#So like should I really waste time and money going to the doctor for it?

[captain-daryn]

The moment when you have some sort of acute pain anywhere in your body, and then Dr Google says you’ve got cancer and have 3 seconds to live

[opens-up-4-nobody]

...

[penkura]

knowing [1/8]

Summary: Sanji knew you were the one the moment he met you.

Pairing: Sanji x Reader

Warnings: None really. Normal One Piece stuff I guess.

Note: I wrote this alongside part of 'last forever', and it made me like Sanji even more haha. I have two post story one-shots done with this in mind, but they can be read as stand alone works once I post them. Reader is two years older than Sanji.

Zoro had never, in the year and a half he'd known and traveled with you, seen you fall for the flirty comments from another man. He'd seen you flirt with some bartenders to get the two of you free meals or drinks when you were in some small towns in between your bounty targets when you both were tight on money. You never took it further than some flirty comments, most of it not even that flirtatious but just being kind. Apparently it was enough to get you free food, and that was really all that mattered.

At the moment though, it was very odd for him to see you being the one absolutely flustered over some flirting. After Luffy had rescued and recruited Zoro in Shells Town, you'd decided to stick with them and become a pirate yourself, following along through Orange Town and Syrup Village, where you'd just recruited Usopp and had Nami joining along as a tentative navigator. In your search for a cook and hearing that Mihawk was nearby thanks to Johnny and Yosaku's sudden arrival, you all ended up at the Baratie, Luffy being dragged in to become the chore boy for damaging the building and injuring the head chef. Eventually the four of you ended up inside, joking around with Luffy about how bad you felt for him.

Your and Nami's laughter was interrupted by the blond haired, blue eyed sous chef of the restaurant appearing before the two of you, thanking the gods or the ocean or whoever for bringing two lovely ladies into his presence that day. Nami basically brushed it off, but Zoro saw how, after she did so, this cook ended up honing in on you who already felt flustered, while he took and kissed the back of your hand, introducing himself as Sanji, giving you a smile. Your face was bright red and you barely were able to get your own name out, before Luffy luckily interrupted saying Sanji was going to be your cook, something he denied before the head chef, who you heard was named Zeff, told him he should go along with you all.

You hid your face behind your hands, shouting in your head about how nervous that interaction made you, you'd never felt like that before and were certain he did that to every girl he met, but you couldn't help it. He just did something to you and it made your feelings start to kick up like never before.

Zoro thought it was ridiculous for you to end up like that, but he also realized after all the time you had spent flirting to get things, it was the first time you'd been flirted with in the time he'd known you.

If Sanji really did join your crew, hopefully you'd get over being flirted with so easily.

+!+

The fights at the Baratie and Arlong Park were over. You'd finally freed Nami's hometown of Cocoyashi Village from Arlong's reign and more importantly released her from being under his thumb. When Luffy finally defeated the Fishman, you gave Nami the tightest hug you could while she cried, before her sister and Genzo, and several other villagers, joined in celebration.

Once you all had been treated for your injuries, the village put on a full celebratory party in thanks for your help with freeing them. Nami had disappeared at some point, but you knew she was fine. Luffy kept looking for meat and saying something about finding a doctor and a musician for the ship.

You, Zoro noticed, had taken to actually downing some drinks, he'd counted five in the time you sat near him. You'd never done that before, and seeing you sway in your seat started to make him nervous as you got a sixth drink and wasted no time in getting it down as well. He was about to take you back to the ship and drop you there to let you start sobering up or resting before Sanji came along and you gave a drunk smile, leaning into him.

"[Y/N]-chan, how much have you had to drink??"

"N-not much!" You hiccup a bit, thinking. "Three?"

"She's had six. She needs to be in bed." Zoro answered for you, which turned you into a giggly mess.

Sanji smiled a bit, putting your arm around his shoulders and one of his on your waist to keep you upright. "Can't hold your liquor then?"

"Hehe, guess not~" you dragged out your sentence while Sanji started walking you back to the Going Merry, talking with you along the way. There was no way you'd remember the conversation you had with him in the morning, but he at least gathered a bit of information about you from your drunk rambling.

He learned you were twenty-one, two years older than he was; the oldest of eight kids, you were proficient in the sword on top of being a ninja, telling Luffy you could be a reconnaissance member for the crew when you joined up. You'd never had a boyfriend which surprised Sanji considering he thought you were so pretty and kind. You had left home at sixteen to find yourself, your parents encouraging you to do as you pleased, and you hoped they wouldn't mind you becoming a pirate.

When he got you back to the women's bunks, you didn't want to let him go and convinced Sanji to at least lay down with you until you fell asleep, which he did, letting you wrap him in a hug that he gently returned. You were so weird to Sanji, he didn't know what to do or think sometimes. He was a natural flirt but with you, it felt odd to do so. Like he really wanted to know about you, not just flirt and compliment you day in and day out. You'd done something to him, but he thought that maybe he didn't mind it.

"Sanji~?"

"Mm-hm?" Sanji was nearly asleep himself when you said his name, pulling him back to the land of the waking. He thought you'd gone and fallen asleep because of how quiet you had gotten in the last few minutes.

"I think you're really pretty~"

"W-What. Hey, hold on…huh??" You had flustered him so badly that Sanji's face was red and he almost squeaked out his words. He didn't get another response from you, as you'd fallen fast asleep like nothing had even happened. Since he knew he wasn't getting anything more from you that night, Sanji quietly snuck out of your bed, leaving the room and closing the door, making sure you were still asleep, finally letting himself breathe with a slight smile on his face.

I've never had someone call me pretty before.

+!+

Sanji never brought up that you had told him you thought he was pretty that night. You still didn't know each other very well, so he thought it best to leave it be as a drunken declaration and let it go for the time being. Should anything change, he might bring it up, but not until then.

In the meantime, you and Nami had become almost like sisters, the two of you sharing stories and laughing, spending much of your free time together.

During your time at a place called Whiskey Peak, you all ended up being the escorts for one Princess Nefertari Vivi, your mission being to take her back to Alabasta in order to stop Warlord Crocodile and bring rain back to her country.

With her as a new temporary addition, Nami decided that the three of you would have a girl's night while she was with you. Nami locked the boys out of the room, bringing in a bottle of wine and some snacks that she convinced Sanji to make for you. Although she was pretty certain the boys, barring Zoro, were trying to listen in, you three were having a blast sharing stories and gossiping.

You were trying to be careful with how much you drank, slightly worried still that you may have said something weird to someone the last time you had too much, but at the moment, you were just tipsy enough that you felt OK and like you'd remember this in the morning.

"All right," Nami grinned a bit before taking a sip of her glass of wine, "Anyone got something else interesting to say?"

Vivi sighed a bit, a slight smile on her face, "My father has been trying to find a suitor for me. I keep telling him not to worry about it right now but…"

"Ooooh, he wants you married already?!"

"O-Only for the kingdom!"

You giggled a bit while Nami talked about how old fashioned and outdated arranged marriage was, before she looked over to you.

"Don't be laughing, miss 'he's so pretty I could die'!"

"Nami!" You seethed a bit, trying to make her keep it down, but it seemed like she had enough wine to keep her just loud enough. You prayed the boys weren't listening in while regretting ever telling her anything the last time the two of you had a girl's night.

"Oh? Who's so pretty you could die?" Vivi raised an eyebrow, though you didn't believe she'd be that interested in silly girl gossip, she was only sixteen, maybe this was the first time she had the chance to partake.

"No one."

"Liiiiiiaaaaarrrrr," Nami dragged the word out so far you'd swear it reached space, "She has a crush~"

"On who??"

"Nami!!"

The grin on her face told you she wasn't going to let up, it was probably the alcohol doing it, normally she'd stop if you asked. You grabbed the nearest pillow and were tempted to throw it, but instead hid your face as it turned bright red.

"[Y/N] likes Sanji! She's fallen head over heels for our flirty cook!"

"Oh! The blond one??" Vivi smiled at you, though you couldn't see it for the pillow your face was buried in, but you still nodded to confirm.

Nami patted you in the back, trying to calm you down before hugging you and babbling about how cute it was you were crushing on Sanji. She might have been younger than you, but sometimes Nami acted like she was even older than you were.

"I just…" You sighed, falling backwards on the bed with Nami still hugging you. She was close to passing out from the drinks she'd had, so you were likely going to be stuck sharing a bed with her that night. "I don't know. We barely know each other still, I don't think he likes me back…"

"You won't know unless you try, [Y/N]." Vivi joined in hugging you, trapping you between the two younger girls. It almost reminded you of your younger sisters at home, who would make you share the bed while they each hugged one side of you.

"I don't want to make things weird…"

"Then don't tell him, make him tell you." Nami nodded, yawning and snuggling closer to you.

Vivi agreed and did the same, having all the attention and warmth made you feel safe, and like you were ready to sleep as well. You smiled when you heard light snores from both girls, deciding Nami was right and you'd try to wait for Sanji to make the first move, if he ever felt the same as you.

"Thanks, girls. You're both wonderful."

+!+

The boys were indeed trying to listen the whole time. Luffy had his ear pressed against the door, while Usopp and Sanji were pushing each other out of the way to try and hear what you girls were saying.

Zoro didn't care at all, he was busy watching the log pose for Nami and making sure the sky stayed clear. Every now and then he'd hear you, Nami, and Vivi laugh loudly, but he didn't pay much mind to it.

At least, until he heard what Luffy said.

"They said someone has a crush on someone else!"

"What?! Who and who?!" Usopp started to blush a bit, knowing this was a private conversation but he still wanted to know!

"Hold ooonnnn, I can't hear them!" Luffy pressed his ear to the door even more, all he heard next was you saying you didn't think someone liked you back. "It's [Y/N] that likes someone!"

"Well, who is it?!" Sanji demanded to know who could ever take your attention so quickly! How dare they do that, unless it was him of course. Damn, he hoped it wasn't Zoro of all people.

Luffy shook his head, he didn't hear much of anything else apart from you thanking Vivi and Nami, then it was silent. "Man, I think they went to sleep. Darn, I wanted to hear who she liked~"

"Bet it's Zoro, they hang out a lot." Usopp nodded, making Luffy think then do the same.

Sanji didn't like hearing that one bit, it almost felt like a knife twisting his heart briefly. He gave a small glare to Zoro who just snapped back at him.

"What?"

"Nothing."

Bullshit it's nothing.

Zoro wasn't blind, he had seen how nervous you'd get around Sanji at times and how much the blond would go out of his way to learn about you, asking questions that didn't make sense to anything anyone had been talking about. You had even taken to helping in the kitchen when Sanji would let you, whether it was with preparing meals or washing dishes.

A few times Zoro had gone up to take his turn for night watch, and found the two of you leaned into each other asleep, your head on Sanji's shoulder and his head leaned on top of yours. The first time he woke you both up and got onto Sanji for falling asleep during his watch, the two boys ended up in a fight while you tried to apologize saying it was your fault for falling asleep first.

"It's not your fault that he didn't do his job!"

"Please don't blame yourself, [Y/N]-chan!! This moss head is just jealous we're friends!"

"I was friends with her first!!"

You tried really hard not to fall asleep the next few times, but when it did happen Sanji was sure to stay awake, just so Zoro didn't come after him. He couldn't have you getting into trouble now!

Zoro didn't bother to say anything to Sanji that night. He knew enough and had seen enough from how the two of you interacted to know there was something developing. He had no idea if it would be a good or bad thing, it could even be both in the end.

For now, he wouldn't interfere and would let you do as you pleased, you were your own person and older than he was too.

If this thing ended up screwing up your plans and goals though, he'd step in if you didn't mind.

+!+

The time you'd spent on Drum Island to cure Nami of her sudden sickness and recruit a doctor had flown by. Now having your friend back to full health and Chopper on board, you were all the way to Alabasta once again, specifically Nanohana to dock and stock up a bit before heading further into the country. Vivi had told you that you'd all need clothes to protect you from the sun and heat, as well as being able to restock the pantry and fridge while you were docked.

Once that had been settled, you were all chased down by the Marines, but rescued by Luffy's older brother Ace, who made it so you all could set sail and get away from them. He ended up joining you all due to some information he'd received for his own personal mission. Everyone gladly accepted him for the on foot portion of your journey, Luffy being the most excited and introducing him to each of you separately.

"[Y/N]! This is my big brother Ace!" With his signature grin, Luffy introduced you and Ace, even though you'd already spoken to him just a bit. It was sweet of him to do so!

"Luffy tells me you've got siblings too."

"Oh yeah! I'm the oldest of eight!"

Ace was shocked, his eyes widening a bit. "Eight?!"

"Oh," you placed your finger to your chin and thought a bit, "Actually it's nine now. Mom was pregnant when I left."

"Holy crap."

You just laughed, telling Ace about each of your siblings, five brothers and two sisters, you had hoped the newest was another girl. You told him a few stories you remembered, making him laugh. In return he told you a few stories about Luffy and their third brother, causing you to giggle at the antics they got up to.

Normally you'd hang by Zoro or Sanji to stay close to the group, but you felt drawn to Ace and stayed in the middle of the group with him, listening to the others discussing different things and Luffy whining about the heat.

You didn't notice how Sanji, who was walking closer to the back of the group, watched you as you talked with Ace. Every time you laughed or shoved on his arm in a joking manner, it made Sanji bite down on his cigarette a little more.

He wasn't sure why he felt so jealous, it's not like Ace was staying or you two were dating.

But still.

I don't like this feeling.

+!+

"You're going to make the cook have a fit you know."

Tilting your head slightly, you sat beside Zoro and wondered what he was walking about.

"Flirting with Ace like that, Sanji's going to lose it if you keep it up."

Your face went red and you looked shocked, making Zoro chuckle at you quietly. Had you not noticed?

"I-I'm not flirting with Ace! I'm just–"

"Laughing at everything he says. Flirting."

"He was telling me a funny story from when he and Luffy were kids! What was I supposed to do, not laugh?!"

Shrugging, Zoro looked over where Sanji was, seeing he had turned back to whatever he was making for dinner. Alabasta had been deathly hot during the day, but now that the sun was setting a chill was settling on. He hoped whatever Sanji made would be something warm. Whatever he was making, Ace offered to help and Sanji declined politely, though Zoro really believed he was trying hard not to snap at the fire user over a possible misunderstanding.

"Zoro…you…" You bit your lip while you watched Sanji and Ace interact, noticing that Sanji was trying not to make eye contact when he responded. "Do you think…Sanji…likes me?"

"I don't know. He seems to like any woman with a pulse."

"...right…"

The slight sadness in your voice actually made Zoro feel bad for what he said, despite it being the truth. He wasn't blind, he could see you had quickly developed feelings for Sanji in the last few weeks, but it was Sanji of course, he flirted with most any woman he came across. Zoro honestly thought you had been flirting with Ace, but he was also willing to admit he was wrong. Your reaction to his response about Sanji liking you told him that.

Honestly, it kind of pissed him off that of all the people in the world, you ended up with feelings for Sanji, the most flirtatious person he'd ever met. Zoro viewed you almost like an older sister and didn't want to see you get hurt, though he was fairly certain that Sanji would be loyal and wouldn't ever purposefully hurt a woman, but he didn't care to see you take that chance.

He'd probably skewer the poor chef if he broke your heart.

"He looks at you differently."

"Huh?" It'd been quiet long enough that you thought Zoro had fallen asleep despite not having dinner yet, but he surprised you when he spoke.

"His eyes. He looks at you differently than Nami or Vivi, or any other woman. I don't know." Zoro shrugged, placing his arms behind his head and opting to close his eyes while you thought over what he said.

Maybe one day you'd see this difference in Sanji's eyes.

+!+

"You want some help?" Ace smiled a bit while he spoke to Sanji, not the least bit surprised when the blond shook his head.

"No. I'm good."

Short answers with a slight bite to them, Ace wasn't sure if he'd done something or if Sanji just didn't like him. He had seemed distant whenever Ace tried to speak to him, giving more short answers but none had sounded like he was upset until just now. He was still nice but not like everyone else had been so far.

Ace watched Sanji for a bit, standing by him just in case he changed his mind. Instead, he saw how Sanji got distracted every little bit, his eyes wandering somewhere before darting back to the food he was making. The next time it happened, Ace followed his line of sight and smirked a bit seeing Sanji had looked over to you, who was sitting by a napping Zoro in a shady spot.

Ah I see.

There was his answer. Ace realized he had taken up a lot of your attention that day, and that he'd only really heard conversation from Sanji when he was talking to you, Vivi, or Nami, but now it all made sense. Maybe the blond was a bit jealous Ace had taken up so much of your time that day.

He crouched down by Sanji, setting a hand on his shoulder.

"Hey, don't worry, not gonna steal your girl."

After taking in a sharp breath and nearly choking to death on his cigarette, Sanji coughed a few times before looking at Ace in shock. "S-She's not–"

"She looks at you like she likes you a lot. I hope you guys get together someday."

Sanji didn't have a chance to respond before Luffy called Ace over to hang out with him, Usopp, and Chopper. If Ace had noticed how he felt about you, had anyone else?! He wasn't even sure if you actually felt that way or if Ace was messing with him. The fire user didn't seem like the kind of person to screw with others' emotions and feelings, but maybe you had said something that made him do so.

Either way, Sanji didn't fully know what to think, and he was glad you weren't switching night shifts with him that day.

+!+

Your time in Alabasta was coming to an end. You'd all helped to free the country from Crocodile's reign and it had actually poured down rain for nearly two days. The royal family was kind enough to let you all stay there until you were healed enough to leave, keeping the Marines at bay, Luffy still passed out in a bed of course. Your injuries felt minor compared to everyone else's; you, Nami, Chopper, and Usopp taking longer to rest and heal up than your stronger companions.

The palace library was a lovely place, filled with books on any subject you could imagine or ever want to learn about. Vivi helped you find some novels to read, saying you could absolutely take them with you when you all left and return them another time, she'd never tell they were missing. The rain kept you inside, relaxing at one of the large windows while you kept yourself in the novel's world, until someone placed a hand on your shoulder, making you jump a bit.

You turned quickly at the laugh and your face turned bright red seeing Sanji there.

"Did I scare you?"

"You did! Gosh," you smiled as he sat down beside you, "make some noise next time!"

"I will!" Watching you return to your book, Sanji smiled while you read. He was so beyond glad you hadn't been badly injured during the fights against the Baroque Works members. Some scratches here and there, a couple deeper wounds, but you didn't mind if they ended up scarring or not, at least you were alive.

One was a deep cut on the right side of your face, currently covered in a thick bandage. He hoped you wouldn't get a scar from it.

"Does your face still hurt?"

Shaking your head, you closed your book and set it aside. "Not anymore, thanks to Chopper. He said it shouldn't scar as long as I keep up taking care of it."

You'd still look pretty even with a scar.

Sanji didn't dare say that out loud, he still wasn't sure about your feelings for him, if Ace was right or not. But he couldn't help reaching out to your face, brushing his fingers over the bandage on your face lightly. You may have said it didn't hurt still, but he didn't want to cause you any pain.

"Sorry I wasn't there to help."

You shook your head, giving him a soft smile while you took his hand in your own. "Don't worry about it. I can hold my own, and I'm alive, aren't I?"

Nodding, Sanji knew you were right, you were stronger than you looked and made it out alive taking down several Baroque Works members on your own. You'd helped whittle their numbers down a bit while they fought the Alabasta army and the revolutionaries in the country.

He still couldn't help but be worried when you rejoined your crewmates and he saw how scratched up you were.

Wrapping an arm around your shoulders, Sanji pulled you a bit closer to him, telling you he was glad you were okay and gently kissing the top of your head. That was the bravest move either have you had done towards the other, and it made you blush bright red, glad your face was hiding in his shirt.

"Hey…Sanji?"

"Mm-hm?"

Biting your lip, you gripped his shirt a little tighter, hoping you weren't about to ruin your friendship, but what Zoro had said stuck in your head and you had to say something.

"I…think I have feelings for you…"

You could physically feel his breath hitch as he tightened his own grip on your shoulders before relaxing a bit, putting his other arm around you in a tight hug.

"I'm so glad to hear that, because I think I have feelings for you too."

You returned the hug, before laughing a bit. "Well, now what? Are we…together or…?"

Sanji wasn't sure himself, but he chose to nod slightly. He really hoped you wouldn't try to look at his face, he was bright red just like you were, but didn't want you to start giggling over it like he knew you would. He wouldn't mind much, but still.

This was the first time he'd made it this far with someone, made it to confessing mutual feelings.

Boy he was glad the feelings were mutual and were actually good feelings. Not at all like the shared animosity between him and Zoro, thankfully.

"I think we should keep this between you and me for now, yeah?"

You nodded in agreement, finally doing what he'd hoped you wouldn't and looking up at Sanji, your face as red as his with a smile on your face. "Just between you and me then."

You were both quiet for a while, before Sanji broke the silence and surprised you.

"May I…may I kiss you?"

His request surprised you so much that you blushed even worse, but gave a nod and soft "yes" in return. Sanji leaned in and kissed you briefly, and when he pulled back, you leaned back in yourself and kissed him back, just as briefly, before hiding your face in his shirt and making him laugh.

"Don't laugh at me."

"I'm not, I promise!"

You thought he really was, but you didn't care too much if so, it was fine honestly.

Only because it was Sanji.

[lani-heart]

|| series masterlist || next // previously ||

genre(s) -> angst, fluff, non-idol, hybrid au, poly au paring(s) -> choi san x reader x jung wooyoung warning(s) -> mention of abuse words -> 1.2K

abstract -> "...like you’re wanted. It's a sense of security that you have a home"

san's perspective

I’ve been under her care for about a month now… humans often were cruel creatures. She was a saint though. 

The way she cared for others over herself was obvious. The amount of people who come over to check up on her shows how many care for her. 

They were all cautious of me though… of what I did to her. She’s healed by now… luckily she didn't scar. I didn’t want to be reminded by a scar of what I’d done. 

She did prove to want to spoil me and Wooyoung. 

The black card in her hand would pay for everything… I've seen people have their card declined but she constantly picked things out without a worry. 

She is a trust fund kid… but she made money herself too. “San how about this?” she asked me and I shook my head. I didn’t want to show off my arms. 

“San you need some short-sleeved clothes,” she said as she put it back. “Ooh! y/n how about this!” Wooyoung yelled as I saw him pull out another piece of clothing for himself. “If you like it, put it in the cart,” she said happily. 

“y/n?” he asked, looking nervous. 

“Yes?” she said waiting for him to speak… he was fidgeting and not looking at her anymore. “Why haven’t you given us collars yet?” he asked and I groaned.

Collars weren’t something I wanted. 

“Hmm? Oh… well I guess we haven’t had that conversation” she said while looking at me. “We’ll do that at home okay?” she asked and he nodded. 

She wandered off while me and Wooyoung guarded her cart with the mountain of clothing. “Why do you want a collar so badly?” I asked and he sighed. “It's not necessary but… to hybrids, it's almost like you’re wanted. It's a sense of security that you have a home” he said

“Then why hasn't she gotten us one yet?” I asked now feeling agitated at the thought of not having one. “Well… collars are also seen as oppression. Some hybrids don’t like it because it could be offensive” he explained and I nodded. 

“Maybe she hasn’t caused your past? I heard her speaking to our doctor about triggers you have” he said and I knew that made the most sense. 

“I never really had a collar…” I said and he nodded. 

“You should also have some short-sleeved clothes…” he said and I sighed. “I’ll choose some but I doubt I'll use it,” I said and he chuckled. 

“Well it looks like she's looking for some,” he said as we saw her looking at short-sleeved clothes… “Miss?” I heard as I saw an employee get closer to her. “Do you need help looking?” they asked and she pondered before shrugging. 

“Sure,” she said. “Do you know your boyfriend’s size?” they asked and I felt my face heat up. “Huh?!” she let out clearly flustered. Wooyoung laughing at the situation… “Yah, when did you become her boyfriend ~” he teased and I growled. 

“No fair though… I wouldn’t mind being mistaken for her boyfriend” he said softly. The fox had a huge crush on her; it was painfully obvious. 

He was also a big pervert… always when she was out he’d go to her room and leave with her scent on him. I don’t want to know what he does there…

“I think i'm ready for the next store,” she said, quickly coming over to us with a pink hue across her cheeks. 

It was cute how flustered she became. 

“So much,” y/n said as we were now all on the floor lying down surrounded by bags. I don’t even think the floor was visible anymore. 

“y/nnie! We still need to go grocery shopping!!” Wooyoung said and we groaned. He was now the appointed chef since y/n burned lunch one day. He scolded her and kicked her out of the kitchen. Not like he lets me in there either though…

“Does that mean we order food today?” I asked and she chuckled. “What are you craving San?” she asked and I thought about it… “Anything with meat with it,” I said, and the two chuckled. 

I hate the time I wasted being too stubborn to let her in. I’ve never felt happier than by her side and playing around with Wooyoung. 

Everything was perfect. 

“Do you guys want collars?” she asked and I liked the way Wooyoung explained it. A feeling of being wanted… I wanted to be someone like that for her. 

“I do… when my owner died they sold my collar. I never got one again after” Wooyoung said and I sighed. 

“I still can't believe them. I tried visiting you… but they denied us all from visiting saying it was bad for a pregnant woman. Eventually, I just gave up trying to accommodate. I’m sorry Woo”  she said and I noticed he sat up. 

“I’m just glad you never forgot about me,” he said with a grin. “How about you, San?” she asked as she sat up. I looked at her and she always asked me questions with pure curiosity on her face. 

“I wouldn’t mind it,” I said. I think in fact I wanted to be wanted by her.

“Wait here! I have something to give you two!” she said as she stood up quickly and made her way out of the bags and toward her room. 

“What do you think she has?” Wooyoung asked and I shrugged. “I don’t know,” I said and he chuckled. “You really are becoming domesticated,” he muttered. “What is that supposed to mean?!” I asked confused and he laughed. 

“You’ve grown closer to her!” he said and I nodded. Before I could say anything I heard her footsteps. We saw her excitedly coming over to us with two bags. 

I didn’t recognize this brand… not like I recognized most but from the looks of it, Wooyoung didn’t either. 

“Before you open it, I got you the second day I went to buy stuff for San,” she said and I was confused. “I also got you one after San told me to adopt you both” she explained. to Wooyoung 

We took the tissue paper out of the bag to reveal a velvet box. Mine was black and Wooyoung’s beige. 

I opened it to reveal a collar… has she got me a collar ever since then?

It was pure black with black jewels around it. “Thank you!!” Wooyoung yelled as he hugged her. I was in shock… she got this on the second day of my being here.

I looked over to Wooyoung. y/n was helping him put it on. It was a beige collar with white jewels around it. “San?” she said as she looked at me nervously. 

I stood up and picked her up. I hugged her tightly…

“Your tail is wagging like crazy!” Wooyoung said and I don’t think I've ever felt this happy. “Do you like it?” she asked and I chuckled. 

“You’ve completed your promise,” I said and she pulled away to look at me shocked. I noticed her eyes turned glassy and she smiled happily at me.

“I hope you’re always happy with me,” she said as she hugged me tightly. 

“I know I will, if I’m with you” 

@wonuangel @danirael @angelsaway @krissroo @minkysmilk @mayonnaise-on-toast @robertsbbygirl @superbbananananana @hyukssunflower @kitty4hwa @justconniez @senpai-of-doom @kibs-and-bits @caityelise99 @ilovekinny @ateezennie23 @wooahaelemons @purplelady85 @watamotee33@chidess97 @littlelostdemonofthelight @maliamaiden @burntarm1n @spooo00oky @eastleighsblog @momo-peachy @kitstar1117 @quartzpirate @sunnyhokyu @iwishiwasrichasfuck @theginger543210 @pandolinka @ddaeing @kpopnightingale @slid3er @kekdo-520 @puppyminnnie @sparklinghwa222 @calicanbeevil @itsvxlentine @atinism @loumin908 @smally97 @rxnexxi @acetruepunk @majesticbeluga @namjooncrabs @tashizxy @itstheghostofmypast @smilefordongil @teeziny @totallynotlyntv @kyeos4ng @prodsh00ky @acescavern

please don't be a silent reader !! reblog, comment, and like <3

[solar-serpent]

🌈Based on your talents, what business should you launch?💰🪙

Hello! I hope everyone is doing great. I'm going through a phase where I started wondering if I wanted to go back to work for an employer, or even if it was worthy after I've acknowledged all my potential and the fact no one would ever pay for the real price of my work. Aquarium era is hitting me harder, and I bet you too are feeling this call to reach financial freedom. We deserve it.

I want to contribute with your awakening.

Please take a deep breath, focus on what's in front of you and pick the picture you feel more attracted to.

Pile I → Pile II

Pile III → Pile IV

🌱Pile I🌱

OMG, pile 1, you are so kind and empathetic that people want to open up to you and ask for your opinion/advice on topics such as recent breakups, petty fights with mom, best friend betrayal drama and so. Even though that's not the main purpose for them going into your store/business. If you weren't an entrepreneur, you could've been an excellent therapist since your serene demeanor and polite speech would make others believe they are speaking to a good friend. You show you care for what you are being told by providing meaningful replies, and I could swear people go crazy over your attentive gaze. Some of you are natural, others are really good actors (no one is to be judged here). Your patience and warm personality real or not sells, people could purchase anything from your business if you are the one assisting, which can be a boomer if you are aiming for leaving someone else in charge and doing the counts behind the scenes, knowing you are one of the best sellers.

You could own a coffee store given how good you are at building spaces where people will gather and feel safe. Not only that, you can create beautiful settings that will make others immerse in a new world like the tea room from a dollhouse or within a Monet painting. You will succeed at making them distance themselves from real world's problems, thus they could be more open to speak about something that feels so far away. To be honest, I don't think everyone that chose this pile would identify with this business idea. For some serving, cooking and simping chai latte over the daily gossips feels like a waste of their potential. You guys are right, another part of group which's artsy in nature is more aligned with fashion, beauty, and textiles. But I swear you all have the potential to manifest large amounts of money in one sale. I didn't have to crack my head open thinking about what type of business could allow that as designing is your strong suit. You are a master when it comes to making colors, fabrics. and whatnot march. A small part of this group loves sweets and how food can make others happy, therefore you could settle down for having a bakery and specializing on wedding cakes. However, some of you are contemplating the idea of running a drift or wedding dress store. For the ones willing to work with the brides, I assure your business will do well. You have the patience of a Greek hero going against the gods' will, so I see you nailing sales that took plenty of your time and energy.

I hope this reading was to your liking♡. I'm offering paid readings about this topic here. You can find more free content on my blog.

🌱Pile 2🌱

I didn't know "giving a fuck" was a talent until I drew your cards, dear pile 2. You are strong people, you don't care if others start hating you for doing your job. Like 5% of the people who picked this pile dreamed with being a hitman and go ahead guys, you'll do great. Now, a large percent of you have questionable morals, allowing you to work in fields where you can turn corrupted and earn wealth as a politician, lawyer, or even a doctor. I know those are career choices, but the real business for you is owning agencies, institutes, clinics, and funeral homes. I am not even making the latter up. Some of you won't care about the taboo-ish nature of your work. You approach business with level-headedness and practicality, thus if it pays wells as any other job related to humans needs... dealing with the deads is easier than their family but you will still do the job or you will hire someone to do it eventually. Curiously, you are great at making people feel better. You aren't that talkative, but you know how to make others laugh with your silly jokes, pulling weird faces, providing them with food or water and much needed space.

Some of you are radicals and into activism. You have plenty of pent-up anger and aggressiveness inside of you that you will directed at facing opposing forces. You might start a charitable cause and talk people into volunteering. Yeah, I know it won't give you money or not so much, but hear me out! You could own an institute for people with special needs or another for learning languages. There's a high chance you might end up working with foreigners, what gave you that business idea when you thought on how to help them improve their lifestyle. Some of you could be interested in farming or owning a supermarket. You would feel inclined to hire immigrants regardless of the consequences. Actually, what are consequences to you? You don't fucking care. You see people suffering, you help them. There's no other logic in your brain.

I hope this reading was to your liking♡. I'm offering paid readings about this topic here. You can find more free content on my blog.

🌱Pile 3🌱

Ok, guys, I love how unbothered you are when it comes to your line of work and what people have to say about it. Unlike pile 2, you are not interested in top positions that might lead to corruption, dirty money and living a very intense life. You are the complete opposite, you are humble and like to contribute to the community. You have a great intuition and observation skills, so upon checking your town or the place you want to install your business in, you will know what spot in the market needs to be filled right away. You can also tell what the community's needs are; you are not afraid of getting your hands dirty, so you could feel inclined to run a fish or convenience store. I feel like you want to belong, so not only your business won't cover a necessity, but also will turn into something traditional, even "iconic" for your neighbourhood. Is a music store still a thing? I feel like a small part of this group longs to have one.

You have all what it takes to manifest a long-lasting business. You are highly talented at nurturing and you might see your business like a "baby". It's not just your money source, but something to care about and fight for. Some of you might be interested in running an esoteric shop, where people is going to get their cards read or purchase herbs, incienses, candles, and so on. Mostly, this pile wants to have an unique business or for it to be the sole provider of something. E.g, you might own the only bookstore with coffee services at town. Also, I believe some of you will settle for moving out to a town or the countryside and start a business over there.

I hope this reading was to your liking♡. I'm offering paid readings about this topic here. You can find more free content on my blog.

🌱Pile 4🌱

Hello, guys! This pile is slightly different from the rest since I feel like going straight to the point and sparing unnecessary details, but I might annoy you as I'm not leaving nothing unsaid. You are known for being busy and most times you seem to be in a hurry. You are always working on something, even in high school your friends knew you were too invested on your studies and earning money than hanging out with people your age. You probably like technology and travelling, so you could own a business like a travel agency (in your country or another), transport or event planning company. In all honesty, you might end up running all three of them. The term "workaholic" does not make justice to what you are, but I will call you a genius. You were born to steal the spotlight by your innovative style at the moment of giving birth to your ideas into the real world. You can mix all your interests together and create a new business that will leave people gawking, like an app who allows users to match with vacation spots instead of people or something like that?

Some of you will rather work with tourists, renting cars, boats, and properties so their basic needs are covered. I don't know how many of you are sporty but you are adamant about turning one of your interests/hobbies in your business. You might run your own indoor rock climbing centre. If you were to ask me for specifications on what's your talent, I would say you are a natural when it comes to businesses and you hold such control over your emotions. You put your sole focus on work, nothing can distract you from achieving your goals. Not even your family, so I can see you making up to your dear ones with expensive gifts or generous check after you missed an important family event again.

I hope this reading was to your liking♡. I'm offering paid readings about this topic here. You can find more free content on my blog.

[kayas-kosmos]

Because of what's happening on Twitter...

I've made a little diagram to demonstrate why billionaires and the ultra-wealthy are bad for society.

(Text in Image)

"If we view society as a body, every sector is like a different organ within the body that serves a function and works in harmony with other organs to maintain balance. Every part of the body is important for the whole thing to function."

"The ultra-wealthy want you to believe they are the beating heart and thinking mind of the society – they are the innovators who create our jobs and their brilliance drives society forward. They deserve to be at the top of society because they have earned that. Without them, the body won’t function because they are the most important part."

"In reality, they are more like a malignant tumour, sucking all of the blood (resources) away from everything else (people and the planet) to fuel its own infinite growth, depriving the rest of the body and slowly killing it. Workers create all of the innovation and keep things running, the ultra-wealthy take all the credit."

------------------------------------------------------------------------

This is a public domain image so feel free to pinch it for whatever.

Elon Musk has put the careers of thousands of small business owners who depend on Twitter (myself included) in jeopardy by completely running it into the ground. Before this, Mark Zuckerberg had already been doing the same when he started pursuing Metaverse, making Instagram and Facebook much more unusable for artists. Do I really need to go into other examples of CEOs and very normalised practise of wage theft?

Meanwhile, the UK currently has the richest Prime Minister in its history. What is this man doing with this wealth? Continuing the Tory legacy of austerity in order to line his pockets and the pockets of his crony friends. This has resulted in a devastating cost of living crisis that continues to ravage the country as people's energy bills skyrocket out of control.

My diagram is pretty basic and lacks nuance, there's definitely more I could elaborate on with this comparison but I really don't have time. I just want people to get the basic point of how billionaires view themselves vs what function they actually serve. I'm also not here to debate whether some organs are more important than others since I'm not a doctor, that's not really the point here. And no, I don't care if people think I'm being harsh by comparing billionaires to a tumour. If they don't want to be compared to one they should stop acting like one. Jeff Bezos could end world hunger right now and chooses not to.

Also, I know a lot of people are going to come at me with the argument that billionaires give away massive amounts of money. First off, people like Jeff Bezos only give large sums of money to charity a.) for the sake of improving their public image and b.) because giving to charity allows them to write it off in their taxes. Also, charities in of themselves have a lot of problems, but that's a blog post for another day. Mutual Aid is a better way to help people directly. Really, the ultra wealthy need to be taxed, of course they do everything within their power to avoid taxes.

Also:

"Earning a lot of money" and "holding onto a lot of money" are two different things. You cannot be a multi-millionaire unless you hold onto that money. If you give away massive chunks of it to enrich society, you cease to be a billionaire.

Oh and this is worth a watch, too.

Furthermore:

Also before the inevitable great man comments:

Being a billionaire is a moral failing. Nobody needs that much money.

[Slight edit here - I made the assertion that a billionaire could not spend all of their money in their lifetime, but as someone in the comments pointed out it's very easy for them to completely waste billions in no time. Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have shown that].

Anyway, if you would like to see more anti-Capitalist art from me, I am currently working on a webcomic called "Flowerpunk" - a story about a group of anarchists who are trying to save the city of Wyrdon from a supernatural plague known as "the rot." The comic heavily discusses disaster Capitalism and how the rich will use mass death and destruction as an opportunity to further line their pockets.

I also like to do little anti-Capitalist doodles relating to this project, which I plan to make into posters at some point.

Please consider donating a Ko-Fi also if you would like to help support this project. I am really struggling at the moment because I've basically lost a massive chunk of my client base due to this Twitter implosion and also because of the AI BS that has made it impossible for me to get any reach nowadays. The last year or so has been an absolute nightmare for my career because of all of this.

Thank you all for your continued support! Hopefully I can re-establish my audience here on Tumblr and wherever else I decide to go.

[scrubbinn]

Mimic HRT: month 24 “Bottled”

cw: depression

“Good morning Jasmine, How are you doing today? You said you had something you felt like you needed to say in person? Are you still experiencing a build-up of stones in your throat again?”

“Y-yeah. I mean no. I mean. It's n-not about t-that. I already told Erian, but y-you’ve been so nice… I'm, really sorry… I'm switching my provider. To Dr. Therkin.”

“Oh. Well, it's sad to see you go, but you don't have to feel sorry about it. I've met with Dr. Therkin a few times recently, and she's been a delight. You'll be in good hands, and I'll make sure Erian sends your file over to her so there's no complications.” 

“You're not, m-mad?”

“Of course not. Even if you're not using this clinic, I still care about your journey to become what you've always needed to be. If you ever need help with anything, you can always reach out as a friend… Is there anything else you wanted to discuss?”

“Um, have you sent my file to a-anyone else? I mean like… anyone d-dangerous?”

“Of course we haven't? I wouldn't allow anything like that. Look, I know Erian has a sketchy past, but he is working to be better. Trust me on that. But, I won't try to stop you if you still feel worried about your safety here. I hope the best for your transition moving forward.”

“Oh, t-thank you. H-have a n-nice day. Thank you for everything y-you’ve done for me. Bye.”

“See you later, Jasmine. Oh! If you do spot Erian, could you tell him to see me?”

“Oh. S-sure!”

* * *

“Is this important, Mayday? You do realize how little time I have right now, correct? So what is so important that you have to waste it?!”

“...Doctor?”

“Sigh… Sorry. I've been rather stressed lately. It feels like I mostly end up dealing with conspiracies than patients, and with the collapse of, certain, benefactors. Money has been tight. I can't remember the last time I had a client who just wanted to be a cat, and no complications occurred. Maybe I could use a break. What do you need?”

“Jasmine switched to a different care provider. This makes four clients this month. What's going on, Erian? Should I be worried?”

“...I was hoping you wouldn't notice. I know you don't keep up with the news, but with everything that's been happening, well, I never had the best reputation, but it's become much worse as of late. I haven't had time to do anything about it as the clients that we still have tend to be the biggest headaches. You're not in danger of losing your job if that's what has you worried, and even if you did, I could still pull some strings to have you find work elsewhere. So I'd rather you didn't trouble yourself with this situation.”

“It's really that bad, huh? Feels like it's just been one thing after the other… Are you going to be safe?” 

“Don't worry about me. I'm still useful to Iris, and no one here would dare try crossing her. Now please. Let's stop worrying about this.”

“I did have something else I needed to talk about. Please don't hate me for this, but I went back to the void this morn- 

“YOU WHAT?!”

“JUST LISTEN!!... I've been feeling this empty sensation since I left. Like I forgot something. I did find something there when I got back home. I was holding a recorder. I think you should listen.”

* * *

“I see. Does anyone else know?”

“You're the first one I've shown this to. I didn't really know what to do. Well, I still don't. I wanted to hear your thoughts on it.”

“Well. I can't exactly keep you under observation. But this is a delicate situation. You should do your best to avoid any stressors. Ideally, I'd like you to stay here for a while until we know what you're capable of.”

“That's fair. I had plans to meet up with some friends, but I heard Alexis and Aria are already going through a lot. They probably don't need me popping in.”

“Mayday? Are you feeling well?”

“Oh, don't worry, I'm fine. It's just another thing on the pile for us. But hey, we're a team now! We'll get through it.”

“If you say so… What about that other Mimic that you found, Fang, was it? Will she be a problem as well?”

“It took me a while to track down her provider, but from what I can tell, she isn't like me. We're safe in the knowledge that I'm one of a kind.”

“Good, good. That's one less headache. I mean, it's tragic she's still missing, but. Well, you understand.”

“Yeah… yeah, I think I do. I'm going to make some calls, cancel plans, and all that. Once I grab my stuff from THEMS, I'll head back here. I'll be gone a few hours.”

“Be safe, Mayday.”

* * *

“Mayday? Where are you? Mayday, it's been two days… Where are you? Ms. Abigail has no idea where you are, THEMS never saw you come back. We're worried. Please… call someone. Please let me know if you're in danger… I just hope wherever you are, you get this message.”

* * *

“Mayday. What are we doing back here?”

“You said it yourself. The void is where I belong. Here I can't hurt anyone, I won't be a headache or a burden, or a bad friend… It's true and you know it. I'm not brave, I don't actually know how to help others, I'm just pretending. I'm not nice. It's just fake. I feel awful when people hate me, and I feel nothing when I'm praised. I'm just fake nice trying to avoid getting hurt.”

“You know that's not true. You're just stuck in this feeling of isolation. You're just digging the hole deeper because you don't know what else to do. Come on, work with me. I've been where you are.”

“The last person I should be taking advice from is a voice in my head. You should hate me. You've been trying to poke through, to get me to notice you were with me. And I ignored you. I said I'd try reaching out, going to therapy, and I didn't. Because I didn't want to deal with it.”

“Didn't want to and couldn't handle it, are two very different things. You've been going through a lot these past few months. Please, let's leave while we can. Before too long has passed.”

“Who would care? Look, to someone from outside, everything looks hunky dory. But you don't understand what it's like. My friends have more important things than some weirdo who inserted herself into their lives, Abi always tries to be nice, but that blinding tone she has sometimes. She doesn't like what I've always been. She stops me from talking about it in our off time. She doesn't want to think about it. She doesn't know me anymore. Now I might lose my job. Fang, the only possible thing that could understand what I'm going through is unable to ever be found. She found happiness by running away. What's so awful about me doing the same?!?!”

“Are you happy right now?”

“Go away. I want to be alone. I was meant to be alone.”

“...” 

Mimic HRT: month 25 “...”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Mimic HRT: month 26 “...”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Mimic HRT: month 29 “...”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Mimic HRT: month 41 “...”

“What are you doing?”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Mimic HRT: month 62 “...”

“Keeping track of how much time is passing.”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Mimic HRT: month 128 “...”

“Stop it.”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. /  /

. \  \

Mimic HRT: mo|  |nth 426

. \ \

. /  /

.

“I said stop it! Time doesn't matter here! If I wanted to go back the second I arrived, I could, but I'm staying.” 

“...And how many people have you hurt waiting this long?”

“If they cared, then they'd have been here by now. I'm an awful person. Just admit it. I only think about myself, I did this to them. I cut myself from their lives for selfish reasons. I'm a monster. A dangerous, self-destructive monster… Go away already.”

“I'm sorry for what I said in that recording. I was wrong, and I'm sorry I can't help you right now. I won't say anything else for now. I'll wait until you're ready to talk.”

“I might take a while to open up.”

“Take your time. I'm here for you…”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Start - Prev - Next

Mention list: @a-shramp, @calliecwrites, @be702, @respectfulevil, @hyacinthdoll1315

@aster-is-confused, @bloodandbrandywyne, @glitchgloop, @nyxthewary, @lunadook

@celestemysterios, @i-am-trans-gwender, @reliablegal, @bookmothic-dyke, @fluffytransfemkittykatwitch

[witheringwidgetwrites]

If I may do a request, how would the Brothers/Datables help out an MC who’s sick?

totally nonny' thanks for your request!! ♥️

This is based off of just general sickness, maybe food poisoning or a common cold, whichever.

tw for vomit? that should be it

LMK if yall wanna see the younger brothers!

LUCIFER

As soon as you start to grow on him, you come down with some sort of human sickness. Before now, he couldn't be bothered to help you himself, but when he finds you feverish, and your skin sticky, he's regretful that he can't stay longer.

50/50 chance of him having you rest in your own bed, or resting in his study on the couch so he can watch over you. Regardless of if he's having one of his brothers watch you, he definitely comes in to check on you every 1-2 hours.

Makes sure you're loaded with fluids, checks your temp every 6 hours, definitely finds medications for you, Tylenol, ibeauprofen, whatever he thinks is best.

As you grow even closer, he lets you rest in his room. you're more likely to go undisturbed, and his sheets are a mix of satin and silk, very comfortable. Ends up insisting on it so his brothers can't bother you.

Overall, 7.5/10. He is quick to help, but can't tend to you at all really. You don't have to ask him for anything either.

MAMMON

He takes you on your first initial date, and kisses you your bedroom goodnight. He's almost overly kind and romantic, his face flushed the entire time. You get food poisoning from the restaurant.

H finds out when he's burst into the bathroom and you're sitting on the floor next to the toliet, one hand pushing your hair back and the other on the toilet brim.

Even if you aren't super close, he'll hold your hair back. He's just more delicate if you're in a relationship. Also more scared and worried for you.

Gets quickly roped into a holistic therapy wellness pyramid scheme. He saunters in with a look that says, 'i am your savior, bow to me' and surprisingly it makes things worse because you have a slight allergic reaction. He feels awful.

Kind of panics at first, you'll have to explain that you're not dying. He brings up the prospect of seeing the TOP doctor of Devildom almost every hour. Diavolo wouldn't mind and you both know it.

Probably kicks back with you in your room, his hands shake a little when he tried to be forward and move your hair out of your face. Definitely is outright to ask what you need.

Overall, 5/10. Wastes money on the scheme but it's from a good place. You also have to ask him for what you need. But it can be a little annoying when you have snot hanging from your nose while he stares at you, and you have to specifically ask for a tissue.

LEVIATHAN

You had been fairly close friends for a couple months at this point, and it was obvious to everyone around you that he had the hots for you.

The one time he leaves his room, he comes to find you after you didn't answer his text, self deprecating thoughts loomed in the background and were quickly about to make him change his mind until he heard heavy breathing

"MC, you okay?" "Yeah sure, you can come in."

He found you sitting by the floor with a trashcan in front of you, leaning forward with both elbows propped up on the can.

During your sickness, he's got no qualms about asking Satan for help. He's quick to find medicine, wether it be from a nearby human novelty shop or from Lucifer, he's definitely averting his eyes while he hands it to you.

He offers to leave, but is elated when you ask him to stay with you. You see a small smile poke at his cheek. He sits next to you while you lay there, but turns his face away when you start to heave, and rubs your back out of instinct.

Overall, 6/10. He'll do almost anything you ask. But you have to ask. He will go out of his way to get you back to feeling better if he can though.

[prodbymaui]

Phantom Limb (Equidistant)

did we come close to having it all?

PAIRING: jeong jaehyun x you

GENRE: slice of life; the hows of us

TEASER WC: 848 words

SYNOPSIS: Between the distance of sorrys and goodbyes, where does 'us' lies?

RELEASE DATE: October 30, 2023

TAGLIST: open !! (you can send an ask or comment your usn)

AUTHOR'S NOTE: if you have questions, you can send an ask. and NO, I didn't re-write the whole movie and replaced Jaehyun's name. the teaser is just a teaser and the actual fic will have a lot more which will be different from the movie.

YOU WERE YOUNG.

''Hmm this is how it feels when you've finally bought something with your own money, huh, Jo?''

''Jo? Is that the name of your ex or side chick?''

''What.. No.'' Jaehyun chuckles. ''Jo in scottish means darling, sweetheart–.. beloved.''

''Pfft, fine. I like that. Jo..''

YOU DREAMED TOGETHER.

''When we're both finally stable and successful in life, wouldn't you be arrogant?''

''Arrogant? Why would I be?''

''Because your boyfriend is the world's most famous singer.''

His imaginations emit a hearty scoff from you. ''Then you're arrogant by then as well.''

''Uh-huh, and why is that?''

''Because your girlfriend, the president of your fansclub, is the doctor who found cures to cancers and rare diseases.''

''And I would be so proud of you when that happens.''

''Someday, love.''

''Someday, Jo.''

THERE WERE UPS.

''Happy birthday, the love of my life!''

''Thank you so much, baby! You didn't have to!''

''Uh-uh, I have to and I want to. You've been juggling studying and working at the same time and I know it has been hard. A great woman like my love only deserves the best of the bests.''

''You're such a sap. I love you, Jeong.''

''I love you, Jo. So much that it hurts.''

THERE WERE DOWNS.

''Jaehyun? Could you maybe wash the dishes before you go? I'm just really short of time.''

''I'm sorry, Jo, but I need to go. All the guys are there and you know how they go when practicing by themselves.''

''Oh.. I'll do the dishes. You take care, hmm?''

''Dude, are you tone-deaf? You're literally fucking out of tune.''

''What do you mean, bro? I think it sounds fine.''

''No, no, you're not fucking hitting the right note. You know what? Get out.''

''Jaehyun–''

''Get the fuck out of my house. What the fuck is happening to musicians nowadays? If they're not taking it seriously, they're fucking tone-deaf.''

''Love, maybe you should rest first.. ?''

YET YOUR LOVE WAS STRONGER.

''Girl, be honest with me. Are you still studying? Your life before used to be all about studying, studying, studying, and a sprinkle of Jaehyun. But now it's all Jaehyun, Jaehyun, Jaehyun.''

''Rosé, come on. You know we're still waiting for Jaehyun's biggest break. After that, I can focus back on studying.''

''And if that break doesn't happen?''

''Don't be so negative!''

STORMS AFTER STORMS.

''Hello? Do you know anyone named Jeong Jaehyun?''

''Hi, yes. That's my boyfriend. May I ask why you're calling from his phone?''

''You might wanna pick him up, he's dead drunk, been here since last night and won't leave. I'll just text the address from his number, I guess.''

''A-alright, I'm so sorry for the inconvenience–''

''Oh, and you might want to bring extra cash with you. His 7k bill is not yet paid, not even a penny.''

''Rosé–''

''Where the fuck are you? You can't miss this exam!''

''I-I'm coming, I just.. Jaehyun– fuck, he's–''

''Fuck him! Just leave him alone! A few minutes left and we're gonna start. This is a bar exam, get that shit inside your head! Get your ass here if you don't want all your efforts to go to waste.''

''Rosé..''

''Please, you don't deserve this. Think about all those nights you stayed up to study. I'm sure Jaehyun will understand..''

''I.. Okay– okay, I'm coming.''

''I love you, best friend. Jaehyun will understand, okay?''

You cradle Jaehyun's face in your hands, brushing his hair out of his face as if your own isn't a mess along with the tears running. Jaehyun looks through the hazy film of his eyes, he sobs with you.

''I'm sorry, love. I'm so so sorry– God– I'm sorry. Just this one time, please? Just this once, I need to take this exam. I'll call Eunwoo to pick you up.''

Giving one last kiss on your lover's forehead, you quickly catch a taxi and close the door on Jaehyun's face. You bury your face in your hands as you stifle your sobs. Maybe you can stop worrying. Eunwoo will pick him up, he's Jaehyun's best friend.

AND YOU WONDER..

But as you turn your head, Jaehyun with his clothes wrinkled lays on the cold ground, in his own pool of vomit. As he meets your eyes, he starts reaching out to you. For you.

You're just a lover. One that has so much love for Jeong Jaehyun.

The tires screech as you plead stop to the taxi driver, giving him the last of your money before running towards your boyfriend who's grunting and murmuring.

Your heart hurts at the worst state you've ever seen Jaehyun. The ache only gets unbearable as you take him in your arms and carry all his weight. Your heart.. it's as if being squeezed a thousand times, getting pricked with thorns.  

''Just leave him alone!'' Rosé's voice rings in your head.

''I'm sorry.. I can't.'' You whisper an apology. Not to anyone, no.

Because as you fix Jaehyun, clean Jaehyun, tuck him in bed– no one deserves an apology from you more than yourself.

IS IT ALL WORTH IT?

[sevensoulmates]

One thing that I really like about 911 and a handful of stories they've done over the years is the idea of it being okay to give up on a career/dream if it's not suiting you anymore. Or trying it out, finding out it's not for you, and then stopping.

I know a lot of people were mad that Hen didn't finish med school and go and become a doctor, but personally I liked that she listened to her heart and decided that being a first responder was better suited towards her, and I'm happy that Karen didn't get on her case or be like "but you wasted so much time and money and effort doing this!" I was so happy Karen let Hen feel what she felt and supported her decision to stay being a first responder instead of pushing her to continue going to be a doctor when that path might not have been as fulfilling to her even though she thought it was what she wanted.

The same things happens with the kid that Chim mentors where instead of being like hey you gotta push forward to be a firefighter, he says hey you have great instincts maybe they're best put to use at the dispatch center.

(this part is speculation based on some recent posts about Eddie and potential interim captain.) I would love to see Eddie temporarily take on the roll of interim captain for a short period of time. Not to show that he should be captain, but to show that there is value in wanting to stay being a part of the team rather than being pressured to pursue leadership. Most of the time, the way our culture is set up (fuck u capitalism) most media and propaganda wants people to do everything they can to reach the highest most important leadership role they can have. I would love to see Eddie try out being a leader (and being good at it cuz that's just how he is!) But then ultimately deciding that he prefers to be on equal ground with his teammates, following a good captain like Bobby or Hen, rather than being the one making the decisions.

Idk I just really appreciate that 911 doesn't ever push the story that you always have to be seeking bigger and better things career wise and instead promotes following what makes you happy and finding work that fulfils you personally rather than what is expected of you.

[dyns33]

Mistake part 2

I wanted to continue the lovely Shane x reader couple with communication problems because they needed it

When Y/N had said they would need help, she had been very serious. Shane had no doubt, he also wanted to do everything to save their marriage and he had promised to accept all her requests. However, he did not expect to find himself in the office of a marriage counselor.

"… It's a waste of time." he growled in the waiting room, his arms crossed and his eyes dark, showing that he didn't want to be here at all.

“Please, don’t start.”

"I'm just saying it's a waste of time and money. We don't need this."

“We clearly have communication problems, and she will help us.”

"We talked like adults and everything is fine now. We should be at the park with Judith or at a restaurant."

There were a lot more romantic moments and family outings since their divorce proceedings were dropped. Shane really tried hard, taking time away from his work to be with his family more often than not.

But it wasn't enough. Not for Y/N.

Something had changed. The trust wasn't completely broken, but it had taken a hit, and despite all her husband's promises and excuses, she couldn't look at him like she used to.

They slept in the same bed, but they didn't touch each other. Shane hadn’t tried, and Y/N wasn’t sure she wanted to at the moment.

It's been over a month. It wasn't normal, it wasn't sustainable, but every time she tried to talk about it, Shane didn't seem to understand, assuming everything was fine. So she insisted that they go see a marriage counselor.

Doctor Noore seemed nice. Smiling, patient. She greeted the couple enthusiastically, inviting them to sit in front of her, and not losing her smile when she heard Shane groan.

"You don't seem happy to be here, Mr. Walsh. Why ?"

“Not my idea.”

"Why are you here ?"

“My wife thinks it’s necessary.”

“And she’s wrong ?” Dr. Noore asked, taking notes.

"No ! Shit, I didn't say that. Don't start doing things to me that I didn't say ! We had problems, because of me. We talked about it and we're working on it. I Don't think you'll help, but I can try if it pleases her."

"Hmm. Mrs. Walsh, why are you here ?"

"Shane and I… We have problems communicating. And trusting each other."

“I have complete trust in you.” her husband muttered quickly without looking at her, perhaps a little too quickly, because Doctor Noore observed him before taking further notes.

The first session was a little chaotic, but according to the specialist, it was normal. They were getting to know each other. Couples always had trouble opening up at first, and she was there to put them at ease.

At the end of the hour, she gave them an exercise to do at home, asking them to give her the results when they came back to see her.

“If we come back.”

"Of course, Mr. Walsh. So, I want you to compliment each other at least once a day. Any compliment, if you notice that your partner deserves or needs to hear something positive, do it."

Shane declared the exercise stupid. He said it in front of the doctor, he said it again in the car, and he said it again when Y/N tried to thank him for taking the time to bathe Judith and put her to bed while she did the dishes.

"No. You don't do that."

"Shane, why ? I'm really grateful that you…"

"That I what ? That I do things that all husbands should do ? There's nothing to say about that, I take care of our daughter, I help you around the house, nothing out of the ordinary."

"You work hard…"

“You work hard too, baby.” he sighed, looking terribly tired. "You do lots of things for us without complaining or expecting thanks. Let's go to bed now."

For the rest of the week, Y/N tried over and over again to compliment her husband whenever he did something good, and every time, he lashed out and left the room in a huff. The exercise was not really a success.

Doctor Noore did not seem surprised. She noticed something while listening to Y/N talk about their meeting and looking at Shane who was staring at the window, as if he wanted to be somewhere else.

They didn't talk about the cheating. It was a topic Y/N didn’t want to talk about.

To her, that wasn't the reason they were here. It was a consequence of the reasons for their presence here, this lack of communication, of patience, of trust. It happened after an argument, and it led to another argument. They had to learn to talk to each other.

"Mr. Walsh, would you say that you have always been an impulsive person ?"

"Yeah. Rick says I'm a brainless moron. My parents said that, my teachers said that. Hey, but if I thought before I acted, I would never have gone to Y/N and asked her to take a drink with me. I would have seen that she was so good and I would have walked away like a coward."

“You think your wife is too good for you ?”

"You don't ?" Shane growled, returning to a defensive position, his back buried in the gray sofa, arms crossed and without taking his eyes off the doctor.

The new exercise given by the doctor pleased Shane even less.

According to her, it was necessary for everyone to take some time for themselves, doing things without each other. This did not mean that they should no longer see each other, it might disturb Judith, but they had to distance themselves, particularly on a physical level.

The doctor explained that this would allow them to develop their communication, rather than going through actions, because both were important in a couple.

Y/N didn't dare tell Doctor Noore that they hardly touched each other since their reconciliation. The distance was already there. Shane would sometimes try to kiss her, with some hesitation, ending up aiming for her forehead or cheek rather than her mouth. She couldn't remember the last time they held hands or hugged.

Obviously, since he had been 'forbidden' to approach his wife, Shane immediately wanted to do the opposite. He had always had difficulty accepting authority and following orders.

“Shane, no.”

“I’m no longer allowed to kiss you before I leave for work, where I might get shot and never come back ?”

“It’s not funny, don’t say that.” Y/N sighed, but without approaching him.

"I'm not kidding. If you want me to sleep on the couch, say so. It'll be better to follow the good doctor's advice. But it's not just that, right ? You hate me. I disgust you. You regret letting me come back. I can leave if you ask me."

Fortunately Judith was already at school. But maybe Shane allowed himself to talk so much precisely because he knew that their daughter wouldn't hear him, and that she wouldn't suffer yet to see her parents arguing.

For her part, Y/N seemed desperate at what he was saying. By what he thought. Her hand moved, almost touching his cheek, but his wife stopped at the last moment.

"We have to try. I don't want to lose you, I'm doing this for us."

"I don't see how that helps us. I love you, dammit ! I'm an asshole who doesn't deserve to be with you. I didn't already deserve it before I fucked up like I did, and yet you married me, you gave me a beautiful child, and I ruined everything. Everyone knows it, the doctor knows it, and now… I can't even touch you."

"Shane. You're only doing this because she said not to. We haven't touched each other in weeks."

“I’m dying to touch you, baby.” he whispered, looking down. "But I have no right after what I did… I expected you would… I hoped… No, it's not your fault. You have the right to hate me. I'm the problem. I'm sorry, so sorry, honey."

"My love… I know. I know, and despite everything I have forgiven you. I love you. Come here."

They did not go to work that day, not leaving the bedroom. The only time apart was when Shane called Y/N's work to say she was sick, then when he called Rick to ask if he could watch Judith tonight, not caring what their boss would say regarding his absence.

Doctor Noore greeted them with a mischievous little smile during their next session, her eyes landing lightly on their necks, covered in marks.

“Did the exercise go well ?”

"Nah. We didn't follow it and we talked a lot, no thanks to you."

“If you say so, Mr. Walsh.” she said while continuing to smile, proving to Y/N that she had always known what her ban would cause. "It's a good thing if you have managed to communicate. We can space out the sessions if you wish to continue seeing me."

"No need."

"It will be perfect." Y/N replied, taking her husband's hand, who growled a little but didn't retaliate.

"I'm happy for you anyway. You're a lovely couple who clearly had a lot of affection for each other."

The sentence seemed to relax Shane. He had cried a lot, when he wasn't busy kissing his wife, apologizing again and thanking her for giving him a second chance when he didn't think he deserved it.

Since their conversation, things had returned to normal. Judith had noticed it too, happy to see her parents smile and taking her to lots of wonderful places whenever they had the chance.

Of course, everything wouldn't be perfect forever. Shane recognized that he had a lot of work to do, about learning how to say what he felt without yelling or being ashamed, and to listen to what others said to him without feeling attacked or judged.

However, he had made the decision to never drink again when he was in a bad mood or alone. Just a few beers, during parties, and only if someone offered him. He would never do stupid things while drunk again.

"I give you permission to cut off my balls if ever… You know. I can write it down, it will be proof in front of a jury."

“You’re still not funny.”

"I'm hilarious, that's how I seduced you the first time. I'm still amazed that you accepted my date at a crummy fast food joint on the side of a road."

“We were young, and I wasn’t there for the food.”

“What for then ? You could have found a lot better.”

“I’m very happy with what I have.” she whispered, kissing his cheek.

"Mommy ! Daddy ! I finished my ice cream, I want to go swimming !"

Forgetting what they were talking about, Shane stood up to take their daughter in his arms, reminding her that she had to wait to go swimming after she ate, tickling her and making her fly through the air, while Y/N resumed reading her book near the tent they occupied during their weekend at the lake as they had to do for months.

And everything wouldn't always be perfect, but it totally was in that moment.

[halimpark7]

When you ask people about me,

from any section of my life,

wherever I've lived. I've lived in a lot of places.

The first thing they say about me is,

"Oh HaLim? The Asian girl? .... She's crazy." And a brush off.

I used to think. When I looked at my photos growing up, if I could hate myself more than other people, more than my haters, more than my parents, that no one could ever hurt me.

It was true. They couldn't hurt me. But I didn't like myself either.

I was always doing things, fun things, ridiculous things, mean things, sexual things. And I could never understand how I was feeling. I just kept trying to move forward while I was so stuck. I was crazy. I still am in ways.

I think I'm grateful to be poor right now. Call me, "crazy".

Even though it sucks when my vanmate yells about how I waste money.

[I took the wrong turn and we have to drive an extra 4 streets, I bought the wrong item at the grocery store so I have to go back into the store and return it and then buy the right one, I made a product wrong and have to remake it bc I have to do something as wrong as I like to be wrong, I have to fight with the entire grocery store because no one and I mean no one is going to bully me in my mid 30s.]

Being poor means people have the "right" to judge you, be mean to you, think you're stupid, steal from you because they have more resources to carry out your ideas.

Being poor means you have to be precise. All the cards are stacked against you. People like lording money over you. Playing keep away with things that would have been easily given to you, if you were rich. It's an uphill battle for human decency. "Poor you, guess you should have done things differently..." "You poor thing" with their eyes dancing.

Being poor teaches you tough lessons. I wouldn't glorify it. If you're not poor, you might have been in a previous life.

But for me, when I was comfortable, taken care of. I was too depressed to move. I was with someone who wasn't right for me but I ate, slept inside. I couldn't do anything but lay in the living room, take off my clothes, and watch Netflix.

It is much easier to be ok in the Midwest than it is in metropolitan areas. It is also easier with a good family (the ones that come with money), and it's easier with a sought after degree. (The tough ones that come with money).

I couldn't force myself through any of my degrees. Not to be depressing, but I was beaten up by dad, narcissisticly taken out of everything I was good at by my cognitively impaired mother. Who even followed me to college because she likes the feeling of stealing from me. She squeezed me till I was a stone in her womb and then she massaged me back to life. She hasn't stopped squeezing me since.

Miserable people, like to slowly kill things. In case you didn't know that.

Im not complaining, everyone's life is hard. I just didn't know there was a timeline, like a race, to do something by a certain time. Bing! your motivation to want to be a doctor dried up here. Bing! your motivation to fulfill any of your career options ended here. Ding, ding, ding. Who are you really? How do you want to make money?

And I feel like Moses going round and round, circling all things I'm good at, compelled to do, and how do I spin it to make money without being a monster/without selling my soul.

Send me money. cashap-halimpark7 venmo HaLim-Park PayPal hapark7 ❤️ my dog threw up tuna on my car seat and it's starting to make us sick. 🤢🤮

Life is one shit show until it isn't, right Mike?

[goodluckclove]

Talking to My Younger Self

Hey man, I saw those photos you posted on Instagram where you climbed up an overpass and through a hole in the fence to take pictures on the side of the highway?

Yeah bud, I don't think it's an issue of that being cool or not cool as much as. Like. Why? Safety aside, did you even enjoy it? Because the photo just makes you look tired and bored.

Oh you didn't smile on purpose. You're "too constantly distressed to smile"? You seeing your therapist soon? You should tell him that.

Your smile is fine, by the way. It's nice! Maybe you don't like it because it makes you look to happy and you consider that vulnerable. I don't know, man, it's a thought. You wanna see a picture of my cat?

You think you need to repress any attraction you have to non-binary people because you're ashamed of "being drawn to them as a gender they don't identify as"? Yeah, I mean, that's certainly a worry based in consideration. Have you thought about if there's - like - another reason behind that, though?

I just mean - you remember when you told me how wearing a binder and a makeshift packer "makes you feel like more of a woman"? Oh no, I'm sure that might be true for some people. But it might not be entirely true for - okay yeah we can change the subject. Sure, send me the new draft of your script. I'll read it tonight.

No, you had the right thought not doing that for your friend. I mean yeah, money is money. But accepting money in this particular case is absolutely a felony. So it's good you said no. Nice one, bud.

Oh yeah I got the picture of your new mini-fridge. It looks nice! I like the mural you painted on the door. You said you stocked it with food so you wouldn't have to get hungry when you're too scared to leave your bedroom? You said that really casually. Are you doing okay?

A four hour commute one way to get to a job is insane, Miranda. No, dude, that's entirely unreasonable. That's goofus shit. Don't do that.

Yeah I don't think using a newspaper you found at the bus station to roll a joint is cool. I think smoking ink fumes is probably really bad, actually. I also doubt you know how to roll a joint. Just a thought.

You got SALVIA? Who the fuck gave you SALVIA? I'm going to lose my mind you're fucking kidding me. Yeah, dude - it's legal, but you're on like six different meds you should not be recreationally doing a drug that makes people freak out and walk into traffic on the regular.

Your mom says it's fine and cool? That's - fucking hell. That's a crazy thing for a mom to say.

What? Your mom also says you only have to take your pet to the vet when they're sick? That's probably because she can't afford regular pet checkups but still wants to keep adopting dogs to neglect. Nope - too harsh on my part, ignore me. Uh, you have a job now, so maybe look into pet insurance. You should get your cat a checkup.

You're fucking kidding me. I'm sorry, uh - why do you think a doctor would get mad at you for going to get yourself a checkup? I get your mom said they'd claim you were "wasting their time", but explore this with me. They're doctors, dude. If they get mad at you asking them to do doctor-things during their designated doctor-ing time that is probably a person that shouldn't be a doctor.

Also have you told your therapist this? Or your dad - or even your grandma? It might actually be a good idea to start fact checking this shit because sometimes people are wrong and at this point I do think your mom has actual brain damage. I mean between the ECT and the eating disorder and the pretty rabid history of substance abuse - you're right. We'll change the subject. I'm sorry. Cat video.

Riley says hi. I saw a bird on my walk today he seemed kind. You're working really hard, maybe you should take a break.

I think you're pretty cool, actually. You're smarter and nicer than I think you think you are. I do think you're entirely too trusting and that seems to get you in a lot of trouble but - I don't know. It might not be the worst thing in the world. It's a bit of a relief that you never were entirely cynical. Opening on good faith isn't always - hey, bud?

Pal? You're doing a felony again.

No, it's not legal. Your friend was either wrong or she's lying to you. No, this is actually a worse felony than the felony you avoided doing before. You should stop immediately.

That friend of yours is absolutely like a legit criminal by the way and you should probably stop hanging out with her.

[thatmexisaurusrex]

i wanna hear more about the pi/art thief au!! 💞✨

wip game

Oooh, so this one has been a long time coming. I've had a draft of this for literal years and I know people keep asking about it, but I actually pulled it out to edit and work on it for a request by @ninesdb for a charity thing. It's going to come out soon after some beta work is done on it. But yeah, it's what it says on the tin - Private Investigator Sam Wilson who deals mostly with art theft finds himself on a case where he's in search of the infamous art thief the White Wolf. Here's a little snippet from the fic:

“Didn’t plan for this winter, huh?” asked Sam, because Sam was slowly transforming into his mother, just talking to random people in line.

The man turned, and there was something gripping about his eyes. Not just because they were a color that stood out, this color that reminded Sam of the ice grotto in Mer de Glace when Riley had convinced him that Chamonix, France was worth a visit when they decided to go on vacation across Europe.

Before.

Well.

His death.

What stood out was the sheer surprise, like no one ever talked to him before. Or maybe he was just shy. It would be Sam’s luck to try to chat up the shyest guy in the line, like some strange worse sequel to Flight of the Concord’s ‘The Most Beautiful Girl in the Room’.

The Most Shyest Guy in the Line.

“Um. What?” asked the guy, his voice… god, why was his voice like smooth whiskey?

There was an intense disconnect with his height, his voice, his entire look and his personality and none of this should be working for Sam.

And it was ridiculous.

Sam was a mess right now.

He wasn’t in a headspace to even think about someone else.

Stop that, Sam.

Work on yourself before jumping the first cute person you see in a line.

“You’re shivering. You definitely didn’t dress properly for the weather,” said Sam, because his brain and his mouth weren’t collaborating anymore, “New to town or tourist?”

The man shrugged stiff from the cold, a small smile on his face as he looked away, and oh, wait, no, maybe the shrug wasn’t stiff, it was the left arm, the man doing his best to hide it. And Sam knew the signs of someone worried about people being uncomfortable about a missing limb.

An intense amputation, from what Sam could tell, since doctors usually tried to save legs and arms below elbows and knees to give a person the best quality of life possible yet it looked like it was probably the entire shoulder down.

Sam would tell him it was okay. He knew people with missing limbs. One wouldn’t make Sam uncomfortable.

But.

Bringing attention to it might scare him off. Would probably be rude. Sam decided to only bring it up if the man brought it up first.

“I don’t know. I suppose I’m visiting for a bit,” said the man, hand shoved farther into his leather jacket, “I’m a grad student. Art history. I was actually here to study the Wakanda exhibit that the British Museum loaned to the National Gallery. I sort of specialize in jewelry, clothing, and weavings, so I was hoping to see the Damisa-Sarki Habit.”

Sam frowned, trying to remember if he saw that in the exhibit (Sam didn’t remember seeing anything marked “Damisa-Sarki Habit”), though, it wasn’t as if he saw the entire exhibit, and Sam knew the only thing that was stolen (since the White Wolf generally only took one specific item every time) was the Panther Necklace. Sam knew he probably shouldn’t say anything, but didn’t want the guy to waste his money on a ticket.

“The entire Wakandan exhibit is closed right now, actually. You’d find this out if you walk in anyways, but, um… there was an incident last night and they had to shut down the entire area.”

“Really?” said the man, blinking, “I guess I rode all the way from Brooklyn for nothing.”

“Rode?” echoed Sam, like an extremely smart person.

The guy smiled a bit bigger, letting out a little laugh, making eye contact with those goddamn intense eyes as he said, “I own a motorcycle.”

No, Sam.

You do not find him driving a motorcycle attractive.

That attractive.

Fuck.

Wait.

“Why weren’t you ready for winter if you’re from New York?” asked Sam, confused.

The man shrugged.

“I’m not usually in New York,” explained the man, “I go to grad school elsewhere. But I was visiting someone and they’re taking care of my motorcycle at the moment. I sort of decided to come here impromptu this morning since the person I was visiting was busy today.”

Sam tried not to show his disappointment. Because of course he was visiting someone. Had someone, probably. Some girlfriend or boyfriend or someone. Someone he trusted enough to do upkeep on his motorcycle. And Sam and this man had just met, like, five seconds ago. It made no sense for Sam to feel this heartbroken.

“Sorry you wasted your time,” said Sam, genuinely apologetic.

That was over a three-hour drive by car.

“I think the exhibit’s going to be here for another few months,” continued Sam, “So, maybe you can catch it another day?”

“Yeah. I could do that. And I don’t think I wasted my time,” said the man, much more suave than he started out, “I got to meet you, after all. I’m Bucky, by the way.”

“Sam,” said Sam, a little too quick, probably because Sam was definitely too much of a mess to be doing something like this, “Sam. I’m Sam. Nice to meet you, Bucky. It’s Bucky, right? I think I’ve only heard of one other Bucky before.”

There was something warm about Bucky’s eyes as he stepped towards the barista, saying, “Nice to meet you, too. What about I buy you your coffee?”

[abubblingcandle]

Augusnippets Day 1 - Brainwashing - Ted Lasso

CW - Past Child Abuse, Emotional Manipulation

Jamie was loving this whole therapy thing. Time to just talk about himself ... amazing! Until Dr Fieldstone starts asking questions about his childhood.

Here on AO3 @augusnippets

When Jamie started therapy with Doctor Fieldstone, he hadn’t thought twice about it really. Keeley seemed to think it was a good idea and he just got to sit there and talk about himself. Doctor Fieldstone just nodded, smiled and wrote stuff down. It was relaxing really. He should have started doing this sooner.

But then the bubble burst. Because turns out therapy isn’t just paying people to let you talk at them. You are expected to talk about certain stuff that you don’t want to talk about because you need to do that to get better. Which Jamie still thinks is a massive pile of horse shit. Jamie fucking Tartt does not need to talk to someone to get better. He’s already the best.

Despite that Doctor Fieldstone was determined to talk about his dad.

She had found out about the rules somewhere in Jamie's ramblings. That made it sound worse than it was. Jamie wasn't trying to hide his dad's rules from her, he genuinely thought she wouldn't care. But she did care, cared about it quite a lot really and they spent the whole session talking about them which was odd because every parent had rules for their kid. And they were just good things to keep in mind while he was still playing. They made him good. So yeah ... Jamie didn't know why Sharon was determined to talk about them but she got him to make a list and now the list was taunting him as he read it out to her. 

1 - Take any opportunity to show your talent.

"It's simple son. This game is all about being noticed. If you sit back, let others take the glory then you'll get dropped. You'll be forgotten. You'll be worthless. You don't want to end up like that. Football's all you've got going for you. Don't give them the opportunity to forget you."

2 - Only spend time around people who can make you better or make you look better 

"Friends? With that prat ... Jamie. Jamie I expect better. Both from you and for you. Friendship is a waste. They'll work out who you really are, what you really are and then either try and use you or throw you away. We don't want that do we? Friendship is only worth it if it benefits you. Does this friend ... Jacob? Does being friends with Jacob being anything to your career? ... No. Then you won't see him again."

3 - Your money is money for the family

"You don't get to say no Jamie. I need this which means we need this. You wouldn't want your family to go without would you Jamie? Do you know how much money I spent keeping you alive brat? Huh? Speak up. Yeah, a lot more than your little toys. I kept you in football which is why you are getting paid. It's time you repaid the favour."

4 - Any available time must be spent improving

"What are you doing? Fucking video games. Who said you could play games Jamie? No, get up. If you've got time to play games you've got time to train. I don't care that it's raining, you'll have to play games in the rain won't you? So stop sulking and run."

5 - Tartt men are not soft. Emotions are a choice and a waste of time. 

"Get up. James I told you to get up. Stop that noise and get a grip. Being a soft fucking wuss. So what it hurts huh? You wanna see your fucking mummy? You're a Tartt. We ain't fucking soft, we don't fucking cry. You are in control of your own emotions. If you show people you are weak then they won't trust you yeah. They won't like you. I don't even fucking like you right now as your fucking weeping and I'm your dad. Get yourself together or you're walking home."

6 - Playing through the pain makes you stronger 

"You ain't earnt any drugs lad stop sulking. You can walk can't ya? Then you're fine. When I were a lad we didn't get tablets for nothing. It toughens you up. You play through the pain you hear me then if someone takes you down in a game you'll get back up to make them regret it. See? It's for your own good. Now up we get."

7 - Stop hunting for praise

"Nobody in life kid is going to throw you a fucking party for doing your job. If you're waiting for someone to give you a well done for trying medal then you'll be waiting an age. Scored a goal, so what. Should've scored two. The only time you deserve a pat on the back is when you have a real winners medal that you've earnt right. So stop asking if you've done good, the answer should always be do better."

8 - Losses are your responsibility and need to be apologised for

"You're the best player out there junior. You know that. Everyone knows that, if they don't they're fucking dense. So if your team loses huh, that's on you. You fucking lost and that makes you are fucking loser. No Tartt is a fucking loser on my watch. Apologise. Say you're sorry for being a fucking loser Jamie."

9 - You see a goal scoring opportunity, you take it

"You think those other lads out there are thinking about you when they get a chance to shoot. No one on that team gives a flying fuck about you Jamie. Only I care about your success here and you need to start caring too. If I see you pass when you could shoot again Jamie you'll regret it alright. You'll regret it." 

10 - Instructions from me are not optional

"No? Did you just tell me no? Did that fall knock another bleeding screw loose in that empty head of yours. You don't tell me no Jamie. You don't tell me what to do. You are not in charge here and you never will be. You get that junior? Has that knocked it's way into that thick skull. You don't get to say no."

[thekimspoblog]

This scene does not exactly play out how I remembered it, and I'm going to need more time to think about what I want to say.

What I will say is there's a much longer post about how Jimmy's relationships with "sweet" old ladies serves as a barometer for his morals, I should probably write.

But BCS ret-cons this guy into someone who seems (A) a lot more competent and (B) someone with more of a personal stake in the concept of "speedy justice", so it comes across as slightly more likely he is sincerely interested in exaggerating a client's injuries to stick it to Boeing, than he is just wasting this poor lady's time and money. Not that I'd actually put it past Saul to drag out a class action suit when that's the exact sin Howard died for. Maybe all this business with the neck braces is just theater when he knows he can't win this fight. Maybe he really has become that big of a hypocrite. But my original point was going to be that assuming he was taking the lawsuit against Wayfarer seriously, forging doctor's notes to bleed a genuinely negligent airline company for extra money is cool and based.