#Seven Dixie

[stephenjplant]

My contribution to the Color Wheel Challenge.

[mj0702]

The other Bronze – Part 12

I tell you guys - this was a very complicated birth 😅😅 I hope you enjoy it and next part (if wanted) will be more happy and chaotic again ❤️❤️

I want to thank all me patient anons... and of course @valewosomtb and @samkerrworshipper for having me back in every situation... and new to that list is @georgiaswifey who literally saved me ass from dying this week due to boredom ❤️❤️

After breakfast all of you boarded the bus to St. Georges Park for the first training of Camp. You of course tried to sit next to G just for Lucy to pull you up by your shirt and push you further down the way disposing you next to Mary as she slipped into the row next to you

“You can't be serious?” you growled towards your sister and her actions

“Dixie Chicks serious” your sister smirked back as she pushed you slightly into Mary

“Yeah... you do actually behave like Aubrey” you grumbled as you let Mary pull you into her side without even watching the interaction as she looked out of the window

“You ready for training Bubs?” Lucy asked now and you knew she was just being concerned after what happened a few days ago in Barcelona

“Yeah... if it gets too much I just go into the bosses office... I promise I won't bolt” you reassured her

“Okay... if you need anything Kei and I are always there okay” your sister said insistently

“Yeah I know...” you smiled softly

“Hey y/n” Rachels head shot up from the seat in front of you

“Yeah...” you already saw the glint in her eye which meant fun

“Truth or Truth?” the blonde asked grinning

“Ehrm... truth?” you played along smirking

“Good choice... okay... Have you ever faked sick to get out of a party?” Rachel grinned knowing the answer already

“Not a party but school and training, yeah” you shrugged your shoulders

“Training????” now Lucy looked up from her phone

“Sure... it's like suuuuuper easy.. down a bottle of water and sprint a few meters... boom... getting sick everywhere” you answered nonchalantly “Go on Rache... I'll give you one more”

“Excuse me?? Hold on.. when...” your sister interrupted

“Just before we had that “friendly” against the Arsekiddos...” you shrugged as Beth Mead turned around glaring at you

“It's Arsenal” she corrected you and you saw that she wasn't as serious

“There's a reason why there's an ARSE in Arsenal... and if you cut out the “rse” you get Anal... so... you can't argue with that” you smirked and shrugged your shoulders

You absolutely loved your Arsenal women but it's just as much fun to rile them up

“You just wait Pumpkin... you just wait...” Meado smirked back and you knew the worst thing what would happen would be a noogie “I'll just tell Viv to not bring any stroopwaffle back from camp this time”

“You wouldn't” you exclaimed shocked

“Oh I will...” Beth smirked

“You can't... Viv's me friend” you whined

“I licked it it's mine” Meado smirked evilly

“Oh god... disgusting” you shuddered as she winked at you

“Have you ever been nude in public?” Rache now spoke up again and a few heads turned towards you – including Keira, Georgia and Lucy

“I mean... Less, Toons and I went moonlight skinny dipping last year... does that count as nude in public?” you looked expectantly at Rachel who just bursted out laughing at Lucys horrified face

“Totally counts... got room for another?” now Millie got involved as well

“What's the weirdest thing you've done on a plane?” the larger blonde asked

“I... got on the wrong plane” you mumbled embarrassed as the bus around you interrupted in laughter

“You what? How can you get on a wrong plane??” Millie asked shocked

“It's easy when you're seven and just walk behind a man and the attendant mistakes you for his daughter and just pushes you through....” you fidget with fingers

“Where did you end up??” Mary asked chuckling

“Lucy??” you looked at your sister for help

“Iceland... she ended up in Iceland” your sister growled remembering the exact moment she realized at the airport that you were gone – and how she freaked out when the airport security from Reykjavík Airport contacted her telling her what happened. And how she needed to fly to Iceland to pick you up since you were a minor who wasn't allowed to fly on your own

“Beautiful country” you said wishfully as your sister groaned loudly

“I had to pick you up” Lucy huffed out

“But you can't deny that Iceland is a beautiful country” you shrugged your shoulders

“May I have a throw in as well?” now Leah asks not even waiting for an answer “y/n... truth or truth?”

“You can royally fuck off Williamson” you sneered and suddenly the whole bus was quiet and everyone was looking at you with wide eyes

“y/n!!!” Lucy said sternly “Apologize... Now”

“She first” you said reluctantly

“No... you will stop using your ass as a hat and get a grip” your sister gritted out “She's the Capitan and you will NOT talk to her like this... and if you can't accept her as the Capitan then it's still Leah and you will not talk to Leah like this – the person Leah not the player Leah”

“I wasn't talking to the person Leah” you huffed out “I was talking to the Capitan Leah”

“Okay wow... the different Leahs giving me headaches” you heard Tooney mumble which made you chuckle and had the effect that the situation got a little bit lighter

“Talk to me pumpkin” the blonde said softly as she ushered your sister away to take her place sitting down.

“I'm not talking to the Capitan... because she fucked up” you grunted pushing yourself further into Mary like a three year old

“Then talk to your friend” Leah tried again

“We're in a professional environment...” you grumbled

“Okay...” Leah accepted that she wouldn't get anything out of you just now

She leaned back in now her seat and sighed deeply. After a minute she pushed herself out of the seat walking to the front of the bus. She sat down in the first row next to Sarina

“I need to talk to her in private before training” Leah came straight to the point not even looking at Sarina but keeping her eyes trained forward

“I think so too...” the dutch said lowly “... but first I want to know why you roomed them together”

“I wanted that they maybe talk and whatever caused the riff between them could maybe resolved... I want her on the team too... she's good and she needs something to occupie her... I don't want to ever see her like two years ago.. never again” the blonde said lowly so just Sarina heard what she said

“What happened two years ago?” Sarina asked confused and concerned at the same time

“You don't know?” Leah asked surprised

“No” the dutch shook her head

“She tried to overdose... she called Leila because she got scared and Leila rushed over and basically forced the pills back out... then Leila called Hempo and Hempo called Beth... you know how the chain works... we got her to London on the lie of her missing Millie because even her parents didn't catch on...” the blonde said seriously

“I had no idea” Sarina said shocked

“Neither do Lucy and Keira” Leah said insistently

“No one had the guts to call them?” the dutch smirked

“We would all be dead if they knew... Keira just moved to Spain.. what would you think would have happened if we call her that y/n just tried to commit suicide?” the blonde snorted humourless “But seriously Sarina... I need to talk to her”

“I'll can excuse you for 15 minutes... but Leah... you may be the Capitan but I can tell you know... what happened between them won't be resolvable...” Sarina warned Leah

“You know?” Leah asked surprised

“I was there... I saw what happened... and I'll be honest with you Leah... it was bad” the dutch said as the bus came to a halt in front of St. Georges park “But the only one who should talk about this is y/n herself....”

“OKAY EVERYONE... YOU KNOW THE DRILL!! YOU HAVE 20 MINUTES TO GET ON THE PITCH – LOOK AFTER THE NEWBIES!” Leah yelled as the bus came to a stop and she pushed herself out of her seat facing the team

The players shuffled of the bus one by one the sensible veterans (not Millie and Rachel) showed the new players around and took them under their wing knowing how nerve wrecking it can be. Just as you exit the bus Leah was by your side

“Not you... you and I will go to the office” the blonde said and before you could complain (or bolt) she already had your arm in a death grip pulling you along

“That's literally textbook kidnapping” you said outraged

“If I wanted to kidnap you I would whack you over the head so I would have some peace while kidnapping you” the blonde grumbled as she pushed you into an empty office

You stood in the middle of the room while Leah went over to the big table leaning against it arms crossed over her chest

“Look... I just tried to do what I thought was right – I want you on the team... I need you on the team – I need you FOR the team” Leah started talking but stayed away from you.

She knew you well enough to read your body language which told her you wouldn't accept physical touch from her right now. So she stayed leaned against the table but let her arms fall to her side to signal you that she doesn't mean any harm

“You don't realize it but you are the glue in this team... and I'm sorry that I didn't talk to you about the rooming situation but I wanted to just give you a little push... both of you... I know you were friends and suddenly you two can't even talk to each other... I just wanted to get you to talk” Leah said apologetic

“There's a reason why we don't get along anymore” you said reserved

“I know that NOW...” the blonde rolled her eyes “I mean I don't know WHY but I know there's a reason...”

“So you talked to Sarina” you mused defenesly

“I did... If you wonder she just said it was bad nothing else” Leah said quickly

“So why are you so desperate for us to get along?” you asked weary

“As I said... I want you on and for the team... you know Sarina would give her last... waffle thing for you to join the Lionesses” the blonde tried to make you understand her point

“I can't play anymore...” you plopped down in one of the chairs

“But you can help us win... you have an eye for situations and plays like no one else... but I also know YOU... you might be grown up as a footballer – but as a person you are still a 16 year old girl... and I REALLY want you on this team but I fear that you wouldn't be unbiased...” Leah said softly “I know you can be.. I know you will be... but I needed to do something”

“Very wrong approach” you scoffed

“I know.... and I'm sorry” the blonde sighed

“Okay...” you shrugged your shoulders

“Okay?” Leah asked confuse

“Look... I am the reason LJ is still on this team... I won't tell you what happened because I know you love me and you will try to make it up to me somehow... but I told Sarina to keep her on the team... I told Keira not to do anything... so I may not be her fan personally... but as a player I can act civil and give my unbiased opinion” you told the Capitan seriously looking her straight in the eye

“Keira knows?” the blonde asked surprised

“Not by choice... she overheard something she shouldn't have... but that's beside the point... you fucked up... you apologized... we're good” you grinned “... AFTER you get Viv to bring me back stroopwaffle”

“You really had to get the comment about Arsenal out there didn't you?? How long did you work on that one?” Leah smiled back

“Not long... Leila and Greensie helped... we had fun” you shrugged grinning

“So... we're good Pumpkin?” Leah asked again

“Yeah... we're good Lee” you smiled as you pushed yourself out of your chair walking over to her and let yourself fall into her arms

“I love you Pumpkin” the blonde mumbled into your hair

“Love you too Lee” you mumbled against her neck

The two of you stayed like this for a minute until it knocked on the door and Sarina stuck her head inside

“Need you on the pitch Leah...” was the only thing the dutch said smiling softly seeing you in her captains arms

“Okay... let's go Pumpkin” Leah pushed you two off the table but kept her arm around your shoulders “Let's get out there and be great”

You entered the pitch together with Leah under the watchful gaze of Lucy and Keira but as soon as they saw that you had a small smile on your face and Leah had her arm around you they went back to their warm up

“They made up” Lucy spoke lowly as she stretched next to Keira

“Good... I already have you, LJ and G to keep an eye out for... not to mention Bitsy... if I needed to added Leah to that list too I would have shot myself” Keira mumbled back

“What do you mean me??” your sister exclaimed

“You were a dick to G yesterday and this morning... keep it up Lucia and you and I will have a nice talk once back in Barcelona” the blonde murmured back before standing up being done stretching “I know you actually don't mean any harm to them but I think you don't know how much both of them need your approval”

“It's not like G asked me to give my blessing” Lucy grumbled

“But she will one day” Keira said sternly before walking away

“Hey Liefje...” Sarina smiled as you joined her on the side-line watching the doing some basic drills to get the newbies used to the style and pace of style

“Ehrm.. why are there just 24 players on the pitch?” you puckered your lips and bashed your eyelashes

“Huh?” Sarina started to count the players – with you already knowing who was missing – and then whistled.

The girls came over confused why their coach called them over

“Where is James?” the dutch asked sternly looking at the vets while you had to bite your tongue really fucking hard to keep a straight face

“She was next to me in the locker room” Lucy said confused as she turned around looking for LJ

“Leah?” Sarina looked at her Capitan expectantly

“No clue” the blonde replied “I thought everyone was already out since I had something to take care off...”

Finally LJ emerged from the tunnel looking stressed – and she was barefoot.

“James... you're late... five laps after training” Sarina said strict

“Coach please... It's not my fault” LJ tried to reason with the dutch “It's y/n fault” she send you an evil look

“Moi??” you pointed at yourself innocently “I didn't do anything”

“I'm pretty sure I didn't pack two left cleats this morning... nor did I pack socks with holes in them” LJ sneered towards you

“I mean... I know Less has two left feet James...” you got quickly interrupted by Lessis “Hey... wait.. naah.. sounds about right” before you looked LJ dead in the eye “... but I never thought you have two... your passing is 90 something...”

You knew you were pushing your luck here but after what happened yesterday in your room you didn't give a flying fuck anymore

“You changed my cleats...” LJ growled

“I didn't do anything... if you accuse me of doing something...you better prove it” you growled back using her own words against her

“Okay... enough” Lucy pushed herself between you two to defuse the situation “Bubs... did you change LJs cleats?”

“How and when should I have done this?? You didn't let me out of your sight... I wasn't even allowed to say good morning to me girlfriend” you exclaimed annoyed

“True... you were with me the whole time” your sister mumbled but unsurprisingly Keira threw you a smirk knowing you somehow pulled this prank off

“I KNOW IT WAS YOU!!” LJ now exploded behind Lucy not believing you one bit

“Prove it” you said calm and looked her straight in the eye

“Okay... you do it again... LJ I have a second pair in my locker come on... you can have them” Lucy said as she pulled LJ away so the two of you wouldn't start fighting

“That backfired Bitsy” Keira grinned as she stood next to you

“Keira... sweet lovely Kei...” you grinned evilly “... since when does my sister pack a second pair of cleats?”

“Huh?” Keira looked confused before recovering “Never...”

“Exactly... so take a guess who threw the second pair in her bag?” you smirked seeing your plan enfold perfectly

“Why Bitsy... why would you help LJ?” the blonde mumbled

“Is it help if she has to do a three hour training session in shoes that are not hers?” you mused

“What do you mean?” Keira look at you lost

“The cleats are fitted to Luce feet... so either they are too big or too small... so tomorrow LJ either can't walk or she doesn't feel comfortable in her own cleats anymore and that will affect her play one way or the other” you smirked evil before turning around leaving an stunned Keira behind joining Sarina a little bit down the line.

“Evil Genius” Keira smirked to herself before walking over to Leah and Georgia

“It was her wasn't it?” Georgia asked immediately when Keira joined them

“Of course it was...” the blonde chuckled

“She told me you knew... tell us” Leah said hoping to get something out of her best friend

“No... not my business.... I promised her I wouldn't take any actions and that includes not saying anything because if people like Millie or Mary – or god forbid Lucy - get word of what happened than a pair of mixed up cleats would be LJs smallest problem – Millie would go all brickwall on her and Lucy would go out for the kill” Keira said seriously and even G caught on not to push the matter

“Wow... it must have been bad” now Tooney interrupted

“It was... and that's the last time we'll talk about it” the blonde said sternly fixing Tooney with a glare “Did I make myself clear?”

“Totally” Ella held her hands up in surrender

“Oi... less chatty chatty more runny runny” you yelled over to the four players grinning with Sarinas hands on your shoulders as she stood behind you like a proud mother

“What did I do now??” Lessi asked confused

“You did nothing?” you asked back confused

“You just say “Less chatty”...” Lessi said bewildered

“Not Less.... Less” you tried to make your point clear “as in... not so much... not as in Less Russo”

“Eh?” now you lost Lessi completely

“No talking – yes running” you huffed out

“AH... yeah that makes sense” the blonde finally catched on and smiled brightly

“Good... now run” you shooed her away

“What would you do with them now?” Sarina asked you as you watched the team getting back to their passing drills.

She wanted to include you more since she planned to take you with the team to the world cup

“Are you asking as a head coach – because that would be bad if you had no clue how to prepare a team or as Mama Rina who just tries to get me to sign for the team again?” you smirked keeping your eyes fixed on the pitch

“Neither... just interested” the dutch smiled as she stepped next to you

“Group B doesn't click... you should change players” you said focused

“And group B is?” Sarina asked not knowing which group you dubbed as “B”

“Walsh, Greenwood, Stanway, James, Carter” you mumbled trying to find the problem “Their play is off... switch Walsh for Clinton”

“Keira!!” Sarina yelled towards the midfielder “Switch with Grace”

“Better but still off...” you mumbled again after a few minutes after Keira and Grace swapped their places “G!!!” you yelled and beckoned your girlfriend over which caused Lucys head to snap towards you

“Yeah?” Georgia panted a little bit after she jogged over to you

“Cut the crap” you growled and your girlfriend looked at you with big shocked eyes

“I...” G started to stammer not knowing what to say

“No... cut the crap” you said sternly and even Sarinas eyes widen “I know what you're doing... stop it”

“No idea what you're talking about” your girlfriend mumbles out looking at you sheepishly

“You don't work against her...” you said furious

“I didn't” G defended herself

“You did... your passes to her are sloppy and you know it... IF you play a pass to her that is... I know what you are doing but this matter doesn't concern you” you fixed your girlfriend with a glare

“You are my girlfriend... of course it concerns me... Kei said it was bad and I won't...” Georgia started before you interrupt her

“You won't anything... And right now I'm not your girlfriend... I'm just someone because if I'd be your girlfriend right now this would be highly unprofessional and we don't do unprofessional... and the whole situation... NOT. YOUR. BUSINESS” you now sneered “You will be the player I know you are... the player who plays for her team and country... and not for her team minus LJ”

Now Sarina caught on and was actually impressed how you grew as a person that you don't back down from even telling your own girlfriend off.

“Now cut the crap and get your shit together or I'll convince the head coach that it would be beneficial if you'd run some laps with LJ after training”

Georgia looked at you like she seen a ghost but nodded slowly

“Good...” you huffed “... now go and be the player I know”

Your girlfriend scrambled off quickly and you already could see the change in the whole play after you ripped her head off and screwed it back on in place the right way around

“That was...” Sarina started and you raised an eyebrow at her “... big... I didn't think you would rip your girlfriend a new one”

“If she deserves it I would rip Lucy a new one... I don't need anyone to fight me battles” you huffed still a bit angry

“They don't fight the battles FOR you... they fight battles WITH you” the dutch said softly “And Leah told me what happened two years ago... want to say something about that?”

“Nope...” you popped the “p”

“You know we'll talk about it...” Sarina said and this time it was her who had the sternness in her voice

“Ugh... Williamson really can't keep her gob shut” you groaned

“She thought I knew.. and now I'm thankful for her slip up” the dutch said “... What do you think about a 3v3?”

“5v5 … So G is basically forced to pull her finger out of her ass and start acting like a teammate again” you said back easily accepting the topic change

“If I would be a petty asshole... wait.. I AM a petty asshole...” you grinned at your adoptive mom “swap Greenwood with Bronze”

“Why would I do this?” Sarina raised her eyebrow again

“So my sister is forced to play alongside my girlfriend and not against her” you grinned “This gonna be fun”

Sarina actually swapped teams around a little so it wouldn't be to obvious and in the end team blue contained Bronze, Clinton, Stanway, Carter and James. They were up against team yellow who was Bright, Daly, Walsh, Greenwood and Mead.

“Georgia… drop back and come more in the backside” Sarina yelled with her Dutch accent

Your head snapped up (as did several heads from the team) finding the eyes of your girlfriend immediately as you both start to blush furiously while both of you stated a deer caught in the head light look.

“That’s… that’s not how you say it Mama Rina” you cleared your throat multiple times as you tried to avoid looking at your Sister.

“What did I say wrong?” the Dutch woman asked confused as several of your girlfriends teammates started to snicker and Millie even going so far as in clapping Georgia on the back

“Didn’t know you had it in ya, Stanway” the east midlander said grinning like a Cheshire cat

“oh no that wasn’t her…. That was me… I had it in me” you said offhandly realizing a split second later WHAT you just said as you already saw Lucys twitching eye as she turned towards your girlfriend looking her dead in the eye

“Run” was the only thing your sister said dangerously low.

Georgia already turned around sprinting away with your sister hot on her heels

Millie, Rachel Alex and Mary busted out laughing as Georgia ran past them her face red as a fire extinguisher.

“SORRY BABE!!!” you yelled after her as she sprinted past you your sister not far behind.

“See Bitsy… THIS is why I always tell you to think before you speak” Keira said standing next to you as she grabbed a water bottle.

“I don’t understand what the issue is” Sarina looking confused from one player to the next

“Backside is… your behind… you know Mama Rina” you tried to explain as much as possible with saying too much just for having the Dutch woman staring at you lost

“You basically told Stanway to come in someone ass” Rachel blurted out

“Oh… that’s… unfortunate” Sarina said after the words have sunken in.

“And little Bronze here basically confirmed that that’s what G already did” Millie laughed as she pulled you into side

“I didn’t mean too… it just… slipped out” you whined embarrassed

“I bet it did” Millie bursting out laughing as you punched her in the ribs which clearly didn’t phase her

Just as you wanted to respond what an incredible ass Millie is being your girlfriend sprinted past you again

“Stop her…” you heard her faintly begging voice as her breaths came out labored

“Keira please…” you turned to your basically other sister at this point

“Oh no… I’m not getting involved… that’s the Captains job.. or the head coaches job” Keira grinned widely

“Leaaaaaah…. Pleeeeeeeease” you begged at the England Captain now desperation clear in your voice

“Nope… you started it – your problem” the blonde smirked finding the whole situation highly entertaining

“Ugh” you moaned “you know… at least I get them to run… you weren’t as successful earlier”

You knew it was a cheap dig at Leah reminding her how she tried to get Lucy and Georgia to run only to find Lucy staring daggers at the younger one who preferred to hide behind Millie

“I swear I will pull a napoleon move on you and send you to exile” the blonde captain threatened you but her eyes were shining with mischief

“You can’t do that… Mama Rina wants me here to figure out what’s wrong with you lot” you said quickly turning around to the womens head coach “She can’t do that right?!”

“I mean… she IS the captain…” Sarina smirked

“HA!!” Leah yelled out victorious

“I promise I’ll be quiet” you begged again “but please don’t let her kill my girlfriend”

You looked around to find your girlfriend in the stands climbing quickly over the seats as Lucy followed not as graciously but still close

“At this point one or both of them will get hurt…” you heard Keira muse beside you which caused Sarina AND Leah springing into action

“LUCY!!!” Sarina yelled and whistled loudly and you saw your sister stop dead in her tracks turning around as the Dutch waved her back over

“I nearly had her” Lucy exclaimed annoyed as she stood in front of Sarina

“And I would have been one midfielder down…” the Dutch deadpanned back “… now back to training”

“We talk later” your sister shot you a dark glare which made you shrink into Millies side

“Don’t worry kiddo… she’ll get some energy out and she’ll be much more calm” Millie said reassuring feeling your hesitation

Your girlfriend opted to stay in the stands bending over her hands on her knees as she tries to catch her breath

“Lucy… Georgia… a word please” Sarina called out to both of them which made your sister turn on her heels to walk back to her head coach.

Georgia was a little slower to come down from her place but made it eventually standing next to Leah so she wasn’t in your Sisters reach

“I understand it’s a… rather complicated situation” the Dutch started “… but if you can’t remain professional on the pitch I will not hesitate to send you both home.. I let you have your moments understanding that you both love her… but keep it either to a minimum or best case – leave it completely.. we have a tournament to prepare for and I can’t have two of my best players at each others throats”

“Sorry Sarina” Georgia mumbled ashamed feeling like a small kid that got scolded for having a cookie before dinner

“Yeah… sorry Coach” Lucy chimed in

“And now kiss” you chuckled finding joy in the fact that for once it wasn’t you but Lucy who got told off.

This comment resulted in a murderous glare from your sister, an eye roll from Sarina, a REALLY shocked face (and a tiny scared squeak) from Georgia and a REALLY hard slap on the back if your head courtesy of Leah.

“Good… now go and rejoin the team” Sarina smiled before turning to you “… and you… you will go inside into my office – I’ll join you in a second”

You looked horrified thinking you’re in trouble with the teams head Coach – which people could trust you on… it’s not fun

“You are not in trouble” the Dutch clarified as she saw the horror on your face “I need your observant brilliancy…” she smiled at you encouraging stroking over your head like a mother would

“Which team am I looking at?” you asked after you sighed put relieved

“Spain… they were always very good but since last year they’re killing it… I want to know why and I want a way to throw them off” Sarina said seriously

“Just drug up your players and let them loose… that’ll throw them right off” you mumbled under your breath but Sarina understood you anyway laughing at your grumpy mood

“I heard you had quite the experience in Barcelona, kleintje” the Dutch chuckled before sending you off to her office.

You just settled into the big leather chair which was normally occupied by the blonde head coach herself as Sarina stepped through the door seeing you in her chair. She just glared at you raising an eyebrow waiting for you to move. You did so with a loud groan and a huff before you plopped down on the other side of the big table into one of the chairs

“Sitting in my chair” the blonde tzked under her breath but you saw the smile tugging around her lips “I have a proposition”

Your ears perked up and you looked at her interested

“I want you as part of the Team… we’re preparing for a world cup and I want the best people…” Sarina started looking for any reaction in your face but up to now you didn’t move a muscle

“You know better than anyone I can’t play… my knees are more fucked than Lucys” you said calmly leaning back in your seat

“I don’t want you as a player… I want you as an analyst / assistant coach… I know it’s very unusual with firstly your age and you having no experience in either of these positions but I know how good you are… you pick up on the smallest things and I fully believe you could change the Game.. I also want that World Cup Title” Sarina explained and you saw she was serious about it

“I talked to FIFA about it – no pressure but I wanted to know the legal side of it… as long you have a “guardian” they see no problem since other teams send girls your age as players” the Dutch said furthermore

“Who would that guardian be?” you asked equally as serious

“whomever you want… as long as they have an English citizenship and there isn’t a conflict of interest” the blonde answers your question already knowing this would be the first thing you’d pick up on

“So Lucy is out of question” you mused to yourself

“If you keep it professional she doesn’t have to be ruled out” Sarina said lovingly knowing how much your sister means to you

“No… people could pick up on it and throw a fit… “ you said rolling your eyes

“So you accept?” the Dutch looking at you interested

“I’m not saying yes… but I’m also not saying no” you answered honestly “I need to think about it”

“Of course, mijn kleine Liefje” Sarina smiled lovingly

“You know… at this rate just adopt me already ” you smirked sensing that the serious part of your meeting was over

“Your sister would have my Head if I announce our new analyst “Y/n Wiegman” …” the Dutch deadpanned

“I mean…. I WOULD be funny” you smirked your eyes shining with mischief

“I could also announce you as a Stanway” now it was the blondes moment to smirk as you frantically shook your head

“Oh I bet Georgia and your sister would be over the moon” Sarina teased you

“They might be but I'll be six feet under” you mumbled

“I won't let that happen” the dutch grinned and pinched your cheeks

“What is it with you today Mama” you groaned as you tried to get away from her

“I missed you Liefje... and I'm happy for you” Sarina smiled letting go of you before pulling you into a loving hug “And I'm so so proud of you how you handle the whole situation”

“Thanks Mama Rina” you mumbled a little embarrassed as you pressed your face against her

“Now.... I need you to find a weak spot in the spanish play” the dutch pushed you slightly away from her and kissed your forehead “be great”

You sat down in her chair and started re-watching the spanish games from the Euros. As you expected the spanish play was nearly perfect – but just nearly. You watched every game while your sister, girlfriend, best friends and your platonic soulmate ran sprints and laps and went to the gym for recovery. You didn't even notice how much time has passed as you got mesmerized by the spanish play. The quick accurate passes. The wordless communication between the players. The link between Alexia, Jenni, Aitana and Marionna. It was truly mesmerizing. BUT – you found a weak spot which made you smirk internally. You looked up when you heard the door open again and saw Sarina entering her office.

“Liefje...” the dutch smiled softly “... it's time to leave”

“Already?” you looked confused

“You've been in here for hours... training is over... you didn't even notice me looking after you three times” Sarina said smiling

“Oh... yeah no.. sorry” you scratched the back of your neck embarrassed

“The team is already on the way back to the hotel...” the dutch said as she walked over to you to shut her computer down

“Do I have to walk back??” you blurted out shocked which caused Sarina to burst out laughing

“No... I have a rental” the dutch laughed “But you still owe me laps for interrupting my meeting yesterday” she winked

“Lessi and Toons too” you shrieked

“They already did their laps... come on... one lap” Sarina winked

“I don't have shoes for running” you tried to get out of it

“Run barefoot” the dutch shrugged her shoulders like it was the most obvious answer

Unknown to you she had a plan. She hoped when you feel the grass of the pitch again that you might be more open to be more involved in training.

“You can't be serious?” you looked at her shocked your eyes wide

“One lap” the dutch nodded

“Ugh” you groaned but started to walk past her towards the field

You sat down at the sideline slowly taking your shoes and socks off. Sarina stood back knowing well enough not to disturb you since this was something you need to experience on your own. That was part of the reason she send the bus on the way without the two of you on board. She didn't need prying eyes nor did you. You probably wouldn't do this right now if you knew there were still people around – even if it were just your sister or your girlfriend. You sat there for another minute with bare feet and Sarina saw your eyes were closed and you wriggled your toes a little bit like you remembered the feeling of grass under your feet but at the same time try to memorize it. Then you pushed yourself up and took a few careful hesitant steps before falling into an easy jog. She saw you rounding the corner flag picking up speed down the goal line before slowing down at the next corner flag. Slow easy jog down the opposite sideline, around the next corner flag picking up speed again – not a full sprint but definitely faster before rounding the fourth flag and slowing down again. To Sarinas surprise you didn't stop. You kept on running but she saw a relaxed smile on your face. Not only relaxed but also relieved. Like you just needed the little push – the little push Sarina provided to get you on the pitch again. The dutch knew you never stopped working out so it was no surprise to her that you kept going for another four rounds making it five in total before stopping at your shoes. You bend over your hands on your knees you panted. You weren't completely breathless but you were breathless in the best way. You don't know why but suddenly you feel tears leaving your eyes and a soft touch on your lower back. You leaned against Sarina both of you just standing there you enjoying the support the dutch offered silently and Sarina just enjoyed the moment she get to spend with you. To see you like this meant more to her than any victory in any big tournament – for the last three years every time Sarina looked at you she saw that broken girl on the ground who was clutching her leg crying in pain but you weren't screaming. You were just laying there writhing in pain crying silently. Sarina was quick to pass the field dropping down to her knees next to your body. You looked so broken and so small. Back then she didn’t know what to do at first but the second your hand fisted itself into her shirt she knew she needed to protect you – and get you into a hospital asap. Sarina untangled your hand from her shirt but immediately held onto your hand with her own. She called her best physio who then came running with two medics. The dutch ordered herself to stay calm for your benefit and it was exactly what you needed. Even when the medics turned you onto your back and she saw the blood seeping through your pants.

It didn't matter how much you pretended to be fine Sarina always saw that little crying girl. But not right now. Now she saw one of the strongest people she ever had the pleasure working with. Right now standing next to you while you catch your breath showed her just how much you've grown. You were still a kid by heart she knew – but as a person you grew up so much. You started to fight your fears even if it started small with five laps around the pitch

“I'm proud of you Liefje” Sarina said lowly rubbing small circles on your lower back

“I'm fucking wheezing after five laps... nothing to be proud of” you panted back

“You started to fight your fear... that's something to be proud of... and now come on – I REALLY don't want to end up on your sisters bad side because I brought you back late” the dutch winked and smiled.

[ultralightpoe]

Masked Martyrs- Finnick Odair

Authors Note: Part seven of the halloween Event! Do enjoy! More hunger games coming soon...

Warnings: talk about prostitution

Word Count: 981

Requests: OPEN

~2024 Halloween Event Masterlist

[Thank you for the gif @down-in-dixie ]

ENJOY!

The lighting in the capitol was always off, and no one seemed to understand you when you said that. In district 7 there was nothing but natural lighting since the electricity often went out and everyone had to work during the day. But it also had some of the best stars, the best view of the stars really, since everyone shared them. But the capitol seemed to hate those stars. 

Or maybe Snow was keeping you from them as some form of punishment. You might have done something wrong. Maybe he didn’t like the way you greeted the ‘guest’ he had sent over the other day. Or maybe you hadn’t smiled enough in that last interview. 

Really he could find any reason to punish you if he wanted to. 

“He’ll see you sulking.” A smooth voice fills the air, and your peace and quiet is immediately shattered by none other than Finnick Odair. “And he’ll-”

“If you don’t mind fish boy,” You begin, not bothering to tear your eyes away from the tech lamps on the wall, wondering how long it had taken to make them. “I’m staring at the stars.”

“Those, lumbergal, are not stars.” He laughs, not seeming to worry about your attitude at all. 

“They are the closest thing I could find.” 

“THERE YOU TWO ARE!” Someone cheers, a clapping sound pulling your attention. As you turn your head to see whoever was approaching you manager to catch Finnicks gaze for a second before spotting the capital's favorite stylist. 

You hadn’t bothered to learn his name, you knew Snow would manage to make him disappear the second he got bored of him. He had gone through 6 since you won your games. 

“I spent far too long on the prizes of the Capitol for them to lurking in the corner. Come come. Immediately. Our brave president has requested you make an appearance.” Before you could move to get up the stylist was turning to meet you where you sat, shoving a gold envelope in your hand before his hands were upon you. 

They roamed to fix up the stupid dress he had made for you, and though you flared with unease you had learned long ago to ignore it.  And though Finnick was in the room you tried to remind yourself that he would know this life as much as you and you shouldn’t have to worry about it. 

And yet his hand came to flick the stylists off of you with ease, a glare set in his eye as you stood up. 

“We’ll be right out.” 

“I was sent to-”

“You gave us the message, we will be out soon.” Finnick snaps before an easy smile breaks out. The stylist wisely chooses not to fight on it, rushing off to find another one of his costumes as you take to fixing it yourself. 

He had made a capitol worthy fairy costume for you, and wearing a dress with this much cleavage made you miss celebrating hallows eve in your district even if there was no food or warmth in the beginning of winter. 

Finnick had been dressed as…. Well you had no clue. 

With blue glittery makeup sitting on his cheekbone and a thin strand of pearls wrapped around his arm. A sheen blue fabric was draped on one shoulder that covered his stomach but not his pecs, and you didn’t even want to keep looking at the pants. 

“A siren.” He mumbles, smiling as he watches you watch him. 

“Fitting.”

“Because I’m a whore.”

“No.” You snap out, throat tight. “Because you were made for water. And the fact that you think I would….. Would ever call you that….”

You shake your head, moving to walk away quickly with that envelope still in your hand. He follows, fixing the back of your dress before fixing your wing and moving to walk alongside you. 

“The envelope if you will. I’d like to get our dear presidents message before you destroy it.” He quickly swipes the envelope from you and tears it open, reading the words. You watch as he tries to smile, as if what he was reading wasn’t bothering him, but you could also see the way his jaw tightens. 

“What does it say?”

“He wants us to meet a client-”

“Together?” You blurt, stopping in your tracks. 

“Yes.”

“But-”

“Do you want to see lanterns?”

“I’m sorry?” You laugh before he reaches for your hand and drags you with him. He leads you through the back tunnels of the capitol building and if you were a better person you might have thought about ways to escape. 

But you were broken and you knew it was a useless plan. 

Not that any of that mattered anyways, because as you followed the ‘siren’ through the halls you could only get excited. For the first time in months you were excited. 

He pushes a thick door open with ease and leads you out for you to realize you had managed to sneak into the gardens where they had lit the pumpkin lanterns. 

“Oh… my…”

They had been decorated with glitter, the same gold glitter that you had been decorated with, and the fires were different colors. 

The warmth of the fires was perfect, like an invisible blanket, and the colors mixed with the gold glitter made it almost magical. 

“How did you know about these?”

“I saw them setting up earlier, which is why I came to find you.” He hums, leaning against the wall as you trace a finger through glitter. 

“And you came to find me?”

“You’re the only person I knew would like it as much as I did.” He smiles and you can’t fight the smile that crosses your own lips. 

“Happy Hallowed Eve, Siren.”

“Happy Hallowed Eve, Fairy.” And for a second, as you peered into his eyes, you could see stars again.

-

[thank you for the gif @starefantasisedroolrepeat ]

[phie04]

Inconvenience | g. clarke

Chapter 3 - Ikea Trip

Summary: four boys and noa in ikea, what could go wrong?

Word Count: 1.1k+

Warnings: swearing, George being a dick

noamurphy

liked by chrismd10, arthurtv and 13,473 others

noamurphy literally got halfway to Ikea before they demanded to stop for food

comments open

chrismd10 well we were hungry what did you expect?

⮑ noamurphy wait??? to get Ikea meatballs???

⮑ gkbarry_ noa speaking facts as usual

⮑ noamurphy love you babe x

arthurtv but we wanted hot dogs

⮑ noamurphy yeah and I wanted a successful football career but we don’t always get what we want

⮑ arthurhill just saw chris choke on his hot dog after he read this

⮑ fan new Noa lore?????

fan1 she’s so real for giving us this

⮑ fan2 mother really fed us today

⮑ noamurphy I worry for you guys sometimes

fan3 Ikea vlog 👉👈🥺 pls

⮑ noamurphy arthurtv ?

⮑ arthurtv 🫡

“Thank fuck.” Noa muttered, as the car finally pulled into the Ikea store parking lot. Somehow, their half an hour journey had doubled in length when Arthur TV declared that he was hungry and wanted to get hot dogs. “Honestly, all you guys do is think about your stomachs.”

“But I was hungry-“

“Well aware of the Television, maybe you should have had breakfast.”

“I had two Costco cookies!”

“Is that really what constitutes as a healthy breakfast these days.” Noa replied, rubbing her temples. “C’mon, let’s get this show off the road and into Swedish Heaven.”

Noa managed to herd the boys into the showroom area without much fuss, but once they were inside was where the real trouble began.

Arthur, who had decided to vlog the entire trip was running round the bedrooms with Chris, deciding to tumble out of a wardrobe every five minutes to declare that ‘they weren’t in Narnia any more’, which not only drew the attention of all the other shoppers, but some of the workers as well.

“Dixie! Please hold yourself together for five minutes, please? Just five minutes so that I can choose a bed frame and wardrobe…preferably one that you and Arthur haven’t tried to jump out of.” Noa pleaded, examining a black wooden bed.

“What colour do you want everything in? Because that will narrow the search down.” Chris said, before gazing at a set of bunk beds. “You know, if you ever wanted to have more than one person stay-“

“I’m not getting bunk beds Chris.” She sighed. “I’m not seven years old. Or making a nerf war sequel with my cousins.”

Starting to turn red, as the others snicked, Chris shook his head. “I was a kid okay? And at the time it looked good and we had fun!”

“Is anyone feeling thirsty?” Arthur TV asked, a slow grin starting to form. “I could go for a can of quick revive.”

Chris groaned in frustration, throwing his hands in the air. “Children, I’m friends with actual children.”

The four looked at each other, processing what he had just said, before dissolving into fits of giggles. Realising what they had interpreted, Chris shook his head and began to walk off. “Great, now they’re going to joke that I’m a nonce. Wonderful, just what I needed today, really, really it is.”

“Oh come on Chris, we know you don’t like kids. George, on the other hand-“

“Nope not even starting that conversation.” George grumbled, beginning to play with the drawers of one of the bed. “Why would someone want drawers on their bed?”

“If they don’t have enough room for a wardrobe I’m guessing. Not everyone has YouTuber money you see.” Noa replied, raising her eyebrows at him to reinforce her point. George just rolled at her and walked away, causing Noa to turn to the two Arthurs.

“Okay, what is his problem? Was it something I said? Or did?” She asked, moving to go inspect the next set of beds.

“Uh, we don’t actually know, we’re trying to figure it out too.”

“So he hasn’t even told you guys? Don’t you have like, guy time where you air all your grievances about stuff, and then bark like dogs at the end of it?”

Arthur (Hill) snorted. “No, you’re thinking of the Diamond Dogs, from Ted Lasso.”

“Shit yeah I am. Point still stands, he hasn’t said anything?”

“Not to us at least. And then I’d guess nothing to Chris either, because Chris then would have told us.”

Noa sighed as she ran her hand over a wooden bed frame. “Great, so one of your closest friends is pissed at me and I don’t even know why.”

“I’m sure he’ll come round, don’t even worry about it.”

“Thanks.” She muttered. “You know what, I think I’m gonna get this one. It’s cute, it’ll fit in my room, and I’m pretty sure there’s a matching desk and wardrobe.”

Grinning wickedly, Arthur (Frederick) beckoned Chris and George back over to join them. “You know, I reckon you need to test it, just to make sure that you like it.”

Noa smiled and flopped onto the bed. “Happy now?”

“Nah, I reckon you need someone to test it with you know? Just in case you ever find someone, or get lucky on a night out.” Arthur said, turning his head slowly to look at George.

“Why are you looking at me?” He asked, a small undertone of disgust in his voice, causing Noa’s eyebrows to raise gently.

“Well my shoes are muddy, so that’s a no. And Arthur and Chris are like her brothers, so I wouldn’t ask that of them.”

“But you’d ask that of me.” He grumbled quietly, moving to stand next to the bed. George sighed. “Move over then.”

Noa did so, smiling apologetically at George, before shooting a glare at the other three, who had all whipped out their phones.

George bit his lip as he laid down next to Noa, and began glaring daggers at the back of her head. He was hating every second, especially the fact that no matter where he looked, all he could see was Noa. From the top of her head all the way to where her hair fell on her back, obscuring the graphic print on the back of her hoodie. For a second, he wasn’t sure if he was in Ikea or his own personal hell, crafted for him by Arthur Hill.

“Wait, Noa you gotta make sure you’ve got enough room to roll over.” Chris added, throwing the couple an enthusiastic double thumbs up.

“I’m gonna kill you.” Noa said, only loud enough for George to hear, as she narrowed her eyes at Chris, who was too busy grinning from ear to ear, along with the two Arthurs.

George saw this and averted his gaze, doing everything he possibly could to avoid meeting Noa’s eyes as she faced him. He resisted for as long as he could, but eventually caved.

Luckily, he didn’t meet Noa’s eyes, as she had presumably fazed out, gazing at the geometric pattern on the pillow. George’s stare softened slightly has he studied her features, noticing the faint freckles that dotted over her nose, as well as the small circle of amber that added contrast to her icy blue eyes.

George wasn’t sure how he had been staring at her, but he was saved from any further embarrassment by Chris clearing his throat. “Glad that’s over.” He said, immediately sitting up and fixing his hair, leaving Noa behind.

She coughed, rubbing her face as if it would absolve her of any feelings of uneasiness and embarrassment. “Thanks for that.” She muttered to the two Arthurs. “I’m sure that really helped the situation.”

“I reckon so yeah.” Arthur Television agreed happily.

“Being sarcastic Artie, being sarcastic.” She sighed, patting his shoulder.

chrismd10

liked by noamurphy, arthurhill and 386,820 others

chrismd10 can’t buy an ikea bed without testing it first

comments open

fan1 noa??? and George???? what is going on right now???

⮑ fan2 I was there and I don’t think they’re a thing bc Arthur asked them to do it

⮑ fan1 but why would he do that if not for…?

noamurphy hate you arthurhill

⮑ arthurhill love you too

maxbalegde can’t believe my mans in bed with someone else

⮑ noamurphy not my fault I promise he’s all yours x

fan4 I know they say that there’s nothing going on but look how close they are!!!! really confused rn

⮑ arthurtv Watch my vlog and then you’ll be fine

gkbarry_ omg who’s that fittie in bed

⮑ georgeclarke yours truly

⮑ gkbarry_ ew no not you

⮑ chrismd get roasted George

⮑ georgeclarke shut up hobbit

[ereardon]

Golden Hour || Ch. 10

[Bob Floyd x Bradley Bradshaw x OC]

A Bob Floyd & Bradley Bradshaw AU [Hart of Dixie inspired]

Synopsis: Willow, Georgia. Barely even a town, just a speck on a map that you tried to wipe off, mistaking it for a crumb. You’re the outsider: a fancy New York doctor, fresh out of a failed engagement, with zero primary care experience. You’re also the new town doctor, taking over for a recent retiree who was beloved. His son, Bob Floyd, is the other physician at the practice, and takes an immediate dislike to you. But you were looking for a fresh start, and Willow doesn’t seem all that bad if you can get past the fact that there's only one restaurant in town. It helps that you've caught the eye of Bradley Bradshaw, the town attorney, despite the fact that you vowed to take a break from dating. How long until you start to make friends in a town where social circles have been set in stone since elementary school? And what will it take to make Bob Floyd see you’re not as bad as he wants to believe you are?

Pairing: Bob Floyd x OC; Bradley Bradshaw x OC

Tropes: Love triangle, enemies to lovers

Warnings: Angst, cursing, alcohol

Chapter summary: Bradley invites Bob and Olive to dinner. Olive and Bob have a real conversation following their spontaneous kiss

WC: 2K

Masterlist here; previous chapter here

The office was busy by the time you showed up. You were late on purpose, because the earlier you showed up the more likely you were to run into Bob. 

“Dr. James.” Molly was frazzled. You frowned as she showed a handful of paperclipped charts in your arms. “You’re late. We have five patients waiting for you.” 

“Give me two minutes and then send the first person in.” You turned, trying not to look up as you made your way into your office. Closing the door, you collapsed into your desk chair. On the other side of the wall, you heard Bob’s voice, low murmurs. A shiver crawled up your back. 

And then the door swung open. “Doc!” 

“Mr. Peterson,” you said, standing up. “What’s bothering you today?” 

He grunted and sat down, heavily, on the exam table. “This bum hip, like always.” 

You snapped on a pair of gloves and turned to him. “Alright, let’s see what’s going on.” 

The day was chock full of patients. Mr. Peterson’s arthritic hip, two cases of spider bites, one kid with pink eye, an ice cream shop worker with carpal tunnel. 

It was well after seven by the time you stood up and inched your door open, peering around. The hallway was empty, Molly was gone. You breathed out a sigh of relief, grabbing your purse and shutting your office door. But just as you turned, a shadow crossed the floor and you looked up. 

Bob looked like a deer in headlights. He had one hand on the doorknob to his office, his hair tousled. “Dr. James,” he said, voice low and rough. You remembered what his hands felt like on your neck, his lips on yours. 

Your voice gasped a little. “Bob.” 

His blue eyes flashed for a moment and you weren’t sure if it was excitement or anger flooding his features. And then all of the light drained out of his eyes and he turned, breezing past you, practically running out the door once again. 

***

You were sitting on a barstool at Breakers, nursing a glass of white boxed wine, when a pair of hands wrapped around your shoulders, causing you to gasp. 

Bradley spun you around on the chair, a grin spread wide across his face. He leaned down and kissed you, in front of everyone, leaving you gasping for air as he pulled back. 

“Hey there, Doc,” he said, settling onto the seat next to you. “Miss me?” 

You crossed your legs, hooking one heel into the bottom bar of his stool and Bradley placed a large, warm hand on your bare thigh. “Of course.” 

He grinned. “What did you get up to while I was gone?” 

You hesitated. On the other side of the bar, Phoenix was watching the two of you, polishing a glass from a few feet away, her dark hair swept up in a ponytail. You shrugged. “Oh not much. Just work, you know. Lots of patients, had to do some filing and admin.” 

Bradley frowned. “Admin? I hope Floyd isn’t pushing you too hard.” 

The memory of Bob’s kiss flitted across your mind. The way his hand had felt on the back of your neck, tugging you forward with reckless abandon. “No,” you whispered. “He’s been great.” 

He raised an eyebrow. “Great? So the two of you are finally getting along?” 

“Um, yeah, I think so.” 

Bradley pulled his hand from your thigh and smiled, tugging his phone out and placing it on the bar. “Perfect. Then let’s do dinner, the three of us. My place.” 

“Oh, no, I—”

“He’s a good guy,” Bradley interrupted. “And we’ve been friends for a long time. So I’d love if the three of us could hang out.” 

There was something finite about his words. He had made up his mind. You nodded. “OK, sure. Dinner.” 

***

Standing at Bradley’s doorstep, you raised one hand to knock before taking a deep breath. And then you lowered your fist and let out the breath. 

What the hell were you doing? Why was this so uncomfortable? You had slept with Bradley once, and kissed Bob once. Did either of them mean anything? You weren’t exclusive with Bradley, you weren’t even dating. You weren’t sure what you were. 

On the other hand, Bob Floyd acted like you didn’t exist 99% of the time. The other 1% of the time he was actively hating you. 

So why should you care if it was weird for him to see you and Bradley together? 

“Are you going to knock, or do you expect the door to fly open through telekinesis?” 

You whirled around. Bob stood a few steps down on the pathway, holding a bottle of wine. HIs face was unreadable. 

“I was going to knock,” you said. 

Bob stepped closer and you caught a whiff of his soap – minty and herbal – and leaned over, knocking on the door sharply, his eyes never leaving yours. 

The door swung open a second later, Bradley standing barefoot with a kitchen towel slung over one shoulder. “Hey guys, come on in.” 

Bob held out a hand and you stepped inside first, the sound of your heels clacking against the wooden floor. To your surprise, Bradley leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to your lips. A blush crept over your face and neck, and you averted your eyes from him or Bob. 

“Is that for tonight?” Bob nodded, handing over the bottle of wine. “NIce, thanks man. Come on in.” 

You scampered behind Bradley, unable to meet Bob’s gaze, wandering into the kitchen where he had a bowl of guacamole out and some chips. Instinctively, you dragged a chip through the green dip and shoved it into your face to prevent talking. Nerves were bubbling at the surface of your skin. 

“How was the trial?” Bob’s voice surprised you. He was a man of so few words, so having him lead the conversation was shocking. 

Bradley stood at the stove, stirring a pot of beans. “Long,” he replied. “Tedious, as always.” There was a pause. Then, “Anything happen while I was gone?” 

Was it you, or did the air in the room shift? You quickly shoved another tortilla chip in your mouth to cover the silence. Bob put one hand on the counter, not too far from where you sat hunched over the bowl of chips. “Not much,” he replied, nonchalant. “Usual Willow drama.” 

Bradley raised an eyebrow. “Drama?” 

You practically choked on the chip. 

Bob looked at you before responding, “The Mayfields are at it again.” 

Relief, hot like vodka, spread through your body. Bradley laughed. “Really? I don’t want to have to oversee the third divorce.”

“Third?” you asked. 

He nodded, but Bob’s voice was the one that cut through the kitchen air. “Mr. and Mrs. Mayfield got divorced probably ten years ago, and then promptly had an affair together and got pregnant. They got married again before the baby was born, but divorced when Anna turned three.” 

“So they’re divorced?” 

“Nope, got together again a few years later. But from the sounds of it, divorce number three might be incoming.” 

“This town should be its own sitcom,” you said, lifting the glass of wine that Bradley had poured to your lips. 

“So have you changed your mind about our little town, Doc?” Bradley asked, turning around pouring Bob another scotch. You hadn’t even seen him pour the first one. 

You shrugged. “It’s no New York.” 

“Nothing is.” Bradley put the wooden spoon down. “Floyd, remember that time you came to visit me at Columbia?” 

You frowned. Bob had gone to New York? You couldn’t picture him in the city. With all the suits and fast walking and snippy baristas. He would stick out like a sore thumb in his jeans and button down shirts, his Southern twang. 

Bob nodded. “I still think about that Korean chicken place you brought me to.” 

Bradley laughed. “Wow, Koreatown. I haven’t thought of that in ages.” 

You leaned on the counter and watched them. There was something so casual and easy about the way they spoke with each other. It was the first time it dawned on you that they had been friends for years. 

And you were getting in the middle of a friendship.

Dinner was delicious, with black beans sauteed with bacon and pork belly tacos and margaritas so strong your head started to buzz halfway through the meal. 

Before you realized it, you and Bob were standing in the doorway again. 

“Thanks for dinner,” Bob said, reaching out and clapping Bradley on the shoulder. 

Bradley grinned. “Anytime Floyd.” He turned to you, leaning in, his lips brushing against your ear. “You should stay.” 

You pulled back, face frozen, head shaking. “I have a lot of work in the morning,” you whispered. “But I’ll call you.” 

He nodded as Bob opened the door and the two of you were ushered out into the cool night. Before you could even squeak out a word, Bob was halfway down the driveway, speeding toward his house next door. You broke out into practically a jog behind him, running up the stairs to his house in heels. “Floyd!” 

He whipped around, eyes wide, one hand on the door. He was silent. 

You crossed your arms over your chest, suddenly cold. “So this is it?” you asked. “You’re just going to run away every time you see me? What the hell is going on?” you demanded. “Do you take it back?” 

Those last words came out as a sharp whisper. Bob reached out, grabbing your arm and pulling you around the front porch of the house to the opposite side, so you were out of view of Bradley’s home. 

Even when the two of you rounded the corner, his fingers didn’t leave your skin. Instead, he stepped closer, until you could feel the heat radiating off of his muscular body. “No,” he said gruffly. “I don’t want to take it back.” 

“Then what?” you pleaded. “What do you want?” 

“Take a wild guess, Olive.” Bob cocked his head to one side. 

“I don’t know.” 

“Yes, you do.” His voice forced a chill through your bones, a tingling settling in between your legs. “You’re a smart girl,” he whispered. “I think you know.” 

Your chest heaved uncontrollably. No one had ever looked at you the way Bob Floyd was looking at you in that moment. Not Bradley. Not Peter. Not any of the men you had dated in the past. It was all consuming. It threatened to swallow you whole. 

“We always want what we can’t have,” Bob murmured, letting his fingertips drop from your arm. “That’s human nature, I guess.” 

“Is that your diagnosis, Doctor?” 

He nodded. 

You shook your head. “In my professional opinion, it’s better to tell the truth than to hide how you feel.” 

“So you’re a psychiatrist now?” he murmured. 

“God, never.” 

Bob grinned. He lifted one arm, placing it on the siding of the house behind your head, creating a triangle with his body, practically pinning you against the house. You looked up, eyes wide. “Bradley is my best friend,” he whispered. “And you’re my business partner.”

“Almond milk isn’t real milk.” 

He frowned. “What?” 

“I thought we were just listing facts.” 

Bob shook his head and grunted. He was exasperated with you. You were all too familiar with that. “Jesus Chris, Livvy, I swear—”

You interrupted him. “Livvy?” No one had ever called you that before. 

His eyes flashed. “I mean Olive.” He flushed. 

You shook your head. “I like it.” 

Bob leaned down, letting his free hand cup your cheek. “Livvy,” he murmured. 

“Yes?” 

“Shut up and let me kiss you.”  

Tag list or follow my library page @ereardonlibrary:

@eli2447 @cool-ultra-nerd @teacupsandtopgun @shanimallina87 @xoxabs88xox @clancycucumber230 @djs8891

@blue-aconite @wkndwlff @taytaylala12

@double-j @topguncultleader @momc95 @hangmandruigandmav @minamisulemisa @shawnsblue @seresinhangmanjake @brehonodea @babyminghao @crthurston @angelbabyangee @secretsicanthideanymorey

@mizzzpinkink @mygyn @sadpetalsstuff @averyhotchner @oneelleandaneye @rosewritesitout @atarmychick007

@wittywhispers @wildlyobserving @eyesthatroll @localhockeygirll @rosiahills22 @sexythollandd @djs88911 @rxmtoon @darkestbeforethedawn166 @cactajuiceice @purplevortexx @dempy @lemur46

@louie-bugug @arson-tmm @valkyrja-siren-blog @avengers-fixation @fudge13 @phantomxoxo @a-court-of-roscoe-and-babyy @not-two-shrimp @abaker7474 @evans-dejong @mandylove1000 @teacupsandtopgun @na-ta-sh-aa @xoxabs88xox @xomrsalliej4787xo @th3-oncoming-storm @3tabbiesandalab @spinning-away @fairyheart @bobfloydsbabe

[gimmick-blog-bracket]

Have there been any blogs that have been voted against being gimmicks?

It seems at the moment as if all the "undecided" qualifying polls will go through as "yes," but I'm not willing to make any decisions based on that except for not including them on this list.

Anyways, here's a list of all the submissions that didn't make it:

born-against-daily (failed its qualifying poll)

bovine-blogger (failed its qualifying poll)

charlottan (deactivated, also "apple car" could not be reasonably considered a gimmick)

cripplecharacters (failed its qualifying poll)

dear-ao3 (failed its qualifying poll)

digital-slenderman (failed its qualifying poll)

elitegreet (failed its qualifying poll)

evilwizard (failed its qualifying poll)

fakest-thickwoman (failed its qualifying poll)

fr-winn-dixie (failed its qualifying poll)

herpsandbirds (failed its qualifying poll)

identifying-cleaning-products (deactivated)

identifying-poll-distributions (asked to not be included)

is-this-yuri (failed its qualifying poll)

its-evil-target-official (deactivated)

jeweledmonstera (failed its qualifying poll)

jstor (failed its qualifying poll)

mcytblrconfessions (failed its qualifying poll)

onionpainter (failed its qualifying poll)

pizza (ok. even though pizza is deactivated and "shows up on any post that mentions pizza" isn't really a gimmick I wanted to include this one. I really did. But I ultimately decided against it.)

pjackk (failed its qualifying poll)

probably (I am very sure this one is spam. @probably doesn't exist, and "old" isn't a gimmick.)

rainbow-completionist (deactivated)

seven-counter (deactivated)

the-barking-dog (deactivated or, possibly, never existed? I really don't know what happened here)

[amassofhumanity]

Seven for a Sunday

Woke up at 1:55 am this morning. Wasn't sure which 1:55 it was, CDT or CST. Found out five minutes later when the clock fell back an hour. Ugh.

Whoops! Seven for Sunday didn’t happen.

Let’s go with Monday Musings.

We’re under a tornado warning. This has been going on for at least an hour. So far it’s missed us but we’re not out of the woods yet. Looks like one has a good chance of coming straight towards us.

My city doesn’t have tornado sirens. I’m in the south. Dixie Alley for tornadoes. The powers that be said it was because people nowadays have other ways of getting that information from other sources. Presumably they mean smart phones. I don’t know what their reasoning was prior to 2007/8 when smartphones became popular. 🤦‍♂️ I live about a mile from the university and they have sirens and I can hear them going off.

I finished training and certification for the new job this past Friday. They then surprised us with doing an hour of taking live calls. That was interesting. This is a temporary job that ends December 9th. I had two interviews lined up with similar customer service outsourcing companies.

One of these companies blew off my interview. They sent three emails the morning of reminding me of the interview. They never called. A few days later they sent a “We know things come up, blah, blah. you can reschedule if you want to.” Hard pass.

The other interview went well. I got an offer within a few hours. Unfortunately, I’ll still be working m current contract and couldn’t take the job. They reached out today with another opportunity but still not in my availability. They said there are other opportunities coming up and they will keep me in mind.

That’s all for now. I’ll keep you updated with how things turn out weather wise. The threat of severe storms will be around until at least midnight if not later.

[thedepressedweasel]

Here are the theme songs for the characters in The Super Mario Bros. Movieverse:

Mario: "Sweet Victory" by David Glen Eisley

Luigi: "Gotta Be" by Des'ree

Princess Peach: "Fighter" by Christina Aguilera

Toad: "Motion" by Vandelux

Toadette: "Live It Up" by Kathryn Ostenberg

Becky Koopa: "Meadows of Heaven" by Nightwish

Yoshi: "Watermelon Wormhole" by Lane 8

Donkey Kong: "DK Rap" from Donkey Kong 64

Diddy Kong: "Holding On" by Y.V.E. 48

Cranky Kong: "Thunderstruck" by AC/DC

Dixie Kong: "Deeper Grounds" by Jan Blomqvist ft. Mahri

Rosalina: "A Sky Full of Stars" by Coldplay

Princess Daisy: "Kernkraft 400" by Zombie Nation

Carmine Koopa: "Claire du Lune" by Claude Debussy

Bowser: "Bowser's Fury" from Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Kamek: "Love Comes Again" by Pascal Jr.

Koopa General: "Losing Self" by Jay Aliyev

Lt. Jasper "Eyepatch" Koopa: "Seven Miles" by Roudeep

Bowser Jr.: "Bad to the Bone" by George Thurgood

Wario: "Can't Hold Us" by Macklemore

Waluigi: "Sexbomb" by Mousse T. ft. Tom Jones

Lumalee: "Wake Me Up When September Ends" by Green Day

Penguin King: "Snow" by Zach Bryan

Mayor Pauline: "One Up Girl" from Super Mario Odyssey

Ludwig von Koopa: "Ode To Joy" by Ludwig van Beethoven (Ironic, eh?)

Roy Koopa: "I Want You Bad" by The Offspring

Wendy O. Koopa: "Good Time Girl" by Sofi Tukker ft. Charlie Barker

Morton Koopa Jr.: "In the End" by Linkin Park

Iggy Koopa: "He Blinded Me with Science" by Melissa Lefton

Larry Koopa: "Aura" by Avoure

Lemmy Koopa: "Hello" by Karmin

(Note: I will add more if necessary.)

(Edit: I decided to add the Koopalings for now for some reason.)

[operagxreal]

@its-target-official @fr-winn-dixie @big-mayo-official

im so tired.

extras + time lapse undercut (plus some notes from me for everyone in the drawings <3)

^extra thing i made before i actually started drawing + my refrence image

some personal notes: this was SO fun to draw!! <3 I really loved displaying the dynamic between you three and drawing a poly relationship. i dont see a lot of poly stuff in the media and it just felt really nice to have something representing that. i love you all so much!!! some notes for target: IM SO SORRY IT TOOK SO LONG. i started this project thinking i could get it done in two hours, tops. it took me SEVEN HOURS. anyways, i really loved the detailed description you gave and really hope i didnt miss anything! overall, your character was very colourblind-friendly and i loved drawing them.

some notes for dixie: I FUCKING LOVED DRAWING YOU. the outfit is based off of winn dixie’s official uniform but i made it a little bit more silly. you give me the vibes of someone who owns a million sitckers and clothing patches and i really wanted to represent that in the art. 10/10 and i will be drawing you again.

some notes for mayo: i had the HARDEST time drawing you! i am not super into weirdcore but this was a really fun and challenging draw. i based your outfit off of the basic mayo colours (i hope) but this also meant working with colours i cannot see! i really loved the inclusion that you brought to the draw, though.

okay its 12 am, goodnight :3

[annoyangle]

so if we're all circles and squares which one am I- Also since your mouth is behind (?) your eye, do you ever accidentally lick or bite your own eyeball?

OH HOHO SOMEONE SOUNDS A LITTLE INSECURE. YOU ARE MARKED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE AS A POSSIBLE MINION, SO DON'T EVEN WORRY ABOUT IT!! OKAY, SO PREPARE TO BE SUPER GROSSED OUT BY MY WEIRD BIOLOGY! BUT YEAH! MY SEVEN STOLEN TONGUES ARE ALL KINDA ROSEPETALED IN THERE AROUND THE EYESOCKET KEEPING THINGS DANK AND WET! ONE OF MY TONGUES IS DEDICATED JUST TO LICKING! TO KEEP MY VISION CLEAR AS CAN BE! I'M SURE YOU CAN IMAGINE JUST HOW MUCH DUST, LINT, BLOOD, DEAD PINES HAIR, AND GROUND UP BONE GETS IN THIS DUMB OL' EYE OF MINE! THOSE SAME TONGUES ALSO BECOME MY TEETH! IT'S CRAZY! I DIDN'T PLAN IT THAT WAY! SO YEAH, I ACTUALLY HAVE BITTEN MY OWN EYEBALL A FEW TIMES, USUALLY BECAUSE I'M DISTRACTED DURING A MODE SWITCH FOR MUNCHIES WHILE WATCHING YOUR SPECIES DO SOMETHING HILARIOUS!

LIKE ARGUING OVER WHICH MIGRAINE-INDUCING SUBGENRE OF GRAVEN IMAGE OF ME IS THE """"""CORRECT"""""" ONE (NONE OF YOU ARE EVER CLOSE TO RIGHT AND NEVER WILL BE RIGHT AS LONG AS YOU ONLY HAVE TWO EYES AND THREE DIMENSIONS TO LOOK AND THINK WITH, BUT KEEP HOPING!!! I FEED ON YOUR EFFORTS!!)

OR LETTING COMPUTERS DRIVE YOUR STAINLESS STEEL WHEELED LUNCHBOXES AT 150 MILES AN HOUR WHILE BITS OF IT FLY OFF DUE TO LOUSY MANUFACTURING, AND DECAPITATE BLAMELESS PASSERS BY! AND YOU CAN'T STOP THE CAR BECAUSE THE TOUCHSCREEN FOR THE BRAKES RED-SCREENED DUE TO INTERNET CONNECTION FAILURES. I LAUGH UNTIL I CRY!!! OW, MY EYE!!!!

I ALSO CATEGORICALLY DENY ANY OF THOSE BASELESS RUMORS YOU MAY HAVE HEARD THAT IF YOU SOMEHOW MANAGE TO DETACH MY EYE AND PLANT IT FOR A FEW HOURS YOU CAN GET A BRAND NEW BILL OUT OF IT. THOSE RUMORS ARE 100% NOT TRUE! YOU SHOULDN'T TRY AND CHALLENGE ME FOR MY EYE IN HOPES OF GETTING YOUR VERY OWN BILL CIPHER! YOU'D REGRET IT! THERE'S EVEN LESS TRUTH TO THE RUMOR THAT THE EYE THAT I LOST DURING THE FIGHT WITH THE SHACKTRON AND GOT THROWN AWAY IS OUTSIDE THE WEIRDNESS BARRIER OF GRAVITY FALLS SOMEWHERE IN THE WOODS, ROLLING AROUND GATHERINGA PROTECTIVE COAT OF MOSS (WHAT A STUPID SAYING!!), SCHEMING AND REFUELING BY EATING THE LOCAL FAUNA UNTIL IT CAN RETURN FOR ITS OWN SPECIAL BRAND OF REVENGE AND CHICANERY AT THE LOCAL """"DIXIE BOY""" TRUCK STOP! 100% NOT TRUE!

[krispyweiss]

“It Must be Sunday,” So Darrell Scott Does Not Cover the Chicks on “Long Time Gone;” He Wrote It

Darrell Scott is not covering the (Dixie) Chicks when he plays “Long Time Gone.”

Scott is the hit song’s writer and composer. And his just-released live version from May 13, 2022, in South Carolina with his eponymous Electrifying Trio gives insight into Scott’s various ideas for the song.

Playing a Gibson Les Paul guitar and backed by Bryn Davies on double bass and drummer Jeff Sipe, Scott is every bit the shredder on this seven-minute conflagration, out as the latest video in his “It Must be Sunday” series. It’s 98-percent pure rock ‘n’ roll with 2 percent jazz bleeding into the lengthy instrumental breaks that never noodle but swing instead.

The singing is as impeccable as the playing, making for a good ol’ Sunday mornin’, or afternoon, or evenin’ … or whatever day and time a listener comes across this “Long Time Gone.”

Read Sound Bites’ previous “It Must be Sunday” coverage here.

1/12/25

[hugshughes]

my ass keeps thinking of new ttpd fics after already planning like at least seven. shit!

OKAY BUT IMAGINE:

hughes!reader x trevor zegras to....

CHLOE OR SAM OR SOPHIA OR MARCUS.

like they broke up 1-2 years ago and it's their first time seeing each other since AT THE HUGHES LAKE HOUSE IN THE SUMMER.

"and you have some kids with an internet starlet"

DIXIE DAMELIO????

"hands in the hair of somebody in darkness named Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus"

he had a player era after their breakup????

okay let me know if this is stupid or not bye

[lasudio]

VeronaHills, Round Seven: Traveller

It began as a quiet breakfast time for the Travellers, only filled with the sounds of Sarah nose-deep in her biscuit bowl, and Danny eating off the floor (all the world's a plate!).

"Where was dad last night? I came downstairs for water and he wasn't on the couch."

Trisha tried not to appear too taken aback by Tina's query. The answer that came to mind didn't seem appropriate to relay at the breakfast table, but her silence was only getting longer. She swore the dogs were twitching their ears in her direction as they ate. She finally, carefully selected a few words:

"He came to bed."

The words unsaid: We fucked.

"Oh," Tina uttered at the toast crumbs on her plate.

Trisha felt like her back was pressed against a floodgate of justification. Things were complicated, but tangling in the sheets made things seem less so, even for a little while. The alternative was eternal couch-sleeping and eventual asset-splitting. Resentment tasted better when it was laid bare, with only single syllables traded between rapid breaths. This kind of reasoning simply could not be shared with a teenage daughter - so breakfast fell quiet again.

Close to midnight, Tina opted to slide into the passenger seat of her new friend Dixie's car. Well, it was someone's car, anyway. Tina didn't care - if it had four wheels and could get her away from the house for a spell, she'd take it.

There was no one on the couch to catch her out now.

[ereardon]

Golden Hour || Ch. 9

[Bob Floyd x Bradley Bradshaw x OC]

A Bob Floyd & Bradley Bradshaw AU [Hart of Dixie inspired]

Synopsis: Willow, Georgia. Barely even a town, just a speck on a map that you tried to wipe off, mistaking it for a crumb. You’re the outsider: a fancy New York doctor, fresh out of a failed engagement, with zero primary care experience. You’re also the new town doctor, taking over for a recent retiree who was beloved. His son, Bob Floyd, is the other physician at the practice, and takes an immediate dislike to you. But you were looking for a fresh start, and Willow doesn’t seem all that bad if you can get past the fact that there's only one restaurant in town. It helps that you've caught the eye of Bradley Bradshaw, the town attorney, despite the fact that you vowed to take a break from dating. How long until you start to make friends in a town where social circles have been set in stone since elementary school? And what will it take to make Bob Floyd see you’re not as bad as he wants to believe you are?

Pairing: Bob Floyd x OC; Bradley Bradshaw x OC

Tropes: Love triangle, enemies to lovers

Warnings: Angst, cursing, alcohol

Chapter summary: Bob invites Olive to the office after hours to sort paperwork ... but maybe there's more intent behind the date after all

WC: 1.6K

Masterlist here; previous chapter here

In the morning, you woke up to a clattering sound in the living room. You sat up straight in bed, the strap of your silky nightgown slipping down your shoulder as you sucked in a tense breath. 

And then the memories flooded back. Bob showing up at your door late at night drenched from the rain. His panic attack. 

The fact that he was asleep on your couch at that very moment. 

Before you could even think, you were scrambling out of bed, throwing open the double doors to the living room as Bob stood hunched over the couch, putting on his shoes. He looked up, hair mussed on one side, blue eyes wide. “Sorry,” he muttered. “I, uh, I was trying to be quiet.” His eyes roamed over your chest quickly, before zipping back up to your face. 

You crossed your arms, suddenly aware of how thin your nightgown was. “It’s OK, I was awake.” A lie, of course, and he knew it too. But you were being nice. 

“I’m sorry I stormed in here last night,” Bob said, straightening up and running one hand through his hair, combing out the knots. “I shouldn’t have done that.” 

“I’m the town doctor. Kind of my job, right?” 

He grinned, softly. “Guess you can add one more patient to your files.” 

“You’re due for a physical.” It came out automatically and you gasped audibly, slapping one hand over your mouth. Where the fuck had that come from? There was so much dirty intent behind the words it shocked you. 

Bob’s pink mouth rounded in an “O” before he let out a laugh. “That’s a first, Dr. James. Are you hitting on me?” 

You removed your hand. “Well that would just be downright unprofessional, wouldn’t it?” 

Bob shifted his weight from one leg to another. “What are you doing tonight?” 

You frowned. “Tonight?” 

“Is Bradshaw around? If the two of you have plans…” 

“He’s out of town on a trial,” you added, cutting him off. “For another few days.” 

“Come by the office, around seven,” Bob said, stepping toward the door. “I’ll bring wine.” 

“For what?” you called out as he made his way to the front door and swung it open. 

“It’s a surprise,” he replied before shutting the door behind him. 

***

For the first time since you stepped foot in Willow, you were nervous. As you raised your hand to the door of the office, you stopped. What were you doing? It was your practice, too. You had a key. 

Rolling your eyes to yourself, you slipped the key in the lock only to find it already unlocked. Gently, you eased open the door, the sound of your heel sending staccatos of echoes into the long hallway. 

“Hello?” 

“Back here.” Bob’s gravely voice came from the other end of the hallway but he was nowhere to be seen. You shut the door behind you and stepped inside. 

“What are you doing?” you asked. 

“Just come here.” There it was, that exasperated tone that he had so often used when you first met. A part of you grinned as he lapsed back into annoyance with you. 

You peered over the edge of the front desk where Molly usually sat and frowned. Bob sat on the ground surrounded by files. “You asked me here to do paperwork?” 

He held up a bottle of wine with one hand. “Yes, but we get to drink while we do it.” 

“Gimme.” Your hands reached out for the bottle, fingers wagging, and Bob reached up, pressing it into your hand, your fingertips overlapping for a second before you pulled away. 

Bob scooted back, giving you some room on the floor. He had on a pair of jeans and a flannel shirt, the sleeves rolled up toward his elbows, and he was wearing only a pair of thin socks instead of shoes. You tried to sit in your miniskirt and heels, but it was no use. You sighed, standing up and Bob frowned. “Where are you going?” 

“Hold your horses,” you said, stomping off to your office. A minute later, you returned in a pair of baggy scrubs, feet bare. Bob’s eyes sparkled. 

“Nice outfit change.” 

You rolled your eyes, folding yourself onto the floor next to him. “Alright, what are we doing?” 

“Molly, bless her heart, isn’t the best at administration work. So once a quarter, I come in and organize all the files.” 

“She’s the secretary,” you said. “What do you mean she’s not good at administration work?” 

He shrugged, moving a pile of papers to his left. “She just doesn’t do it how I like.” 

“So she’s not bad at admin, she just doesn’t do it exactly how you like.” 

“Correct.” 

“That’s the problem with you, Floyd,” you said, leaning back against the wooden cabinet. “You want people to fit perfectly into the little boxes that you’ve set out. Sometimes you can’t categorize things exactly how you want them. Sometimes people just are what they are.” 

“I’m particular.” 

“You’re annoying.” It slipped out before you could stop it. 

Bob looked up. And to your surprise, there was mirth in his eyes. He gave you a tilted grin. “And you think you’re perfect, Olive?” 

“Not perfect,” you replied. “But I’m not the grouch in this situation.” 

“Grouch?” 

“You’re grumpy,” you said, “and you know it.” 

“No one has ever called me that before.” 

“You’re kidding.” 

“I assure you, I’m not.” 

“Well, we were all thinking it,” you replied, leaning back against your palms, head tilted to one side. “You’re insanely grumpy for someone who isn’t eighty years old.” 

Bob laughed. “I think you’re the first person in a long time who has had the courage to say something like that to my face.” 

“People are scared to admit the truth,” you replied. “Now are you going to tell me about this absolutely insane organizational system, or am I just going to sit here and drink wine and watch you do all the work?” 

Bob grinned. “Hand me that stack.”

For the next two hours, Bob taught you how to categorize files according to his preference. Whereas Molly filed them according to the calendar year, Bob liked to group patient files all together and then chronologically within. 

By the time you were done, two bottles of wine sat nearly empty on Molly’s desk as you lay spread out on the ground, eyes closed, as Bob clapped his hands together. “Done.” 

You groaned, tossing one arm over your face. “Fucking finally.” 

“Is that a complaint, Dr. James?” 

You opened one eye. “You’re not the only one who can be grumpy.” 

“Would it make you feel better if I said I knew where Molly kept her candy stash?” 

Your eyes flew open and you sat up quickly. “Candy?” 

Bob pulled open a drawer that was full to the brim. Snickers and Reeses and Starbursts. Even a pack of Milano cookies. You reached in eagerly, pulling out a Nerds rope and tearing open the package. “I’m saved.” 

Bob chuckled, leaning back against the file cabinet, his legs outstretched in front of him. The two of you were facing each other directly, your back against the wooden desk. He took a bite out of a Twix bar. “So that’s the key to your heart? Candy?” 

“And Hermes.” 

Bob frowned. “What’s an Hermes?” 

You rolled your eyes. “A purse, Bob. The purse.” 

“How is a purse better than candy?” 

“It’s not just a purse, it’s a statement.” 

He shook his head. “Sometimes I don’t understand you.” 

“I don’t understand you at all either,” you replied. “One minute you hate me. The next minute you’re offering me wine on a dirty floor.” 

“I thought you were the one who hated me,” Bob said quietly. 

“Same here.”

He shook his head again, running his fingers through his hair to comb it back into place. “I never hated you, Olive. I just didn’t know you.” 

“And now that you know me?” you whispered. “What do you think?” 

“I think you’re amazing.” 

And despite the fact that you were drunk, and so was Bob, your head started to scream. Because your heart knew that he was telling the truth. The pink flush across his cheeks and the tips of his ears was a dead giveaway. 

“Amazing, huh?” you said quietly. “I’m going to hold you to that next time you get mad at me for something.” 

Bob rocked forward onto his knees, bending over toward the open desk drawer to your left. But just before his fingertips could land in the drawer, he pivoted, one hand coming to rest on the top of the desk above your head, his face only a few inches from yours. Your breath was heavy in your chest, his blue eyes glued to yours and before you knew it, Bob’s lips were on yours, his free hand wrapped around the back of your neck, tugging you in closer as your fingertips reached out, circling his wrist. 

He tasted sweet like chocolate, and so much more passionate than you had expected. 

Then, without warning, he pulled away, eyes wide. 

Your voice was raspy as you caught your breath. “Bob–”

He leaned back onto his feet, standing up. “I have to go.” 

Before you could even get to your feet, Bob had his shoes on, the empty bottles of wine scooped up in his arms. He turned back to you, blue eyes wild. “I’ll see you on Monday,” he said before hurrying down the hallway, swinging the door open and jogging down the steps. 

You leaned your arms against the wooden desk and pressed a finger to your lip, the heat of Bob’s kiss still warm on your skin.

Tag list or follow my library page @ereardonlibrary:

@eli2447 @xomrsalliej4787xo @xoxabs88xox @cool-ultra-nerd @shanimallina87 @teacupsandtopgun

@blue-aconite @bobfloydsbabe @wkndwlff @clancycucumber230@taytaylala12 @double-j @djs8891

@double-j @topguncultleader @momc95 @hangmandruigandmav @minamisulemisa @shawnsblue @seresinhangmanjake @brehonodea @babyminghao @crthurston @angelbabyangee @secretsicanthideanymorey

@mizzzpinkink @mygyn @sadpetalsstuff @averyhotchner @oneelleandaneye @rosewritesitout @atarmychick007

@wittywhispers @wildlyobserving @eyesthatroll @localhockeygirll @rosiahills22 @sexythollandd @djs88911 @rxmtoon @darkestbeforethedawn166 @cactajuiceice @purplevortexx @dempy @lemur46

@louie-bugug @arson-tmm @valkyrja-siren-blog @avengers-fixation @fudge13 @phantomxoxo @a-court-of-roscoe-and-babyy @not-two-shrimp @abaker7474 @evans-dejong @mandylove1000 @teacupsandtopgun @na-ta-sh-aa @xoxabs88xox @xomrsalliej4787xo @th3-oncoming-storm @3tabbiesandalab @spinning-away @fairyheart

[archivist-crow]

Dixie Chicks - Home (2002)

Twenty-two years ago today, on August 27, 2002, Home, the sixth studio album by Dixie Chicks, was released. While the band was on tour promoting the album, lead singer Nicole Maines made public comments critical of President George W. Bush’s role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. At the time, the album’s third single, “Travelin’ Soldier,” was number one on the country charts. When Maines’ comments hit the press, many country radio stations called for a boycott of the band (which is still in force) and sales of the single and subsequent singles plummeted. Despite this, the album would go on to be nominated for six Grammy awards, winning four, including Best Country Album, and sales of the album would eventually surpass six million copies. In addition, the group’s cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” became the group’s most successful crossover hit up to that point, peaking at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100. Noted for its acoustic bluegrass sound, Home has been named one of the best albums of the decade, country or otherwise, by many publications, with Allmusic declaring the album “an instant classic.”

[rabbitcruiser]

Forest (No. 84)

Dixie National Forest, CO (seven pics)

Zion Overlook, UT (three pics)