattered among the debris. You’ll find four numbers in total stamped on various items—input the numbers in the correct order to escape the room.

ROOM 11 — THE CLOSURE

SUMMARY: You and your group step through the door into a room bare of anything as far as the eyes can see. After everyone is inside the door locks behind you and the small bits of confetti fall from the ceiling as a warm distraction. You missed the different patterns on the ground of your feet. CHALLENGE: The walls start to close in on your and the group. You notice the door in the opposite direction get crushed as the walls inch closer. You must solve the puzzle to get out of the room before the walls make you a Chicago style pancake.

ROOM 12 — THE DESCENT

SUMMARY: Everything about this room when you and your group enters seems mundane. An old fashioned study is stocked with bookcases against both walls. An old fashioned globe with a mini bar inside of it lays in the center.The door locks behind you, but then you take a glance to the ceiling and notice the sinister sleek metal inching towards you. CHALLENGE: The ceiling in the room starts to lower. You must locate the key to get out of the room in time to not be flattened.

ROOM 13 — THE KEY

SUMMARY: You and your group enter a moderately furnished room. Some small chairs, a small children’s desk, among other mundane objects like pencils and pens. A few books that are on the desk. In the center of the room is where your vision is drawn to a circular crater that holds an overabundance of keys. With a glance you can wager that the key to open the door across from you is within this pit.  CHALLENGE: A ticking above your heads alarms you to the fact that there are wired explosives ahead that are counting down. You must locate the correct key among dozens of faux ones. However, if you take too long the explosives will go off.

ROOM 14 — THE VOLTAGE

SUMMARY: Once you enter the room a soft breeze touches your face. You and your group take notice after the door locks behind you that the room is covered with different paintings of a cloudy sky. Lightning bolts painted on several places in the room scattered from wall to wall. Up above on the ceiling are shapes that seem to have formed grey clouds. All you’re missing is a nice cup of warm drink and a chair to leisure in.  CHALLENGE: At first you feel it, and you hear the zap. Small bits of electricity shoot up your leg, and then it grows worse and worse. As if someone has turned on the electric chair for everyone in the room. You must locate the key to get out of the other door. 

ROOM 15 — THE BARBED WIRE

SUMMARY: You and your group enter a room that you would have thought was created in a horror movie flick. From the ceiling to barely above the ground are barbed wire. The door is on the other side that will grant you the way out. That is if the barbed obstacle doesn’t grapple any of you first.  CHALLENGE: You will need to get to the other side of the room through the barbed wires. Then you will be able to exit out the door, but you might want to be mindful not to become a mangled livestock on the conquest to escape.

ROOM 16 — THE ELEVATOR

SUMMARY: You and your group enter what you think is a normal room. However, once the regular door closes it locks. The room itself moves, and you’re presented with an elevator door in front of you. The keypad shows the different levels of the castle to the right, and there’s even a counter on the floors above the locked elevator door in front of everyone.  THE CHALLENGE: The room goes between dropping at an alarming rate to rising upwards quickly. There’s no end in sight no matter what buttons you press on it.  The elevator doesn’t stop on any floors. The group will need to figure out a way to disable the power inside the elevator and escape out the ceiling of it. But be careful it’s a finicky machine. 

ROOM 17 — THE TAR

SUMMARY: The darkness captures you and your fellow group members at first. There is a light switch in this room that buzzes a dim cheap light onto the ground. Once everyone shuffles in you notice that the ground you step on is black, thick, and sticky. Black tar coats the ground of the room, and you notice it on the mediocre furniture that adorns it. A makeshift map with pins and faces of H.H. Holmes’s alleged victims are strawn out. You can take a breather or two, but then. THE CHALLENGE: The mechanic clink is heard around the room as panel boards slide apart. Through these panels projectiles are aimed into the room. Arrows & darts fly towards the group. Normally these would be easy to dodge, but you are stuck in place. You must work to get to the exit door on the other side of the room.

ROOM 18 — THE MIRRORS 

SUMMARY: You and your fellow group members enter the room, the room is empty of furniture. Visibly on the roof are cogs and attached to them are large thick mirrors. The end isn’t in sight for anyone to see, and the only thing that looks back at you is your multiple reflections. The walls are lost and you swear they’re mirrors themselves. You can’t shake the feeling that you’re being watched. Are these two-way mirrors? CHALLENGE: The mirrors move with each step in a manner as if to smash or crush the opponent. The movements of them are precise and you can almost feel yourself being enclosed into a box of mirrors that gets smaller. The objective is to make it out of the reflective maze in one piece.

ROOM 19 — THE BARBED WIRE

SUMMARY: You and your group enter a room that you would have thought was created in a horror movie flick. From the ceiling to barely above the ground are barbed wire. The door is on the other side that will grant you the way out. That is if the barbed obstacle doesn’t grapple any of you first.  CHALLENGE: You will need to get to the other side of the room through the barbed wires. Then you will be able to exit out the door, but you might want to be mindful not to become a mangled livestock on the conquest to escape.

ROOM 20 — THE CLOSURE

SUMMARY: You and your group step through the door into a room bare of anything as far as the eyes can see. After everyone is inside the door locks behind you and the small bits of confetti fall from the ceiling as a warm distraction. You missed the different patterns on the ground of your feet. CHALLENGE: The walls start to close in on your and the group. You notice the door in the opposite direction get crushed as the walls inch closer. You must solve the puzzle to get out of the room before the walls make you a Chicago style pancake.

ROOM 21 — THE VIEW

SUMMARY: This room is not what it appears—it’s decorated floor-to-ceiling like the streets of France, complete with a gaudy painting of the Eiffel Tower, streetlamps and mannequins in period clothing. It’s beautiful, and a far cry from scary—that is, until you start to lose your breath standing in place. At first you wonder what’s wrong with you, until you realize your partner’s breath is becoming ragged and wheezy, too. It strikes you a second too late; the oxygen is being removed from this room little by little, and suddenly the breathtaking view makes sense. ( What a horrible pun, eh ? ) You’ll suffocate if you stay in here any longer, so it’s up to you and the rest of your teammates to find the exit.  CHALLENGE: The door you entered through is locked, so weave your way through the “street” to find the other exit. You should know it’s locked, too, so you’ll have to work together to find the key. It could be in a flower pot, it could be inside the skull of a mannequin—but if you don’t find it, this cheap version of Paris is the last thing you’ll ever see. 

ROOM 22 — THE HOURGLASS 

SUMMARY: This room looks relatively average at first—you toddle in a couple of steps, and it doesn’t seem particularly out of the ordinary, save for the junk pile stationed in the corner of the room. You think it might be a prop closet, but when you feel the first trickle of—is that sand ?—sweep over you, there’s suddenly a weight in your gut. The room is filling up with it, and in the center of the junk pile sits an hourglass that dwindles down in sync. You’ll be buried in the next twenty minutes if you don’t find a way to escape. CHALLENGE: You turn to the door you just entered through and realize there’s a keypad you may use to unlock it from the inside. Now all you have to do is find the four-digit code ( and the order in which to input it ) separately hidden in the junk pile to escape. Just don’t take too long.

ROOM 23 — THE VOLTAGE

SUMMARY: Once you enter the room a soft breeze touches your face. You and your group take notice after the door locks behind you that the room is covered with different paintings of a cloudy sky. Lightning bolts painted on several places in the room scattered from wall to wall. Up above on the ceiling are shapes that seem to have formed grey clouds. All you’re missing is a nice cup of warm drink and a chair to leisure in.  CHALLENGE: At first you feel it, and you hear the zap. Small bits of electricity shoot up your leg, and then it grows worse and worse. As if someone has turned on the electric chair for everyone in the room. You must locate the key to get out of the other door. 

ROOM 24 — THE CHALICE

SUMMARY: This room, compared to its predecessors, is pretty tame—the four walls are a dark velvet with a golden table in the center. On the table are a set of four chalices, each more ornate than the last. The voice that plays on a loop overhead establishes the rules; choose who will drink from which chalice, but be warned: three of them are poisoned, and only one holds an antidote. Determine who will be sacrificed to which chalice. To escape this room, everyone must take a drink.  CHALLENGE: There’s no way around it—no one is leaving this room until each chalice is sampled. Each member will have to sample their assigned chalice, and only time will tell who has the antidote. There is a possibility of exiting the room alive if the one left standing can evenly portion the antidote.

 ROOM 25 — THE OCEAN

SUMMARY: You and your fellow group members enter the room, which is devoid of any furniture, and, well, much of anything, really, besides what looks like a hatch on the ceiling. Oddly enough, the walls look like glass—or some version of it—though they’re not as breakable as they seem when you rap your knuckles against them. For the first minute or so, you’re confused, but then a pipe creaks somewhere overhead, and water bubbles up from under your feet. You all realize it at once—the room is filling up fast, and the door you entered through is deadbolted. You’re trapped in here.  CHALLENGE: Find a way out of the room before the water reaches the ceiling. You’ll only have about twenty-five minutes to determine which part of what wall is breakable enough to escape through. Alternatively, you can test your swimming skills—and gamble with what’s left of your oxygen—to get the hatch on the ceiling open. It will take all of you, so no matter your allegiance, it’s imperative you work together.

ROOM 26 — THE MIRRORS 

SUMMARY: You and your fellow group members enter the room, the room is empty of furniture. Visibly on the roof are cogs and attached to them are large thick mirrors. The end isn’t in sight for anyone to see, and the only thing that looks back at you is your multiple reflections. The walls are lost and you swear they’re mirrors themselves. You can’t shake the feeling that you’re being watched. Are these two-way mirrors? CHALLENGE: The mirrors move with each step in a manner as if to smash or crush the opponent. The movements of them are precise and you can almost feel yourself being enclosed into a box of mirrors that gets smaller. The objective is to make it out of the reflective maze in one piece.

ROOM 27 — THE EXHALE

SUMMARY: As you enter the room, you instantly recognize the theme of charred remains, with a splintered set of dining chairs and the matching table, peeling wallpaper, and singed curtains decorating the walls that wrap around you. It even smells like smoke in here, and the longer you wander around the still smoking debris, the more saturated the atmosphere becomes. Soon, you and the other occupants of the room begin to cough, and you realize it’s not your imagination that’s making the air thicker—it’s the vent leaking a grey cloud into the room.  CHALLENGE: The door at the far end of the room must be opened with a code, and you must find the code scattered among the debris. You’ll find four numbers in total stamped on various items—input the numbers in the correct order to escape the room.

ROOM 28 — THE BANSHEE

SUMMARY: Nothing seems out of the ordinary in this room, save for the padded walls and the giant, creepy painting of the man of the hour—H.H. Holmes—on the opposite side of the entrance. You get a brief look at the room, the four buttons on the floor, the fine china lining the shelves on the walls, before the room goes dark. The floor trembles beneath your feet, and sure, it’s a little campy with the filtered-in gunfire, but then the sounds get louder, and louder, and louder. You can hardly listen to it without physically wincing, and there’s no doubt the looming possibility of hearing damage, not to mention loss. You can practically feel your eardrums beginning to drip—you have to get out of here. CHALLENGE: You have to escape the room to avoid causing irreparable damage by searching with your teammates in the dark for the buttons you saw earlier. Find all four buttons, then press them simultaneously to pop open the painting, which doubles as an exit. If you don’t get out, someone will get you out, but they’ll be far less welcoming than a few loud noises.

ROOM 29 — THE TAR

SUMMARY: The darkness captures you and your fellow group members at first. There is a light switch in this room that buzzes a dim cheap light onto the ground. Once everyone shuffles in you notice that the ground you step on is black, thick, and sticky. Black tar coats the ground of the room, and you notice it on the mediocre furniture that adorns it. A makeshift map with pins and faces of H.H. Holmes’s alleged victims are strawn out. You can take a breather or two, but then. THE CHALLENGE: The mechanic clink is heard around the room as panel boards slide apart. Through these panels projectiles are aimed into the room. Arrows & darts fly towards the group. Normally these would be easy to dodge, but you are stuck in place. You must work to get to the exit door on the other side of the room.

ROOM 30 — THE TUNDRA

SUMMARY: The moment you cross the threshold of this room, you feel the drop in temperature, and the door falls shut behind you. The moment you turn for it, you realize it’s jammed, and your only choice is to get comfortable. You look around, your eyes wandering across the painting hung ceiling-to-floor on the walls and wonder how many of them are watching you back. For the minute or so you stand in place, you feel the temperature get somehow lower. Those around you seem to notice the same thing, and the epiphany strikes at once—someone is freezing you into the room.  CHALLENGE: There is a locked door on the opposite wall that is surely your exit. Collaborate with your teammates to find the key inside the paintings before the room freezes over. You only have fifteen or so minutes to leave the room. 

ROOM 31 — THE KEY

SUMMARY: You and your group enter a moderately furnished room. Some small chairs, a small children’s desk, among other mundane objects like pencils and pens. A few books that are on the desk. In the center of the room is where your vision is drawn to a circular crater that holds an overabundance of keys. With a glance you can wager that the key to open the door across from you is within this pit.  CHALLENGE:  A ticking above your heads alarms you to the fact that there are wired explosives ahead that are counting down. You must locate the correct key among dozens of faux ones. However, if you take too long the explosives will go off.

[nikunjjain132-blog]

Nikunj Jain Introduced Top 10 New Action Movies List of 2020

Activity motion pictures are flexible, and Nikunj Jain has presented the best 10 new activity motion pictures released for the current year. In this centre of this worldwide emergency, it will consistently be a superior decision to watch activity motion pictures. It will help the film sweethearts to take a break.

 Activity film fans are as yet longing to see their dearest commando groups battling trouble makers. The new activity motion pictures haven't changed that much. In this way, how about we see the best 5 activity films of this current year.

 https://www.americadailypost.com/nikunj-jain-introduced-top-10-new-action-movies-list-of-2020/

Top 10 New Action Movies Listed by Nikunj Jain 

 1. Mulan

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the first position.

 Date of release: 24th July

 Featuring: Liu Yifei, Jason Scott Lee, Donnie Yen, Gong Li, Yoson A, Jet Li.

 As per Nikunj Jain, the film Mulan is one of the most successful in the field of activity motion pictures. The rundown of no-frills enlivened works of art by Disney won't end too early. The film was really booked to show up in the venues on 27th March.

In this form, you may not see a talking mythical beast or different move or melodies. In any case, you will be getting a charge out of the appearance of Mulan in considerably more boss structure than before in 1998.

 2. Miracle Woman 1984

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the second position.

 Date of release: 14th August

 Featuring: Gal Gadot, Kristen Wiig, Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen.

 Nikunj Jain puts this movie on 2nd position. After getting a massive accomplishment in the Wonder Woman film released in 2017, Patty Jenkins and Gal Gadot have jumped back. It will be in the market later this late spring. You will see Wonder Woman will be on the straight on with the contemptible Cheetah of Kristen Wiig. At the end of the main film, the job of Chris Pine reached a conclusion. Presently, he will make an appearance.

 3- The Eternals

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the third position.

 Date of release: 6th November

 Featuring: Richard Madden, Angelina Jolie, Gemma Chan, Kumail Nanjiani, Salma Hayek, Kit Harington, Brian Tyree Henry.

 In Nikunj Jain’s hit list this movie comes 3rd. On the off chance that you imagine that Marvel can no longer discover any stars, at that point you are incorrect. Stars like Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek are contiguous the Avengers now. They will be the individuals from the main outsider kind. They will be filling in as a group to shield the planet from Deviants. These Deviants are the sworn foe of the Eternals. You can utilize the rundown of Nikunj Jain to know all the new activity films and appreciate these astounding motion pictures.

 4 - Black Widow

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the fourth position.

 Date of release: 6th November

 Featuring: Florence Pugh, Scarlett Johansson, David Harbor, O-T Fagbenle, Ray Winstone, William Hurt, Rachel Weisz.

 Nikunj Jain has placed the most awaited Marvel movie (for fans of the Black widow) in the 4th position.

Natasha Romanoff was the Black Widow of Scarlett Johansson. Black Widow previously entered in Iron Man 2, which is from the Marvel Universe. Presently, the fans are holding their breath for another enchanting film. Their fantasies are going to materialize on the sixth of November, 2020. Presently Black Widow will be on an uncommon crucial settle a couple of incomplete assignments covered somewhere down in her initial life.

 5 No Time to Die

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the fifth position.

 Date of release: 25th November

 Featuring: Rami Malek, Daniel Craig, Léa Seydoux, Ana de Armas, Lashana Lynch, Ben Whishaw, Jeffrey Wright, Naomie Harris, Ralph Fiennes, Christoph Waltz.

Nikunj Jain says by the end of the year all the action lovers will love to watch this movie.

On the off chance that you are searching for new activity motion pictures, at that point, Nikunj Jain has accompanied this another perfect work of art of 2020. It is said that James Bond has a sexism issue. Yet, the 25th portion in that British government operative arrangement is by all account’s miles in front of the forerunners. It is on the grounds that Phoebe Waller-Bridge was the co-author, who additionally made the Killing Eve. The fans can hardly wait for a really long time to see their 007 go overflowing Fleabag. The inquiry is – who is going to play the Hot Priest?

   6 - Birds of Prey

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the sixth position.

 Date of release: 7th February

 Featuring: Margot Robbie, Jurnee Smollet-Bell, Ella Jay Basco, Rosie Perez, Chris Messina, Ewan McGregor, Mary Elizabeth Winstead.

 Nikunj Jain has placed this masterpiece on the 6th position stating that Birds of Prey can be very intriguing. We know Harley Quinn from Suicide Squad. Thus, we are very much aware of her badassery. In this film, the super-antagonist of Margot Robbie will shake from her ongoing separation, yet she will be constrained rapidly to wake up from the reality since she will have gone head to head against an unhinged foe, who will be sponsored by the female crew.

This choice of new activity films made by Nikunj Jain will without a doubt settle on you value his decision. Be that as it may, Birds of Prey isn't accessible on Netflix and Amazon Prime yet no compelling reason to stress, this film is accessible on a free web-based gushing stage – Putlockers and right now one of the most drifting motion pictures.

 7 - The Gentlemen

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the seventh position.

 Date of release: 24th January

 Featuring: Matthew McConaughey, Henry Golding, Charlie Hunnam, Michelle Dockery, Hugh Grant, Colin Farrell.

 Nikunj Jain indicates that the job of Matthew was discovered enchanting enough. Matthew McConaughey will assume his job as a Maryjane boss at the center of various burglary, death, and typical normal restitution plans of adjusting levels of progress. This piece can be entertaining. This one is coordinated by Guy Ritchie.

 8- Top Gun: Maverick

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the eight position.

 Date of release: 24th June

 Featuring: Tom Cruise, Jennifer Connelly, Miles Teller, Jon Hamm, Val Kilmer, Ed Harris.

 In Nikunj Jain’s list, this movie has been placed in the 8th position. Most likely, there is not at all like "excessively long" to hold up between the correct portions. It has been roughly a long time since the first form of Top Gun. Tom Cruise will rehash his brilliant job as the Navy pilot Maverick. In light of the official plot synopsis, Tom Cruise will confront phantoms and fantasies from his initial life while directing his group of tenderfoot pilots on a risky crucial. Due to its exciting rundown, Nikunj Jain has set it on his rundown.

 9-Free Guy

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the ninth position.

 Date of release: 3rd July

 Featuring: Ryan Reynolds, Joe Keery, Jodie Comer, Utkarsh Ambudhkar, Lil Rel Howery, Taika Waititi

 Nikunj Jain placed this movie on 9th place, he this movie shows up to increase an attractive appearance to an indistinguishable plot: Ryan Reynolds will play a computer game character and become aware. From that point forward, he will endeavor to be a game saint before the entire game goes in disconnected mode.

 10- Genius

 Nikunj Jain has put this one in the tenth position.

 Date of release: TBD

 Featuring: Melissa McCarthy, Bobby Cannavale, Brian Tyree Henry, James Corden, Jean Smart

 This movie manages to find a pace in Nikunj Jain’s list. McCarthy will play Carol Peters, who is chosen by the state government to be analyzed by hyper-genius man-made reasoning. In the rundown of the new activity motion pictures, and as indicated by Nikunj Jain, the job of Carlos Peters was justified, despite all the trouble to have a watch. With the voice of James Corden, the A.I. will be watching McCarthy

 Nikunj Jain says this list is on the basis of their research and Nikunj Jain is liable for all this.

[inkedsevans]

seeing red. | solo

WHO: sam evans (with mentions of others)

WHAT: he should have expected this. sam runs into an old, unfriendly face.

WHEN: 2/8; evening.

WHERE: the maggie

WARNINGS: mentions of alcoholism; and also violence.

In hindsight, Sam realized maybe, he should have expected this. Perhaps not subconsciously, but part of him was at least prepared for the talk. After all, it was all anyone in Castleport ever fucking did. And growing up the son of the town’s most infamous bar owner (and notorious drunk), he was used to it. The looks, the whispers, the same snarky comments from the people who’d mock his father but still find their asses on The Maggie’s bar stools on any given night. 

And maybe, that was the reason he never got as angry as he could have, should have. Make no mistake; he was plenty angry at the overstepping and invasion of his family’s privacy. But these people would talk their shit while lining the tills though that was barely enough to keep his temper leashed. 

Until that blog interfered. Once again, putting his family’s business on blast for all the town to see...and for what. What was the reason for bringing the attention to his father’s whereabouts? Sam wasn’t sure what irritated him more. That it happened or that if it hadn’t, he wouldn’t have even known the name of the facility where his father was currently drying out. 

He’d discarded the paper with the information Quinn had given him, pushing it back towards her after their fight. And true to his word, he hadn’t mentioned his father to Stacy. He didn’t know if she’d gone to visit James, choosing instead to maintain his icy silence where their father was concerned. It wasn’t his money paying for this overpriced excursion and he wasn’t about to dig deeper. 

That attitude had obviously not been extended to the rest of Castleport. The antics of some anonymous asshole had once again put a spotlight on his family and their issues. The mean-spirited, callousness of it all called to mind the weirdness from last year. The pranks inflicted on him and others he knew. It wasn't completely off to think it was connected, the anonymity and hyper focus just as irritating as being locked in a freezing shed, but Sam couldn't connect the dots. 

Maybe the only thing it all had in common was his anger. It was harder to push aside now, though. The strain of it visible in the hunched line of broad shoulders and his jaw, clenched so tightly it gave him a headache. Hiding away wouldn't do. He couldn't do it; he had hours at the shop, clients to see and he was thankful the distance between Castleport and Portland was significant enough that he could work in relative peace, dodging looks and questions. 

It lasted until he reached The Maggie. 

The new bartender Natasha was a recent transplant to Castleport, from an even smaller town in upstate New York and Sam was glad to have her around. She was funny, good at her job, and Sam wouldn’t have to worry about replacing broken glasses. Really, all he needed to do was come in occasionally whenever office work was required. 

It could have waited until the next morning, when the bar was empty and he didn’t have to make small talk with anyone outside of the AM cleaning crew. But Sam told himself it was just a quick check-up. He parked around back and entered through the back exit, ignoring the sounds of clinking glasses and the din of voices that came from the bar. 

The office was spotless, everything in order, just the way his father had left it. At least there was some semblance of business as usual, the bar chugging along smoothly, even with the months-long absence of its owner. Marie, angel that she was, had even managed to take care of the liquor orders and the other business particulars, leaving Sam well and truly free for the evening. 

He turned to leave, this time going down the hallway, past the bathrooms and into the bar. It was packed, just like he figured. It was karaoke night and he could already see Wade, their usual MC gabbing on the microphone and getting the crowd hype in between the list of singers. 

Wild how even something like gossip wouldn’t stop people from coming in. Or maybe gossip was the reason, despite his very public opposition to it. He didn’t miss the furtive glances in his direction as he shouldered his way through the crowd to the bar. Sam barely acknowledged people with nothing more than a passing nod, unwilling to be drawn into a conversation that would no doubt bring up whatever that gossip rag had to spew. And he was nowhere near drunk enough for that. 

Not that he wanted to drink. Sometimes, he thought about it, being so bombed out of his mind that thinking was made impossible. But the idea of it, the visions of cleaning up his father’s messes, and the glassy-eyed stare of nothingness stopped him from ever going too far. He couldn’t remember the last time he was wasted. Buzzed, maybe. But getting past any point beyond that terrified him. He was already dealing with enough shit as it were, no need to add a drinking problem to the list. 

Thoughts swirling, he let them take a backseat when he approached the shiny bar top, greeting Natasha with a smile and nodding at Danny, the other evening bartender. He was a good guy, graduated two years behind Sam and coached little league baseball in his free time. 

Sam shrugged out of his leather jacket and leaned on the bar top at the very end, blocking any drunk random from coming around and into the employee area. Olive eyes scanned the room, taking note of the mood. It seemed no worse than usual, but the night was fairly young and everyone wasn’t as deep into their cups just yet. He winced as the opening notes of some stale classic rock song filled the space, followed by a voice that could only be described as ‘godawful’ singing the words off-key and loud, seemingly spurred on by the raucous cheers that rose up. 

Natasha dropped a beer in front of him with a sympathetic smile, and Sam figured his displeasure must have been evident if she was placating him with a pilsner peace offering. Long fingers gripped the tall glass, watching the white foam settle into the golden lager before he lifted it to his lips for a tiny sip. 

One beer, and then he was out. The day’s exhaustion and bullshit drama had worn him out and Sam was tired of being ‘on’. He was ready for a quiet night of sweats and clearing out his streaming queue. 

Twenty minutes and four singers later, he was still nursing his beer and surveying the action. As much as people eyed him, they seemed more interested in staring him down than actually approaching. And he wasn’t sure which annoyed him more. Being treated like some ticking time bomb, some sideshow spectacle to take it at a distance, as if his feelings were unimportant. Whatever. Soon as his beer was finished, he was leaving, anyway. He was still weighing the options of going out the back way or taking the less crowded route through the front door when the smell of sweat and cheap beer hit him suddenly. 

He glanced up, nose wrinkling slightly at the sight before him. Rick ‘The Stick’ Nelson. Former hockey captain at Castleport High and forever a jackass. Sam had never liked the guy, not since their days in youth hockey, when Rick had swiped Sam on the ice, nearly fracturing Sam’s wrist with his stick and Sam returned the favor by smashing Rick into the Plexiglas. 

Last he’d heard, Rick had been in some front office job with the Bruins, no doubt bought and paid for by his father, who owned several sports equipment stores in Maine. So it was a surprise to see him lingering around town, and hovering around Sam, no less. 

“‘Sup, Samantha” Rick offered, thin lip curling into a cocky grin as if he’d delivered the best joke ever. 

“Rick the Dick. Least that hasn’t changed. Nice to see you lost the mullet, though.” Sam shifted back slightly, needing to get away from the overwhelming smell of the other man’s cologne. “Why are you here? In my bar, and in my face.” 

“Just passing through, checking out some possible recruits. Can’t believe this shithole’s still open. Gotta be tough to keep the place running when the owner’s drinking half the profits.” Rick’s grin slipped into a sneer, one Sam knew so well when it came to a particular tax bracket in a town like Castleport. Those types who always enjoyed reminding everyone else just how beneath them they really were.

Sam turned, elbows resting atop the bar to keep him from clenching his fists as outwardly, he attempted a look of bored indifference. “Shouldn’t you be moving along? There’s no jockstraps you gotta collect back in Boston? The Bruins must miss their best errand boy.” 

Rick laughed, the sound of it chipped and hard like ice and it only stoked an ugly feeling in Sam. “Nice. You were always a funny guy. Guess you gotta be, balances out the fuck-up. But hey, I hear congrats are in order. The old man’s in rehab. What’s that, first time sober in a decade?” Sam felt the hand come down hard on his shoulder and the smell of Rick’s boozy breath hitting him hard as the other man leaned in. “Shit, Rock Harbor. Gotta draw a lot of shitty tattoos to make those payments.” 

“Get your fuckin’ hand off me.” Sam didn’t bother turning to face him. He knew baiting when he heard it, knew it wouldn’t take much more for him to react, and he wasn’t sure if he was more annoyed at Rick or himself. 

Nah, it was definitely at Rick. 

He could see the look of concern that Natasha sent his way but he brushed it off with a minute shake of his head. He wasn’t going to drag anyone else into this shit. Rick was looking to be an asshole, and Sam didn’t want to play that game. 

He jerked out of the other man’s hold, his elbow clipping Rick’s bottle of beer and Sam winced when it slipped and dropped to the floor, smashing in a mess of glass and beer. 

“What the fuck, man!” Rick sputtered, loudly, drawing the attention of a few people sitting around. “It was just a joke, no need to smash my drink.” 

“That was all you,” Sam replied simply. He was in no mood for the show Rick was clearly gearing up for, especially as more people seemed to be paying attention. “You talked your shit and now your drink’s gone. Time to call it a night.” 

That didn’t sit well with Rick. His face, as ruddy as his rust-colored hair, contorted with anger and he glanced around at the growing audience before replying, raising his voice dramatically. “That’s how you treat a paying customer? Shit, everyone in here knows you need the money. Your daddy’s rehab bill ain’t gonna pay itself.” 

There was an audible gasp at that, and Sam exhaled, slowly. The ugly feeling rose, churning hotly in his gut and he could feel the twitch in his fingers. It grew watching Rick, who now that he’d gotten some attention, decided to kick it up a notch. He pulled out his wallet and tossed some bills in Sam’s face, the crowd’s reaction louder as the bills fluttered to the floor. 

“Better pick those up, Evans. That’s at least three therapy sessions for your drunk ass father. Better yet…” More money followed, landing right on the others but not before clipping Sam in the collar and his fingers flexed before curling tightly. The nails dug into the flesh of his palms and his peridot eyes were hard and flat as Rick fixed him with that stupid fucking sneer. “That’s for you. Just in case. ‘Cause it’s obvious fuck-up runs in the family.” 

Sam didn’t even know when he reached for the other man. But it was only when he felt that first punch connect with Rick’s cheek, and heard the exclamations did he realize what he’d done. 

It didn’t stop him, though. 

Something inside him snapped, the throb in his knuckles jolting him into the moment, focused and steeped in a hot fury that shook his hands but they were steady when he delivered another blow. It was so satisfying, seeing the blood, Rick’s lip already swelling before he managed to even hit Sam back. 

Sam barely registered the right hook to his eye, ignoring the pain of it and busied himself with busting Rick’s nose. The crunch of cartilage and Rick’s pained groans as Sam delivered another blow was the only sounds he could register, ignoring the way the music stopped and how people clamored out of their way, the noise of voices and shouts fading while he pummeled Rick, not even bothering to dodge the other man’s wild defensive swings. He didn’t feel anything, only that angry, ugly heat burning in his belly, letting his blows land hard and fast. 

Rick was on the ground when the bouncers finally managed to make it through the crowd to see what the commotion was about. Sam stood over him, chest heaving. He licked his lips, tasting the blood and the sting of an already swelling cut on his bottom lip and that only made him angrier. He watched the bouncers help Rick to his feet, cursing and swaying and Sam stepped forward,ready to bust him up again but was met with a hand to his shoulder from Kevin, one of the bouncers. 

He looked around, at the various reactions from the crowd. Stunned, impressed. Disgusted. 

Fuck them. 

Fuck this. 

“Get him outta here,” he told Kevin, who simply nodded and led the way while Rick shouted back at Sam, the words inaudible over the chatter of the crowd. 

Adrenaline pumped through him, his hands shaking with it as he grabbed his jacket from the bar top, not even bothering to look back at the bartenders as he stepped over the small pile of bills on the floor and moved toward the back door, finding it easier to get through the crowd with nearly everyone giving him a wide berth. 

He made it to his truck out back, and slid inside, the tremble in his hands still going strong, and the cold had done nothing to ease the hot anger roiling inside him. His gaze fell to his knuckles. Stinging and slightly bloody. Barely able to grip the steering wheel. Sam didn’t know how long he sat there, waiting for the shivery feeling to leave him before he finally pulled away and drove towards home.

[askauradonprep]

Wrestling Inspiration

As part of the wrestling AU, @scream-qween and I were talking about the different kids and wrestlers who could have served as inspiration for them. Let’s pretend for a second the WWE exists in this universe. Other wrestler suggestions are welcome, I’m just picking ones I’m familiar with (and I’m relatively new to wrestling - I’ve only watched for two years and only watched WWE).

Note: I am referring to the wrestlers as in their kayfabe personas. Any mention of them here should not be read as an endorsement of anything they may have said or done elsewhere. 

Mal = Paige, Sonya Deville, Mandy Rose, Undertaker, Kane, Ruby Riott, Sarah Logan, Liv Morgan, Jody Threat, Molly McCoy, Maria Manic, Tamina and Nia Jax (as a heel). 

Uma = Kairi Sane, Io Shirai, Becky Lynch, Roman Reigns, Drew McIntyre, Sasha Banks, Creatures of the Deep, Trish Stratus, Jordynne Grace, The Sea Stars, Chyna, Rhea Ripley, Shotzi Blackheart, Lita, Allie, Kofi Kingston, Nia Jax, Beth Phoenix, Randy Orton, Seth Rollins, Bianca Belair, and Ronda Rousey.

Freddie = Undertaker, Kane, Cameron, Carmella, Damian Priestly, Bray Wyatt, Ember Moon, AJ Lee, Paige, New Age Outlaws, Hawlee Cromwell, Elias, Sanity, Su Yung, Nikki Roxx, Aliyah, and Ruby Riott.

Celia = Undertaker, Bray Wyatt, New Age Outlaws, Ember Moon, Tamina, Aleister Black, Sting, Solo Darling, Nikki Roxx, Willow Nightingale, and Vivian St. John

Jay = Baron Corbin, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Miz, Natalya, Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, Dean Ambrose, Imperium, British Strong Style, Pete Dunne, Goldberg, Ember Moon, Big Show, Jericho, Bret Hart, Bullet Club, Kurt Angle, Rey Mysterio, Alex Zayne, Roman Reigns, Warhorse, The Rock, and the Undertaker

Evie = Nikki Bella, Brie Bella, Alexa Bliss, Sasha Banks, Cameron, Mandy Rose, Naomi (especially as a face), Scarlette Bordeaux, Velveteen Dream, Laynie Luck, Breezango, Kylie Rae, and Bayley (especially at the height of her ‘hugger’ days), Charlotte Flair and Ric Flair.

Carlos = Carmella, R-Truth, the Usos, New Day, Shield (as faces), Mark Henry, Big Show, Heath Slater, Undisputed Era, Jordynne Grace, Alex Ohlson, IFHY, Lana, Marko and Logan Stunt, No Way Jose, Lucha House Party, Xyberhawx 2000, and Naomi.

Harry = Nikki Cross, Drew McIntyre, Aleister Black, AJ Lee, Bray Wyatt, Kane, Kairi Sane, Shayna Baszler, Space Pirates, Becky Lynch, Jon Moxley, Jordynne Grace, The Sea Stars, Creatures of the Deep, Damian Priestly, Ember Moon, Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels, Mick Moretti, The Carnies, Undertaker, and Finn Balor (as the demon).

Gil = Brock Lesnar, Braun Strowman, Bobby Lashley, Randy Orton, Drew McIntyre, New Day, Heavy Machinery, Space Pirates, the Viking Raiders, Oleg the Usurper, Creatures of the Deep, Warhorse, Mark Henry, Kane, Big Show, and Kairi Sane.

Ben = John Cena, Kurt Angle, Bruno Sanmartino, Bret Hart, Finn Balor, Diamond Dallas Page, Bayley, Naomi, Natalya, Boomer Hatfield, Levi Everett, Dynamite Dino Dude, and Roman Reigns (especially after he came back from leukaemia).

Chad = Baron Corbin, Randy Orton, Carmella (as a heel), the Miz (as a heel), the Shield (as heels), Kane, Sasha Banks (as a heel), Shane McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Vince McMahon, Darin Corbin, GPA, Breezango, and the Usos. 

Lonnie = Asuka’s NXT heel run, Xia Li, Becky Lynch (especially as ‘the Man’), Sonya Deville, Gail Kim, Bianca Belair, Minerva, Velveteen Dream, Johnny Gargano, Jason Jordan, The Bar, Titus O’Neil Rhea Ripley, Shayna Baszler, Tamina, Lacey Lane, Mia Yim, and Natalya. 

Jane = Bayley, Asuka (as a face), Candice LeRae, Dakota Kai, Bobby Roode, Sara Del Ray, Summer Rae, Willow Nightingale, Solo Darling, Jordynne Grace, and Charlotte Flair

Audrey = SASHA BANKS, Charlotte Flair, Bianca Belair, the Rock, AJ Lee (as a heel), Alexa Bliss, Nikki Bella, Brie Bella, Mercedes Martinez, Velveteen Dream, Renee Michelle, Roman Reigns, Princess Kimberlee, Mickie James, Lacey Evans and Tamina.

Jordan = Sasha Banks, Carmella, R-Truth, Cameron, Miz, Maryse, Nikki Bella, Nia Jax, Becky Lynch, Natalya, CM Punk, Roddy Piper, Tegan Nox, Santana Garrett, Kacy Catanzaro, D-Generation-X, Molly Holly, LuFisto, Lacey Lane, Ronda Rousey.

Ally = Harley Wonderland, Nikki Cross, Allison Wonderland, Alexa Bliss, Maria Kanellis, Rhea Ripley, Lita, Elias, Heavy Machinery, EFFY, AJ Lee, Bayley, and Lacey Evans, Nina Samuels, Jinny.

CJ = Kairi Sane and Io Shirai are all she cares about.

Aziz = Ricochet, Ali, AJ Styles (as a face), B-Team, Bayley, Dolph Ziggler, Jinder Mahal, Finn Balor, Kurt Angle, Dana Brooke, the New Day, Jordan Devlin, Sonny Daze, Goldust.

Herkie = Shinsuke Nakamura, Rusev, Kevin Owens, Brock Lesnar, Mark Henry, Samoa Joe, Bobby Lashley, Becky Lynch, Titus O’Neil, Shelton Benjamin, Kurt Angle, Mandy Rose, and Punishment Martinez.

Maddy = AJ Lee, Aksana, Ember Moon, CM Punk, Paige, Emma, Lita, Charlotte Flair, Rosa Mendes, Victoria, The Beautiful People, Ric Flair, The Ascension, Laycool, and Alexa Bliss, Jinny, Reina Gonzalez.

Ginny = Alexa Bliss, Alicia Fox, Candice LeRae, Mandy Rose, Charlotte Flair, Maryse, Zelina Vega, Lana, Randy Savage, Maria Kanellis, Dolph Ziggler, Laycool, The Iiconics, Candy Floss, Carmella.

Harriet = Kairi Sane, Io Shirai, Mia Yim, Shane Saber, Shelly Martinez, Shayna Baszler, Paul and Katie Lea Burchill, Rhea Ripley, Batista, Kay Lee Ray, Jazzy Gabert, Natalya, Becky Lynch, and Toni Storm.

Ruby = Bayley, Bobby Roode, Dolph Ziggler, Naomi, New Day, Candice LeRae, Dakota Kai, Lucha House Party, Rey Mysterio, Bianca Belair, Jericho, No Way Jose, Dana Brooke, Xia Brookside, Carmella and R-Truth, Humberto Carrillo, Jurassic Express, Cain Velasquez, Andrade, Sin Cara, Zelina Vega, Sarah Stock, Catalina Garcia.

Anxelin = Baron Corbin, Alexa Bliss, Carmella, Charlotte Flair, Ember Moon, Sasha Banks, Paige, Eddie Guerrero, Apollo Crews, Cedric Alexander, Dana Brooke, Titus O’Neil, Shelton Benjamin.

Yi-Min = She’s mostly seen Chinese wrestling promotions, so Black Mamba, Ho Ho Lun, King of Man, Ash Silva, Slam, Hangwan, Voodoo, Candy Brother, Dalton Bragg, and Jason New are her inspirations from those promotions. She’s got a few wrestlers whose careers she follows in English though - Xia Li, Karen Q, Lin Byron, Kenny Li, Rocky, and Big Boa.

Arabella = Daniel Bryan, Rowan, Brie Bella, Asuka, Rusev, Lana, Natalya, Alexa Bliss, Braun Strowman, Becky Lynch, Sami Zayn, Sasha Banks, Finn Balor, Apollo Crews, The Miz, Mandy Rose, Goldust, Elias, Bayley, Bobby Roode, Charlotte Flair, Jimmy Uso, Naomi, Shinsuke Nakamura, Big E, Carmella, Ember Moon, Mickie James, Bobby Lashley, Jinder Mahal, Alicia Fox, Kevin Owens, AJ Styles, Jeff Hardy, R-Truth, and Nia Jax.

Jade = Aliyah, Jayme Hachey, Bianca Belair, Vanessa Borne, Abbey Laith, Ayesha Raymond, Candice LeRae, Dakota Kai, Jazzy Gabert, Kairi Sane, Kavita Devi, Kay Lee Ray, Lacey Evans, Marti Belle, Mercedes Martinez, Mia Yim, Miranda Salinas, Nicole Savoy, Piper Niven, Princesa Sugehit, Rachel Evers, Reina Gonzalez, Renee Michelle, Rhea Ripley, Sage Beckett, Santana Garrett, Sarah Logan, Serena Deeb, Shayna Baszler, Taynara Conti, Tessa Blanchard, Toni Storm, Xia Li, Zeda, Tegan Nox, Barbi Hayden, Deonna Purrazzo, Jessica James, Lei’D Tapa, Nicole Matthews, Alundra Blayze, Lita, Triple H, Corey Graves, Aerial Monroe, Allysin Kay, Ashley Rayne, Hiroyo Matsumoto, Io Shirai, Isla Dawn, Jessica Elaban, Jinny, Kacy Catanzaro, Kaitlyn, Karen Q, Killer Kelly, Lacey Lane, Meiko Satomura, MJ Jenkins, Priscilla Kelly, Vanessa Kraven, Xia Brookside, Zatara, Zeuxis, Beth Pheonix

Zevon = Steve Austin, Triple H, Brock Lesnar, Batista, Rey Mysterio, Undertaker, John Cena, Randy Orton, Edge, Sheamus, Roman Reigns, Shinsuke Nakamura, Asuka, Becky Lynch, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, Charlotte Flair,  Booker T, William Regal, Bad News Barrett, Baron Corbin, Christian, The Miz, Daniel Bryan, CM Punk, MVP

Anthony = Steve Austin, Triple H, Kurt Angle, Rob Van Dam, Brock Lesnar, Batista, John Cena, Randy Orton, AJ Styles, The Miz, CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, Kazuchika Okada, Kenny Omega, Ted DiBiase, Ric Flair, The Rock, William Regal, Prince Devitt, Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, Mustafa Ali, Prince Nana, Prince Puma, Awesome Kong, Mickie James, Michelle McCool, Madison Eagles, Gail Kim, Cheerleader Melissa, Paige, Nikki Bella, Asuka, Ronda Rousey, Becky Lynch, Natalya, Jimmy Jacobs, Aliyah, Alexa Bliss, The Authority, Kairi Sane, Carmella, Toni Storm, Chrissy Rivera, Chelsea Green

Claudine = Michelle McCool, Kurt Angle, Roman Reigns, Rey Mysterio, AJ Styles, Quinn Ojinnaka, Eddie Guerrero, Pat Patterson, Shawn Michaels, Naomi, Nor Diana, Goldberg, Mustafa Ali, Kacy Catanzaro, Ricochet, Candice LeRae, Mandy Rose, Lacey Evans (as a face), Bayley (as a face), Becky Lynch (as The Lasskicker), Dana Brooke, Sami Zayn (as a face).

Diego = Elias, Street Profits, R-Truth, Carmella, Sasha Banks, Bayley, Shawn Michaels, Jericho, Cameron, Naomi, Marty Jannetty, Shayna Baszler, Drake Maverick, The Rockstar, John Cena, Lita, Mickie James, Jeff Jarrett, Jeff Hardy, Matt Hardy, Samoa Joe, Lio Rush, Braun Strowman, Rusev, The Rock, Aiden English, Bobby Roode, Hulk Hogan, Lana

Opal = Ricochet, Kota Ibushi, Rey Mysterio, Io Shirai, AJ Styles, Jeff Hardy, Evan Bourne, Owen Hart, Jushin Thunder Liger, Kane, Randy Savage, Scott Steiner, Lita, Christian, Jamie Noble, Matt Hardy, Gail Kim, Daniel Bryan, Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston, Tajiri, Zelina Vega, Ayako Hamada, Aliyah, Naomi, Mio Shirai

Ariana = Lady Apache, La Amapola, Marcela, Lioness Asuka, Dynamite Kansai, Chigusa Nagayo, Dump Matsumoto, Mae Young, Luna Vachon, Leilani Kai, Sarah Stock, Natalya, Cheerleader Melissa, Ayako Hamada, Beth Phoenix, Mariko Yoshida, Gail Kim, Mickie James, Sara Del Rey, Akira Hokuto, Alundra Blayze, Judy Grable, Wendi Richter, Bull Nakano, June Byers, Jaguar Yokota, Chyna, Sherri Martel, Awesome Kong, Lita, Mildred Burke, Aja Kong, Trish Stratus, Manami Toyota, Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, Paige, AJ Lee, Marie LaVerne, Joyce Grable, Ann Casey, Sue Green, Rachel Dubois, Debra, Stephanie McMahon, Victoria, Candice Michelle, MsChif, Sasha Banks, Asuka, Michelle McCool, Madison Eagles, Jazz, Jacqueline, Nikki Bella, Alicia Fox, Ivory, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins

Lil’ Shang = Edge, Christian, Rey Mysterio, Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Brett Hart, Jim Neidhart, Undertaker, Kane, Finn Balor, Ho Ho Lun, Big Boa, Rocky, The Rock, Rikishi, Mick Foley, Kurt Angle, Chris Jericho, Daniel Bryan, Jinder Mahal, Booker T, Fit Finlay, R-Truth, Trish Stratus, Lita, Victoria, Jazz, Molly Holly, Beth Phoenix, LuFisto, Lance Storm, Road Dogg, Umaga, The New Day, Bianca Belair, Street Profits

Artie = Tyler Bate, Trent Seven, Pete Dunne, Jordan Devlin, Kenny Williams, Ligero, Nick Aldis, Drew McIntyre, Finn Balor, Sheamus, Becky Lynch, Nikki Cross, Paige, James Drake, Bea Priestley, Ayesha Raymond, Zoe Lucas, Tegan Nox, Layla, Lana Austin, Bad News Barrett, Drake Maverick, Isla Dawn, Priscilla Kelly, Joe and Mark Coffey, Finlay, Nadia Sapphire, Eddie Dennis, Mark Andrews, Morgan Webster

Carina = Andre the Giant, Tamina, Lana, Maryse, Taynara Conti, Gisele Shaw, Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, Trish Stratus, Rhea Ripley, Indi Hartwell, Alexa Bliss, Bayley, Liv Morgan, Natalya, Toni Storm, Kay Lee Ray, Nia Jax, Mortar, Tegan Nox, Chyna, Lita, Asuka, Kairi Sane, Io Shirai, Kagetsu, Melanie Cruise, Shotzi Blackheart, Dakota Kai, Mia Yim, Candice LeRae, Riho, Sarah Logan, Hikaru Shida, Aja Kong, Bull Nakano

Doug is a manager. As a manager, his inspirations are Paul Heyman, Zelina Vega, Lana, and Bobby Heenan. Smee kids and Elle are commentators. The boys tend to like Michael Cole, Beth Phoenix and Byron Saxton. Elle tends towards JR, Corey Graves and Renee Young. Dizzy is a reporter back stage, but her favourite wrestlers to watch are Bayley, Kylie Rae, Breezango, and Princess Kimberly as a face. She gets her professional inspiration from Renee Young, Gene Okerlund, Charly Caruso and Cathy Kelley.

[daydreamer0078]

16 Most Anticipated Movies in 2020 that Must Watch

There are special movies coming in 2020. We have to watch them without missing them. It's exciting that so many special movies releasing in 2020 that include birds of prey, do little, quiet place 2, black widow and other movies. These movies are producing by the major studios and releasing in 2020. If you're a movie lover, you shouldn't miss them. I don't think you don't miss them. As a movie lover, you are gonna watch all of them because the movies that are gonna release have a great expectations. The following list are the most anticipated movies which are gonna release in 2020. Do Little

About Movie: Dolittle is an American action fantasy film directed by Stephen Gaghan from Gaghan's script and Thomas Shepherd's plot. The film is based on Hugh Lofting's character Doctor Dolittle, and primarily based on Doctor Dolittle's Voyages. Robert Downey Jr. appears as the title character in live-action performances along with Antonio Banderas and Michael Sheen; the voice cast features Emma Thompson, Rami Malek, John Cena, Kumail Nanjiani, Octavia Spencer, Tom Holland, Craig Robinson, Ralph Fiennes, Selena Gomez and Marion Cotillard. Dolittle is scheduled to be released on January 17, 2020, in the United States. Plot: A doctor finds he can speak to animals Birds of Prey

About Movie: Birds of Prey: And One Harley Quinn's Fantabulous Emancipation is an American superhero film based on Birds of Prey's DC Comics team. The film, directed by Cathy Yan and written by Christina Hodson, is intended to be the eighth film in the DC Extended Universe and a follow-up spin-off to the 2016 film Suicide Squad. Margot Robbie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Rosie Perez, Chris Messina, Ali Wong, Ella Jay Basco, and Ewan McGregor. Birds of Prey is the first R-rated DCEU film. On February 7, 2020, Warner Bros is scheduled to release Birds of Prey in the United States. Plot: Harley Quinn meets Black Canary, Huntress and Renee Montoya after breaking with the Joker to save a young girl from a lord of bad crime.   A Quiet Place: Part II

About Movie: A Quiet Place: Part II is the sequel to A Quiet Place (2018) of an upcoming American horror film. The sequel film, directed and written by John Krasinski, stars Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, and Noah Jupe. The cast is also joined by Cillian Murphy and Djimon Hounsou. After the first film's box office success. Krasinski wrote the film by August 2018 and was hired to direct in February 2019. From June 2019 to September 2019, production took place in Western New York. On March 20, 2020, Paramount Pictures plans to release A Quiet Place: Part II at theaters. Plot: The Abbott family is now facing the outside world's horror after the events at home. Forced to venture into the unknown, they realize the creatures that are not the only threats that lie beyond the path of the sand.   The New Mutants

About Movie: The New Mutants is a group of new teenaged mutant superheroes-in-training distributed by Marvel Comics. They were the main characters of three successive series of comic books that were X-Men franchise spin-offs. Chris Claremont and artist Bob McLeod created the first team of characters from New Mutants. They first appeared in The New Mutants 1982, part of the Marvel Graphic Novel series, followed by their own cover from 1983 to 1991. A new group of young mutants is introduced in the second New Mutants in 2003. It was relaunched in 2004 as New X-Men: Academy X, after which the core squad was collectively called the "Young Mutants." The surviving members were incorporated into one junior team, the New X-Men, after the "M-Day" crossover event at the end of 2005. The third series of New Mutants was released in May 2009, putting together most of the original team. A film will be released on 3 April 2020 about the New Mutants. Plot: Five young mutants, just discovering their abilities while held in a secret facility against their will, fight to escape their past sins and save themselves. No Time to Die

About Movie: No Time to Die is an  spy film and the twenty-fifth installment to be produced by Eon Productions in the James Bond film franchise. This features Daniel Craig as fictional MI6 agent James Bond in his fifth outing. It is written by Cary Joji Fukunaga, who also co-wrote the script with Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge. With Rami Malek, Lashana Lynch and Ana de Armas joining the cast, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw, Rory Kinnear, Jeffrey Wright, Léa Seydoux and Christoph Waltz take over from previous films. It will be the first film in the series to be internationally distributed by Universal Pictures.The film is scheduled to be released in the United Kingdom on April 2, 2020, and in the United States on April 10, 2020. Plot: Bond has left active service. His peace is short-lived when his old CIA friend Felix Leiter turns up asking for assistance, leading Bond to the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. Black Widow

About Movie: Black Widow is a forthcoming American superhero film based on the same name's Marvel Comics character. Produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. The film is directed by Jac Schaeffer and Ned Benson, Cate Shortland, and stars Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff, alongside David Harbour, Florence Pugh, O-T Fagbenle, and Rachel Weisz.  Black Widow is scheduled to be theatrically released in the United States on May 1, 2020. Plot:  Not yet revealed , but the film took place between the events Civil War and Infinity War.   Fast & Furious 9

About Movie: Fast & Furious 9 is an  film directed by Justin Lin and penned by Daniel Casey on American violence. It will be the ninth installment in the Fast & Furious franchise, a sequel to 2017's The Fate of the Furious. The film will feature stars like Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris Bridges "Ludacris," Nathalie Emmanuel, John Cena, Helen Mirren, Charlize Theron, and Michael Rooker. Fast & Furious 9 is scheduled to be released by Universal Pictures in the U.S. on May 22, 2020. Plot:  Not yet revealed. Wonder Woman 1984

About Movie:  Wonder Woman 1984  is an  American superhero film based on the character DC Comics Wonder Woman, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. It's a sequel to the Wonder Woman in 2017. Patty Jenkins directs the film from the screenplay she wrote with Geoff Johns and David Callaham, From Johns and Jenkins's narrative. Together with Chris Pine, Kristen Wiig, Pedro Pascal, Robin Wright, and Connie Nielsen, it stars Gal Gadot as Diana Prince / Wonder Woman. Wonder Woman will be released by Warner Bros in the United States in 1984. From June 5, 2020 Plot: Not yet revealed. Top Gun: Maverick

About Movie: Top Gun: Maverick is an  American adventure drama movie directed by Joseph Kosinski, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Tom Cruise, and David Ellison, composed by Ehren Kruger, Eric Warren Singer, and Christopher McQuarrie. It is the sequel to Top Gun (1986) and Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm, Glen Powell, Lewis Pullman, Ed Harris, and Val Kilmer stars. From the first film, Cruise and Kilmer take over their roles. Top Gun: Maverick is scheduled to be released by Paramount Pictures in the U.S. on June 26, 2020. Plot: Pete Mitchell is where he belongs after more than thirty years of service as one of the best aviators in the Navy, pushing the envelope as a daring test pilot and dodging the rise of rank that would ground him. Free Guy

About Movie: Free Guy is an American science fiction action comedy movie directed by Shawn Levy, Matt Lieberman's plot, and Lieberman and Zak Penn's screenplay in 2020. The movie stars Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer, Joe Keery, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Lil Rel Howery, and Taika Waititi. Free Guy will be released by 20th Century Fox on July 3, 2020. Plot: A bank teller discovers that within a brutal, open-world video game, he's actually an NPC. Ghostbusters: Afterlife

About Movie: Ghostbusters: Afterlife is a future supernatural American comedy movie directed by Jason Reitman and written by Reitman and Gil Kenan. It stars Mckenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, Carrie Coon, Paul Rudd, Logan Kim, and Celeste O'Connor, while from the original films Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver and Annie Potts take over their roles. It's a reference to the franchise of Ghostbusters. Ghostbusters: Paramount Pictures, by Sony Pictures Releasing, is scheduled to be released in the United States on July 10, 2020. Plot: When a single mother and her two children arrive in a small town, they start to discover their connection with the original Ghostbusters and their grandfather left behind the secret legacy.   Tenet

About Movie: Tenet is an action thriller movie produced by Nolan and Emma Thomas, written and directed by Christopher Nolan. It stars John David Washington, Robert Pattinson, Dimple Kapadia, Elizabeth Debicki, Michael Caine, and Kenneth Branagh. Warner Bros is scheduled to release Tenet on July 17, 2020. Plot: An epic action revolving around spying, time travel and evolution around the world. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It

About Movie: The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It is a supernatural American horror film written by David Leslie Johnson's Michael Chaves from a screenplay. The film is the Conjuring Universe's eighth chapter. Together with Sterling Jerins, Julian Hilliard, Sarah Catherine Hook, Charlene Amoia and Ruairi O'Connor, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga will also take on their roles as paranormal investigators and authors, Ed and Lorraine Warren. The project is being co-produced by James Wan and Peter Safran. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It is expected to be released on September 11, 2020 in the United States and will be distributed by Warner Bros. and New Cinema Line. Plot: Not yet revealed. Venom 2

About Movie: Venom 2 is an upcoming American superhero movie based on the character of Marvel Comics Venom, produced in partnership with Marvel by Columbia Pictures. It is planned to be the third installment of Sony's Marvel Universe and the successor to Venom (2018), released by Sony Pictures Releasing. The film is directed by Andy Serkis from a script by Kelly Marcel and, along with Woody Harrelson, Michelle Williams, Reid Scott, and Naomie Harris, stars Tom Hardy as Eddie Brock / Venom. The release of Venom 2 in the United States is scheduled for October 2, 2020. Plot: Not yet revealed. The Eternals

About Movie: The Eternals is a potential American superhero movie based on the same name's Marvel Comics race. Produced by Marvel Studios and produced by Motion Pictures at Walt Disney Studios. The film is directed by Matthew and Ryan Firpo's Chloé Zhao, and features an ensemble cast including Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lauren Ridloff, Brian Tyree Henry, Salma Hayek, Lia McHugh, Don Lee, Barry Keoghan, Gemma Chan, and Kit Harington. The Eternals are scheduled to be released in the United States on November 6, 2020. Plot: The Eternals ' saga, a race of immortal beings that lived on Earth and shaped their history and civilizations. Godzilla vs. Kong

About Movie: Godzilla vs. Kong is Adam Wingard's new American monster movie, produced by Terry Rossio. The movie is also the 36th film in the Godzilla series, the 12th film in the King Kong franchise, and the fourth Godzilla film to be made exclusively by a Hollywood studio. The film stars are Alexander Skarsgård, Millie Bobby Brown, Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Shun Oguri, Eiza González, Jessica Henwick, Julian Dennison, Kyle Chandler, Zhang Ziyi, and Demián Bichir. Godzilla vs. Kong is expected to be released on  November 20, 2020. Plot: As the gigantic Kong meets the unstoppable Godzilla, the world watches to see which one of them will become King of the Monsters.   You might be interested in these articles, Have a look at them. MARVEL  PHASE 5 MOVIES AND SHOWS LIST HUGE MARVEL PHASE 5 LEAK – MCU Deadpool will Join with Avengers Soon – MCU Best Hollywood Movies of 2019 that You Must See! Read the full article

[maddie-grove]

Bi-Monthly Reading Round-Up (July/August)

PLAYLIST

"Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson (The Wonder)

“The Lusty Month of May” from Camelot (Between a Highlander and a Hard Place)

“Blood on My Name” by The Brothers Bright (Vampires in the Lemon Grove)

“Too Good at Goodbyes” by Sam Smith (A Prince on Paper)

“All I See Is You” by Dusty Springfield (The End of Everything)

“Your Song” by Elton John (Patience and Sarah)

“Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” by Diana Ross (Touchy Subjects)

“When You’re Young and in Love” by the Marvelettes (Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda)

“No Sleep Tonight” by the Faders (Can’t Escape Love)

“Take Me in Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While)” by Kim Weston (Bury Me Deep)

“Cold Bread” by Johnny Flynn (Fludd)

“Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen (The Rest of the Story)

“How Can I Meet Her?” by the Everly Brothers (Someone to Honor)

“A Matter of Trust” by Billy Joel (The Scandalous Secret of Abigail MacGregor)

BEST OF THE BI-MONTH

The Wonder by Emma Donoghue (2016): Lib Wright, an English nurse who worked with Florence Nightingale in the Crimean War, is hired to observe Anna O’Donnell, an eleven-year-old Irish girl who claims to have not eaten for four months. Initially exasperated at the everyone’s credulity, Lib gradually realizes that there’s a lot more going on with Anna, her family, and her village than she thought...and that the girl may be in serious danger if she doesn’t intervene. Despite my love of Donoghue’s work, I put off reading this one for a while because the subject looked so grim. Although Donoghue does deal with difficult material, the growing relationship between prickly Lib and bright-but-haunted Anna makes the novel transcendent.

WORST OF THE BI-MONTH

Between a Highlander and Hard Place by Mary Wine (2018): After her highborn suitor shows his true colors, Athena Trappes sets fire to his house in self-defense and flees to Scotland. There she attracts the attention of Symon, Laird Grant, a melancholy widower. This Elizabethan romance has its moments, notably a lovely meet-cute at a May Day celebration, but it’s mostly dull with some irritating tropes.

REST OF THE BI-MONTH

Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell (2013): In this collection, Russell tells the stories of various oddities, including women who turn into silkworms, presidents who are reincarnated as horses, and, yes, vampires in the lemon grove. The collection is remarkably consistent, and Russell shows enormous range in it. My favorites are the utterly chilling prairie horror of “Proving Up,” the hilariously absurd “The Barn at the End of the Term,” and the heartbreaking “The Graveless Doll of Eric Mutis.”

A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole (2019): Nya Jerami has existed under a cloud of suspicion and gossip since her abusive father, an adviser to the king of Thesolo, was sent to prison for poisoning his political rivals. Eager to start her life properly but unsure how, Nya finds unexpected help from Johan van Braustein, the seemingly devil-may-care stepson of the king of a European micronation. This is my favorite contemporary romance I’ve ever read, with two dynamic, endearing protagonists and a strong sense of setting. Cole expertly blends realistic modern-day concerns with frothy wish fulfillment (plus a dash of fairy-tale Gothic).

The End of Everything by Megan Abbott (2011): When her best friend Evie disappears, thirteen-year-old Lizzie only has scanty clues regarding where or why. As she becomes more and more consumed with finding the answer, she discovers dark secrets underlying her seemingly placid 1980′s suburb. Of all the Abbott novels I’ve read, this is the simplest and perhaps the most disturbing. I didn’t love it, but it’s very effective.

Patience and Sarah by Isabel Miller (1969): In 1810′s Connecticut, educated “spinster” Patience White finds herself intrigued by sweet, rough-hewn Sarah Dowling. Although their families contrive to keep them apart, they eventually make it to New York and start a farm together. Of the five f/f romance novels I’ve read, this is my very favorite. Miller captures the feel of early American literature very well, and the romance has a nice balance of tension and sweetness.

Touchy Subjects by Emma Donoghue (2006): This collection of short stories is, naturally enough, organized around “touchy subjects” like babies, domesticity, strangers, desire, and death. There are some jewels in this collection: the sad/funny “WritOr” (about a struggling author who takes on a resident-writer position at a rural college), the bittersweet “The Welcome” (about a naive young lesbian with a crush on a reserved trans woman), and the strangely uplifting “Enchantment” (about a rivalry between Cajun fishermen). There’s a lot of chaff to separate from the wheat, though; many of the stories are very slight.

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (2015): Simon Spier, an upper-middle-class teen in suburban Atlanta, isn’t 100% sure why he hasn’t come out as gay to his liberal family or friends, but for now he prefers to keep his sexuality (and a flirtatious email correspondence with an anonymous boy called Blue) under wraps. When a classmate finds out the truth and blackmails Simon into setting him up with his friend Abby, that task becomes a lot more complicated. Despite the rather disturbing premise, this is a super-cute YA novel that I would have loved when I was a YA. (At twenty-eight, I still liked it a lot; it’s just got a sense of immediacy that was a little lost on me thanks to my relatively advanced age, but would’ve been very appealing to me at sixteen.) 

Can’t Escape Love by Alyssa Cole (2019): Regina Hobbs, highly successful proprietor of a website about nerdy stuff, has it all together, except she’s suffering from a wicked case of insomnia. She’s convinced that only the voice of Gustave Nguyen, a puzzle designer she got to know after tuning into his livestream, can get her to sleep, so she contacts him to see if she can have a recording of his voice. Even though they both think it’s kind of weird, her request gets them talking...and MORE. This is a short but absolutely delightful novella about two neat people hooking up. The stakes are low, but the tensions stemming from Regina’s family keeps things interesting.

Bury Me Deep by Megan Abbott (2009): In the depths of the Great Depression, Marion Seeley finds herself alone in Phoenix while her morphine-addict husband chases redemption in Mexico. Working an administrative job at a local hospital, she falls in with party-girl nurse Louise, her TB-afflicted girlfriend Ginny, and (much to her sorrow) corrupt, handsome Joe Lanigan. Abbott’s historical crime novel takes a little while to heat up, but once it does it’s a very satisfying thriller. However, I was never convinced of Joe’s attractiveness even at a surface level, which was kind of an impediment to enjoying the story because Marion sure is.

Fludd by Hilary Mantel (1989): A mysterious stranger comes to a deeply Catholic, determinedly miserable English village in the 1950′s, claiming to be the new curate. While there, he greatly affects the lives of an alcoholic priest, his prim housekeeper, an unhappy young nun, and a pompous bishop. This is a highly peculiar, often enjoyable fable, although it drags quite a bit in the third quarter.

The Rest of the Story by Sarah Dessen (2019): Emma, an anxious seventeen-year-old who lost her mom to addiction five years ago, ends up spending part of the summer with her seldom-seen maternal relatives, who own a downscale motel in a lake town. While there, she learns about her mother’s secret history, observes the tensions between her family’s working-class community and the upscale resort people across the lake, has a low-key romance with a childhood friend, and practices her driving. This novel isn’t among Sarah Dessen’s best--the ending is a little rushed, and the romance feels perfunctory--but the setting is cool and Emma is an interesting protagonist.

Someone to Honor by Mary Balogh (2019): Years after her dad’s bigamy was revealed, resulting in her de-legitimization, reserved Abigail Westcott shows no interest in trying to re-enter society, instead opting to hang out with her convalescing Napoleonic War veteran brother. Unfortunately, his surly friend, Lieutenant Gilbert Bennington, is also intent on keeping her brother company to avoid his own problems, and he and Abigail don’t exactly get along. They come to understand each other, though, and decide to take a chance on marriage when Gilbert finds himself in trouble. I found this Regency romance to be solid but overly somber (not an infrequent issue with Balogh). I never got a great sense of who Abigail was and, while I sympathized with Gil, I also found him very irritating at times.

The Scandalous Secret of Abigail MacGregor by Paula Quinn (2015): In the late 1700′s, Queen Anne summons Davina MacGregor, secret eldest daughter of James II (and, were she not Catholic, rightful ruler of Great Britain), to court. Because Davina is sickly, her daughter Abigail, who has ambitions of being clan chieftain, goes to court in her place. She’s accompanied by Captain General Daniel Marlow, a Jacobite-hating English soldier and close friend of Anne’s. He’s got some trust issues and a stalker. This romance had a lot of potential, but too much of it is spent on the road and not enough on juicy court drama. The straight-version-of-Rachel-Weisz’s-character-in-The-Favorite villain was also, unfortunately, usurped by her much more boring lover.

[surveys-r-us]

it’s 2019 and i still do these

Do you know people with these names? For each name, say if you know someone with that name and how you know them.

Aaron: I know multiple Aaron’s. Two of them are former coworkers. The other one is someone I know of but haven’t really talked to much.  Adam: A jerk face.  Aisha Alanna Alex: Off the top of my mind, I think of someone I matched with on bumble a few months ago.  Alexa Alexandria: A girl from elementary school Allegra Allie: Someone from high school who had a baby.  Allison: A girl from my sorority (that I quit)

Alondra

Amanda: One of my early college friends who transferred. I don’t even follow her on social media anymore.

Amber Amie Ana: Another girl from my old sorority lol.  Anaïs Andreas Andrew: I know a few.  Angela: A girl I used to play soccer with in middle school.  Angelica Anna: Someone from high school. Think she moved after graduating college.  Annie Ari Ashley: Not the biggest fan of because she gets involved in other people’s business (including mine) but we’ve had some fun memories.  Ashna Audrey Austin: cute guy from my hometown who I talked for like a week senior year of high school Becky Ben: A friend I’ve never actually met in person but we talk every few months.

Berkeley: Someone who studied abroad in Ireland with me. She might’ve spelled it differently.  Beth: One of my first friends in college. She’s one of the nicest people I’ve met. Bobby: Another person from college. He can kinda be a dick.  Bolor Brendan: My friend who plays guitar and sings. Super talented. We bonded over our music tastes being relatively similar.  Bridgid Britney: I think it was spelled Brittany but a girl in the grade below me in high school.  Brooke: My little cousin. Cal Callie Cam Cameron: I had a brief crush on him back in high school.  Camille: One of my old roommates’ close friends. I’ve only talked to her like twice.  Camryn Carmen: A distance cousin.  Caro Caroline: I know like 5 Caroline’s. My old roommate is one of them.  Casilda Cecile Cecily Chanel Chloe: The first person I thought of was a friend’s little sister.  Chris: Super liberal, obsessed with Game of Thrones and listens to Talking Heads Christina: One of my sister’s friends.  Christopher: Someone from high school. I’ve known him since kindergarten.  Claire: One of my best friends.  Claudia Claudine Cole: Was just wondering about him the other day since he deleted all his social media. Wonder what he’s up to. I know he’s a pilot.  Connie Connor: He plays football and writes for our student newspaper.  Courtney: She’s hilarious.  Cyrus Daisy Dakota Dana Danielle: Someone from my high school who also went to my college. She was older than me though. David: This cool guy from the Netherlands I met my last night in Ireland. He was apparently super into me according to my sister. He deleted me on snapchat though so now I don’t know how to communicate with him.  Delilah Diane: My aunt.  Diego Donald Doug: A family friend Duncan Dylan: My best friend’s ex. Pretty sure he got busted for selling drugs lol Eleanor Elijah Elise: My sister Eliza Elizabeth: One of my sister’s friends.  Ella Elle: Another girl from my sorority. She tags her boyfriend in things a lot on facebook. Ellie: Another person from high school. She’s like me and got the fuck out of this town.  Elliot Emerson Emily: Man I know a ton. One that comes to mind is my friend who we can go months without talking and pick things up like no time passed.  Emma: Someone from college who deleted her social media recently. I applaud her for it.  Eric Erika: Erica. Went to middle school with her. She’s had two kids.  Ethan: Dude I knew of in college but never really talked to. Faith: One of my old coworkers. I would see her out at parties and be surprised since she didn’t seem like someone who drank.  Fiona Francesca: Franz George: This short kid who’s sorta friends with one of my old roommates. I had class with him and didn’t even realize it until 3 weeks before the semester ended haha.  Ginny Giselle Grace: My beautiful cousin Graham Hadley Hailey: One of the few people from high school I’d still hang out with. 

Hannah: Wasn't a big fan of her.  Havana Helen Henry: Someone else from high school. He’s super smart.  Hugo Huma Ilana Indra Isabel: One of my favorite coworkers from this past year. Such a sweetheart. However, she can talk too much which was especially annoying at our mandatory meetings at 9 PM (college jobs suck) when I just wanted to go home and go to bed.  Isabella Itza Ivy Izzy: Think there was a girl with that name on my floor freshman year Jackie Jacob: Old neighbor. He got busted buying weed before it was legal here. Not sure what he’s doing now James: My uncle Jamie Jason: A family friend. Actually saw him the other day.  Jennifer: My former aunt.  Jenny: see above Jess: One of my closest friends.  Jhadha Joe: My old manager at work. I miss him. He’s so funny.  John: My music soulmate.  Jonathan: He plays football. He and his girlfriend are super cute together.  Joseph: An asshole.  Joyce J.P. Jude Julia Julie Justin: A distant relative.  Kaan Kai Karina Kat Kate: One of my cousins.  Katherine Kinaya Kira Kristie Lanie Laura: She’s from Hungary. She’s low key insane.  Lauren: Aye that’s me. Also one of my best friends.  Leah: My old supervisor. She’s hilarious. León Lexxi Liberty Lisette Louisa Luca Luis Lynette MacKenzie: Spelled differently but this girl who’s somehow a Trump supporter lol.  Maddie: A really complicated friendship but think we’re good now.  Maggie: Actually one of the funniest people you could meet. She uses tinder just to send stupid messages.  Makena Manlio Margaret Margo Maria: My old roommate.  Marianna Mariely Martha Martin Mayuri McKinley Megan: The person I think of is a friend from college.  Meredith Mia: One of my really close friends.  Michael: My ex boyfriend lol Michelle: One of my oldest friends. I’ve known her since 1st grade.  Mike: This dude who gets insanely drunk at the bars and does stupid things. I don’t know how he hasn’t been arrested.  Minah Miranda: This artsy girl from high school.  Molly: Another old neighbor. She lives in Chicago I think.  Morgan: One of my close high school friends. I don’t really see her often.  Nadia Nancy Natalie: A mutual friend with different people. She studied abroad in Ireland when i did.  Nathan Nathanael Neoma Nichole: She was my camp counselor.  Nico Nikki Noah Noelle: Pretty sure there’s a girl from my hometown with that name.  Octavio Olivia: My locker buddy throughout high school. Would see her every day.  Orion Owen: Went to college with him for a bit. He transferred and then dropped out. No idea what he’s been up to. He’s really into theatre.  Paige: My little cousin Pam Pat Patrick: My old high school crush. He unfollowed me on instagram a few months ago which sucks because we were actually decently close friends at one point.  Paul: A family friend.  Paula Pauline Peter: I definitely know a Peter but can’t think of one.  Phoebe Phong Price Quinn Rachel: Another person from high school I’d actually still hang out with.  Rai Railey Raquel Ray Rayne Rebecca: Known her since 2nd grade.  Rebkah Regina Reilly Remy Ren Rhianna Robert: My friend’s brother.  Rohini Roither Rose Ruby Ruilin Sabrina Sakura Salim Sally Sam: This super buff guy from high school. Literally could be a bodybuilder for all I care. Sapna Sarah: This really religious girl I went to high school with. I don’t think she ever left our hometown.  Savanah Sebastian Shani Shannon: One of my good friends from middle school. I haven’t seen her in years.  Siena Snigdha Sofia Sophie Soren Spencer: Think a guy from my high school has a younger brother with this name.  Summers Sydney: She just got married and had like a two week honeymoon at Disney. Taran Taylor: Talked to one for like two weeks. His current girlfriend hates me but we kinda mutually ended things so I don’t get why.  Tessa: One of the nicest people from the nicest family in my entire town. Thea Theo Theresa: I’ve met a couple in college.  Tim: My uncle Tom: I’m not really a fan of him. He likes to show up to things uninvited. Tori Ural Victoria: Someone from my floor freshman year. She’s vegan and is getting married in like a month. I can’t wait to see her wedding photos. Her dress will probably be really beautiful.  Viviane Walter Will: Some kid from elementary school Willa William Yujin Yuta Zac Zoe Which names do you prefer?

Alice or Allana? Alice Allie or Andie? Andie Alexandra or Anastasia? Alexandra Anna or Angela? Anna Annie or Angelica? Angelica Ana or Ashna? Ana Audrey or Ashley? Audrey Ansel or Annika? Ansel Brooke or Britney? Brooke Berkeley or Bella? Bella Bo Chao or Beatrix? Beatrix Camille or Camryn? Camryn Cristina or Casilda? Cristina Chloe or Courtney? Courtney Charlotte or Carol? Charlotte Cleo or Chanel? Chanel Davin or Dillon? Dillon Delilah or Dutra? Delilah Erin or Elina? Erin Emin or Emerson? Emerson Emily or Emma? Emma Erika or Estelle? Estelle Faith or Frannie? Faith Fernanda or Francesca? Francesca Georgina or Gracie? Gracie Gabriela or Gina? Gina Hailey or Hannah? Hailey Hadley or Havana? Hadley Indra or Isabel? Isabel Indiana or Ivy? Indiana Jenny or Jessie? Jessie Julia or Joyce? Joyce Jasmine or Jackie? Jasmine Jamie or Jennifer? Jamie Kimia or Karina? Karina Katerina or Kate? Kate Kira or Kristie? Kira Lia or Lily? Lia Lauren or Lynette? Lauren Liberty or Leila? Liberty Margaret or Martha? Martha Michelle or Mackenzie? Michelle Mia or Michaela? Mia Morgan or Maddie? Morgan Maya or Mayuri? Maya Megan or Makena? Makena McKinley or Margo? Margo Nikki or Natalie? Natalie Nadia or Nancy? Nancy Nicole or Olivia? Olivia Rachel or Rebecca? Rachel Remi or Rosie? Remi Ruby or Reine? Ruby Ren or Sakura? Sakura Sapna or Snigdha? Sapna Sally or Stella? Sally Sophie or Sydney? Sophie Sophia or Solana? Sophia Skye or Sierra? Sierra Serena or Savanah? Savannah Sarah or Sabrina? Sabrina Tara or Taylor? Tara Vittoria or Yahs? Vittoria Yoonju or Yukine? Yukine Aidan or Austin? Austin Alan or Andrew? Alan Aldo or Alexx? Alexx Ben or Brian? Ben Billy or Brodie? Brodie Corey or Carlos? Carlos Coleman or Connor? Connor David or Dylan? David Eli or Eric? Eric Franz or Fernando? Franz Gabe or Graham? Gabe Holden or Hudson? Hudson Jacob or Justin? Justin Jack or JP? Jack Jimmy or Jared? Jared James or John? John Karm or Kian? Kian Lou or Lenny? Lenny Michael or Mickey? Michael Nick or Nathan? Nick Peter or Pierson? Peter Rai or Rafael? Rafael Sanjay or Supawat? Sanjay Will or Wynn? Will Zachary or Zack? Zack

[thefitzs-blog]

Hello I recently began reading historical fiction (both mystery and romance) and I remember you commenting some time ago that you like to read historical romance. Do you have any recommendations? I’m still new to the genre and am finding what I like and don’t like. Thank you. Ps I like your header , Julia Quinn is grate

Hi Anon,

I’m quite fussy myself when it comes to historical romance, but hopefully I can be of some help - I’m really not into ham joints for hands, musclar men and a lot of authors across romance genre tend to base their hero’s around this image. It’s always important to read reviews especially when you’re testing the waters, they sometimes give more detailed descriptions or offer trigger warnings or just warnings of distress (which are much needed, my heart has been broken many a time and a spoiler would have been appreciated). However, don’t base all your judgment on others views, if you think it sounds good but top reviews don’t, just go for it - but if it’s got mostly 2 star reviews then maybe not.

Amanda Quick might be your cup of tea as she combines mystery and romance in a 19th century setting. If you’re just into period mystery then Agatha Christie is always a reccomendation. She’s actually how I got into hr, well Christie and a really good fic writer who wrote an amazing historic au years ago.

A few of my favourites:

Fool for love by Eloisa James. Some heartbreaking moments in this book, for context the heroine has had an injured hip since birth, “They said you would never marry, Henrietta. You are married. They said you would never dance. We are dancing. And they said you would never give birth. But I know you. I know you want this baby. We’ll go to every doctor in England if we have to. We can find someone who will save the baby. And you.”

A week to be wicked by tessa dare - this book is wild - fake betrothals, sharing a bed, science fairs, scientific dirty talk, impromptu weddings, sword swallowing, pretending to have an affair to hide in plain sight, misunderstandings, highwaymen chasing them and lets not forget being robbed at gun point with our hero left for dead before our heroine knocks the lights out of the unsuspecting bandit. This book seems like fanfiction, more specifically fitzsimmons fanfiction. Once I read it I was tempted to write it but I’m a bad writer. Worth noting this book is one of the few books I enjoy both by the author and in the ‘spindle cove’ series, the book prior to this is a good read, the rest are mixed.)

Seven Years to Sin by Sylvia Day is great, I like-love it but I don’t love-love it. The hero coveted heroine for several years however she married during this time, she becomes widowed and the two meet by chance and explore the sparks that have been between them since the moment they laid eyes on one another.

Scandal of the Year by Laura Lee Ghurke - fyi only a pretence of adultery none actually committed- Hero and heroine are discovered in bed together by heroines husband which results in divorce, yes the scandal! Hero has no idea how he ended up in bed with the heroine, he remembers nothing other than her kiss before all fades to black. One later, they meet again, we learn their lives have intersected since they were 16, each coveting the other at one point or another yet too afraid to say something. Basically, Hero wants a future with heroine, heroine is scared and wants to enjoy her freedom after her horrid first marriage.

Her Ladyships Companion by Evangeline Collins - fyi, adultery is committed but your heart aches for the heroine, she was so young when she married and he is so horrid you just want her to be happy ahh spoilers anyway - Hero is a male prostitute (I blame fanfic for my love of this rare trope), he is hired by our heroines close friend who believes heroine deserves some attention in her life. She has every intention of sending him away until she meets him and everything changes. Their relationship is great until Hero realises he wants more than she can give him. He leaves and asks she not to contact for him again, yet he is summoned once more. Does he go back? Will they ever be able to have a real relationship? 🤷🏻‍♀️

When beauty tamed the beast by Eloisa James - the Hero honestly reminds me of Fitz from aos, he’s such a grump. Our hero is a doctor - an upfront and emotionless one at that. He was injured as a child resulting in a permanent limp and the use of a cane. Our heroine is beautiful, the talk of the town and allegedly pregnant having been spotted kissing a prince then throwing up after eating less than fresh prawns at a season event. The hero’s father thinks that his son will never marry or beget an heir (he believes his son impotent) and so arranges a marriage between he and the hero, believing that she is already pregnant which would provide him his heir. The hero is no fool, as a doctor he knows a stuffed pillow when he sees one. This book is packed with affairs by the beach, a spreading disease, a race against time and thunder storms. This book also includes the heroine coming to terms with what she perceives as her loss of looks, as someone who prided herself on looks alone it is such an amazing journey to see her inner thoughts. This book is great, and I really recommend it.

The Earl takes All by Lorraine Heath - I cannot put this book into words. It’s heartbreaking but it’s worth the pain.

Less angsty books include the Westcott series by Mary Balogh (all save the last, Someone to Care, I didn’t care much for the protagonists as I had grew to dislike the heroine in prior books). I’m currently re-reading this series.

Someone to Love - Anna Snow has lived at the orphanage for as long as she can remember, whilst others left once of age, she stayed on to become a teacher (alongside her best friend Joel). One day she receives a letter from a solicitor to meet him in London. She discovers she is the only legitimate heir to an aristocrat after it is revealed he committed bigotry. She is thrust into a life she could never have imagined, with the help of Avery, a handsome lord, to guide her.

Someone to Hold - Camille Westcott begins teaching in the very orphanage Anna grew up in so she can find herself - if her half sibling can live so lowly, so can she. She meets Joel, an artist who teaches art once a week - they immediately dislike each other, due to his loyalty to Anna who is his best friend and the woman he once proposed to. He admires the way she engages the children and sees something in her that Camille doesn’t see herself. There’s sparks, heartbreak and a new discovery that could change Joel’s world forever.

Someone to wed - upon inheriting the Westcott title as the closest male relative to the late Earl of Riverdale, Alexander, the penniless Earl also inherits a mansion which is in desperate need of repairing. Thankfully for him, Wren, his neighbour, has just the solution to his financial problems. Marriage. Having only met Wren, a woman who hides herself behind a dark vail, ten minutes prior, Alex is taken aback by her offer. It’s the perfect solution but why would she marry a total stranger? And what is she hiding behind the vail?

I would also recommend Anna Bradley, her writings are quite light hearted and The Firstborn by Quenby Olson (latter is a clean romance).

I hope you enjoy these recommendations anon, I have tons more if not. I must warn a majority of these are angsty and so Julia Quinn may be a good read in between books. I hope you’re able to find the trope that you like 💕🦔

[countermmorg]

1977 jesus of nazareth movie

1977 JESUS OF NAZARETH MOVIE TV

Here, Zeffirelli assembles Anne Bancroft as Mary Magdalene, James Earl Jones as Balthazar, James Mason as Joseph of Arimathea, a young Ian McShane as Judas, an experienced Laurence Olivier as Nicodemus, Christopher Plummer as Herod Antipas, Anthony Quinn as Caiaphas, Ralph Richardson as Simeon, Rod Steiger as Pontius Pilate, Olivia Hussey as the Virgin Mary and Ian Holm as the fictitious Zerah (amongst others like Claudia Cardinale, whose cameo as the Adulteress goes relatively unnoticed). Their images are shown in placards over a dusty and dry Galilee while the camera cranes from one side of the landscape to the other. Jesus of Nazareth opens with a majestic list of its stars, as if Zeffirelli is purporting a kind of cinematic divinity, the closest a film can get to a sanctified status. From the onset, there is an understanding that the grandeur of the story can only be accomplished with the grandest of players, each of whom has a key part to play at different points in Jesus’ life and ministry. Zeffirelli’s Jesus of Nazareth is a comprehensive account of the Gospel narratives, which can be viewed either in its original four parts as a 382-minute miniseries or in two parts as it is more often broadcast. The director and the production team would also have to contend with thousands of angry letters that joined Jones III’s outcry, which would eventually lead to Zeffirelli adding a post-mortem scene after the revelation of the empty tomb, a moment that at first seems rushed but would ultimately become so poignant that it leaves a lasting effect a major reason this adaptation stands the test of time where others of that period failed. Ultimately, Jones III’s issues with the project were premature, as Zeffirelli perfectly straddles a gentle humaneness between the wonderful rendition of the Parable of the Prodigal Son and a forceful mysticism (which is beautifully depicted in an orchestral fashion when Christ raises Lazarus of Bethany from the dead). This was an ambitious project - co-written by Anthony Burgess, who was famous at the time for his controversial novel A Clockwork Orange - that caused for wild responses. Bob Jones III, a protestant fundamentalist, lambasted Zeffirelli for claiming his Jesus would be “an ordinary man” who is “gentle, fragile, simple.” He would go on to denounce the project as “blasphemy” despite not having seen a single frame of Jesus of Nazareth and knowing nothing more than what the filmmaker had said in interviews.

1977 JESUS OF NAZARETH MOVIE TV

In the build up to the 1977 epic Jesus of Nazareth - Franco Zeffirelli’s adaptation of Jesus Christ’s birth, ministry and death - there was controversy and public lament regarding how the director proposed to make the four-part TV film.

[storytelers-arc]

He took her arm. “You’re only envious because I had tea. And some rather nice scones with jam and cheese.”

“Is this a sample of your famous charm?”

“Oh, I don’t waste it on just anyone.” he said with a grin. “For example, ladies I met in wardrobes, ladies who punch me in the nose, ladies who --”

Mary had to laugh. “Very well. Tell me what you learned.”

A Spy in the House (only mutuals may reblog!)

[maznanangy]

So. Got any interesting dynamics in the au? Like character ones? How are some coping with some of their friends/relatives dying? Hows relations between the bitten characters and the alive ones? Tbh i mainly wanna know abt didar and simone - amii

Dynamics and coping, well... there are a few examples:

Besides the main group there's also another group that's a found family too: Roci, Rhonda, Brody, Austin, Trishna, Scooter and Treble. They're in Toastwood since it's one of the places where there are less zombies (but that doesn't mean it isn't dangerous) and surprisingly Brody and Trishna get along well

After losing Vicky and Mindy, Whiff is now with Robby, Allan, Captain Cori, Timm and Quinn... let's say he would prefer being the one who's dead, he isn't the strong man he used to be

Kayla chose violence and her diva days are gone: she fights zombies with only her hands and one of Hank's guns she found, she's one of the loners and travels from place to place to find or hunt her own food and help those who need help. She found the hard way she had to do everything to survive

In the other hand, Dynamoe (or Moe since he doesn't care anymore that people know his true identity) goes to other group's camps just to steal their things, some things don't change with him

Lisa is also a loner and, even though it seems like it doesn't affect her parent's death, the truth is that she still believes everything is a bad dream and so she's in a constant state of denial

And for the third question: the relations between the alive and the bitten and "good" in terms that they try to keep the characters who are bitten under control; in the case of Simone she was bitten in her right feet tho it was a small bite so it isn't a big problem for now. The only inconvenience is that she can't walk with that feet (it's completely useless) so Didar has to help her travel around, the other members of their group (Petrona, Sue, Mary and James) doesn't interact with her a lot cause they know in any moment she would be completely a zombie and can cause problems to them so her only companion is Didar. That's all I have for them for the moment:]

[crimsoncityhq]

Depending on where you are in the hotel, you’ve either had a night of quickly mounting tension or a night of … relative relaxation. The blizzard still mourns outside, howling through the blanketed streets and hurling its flurries at the hotel which sways beneath your feet if you stand still for long enough. The patrons locked in their quarters can do nothing but let the rocking lull them to sleep in hopes they’ll find their ways home by daybreak. Of course, there are still plenty of winter hours to get through before the sun can peel away the darkness, and just as sleep filters in through your lashes, you hear a ‘ click. ’ Everyone around you hears it, too, and for once there’s unity in the room as the group decides as a unit to investigate. Well, save for one, who is well aware of what that click means. It comes from the bathroom, so you all venture in, and the locked door stationed by the sink swings open. Standing on the other side of the threshold—and looking just as befuddled—are your neighbors, those five in the adjacent room who look just as cold and hungry as you do. It’s a good and bad thing; you’ll have more company, more snacks to go around courtesy of the minibar and, with any luck, more friends than enemies in one place, though you still find a few idle pairs of steely eyes narrowing on you. 

In short, there’s a bright side and a not-so-bright side: each room has opened up via the bathroom to allow a bigger expanse for you and your fellow patrons to explore, though the possibility of it all leading to even more tension is too high for comfort. Still, it’s better to cozy up with nine other bodies than only four … right ? 

PART II of the Lights Out event has begun ! This part will conclude on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8TH at 9 P.M. EST. For this part of the event, your characters’ rooms have opened, allowing muses to move between the room they’ve been assigned to and the adjacent one. 

EX: Room 1 and Room 2 are now conjoined, and any character in Room 1 can interact with any character in Room 2 and vice versa. 

As a reminder, your groups are under the cut. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Admin J or Admin Amy for clarification ! ( And don’t be afraid to get some good plots cookin’—now is the time for drama ! )

ROOM #1 & ROOM #2: Arlo Flores, Fletcher Hargrave, Ira Evans, Jesse Valencia, Theodore “Teddy” Cohen, Anastasia Sahin, Billie Washington, Josephine “Josie” Leon, Mathias Attano, Taron Lynch

ROOM #3 & ROOM #4: Andrea “Andy” Perez, Asli Demir, Blythe Sweetwine, Braden Kahale, Margeaux Saint Claire, Alejandra Ruiz, Armande Ivashkov, Harlow Dumas,Jackson Marston, Lev Vasile

ROOM #5 & ROOM #6: Gwen Arnolds, Hana Faust,Jean-Jacques Baptiste De Romanet, Jessika Delmonica, Oisin Donnelly, David Sharpe, Juno Song, Layla Jiminez, Nadia James, Nicola Faust, Peyton Bridges

ROOM #7 & ROOM #8: Callan Quinn, Effie Faust, Igor Vasile, Letitia “Tia” Valentine, Rosalie Halliday, Sutton James, Addison Mckinley, Anton Volkov, Aries “Rhys” Rigsby, Cecilia Cavendish, Esmeray Demir, Lucian Faust

ROOM #9 & ROOM #10: Aslyn Walsh, Catriona O'Shea, Oliver Faust, Tulsa Jane Honey, Genevieve Bisset, Lee Malkovich, Levi Bohan, Maisie Kane, Saskia Vasile, Allison Lynch-Demir

ROOM #11 & ROOM #12: Amara Ricci, Auron Wright, Christine Li, Holden Mercer, Sloan Washington, Stefano Vitorri, Edith Cohen, Ellis Rowe, Lavrenti “Lav” Vasile, Lincoln Dawson, Silas Hale

ROOM #13 & ROOM #14: Fabian Drake Kalashnyk, Carrigan Connolly, Cassidy Faust, Monika Adler, Nicholas Krieger, Erin Cerci, Lada Antonovna, Leonid “Leo” Vasile, Rahi Kumar, Zoe Washington

ROOM #15 & ROOM #16: Abel Washington, Dominika Romanov, Faith Williams, Olivia Madden, Rosalia Leon, Cassandra Conally, Atticus Mercer, Diamond Washington, Killian Walsh, Lorelai Faust, Oakley Butler

ROOM #17 & ROOM #18: Audric Noire, Mikhail Morosov, Noah Etkin, Nova Deveraux, Viktoriya Vasile, Anatalya Vasile, Darren Murphy, Julia Faust, Konstantin Vasile, Violet Madden

ROOM #19 & ROOM #20: Davut Demir, Katarina Vasile, Veronica Pierce, Vincent St James, Zane Washington, Beauregard “Beau” Griveaud, Blair Faust, Caoilainn “Callie” Walsh, Milo Arrington, Zedekiah Vasile

ROOM #21 & ROOM #22: Dante “Sebastian” Faust, Liam Walsh, Marissa Atkinson Orion Anderson, Vitomir Kipriyanov, Andrew “Drew” Whittmore, Callum James, Ivy Ivashkov, Marie-Anne Beaulieu,  Nikolai Volkov

ROOM #23 & ROOM #24: Audrey Rousseau, Barnaby Eaton, Constansia Fournier, Edie James, Birdie Mendoza, Eleanor “Elle” Eaton, Joanna “Joey” O'Shea, Katya Ivanova, Wyatt Leon, Amelia Wolfe

[myblacknightworld]

Whelp. And here we are again. New OC guys!

P.S. I'm happy to see you again

<3

Well, this girl up here it's Johanna Ryder, Jo to friends. Well, what about her? She's a new student in Midtown Highschool of Science (YES, it's because I love Spiderman Homecoming and that smol bean that's Peter Parker, it also does help the fact that Tom Holland plays Peter. YES, he's one of my actor crushes). She's an orphan: she never knew her father (her mother had ensured it stayed a secret and everything Jo tried to find out who he was came to nothing) when she was ten her mother died during a robbery and Jo has panic attacks since then. After that she moved from a foster family to the other until she finished with Gabriel and Quinn in Queens, NY, and got saved by Spiderman during a robbery. Well, the robbery it's after Gabriel and Quinn moved from the apartment (they had rented the apartment for six months, but they had to move because of Gabriel's job and Jo didn't want to move with them and so they made a deal with the CPS (child protective services)(I don't even know if this is possible in real life but whatever. Here it is) so that Jo and one of the social workers lived there until the rent was payed off completely and so that she could finish school). She found out Peter was Spiderman because it's obvious (also, she's a genius, she has an IQ of 303). After Homecoming happened, Peter took her to the Stark Tower (in this story the Avengers Compound doesn't exist because I hate it) to know Mr. Stark because she was working to replicate the Iron-man suit and he wanted Mr. Stark to know about it. And then surprise! Jay (her A.I.) found out that Jo's DNA matched with.... *drums*... suspence... more suspence... it's gonna be obvious but more suspence... still suspence... suspence again... I'll say it, don't worry... but now, MORE SUSPENCE... *drums intensify*... Tony Stark! I said it was gonna be obvious. Well, her mother, Annabelle Ryder, was a well known scientist and she and Tony had a drunk one-night thing (but he had still been super careful about condoms and things) and here Johanna is.Well, long story short, Jo moved in with Tony and Pepper, kept attending Midtown High, kept inventing things, started to call Pepper mom after a year or so (because yes, I think Pepper's the mother hen type and acts all mother hen on every kid she crosses path with), started dating Peter (because if I was a Marvel character I would do it as well. Also I don't ship Peter/MJ (I don't like MJ, well, I like how Zendaya played her, but still). I would ship Peter/Gwen, but Gwen's not in Spiderman Homecoming, so...), etc. etc. ...

Also, I made a file about her

NAME: Ryder, Johanna “Jo” AGE: 16 BIRTHDAY: 11/11/2003  (it's an approximate date. I dunno in the MCU when's Peter Parker born?)   BLOOD TYPE: 0- POB: Austin, Texas

GENDER: Female RACE: Caucasian HEIGHT: 1,58 m WEIGHT: 45 kg

HAIR: Brown EYES: Blue/almost black (right one), black (left one) IDENTIFIABLE MARKINGS: Heterochromia

KNOWN RELATIVES: Ryder, Annabelle (mother/deceased) - Stark, Anthony Edward “Tony” (father/alive/Avenger)

FOSTER FAMILIES: John & Mary Reeds, Lucas & Peyton Scott, Matthew & Andrea Andrews, Jessamine Lucas, Beryl & Jacob Grace, Noah & Mary Ann Sawyer, Oliver & Isabella Alvarez, Anthony & Abigail DiAndrea, Delilah Rush & Roxy Sciuto, Marty & Laura Jacobs, Troy & Victoria Johnston, Gabriel & Quinn James DOCUMENT CITIZENSHIP: American

LANGUAGES: Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Danish, SKILLS: SuperGenius (Recent Q.I test 303), well versed in lots of science fields, created a functioning A.I., JAY, in 2nd grade with scraps, has her own arsenal of tech she calls J-Tech, fine hacker (hacked S.H.I.E.L.D. twice, Stark Industries, KGB, CIA, currently trying with Wakanda), knows self-defence

POWERS: None

AFFILIATIONS: Spiderman, Iron Man, Stark Industries ALIAS: None

CURRENT ADDRESS: Stark Tower, Park Av., NY

PREVIOUS ADDRESSES: Austin Texas - Chatam, Massachusets - Slidell, Louisiana - Monterey, California - Bakersfield, California - Cookeville, Tennessee - Walker, Minnesota - Clay Springs, Arizona - Seattle, Whashington - Seattle, Washington - Salina, Kansas - Santa Rosa, New Mexico - Queens, NY