#Ring in the New Year in Dubai: A Celebration Like No Other

[ardfile]

Ring in the New Year in Dubai: A Celebration Like No Other

As the world prepares to welcome another year, one destination stands out as a beacon of grandeur, festivity, and unforgettable experiences: Dubai. Known for its futuristic skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and record-breaking attractions, Dubai transforms into an extraordinary wonderland on New Year’s Eve, offering a celebration that rivals any in the world.

A Dazzling Spectacle of Fireworks Dubai's New Year's Eve fireworks are legendary. The city spares no expense in putting on a show that lights up the sky like nowhere else on Earth. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, becomes the centrepiece of this spectacle, with synchronised pyrotechnics, laser shows, and music captivating millions of spectators. Not to be outdone, other iconic landmarks like the Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab host equally mesmerising displays. Imagine standing under a canopy of dazzling lights, surrounded by cheers and music—a moment you’ll remember forever.

A Culinary Journey to Welcome the New Year Dubai’s diverse dining scene takes centre stage on New Year’s Eve. From rooftop restaurants overlooking the sparkling cityscape to beachfront venues offering gourmet feasts under the stars, the choices are endless. Indulge in Michelin-starred meals, savour international cuisines, or enjoy a festive buffet with traditional Middle Eastern lavors. Every bite is a celebration of the moment.

To book all your travel requirements, click here:

https://aviasales.tp.st/DPdjeqz1

[magics-neptunes-things]

Better With You (Prompt)

Hi guys!

This is a new prompt, sorry for the wait ♥ It was great to write with Caitlin, I was looking to it for a long time.

31. Everything always looks better when you’re with me, with Caitlin Foord

TW : A liiiiittle bit of angst maybe

___________________________________________

Looking upset, Caitlin puts her phone in the pocket of her shorts for the tenth time in fifteen minutes, attracting the intention of her mother and sister. The two women exchange a look before Jamie speaks, directly talking to her little sister.

"What do you have?"

"Nothing" grumbles Caitlin, shifting her attention to the plate of her breakfast in front of her.

The truth is, Caitlin has something. It’s been long hours since you haven’t answered her messages and your phone seems turned off since it didn’t even ring when she tried to call you. You told her you had a busy day today, but the fact that you didn’t even have time to send her a single message since like 13 hours to keep her informed of your day worries her.

The Australian decided to join her family in Australia to celebrate Christmas and New Year, after a long discussion with you. You know perfectly well how much Caitlin misses her mother and sister, being on the other side of her family’s globe must not be easy every day. You are lucky to be in the same country as your loved ones, your family being only an hour by car from London.

"Don’t make that face" said Simone gently, laying her hand on one of her youngest daughter. "She will write to you soon, I’m sure"

Caitlin gently shrugs her shoulders for a simple answer. Despite the reassurances of her family, she cannot help but feel a strange sensation in the hollow of her belly. Something isn't normal, she's convinced.

"I’m gonna go shopping in town, do you need something?"

The two young women answer in the negative, Simone takes the time to clear the table before kissing each of her daughters on the head and leaving the house. Jamie, meanwhile, decides to drag Caitlin with her to go on the beach and possibly change her mood.

An hour and a half later, you finally leave the plane you’ve been on for over 13 hours. You left London, before making a stop in Dubai during which you had to run from one end of the airport to the other to catch your second plane in time. That’s when you sent the last message to Caitlin, taking advantage of the airport wifi, before jumping on your next plane.

You didn’t hesitate long before surprising Caitlin and join her for a few days in Australia. You quickly understood the guilt she felt with the idea of leaving you in London and if your mother would have disowned you if you hadn't participated in the family Christmas, the last piece of turkey swallowed you went to London's airport to join your girlfriend.

Your girlfriend who continues to sulk despite the efforts of her sister and her sister-in-law to make her laugh. When you join your mother-in-law, she welcomes you with an embrace and a big smile. You often spoke with her when Caitlin called her on FaceTime and you met her officially at the World Cup. When Caitlin came to support you in the stands for the final, Simone and Jamie were with her. Despite England’s defeat, having Caitlin and her family to support you on top of your own family helped you console yourself a little.

"Cait' is pouting" tells you your mother-in-law with an amused smile, when you are in her car in the direction of the family's home.

You make a face and hesitate a split second to get your phone out, but your mother-in-law keeps talking.

"She’s worried about not hearing from you, but when she understands why she won’t blame you. Jamie was supposed to take her surfing, they’re still at the beach."

The idea of being able to take a shower and change before hugging your girlfriend is more than attractive, even if you have been together for a few months, you prefer to be seen to your advantage.

Caitlin being always absent when you arrive home, you hurry up to put your suitcase in your girlfriend’s room and go to take a shower. Having slept during the flight, you don't feel particularly tired and rather in line with the time it is in Australia. You just have time to get dressed and to brush your hair that Simone comes knocking gently at the door of the bathroom.

"They are here in like two minutes"

"I’m ready" you smile as you gently open the door.

According to the little plan you had fun preparing in the car, you will hide in the kitchen while the two sisters shower in turn. When Caitlin is back in the living room, her mother joins her and offers her a mischievous smile.

"I brought you something from the supermarket and I'm pretty sur you’ll like it"

"What is it?" Caitlin asks, gently frowning.

"Come and see"

Curiosity making her forget for the first time your lack of news, Caitlin gets up from the sofa and follows her mother with attention to the kitchen. In which you are sitting on the central island with a big smile. The surprise that appears on Caitlin’s face when she sees you is so big that you can’t help but laugh. Her eyes almost came out of her head.

"Surprise!" you happily sing, swinging your legs before jumping from the furniture to join her.

Still in shock, Caitlin hasn't moved an inch but her arms surround your waist when you take her in her arms.

"What are you doing here?" Caitlin stutters before releasing you to look at you.

"I wanted to visit Australia and I told myself that you would not be too bad as a local guide" you answered, shrugging your shoulders.

You see her blinking and looking at your face for a few extra seconds, like she’s hallucinating.

"Come on, kiss the girl!" tease Jamie who watched the scene from the entrance of the kitchen.

It seems to bring Caitlin back to reality, but Simone comes out of the kitchen, dragging Jamie with her to let you enjoy your reunion.

This time she takes you in her arms, in an embrace ready to break your ribs. You let her do it, of course, passing your arms around her body and pressing your face into the hollow of her neck.

"I missed you" you whisper against her skin, finding back with pleasure the smell of your girlfriend.

Caitlin shudders when your breath tickles her skin and it makes you smile. But, right after, she gently takes your face between her two hands and looks at you carefully.

"I can’t believe you’re here" she whispers

You smile softly and put your hand on her to intertwine your fingers. You obviously hoped that you coming would please her, you were even afraid that your arrival would bother her a little and that she would have preferred to spend more time with her family. But just with the way she looks at you, you know she’s happy you’re here. Maybe you don't not how happy, but you know she is.

"Can I kiss you?"

"Of course you can, since when do you even ask?" you laugh softly.

If the first kiss she gives you is tender and delicate, Caitlin gradually regains confidence. Then, when you both need to catch your breath, you have the right to have kisses all over your face, then again on your lips before she tightens you against her.

"How long will you be here?" Caitlin asks after putting a final kiss on your cheek.

"I’ll go home at the same time as you, if it's ok?"

"Of course it is" smiles Caitlin

You are interrupted by your mother-in-law who comes to inform you that the meal is ready and Caitlin grabs you by the hand to train you in the dining room. She won’t let go your hand throughout the meal, forcing you to cut your food with one hand, but it’s for a good cause. You see her roll her eyes when her sister teases her about her bad mood at the beginning of the day, but a simple glance in your direction reminds her that it was worth it.

"Do you want to go for a walk on the beach?" asks Caitlin after dinner.

You gladly accept and about twenty minutes later you arrive on the beach, hand in hand. You’ve never been to the place where Caitlin grew up, when you were there during the World Cup, you stayed in the cities where you and your team played.

You smile as you catch Caitlin staring at you from the corner of her eye and arching an eyebrow.

"What?" you ask, laughing softly.

"I’m trying to get used to the idea that you’re really here. I feel like if I stop looking at you you’re going to disappear" Caitlin says, carefully avoiding looking at you.

"As long as you’re not fed up with me, I’m not going anywhere" you tell her with a smile.

It seems to be enough for her since she releases your hand to pass her arm around your shoulders. And you take the opportunity to slip your hand into the back pocket of her shorts.

"I’ll never get tired of you, for your information"

"Good to know" you laugh softly "Was it also the case when you sulked because I didn't write to you?"

You’re only teasing her, but seeing how pouty Caitlin is, maybe it’s still a little early. Besides, she presses an accusing finger on your chest while answering.

"Don’t be an ass. I was really worried"

When you roll your eyes smiling, she frowns again.

"I thought I had pretty well prepared the ground by telling you I had a long day"

"A 14-hour day?"

"It’s not my fault if the girlfriend I chose come from the other side of the globe" you point out.

A little smile is finally back on Caitlin’s face and you put a kiss on her cheek.

You turn your attention to the landscape around you and admire the view. Fine sand and the ocean as far as the eye can see. There are fewer people than you could have imagined, but it’s not to displease you.

"I used to come here a lot with Jamie and my friends when I was a teenager" Caitlin informs you.

"It’s beautiful" you comment by letting your eyes slide on the waves on the horizon.

"I used to think so too, but today is even better. Everything always looks better when you’re with me."

You put your attention back on your girlfriend and you can’t hold back the tender and slightly amused smile on your face. The vastness of the feelings you have for this girl scares you sometimes, but other times she has an way to verbalize her own feelings that it takes your breath away. And the worst part is that she doesn’t even realize it.

Another proof again today since she seems surprised to feel your lips crashing on hers and the strength with which you kiss her. So much so that it takes her a few seconds to react and respond to your kiss. You still don’t know that this kiss will be immortalized by people who recognized you and that this photo will be on social media, but you won’t care when you realize it.

Caitlin is your girlfriend and you couldn’t be happier.

[alarici]

State of decay

Rated T, 950 words

-

In the years since the Kira case, with Near at the helm, and L and Watari long since buried in the plot beside the west wing, what was once called The Wammy’s House decays.

It takes seven years to fully dismantle the program. The youngest children need to find foster homes or new families or other, carefully vetted, well-funded programs to matriculate into. The older children are graduated and placed in the best universities around the world—set to become the everyday successes of tomorrow. Tsinghua, Juilliard, Cairo, LSE, UCLA, Tohoku, ETH Zurich, Oxford. The residual funds are allocated appropriately to make sure that everyone is well taken care of. Study funds and stipends, merit grants and insurance.

Personally, Near sees to the edge cases. Kids who, according to the headmasters and the instructors, never lived up to the promise of their aptitude testing—the weak, the attention deficit, the headcases. He speaks to each one—Do you want to live alone? Do you want to learn a skill and work? Do you want to go back to where they found you? What are your medical needs.

It’s dispassionate work that he takes on in his limited spare time. The dismantling of the program was not necessarily his idea, but he saw it to the end.

By 2024, L Lawliet has been dead for almost two decades. Enough time for a child to grow and have a child of their own. Near has no children—will never and can never—and finds this fact amusing.

At exactly 13:23 GMT on 21 October, 2024, Near celebrates a homecoming of sorts.

—

The grounds have been left to wither. The estate is unsellable—or, nobody wants to bother selling it to a Silicon valley expat or a London financier’s portfolio. After all, it was a school. Renovations would be required.

When Near is driven into town and left there—”I’ll get there from here, thank you,”—he overhears, in a quiet cafe, that the children think the mansion on the hill is haunted. “Halloween” is an American holiday that is not celebrated in England. The evening is foggy and limpid. The sky threatens an afternoon rain.

He arrives at the wrought iron gates at 15:13. He knows there is nothing for him, here. But he’s already been given this time to pay his respects. A holiday of sorts. Never in the past twenty years has he kneeled before graves. He expects he won’t today, either. There is nobody here to pay respects to. Mello is buried in an unmarked plot in a quiet district of Tokyo. The stake on the eastern edge of the property in Winchester—In Memoriam, Mihael Keehl—is growing moss. Near stops by this landmark, first. Many colleagues and coworkers, commanding officers and cadets, have died since Mello. Near has not kept track of many of their names.

Mello’s memorial has not been cared for. They stopped sending groundskeepers to the property in 2019. Near carries a book in one hand, his plastic cane in the other. He stares at the spike, leans on the arm brace, and considers the most respectful acknowledgment of this memorial. This isn’t what he came here to do. Mihael Keehl—no, Mello—has been dead for more than a decade. In that time, Near has solved more than five hundred cases. A-Kira. The Hong Kong murders. The Dubai trafficking ring. A few stray Death Notes.

In the years elapsed, the loss has simmered. Like soup, which Near has seen others make (his current boyfriend is fond of cutting the mirepoix into centimeter by centimeter cubes) the thought of Mello is turbid and wafts around him constantly. However, there is no room for the what if. There is only the course the universe bent, that day.

Near, in his own way, has paid his respect. Said his thank yous, if he owes any thanks. He bows, as far as he can manage, to the spiritless grave. He does not kneel.

In Tokyo, Mello’s bones are likely rusting, rotting in the temperate soil. Were he buried here, at 51° latitude, he may still have his skin, in death. But this is unimportant. He would not wish to be buried here.

Near bows, and says two prayers for the dead. He knows a Latin version as well as a Hebrew. To this day, he does not know if Mello died religious—died believing in any gods beyond those he had met and been scorned by.

“Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.”

“יִתְגַּדַּל וְיִתְקַדַּשׁ שְׁמֵהּ רַבָּא.”

He adds a hymn Mello might have sung for his parents in the dialect he most likely spoke before his life as a successor began.

“Святой Юмо, Святой Куатле, Святой Колыдымо, мемнам серлаге.”

Near has been told not to pass judgment on the irrationality of faith, so he has learned the hymns. The grass grows tall around Mello’s stake.

One year, Near had gotten angry about it. Back when he was twenty one or twenty two—inconsequential—and awake for forty hours, Near had raged at a silent room over it, and never again. And the anger was not about the death, nor about Near’s inheritance, his duty. Not Mello’s mistakes nor his sacrifice. Likely, looking back with the hindsight and wisdom of a man ten years older, Near images he experienced as much grief as he was capable of, that night. There was no grave to stand over, and there was no body, in the small room in Cape Canaveral when Near was twenty one. No surviving images of him. No letters nor notebooks. The bout of rage, insanity, grief (he cautions to call it) was triggered by a smell (something sweet burning), of all things. And had subsided with the yellow dawn.

The frustration was likely at being left alone. Of his own inefficacy in his first trial, and the acknowledgement that a man like Mello had deserved to live to see more days. Had deserved better than a pine wood stake on a lonely corner of the grounds of the school where he was raised and an unmarked plot in Adachi City, Tokyo.

Next, Near walks slowly towards the house itself. A jackrabbit sprints across the lawn in front of him. A hawk circles to the north. 

[ttworld25]

Dubai: The Ultimate The most desirable destination in the world Extravaganza

Click here to explore deals!

Dubai is a city that knows how to welcome the in style! With its iconic skyline, luxury experiences, and world-famous celebrations, it’s a top destination for travelers seeking unforgettable memories.

Why Visit Dubai ?

1. Spectacular Fireworks: Dubai hosts some of the most dazzling fireworks displays in the world, particularly at the Burj Khalifa and Atlantis, The Palm.

2. Luxurious Parties: From rooftop lounges to beach clubs, Dubai offers upscale like no other.

3. Cultural Blend: While it’s a modern city, Dubai’s traditional souks and desert safaris add a unique charm.

4. Winter Sunshine: Escape the winter chill with Dubai’s warm, pleasant weather in December and January.

Don’t Miss:

Desert Safari: Ring in the under the stars with a traditional Bedouin-style celebration.

Dhow Cruise: Enjoy a luxurious dinner cruise with views of Dubai’s glittering skyline.

Plan Your Trip Now: Book your flights to Dubai today and experience a New Year’s celebration like no other.

Click here to explore deals!

[mapicho25]

Dubai, UAE— A Futuristic New Year’s Eve Celebration

👉 Click here to explore Dubai travel deals.

Dubai, the glittering gem of the Middle East, is a city like no other, and it takes New Year’s Eve celebrations to an entirely new level. Known for its unmatched luxury, innovative architecture, and dazzling fireworks, Dubai has become a top destination for travelers looking to ring in the New Year in grand style. Whether you’re seeking a glamorous party, a romantic evening under the stars, or a family-friendly adventure, Dubai promises an unforgettable experience.

Why Dubai is a World-Class New Year’s Eve Destination

Dubai transforms into a magical wonderland on New Year’s Eve, offering an unparalleled mix of festivities, luxury, and stunning visuals. Here’s why Dubai is a must-visit destination for welcoming the New Year:

1. Dazzling Fireworks Displays

Dubai is renowned for its record-breaking fireworks displays, and New Year’s Eve is when the city truly shines. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, serves as the centerpiece of the celebrations, lighting up the sky with a synchronized show of fireworks, lasers, and LED projections.

Top Fireworks Spots:

Burj Khalifa: The most iconic and extravagant display in the city.

Palm Jumeirah: A spectacular fireworks show set against the backdrop of luxurious resorts like Atlantis and The Palm.

Dubai Festival City Mall: Features fireworks synchronized with fountains and laser shows.

For a unique experience, book a yacht cruise or a dhow ride to watch the fireworks from the water, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

2. Extravagant New Year’s Eve Parties

Dubai’s nightlife and celebration scene are second to none, with an array of options to suit every style and budget. From exclusive rooftop parties to desert festivities, Dubai has it all.

Top Celebrations:

Rooftop Galas: Iconic venues like Ce La Vi and Sky Views Bar host glamorous parties with panoramic views of the fireworks.

Desert Safari: Celebrate under a star-lit sky with traditional Arabian entertainment, camel rides, and a festive feast.

Beach Parties: Head to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) or Zero Gravity for lively beachfront events featuring international DJs and live music.

3. Family-Friendly Festivities

Extend Your Stay—Explore Dubai Beyond New Year’s Eve

Dubai is more than just its New Year’s Eve celebrations. Extend your trip to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, luxurious experiences, and unique attractions.

Burj Khalifa Observation Deck: Enjoy unmatched views of Dubai from the top of the world’s tallest building.

Dubai Mall: Shop at one of the largest malls in the world, complete with an aquarium and ice skating rink.

The Dubai Frame: A giant picture frame offering panoramic views of both old and modern Dubai.

Old Dubai: Explore the city’s heritage in the Al Fahidi Historical District and take a ride on an abra (traditional boat) along Dubai Creek.

For a taste of adventure, venture into the Arabian Desert for sandboarding, dune bashing, and Bedouin-inspired dining experiences.

Why Dubai is Unforgettable for New Year’s Eve

Dubai’s ability to combine luxury, innovation, and tradition makes it one of the most extraordinary places to celebrate New Year’s Eve. From jaw-dropping fireworks to exclusive parties and serene desert escapes, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Dubai ensures a New Year’s celebration you’ll never forget.

Plan Your Dubai New Year’s Trip Today

Let Dubai’s opulence and grandeur be the setting for your New Year’s Eve celebration. From affordable flights to luxury hotel packages and curated itineraries, we’re here to help you make the most of your Dubai adventure.

👉 Click here to explore Dubai travel deals.

[zebazaadi]

Celebrate New Year’s on a Fishing Yacht in Dubai: A Unique Idea

As the year comes to a close and the excitement for the New Year builds up, many people look for unique and unforgettable ways to celebrate. While traditional parties and events are always an option, why not consider something extraordinary this year? Imagine ringing in the New Year surrounded by breathtaking views, the tranquil waters of the Arabian Gulf, and the gentle rocking of a luxurious fishing yacht. Celebrating New Year’s on a fishing yacht in Dubai is a unique experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and luxury in one unforgettable night.

Why Choose a Fishing Yacht in Dubai for Your New Year’s Celebration?

Dubai is famous for its lavish lifestyle, incredible skyline, and world-class events, making it a top destination for celebrating special occasions. However, there’s something magical about spending New Year’s Eve on a fishing yacht in Dubai, where you can enjoy the city’s dazzling skyline from a unique perspective while indulging in the serene beauty of the sea.

A fishing yacht in Dubai is not only equipped with everything you need for an unforgettable experience but also offers an intimate setting for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or a special someone, this setting provides the perfect atmosphere for both relaxation and excitement.

The Experience of a Fishing Yacht in Dubai

When you board a fishing yacht in Dubai, you’re stepping into a world of luxury and tranquility. These yachts are fully equipped with top-of-the-line amenities, including spacious decks, comfortable lounges, and private cabins for those who wish to retreat in privacy. Many yachts also offer an experienced crew, including captains and crew members, who will ensure that you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable celebration.

As you sail along the coast of Dubai, you’ll have panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the luxurious resorts that line the coastline. The glittering lights of the city skyline combined with the peaceful sounds of the ocean create a perfect ambiance for welcoming the new year. For a truly magical experience, you can enjoy the Dubai New Year’s Eve fireworks display from the water—an unforgettable way to kick off the year with loved ones.

A Customized Celebration Just for You

One of the best aspects of celebrating New Year’s on a fishing yacht in Dubai is the ability to personalize your celebration. Whether you want to hire a private chef to prepare a gourmet dinner, arrange for live music or entertainment, or even set up a theme for the night, the options are endless. You can indulge in fresh seafood caught right off the boat or savor delicious dishes tailored to your preferences.

Additionally, if you're an avid fisherman, a fishing yacht gives you the opportunity to engage in a bit of fishing during the day or evening, adding an adventurous twist to your New Year’s celebration. The spacious decks also provide ample space for dancing or enjoying cocktails while taking in the beautiful views.

An Experience to Remember

New Year’s Eve is a time to reflect on the past year and make new memories to cherish for the future. Celebrating on a fishing yacht in Dubai offers the perfect mix of luxury, excitement, and tranquility, creating lasting memories that will stay with you for years to come. It’s an experience like no other, where you can disconnect from the everyday hustle and bustle and enjoy the simple pleasures of life while being surrounded by the beauty of Dubai’s waters.

So, why not step outside the box this year and celebrate New Year’s on a fishing yacht in Dubai? It’s a unique, adventurous, and luxurious way to begin the new year.

[mayratoursweb]

Explore Dubai New Year Tour Packages with Mayra Tours

The New Year is a time for celebration, reflection, and new beginnings. What better way to welcome 2025 than by celebrating in one of the world’s most dynamic and luxurious cities? With Mayra Tours’ Dubai New Year Tour Packages, you can experience the vibrant festivities of this glamorous city while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Dubai for New Year’s Eve?

Dubai is famous for its extravagant celebrations, world-class fireworks displays, and unparalleled luxury. The city's iconic landmarks, such as Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, host spectacular events, making Dubai a top destination for travelers looking to ring in the New Year with flair. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends, or a fun-filled family vacation, Dubai offers something for everyone.

What’s Included in Our Dubai New Year Tour Packages?

At Mayra Tours, we craft each package to give you the ultimate Dubai experience. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

Fireworks Spectacles: Enjoy VIP access to see the world-famous fireworks at Burj Khalifa or aboard a luxury yacht in Dubai Marina.

Luxury Accommodation: Stay in some of Dubai’s finest hotels, ensuring comfort, elegance, and breathtaking views.

Exciting Excursions: Our packages include guided tours of Dubai’s top attractions like the Dubai Mall, Burj Al Arab, and the Gold Souk. For those craving adventure, a desert safari with dune bashing and camel riding is a must!

Fine Dining and Parties: Dine at some of Dubai's best restaurants or dance the night away at exclusive parties and beach clubs.

Why Choose Mayra Tours?

Mayra Tours is dedicated to providing you with a seamless and stress-free travel experience. From personalized itineraries to round-the-clock support, we take care of every detail, so you can focus on enjoying your New Year’s adventure. Our Dubai New Year Tour Packages cater to all types of travelers, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and extraordinary holiday.

Book Your New Year Escape Today!

Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with a trip like no other! Contact Mayra Tours today to explore our Dubai New Year Tour Packages and secure your place in one of the world’s most exciting New Year celebrations. Whether it’s luxury, adventure, or relaxation you seek, we have the perfect package for you!

[qnewsau]

Rebel Wilson gives spicy details of first date with Ramona

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/rebel-wilson-gives-spicy-details-of-first-date-with-ramona/

Rebel Wilson gives spicy details of first date with Ramona

Rebel Wilson recounts her first date with her now-fiance Ramona Agruma in her new memoir Rebel Rising.

The Aussie star’s book is out next Tuesday. In it, Rebel she writes about Ramona inviting her for lunch at the Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles back in 2021.

“I’m so nervous,” Rebel writes in an excerpt via People.

“I’m also worried that if Ramona and I do hit it off, I don’t have much sexual experience with a woman.

“And I’ve only had time to read half of the Girl Sex 101 book.”

Rebel went on, “We both order food and we try to eat, but we can’t really eat anything.

“And so … well … I don’t want to embarrass Ramona, but … we instead opt to go to the bathroom and make out.

“‘I think you need to come back to my house,’ I say. I’ve never just invited someone straight back home, but I’m only in L.A. for the week.

“I take her to my bedroom. We just … connect. It feels beautiful.”

‘Why don’t you just date a woman?’

Rebel has spoken before about the meetup happened “via text by our mutual friend, Hugh Sheridan.”

“We talked about how it never quite seemed to work out with me and these ‘dudes,'” Rebel writes.

“‘Why don’t you just date a woman?’ Hugh quipped. ‘Let me connect you with my friend Ramona.'”

“Ramona and I started FaceTiming and talking on the phone — getting to know each other the old-fashioned way.”

“In true Hollywood rom-com style, I jumped on a plane to fly halfway around the world to LA to meet Ramona.”

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Rebel Wilson (@rebelwilson)

The couple are mums to daughter Royce Lillian, and on Valentine’s Day 2023 Rebel proposed to Ramona at Disneyland.

Rebel kept the moment secret until Ramona “sees the pastel rose petals all over the ground and the roses in vases.”

“I tell her how special she is to me. And then I get down on one knee and open the ring box,” Rebel writes.

“I end with ‘So in this cliché way, on this cliché day, Ramona Agruma, will you marry me?’ ‘Yes,’ she says through the tears streaming down her face.”

Rebel lost her virginity at age 35

Rebel also gets candid about her sexuality in her new book, including revealing she lost her virginity at age 35.

She told People she hopes that sharing her personal story will send a “positive message” to others and reassure young people that “not everybody has to lose their virginity as a teenager.”

“Normally I would just leave the room when the conversation was happening,” she recalled.

“And then the people that said, ‘Oh, at 24, it’s so late.’ And then I’m sitting here thinking, ‘Oh my God, my number’s 35. What the hell? I’m going to look like the biggest loser.’

“There was one vague time, I think I told my best friend, ‘Oh, yeah, I just did it to just get it over with when I was like 23.’ Just to really avoid the questions.”

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Rebel Wilson (@rebelwilson)

Rebel said if she had been born 20 years later, she probably would’ve explored her sexuality more.

“I just knew I was attracted to men, and that was the normal thing,” recalls Wilson.

“After my father’s death I started opening myself up probably more. Even though I’d seen marriage as a terrible thing and waste of time, I started opening myself up to that.

“And then only years later, meeting women and having feelings for a woman, and that, I just think it’s a sign of where society kind of was.”

More about Rebel Wilson:

Rebel Wilson names ‘a**hole’ Sacha Baron Cohen in new book

Rebel comes out and reveals new girlfriend

Reporter whines Rebel outed herself before he could

‘Beautiful miracle’: Rebel Wilson celebrates birth of first child

Rebel Wilson cops backlash over promo for anti-gay Dubai

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[reefandbeef]

Ring in the New Year with Unforgettable Flavors and Dazzling Views of Burj Khalifa

As the clock ticks towards a new beginning, join us at Reef & Beef for a New Year's celebration that goes beyond the ordinary. Elevate your dining experience with a culinary extravaganza set against the backdrop of the world-renowned Burj Khalifa fireworks display. 

Why Reef & Beef? 

1. Skyline Symphony - Feast for the Senses 

Front-Row Seat to Burj Khalifa Fireworks: Indulge in a visual feast with unparalleled views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks. Our strategic location offers you a front-row seat to the most mesmerizing display in Dubai, turning your evening into a sensory delight. 

Luxurious Setting: Luxuriate in our contemporary interior adorned with warm lighting and natural elements, creating an ambiance that not only complements the dazzling fireworks but enhances the overall dining experience. 

2. Culinary Excellence - A Symphony of Steak and Seafood

Best Steakhouse in Dubai: Proudly recognized as the best steakhouse in Dubai, our culinary expertise matches the grandeur of the Burj Khalifa fireworks. Each dish, meticulously crafted with the finest cuts of meat and freshest seafood, is a masterpiece that adds to the celebration. 

3. Contemporary Elegance Meets Cozy Vibes 

Capture Every Moment: Experience the perfect blend of modern Dubai glam and warm tones, providing an Instagram-worthy setting. Every corner is a photo opportunity, ensuring you can capture the magic of the fireworks and the joy of the New Year celebration. 

Exclusive New Year's Event - Your Invitation to Indulgence! 

Join us for a New Year's celebration like no other! Indulge in a specially crafted menu, featuring our signature dishes and festive delights, all while enjoying the unmatched spectacle of the Burj Khalifa fireworks. Revel in live music, enchanting ambiance, and the joy of welcoming the New Year with a front-row view of the dazzling fireworks display. 

Book Your Table Now - Limited Seats Available! 

This New Year's Eve, make a statement with Reef & Beef. Limited seats are available for this exclusive event, so secure your table now and ensure your spot in an evening of culinary excellence, glamour, and front-row views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks. 

Explore Our New Year's Event Packages - Click Here! 

Cheers to a New Year, Front-Row Views, and Culinary Delights!

[yachtrentaldu]

Event Yachts That Will Make Your Special Occasion Unforgettable

Imagine celebrating your special day surrounded by Dubai's glittering skyline and the tranquil waves of the Arabian Gulf. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Well, it doesn’t have to be! You can bring this fantasy to life with the perfect event yachts in Dubai.

Whether planning a birthday bash, a corporate event, or even a dreamy wedding, a yacht in Dubai is just right for you. The best part? It's easier and more inexpensive than you think. From cheap yacht rental Dubai options to premium luxury experiences, you're guaranteed to find something that fits your needs and budget.

Now, are you ready to dive into the sea of unforgettable memories? Keep reading to discover the top yachts that can make your special occasion extraordinary!

1. The Classic Beauty: Perfect for Weddings

A classic yacht with a timeless design is the go-to option for wedding celebrations. From the deck to the dining area, everything exudes elegance. With a comprehensive yacht charter Dubai package, you can get customized decorations and a professional photography service to capture your special day.

2. The Party Animal: Ideal for Birthdays and Celebrations

If you love pumping bass and neon lights, then the Party Animal yacht is for you. These party yachts have state-of-the-art sound systems, disco lights, and a DJ booth. You can dance the night away while sailing through the iconic landmarks of Dubai.

3. The Corporate Cruiser: Your Business Meetings Reimagined

Tired of stuffy conference rooms and PowerPoint presentations? Take your corporate gatherings to the next level with a Corporate Cruiser yacht. These yachts provide a unique blend of business and pleasure, offering meeting rooms, projectors, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Now, that’s how you make yacht events truly memorable!

4. The New Year’s Eve Spectacular: Ring in the New Year in Style

Can you imagine a better way to welcome the New Year than under a sky full of fireworks in the middle of the ocean? The New Year's Eve Spectacular yacht is tailored specifically for yacht rental new years eve dubai celebrations. With a midnight toast, live music, and an unobstructed view of the fireworks, this yacht promises a one-of-a-kind celebration.

5. The Formula 1 Fanatic: Speed and Luxury Combined

Are you a fan of high-speed races and luxury? Then look no further than the Formula 1 Fanatic yacht. Designed for yacht rental Formula 1 events, this yacht gives you a front-row seat to all the high-speed action without compromising luxury. Sit back and enjoy the race, along with gourmet meals and top-notch amenities.

Conclusion

There you have it! Five different yachts to suit five different kinds of special occasions. Each of these yachts offers an experience that is as unique as it is unforgettable. Whether it's your wedding, birthday, or any other special event, these yachts promise to make your celebration extraordinary.

Ready to set sail? Head to Yacht Rental Dubai to book the perfect yacht for your occasion. From yachts for sale in Dubai to all-inclusive rental packages, we offer various options to meet your needs. After all, life's special moments deserve nothing less than the extraordinary.

[justall-star]

Read This To Know About The MVP All Star Game

Later this month in Cleveland, one of the NBA's best players will hold the MVP All Star Game trophy above his head, presumably to uproarious applause from a sold-out swarm.

However, that trophy's excursion to its festive, nationally televised payoff began two miles east of downtown Los Angeles, inside an unremarkable strip-mall studio that is encircled by an overwhelming chain-connect wall that stands taller than Yao Ming.

Visitors should walk through a pair of locked ways to find Victor Solomon, a loop-fixated artist who has gone through the past two years reimagining the NBA's trophies with a thorough creative interaction that has transformed his pencil draws into two-dimensional schematics, three-dimensional models, and, finally, completely cut trophies.

The gleaming fruits of those labors were made public Thursday, when the NBA unveiled a new collection of awards that will be introduced during All-Star Weekend, headlined by a completely redesigned Kobe Bryant MVP All Star Game trophy.

In addition to the Bryant trophy, which pays tribute to the Los Angeles Lakers legend with its design details, the NBA has revealed the new rings that each all-star will receive.; new trophies for the slam dunk contest, the three-point contest, the abilities challenge, and the celebrity game; and new medals for the winners of the Rising Stars Challenge.

"NBA trophies have been all over the place up until this point and as bland as I'd like to think," said Solomon, who works with the league as a licensee.

"We tossed everything out and started from scratch. Part of my advantage in evolving the trophies was to create something more emblematic of the strength and creativity of the players who are winning these awards.

These folks are probably the smartest and esthetically engaged individuals on the planet, and we were giving them some afterthought, off-the-rack trophy."

For a long time, the MVP All Star Game trophy has paled in comparison to the NBA's most coveted awards, for example, the Larry O'Brien championship trophy and the Bill Russell Finals MVP honor.

Early versions of the All-Star Game MVP trophy, dating from the 1950s and 1960s, featured everything from a player puppet atop a large cup to a layered wooden design with a player dunking atop a gold basketball.

By 1969, the trophy was a straightforward gold basketball atop a wooden base, yet gaudy trophies that incorporated multiple player statues returned during the 1970s.

The NBA changed to smaller, handheld trophies bearing the league's logo in the early 1980s.

In 1986, the NBA went to a clear circle design that lasted until 2021, with just unobtrusive updates and modifications along the way.

The latest version bore a colorized version of the NBA logo atop a black base. The old trophy — which was given to Bryant, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O'Neal, Tim Duncan, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant, among other A-listers — could be mistaken for a suburban car dealership's salesman of the month award.

The new Kobe Bryant Trophy stands 31 inches tall, weighs approximately 15 pounds, and features endless recognitions for Bryant and the MVP All Star Game history.

The trophy's black base is made out of eight sides to address Bryant's early-career jersey number and the event's eight decades of history.

There are 18 stars along the base, one for each of Bryant's MVP All Star Game choices, and a "Cleveland 2022" logo is scratched into the base's underside.

Atop the base sits an ascending, four-level, crystal-like trophy that evokes a champagne bottle or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

The main level bears 24 stars, addressing Bryant's late-career jersey number and the 24 players who will appear in the midseason showcase.

The subsequent level is topped with 10 stars, addressing Bryant's USA Basketball jersey number and the game's 10 starters.

The third level has five stars, gesturing to Bryant's five titles and the standard five-man basketball team.

Finally, the fourth level ascents into a solitary star, addressing Bryant's 2008 MVP All Star Game award and the All-Star Game's top performer.

[miekasa]

mie!! i’m so late to the party but i absolutely loved ‘NICE’, it made me feel so warm and fuzzy <33 it’s so unique to its own and the flow of it is beyond wonderful!

what is married life like for oc and eren in ‘NICE’? is it just like before/do you have any nice!husband!eren headcanons?

AHH I’m so happy you liked it and that you took the time to come and tell me!! Married life for them... doesn’t really differ from what their lives looked like before actually hehe. They were basically married without knowing it 🙄🙄 idiots to lovers or something like that; but here are a few head canons of the months immediately following NICE!

You officially got married in Paris on the fourth, not too long after Carla’s wedding. You guys flew in some officials, checked through all the technicalities, and signed the papers right on top of the Eiffel Tower (access granted by the city of Paris upon request of one Carla Jaeger, of course). 

Aside from having the most picturesque location in the world to sign your marriage certificate, there wasn’t anything lavish in celebration after that. Carla’s wedding was just three days earlier, after all, and was still the talk of the local press. You did have a small party with your friends (Jean, Armin, Mikasa, Marco, Erwin, Levi, Hange came from the Alps for Carla’s wedding) in your overly large hotel room. Just some music, room service, and lots and lots of champagne.

Eren extended your winter break vacation by two weeks for an impromptu honeymoon to the Bahamas before you went home. Let’s just say you did not leave the safe haven of your hotel room very often, except to dip into the ocean a few nights (benefits of a private beach).

After getting married, the rings swapped places; the band with diamonds previously on your pointer finger was put on a chain (a new one since Eren threw the other one on the ground 💀), and you now wear the engagement ring on your ring finger.

Eren doesn’t like it when you take off the ring (the ring being the engagement ring). The first time you were going into the water, you were going to put it on the chain for safekeeping, but he protested very strongly. He would rather it rest safely in your suitcase than go around your neck again.

Your wedding bands are actually very similar to the band you already have: gold and diamond encrusted. Eren’s, however, has an emerald in the center, like the two emeralds that serve as the pistils of the sunflowers in your engagement ring (for reference, that ring looks something like this, but with a gold band). The bands were the first thing Eren bought when you guys got home.

Your friends in Dubai (Ymir, Reiner, Annie, Connie, Sasha) had no idea that you and Eren got married over winter break. Safe to say they were all… very surprised to hear the news. Connie was a little bit bitter because he missed it, and wolf whistles every time he sees your ring (even though he’s seen it before because you wore it on the necklace every day).

You got married in January, but have an official wedding in the process of being planned sometime around late summer/early fall. Carla insisted that you guys have a wedding despite already being married, and Eren agreed whole heartedly. They are both very into planning it, and yes, Eren is somewhat of a bridezilla, and his mom is enabling him 100% please.

The night you signed the wedding papers, Carla lent you an off-white satin couture gown from one of her past collections. She is designing and making your official wedding dress by hand, with the help of Mikasa.

The two of them are also making Eren’s suit, and all the outfits for your wedding party. Carla will murder you if you even so much as hint at just buying other suits/dresses. This is her baby’s wedding, and she runs one of the most renowned fashion houses of the modern century; she’ll be damned if you guys wear something off the rack.

You considered a destination wedding, but settled on having it in New York. You haven’t decided a location yet, and it’s the one thing Eren isn’t actually picky about (because you know he’s gonna go ham on the decor no matter where it is bye).

Jean doesn’t know it yet, but he’s your maid of honor. Good luck and best of wishes to Eren picking between Mikasa and Armin for best man.

Even before confessing and getting married, Eren never slept much in his own bedroom. You both have California king sized beds in your rooms, and more often than not, Eren would sleep with you in your bed. You didn’t always cuddle, but he just liked to be there (for your presence, and because he was grossly in love bye)… you ended up cuddling a lot of the time tho.

He wants to renovate your apartment now that you both “officially” live in the same bedroom, even though it’s not necessary. He just likes renovating things.

You guys go to dinner every weekend, and sometimes you even go dancing. Eren still can’t dance and he doesn’t actually care to learn; it just reminds him of being in Nice with you.

He kisses your ring finger every morning waking up and every night before going to bed; sometimes he even does it subconsciously in his sleep.

He holds your hand way more often. Not just because you guys are together now, but because he likes seeing the ring where it’s meant to be. He also notices that it helps to curb your anxiety, which is a good bonus.

Eren wants kids, but he hasn’t really brought it up yet. He knows you both are fairly young, and that you’re still technically in school, but that’s not really a deterrent for him.

The only reason he’s waiting to say something is because you guys have a lot going on with wedding planning and settling in to “married life”—there’s a lot of tedious paperwork to be done and documents to update. He’ll bring it up next year when all that is settled.

On the subject of school, you are still attending university, but have been eligible for graduation for a year now. You had enough credits to graduate last (the year before NICE) December, but there were a few more classes you wanted to take out of interest that hadn’t been running in past years, so you stayed for all four years. Eren picks you up from your lectures.

Eren graduated in December before you guys went on vacation. By normal standards, that’s a semester early. However, he was supposed to be in this Honors Arts and Sciences program, that should have taken him another two semesters. He decided it wasn’t worth it, and dropped the honors part, and with that, had enough credits to graduate, so he did.

A college degree is really more of an accessory for him anyway, and school was never his thing. He’s decently smart, sure, but he never enjoyed school because of the emphasis on exams; he’s more of a creative person, a dreamer if you will. The only reason he even went to Columbia was because you decided to go there. 

He and you both have enough money to live more than comfortably if neither of you decided to get a job after graduation… way more than enough/ But Eren isn’t doing nothing; he’s actually sorta been working his way into the world of professional interior design, and he really loves it. You’re proud of him, and more than anything, happy that he decided to go for something he loves.

Armin and Jean also graduated a semester early. Armin’s been living with Mikasa since Connie got his own place off-campus in January. Jean is a little upset blondie is living with his girlfriend before he is, but it’s whatever 🙄if it’s gonna be anyone, at least it’s Armin. 

Carla mentioned that Eren got married sometime during a NYFW interview (along with talking about her own recent marriage), and since then you both have interviewed for two magazines, one of which featured pictures from your smaller party in Paris. You’ve gotten requests from Vanity Fair and Vogue about your bigger wedding later in the year, but you guys haven’t invited any media officials as of yet.

You and Eren attend the MET Gala almost every year. You don’t walk the red carpet and nobody is scrambling to take your pictures; but you have passes because of Carla. Also, you could just buy your way in if you wanted you (and your friends have in the past). This year, Eren had to pay two security officers $10k in bribes because you two snuck away to fuck in… a part of the museum not sectioned off for the event. Whoopsies.

Even before Eren got him arrested, going out to brunch was kind of your and Armin’s thing. Eren insists he should be invited now that he’s your husband. He is not. (His bitterness grows when he learns that Jean has secured himself an invite somehow).

Eren sold the car he got arrested for drag racing in. He never told you why—and as far as transportation goes, it wasn’t a big deal because you guys have other cars—but, to him, it was a kind of symbol. He thinks it’s dumb if he thinks too long about it, but he just didn’t wanna have that there are a reminder of how he’d hurt you and his mom.

Jean still drives you to your therapy appointments, but now Eren picks you up. Eren also goes to therapy himself, and has been before you guys got married; his therapist says he’s undoubtedly happier in recent sessions… like a weight’s been lifted off his shoulder.

As far as drugs go, there’s, of course, weed on a happy occasion, or at a party; but he hasn’t touched coke since that one time (which was also the first time he’d ever done it). That’s not even him being a changed man, he just didn’t like it—he only argued with you about it because he was being stubborn. He’s more of a drinker than anything, and absolutely loves to get you drunk on a special occasion, too; he always has. He thinks you look cute, and he likes taking care of you.

You have lived in that apartment with Eren for years before marrying him, yet he insisted you needed to christen the place like it was brand new… at this point, the only places you haven’t fucked in are the elevator itself, the foyer, the storage closet, and the pool. The latter only because it’s been too cold in NYC… trust and believe pool sex is coming lmfao.

Eren bought the apartment and renovated and designed it, but he never did like being in it all alone, and that’s been magnified since you got married. If he’s there by himself, he’s usually in the living area, napping on the daybed. He waits for your faithfully every day, and is hardly in the bedroom if you’re not.

Eren has not stopped introducing you as his wife since January. Even to people in passing like cashiers and bartenders, everyone in the whole damn city probably knows you guys got hitched.

[emma-what-son]

We have long lived in the age of paparazzi, yet the public in general is ignorant about the reality of how these images are created. Many people believe that freewheeling photographers happen to stumble across reality TV stars working out in full makeup, or musicians walking very slowly to their cars outside five-star hotels, or soap actors frolicking in the surf in Dubai. What the public does not see: the paparazzi who go on holiday with celebrities; the agents who have paparazzi on speed dial; the paparazzi who give a cut of their income to the people they photograph.

But recent months have seen the paparazzi thrust, blinking and unwilling, into the spotlight. In the recently concluded “Wagatha Christie” libel case, text messages were submitted to the court in which Rebekah Vardy and her former agent Caroline Watt discussed tipping off the photo agency Splash News about the arrest of the footballer Danny Drinkwater, as well as arranging for a paparazzo to photograph – without their consent – a group of footballers’ partners leaving a restaurant during the 2018 World Cup. (Splash News and Backgrid are the leading photo agencies in the industry, responsible for most of the images sold into newspapers and magazines.)

Meanwhile, the public mania for paparazzi shots continues to grow. In January, the pop star and beauty entrepreneur Rihanna announced her pregnancy with a set of staged photographs showing her walking with her boyfriend, the rapper A$AP Rocky, in Harlem, New York City. In March, the internet went into a paroxysm of nostalgia when Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck recreated a scene from Lopez’s 2002’s music video Jenny from the Block for the benefit of a conveniently positioned photographer with a long-lens camera. In June, Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling were snapped looking like a nightmare in neon while filming the much-awaited Barbie film on Venice Beach, Los Angeles.

“I think a lot of people are quite dumb to how it works,” says the Manchester-based paparazzo Aaron Parfitt. “People think we are scumbags hanging out of trees. But these celebrities are ringing us.” He estimates that 80% of his shots are set up in advance. “I’ve been on holiday with celebrities,” says Parfitt, 22. “Most of them are reality stars. We go to Spain, shoot six bikini sets and stick them out throughout the month.”

A culture of omertà prevails. “No one wants to talk about it,” says Malin Andersson, a 29-year-old influencer and mental health podcaster from Bedfordshire. “But I have done it. I openly admit to that.” After leaving Love Island in 2016, she routinely posed for arranged shots. “It was so fucking weird,” she says. “I’d pretend to be on my phone. I felt so awkward doing it. But then it became a norm.”

Fellow Love Island alumna Rachel Finni, 30, remembers the moment she was inculcated into this secret practice. She was having dinner with a minor celebrity, having just left the show. “He said: ‘I am going to text the pap guy.’” Finni was confused. “He said: ‘Honey, paps only come if you call them!” Over the next few months, she routinely let paparazzi know her plans. “Seeing yourself in the papers and magazines every other day is the most incredible feeling,” she says.

Finni and Andersson are not alone. “When you come off Love Island, you have a year to cash in until the next season,” says Jesal Parshotam, 32, a paparazzo who works in London and LA. “The people who make it are the ones who are regularly appearing on MailOnline. Love Islandpeople go out to be photographed. They have their guy.”

It is not only lower-tier stars who contact paparazzi routinely. “Kim Kardashian has a unique relationship with the paparazzi,” says Emily Rose, whose pop culture podcast It’s Become a Whole Thing dissects the relationship between celebrities and paparazzi. Kardashian has admitted to seeking out paparazzi when she was up-and-coming; she is understood to work with favoured photographers.

Rihanna has a close relationship with the paparazzo Miles Digg, who shot her pregnancy reveal photos. “He is trusted,” says Parshotam. “She’s worked with him for over 10 years. If we’re in a crowd of 10 photographers, I’ve seen her stop and hug him.”

Whether A-lister or otherwise, the reason that celebrities notify paparazzi of their whereabouts is the same. “It’s an exposure game,” says Chad Teixeira, the chairman of the celebrity PR firm Daddy the Agency. “It’s about keeping relevant.” Teixeira often contacts paparazzi on behalf of his clients. “What everyone has to remember is that everyone is just doing their job,” says Teixeira. “Celebrities need paps to promote their profiles. Papers need celebrities to earn an income. One can’t exist without the other.”

For lower-tier celebrities, being papped regularly helps them to increase their social media following and secure brand work. Higher-tier celebrities are papped while on promotional tours for their latest project. “A common trope is famous people who are usually fairly reclusive suddenly being photographed every day canoodling with their new love, who happens to be a co-star in their movie,” says Rose. Other times, paparazzi are used to rehabilitate a celebrity’s public image after a controversy. “I know one high-profile footballer who’d had an affair,” says Parshotam. “He organised pictures of him holding hands with his family, to take the heat off the story.”

If the public has a basic understanding of paparazzi, it goes something like this: paparazzi are the cruel men, usually bald, who hounded Britney Spears to a breakdown. “I was definitely a part of that,” says 53-year-old Giles Harrison, an industry veteran who lives in LA. “That was one of the darker times in the industry.” As such, paparazzi are commonly despised. “We’re hated more than traffic wardens,” says Jaimie Harris, 31, a paparazzo turned picture editor from Essex. “People used to shout at me: ‘You killed Princess Diana!’” In her decade-long career, Harris saw much reprehensible behaviour. “High-speed chases,” she says. “All of us would go through red lights.”

The period 2004 to 2016 was a “golden era”, Harrison says. “That’s when we were making more money than we knew what to do with.” His company generated about $1.5m annually in picture sales. In the UK, the Leveson inquiry heard evidence in 2011 from witnesses including Sienna Miller, who said she was spat at and verbally abused by photographers, and JK Rowling, who said that paparazzi targeted her daughter’s primary school. But most paparazzi insist that the bad old days of Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Charlotte Church et al being taunted and harassed are in the past. “When people think of paparazzi, they think of that Britney Spears gold rush era,” says Parshotam. “But that photography was disgusting and doesn’t exist any more. We are all against it.”

With the advent of social media, margins have been squeezed. Newspapers and magazines are less willing to pay for photographs when they can lift them from Instagram for free. Celebrities unhappy about being papped can upload an image of themselves on to social media, killing the value of a paparazzi photograph. While photo sets of rarely spotted A-listers still sell for tens of thousands of pounds, mostly paparazzi make no more than a few hundred pounds at a time. “I know so many people who are giving it up or struggling,” says Harris.

Because there is less money at stake, paparazzi have calmed down. “It’s not the feeding frenzy it once was,” says Harrison. “When people can get tens of thousands of dollars for a shot, it can make people bloodthirsty.” That is not to say that intrusive behaviour does not take place. While Parshotam says he wouldn’t take someone’s photo if they asked him not to, Parfitt and Harris have done so. “I think if you’re following someone, doing covert pictures out and about, that’s fair game, even if they don’t know you are there,” says Harris. “That’s what paps are there to do. We’re there to take pictures.”

Many A-listers have reached an accommodation with the people who take their images. “Celebrities understand the benefits of it now,” says Parshotam. Harrison agrees. “It’s a lot less adversarial. As much as people overtly seem to dislike the paparazzi and the product, behind the scenes, people like it and embrace it.” This is not to say that all A-listers call the paparazzi on themselves. As a rule of thumb, the more famous someone is, the less likely they are to do this, although there are high-profile exceptions.

But when celebrities are spotted in public, most don’t mind having their photos taken, says Parshotam. “The other day, I photographed [the American model] Hailey Bieber,” says Parshotam. “I asked if it was OK to take some pictures and she said: ‘Give me a minute.’ When she was ready, I took them. I made sure there were none of her looking bad, none with her eyes closed.”

The A-listers who aren’t OK with paparazzi? Adele. Prince Harry. David Beckham. Woman-of-the-moment Coleen Rooney varies, says Parfitt. “If you get her on a good day, she doesn’t mind,” he says. “On a bad day, she tells you to fuck off.” Those who want to avoid being papped know to avoid notorious celebrity hangouts such as Carbone in New York or Chiltern Firehouse in London. “The people who want to be seen will be seen,” says Harris.

By contrast, celebrities desperate to stay newsworthy may resort to degrading antics. In 2016, Parfitt photographed a former Big Brother contestant posing naked on Blackpool beach. “She messaged me on Twitter and said: ‘I have an idea. What if I go skinnydipping on Blackpool Beach?’” he says. “I picked her up and she went on the beach and started stripping off and rolling around in the sand.” The images went viral. “She loved them. It got her back in the press, put it that way.”

But other celebrities grow tired of the hamster wheel. “You’d be going to events just to get papped,” says Andersson. “That’s how sad it was. And so was everyone else. The next day, you’d look at the Mail to see if you were on there and you’d feel inadequate if you weren’t.” When flashes start to illuminate other, fresher talents, the sense of loss can be crushing. “Seeing myself in the Mail gave me validation, but it was empty validation. Because the article would drop down in five minutes and you’d want the next one. It becomes a bit of an addiction and you start chasing it more.”

The issue with inviting paparazzi to photograph your life, says Finni, is that you start to think of everyaspect of your life, even your darkest moments, as monetisable moments. “You see people who have gone through traumatic events who are in the Mail the next day,” she says. “You think: you’re going through something so disturbing, but you called someone to come to take a picture of you?Where do you lose the sense of value of your own privacy? What message are you giving out to people who follow in your footsteps, in terms of stepping into the spotlight?” Andersson and Finni no longer arrange paparazzi shots. “It doesn’t do anything for me, but to remind people I exist,” says Finni. “And how does it benefit me to remind people I exist? It’s so empty.”

Everyone in this ecosystem is required to perform a complicated charade. Celebrities pretend they haven’t contacted paparazzi; photographers accept the public’s dislike as a necessary price for doing their job. “I’ve had people walking past going: ‘Leave them alone!’” says Parfitt. “And I’m thinking: they rang me to shoot these pictures. But celebrities can’t be seen to be working with paps. So they have to say: ‘It’s fine – I’m used to it.’” They partake in this unholy dance because it is considered unforgivably gauche to seek fame, rather than to stumble upon it en route to another destination. “We hold our hands up and say: ‘It’s set up,’” says Harris. “It’s the celebrities themselves who are embarrassed about it.”

The public partakes in this collective denial, too. As much as we heckle paparazzi in the street and pontificate about the invasion of privacy, we consume these images voraciously. Indeed, the market wouldn’t exist without customers. Harris says: “People moan: ‘Leave them alone!’ but they’re the ones looking at the pictures.”

[lumelii]

BREAKING IN ~|~ FUSHIGURO TOJI X FEM!READER

Summary: Your business partner and you are celebrating the end of a difficult project. Lucky you. 

Content Warning: nsfw, smut, fwb situation, FEM!READER established "relationship", dilf!Toji, face fucking, slight degradation, face slapping (just once) (if I forgot any let me know)

Note: Big thank you to Moni and @shokami for being my guinea pigs on this one. 

Word Count: 5.1k

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There were few things Toji liked about traveling for work. He liked seeing new places. He hated long plane rides. Hotels were nice, but sleeping on the mattresses for too long wreaked havoc on his back. He enjoyed making new business connections. Most importantly, however, he hated leaving his kids for long periods.

They were on his mind now, as he checked his phone periodically through the business party he was attending, celebrating the completion of another building Fushiguro Design Group had planned and engineered, this time in New York City. It was almost time for them to go to school in Tokyo, usually one of them called before they left so he knew they were up. His finger paused over the home phone contact for a moment before he put it away with a sigh. Megumi and Tsumiki were both teenagers now, almost in high school. They didn’t need him hovering all the time.

“Congratulations on another success, Mr. Fushiguro.” One of the executives of the company who contracted the firm came up to shake his hand. “You really outdid yourself this time.”

“It was a group effort.” His eyes searched the room, hoping to find a distraction to get him out of this conversation before he put his foot in his mouth. He didn’t deal with clients, he had employees who did that. He wasn’t great at curtailing his frustrations when in conversation. Especially with this client, who changed their design at least four times, which meant he had to redo all the math. Four times.

Luckily, his distraction came just a few seconds later as his phone began to ring. Looking at the caller ID, he felt a wave of relief seeing his home phone number. At least that meant one of the kids was up. He wasn’t counting on Gojou.

“Please excuse me.” Toji stepped away and walked out onto the balcony just off the ballroom, closing the door securely behind him before answering.

“DAD!” He held the phone away from his ear just slightly when Tsumiki yelled even before he said hello. He brought it back to his ear once he was sure his eardrum wouldn’t be ruptured.

“Good morning to you too, princess.” He answered sarcastically. “How are you? Getting ready for school?”

“Megumi stole my notebook again!”

“I did NOT!” Toji heard Megumi yell in the background.

“It had my homework in it! If I don’t get it back, the teacher is going to dock points!”

“Did you already look in your backpack? Everywhere in your room?”

“No, because Megumi took it!”

“Princess, look in your backpack and your room first. If you can’t find it, have Gojou help you. Now give the phone to Megumi.”

He heard her huff and set the receiver down, yelling for Megumi to get on the phone. A few moments later, the receiver was picked up again. This time, Megumi’s voice. “Hi Dad.”

“I swear to god, Megumi, if you have her notebook and you’re lying about it just to bother her—” Toji warned.

“I’m NOT!” He yelled again. “I was over at Yuuji’s house last night anyway, why would I need her homework when we did ours together?”

“Why weren’t you home last night?” Toji’s eyes narrowed even though his son couldn’t see him. “It’s a school night.”

“Yuuji and I were working on homework. Plus his neighbor made sweets. She sent some home with me. I’ll save you some. Are you coming home soon?” His tone was hopeful. It made Toji’s chest hurt. He missed his family.

“I’m going to be on the first flight back tomorrow morning, I promise.” Toji told him. “Are you ready for school?”

“Not yet. I can’t find my slacks.”

“Look on the right side of your closet, they’re probably in there. Where’s Gojou? Can you put him on the phone?”

“I think he’s still sleeping.” The phone was set down again, and Toji had to wait what felt like forever until he finally heard Gojou grumbling on the other end of the line.

“G’morning sunshine.” He yawned. “What’s up?”

“Are you aware the kids are ready to tear each other’s throats out?” Toji frowned. “And why are you still sleeping? They’re almost ready to leave for school.”

“Kento was on the phone late last night freaking out, I had to calm him down.” Gojou stifled a yawn again. “I made sure they have their breakfast and their school stuff is ready.”

“Tsumiki’s missing her notebook.”

“It was in the living room last I saw, I’ll make sure one of the dogs didn’t take it.”

“I KNEW IT!” Tsumiki screeched in the background.

“Shit, I have to go, Toji. Call later.”

The line went dead before Toji could ask any questions. He looked down at his lock screen with a frown, debating on calling back but ultimately deciding against it while he put his phone away. He would call later once both kids were at school, and keep an eye out for breaking news of fratricide in Tokyo.

He looked to the balcony doors when they opened, relaxing slightly when he saw his preferred distraction walking out with two drinks in hand. 

You closed the door behind you before walking up to him, holding out his favorite, an Old Fashioned. “I thought I’d find you out here.”

He took the proffered drink and downed it in one gulp while you sipped your Gibson carefully. “Am I that predictable?”

“When it comes to these kinds of parties, yes. Either you were about to lose your temper and needed a breather, or you had to take a call.” You answered. “Problems at home?”

Toji shook his head. “Just wish we were back.”

“It’s been a month. I can’t wait to get back to Tokyo. No matter what anyone says, no one can beat Tokyo ramen.” You leaned your elbows on the balcony railing. He leaned next to you, copying your pose while you both looked over the glittering New York skyline in silence.

“Why don’t we focus on projects at home for a while?” You offered. “Or in Japan, at least. That way we wouldn’t have to be gone for too long, you’d still be able to go home at night.”

“We have some pretty big clients lined up in Dubai and Europe. I don’t think they’d want to wait until we felt like traveling again.”

“You’re the boss. If you don’t want to go, you don’t have to.” You reminded him with a smile. “I can take someone else with me, then send the specs once we’re done. I’ll even let you pick your stand-in.”

“I’ll pick my stand-in whether you like them or not.” He smirked before continuing. “I’m the boss.”

You rolled your eyes and took another drink. “Just don’t make it fucking Ren. I can’t stand that asswipe.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” He promised.

The conversation wasn’t typical between a boss and employee, but you were more than that. You were partners at the firm, Toji was just the one in charge. You’d built the firm together from the ground up, making it the success it was today.

He had come to you, needing an architect for his own firm back when it was only an idea, offering two-hundred million yen out of his personal coffers as an incentive. But it wasn’t the money that had made you say yes. It was the almost maniacal determination in his eyes. He had something to prove, and he would burn the world to the ground to do it.

You learned later his wife had just died a few weeks prior, and it was part of his promise to her on her deathbed that he follow through with his plan of opening his firm. You’d been with him since the beginning, in the early days where you both spent countless sleepless nights completing projects other firms only dared to take on, through the intervention staged by his two closest friends Nanami Kento and Gojou Satoru, as Toji became consumed by his work as a way to suppress his grief, to the point where his son almost didn’t recognize him when he came home. You’d been by his side through the boom of success that befell the firm just a few short years after its founding, along with the money that soon flooded both your pockets, and his second “marriage” to a model he met at a film festival, who promptly disappeared after moving her daughter into his home. He had been surprisingly calm through the whole ordeal, submitting the paperwork to make Tsumiki his own once they were completely certain her mother was never coming back, with a hefty cash incentive and NDA to tie it with a nice bow.

He’d been through a fair amount with you as well, dealing with toxic family that had come out of the woodwork as the company started to increase your wealth, demanding money for so-called “investments” they had made into you by providing basic care until you finally left at fifteen. Through the sudden death of your fiancé, where Toji was the only one who could understand and help you navigate through the unending darkness that consumed your life for almost a year afterwards. He’d ignored some of your questionable choices as you tried to adjust to your new normal, but also was not afraid to step in when necessary if the choices turned destructive. You had thought it was just to protect the interest of the firm, but when he had come to your apartment after a sobbing phone call on the anniversary of your fiancé’s death and held you so you wouldn’t feel so alone, you knew it was because he cared about you.

“Are you ready to go back inside?” You asked after watching the sunset sink below the horizon, breaking you both out of your reflection.

“I’d rather drive an ice pick through my skull.” He admitted. 

You laughed, the sound echoing off the glass windows and empty air around you. “We could always dip.”

“Wouldn’t they be offended, us leaving early?” He turned to face you with one hand on the railing. You ignored the way his suit jacket strained against the hard planes of his chest.

“Mari’s in there, it’ll be fine.” You said, referring to your project manager. “She loves people. She’ll have them eating out of the palm of her hand.”

“If you say so.” He took the empty glass from you, setting it on the railing before taking your hand to thread it through his arm. “Shall we?”

“Lead the way.”

You made a hasty exit from the party, repeating your excuse of an early flight at least a dozen times so no one would hinder your escape. No one bothered to ask follow-up questions. If they had, they might have found out you were flying private back to Tokyo, and the plane could leave whenever you goddamn pleased, obliterating your excuse.

Luckily, the lie held until you were safely in the cab of an elevator, heading up to the floor that held your two hotel rooms. The company had offered the two massive adjacent suites to you both, taking up an entire floor of the newly constructed hotel. Toji probably could have brought his kids if he had wanted, but he didn’t want to pull them out of school for that long. You were happy to have the entire suite to yourself. It meant you didn’t have to listen to neighbors through all hours of the night, and you didn’t have to worry about keeping anyone up when working late at night. 

“The flight leaves at six tomorrow morning.” Toji told you as you stepped off onto your floor. “There’s going to be a car to pick us up an hour before.”

“Did you already send your bags with the service?” You stopped just outside your door, directly across the hall from Toji’s. 

He nodded. “I saw yours were ready, I had them sent as well.”

“Thank you.” You looked behind your shoulder to your door then back at him, his hands in his pockets, watching you like he was expecting you to say something else. He looked downright sinful in his all-black designer suit, his normally straight hair styled back with hair gel but still looking soft to the touch. The watch that cost more than most people’s houses glinted in the warm light of the hallway as he played with his cufflinks, also worth a small fortune. You would know. You bought them. 

He quirked his eyebrow at your examination, almost like a challenge. Damn him. 

“Do you want to come in for a nightcap?”

A slow smile spread across his face. “I thought you would never ask.” 

You smiled back and turned to the door, inserting your keycard to hear the small click of the lock disengaging, slipping inside with him closely following. “We haven’t broken in this one, yet.”

He was on you before you had the chance to slip out of your shoes. Maybe it was the alcohol that gave him a sense of urgency, the sweet bourbon still on his lips as they slid over yours with a practiced ease, or that you had an early flight in the morning and needed as much sleep as possible to prevent jet lag. If it were the latter, this was definitely not the activity to be participating in.

These liaisons only happened on trips, or late nights at the office or your apartment, where there would be no prying eyes. You both didn’t need questions. It was fulfilling a primal desire, one that burned within you even as both your hearts were locked by grief. There was an understanding. You cared for him, and he for you, but not in a romantic way. You were making sure the needs of a friend were met.

The “breaking in” was also a tradition as well, ever since your first major deal had been completed. When the building was finally complete for a major project, you and Toji would sneak off somewhere to do the deed, christening the building like a bottle of champagne before a ship’s maiden voyage. It had started as a joke, a way to release the pent-up stress that resulted from design and construction but eventually became a tradition. As the business grew over the years, you and Toji had christened well over a hundred completed projects with none the wiser. 

You pushed his suit jacket off his shoulders before moving your hands between your fused bodies to start undoing the buttons of his shirt, working quickly in the tight space as Toji didn’t allow you any room to pull away. You struggled to focus while his kisses moved down to your chin and then your neck, licking and sucking the skin with reckless abandon. You let out a breathy moan as he bit your pulse point with a low growl feeling your heartbeat thrum beneath his teeth. Toji pushed your hands away when his shirt was finally on the floor behind him. He grabbed your face between his hands bringing your attention back to him to kiss you. Ever the multitasker, his tongue explored your mouth while he began his task of getting you naked. 

“Don’t rip the dress.” You warned under his kiss while his large hands grappled for the zipper. “I borrowed it, it has to be in perfect condition.”

“I’ll buy Mei Mei a new one.” Gripping the top of the dress with a hand on each size of the zipper, he yanked hard, the fabric splitting like he had just ripped a sheet of paper as it fell off your body. His eyes went wide as the dress pooled at your feet, revealing the matching black lace set you had underneath. The cups barely contained your breasts and did little to cover your most delicate areas, nipples peeking through the sheer fabric.

“Fucking hell.” He breathed.

You grinned and kneeled in front of him, starting to undo the buckle of his pants. “Paris paid off, then?” 

A sigh fell past his lips as you finally pulled his pants and boxers down, wasting no time to wrap your hand around his thick cock, pumping languidly. His breath hitched as you licked his angry red tip slowly, pulling back to prevent him from pushing past your lips when his hips moved forward. His hand went to the crown of your head, tangling his fingers in your hair. “Shit. You’ve been saving that since Paris?”

“I’ve worn this plenty before. You’ve just never seen it.” Your smirk was devilish. His grip on your hair tightened as you took him to the base, neatly trimmed hair tickling your nose while you forced your throat to relax. You tried to gather as much spit as you could to make the glide easier as you bobbed your head. Toji was a large man with an equally large and impressive dick, almost too much for you to take in. Through years of practice, both on him and several inferior specimens, you had learned just how to hollow your cheeks, how to move, and how to swallow to have a man cumming in minutes flat. 

“Fuck, you okay?” He panted when he thrust involuntarily, hitting the back of your throat and making you gag slightly. Once you composed yourself, you hummed around his cock and nodded. Grabbing his other free hand, you placed it on the back of your head with his other one before taking him back down your throat. A silent invitation. 

He wasted no time responding, beginning to thrust into your mouth with no reserve. You grabbed his hips to steady yourself as you relaxed and remembered to breathe through your nose. Tears ran down your cheeks while he choked you with his massive cock, mixing with your mascara and staining your skin black. The salty tang of precum hit your tongue, mixing with the saliva that fell from your lips the faster he moved. You smiled around his cock when you cupped his balls, squeezing just enough for him to let out a loud groan. 

“Stop.” He growled, pulling you off him and tilting your chin up. He took in your tear-streaked face, your chin and neck covered with a mix of saliva and pre-cum. When he dragged his thumb over your bottom lip, you caught it between your teeth, sucking him in and lavving the digit with your tongue. He chuckled darkly, hooking his thumb in your mouth and using it as a guide for you to stand up in front of him. 

“Messy doll.” He crooned. You had to admit, you were shocked as he leaned forward and licked up your neck, tasting both of you on your skin. While you were distracted with his sinful lips, you heard another distinct ripping sound before you felt the cool air of the room against your bare ass. You broke away and looked down to see your panties in tatters on the ground. 

“Can you at least leave one piece of my clothing intact tonight?” You frowned at him, your voice slightly hoarse from his antics. “Those were expensive. I know we’re made of money now, but I’d prefer not to spend it all.”

He ignored you and reached around to plant a firm smack on your cheeks. “In the bedroom. On the bed.”

You knew exactly what he meant, but you decided to have a bit of fun as you walked through the massive suite. You could feel his eyes on you, almost predatory when you entered the bedroom and caught sight of the king-sized bed, made with fresh linens and piled high with pillows, accented in the light greys and blacks that matched the rest of the suite. You flopped down on the bed with a giggle, back down, and propped yourself up on your elbows to look at him. 

He frowned at your position as he walked forward. “I said on the bed.” He rumbled. 

“I am on the bed.” You played dumb and cocked your head to the side. “What did you mean?”

He shook his head and stopped at the edge, towering over you. “You’re such a brat sometimes, you know that?” 

“It’s a nice break from those girls that call you daddy, isn’t it?” You purred. 

The growl that ripped through his chest made your heart jump and another wave of arousal coat your lips as he surged forward, gripping your hips to flip you onto your stomach and pull them up so you were on your knees, your throbbing center level with his cock. He ground against you, slipping his length along your drenched labia to coat it, the glide easy as your spit mixed with your slick. He was more than ready to pound into you. 

When you tried to prop yourself up on your elbows, he put a hand on your neck and pushed you down so your face was pressed into the mattress. A shiver ran down your spine when you felt his hot breath on your back and trailing up as he bent over you to whisper in your ear. 

“You know, I was going to be nice, maybe take it slow at first so you wouldn’t be absolutely wrecked sitting for fourteen hours on our flight tomorrow.” He hummed. “But now, I think I’m going to like seeing you squirm.”

It wasn’t even a second later before he slammed into your pussy, the stretch almost painful as you wailed at the intrusion and he began a brutal pace that rivaled his speed while he was fucking your face just moments before. You were already sopping wet from sucking his dick earlier, turned on beyond belief as you thought about what lay in store for you after he was done with your mouth being his personal fleshlight. 

“Shit, you’re so tight.” He hissed, spanking your ass to feel you clench around his dick. “No one can stretch this cunt as good as I can, can they? You need a fat cock to satisfy you, those skinny dicks can’t even get you wet.” 

You moaned an affirmative, playing along with his narrative as he pistoned his hips into you. You could feel every vein on him as they dragged along your walls, his tip hitting that soft spot inside you with every thrust. There were plenty of other dicks that had gotten you wet, but it was true his was the most impressive, and the one that had more knowledge of just how to make you scream, monster dick or not. He had that advantage over every other man you slept with. 

The slap of his hips against yours echoed through the cavernous room as Toji grabbed your upper arms, pulling them behind your back and forcing your back in arch, his thrust becoming more shallow but no less punishing. You bit your lip to control the noises you were making, but whines still escaped. 

When the new position didn’t produce his desired response from you, he released your arms without any ceremony causing your upper body to fall limp back to the bed. You gasped as Toji pressed his hips flush to yours, curling his body on top of yours with one powerful arm wrapped around your waist to keep you from pulling away while his tip continually massaged your g-spot with every roll of his hips into you. 

“Tell me how it feels.” He murmured in your ear, his voice steady without any sign of effort. His stamina was something to marvel. 

“You know how it feels.” You moaned back, unable to control yourself. You were so close, just ready to reach that peak if he would only speed up. You reached back with one hand and gripped his hip hoping that would encourage him to resume his previous pace. 

He took your hand from his hip and put it back near your head, delivering a harsh smack to your ass. The sharp sting of pleasure was what you needed for your back to arch, squeezing around him while you fucked yourself back onto his cock to prolong your climax as much as you could. 

Toji pulled out as you finally slowed down, his heavy cock bouncing against his leg as he sat up against the headboard and patted his thigh, signaling for you to climb on. You wasted no time in doing so, raising yourself on shaky legs to straddle his lap. His hands moved to cup your ass as you settled over him, taking his length in hand and sinking down onto it with a sharp exhale through your nose. You could almost feel him in your throat in this position, the stretch still borderline uncomfortable even after he had already stretched you out, coupled with the sensitivity of just having orgasmed. 

His gentle grip turned hard just as you were about to start bouncing to stop your movements. You gave him a confused look but understood when his hands started to guide you in grinding on his lap. The added friction on your clit against his pelvis made you sigh in pleasure, just a tinge of overstimulation creeping through the tightness already building in your stomach again. In this position with the lack of harsh movements he was able to play with your breasts, which he always gave proper worship. 

His large hands made your breasts look small as he covered the left, slipping your nipple between his fingers and rolling it while he cupped the other, pushing it up and licking at the flesh. You sighed at the rough texture of the scar marring his lips against your sensitive skin and wrapped your arms around his head, tangling your fingers in his hair to hold him close. He loved to tease, licking and sucking all around your breasts until you were about to beg, arching your back further into his touch. You hated begging him, hated admitting how well he could affect you. But you had known each other for so long, you knew each other better than anyone else. 

You whined as his lips finally closed around the pert bud, laying the flat of his tongue over the sensitive skin. You felt his lips stretch into a smile against your skin at your vocalizations before he moved to your other breast, immediately latching onto the nipple to produce a breathy moan. You knew he was enjoying himself from the way his hips matched each roll of your own, driving deeper as he got lost in the feeling. 

“I got your milkies.” You whispered, part of your sinister trick to bring him back to earth. You were starved for actual friction, grinding not providing the drag on your insides you craved. 

He pulled back with a soft pop and frowned, though his pupils were still blown out. “You did not just say that.”

You shrugged. “I thought it was funny.”

“Way to kill the mood.” He mumbled, pushing your breasts together to bury his face between them, licking through your cleavage and up your chest.

“Then why are you still hard?” You squeezed down on him deliberately. His eyes grew dark as he looked up at you through thick lashes and you knew you were in for it. 

With one quick movement you were under him, back pressed into the pillows while he kneeled between your legs still holding your waist so he could stay buried inside you, your hips tilted so you were at an angle. You struggled to sit up trying to resume your previous position, but his strong hold on you didn’t allow you any room before he continued burying himself in your velvet walls. You could barely breathe from the force of his thrusts, twice as hard as before but just as fast. 

You could have killed him from how composed he looked as he watched you slowly lose control. He watched you with an almost curious expression, studying how your brow drew together and short gasps fell past your lips while he was barely breaking a sweat. You refused to give him the satisfaction of hearing your moans. If he wanted them, he’d have to earn them. 

“I know you like taking it from the back, but I think I like this better.” He mused, voice even like he wasn’t balls deep in your cunt. “I can see the look on your face when you lose control.”

“Fuck you, Toji.” You gasped, your words stuttering with each of his thrusts. 

“No, that’s your job.” He grinned devilishly and bent down over you, resting on his elbows. “Scream for me, little slut. Let the floors around us know how good I fuck.” 

You opened your mouth to retort but a loud scream came out instead as Toji sneaked his hand between you to roll your clit between two fingers. You barely felt his breath on your skin as you shattered beneath him, screaming just like he wanted as your orgasm crashed over you, ten times as intense as the one he had just given you. You gripped the pillow under your head and turned your face into it so he couldn’t see just how much you were enjoying this. 

In an instant, you felt the pillow ripped from beneath your head and his hand come into contact with your cheek. The sting of his slap was dulled by the pleasure still running over your body as he gripped your chin tightly in one of his large hands, forcing you to look in his eyes, your noses almost touching. Your eyebrows knit together and mouth open on a silent moan made him finally push as far in as he could on a final thrust, painting your inner walls white with his cum as he groaned loudly. The roll of his hips didn’t stop until he deposited every last drop within you, until you could feel his cum leaking out the sides of his dick. How could he cum so fucking much?

His hands turned gentle as he pulled out, smoothing your hair off your sweaty forehead and tracing his fingers over the hickeys he’d left on your neck. He bent down to ghost his lips on your hairline before hauling himself off the bed and walking toward the bathroom. You could faintly hear him rummaging around through your post-coital fog, coming back with a warm damp towel and starting the task of cleaning you up. 

While he did, he grabbed the phone from the room and dialed room service, ordering two meals, along with ice cream at your insistence, billing it to his room. Not that it mattered, you were staying here on your host’s dime. When he was done cleaning you, he laid on his side next to you, smiling down fondly as you still tried to catch your breath. 

“You did good.” He whispered, caressing your face. You managed a weak smile and laughed. 

“Don’t get soft on me now, Fushiguro.” You sighed. “I might just lose respect for you.”

He smiled down at you, basking in the afterglow of your liaison. “Wouldn’t dream of it, doll.”

Tags: @oikawaandkuroostan, @gummy-dummy

[fyexo]

191220 K-Pop Stars EXO Reflect on How Far They've Come — and How Far They'll Go

As Chen tells Teen Vogue, this year has been “a time for EXO to reflect” on their past, present, and future.

Chances are, even if you didn’t know it at the time, you’ve seen the members of the legendary K-Pop group EXO before. Their musical prowess speaks for itself, but even beyond that, their careers have taken over TV, fashion, celebrity culture, and more in the past year.

Maybe you've seen rapper and multi-instrumentalist Chanyeol, 27, shaking hands with Zendaya at Paris Fashion Week. Or perhaps it was breathtaking dancer and rapper Kai, 25, cracking 7th place on British GQ’s Best-Dressed Men of 2020 list. Or singer and composer Lay, 28, becoming Calvin Klein’s first-ever Chinese global ambassador. You might’ve watched rapper and youngest member Sehun, 25, on Netflix’s detective program Busted, or glimpsed leader and vocalist Suho, 28, waving from the red carpet as an honorary ambassador of the International Film Festival & Awards Macao. These are just a few of the places and memories that stamp the proverbial passport of EXO’s lives this year.

It’s been an equally powerful year musically for EXO too. With two members — Xiumin, 29, and D.O., 26, — currently completing their mandatory military enlistment and Lay promoting in China, the remaining six members of EXO have explored their own individual musical identities in 2019. Power vocalist Chen, 27, released two solo albums that chronicled love and heartbreak through mature, heart-warming ballads, while Baekhyun’s groovy solo album, City Lights, broke the highest monthly sales record for a solo artist in South Korean chart history with over 500,000 copies sold. Sehun and Chanyeol teamed up this summer for the debut of EXO-SC, EXO’s hip-hop sub-unit, while Baekhyun and Kai joined forces to “jump and pop” in SM supergroup SuperM.

As Chen tells Teen Vogue, this year has been “a time for EXO to reflect” on their past, present, and future as they reunite to promote their sixth album Obsession.

It’s December 4th, 2019, and the six members are dressed in thick, woollen, neutral-toned sweaters and trenchcoats to protect themselves from the arctic winds billowing throughout Seoul. There’s a warm camaraderie to their interactions as they laugh amongst themselves and take sips of their iced coffees. The atmosphere feels comfortable and familial, born from an understanding of each other’s mindsets and quirks that has been learned organically over the group’s career.

“It’s been seven years since we debuted and we’ll be hitting eight years next year; that’s a long period of time,” Chen says. His humble, calm demeanor is a balm for the rest of the group who cling to his introspective thoughts. “We reflected on our past journey and tried to make improvements in this new album. It’s been a grateful and fun time.”

This desire to continuously push boundaries both musically and creatively has been at the crux of EXO’s identity since their debut in 2012. Originally split into two groups, EXO-K and EXO-M, EXO performed their shared discography in both Korean and Mandarin in an effort to appeal to two major music markets simultaneously. The groups came together in 2013 to release their debut album, XOXO, and the album’s repackage released later in the year saw EXO’s popularity hit a fever pitch with the funky, dance-pop single “Growl.” Since then, each of EXO’s last five albums have sold over a million copies in South Korea alone, earning them the title “quintuple million sellers.”

The group is not only a staple in South Korea but across the globe too. From performing in front of the world at the closing ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics to becoming the first K-Pop group to have their faces projected on the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, EXO has stamped their name in the annals of pop history with their devotion toward their music, fans (called EXO-L), and each other. As they’ve matured over the years, that dedication hasn’t wavered.

“In our early years we just played together, whereas now we’ve grown up and matured,” Baekhyun replies. The singer’s personality is brighter than his shining white hair, and he thrives on the reactions to the jokes he makes throughout our chat. “We share a lot about where we’re headed in life, what we want to do for the upcoming album, and discuss how we can come together closer as a team to improve our teamwork.”

That tight-knit teamwork manifested itself in multiple ways throughout this year. From congratulating each other on Instagram like Lay did for Baekhyun’s solo debut to Xiumin and Sehun emceeing Chen��s solo album press conferences, the members have made it a point to support one another with every milestone they achieve, both individually and as a group. It also took center stage as the group embarked on their fifth world tour, Exo Planet #5 – The EXplOration, this July.

Part of the decision to go on tour, according to Suho, is because it makes the fans “happy,” which in turn makes EXO happy; this treasured time spent with fans also one of the reasons why the group worked tirelessly to release their new record in between their jam-packed personal schedules.

“Since the year EXO debuted, we’ve released an album every year. We’ve never skipped a single year,” Suho answers. With attention-grabbing ruby red hair, the leader holds himself with a quiet confidence and classic charm. “Even though it wasn’t a formal promise we made, it’s been a tradition to release an album each year, even if that means we have to make the promotion period short. Everyone’s been having hectic schedules, but it’s very meaningful for us to spend the end of the year with the fans.”

Heavily rooted in the group’s constant state of reinvention, the concept for Obsession sees EXO face off against their evil, superpowered doppelgängers X-EXO. Superpowers have been a common thread that has tied EXO’s music video multiverse together since their debut single “MAMA”, with each member utilizing their own signature power ranging from Chanyeol’s pyrokinesis to Kai’s teleportation abilities. When X-EXO arrives ready to destroy the planet in the group’s music video, the result is an explosive, superhero-style brawl between good and evil that leaves viewers enthralled.

In the lead up to shooting the music video, EXO emphasized the importance for both of their characters to have their own distinct, contrasting identity. While EXO dressed in weathered, straight laced black cargo pants and berets as if ready to march into war, X-EXO celebrated their eccentricities with jewel toned hair colors, white eyelashes, and uniquely cut clothing that bridged the gap between menacing and seductive.

“Our main focus was to draw a big contrast. All of us thoroughly discussed with our makeup and hair artists to bring that contrast, almost to the point of exaggeration,” Chanyeol says. He’s as jovial as his bubblegum pink hair and is openly expressive with his emotions, which light up his face whenever he speaks. “We tried to make X-EXO look very dark. EXO, on the other hand, was the good, righteous EXO like what fans have seen in the past. They came easy and naturally.”

“Like Chanyeol said, we discussed thoroughly with the makeup, hair, and costume team so that you could see the contrast right away,” Kai continues. Conscientious and thoughtful, Kai surveys the older members before answering so he doesn’t interrupt them. “Our attitudes also play a key role because they add to the strong visuals. Since it was a video, we all tried to make our performances convincing. X-EXO showed something that EXO had never done before — something mischievous.”

Amongst the members, X-EXO wins in a landslide over the team they liked the most.

“X-EXO had a stronger visual impact,” Baekhyun explains. “Personally, I wish that we made the plain EXO look cooler. That would have been right, because EXO was supposed to be the revolutionary army against X-EXO! I feel like they were visually weaker; I wish we had expressed more passion as EXO.”

With every album, EXO releases a bold title track that shatters the current K-pop paradigm, like the sinister “Obsession” or the reggae, EDM hybrid track “Ko Ko Bop." The remainder of the tracks on the albums typically allow EXO to explore new genres and make them their own, which range from hip-hop dance tracks like “Ya Ya Ya”, which samples ‘90s vocal trio SWV’s “You’re The One”, to heart-fluttering ballads like “Butterfly Effect."

Kai’s favorite track on the album is “Jekyll," which he loved from the first listen. “It starts off like a sweet R&B song, but the chorus suddenly changes into this shouting, which I think is in line with the duality expressed in the album,” he says. “I immediately thought that we could show a very different type of performance for this song — I can’t wait to perform this on stage and show the fans.”

“I like “Obsession” the most,” Sehun answers. Although under the weather, he makes a point to attend the interview to support his older members. “It was good enough to make the title track, so it’s my favorite.”

Chen picks the dreamy “Groove” because: “I love all the other tracks, but this song made me wonder if I could pull it off when I first heard it because it was such a different genre. It was challenging while recording it, but I love the result. It’s one of the songs that I feel most attached to.”

Chanyeol also fell in love with “Jekyll”, but is also partial to the similarly haunting reggae track “Trouble”. “The song came out to be great; I think we pulled it off pretty well,” he says happily.

“‘Day After Day’ for me,” says Baekhyun. While the other members have been discussing their favorites, he’s been silently exchanging silver rings with Suho. He nicks Chanyeol’s wire-rimmed glasses and puts them up his face backwards, reveling in the laughter he receives. “The song reminds me of a certain type of weather. I like songs that remind me of something — a song with a theme or story. ‘Day After Day’ does that for me.”

“I was going to say the same,” Suho says, shocked. A mischievous grin spreads on Baekhyun’s face. “Stop it,” he teases.

The room is whipped into uncontrollable laughter as Suho jokingly grasps the collar of Baekhyun’s sweater, as if he’s about to wrestle the other singer mid-interview. Suho’s faux fury only makes Baekhyun’s smile grow wider and he lets out a loud ahh, ahh! before Suho lets go.

“It reminds me of rain!” Suho complains, but a smile is working its way across his face too. “That’s because the lyrics have the word ‘rain’ in them,” Baekhyun dryly quips. “Choose something other than ‘Day After Day’,” Kai urges in between laughs. “Day after tomorrow? Two days after tomorrow?” The laughter doubles.

In the end, Suho chooses “Baby You Are." “The song uses band sounds and I really like the sound of the guitar,” he answers, before replying in English: “The intro is the best!” He flashes an assured smile and gives a thumbs up to further prove his point.

“The intro is your part!” Chen lovingly chides. “It’s because you sang that part!”

The most emotional track on the album is “Butterfly Effect," which is a direct callback to the group’s 2013 song “Don’t Go” (which literally translates to “Butterfly Girl”). The song, according to Chanyeol, was selected as a way to thank fans for their unwavering support over the last seven years.

“After viewing the different universes portrayed in EXO’s albums, you’ll be able to see a connection between Obsession and our previous records,” Chanyeol says. “In songs like ‘Don't Go’ and ‘Butterfly Effect’, there are butterflies that resist the Red Force [the canonical evil force mentioned throughout EXO’s music videos] and protect EXO. To us, these butterflies represent our fans, who are always beside us no matter what. They are why and how we exist.”

He continues: “Because of our fans — through their love and support — we are able to overcome any difficulties [we face as a group]. This is probably one of the biggest messages that we wanted to share on this album.”

Prior to their debut seven years ago, the members’ goals for the future were heavily built upon their dream to debut together. Chanyeol recalls that, before they were ever officially called EXO, each member was bonded together by a “common goal to create good music as one” as well as their frequent discussions while training to “work together for a very long time."

���At the time of our debut, we had achieved nothing and everything was up in the air. We talked about working together for a long time, hitting number one on the chart, winning awards, and more,” Kai replies, tone contemplative as he leans closer. “Personally speaking, when we eventually achieved all those goals, I realized, yes, winning awards and being successful is important, but more importantly being able to perform happily as an artist is what mattered the most. There were times when I obsessed over our sales record, stages, and something tangible, but now my goal and dream is to be a happy artist, being satisfied with what I do.”

At the end of Kai’s answer, EXO breaks out into a hearty round of applause. Kai bashfully shines on the encouragement with a soft grin. “He’s like a supervisor,” Baekhyun teases. Chanyeol concurs, “He’s like a CEO!”

Looking ahead, EXO’s goals for the upcoming year aren’t the grandiose, tangible achievements of their youth, but rather to keep the promise they made to each other all those years ago: to make music together for a really long time. “I’m wishing all the members’ health and happiness [in the future],” Chen says.

“Being able to perform for a long time as one, being able to meet the fans for a long time…” Kai reflects. “That’s the most important.”

source: emlyn travis @ Teen Vogue

[dailyexo]

[INTERVIEW] EXO - 191220 Teen Vogue: K-Pop Stars EXO Reflect on How Far They've Come — and How Far They'll Go

"As Chen tells Teen Vogue, this year has been “a time for EXO to reflect” on their past, present, and future.

Chances are, even if you didn’t know it at the time, you’ve seen the members of the legendary K-Pop group EXO before. Their musical prowess speaks for itself, but even beyond that, their careers have taken over TV, fashion, celebrity culture, and more in the past year.

Maybe you've seen rapper and multi-instrumentalist Chanyeol, 27, shaking hands with Zendaya at Paris Fashion Week. Or perhaps it was breathtaking dancer and rapper Kai, 25, cracking 7th place on British GQ’s Best-Dressed Men of 2020 list. Or singer and composer Lay, 28, becoming Calvin Klein’s first-ever Chinese global ambassador. You might’ve watched rapper and youngest member Sehun, 25, on Netflix’s detective program Busted, or glimpsed leader and vocalist Suho, 28, waving from the red carpet as an honorary ambassador of the International Film Festival & Awards Macao. These are just a few of the places and memories that stamp the proverbial passport of EXO’s lives this year.

It’s been an equally powerful year musically for EXO too. With two members — Xiumin, 29, and D.O., 26, — currently completing their mandatory military enlistment and Lay promoting in China, the remaining six members of EXO have explored their own individual musical identities in 2019. Power vocalist Chen, 27, released two solo albums that chronicled love and heartbreak through mature, heart-warming ballads, while Baekhyun’s groovy solo album, City Lights, broke the highest monthly sales record for a solo artist in South Korean chart history with over 500,000 copies sold. Sehun and Chanyeol teamed up this summer for the debut of EXO-SC, EXO’s hip-hop sub-unit, while Baekhyun and Kai joined forces to “jump and pop” in SM supergroup SuperM.

As Chen tells Teen Vogue, this year has been “a time for EXO to reflect” on their past, present, and future as they reunite to promote their sixth album Obsession.

It’s December 4th, 2019, and the six members are dressed in thick, woollen, neutral-toned sweaters and trenchcoats to protect themselves from the arctic winds billowing throughout Seoul. There’s a warm camaraderie to their interactions as they laugh amongst themselves and take sips of their iced coffees. The atmosphere feels comfortable and familial, born from an understanding of each other’s mindsets and quirks that has been learned organically over the group’s career.

“It’s been seven years since we debuted and we’ll be hitting eight years next year; that’s a long period of time,” Chen says. His humble, calm demeanor is a balm for the rest of the group who cling to his introspective thoughts. “We reflected on our past journey and tried to make improvements in this new album. It’s been a grateful and fun time.”

This desire to continuously push boundaries both musically and creatively has been at the crux of EXO’s identity since their debut in 2012. Originally split into two groups, EXO-K and EXO-M, EXO performed their shared discography in both Korean and Mandarin in an effort to appeal to two major music markets simultaneously. The groups came together in 2013 to release their debut album, XOXO, and the album’s repackage released later in the year saw EXO’s popularity hit a fever pitch with the funky, dance-pop single “Growl.” Since then, each of EXO’s last five albums have sold over a million copies in South Korea alone, earning them the title “quintuple million sellers.”

The group is not only a staple in South Korea but across the globe too. From performing in front of the world at the closing ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics to becoming the first K-Pop group to have their faces projected on the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, EXO has stamped their name in the annals of pop history with their devotion toward their music, fans (called EXO-L), and each other. As they’ve matured over the years, that dedication hasn’t wavered.

“In our early years we just played together, whereas now we’ve grown up and matured,” Baekhyun replies. The singer’s personality is brighter than his shining white hair, and he thrives on the reactions to the jokes he makes throughout our chat. “We share a lot about where we’re headed in life, what we want to do for the upcoming album, and discuss how we can come together closer as a team to improve our teamwork.”

That tight-knit teamwork manifested itself in multiple ways throughout this year. From congratulating each other on Instagram like Lay did for Baekhyun’s solo debut to Xiumin and Sehun emceeing Chen’s solo album press conferences, the members have made it a point to support one another with every milestone they achieve, both individually and as a group. It also took center stage as the group embarked on their fifth world tour, Exo Planet #5 – The EXplOration, this July.

Part of the decision to go on tour, according to Suho, is because it makes the fans “happy,” which in turn makes EXO happy; this treasured time spent with fans also one of the reasons why the group worked tirelessly to release their new record in between their jam-packed personal schedules.

“Since the year EXO debuted, we’ve released an album every year. We’ve never skipped a single year,” Suho answers. With attention-grabbing ruby red hair, the leader holds himself with a quiet confidence and classic charm. “Even though it wasn’t a formal promise we made, it’s been a tradition to release an album each year, even if that means we have to make the promotion period short. Everyone’s been having hectic schedules, but it’s very meaningful for us to spend the end of the year with the fans.”

Heavily rooted in the group’s constant state of reinvention, the concept for Obsession sees EXO face off against their evil, superpowered doppelgängers X-EXO. Superpowers have been a common thread that has tied EXO’s music video multiverse together since their debut single “MAMA”, with each member utilizing their own signature power ranging from Chanyeol’s pyrokinesis to Kai’s teleportation abilities. When X-EXO arrives ready to destroy the planet in the group’s music video, the result is an explosive, superhero-style brawl between good and evil that leaves viewers enthralled.

In the lead up to shooting the music video, EXO emphasized the importance for both of their characters to have their own distinct, contrasting identity. While EXO dressed in weathered, straight laced black cargo pants and berets as if ready to march into war, X-EXO celebrated their eccentricities with jewel toned hair colors, white eyelashes, and uniquely cut clothing that bridged the gap between menacing and seductive.

“Our main focus was to draw a big contrast. All of us thoroughly discussed with our makeup and hair artists to bring that contrast, almost to the point of exaggeration,” Chanyeol says. He’s as jovial as his bubblegum pink hair and is openly expressive with his emotions, which light up his face whenever he speaks. “We tried to make X-EXO look very dark. EXO, on the other hand, was the good, righteous EXO like what fans have seen in the past. They came easy and naturally.”

“Like Chanyeol said, we discussed thoroughly with the makeup, hair, and costume team so that you could see the contrast right away,” Kai continues. Conscientious and thoughtful, Kai surveys the older members before answering so he doesn’t interrupt them. “Our attitudes also play a key role because they add to the strong visuals. Since it was a video, we all tried to make our performances convincing. X-EXO showed something that EXO had never done before — something mischievous.”

Amongst the members, X-EXO wins in a landslide over the team they liked the most.

“X-EXO had a stronger visual impact,” Baekhyun explains. “Personally, I wish that we made the plain EXO look cooler. That would have been right, because EXO was supposed to be the revolutionary army against X-EXO! I feel like they were visually weaker; I wish we had expressed more passion as EXO.”

With every album, EXO releases a bold title track that shatters the current K-pop paradigm, like the sinister “Obsession” or the reggae, EDM hybrid track “Ko Ko Bop." The remainder of the tracks on the albums typically allow EXO to explore new genres and make them their own, which range from hip-hop dance tracks like “Ya Ya Ya”, which samples ‘90s vocal trio SWV’s “You’re The One”, to heart-fluttering ballads like “Butterfly Effect."

Kai’s favorite track on the album is “Jekyll," which he loved from the first listen. “It starts off like a sweet R&B song, but the chorus suddenly changes into this shouting, which I think is in line with the duality expressed in the album,” he says. “I immediately thought that we could show a very different type of performance for this song — I can’t wait to perform this on stage and show the fans.”

“I like “Obsession” the most,” Sehun answers. Although under the weather, he makes a point to attend the interview to support his older members. “It was good enough to make the title track, so it’s my favorite.”

Chen picks the dreamy “Groove” because: “I love all the other tracks, but this song made me wonder if I could pull it off when I first heard it because it was such a different genre. It was challenging while recording it, but I love the result. It’s one of the songs that I feel most attached to.”

Chanyeol also fell in love with “Jekyll”, but is also partial to the similarly haunting reggae track “Trouble”. “The song came out to be great; I think we pulled it off pretty well,” he says happily.

“‘Day After Day’ for me,” says Baekhyun. While the other members have been discussing their favorites, he’s been silently exchanging silver rings with Suho. He nicks Chanyeol’s wire-rimmed glasses and puts them up his face backwards, reveling in the laughter he receives. “The song reminds me of a certain type of weather. I like songs that remind me of something — a song with a theme or story. ‘Day After Day’ does that for me.”

“I was going to say the same,” Suho says, shocked. A mischievous grin spreads on Baekhyun’s face. “Stop it,” he teases.

The room is whipped into uncontrollable laughter as Suho jokingly grasps the collar of Baekhyun’s sweater, as if he’s about to wrestle the other singer mid-interview. Suho’s faux fury only makes Baekhyun’s smile grow wider and he lets out a loud ahh, ahh! before Suho lets go.

“It reminds me of rain!” Suho complains, but a smile is working its way across his face too. “That’s because the lyrics have the word ‘rain’ in them,” Baekhyun dryly quips. “Choose something other than ‘Day After Day’,” Kai urges in between laughs. “Day after tomorrow? Two days after tomorrow?” The laughter doubles.

In the end, Suho chooses “Baby You Are." “The song uses band sounds and I really like the sound of the guitar,” he answers, before replying in English: “The intro is the best!” He flashes an assured smile and gives a thumbs up to further prove his point.

“The intro is your part!” Chen lovingly chides. “It’s because you sang that part!”

The most emotional track on the album is “Butterfly Effect," which is a direct callback to the group’s 2013 song “Don’t Go” (which literally translates to “Butterfly Girl”). The song, according to Chanyeol, was selected as a way to thank fans for their unwavering support over the last seven years.

“After viewing the different universes portrayed in EXO’s albums, you’ll be able to see a connection between Obsession and our previous records,” Chanyeol says. “In songs like ‘Don't Go’ and ‘Butterfly Effect’, there are butterflies that resist the Red Force [the canonical evil force mentioned throughout EXO’s music videos] and protect EXO. To us, these butterflies represent our fans, who are always beside us no matter what. They are why and how we exist.”

He continues: “Because of our fans — through their love and support — we are able to overcome any difficulties [we face as a group]. This is probably one of the biggest messages that we wanted to share on this album.”

Prior to their debut seven years ago, the members’ goals for the future were heavily built upon their dream to debut together. Chanyeol recalls that, before they were ever officially called EXO, each member was bonded together by a “common goal to create good music as one” as well as their frequent discussions while training to “work together for a very long time."

“At the time of our debut, we had achieved nothing and everything was up in the air. We talked about working together for a long time, hitting number one on the chart, winning awards, and more,” Kai replies, tone contemplative as he leans closer. “Personally speaking, when we eventually achieved all those goals, I realized, yes, winning awards and being successful is important, but more importantly being able to perform happily as an artist is what mattered the most. There were times when I obsessed over our sales record, stages, and something tangible, but now my goal and dream is to be a happy artist, being satisfied with what I do.”

At the end of Kai’s answer, EXO breaks out into a hearty round of applause. Kai bashfully shines on the encouragement with a soft grin. “He’s like a supervisor,” Baekhyun teases. Chanyeol concurs, “He’s like a CEO!”

Looking ahead, EXO’s goals for the upcoming year aren’t the grandiose, tangible achievements of their youth, but rather to keep the promise they made to each other all those years ago: to make music together for a really long time. “I’m wishing all the members’ health and happiness [in the future],” Chen says.

“Being able to perform for a long time as one, being able to meet the fans for a long time…” Kai reflects. “That’s the most important.”"

Photo links: 1, 2, 3

Credit: Teen Vogue.