#This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans review

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - Screw everything else inject On1y into my damn veins

Organized, in each category, with ones I'm enjoying most at the top.

Aug 2024 Week 4

Ongoing Series - Thai

Monster Next Door (Thai Thurs Gaga ) eps 5-6 of 12 - Extreme introvert dealing with a very hot, very drunk, very affectionate extrovert was an excellent experience all around. “I was drunk and talking out of my ass, but I wasn’t lying” maybe one of the world’s greatest confessions. How meta that he’s checking out the book of the story that he’s in. Carry on boys, very enjoyable, very Thai BL.

My Love Mix-Up Th (Fri YT) ep 12 fin - It’s cute. They are all very cute. I do like it when high school BL gives us a coming out sequence. I know it’s old-fashioned, but it’s a trope that goes with this particular setting really well, and I just like it when it’s done nicely. I’m not sure I needed it to totally dominate the final episode of the series. But it was fine.

I gotta say, Fourth is an absolutely outstanding actor. He really did knocked it out of the park in this last episode especially. 

In conclusion:

It was fine and it was charming, but it was also a little lackluster. Thailand managed to take one of Japan's softest cutest most bonkers BLs in recent memory and make it softer and cuter and... dull. They did this by watering it down. JBLs almost always have an edge to them, even the rom-coms, by dulling the edge, MLMU lost a great deal of the sparkle and tension as well. What an office setting managed to mostly maintain in the consummate hands of TayNew felt somewhat lackluster when handed off to the next generation and a high school setting. Cherry Magic was a lovely reinterpretation, Mix Up was an amateur's watercolor rendition of a colorful oil painting. Am I being harsh? G4 tried their best, and Fourth turned in some outrageously good acting in the latter half. But the show? It was fine. If you like water colors and you haven't seen (and loved) Kieta Hatsukoi. 8/10

This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans (Fri iQIYI) ep 8 fin - This was the first hint we got that the lead's relationship was anything more than sexual. And it was utilized for a breakup?! JJ and Wan's friendship is the best thing about this show. PWan selling JJ out to Methas was great. I was modestly delighted by the big fuck off ownership engagement ring. I admire a boy who likes to mark his territory with bling. I actually thought this was a decent final episode. If very rushed. I know, in general this ending was objectively weak, but I grinned the entire time, so I can’t really complain that much.

Final thoughts?

A story about a kid who infiltrates a cooking competition under false pretenses and then has to deal with the consequences when he falls in love with the head chef. The side couple is a poor little rich boy meets physical therapist (morality chain). The core friendships are excellent and the chemistry cannot be faulted across the (charcuterie) board. What this show lacks in substance it makes up for in health code violations. It was all chili all the time. Considering that the plot centered on betrayal but the romantic relationship never sweetened enough to balance that bitterness; one could be forgiven for throwing this one in the compost. But I got over all its weaknesses in flavor balancing for an ultimately satisfying meal, with a great dessert course. I've always loved spicy food. Plus the blooper reels were fantastic. 8/10

Addicted Heroin (Thai Tues WeTV) ep 2 of 10 - I like the side couple a lot. It’s nice to see that dynamic developed (as it wasn't in the CBL version). Of course, Thailand leans into a secondary couple, but I also like the super popular jock + geeky boy who couldn’t care less. You know what? I’m actually really enjoying this. And yes, I AM biased because it's August. (Wait, that could be taken several different ways this month. But you know what I mean.) Anygay, this is a lot softer than the original, and so Hero is much more of a pining character and less harsh. But I'm still enjoying it. I like the stepbrothers trope (we don’t get it very much from Thailand), and I enjoy the beats and pulses of this particular story. We will see if it derails into inconsequence and lack of conflict the way My Love Mixup did.  

Sunset X Vibes (Sat iQIYI) ep 11 of 12 - I’m enjoying this show but it should’ve been just 10 eps. It’s feeling bloated at this juncture. That said, I loved our little GL kiss. Very pretty. I also really like the bit with Sam and Yo flirting with each other. Sam trying to get Yo to call him P'Sam was fucking brilliant. And then slipping in all of those nongs. Delightful. Linguistic negotiation, it's what's for dinner... along with Sam's d**k apparently. I frankly did not think they would take this couple that far. So, thank you very much everybody involved.

Battle of the Writers (Sun YT) ep 4 of 12 - I do enjoy watching Yim freak out and fall in love all over again. The reality is still better for me than the fantasy parts, but it’s all fun enough. The magic mushrooms bit was odd. In fact, there is definitely a core tenor of ODD going on with the show. Which I’m accustomed to from Japan but I’m not really sure about from Thailand. Thus I remain engaged but suspicious of this BL. 

I Saw You in My Dream (Weds Gaga) ep 6 of 12 - Yu wants to take his baby on a trip, gets thwarted by his younger brother. Ouch. I really do think it’s time for Ai to tell Yu what’s going on with his dreams! Drunken boyfriend bolster pillow is a fav trope of mine. As usual, I’m catching second lead syndrome. What? I liked the rich boy badminton player. And then he picked up a guitar. Oh well.

The Trainee (Sun YouTube) ep 8 of 12 - No one cares about the hets. He was jelly? Cute. Also kinda an arse, by hey this is BL. 

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

The On1y One (Taiwan Thurs Gaga) eps 1-2 of 12 - announced in 2023, high school, stepbrothers, and is reputed to be high heat. Based on a novel Mou Mou + the Your Name Engraved Herein team.

ARE YOU READY? I'M GOING TO NOT SO QUIETLY LOSE MY DAMN MIND

This is old-school BL and it’s bloody fantastic. Tsundere seme to beat all tsundere (smartest + tallest + bestest at everything but people) meets socially-ept cutie smart-ass protag.

They living together by end of ep 1 and start kissing by end of ep 2.

There is an Unknown quality to this, and that I love. Also, and ironic to say this while Addicted Heroin Th is airing, but this REALLY reminds me of Addicted. It’s so fucking good. I am all in on this show. Shut up while this eats my life.

Cosmetic Playlover (Japan Tues Gaga) eps 5-6 of 8 - Of course! The POV shift to the seme character at ep 5! How could I forget? Japan loves this beat! AND.... The running of the gays. And a use of a first name! So darling. Also some crazy great communication and conversation that is NOT a hallmark of Japan. Sahashi is so very possessive. I loved the switch that went on in his brain and the mania in his eyes when he thought someone else was interested in Natsume. I continue to love this.

I Hear the Sunspot AKA Hidamari ga Kikoeru (Japan Weds Gaga) ep 10 of 12 - I’m never going to like Maya. Sorry. And the leads were separated for most of this episodes so it was largely disappointing. I did like the insight into the way T sees the world, and sees the alienation of a disability and what it's dong to his friend. It’s very empathic. He’s such an appealing character in his obtuse bull-headed way.

Seoul Blues (Korea Fri? YouTube) ep 2 of 8 - It’s intriguing, and I'm happy to have anything from Korea on my dash. But, like Blue Boys, I’m not entirely sure if I like it or not.

First Note Of Love (Taiwan Mon Gaga) eps 3-4 of 12 - This may be Taiwan but I’m still in the "no singing" camp. I’m getting a slightly better chemistry feel off the leads in this episode. I’m not sure if they’re keeping it stiff because the younger character is under age or if it’s just that the actors aren’t there yet? (In other words is this a directing choice or a performance issue?)

Takara's Treasure AKA Takara No Vidro (Japan Mon Gaga) ep 8 of 10 - I've finally come down firmly on the fact that it’s the uneven power distribution (in terms of interest and enthusiasm for the relationship) that I dislike about this show. Generally, I like a power dynamic differential, kinky and all that. But this particular dynamic, when it’s the weaker personality that’s so much more into the stronger one? I never like it, unless it engages a serious pivot at some point. (See My Personal Weatherman or Takara & Amagi.)

It's airing but...

Sugar Dog Life (Japan Sun grey) ep 3 of 10 - I was really loving this one but I can't find ep 3 anywhere so I guess I gotta wait it out. I hope I get to see it eventually.

4 Minutes (Sat Gaga) eps 1-6 of 8 - Gaga picked this one up so we can watch it there. If I have time, I'll get caught up and put it into rotation.

In case you missed it

Meet You at the Blossom (China) - I'm eating crow, binging the fucker, and live blogging.

The Time of Fever AKA Unintentional Love Story 2 (Korea movie) trailer IS COMING IN SEPTEMBER!!!! (Yeah this is gonna sit here until then).

Next Week Looks Like This:

Upcoming BLs for 2024 are listed here. This list is not kept updated, so please leave a comment if you know something new or RP with additions.

Coming Next Month:

The Time of Fever (Korea)

9/1 Live in Love (Thai)

9/3 Happy of the End (Japan)

9/6 Kidnap (Thai)

9/7 The Hidden Moon (Thai)

9/9 Jack & Joker (Thai)

9/14 Love Sick 2024 (Thai)

9/17 Love is Like a Poison AKA Doku Koi: Doku mo Sugireba Koi to Naru (Japan)

More deets next week. It's late and I'm tired.

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

It was pretty. I am very shallow.

Even more pretty. Petition to have Tenon with his shirt off and hair back in every subsequent Thai BL? Just because.

(SunsetXVibes)

(Last week)

Streaming services are listed by how I (usually) watch, which is with a USA based IP, and often offset by a day because time zones are a pain.

The tag BLigade: @doorajar @solitaryandwandering @my-rose-tinted-glasses @babymbbatinygirl @babymbbatinygirl @isisanna-blog @mmastertheone @pickletrip @aliceisathome @urikawa-miyuki @tokillamonger @sunflower-positiiivity @rocketturtle4 @blglplus @anythinggoesintheshire @everlightly @renafire @mestizashinrin @bl-bam-beyond @small-dark-and-delicious @saezurumurmurs

Sigh, Tumblr in its infinite wisdom doesn't like too many tags.

[itsanidiom]

Food safe fun fact #1: DO NOT ICE A BURN

You're supposed to run it under cool water because EXTREME COLD actually stops it from healing

[theside-b]

In honor of Sabrina Carpenter I'll keep my thoughts about This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans short n' sweet:

I loved it.

It was pure mayhem, with not one serious bone in its structure. A cast that understood the assignment, directing that didn't miss one beat and hit all the right notes. They probably had a fraction of a GMM show's budget (Change2561 is actually a subsidiary of GMM) and pretty much outdid anything their mothership delivered this season.

Sailub and Pon more than proved their strength as protagonists while Benz and Garfield shined bright — Benz was having the time of his life and you could tell.

A very talented supporting cast; I want to single out Aon's Kluer: What a fantastic performance, from faithful disciple, machiavellian antagonist, to broken hearted fool, he did it all flawlessly.

In my opinion what set them apart was the fact that everyone was aware how bonkers everything was, and they all were onboard for the ride. They embraced the wackiness and went full throttle, thankfully.

(Low key would rather have a second season of TLDHLB than Pit Babe...)

[invisiblegarters]

(Absolutely not) Micro BL and GL Reviews

I spent the last couple of weeks being ill in bed with very little energy. Not great, but also it meant that my limited ability to get up and move around much gave me endless time to catch up on a bunch of shows that I'd let fall by the wayside (or never even started in the first place), and now I have thoughts to share!

Joy? Joy! Welcome to yet another set of my talks about shows that is supposed to be small but never actually is.

Completed

Wandee Goodday: This wound up being way sweeter than I expected from the promo material, but I'm not complaining. I genuinely love shows where most of the people are just trying to get alone while being decent, and that was certainly the vibe here. I was happy with the sex positivity and the introduction of Kao being ace, although I will admit that I felt like it was a little too "let me educate you" about that bit at certain points. That said, it's a topic that maybe needs that kind of thing in this context? I also really really loved that Dr. Dee and Yak got it together and spent a bunch of episodes just being adorable and dealing with struggles that had nothing to do with their relationship. It's so refreshing to see adults being in an adult relationship and actually acting like it. There were several times when the show could have just manufactured drama for drama's sake and chose not to and I really respect and love that. It was also fun to see Title appear in a role that wasn't to cause problems. And Char and Yei were fucking adorable my god. 8/10

We Are: Way better than I expected, if I'm honest. It got a little draggy for me at the end, but Pond and Phuwin always give solid chemistry and I finally got to see what everyone likes so much about Winny and Satang paired together. I never watched MSP and I never will because it's just a little too young for me, but Toey and Q were fucking cute so I get it now, guys. I especially adored Toey - Satang plays endearing brat very well. I also really liked Tan and Fang - their teasing dynamic worked for me. Also Boom is so pretty my goodness. I do think that it was trying to juggle too many couples but as I already said it dragged a little for me at the end so I think they could have done it with better pacing. It seems to me that New has a thing for dramas driven by internal conflicts, and that was We Are all over. The plot advanced as the characters did, which I can understand might be frustrating but I find that if I'm in the right mood I eat it right up. Especially ones like this, with mostly sweet people just living their lives and trying to do right by themselves and each other. Cute, earnest, a really good friend group. It probably won't be something that I revisit much or that sticks in my mind for a long time, but I had a good time. Giving it a 7/10, mostly for the pacing stuff I already mentioned. It kinda lost me towards the end.

My Marvelous Dream is You: idolfactory's second GL and I think I wanted to like it more than I wound up liking it. The chemistry was good and I love the cast (even if I think my girl Silvy was way underutilized), but the plot was a little...not great. I'm still not entirely sure what it was going for, or why the shared dreams were important. I really liked Ae (Kim's mom). And Wan was my favorite. Girl was messy and brash but my kind of messy and brash if I'm honest, and I cheered aloud when she went off on Mawin's family. They were awful. Awful, too, was Mawin in the end. I get being hurt but I always get a little (a lot) irritated when people mess with someone's livelihood out of pettiness, so him fucking with Kim's business because she broke up with him (and yes, in a really shitty way but also lbr here he knew she wasn't into him in some ways he did that to himself) was never gonna do anything but piss me off. It does amuse me that Heng has now played 2 dudes in idolfactory GLs who very nearly marry one of our heroines when she really really doesn't want him and he's very aware, though. I find myself wondering if he's gonna go for the third in The Loyal Pin (I hope he does). 7/10

Love Sea: I loved this one. I knew I would. The premise had me from moment one, lol. And frankly, Fort and Peat deliver on chemistry so it was kind of a no brainer for me. I knew that Trongrak was gonna wind up being really messy the second love came into the picture, and I was absolutely right. I love how he was perfectly fine with Mahasamut holding him and defending him against his shitty dad and following him around and getting all jealous when he implies he's going out to fuck other people (and whether or not he'd have done it is up for debate - I think he would have forced himself to try and failed miserably because that's my favorite lol) and take care of his niece like family, etc...but the second the word "love" actually makes its way out of the dude's mouth he can't handle it. My only quibbles were Prin - why was she so awful for no reason, MAME? The dad - he was not an effective villain to me. I wish that he'd been a little more menacing but I guess it works that he just let Tongrak think that he'd done a lot of things that he hadn't, and I do like that he was basically squeezing money out of both Tongrak and his mom just by showing up on occasion and assuming that they wouldn't talk to each other (which they weren't, both trying too hard to protect their family from his sliminess). I also like that it was finding that out that made both of them snap out of it. And last but not least - what the FUCK, MAME. How dare you give me that lesbian side couple and make it SO COMPELLING and actually get me invested than then not actually offer a resolution because oops, we're on episode 10 now and it's time for the love issue between Tongrak and Mahasamut to rear its head? How very very DARE you. Genuinely this made me the angriest and dropped my personal enjoyment a lot. I haven't seen the special yet so maybe that gets addressed (it SHOULD I was INVESTED), but while I would probably have given it a 9 (I really liked it a lot okay) I am dropping it to a 8/10 for that. Tempted to drop it to a 7 because I am petty.

This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans: Another one I really liked! The chemistry between Sailub and Pon is absolutely scorching and while I have noticed that actors are getting a lot better about it in general, I always take notice when they are so entirely comfortable with not just the steamier scenes but the emotionally intimate ones as well. I love when I am watching a show and I can believe that the characters want each other and like each other, and not like a part of them isn't flinching at the very idea of it (unless that's the character, but just go with me when I say that there's just a very specific vibe you get when one (or both) of the actors isn't comfortable and I think it actually happens more with the sweet, couply stuff than it does the steamy stuff. But I digress). Chemistry like that can help me forgive quite a bit.

I liked how obnoxious Wan was in the beginning - I did not expect that and it was annoying but also kind of delightful. He grew on me despite my initial annoyance. Oab was a little different - he annoyed me right out of the gate by not calling Kao Suay and telling her about her dad. I get the respect thing, I do, but also what if he died and she was abroad, none the wiser? How would everyone have felt then? Keeping it from her was NUTS, and I don't even care that Kluer called her and told her for nefarious reasons. Someone had to. Oab's wishy washiness with her when she came back annoyed me too - a personal failing of mine has always been that I don't have time for that kind of waffling. I just wanted him to make a choice and stick with it (and was doubly annoyed as it became clearer and clearer what his choice was and he still couldn't just say it). Thank goodness he had Nubnueng there to gently prod him into finally doing the thing.

I wish Kluer's turn to villainy had been more evil, but I guess that wouldn't have made sense for this show, since no one really was, not even Enemy No. 1 Methas. Speaking of which, I wanted to like him and JJ more than I did in the end. I did like them, but I guess I just wanted more development there than I got in the end. They were cute though JJ was hands down my favorite character. I understood Methas so much. I also really enjoyed his relationship with Wan.

One thing that I thought was utterly hilarious was Oab's pettiness. As a petty person myself I can't help but find opening a new restaurant to steal all of your ex's customers because he wouldn't just apologize for, you know, deceiving you for most of your relationship and initially planning to sell your restaurant to the one man in the world you emphatically never wanted to own it absolutely hilarious. No notes Oab you keep rocking on. 8/10

Currently Watching

The Loyal Pin: Everything in this show is so damn pretty it's hard for me to think about much else. Especially Freen, and it seems like all the show wants to do is remind us of her beauty at every moment. Which, well. I am not complaining the woman makes my breath catch.

But this week I finally started paying a bit of attention to something more than oooh pretty, and I am genuinely wondering if this show isn't going to be all pretty dresses and gorgeous women falling in love and carving mangoes and if maybe there aren't some extremely serious things swimming in the waters.

Watching Anin wield her power this week hit me way way harder than all the ways that she'd been doing it before, and in a way that made me think a lot harder about how she'd done it before as well. I think it's because usually she sticks to manipulation to get what she wants - she's charming, she smiles, she talks people around - but last ep she dropped all pretense a couple of times, and we watched it cut more than once. Anin is a woman who knows exactly what she wants and she has the means to get it, she is spoiled and she will do whatever it takes. Other people have talked about it better, but I will say I am absolutely fascinated, and am genuinely curious to see if this is going to be addressed or if it's just the way it is. I also want to see if there's something that will butt up against Anin's frankly terrifying amount of power. Something she can't either manipulate or brute force her way through (although in the end I bet she manages to do one or the other anyway).

Also, kisses. Teach Pin more things Anin! She's a good student.

The Trainee: This show was not really on my radar at all, and I'm genuinely not sure why I decided to pick it up. Maybe because I was finishing up another GMMTV show and it was next in the youtube queue?

Whatever the reason, I'm so glad I did because I fucking LOVE this show. it's my favorite thing airing right now and that I never would have expected or believed.

It really is so good though. I think for me it's that it feels realistic - maybe in a way that can be uncomfortable for some but I love it. No one here is perfect, it's not just the mentors constantly schooling the kids because even though they are older, they are still growing too, and still have things to learn. Especially when it comes to Jane, who is my favorite character in the show I think and is hands down the best Off character I have personally seen. I am so iffy with Off normally that my adoration for Jane is confusing me, but he's so good. He's an adult and he handles most of his problems like an adult (which frankly I think is sometimes missing from these shows), but still has moments where he fumbles because he's still human. And I like that when he does fumble, he apologizes. I'm also really in to the whole deal that happens in the workplace where people think he's a certain way and judge him for it, but he's really just...dedicated. Strict, yes, but not entirely uncompromising. I dunno he's just a great character.

I also really like how this feels like an ensemble show with the romance not at the forefront. I don't always want that but this is so well done that I'm happy for it. I like that we have gotten to showcase each intern, their struggles and their achievements and just...growing up and learning to handle that scary point in life where you're really starting to enter the adult sphere, with all it's responsibilities, but still not ones that are entirely on your shoulders. If you do things the more traditional way, that is - I know a lot of us were in that world well before college. Still, it does resonate with me.

I am also enjoying the insight we're getting into the background of production. Such as how much work and effort goes into even the smallest change in filming even something that seems as simple and straightforward as an ad. Imagine how hard it would be to reshoot scenes from something like a TV show, especially considering the stuff like location, OT, cast and crew...I had already guessed a lot of it, but it's always nice to be proven correct. I like being right, what can I say? And the Ryan's awkwardly trying to draw people out without directly asking them how they are After Work Corner is very charming. I like that it gives insight into the business but also Ryan, who I do sometimes feel is the weakest of the interns. Which is insane because he's played by Gun Atthaphan, but there you go. I did like that he was brave enough to ask Jane about his feelings last ep, and I'm looking forward to seeing him more in his element (or at least what he's used to) next ep.

I really hope this show continues to impress.

1000 Stars - This is a rewatch for me as I roped a friend into watching for the first time. I warm up to this one more each time I watch it. The first time I was annoyed with Phupha's everything but I feel like I get him more and more as I go on. I also love a show that has heart (heh, this show has heart ror sure (and this is why we can't take me anywhere)) and this has a ton of it. It also amuses me whenever Phupha and Tian start doing their intense staring thing and there are other people around. I bet they're all just like "welp there they go again we've lost them, best go about our business" and leave them to it.

I also always forget Khaotung is in this one. Every time I watch I'm like "oh yeah" when he shows up. It's so funny to me.

Looking Forward To:

Peaceful Property (28 Aug) - Is it BL? Is it bromance? Who knows. Do I care? I...don't think so. Whatever the romance situation it looks like a ton of fun, and I am excited to see Tay back in glasses and to see this cast, especially doing comedy.

Kidnap (06 Sep) - This one also looks like fun. I love Ohm, Leng looks like he's doing a good job matching him, they seem to have good chemistry from the trailer. And pettily I'd watch this anyway because some of the shenanigans of certain fans have made me that annoyed. Good for me that it looks like something I'll like regardless, I guess.

Pluto (???) - GIMME GIMME GIMME GIMME. It has been 84 years I am DYING here. If it doesn't get released this year I might actually cry, but I am hoping that it will.

There are others I am looking forward to (honorable mentions if you will): My Golden Blood, The Heart Killers, ReVamp (still a stupid title), Friendshit Forever, Hide & Sis, Us - but all of these are either not filming yet or so early into their schedule that I'm not letting myself get too excited for them. And for The Heart Killers especially I don't want this to be an Only Friends situation where I got really hyped and then was inevitably kind of disappointed (at first - I shook it off and came back around eventually lol). I just wanna go in there and have a good time - I'm excited to see that entire cast do a romcom, I think it'll be fun, and that's about all I want to expect out of it. I'll get excited when we get an air date.

Also thinking of picking up 4Minutes since it's on Gaga now, apparently. And maybe trying to find My Stand In since it's over and I can inhale those deliciously toxic fumes all in one (or two) sitting(s). And maybe, just maybe, poke around for BL and GLs outside Thailand, lol. I feel like it's been all Thailand all year for me when I used to watch JBLs and KBLs too.

Any recs?

[fanatic-freakshow]

What? My opinion about This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans? Glad you asked.

I don't usually review dramas --- I’m more of a “Liked it,” “Hated it,” “Loooved it!,” or "It was torture" kind of person. But when a drama like this comes along, with sky-high potential and a crash landing? Well, I have no choice but to rant.

(Let's keep the offence to a minimum, folks. We don't all have to agree. My opinion on this drama has zero effect on your life.)

And.... Holy Mother of the Lords! There was zero --- I tell you, ZERO (okay, I'm a generous person: 1.4%) of development. The only one I could say showed a little tiny bit of development was Chef Oab. Everyone else? Flat as a crêpe. Relationship-wise, I’m still scratching my head. Why do they like each other? Why does Chef Oab like Plawan? Why does Plawan like him? WHYY?

Oh but Cookie, love needs no reason. You just feel it.

To that, I say puh-lease. Spare me. Not a single date, not one meaningful conversation? But hell with that. The first pairing didn’t do it for me (apart from the steamy scenes. I'm all about that Sailub and Pon chemistry).

Now, let’s get to the real tragedy.

JJ and Methas. Same story. Why did JJ end up with a person like Methas? To the point where they’re declaring undying love? And don’t get me wrong - I adored these two. But why make such a big fuss of these relationships when they were just... Attraction. I mean, marriage proposals? After what, three weeks with a rocky start? And can we talk about that ring? So ugly (very fun scene though)! They had so much potential, I was rooting for them so hard, and then --- BAM! --- they rushed everything. I get it, 8 episodes isn’t much. It wouldn't even be enough if these two were the main couple.

Methas was screaming for more development. He’s the perfect mix of cliché and complexity, but we barely scratched the surface. We needed more of his backstory, more of his struggles, more of JJ giving him those clichéd, love-struck googly eyes whenever Methas did something unexpectedly sweet, more, more, more... This relationship deserved better, and so did we!

The feeling I got was that they summarized the actual series.

To end on a positive note, their acting? Much better! Their chemistry? Off the charts! Here’s an idea: make a new version with Benz and Garfield as the main couple. Show and develop their side of the story. Give them the screen time they deserve. I’d watch that in a heartbeat!

[watchthisqqq]

I enjoyed this show!

You can’t expect it to be anything that it’s not. This show knew what it was and executed it well. Consistent pacing and freaking landing the ending. Fun and more heartfelt that I would have assumed. Also a million plus points for all the kissing. I mean the NCs scenes were nice but just kissing regularly and not being this weird drawn out thing. Also that Wan was so freaking down for it as well. I think what this shows me is that distinctive characters and good chemistry is king.

I saw criticism saying they didn’t understand why Wan was a character in this show. To me he is the only person to make this show function. Someone that would make so many impulsive, selfish, and almost self-destructive decisions. Also thinking he could just loose the competition and everything would be fine! Not a lot of thinking about potential consequences. JJ is actually a really interesting character. Obviously very kind and giving to the point of it bordering on a flaw but I love how they showed his insecurities. JJ being baffled about being liked and his questioning if methas is serious. Good show and not tell in general in this series

[uruzuy3]

Translation of Servamp drama CD in the final manga volume

Law: Nii-san！Nii-san Kuro: ……Umm？ Law: Really, when did you start sleeping? Law: Lawless-chan has come to visit you Kuro: …Oh—Lawless, What's going on, am I dreaming? Law: Dreaming? Kuro: I recalled some things from the past Law: I see Kuro: …no, It's okay Law: Well, I understand. Nii-san, you feel lonely, right? Kuro: Ah? Law: It's been a long time since Mahiru left. Kuro: I'm not lonely, you know that too, this day will eventually come Kuro: And you, aren't you going? grave cleaning Law: Even if I go to the grave… Law: But Nii-san, aren't you going? The Shirota family's graves…is very close Kuro:I am hesitant Kuro: In Japan, there is a custom called 'Obon', where grave cleaning is usually done in summer Kuro: But this drama CD was released in winter, so the seasons don't match up…

Mahi: Hey! Don't jump into heavy topics. Kuro: Oh, Mahiru's back. Kuro: Welcome home. Law: Welcome home. Mahi: I'm back! I'm not dead yet! Mahi: I just went on a trip with Sakuya and Misono! Misono: Hahahah! Excuse me! I'm here to deliver the souvenirs I bought on my trip with Shirota. Law: It's so nice to travel. What's the souvenirs? Mahi: Here! Hot Spring Buns! Law: You guys went to the hot springs again? Law: Sevramp's drama cd really likes hot springs! Law & Kuro: chewing Kuro : It' red bean paste….you know red bean paste is my type, you are so great, Mahiru Mahi: What are you guys doing? Don't start like 'Actually, it's been a couple hundred years' while I'm not here. Mahi: And what was that you said about grave cleaning? Mahi: Licht-san's not dead yet, is he? Law: No, Licht said he wanted to visit his great-grandfather's grave since it's rare for him to come to Japan. Mahi: Don't say things that could be misunderstood！ Mahi: Then what are the Shirota family's graves? Kuro: It's the graves of Mahiru's ancestors. Kuro: After all, I'm already the shirota family's cat, so I thought I'd go to greet Mahi: You're such a polite cat.

Law: Hehehe. The buns are delicious. Can I have another one? Mahi: I could give it to you….but then Licht's share would be gone… Kuro: Speaking of which, isn't Angel-chan coming? Licht: Wherever there's a Mr. Cat, I'll go there immediately. Why? Because I'm an angel. Kuro: Wow, he showed up as soon as I said his name. Mahi: What is the connection between cats and angels? Law: (scream)!!!Wait!? Licht-tan, don't kick someone while he's eating buns! What are you going to do if I choke on it! Licht: Because I asked you to wait for me, but you left without permission. Law: But I don't like visiting graves. Mahi: Licht-san, please take this souvenirs! Licht: Thanks (for the food) Licht: There's … a dense feeling behind the moist veil Law: Let's leave angel-chan's angel food review aside for a moment, the hot springs are so nice! Law: I want to go there again. Next time, I'll call wa-kun and Nicco. Misono: Well, whether it's the hot spring or some other trip, I'd still like to go with you all too! Mahi: But even if we keep quiet, there should still be a lot of people coming next time. Mahi: Sakuya's cell phone is getting a lot of messages from Tsubaki. Mahi: Although he hung up right away, but Tsubaki kept complaining about being “so cunning, so cunning”, he'll definitely come along without permission next time! Kuro: It's gonna get loud if Melancholy comes too….I won't go then. Kuro: Speaking of which, Mahiru went to kisama-chan's house on his trip and met Lily and Hugh. Kuro: In the face of hugh's incessant love talk, Lily was also forced to participate. Misono: What? Something so interesting has happened. Misono: Lily's been acting like he doesn't know what to do with me since the decisive battle Law: This is because he is bearing the shame of his dark history. He's ashamed to be alive. I understand, I understand Licht: I see, he's just like you. Law: You are so annoying Law: Speaking of love talk … ah, not actually….someone came to me for consultation today. Kuro: Ask you about his love troubles? Licht: Ah? You are not popular with girls, are you? Law: Hey! What are you talking about?! I have a lot of popular elements! Have you read the previous chapter of servamp? Law: I specialise in flashy battles with rapier! And I can also use gun coolly! Law: Actually, I am good at driving and cooking. And, I am stylish and perfect Kuro: Are you saying these yourself? Law: And the past chapter also revealed that I was once a prince! Law: There are so many elements that make Lawless-chan popular! Licht: But you are not popular with girls Law: You are so annoying！！ Law: Shut up! You super violent handsome eccentric pianist angel popular with the general public!! Kuro: Angel-chan is very popular even if he doesn't speak, which's so cunning. Mahi: You are the same，right? Kuro: Ah? I am also popular when I speak.

Law: No! This is not about popularity or relationship troubles Law: The Main topic is that I'm a 便利屋 now!! Mahi: 便利屋? Law: From love troubles to monster extermination! No matter how big or small your troubles are, I will help save the world. This is Lawless-chan's new job. Mahi: So you are doing this kind of thing, it sounds interesting Kuro: Will you say "It looks like a vampire did this…" and then blackmail the customers? Law: I wouldn't do such a thing. Law: This is the troublesome consultation I received. Law: Lawless-chan, who saves the world, responds carefully and thoughtfully to even the smallest annoyances. Law: This commission is as follows Law: Dear highly esteemed 便利屋 Mr Hedgehog! Kuro: Mr Hedgehog…? Law: Oh, don't pay attention to such details. Law: I have some queries pertatining to a conflict between my brother and I. Due to some conflicts at home, he has now been actively avoiding me.(Here used a serious and rigid grammar which like ancient people. Ordinary people don't speak like this.)

Mahi: ござります？（same with です） Law: Although I want to talk to my brother… Law: What course of action would you suggest I undertake? Should I confront him, or give hime some space? Kuro: The last tone sounded like a samurai…… Mahi: Are the samurai worried about their brotherly relationship? Misono: I don't think this samurai is someone else. This is also a question I really want to ask. How would you answer? Let me refer to it. Kuro: There's no correct answer to this question. Just answer your thoughts. Law: Um… in my opinion, your brother may also be waiting for you to talk to him. I think you could be a little tougher…? Mahi: Hmm? What's wrong with you? Why are you suddenly slurring your words? Law: Ah… because, well, I was very tough with my brother before… and suddenly started fighting. What did you think about that? Nii-san Mahi: Ah! You mean when you first appeared? You really wanted to talk to Kuro, so you took strong action Law: Hey! Don't be so direct! I'm still worried. Licht: What? You've been wasting your time worrying about this? Licht: You still a hesitate rat Law: Please leave me alone!! I just want to hear my brother's opinion in order to graduate from the Hesitant rat Law: I am a man who can face my past! Kuro: …Well, at that time I thought…what does this guy want to do? Kuro: I think…In my case, I can’t communicate with others because I have my own shortcomings. Kuro: After all, before I faced you, I didn't face myself properly. Mahi: Kuro…. Kuro: But it is difficult for a person to face himself properly. It is good to have a younger brother or something else as an opportunity. Law: Is, is that true? Licht: Really, you always make people worried. Law: I have been stagnant for a long time, but time cannot be turned back, and the best time to act is before the idea becomes stale. Law: Of course, you may fail after taking action. But it's definitely better than not facing it. Misono: Well ,I see, I was a bit timid. Law: I'll message him back right away. For Hedgehog, timely response is also very helpful for selling

Law: Um… reply,reply….. Licht: The Lamb samurai wandering alone… this may become his memorial star Mahi: The Lamb samurai? Law: OK, send it. Misono: Hmm? There's mail. Misono: This is the reply to the life consultation I sent before Law: Wait a minute!! The samurai is you?!? Misono: What do you mean? Kuro: I do have that feeling… Mahi: Me too Misono: What!? The consulting link of this website was recommended to me by Lily. Is this consultant you?! Answer me quickly! Law: You are the same!! I wish you had noticed this when I read the samurai's mail! Misono: Although I did think that this was very similar to the mail I sent… Law: Your reaction is too slow! ! Misono: Do you think I would say "please" to you? Mahi: Well, I guess it's just a communicate error. Kuro: From now on, kisama-chan's nickname will become Samurai. Kuro: kisama samurai-chan Mahi: If Tsubaki were here, he would definitely say: How dare you ignore me, a purely Japanese-style character, and say that you are a samurai or something like that! Kuro: Maybe he is saying this in a scene right now, around here, Near the upper right corner Misono: So that's you. Misono: But I appreciate your gentlemanly answer. Misono: I gained a lot of courage because I didn't think mikuni would really resist Misono: I will continue to pester him and make him talk to me Law: That's will be great Misono: Then I'll climb into Mikuni's room through the window tonight and launch a surprise attack! Mahi: I think it's better for you to just walk through the door and enter his house. Kuro: You don't have such good physical fitness… Licht: How about an appearance with angel wings…slowly descending from the sky to the window? Licht: Under the moonlight, the two brothers had a mysterious reunion Mahi: Please don't let Misono perform wire action!! Misono: I also know the decisive lines and poses that made mikuni turn back! Misono: That's it! Why? Because I'm an angel!! Licht: The angle of the arm is like this!! Misono: Ah,AAAAH It's hurt!! Licht: Show your wings of tolerance!! Misono: My arm is going to break! !!!Wait!Ah!! Kuro: Well, now the matter is settled, let's have some dessert Law: That's great. What kind of dessert will Shirota Mahiru make for us?

Law: …Eh? Nii-san!??! Misono: Why would you, why would the Sloth cat be standing in the kitchen wearing an apron! Kuro: How about soft pancakes? Mahi: Are you going to make pancakes? I'm looking forward to it. Law: Mahiru doesn't look surprised at all, why? This scene looks weird, doesn’t it?! Law: Nii-san, wearing an apron with a cat design and a bandana, stood in the kitchen happily making dessert Mahi: What are you saying? Kuro's been cooking a lot lately. Kuro: I'm best at making gorgeous pasta. Law: Is that true? You don't even fit the name of the Sloth cat. Kuro: Though I think so too, this is also the era. Law: How did it come to this? Isn't Nii-san just a handsome guy if he's not lazy? Kuro: With my skills, it's not impossible to open a coffee shop in the future. Kuro: Handsome Voice Cat Angel's Fluffy Coffee Kuro: Welcome. If you want a seat, you can have my knee? Law: What kind of store is this! Kuro: I was wrong. On the contrary. It's me who's going to sit on your knee, meow. Kuro: Because I have to bake everyone's pancakes, so you'll have to wait. Licht: Is today's dessert a fairies' nap mat? Law: It's pancakes Licht: There's four of them. Licht: I feel like I can call my friend squirrel-san too. Law: He's saying you can make the pancakes bigger. Licht: I'll pour lots of whipped cream and honey on it, and add melon Kuro: Don't eat the fairies' nap mats, otherwise where will the fairies sit? Licht: I would order Chocolate Fountain and Clouds from Heaven For drinks Law: He said hot cocoa with marshmallows Kuro: Hey, angel-chan, don't turn this into a mysterious concept coffee shop Kuro: Okay, it's done. Misono: Oh, it's really baked soft. Kuro: This is growth through story. Misono: Growth? In this form?! I also want people to see my growth like this Kuro: Soft pancakes, and French brownies directly taught by Alicein family Mahi: Looks so delicious Misono: When did you become so good at cooking? Kuro: I am a genius cat who can easily succeed in anything I do Kuro: And, I'll do some magic. Kuro: Become delicious, neco-neco cute~~ Misono: What is that weird dance?

Licht: Hey! Hyde, let's do the usual one and pile the whipped cream into the shape of angel wings Law: Again? Licht-tan really likes this Law: I feel like I'm almost a professional wing painter Kuro: You have good skill. Kuro: In this way, we may all run a coffee shop together in the future. Mahi: Haha I'm really looking forward to it All: Let's eat Misono: So delicious!! Let the chef come here! Law: Does this have ricotta cheese? It's too soft! Licht: It's fairies' soft nap mat! Law: Licht-tan, the whipped cream is going to melt if you keep staring. Mahi: Thanks for making it for us, Kuro. So delicious!! Kuro: It's too easy for Chef Kuro.

Law: Um, Licht-tan, Kranz asked what you want for dinner. Licht: I'm in a good mood today, so let's eat melon Law: Why do you always eat melon? Licht: Because it's a special day, so we need a special melon. Law: why? Licht: Everything can't start over. But what you're going to do now is something you can change on your own. Licht: It seems that you understand this, and as an angel I am very satisfied. Law: You mean… the trouble consultation just now? Licht: Not just as an angel, as your friend, I think so too. Law: Although Licht usually has an expression that says I won't regret… Law: But Licht also regretted when he was a child because he lost a friend. Law: Because of me, he was able to reunite with that friend. Licht: I have regretted something before, but only by taking action can we broaden the path forward. Licht: Hyde, you found me because I didn't give up playing. Law: That's…. Licht: Because of you, I can play the best piece of music for my friend who has never heard the whole piano piece. Licht: If I hadn't met you, this regret would never disappear Licht: Thank you, Hyde! Licht: The same goes for you, if you regret something, keep taking action! Licht: What you did will not go away, and there is no way to punish the devil Licht: But because of this, you should save as many people as you can, whether I am here or not. Law: Licht-tan… Licht: I will help you while I am with you. Law: I was surprised Law: I could actually hear Licht thanking me directly.

Licht: why are you in a daze? Law: It's nothing. I just thought of the miserable look of Licht-tan who almost died in the final battle last year. Licht: I don't remember showing you this look. Licht: Why? Because I am… Law: Yes, yes, Archangel Licht: Really, if I don't kick you, you'll stop like this right away Law: No way! I already understand the angel philosophy! I understand it to the point of being annoying! Law: Ah, there is a new commission mail … Law: Wow, here comes an angel type case! Licht: An angel type? Law: A cursed villa where mysterious music can be heard at night Law: A room where sad cries can be heard… Law: Because it's so scary, I'm troubled! Licht: It's the Angel's turn! Law: This may be a combat mission that I haven't seen for a long time! Law: It is look like the monster extermination Law: The location is very close! Licht: Sad creatures must be purified by an angel like me Licht: When are we going, tomorrow? Law: Tomorrow? Licht-tan do you have time? Licht: I said I will help you while I am with you. Law: Hehehe, you are indeed an angel. I feel like you'll follow me to the end of hell haha Law: I got so much from Licht, but I couldn't calm down after only that one thank you. Law: And there were so many things I wanted but didn't get before we met. Law: I want to live in a way that Licht and others can thank me. Licht: Let's go, Hyde, have dinner first! Follow me! Law: Okay,okay! I will follow you wherever you go

[forwards-beckon-rebound]

batfam fragrance hcs pt 1

ft. bruce, dick and jason

bruce

as brucie? my man is old money, he's screaming penhaligon's to me

they have a very long history (est 1870) seems like the type of thing where like his father would've used it and so he picked it up

probably has a few from them, i'm imagining when he's trying to lean more into the billionaire playboy aesthetic he goes for the dandy

the dandy is an homage to endless nights. vintage whiskey from the oak barrel swims above a fruity finish of bergamot and raspberry. a woody celebration blended with mischief.

for more formal business settings, i imagine he'd go with the tragedy of lord george

yes, the irony of the name is not lost on me, especially when i think this would be more similar to what thomas wayne would wear

you can't tell me this doesn't look like it could be found in wayne manor

from the reviews, seems like it gives off 19th century gentleman's club, woody and warm with heart notes of tonka bean

noble patriarch, paragon of masculine elegance, lord george welcomes with a scent of shaving soap and warming rum. But what secrets hide behind tradition?

as batman? i don't think he'd wear any cologne just so that there's no identifiers

like imagine if his secret identity got found out because of his cologne, i fear THE batman would have already planned for that

if anything he probably sprays one of those like scent neutralizers so you don’t smell like anything

i think he would just smell like leather and metal from his suit and gadgets, that's' it

that goes for all of the batfam tbh bc bruce trained them better than that

dick

fresh, i feel like like out all of them he'd have the least offensive cologne (or maybe i’m just saying that because i hate the majority of men’s fragrances)

probably pretty light too, like mostly citrus, and fresh notes

imagine it's unisex but still leans masculine

so basically in the least weird way possible he smells absolutely delicious

i think he’s so acqua di parma coded, like very bright, complex blend of citrus. just evokes bright sunny days in the mediterranean

but i will say that some acqua di parma perfumes are almost a bit too citrus forward? and the ones that aren’t i don’t think really fit him, like colonia which is their signature is nice but feels a bit old fashioned for him

especially bergamotto di calabria, which has nice top notes of bergamot but also an interesting hint of ginger that sets the fragrance apart from other citrus perfumes on the market

i feel like it’s a very dick grayson thing to have a twist to his cologne

bergamotto di calabria is characterised by effervescent top notes of bergamot fruits. at the heart of this eau de toilette, accords of red ginger and cedar wood bring a calming note while the base is rounded off with a unique combination of vetiver, benzoin, and musk.

jason

i fear he would use axe body spray

JK but like i feel like growing up he did not have time to care about that type of stuff so he would just smell like whatever deodorant was the cheapest. and then once he got adopted by bruce, he was too busy juggling school and being robin

i personally subscribe to the hc that all of his senses were heightened by the lazarus pit. i also know that in the comics as well as canon there have been discussions about things that might trigger his panic attacks (or if they’re not canonically panic attacks, as someone who has them they certainly feel very panic attack coded) and i think one of those triggers might be certain smells for him

jason todd whose throat closes up when he smells smoke or burning wood. who can’t stomach the metallic tang of blood on iron so he wears the helmet to limit his sense of smell

anyways! so yeah i think like dick he doesn’t want a reminder of his patrols but for a different reason

some sources also recommend focusing on 5 things that you can sense around you to help ground yourself so i could see him seeking comfort in a familiar scent

sad stuff aside THIS LIT NERD WOULD LOVE IMAGINARY AUTHORS

for the uninitiated, they’re a niche fragrance house that specifically has a story around each perfume

so like the notes are meant to evoke aspects of the story

in their “about us” they literally say that they view each fragrance as a book. each bottle’s side is literally designed to look like the spine of a book. jason would eat that shit up and you can’t convince me otherwise

i think o, unknown! would be a really good fit for that situation

notes of black tea, musk, and sandalwood that is both sweet and soothing

i think it would remind him of his days spent at the manor, having afternoon tea with alfred

tea time on a train, the powder room at a lavish gala, something so familiar yet you can’t quite put your finger on it. this is the story of a man grappling with the meaning of life as he grasps at life’s last vestiges

i think the cobra and the canary would really suit him as well

for more day to day stuff

likeeeeeee he just screams woody spicy to me

in theory it has lemon (according to the creators) but it’s definitely more leather and hay funnily enough than anything else

very biker core are we surprised

leather, lemon, asphalt, hot summer road trips, visions of your dad back when he was cool, crossing state lines with your sidekick, slicking your hair back and getting in a metaphorical knife fight with your old self

each stop finds the friends inventing new pseudonyms and personas for themselves, their innocent game hurtling them into the throes of decadence and desolation

not to show my obvious bias by making jason’s section way longer than everybody else’s butttttt i also quite like aesop for him

i feel like they are a bit strong so i don’t know if he would like that part (even for somebody who does not have the most sensitive sense of smell i can say they get a bit overwhelming)

but if you can tone them down i think they’re quite nice, technically unisex but a lot of them lean more masculine since they’re more earthy and musky

most of them have vetiver which just seems very jason coded to me

i think hwyl especially just seems like it would fit him

also process of elimination, he would probably go for woody, which is basically every single aesop perfume. citrus and floral notes don't really fit him that well (ik i mentioned cobra and the canary but it's not as citrus forward as the aesop citrus perfumes), and nothing opulent or too musky either

but honestly a lot of aesop perfumes are fairly similar but will just react to your skin's chemistry differently, so who knows

an intriguing fragrance with a hint of eccentricity. reminiscent of a Hinoki forest, smoky notes descend into subtle spice and dark green, earthy accords

[eww-y-tho]

The hypothetical debates surrounding the whole "Lady and Lord Whistledown" vs "Colin and Penelope Bridgerton" make me wither because

Lady and Lord Whistledown.

I'm telling you, this shit would be so fucking funny. I can picture it in my mind's eye: Bridgerton season 4, we get a quick shot of Colin and Penelope talking shit and giggling like crazy in the background, maybe with some PDA to match because Colin can't keep his hands off her, only to hear a male voice actor of a similar calibre to our angel Julie Andrews join in sometimes while Charlotte picks up the paper and cackles. Obviously, the reveal would happen, but I want to believe that our Queen would be down for Whistledown to continue as long as it doesn't get too personal. It would be kind of unfair and a bit indicative of the period, monarchy and all, but Charlotte being in on it would amp up the comedy points. Plus some ~historical cultural commentary~ would just be that final flavouring of spice.

It would kind of feel like Colin's turning to the dark side because we've already seen quite a few scenes where he seems possessed by Lady Whistdown's attitude and I love the idea of him coming from hating Lady Whistledown's guts to protecting her and joining in because it's fun and it activated his little shit reflex. Plus the subtextual implications of just how much Colin and Penelope actually are best friends and are connected beyond normalcy would just be *chef's kiss*

I would also love it because it feels very partner-in-crime vibes, giving another aspect to their relationship that would be fun to see. Combined with the power Lady Whistledown has on the story, we'd be guaranteed to see our beans quite a lot. Also a "Hello, my Lady," followed by a "Hello, my Lord" after a particularly steamy scene would literally have me shaking crying giggling dancing kicking my feet.

As for Penelope, it honestly depends on how you view her character and her relationship with Lady Whistledown. If the person in question thinks that Lady Whistledown is a vital part of her personality, an aspect of who she is, limiting her by making her quit would just feel really, really sad, man. Lady Whistledown has caused Pen a lot of grief, however, and we see it a lot throughout the story, so I think Colin being there, sharing the secret and partaking would make her feel much more comfortable in her own skin.

Anyway. Love the idea, and would perish if it happened, but probably won't.

Colin and Penelope Bridgerton.

This one's more cute than anything else. Two writers as a couple release solo and joint works sometimes while establishing their reputation as respectable authors and leaving Lady Whistledown behind them. I can see another scene in my mind's eye, Colin and Pen are sitting across from each other on their respective writing desks, writing and then handing each other their work to review and give opinions, paired with a kiss after they start teasing each other about their writing. Considering that the designated Sexy Desk Scene has already been taken, this would have to be in a secluded area or in their bedroom. And then shots of people buying their books and enjoying them would ensue.

With the amount of journals and letters and things Colin's done, he's practically primed for an author's role. Maybe they can be more exposed to Colin's love for travel in this version. Having Penelope with him on his trips while writing their little hearts out would be adorable. Sadly, though, this would mean that they would probably have less screen time.

If you see Lady Whistledown as an outlet for the suffering Penelope was going through throughout the story, she wouldn't need Lady Whistledown anymore and abandon the alias because she's served her purpose as Penelope's coping mechanism, and Colin and Penelope would find their fix through other means. Maybe continuing to gossip but only between the two of them, going back to the beginning of the series and the final link to their relationship.

It's been established over and over again that they both love reading, writing, gossiping, and discussing all things philosophical. And each other for enjoying those qualities. So, I think this dynamic would be particularly interesting because it would be yet another way to connect. They could probably also make each other all hot and bothered by leaving random sexy letters sporadically, which would just be so fitting, tbh. However, that would also work for the Lady and Lord Whistledown dynamic so it's kind of a null point. It would be hot, though.

And, yeah, that's how I see those hypothetical dynamics playing out and how that would affect the characters. But now for the negatives. While I love the Lord Whistledown idea, I do think that Colin is a bit too nice and cute for that, and it would probably be a bit OOC, especially because of his personal experiences with Whistledown, it would be a bit weird if his tune suddenly changed to "yeah, I know gossip can ruin someone's life, but I like it now, so I don't care." But I also just can't fathom Bridgerton without Lady Whistledown, and this idea hinges on literally removing the narrator and source of all the tea, as well as making us lose our angel Julie Andrews. At least the Lady and Lord Whistledown idea fulfills almost all fronts of their relationship dynamic.

Again, as the GIF demonstrates, both are good, and I love both of them for the different ways they would take the characters, but let's be real, a combo would be really fun as well. Like Pen keeps up with Lady Whistledown while Colin writes his own books or smth.

Anyway, enough of my rambling. Bye.

[feyburner]

tumblr user feyburner, i have a confession. i don't know how to roast a chicken, or do anything with a chicken, and at this point i'm afraid to ask.

I can tell you're afraid to ask bc this isn't really a question. But I will answer it anyway. I'm always happy to talk about chicken.

You’ll be pleased to learn that roasting a chicken is so easy. The below explanation is quite long bc I am including all the information I can remember, to set you up for chicken roasting success. But, essentially, you’re rubbing a chicken in oil and seasonings and putting him in the oven for like an hour. Done.

Remember that people have been roasting whole chickens since the dawn of time using whatever they had around bc it’s the most low effort, high reward meal ever. You could say the word “salt” in a chicken’s general direction and toss him at a candle flame and he would still turn out great.  

To roast a chicken:

Buy a whole chicken, however big you want. 4-5 lbs is enough to feed 3-5 people with leftovers.

Prepare a workspace with a plastic cutting board (not wooden bc raw chicken juices) and paper towels. 

Remove the giblets, pin feathers, extra flaps:

1. Stick your hand up his primary orifice and pull out anything loose. There is usually a handful of little organs like heart and gizzards and sometimes these strings of pale bean looking things (tbh not sure what those are). Save these for stock, except the liver (super dark squishy organ) which will disintegrate. You can eat the liver separate if you want.

2. Trim off any sticky-outy bits that have pin feathers on them, and the flaps of fat/gristle over his orifice. Save the fatty bits for stock. Leave the triangle of fat directly above the orifice (his tail). 

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels inside and out. Get him as dry as possible. 

Spatchcock: You don’t have to spatchcock/butterfly but I like to, bc it maximizes outer surface area for that good good crispy skin. Also easier to get breasts and thighs done at the same rate.

All you have to do is cut the backbone out of the chicken with poultry shears or kitchen scissors if you’re desperate. Then push down hard to crack the breastbone so he lies super flat. Save the backbone for stock or jus. How to spatchcock step by step guide.

Dry brine: Prepare a bowl of coarse kosher salt. More salt than you’d think. Like 1 Tbsp per lb of meat. Rub salt over the whole chicken inside and out. Don’t skimp on the salt especially on the inside. It will not make your chicken crazy salty, it doesn't penetrate the meat that deep. Also some will be wiped off before you cook. 

Put the chicken on a wire rack on a baking sheet and chill uncovered in the fridge for 2-24 hours. The point of this step is the salt draws moisture to the surface of the chicken, which then evaporates in the circulating fridge air. It helps you get crispy chicken skin.

Dry brine + resting isn't 100% necessary, if for some reason you must produce a roasted chicken on a time crunch. But it's a good practice.

Roasting time:

Pat excess moisture off chicken inside and out. If you did not spatchcock you can stuff the inside with a halved lemon or garlic head, herbs, whatever you want. 

Seasoning rub: Prepare a small bowl with olive oil (maybe 1/4-1/3 cup?), salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and whatever dried herbs and spices you want. A good starter is: salt, pepper, parsley sage rosemary thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder. I love me some Cajun spice mix like Slap Ya Mama. Start with like 1-2 tsp of each (1 tsp spices, 2 tsp dried herbs) and build from there. Don’t be shy. Recipes on the internet are like “Use 1/2 tsp herbs for this whole recipe” because they’re heading off 1-star reviews from annoying people who can’t handle a molecule of flavor. Season with your heart, your pussy, and your balls. Don’t be ashamed to use a store-bought spice rub. It’s not lazy, it’s efficient. Also, who gives a shit.

Rub the oil all over Mr. Chicken like he’s an Ancient Greek warrior-prince you’re preparing for the Olympic Games. 

Some recipes tell you to use butter, or slip butter under the skin, but butter has higher water content than oil and might not get you the ideal crispy skin. You can do whatever you want though. It’s your chicken. 

Preheat the oven to 425°. People will tell you a billion different temperatures—screaming hot, low and slow—but I’m here to tell you that it is so hard to fuck up a roast chicken, you can experiment and the results will always be great. 

I like to start at a high temp for 30 minutes to get the skin crisping and then reduce to 375° for the rest of the time to avoid burning. Sometimes you’ll have to cover him with foil if the seasonings start charring. That’s fine.

General cook time: 20 minutes per lb of meat, give or take 20 depending on oven temp. A 4-5 lb chicken at 425° -> 375° generally takes me ~1 hour 20 minutes. If you do low and slow at like 325° it might take 2+ hours. Just check on him periodically. Tbh it’s harder to overcook a chicken than you probably think. 5 minutes, or even 10-20 minutes, is NOT the difference between beautiful tender juicy chicken and a bone-dry tragedy. Chicken is not turkey. He is versatile and he can take it.

Pull the chicken when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 145° or above. (160° is the “safe temp” but 1. The temp will continue to rise for a few minutes after it leaves the oven, and 2. 160° is the temp at which bacteria dies immediately. 145° is fine for eating. Disclaimer: I am not a scientist just a guy who makes a lot of chicken.)

If you don’t have a thermometer, pull the chicken when you insert a knife into the thickest part and the juices run clear. Gorgeous.

Let him sit for 10-20 minutes before carving. When carving, find the oysters and give them to your favorite person or take them as the Cook’s Bounty.

**********************

Again, this explanation is quite long because I included lots of detail. If you do it even one time, you'll realize it's incredibly easy and intuitive and doesn't take much time at all.

Godspeed!

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - Getting hot under the collar and in the kitchen and on the pool table and...

Organized, in each category, with ones I'm enjoying most at the top.

Aug 2024 Week 3

Ongoing Series - Thai

Monster Next Door (Thai Thurs Gaga ) eps 3-4 of 12 - one of the things I'm enjoying about this show is the fact that the introverted super shy uke is having hot fantasies, and the extroverted seme is having the sweet fantasies. It's another way this show is highlighting God being the world's greenest flagged seme BL has ever produced. (And he's being given stiff competition this year - trend alert.)

Anygay: God is so cute and so not cool and so in love and all the consent asking word salad coming out of this boy. I LOVE him. 

Diew: It’s ep 4 so I’ve decided we can talk face-to-face.  God: So how many children do you want? 

The teaching him to play basketball bit, where God politely asks to hold his hand, is so freaking adorable I can’t.

I'm thinking of calling this show the anti-Mame pill.

Blue pill? Red pill? GREEN pill!

My Love Mix-Up Th (Fri YT) ep 11 of 12 - We gotta talk. I do like this version, but it’s starting to feel lackluster. Perhaps it always was by comparison to the bright sparkle uniqueness of the original. Perhaps I didn't notice because I was distracted by G4. But now I gotta say it's become a bit disappointing and even my love for G4 can’t seem to bind me to this. Frankly, this show is making me want to watch either the Japanese version, or My School President. It’s never a good sign when a currently airing BL makes me want to stop that and go rewatch an old one I’ve already seen.

NO SINGING.

Meanwhile, the "locked on the rooftop" trope! I haven’t seen that one in years. Cool. Also cute kisses. They learning. 

This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans (Fri iQIYI) ep 7 of 8 - I can’t believe this is ending next week. But also I can. And I have thoughts.

I really love SailubPon. They might be one of my favorite newer pairs on the scene right now. But I just don’t believe in these characters or this couple. I don’t feel like they are going to have a lasting relationship. It feels like they’re just using each other for sex and distraction, and that’s how the script to set it up, and as a result they’re never gonna make it as a couple. As soon as the sexual fire between them burns out, what do they have to build a relationship on? Frankly? That would be fine if this were a modern love drama, and not a BL. But this IS a BL.

Putting the health code violators aside, I really do believe in the secondary pair, but they haven’t been given enough bandwidth to develop as a couple. There’s no way they’re going to adequately resolve Methas and JJ in the final episode.

At this juncture, I’m mostly finding this show annoying. Which in itself is annoying, because I wanted to love it.

Why is it that Thailand, the land of the best food in the world, king of BLs, struggles so hard to produce the restaurant set BL of my dreams? I’m really pissed about this.

That said, the Methas & JJ stuff is killer. Loved JJ running away. So good. Plus the age old decision - love or money? 

Battle of the Writers (Sun YT) ep 2-3 of 12 - The issue was me and I've managed to get hold of this show again. The story within the story is so ridiculously badly written I'm going spare. I’m not sure if the outside show is not ALSO badly written. That said, I do love how the 3 writer friends are all shipping our leads. It’s VERY silly. Meanwhile, cohabitation trope is a go. 

I like the side couple too. Stern Daddy + lost puppy is a very cute dynamic, I hope we get more than just crumbs. I actually am enjoying this show now. Ep 3 kinda derailed into this weird chimera novel that they’re all writing together and I’m finding that bit the least interesting, but I adore the domestic components which I think may turn out to be TutorYim's strength (if they're allowed to lean into it). 

Addicted Heroin (Thai Tues WeTV) ep 1 of 10 - Man I hope this gets some kind of distribution at some point. It was a pain to find and watch. But I enjoyed it. The focus is more on the seme in Thailand’s version. Which I don’t mind since that's rare in BL, and it’s more August on my screen. It’s all round softer than China’s version but still feels very familiar. I know some fans are struggling with it, but not me.

Sunset X Vibes (Sat iQIYI) ep 10 of 12 - I like that Sam’s crafty business espionage has paid off. Them teasing Sam & Yo really had me belly laughing. It was so funny.

Legitimate question. Would one put perfume on one’s cheeks in Thailand, as one does on wrist or sternum? Because of the sniff cheek thing? Scented face powders?

I do feel like with MosBank & SailubPon scorching up our screens, we’re being spoiled by some of Thailand‘s best high heat pairs at the moment.

I Saw You in My Dream (Weds Gaga) ep 5 of 12 - It remains kind of sweet and cute. It's also calm and slow moving. Oddly it reminds me of La Cuisine in its style and execution (if not content). I’m enjoying it more than I thought I would.

The Trainee (Sun YouTube) ep 7 of 12 - I don’t know. I’m getting bored.

Love Sea (Sun iQIYI) ep 10fin - Fort’s acting during the break-up was truly great. But I feel for Rak. It’s rough to learn that someone else is playing a long game with feelings while you were playing a short game with d**k.

Ultimately this is probably a solid 8/10 show but I’m mad I wasn’t madder at it, and I'm mad I was so bored throughout. So it gets a 7/10 and let us not speak of this again. I’d like to simply forget about it. Trash watch.

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

Sugar Dog Life (Japan Sun grey) ep 1-2 of 10 - OMG a uni student who looks young and a... COP! GAH. The subversion and kink of it all. I had to go grey to get it and I hate everything about what I had to do. But ya know what? Fucking worth every single repeated crash-causing advertisement.

I love it. The grumpy lonely little student cook and the cheerful mature police officer. What a fabulous dynamic. Is the cook looking for a boyfriend or a Daddy, and do we care if it has the same result? It is filmed VERY manga style camp. I’m a little nervous about that, but this means it’s also very fluffy and so damn sweet. It made me squeak with the cute. I’m gutted this didn’t get distribution.

Ironic that Tawada Hideya is in a new BL while Sunspot is re-airing.

Cosmetic Playlover (Japan Tues Gaga) eps 3-4 of 8 - Ah, the gays are doubting the bisexual again. How familiar. I like how this one is paced and moving through time, even if the relationship seems to be going comparatively slowly by contrast. I love the way Sahashi is always looking at Natsume, even when they’re in conversation with someone else. Ah yearning. I think the conflict was kind of inevitable, given the two personalities of the protagonists, and I like that. (No manufactured angst here.) But I still hope they can repair the breach and I’m still interested. Frankly this is so classically Japan - I don’t know what story beats it’s following and I’m not entirely sure where it’s going, but I kinda like that unpredictability. Makes me think it could go into "must you, Japan?" territory but fingers crossed.

I Hear the Sunspot AKA Hidamari ga Kikoeru (Japan Weds Gaga) ep 9 of 10 - I'm enjoying it very much. I could do without the girl character. I know she’s more interesting than most (this is Japan after all), but she’s not really for me. It’s the complexity of the connection between the leads (and why they like each other) that’s being executed so brilliantly in this show (and in the manga, FYI). Both actors are so on point with their roles and the nuanced emotions required of these characters that every time it’s only them interacting I'm riveted. I could do without the rest of the cast tho.

Seoul Blues (Korea Fri? YouTube) ep 1 of 8 - I have a confession to make, I’ve been watching this whole series as it goes along. But this is the pair I absolutely like the most. I’m not sure I would necessarily recommend any of the installments, and I’m not sure how this one is going to go, but I’m VERY invested in this particular couple. They are so pretty!!!! This is a true friends-to-lovers struggle. I like that a lot. (Reminds me of I Cannot Reach You but a different dynamic.) Did I mention how pretty they are? And we already know they gonna kiss well. I bet the uncut version is stellar.

Meet You at the Blossom (China) - It's no one's funeral, turns out! Reports are in - not only are there kisses but it ends happily with wedding plans. So I'm eating crow, binging the fucker, and live blogging. I'm enjoying it. Ya'll know I adored Chinese BL before censorship. It has a certain unhinged quality I very much apreciate (and is the reason I'm so tolerant of the Thai pulps) that I think will marry well with Wuxia's effervescent and ever-present tropes. Watch me suffer here.

First Note Of Love (Taiwan Mon Gaga) eps 1-2 of 12 - About a singer with stage fright and his timid fan starring Charles (H4 the puppy one) and Michael Chang (the youngster in My Tooth Your Love), plus side couple featuring a Thai actor Jame (Koh in Gen Y) and Liu Min Ting (of Guardian fame). What a damn team. With their powers combined they are...

fine.

This is a fine BL. The fight scene was fun and I like the meet cute. I’m not sure about the chemistry of the leads, but I think they’ll probably do okay. I admit I’m struggling a bit with a singing and the music. Are you surprised? I think I like it enough, but I’m not wowed.

Takara's Treasure AKA Takara No Vidro (Japan Mon Gaga) ep 7 of 10 - Oh! Out of the blue attack kiss. What IS this show? I don’t get it at all. Bah. I guess they’re dating now. It’s… so odd...

It's airing but...

4 Minutes (Thai Netflix/Grey) - A rich boy at uni suddenly gains the supernatural power to see four minutes into the future. I have a source, but I've decided to hold off and binge if it ends okay, since it's only 8 eps. I depend upon y'all to tell me if it's safe.

8/16 The Last Time (Thai Fri YT) ? eps - Convoluted story of loss and possible reincarnation or something. Again delayed? Not sure what's going on with this one but the continued push-backs do not bode well.

In case you missed it

The Time of Fever AKA Unintentional Love Story 2 (Korea movie) trailer IS COMING IN SEPTEMBER!!!! (Yeah this is gonna sit here until then).

Next Week Looks Like This:

Upcoming BLs for 2024 are listed here. This list is not kept updated, so please leave a comment if you know something new or RP with additions.

Still Coming This Month!

8/22 The On1y One (Taiwan Thurs Gaga) 12 eps - announced in 2023 this one has a high school set stepbrothers trope and is reputed to be high heat. From Taiwan! It's made for me. Based on a novel Mou Mou from the Your Name Engraved Herein folks, so it could go dark. Still, I'm very excited.

8/22 The Paradise of Thorns (Thai movie) theater release - Jeff Satur is back but this does not look like a BL (the gay lover's death is the inciting event). More in Goodbye Mother vein. Looks dark and dramatic. He opposite and extremely well known actor Toey Pongsakorn who has never done gay before.

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

WHY IS HE SO FINE?

I truly belly laughed. Sam & Yo did not go in the direction I expected, but this scene alone made me not mind that they curtailed the suffering Sam was rightfully due. (SunsetXVibes)

Tall boyfriend armpit, anyone? (Monster Next Door)

The two extremes of BL in one show (Long Beans indeed).

(Last week)

Streaming services are listed by how I (usually) watch, which is with a USA based IP, and often offset by a day because time zones are a pain.

The tag BLigade: @doorajar @solitaryandwandering @my-rose-tinted-glasses @babymbbatinygirl @babymbbatinygirl @isisanna-blog @mmastertheone @pickletrip @aliceisathome @urikawa-miyuki @tokillamonger @sunflower-positiiivity @rocketturtle4 @blglplus @anythinggoesintheshire @everlightly @renafire @mestizashinrin @bl-bam-beyond @small-dark-and-delicious @saezurumurmurs

Sigh, Tumblr in its infinite wisdom doesn't like too many tags.

[amiserableseriesofevents]

Courage, to make's love known

Read on AO3

Thank you so much @alienoresimagines for your extremely inspiring ask ♥️

“Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them’’

- W. Shakespeare, Twelfth Night

John wakes slowly, rubbing his face on the pillow and blinking a few times, blearily taking in his surroundings before remembering where he is; in the New York apartment where he's going to spend the next six weeks of shows. An apartment paid for him by the company, if he may brag — and oh how much he likes being spoiled for doing exactly what he loves.

A pleasant ache echoes through his body, one of physical exertion in order to perfect his craft, and he stretches, shifting on the mattress until his bones and muscles start singing their soreness. Then he rolls on the side and partakes in his favorite morning activity: staring at his fiancé as he sleeps soundly right beside him.

His movements have not stirred Gale, who's still sleeping with half his face buried in the pillow, blonde hair sticking up in every direction like a messy halo and eyelashes so long and thick they brush against the soft skin of his cheekbones. He has one arm tucked under the pillow and the other one outstretched towards John, fingertips grazing his forearm. John cradles Gale's hand in his and places a soft kiss at the center of its palm, looking at him with a reverence that would surely make him blush if he was awake. He's not, though, and John doesn't find it in his heart to rouse him; they got back pretty late last night after the celebratory Opening Night dinner, and the past few days have been very stressful for both of them, John rehearsing for hours every day and Gale keeping him company in the theatre and going through his lines at the apartment — just like old times.

He's only managed to get a week off from school and today is his fifth day here; two more and he'll have to go back and John will be left alone in the apartment for six more weeks surviving only on video calls and good morning texts — and math puns, obviously.

John's tempted to roll him over in this obnoxiously large bed and wake him up in the best way possible, with hot kisses and a hand between his legs to get to the only thing better than Opening Night celebratory sex — that is The Morning After celebratory sex — but Gale really looks too soft and content to be disturbed. So, John resorts to his second favorite Morning After activity: searching the World Wide Web for opinions and reviews.

He shuffles out of bed, puts on a t-shirt and some pants and walks groggily to the kitchen. Despite living here for a little more than a month he's still not very familiar with the layout and organization of the apartment so it takes him a while to find the coffee maker and to open the right cabinet where Gale put the ground beans when he got there, but then he finally settles on a tall barstool with a steamy cup in hand — with almond milk because Gale got him hooked — and starts browsing.

He finds reviews from some of the major theatre magazines and he's relieved to read that the show was largely appreciated in all his aspects, from the direction to the set design and the costumes. Someone has even pointed out his performance as the highlight of the show, which has him giggle like a serious, professional actor shouldn't do; he can't help it, sometimes when someone tells him that he's good at what he does he still has to pinch himself to be sure that this isn't some years long dream.

When he's satisfied with the professional reviews he moves to the social medias to hear the feedback from the fans; TikToks, tweets, everyone seems to have enjoyed the show. There are even a few pictures he's taken with fans at the stage door, he finds them on Instagram and grins at the captions from his fan pages — he has fan pages, can you believe that?!

It's on Instagram that he finds the most interesting thing, an article that makes him spit out his coffee from its title only.

If you thought John Egan was hot, wait until you see his boyfriend!

Cold sweat gathers at the nape of his neck. The article comes from one of those damned gossip pages filled with paparazzi pics and fake news and that's probably what happened, he thinks trying to reassure himself, they must have taken some pics of him and Curt hugging outside the theatre. It can't be Gale because they're always very careful with their PDA, especially around shows when the paps are more likely out to get him. Yes, that must be it; they're gonna have a laugh about it and all will be fine, he thinks as he opens the link.

He's immediately greeted by a picture of him and Gale kissing outside a restaurant.

Fuck.

They haven't been careful enough, they didn't think the paps would follow them to the small, basically unknown restaurant they'd chosen for the celebration dinner and so they kissed on the sidewalk. Still, the picture is pretty blurry, Gale being barely more than a blond smudge of pixels, he could be anyone.

The relief lasts less than three seconds before he notices that it's the first of a series: there's another blurry kiss, then one or two of himself as he waves to someone inside the restaurant, and finally one of just Gale, clear enough to make out most of his features — his proud smile, the glint in his eyes, the mop of blond hair, the cut of his cheekbones.

Again, fuck.

John belatedly remembers the title of the article, about how hot his boyfriend is. Suddenly, all the worries about the article itself vanish replaced by a simmering anger: how dare people think they can judge Gale? He swears to god, if someone's written on the damn internet that Gale, his Gale, is ugly they're gonna have to deal with John's wrath.

He opens the comments, ready to be properly pissed. What he finds is... surprising.

Who's that??? Where was Egan keeping him???

Despite himself, John snorts. He thinks of Gale teaching algebra to high schoolers while John rehearses on a stage, of him cooking terrible dinners for John to comfort him when he gets home. Home, that's where he's keeping him.

How did Egan manage to bag a guy like that?? 🥵

He laughs less now, frowning, honestly offended by this gratuitous rudeness — Gale would find it amusing though, so he refrains to comment back.

Do they need a third? 😜

John huffs — as if. They've had enough troubles managing a relationship between just the two of them, they're definitely not the sharing type.

Does he like girls too? 🙄

No he definitely doesn't, thank you very much.

OMG HE'S SO HOT

John grins mischievously at this one; yes, his boyfriend is hot, John knows it. He's getting even hotter as he grows older — there's some grey in his blond hair, so pale it's barely noticeable for anyone but John, who doesn't miss a chance to remind him of it bragging about his luscious, still completely brown locks. He's oddly proud that some random Instagram user finds him hot too, he could print out the comment and put it on their fridge for the moments when Gale feels down.

Aw what a nice couple 🥹🥹

Butterflies rouse in John's stomach and he finds himself blushing slightly at this comment, smiling like when someone compliments his acting. They're the two most important things in his life after all, acting and Gale; he's glad someone can see how much in love they are just from some blurry pictures.

Egan needs to have him cast in something!! I need to see that pretty face more often

To this one, John laughs out loud. Yeah, he wants to comment, been there, done that. Unless that guy is interested in minor, local performances, he's not going to see Gale's face on stage any time soon.

He hears a sudden noise from the bedroom, sign that Gale's woken up; the worry comes back, a gnawing sensation in the pit of his stomach. He'll have to show Gale the pictures, that's for sure, but how is he going to react? He's probably gonna be pissed, as he should.

John is going to pressure to have the pictures removed if Gale asks, of course, but by now they've already been seen by hundreds if not thousands of people; this is surely going to freak him out, hugely. He's so private, even the news of their engagement has been kept a secret to everyone who's not close family — John still wears the ring every day just not on his finger, but on a chain around his neck. What if this sudden exposure to the public makes him reconsider it? He's always said he's ok with John being a more public figure than him, but maybe...

No, John thinks shaking his head. He won't go there. They're not who they were at the beginning of their relationship anymore, they've grown together past the part where a single doubt could destroy everything. They're going to talk about it, plently, and decide together what to do.

He pours another cup of coffee and waits for Gale to pad barefoot to the kitchen, yawning ans with his hair all askew — he wonders what his fans would think of him now, as natural as he comes. For John, he's still the most beautiful thing he's ever seen.

"Morning darlin'," Gale drawls. "How are the reviews?"

John smirks, passing him the coffee. "They're good, but the thing that's making the most numbers online this morning is you, love!"

Gale smiles, confused. "Are you practicing your math puns?"

"Come take a look," John simply answers, sliding his phone towards him. Gale picks it up, more confused, and his eyes widen as he takes in the pictures. "Those fuckers!" He says, outraged. "They followed us to the restaurant?"

"Maybe, or maybe one of them was simply passing by and took his chance. Read the comments, come on."

As he reads, Gale blushes in a way John finds utterly adorable. "They think I'm hot?" He asks.

John nods, solemnly. "That you are babe, that you are. Look, I'm gonna cal Lil later, tell her to work her magic to have those removed. She's my agent, that's what I hired her for and I know she's good with this kind of thing."

"Why do you want to remove them?"

It's John's turn to be confused. "Well it's a violation of our privacy, and I though you'd be pretty pissed about them," he says tentatively.

Gale nods, sipping his coffee. "It is a violation and I'm pissed at those paps, they should get a life and not bother ours. But the pictures are out, and by now they must have been seen by anyone. I don't think it would matter to have them removed. Besides, I kinda like the way people talk about us in the comments," he admits, still slightly blushing. "They're not judging, they like us."

"They like you," John points out.

"Yeah, but they also like us as a couple. See? Most comments are about us!"

"And that doesn't bother you?" John asks, perplexed.

"Well, it had to come up sooner or later, didn't it? I would have preferred to have more of a say in how and when, but since it happened..."

"So let me get this straight, you want us to be out in public, on the internet, at the mercy of strangers? Are you sure?"

"Why are you putting it so menacing?"

"Because people will judge — me, you, us. Not everyone will be utterly positive and supportive. I just want you to think carefully about that," John says. He'd have absolutely no problem posting a pic of him and Gale on his official profile right now, but he wants the other man to be sure.

Gale cocks an eyebrow at him. "Not everyone will be utterly positive and supportive, really? Is that not the story of our lives?"

John smirks. "You're right, as usual. So, what do you propose we do? Can I post a picture of us like, right now?"

Gale laughs. "Now, don't rush! Let's talk with Lil first, I'm sure she knows how to deal with a... how are the youngsters calling it nowadays? A hard launch?"

"Hanging out with teenagers is ruining you, Buck! How do you even know such a term?!" John laughs, then pulls Gale closer to hug his waist and nuzzles his face against his fiancé's stomach. "You know, you're incredible: a lifetime together, and you still manage to surprise me," he says, softly.

Gale strokes his hair, humming content. "And I'll keep doing it for the rest of our lives. Now, if you're finished with the reviews and don't have to go out so soon, why don't you come back in our bedroom with me? We haven't celebrated enough this morning, as far as I'm concerned..."

—

A few days later, a picture is posted on John Egan's official Instagram profile. It's a black and white picture of him and another man, one that the fans recognize as the mysterious boyfriend Egan was kissing outside a restaurant in the paparazzi pics that came out a few days ago. The private profile of the other man, one Gale Cleven from Wyoming, theatre aficionado and apparently math teacher, is clearly tagged in the picture.

But the thing that truly sends the fans rioting is the simple, teasing caption:

If you thought John Egan was hot, you should see his fiancé!

[chippedshake]

(An expansion of a moment from this qprpbj fic I wrote a while ago)

Ponyboy smiles when he opens the door and finds Avery on the other side.

"Hi, Aves."

"Hey, grandpa," they say brightly, stepping inside.

Avery takes their backpack off and heads to the bathroom like they do every Tuesday. The twenty-minute walk from school to his house is just long enough for them to need to pee when they get there but not at school.

Ponyboy closes the door and sighs. It's nice to have company once in a while, even if it's just for lunch on Tuesdays. It gets lonely sometimes, when everyone's paired up with kids. Cathy got almost full custody over Katie and Johnny, so he's been alone for a while. Two-Bit and Marcia, Steve and Soda... They never stopped caring about Ponyboy and Darry, but they have other things to do. Married life to attend to.

Shame Darry's out today, he always likes to talk to Avery. Seems like they might be going down the accounting path, and Darry's good for advice on that.

"What's for lunch?" they ask, drying their hands on their skirt.

"I'm tryin' out this new recipe I found online..." Ponyboy takes the aluminum foil off of a pot and looks inside. "It's chili but it's supposed to have some sort of sweet twist? I dunno, the girl explaining it seemed really excited."

"Did you check the reviews like I told you to?"

"Yeah, they all said to use less beans or it would be too dry, so I did."

Avery gives him a wide grin. "Great."

Ponyboy carries the pot over while Avery sets the table.

"How's school been?"

He starts serving Avery a bowl.

"It's been fine. I did a math test today and I made some stupid mistakes — that's enough, thanks — and there was this one formula I forgot that woulda made everything a whole lot easier, but it went okay."

"That's nice." He sets his own bowl down in front of him.

"Actually, grandpa..." Avery trails off and avoids Ponyboy's eyes when he looks at them. "There’s something I need to talk to you about."

Ponyboy looks at them silently, urging them to go on, but they stay quiet.

"Go ahead."

"I'm aromantic. And asexual." They look at him, trying to gauge his reaction. "Aroace for short."

Ponyboy blinks at them once. Twice. "What?"

They give a dry laugh before answering. "Yeah, no, I didn't expect you to know. Aromantic means I don't feel romantic attraction. Asexual means I don't feel sexual attraction."

"Those are different?" The look Avery gives him is the same one he knows he used to give Sodapop whenever he asked him what the movie they just watched was about. "Sorry," he says, suddenly feeling meek.

"No, it's fine," they sigh, "They're kinda new labels, I guess. But yeah, they're different. Mostly people feel them together, but some people feel them differently. I just... don't."

Ponyboy had been about to eat a spoonful of chili, but freezes with the spoon halfway to his mouth.

"You... you can just... not feel it?"

On Ponyboy's first date with Cathy, they went out for dinner, and it felt kinda like going out with Two-Bit. Laughing too much and feeling like he was breaking some sort of rule all the time. It was nice, though.

He kissed her goodnight like he was supposed to, and it felt weird, but it was supposed to feel weird, right? They'd just started to go out.

Then they'd been dating for long enough for it to be expected for them to have sex and he didn't really want to, but Cathy wanted to and they were supposed to and it wasn't that bad, really. Just kinda boring.

"Yeah. I know it sounds really weird, and you might think I just haven't met the right person yet, but think about like, straight people. You know you don't like the same sex and no one ever doubts that, so this is like the same only I don’t like anyone. And it doesn't mean I can't have meaningful relationships or anything — I like my friends a lot, I love them a lot, and Charlie can be nice when he isn't being an annoying little brother, and there's even other types of relationships, like queer-platonic relationships, that aren't for me, but that other aroace people can want—"

"Calm down, Aves," Ponyboy says with a slight grin. He definitely know where they got that from. "I wasn't tryin' to make ya feel like I didn't accept you, I just... didn't totally get it."

"Oh." They're slightly out of breath. "Okay."

There are a couple moments of silence before they go on, "Well, in any case, I find sex and romance disgusting and when people tease me about that sorta thing it makes me uncomfortable. That's all I wanted to tell you."

They smile awkwardly.

Ponyboy feels himself deflate, but tries not to let it show.

"So then aromantic and— and asexual people find it disgusting?" So it's just me? It's just me that's broken, then.

"Oh, no, not at all. I just don’t like it, but there’s people who are fine with it. Some people even enjoy it."

"Oh." Not broken not broken not broken not broken "And can, uh... can anyone be– aromantic? And asexual?"

They look at him curiously, eyes flitting across his face to try and figure out what he's thinking. A flicker of understanding — and something like hope — crosses over their face before they settle back into a neutral expression.

"Well, yeah. Not anyone that feels sexual or romantic attraction, obviously, but, like, there's aroace people of all ages with all sorts of romantic and sexual histories and they're still aroace."

"Oh."

"Yeah."

The rest of lunch is spent in near silence. Every so often one of them asks a question and the other answers, but conversation never lasts more than a couple seconds. The silence festers around them, Avery looking around uncomfortably, Ponyboy trying to force himself to be comfortable. Ponyboy's washing the dishes while Avery cleans up the table when there's the sound of a key jiggling and the door opens, showing Darry standing behind it. His face lights up when he catches sight of Avery.

"Aves! I didn't miss you!"

"Uncle Darry!" He sets his bag down next to him a takes his shoes off.

"How'd your math test go?"

Avery's face scruches up. "I forgot about the tangent squared identity and had to deduce it from the sine squared plus cosine squared one."

Darry makes a similar face and clicks his tongue as he walks over. "Did it go well besides that?"

"Yeah." He goes to ruffle their hair but remembers the last time they complained about it and grabs their shoulder instead.

Avery checks their phone. "Oh shii— shoot. I'm late. Gotta run back now."

They slip their shoes on quickly and run out the door.

"Have fun!" Darry calls, and a muffled "I'll try!" makes it back through the door.

Darry looks at the closed door for a second, easy smile on his lips. "Seems like slamming the door's genetic," he mutters.

He wanders into the kitchen and stops dead in his tracks. The water's running over dirty dishes but Ponyboy's leaned against the opposite counter, scrolling down something on his computer.

He has the same look on his face that he had a couple days after his seventeenth birthday, when he came up to Darry and told him quietly that he was older than Johnny would ever be.

"Pony?"

Ponyboy looks up, blinking quickly, not bothering to try and close the tab.

"Hmm?" His voice is unnaturally high-pitched. The eye contact only lasts a couple second before he looks away, back at the screen.

Darry walks towards him slowly. "Everything okay?" He turns the tap off when he passes by it.

Ponyboy's staring holes into his computer. He can't look away, can't look away from the words that've been there all along. The words he didn't see fifty-something years ago — oh, god, he can't even remember how long it's been.

The computer's being taken away from him.

"Pony." Ponyboy looks up to meet Darry's eyes. "What's wrong."

"The— the words are there." He's on the verge of tears and he knows that Darry can tell with the pitch of his words, but he can't control it.

"What words, Pony?"

"A— aromantic. And asexual. And queer-platonic." Darry just stares at him, clearly in as much confusion as Ponyboy was a couple minutes ago. "You don't have to wanna date people. And sex. And Johnny—"

Ponyboy doesn't finish the sentence.

"What about Johnny?" Darry seems confused, and Ponyboy realises that he thinks he's talking about his son.

"Cade."

"Oh."

"We weren't friends. I always knew we weren't friends, I knew it was different, because I ain't never felt that way again."

Darry blinks. "You're saying you're... gay?"

Ponyboy shakes his head and he can feel the tears tickle as they roll down his cheek but it would be wrong to brush them away.

"It don't— It don't gotta be like that. You don't gotta choose between bein' friends or datin', those aren't the only options. And it— it's real." He buries his face in his hands. Darry wraps his arms around him and Ponyboy stoops down to burrow his head in Darry's shoulder. "I know it— it doesn't change anythin', that we were the same thing, that we were— were queer-platonic even if the word didn't exist but I wish it did.

"I wish it did because then maybe it wouldn't be so—" He can't go on.

Maybe it's because there's no words to describe what it means to find out what something was when it's so far in the past you no longer remember, but remember remembering. Maybe it's because the pain he'd buried so deep he almost forgot about it comes back in full force. Maybe it's because he's sobbing so hard the words can't come out.

And that's how it ends.

It doesn't end with "stay gold" and it doesn't end with his English theme. It doesn't end with a roadtrip to the sea so they can spread his ashes and it doesn't end when he's twenty and unhappily married.

It ends sixty years too late. It ends with something as irrelevant as a pair of words. It ends with closure. Closure that comes far too late, but eventually comes.

[outofthemouthsof]

My QL Year in Review (part 2)

This was my first full year as a BL/GL watcher, so I wanted to do a wrap up of 2024 from my POV!

I watched 131 shows all the way through (many of them shorts) and abandoned 13, so my total attempted was 144.

Of those, 74 were from previous years (some of them very old as I caught up on the history of BL. So I’ll only focus on ones that ended in 2024, 70 in all.

I started with my “bottom 50” (which I didn’t tag because why would I when they’re not rave reviews? But they’re there if you’re curious.) But now is the fun part—my top 20!

I rate shows in 9 categories of adjectives but I tried to assign them letter grades so it’s easier to see what I mean. Oh and they’re not ranked within each grade category, just chronological by when I finished them.

All my top 20 shows were in three categories—one that I invented this year because two shows were so incredible they broke my ratings system. It was an amazing year for me, needless to say!

PERFECTION++ (A+)

These two series could not be more different. One made me feel like I was floating on a perfectly delightful fluffy cloud. The other was gritty and full of pain and frustration, but it still enveloped me so I felt like I was dreaming the whole time. Both give me butterflies just thinking about them.

1. Cherry Magic (Thai)

2. Jack & Joker: U Steal My Heart!

Perfection (A)

These were completely captivating in every way and I wouldn’t change a thing about them.

3. Pit Babe

4. Wandee Goodday

5. Century of Love

6. Monster Next Door

Amazing (A-)

These were potentially perfect shows marred by dropping the ball somewhere, or flawed shows elevated by some incredible elements. Either way, they weren’t perfect but there was something exceptional about them.

7. Last Twilight

8. The Sign

9. AntiReset

10. Deep Night

11. Unknown

12. Blue Boys

13. We Are

14. The Rebound

15. Meet You at the Blossom

16. This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans

17. 4 Minutes

18. My Stand-In

19. The On1y One

20. Every You, Every Me

(Jack & Joker gif from @chinzhilla )

(Cherry Magic Thailand gif from @namchyoon )

[miss0atae]

15 Day BL Challenge 2024 (PART 1):

Okay so I don't have 15 days until the end of the year (It took a very long time to convince myself to do this challenge) so I will just do 5 days of them in the same post until it's done. I had a pretty rough days lately so I want to find a little joy in writing these posts. Thanks to @negrowhat for this challenge.

1 - Fave OG Actors Pairing:

My first OG actresses pairing is Aom Sushar and Tina Suppanad. They played in the movie Yes or No and it was my first QL movie. It had a profound impact on me at the time I watched it. So I would say they hold a special place in my heart.

The second OG actors pairing I like is Off Jumpol and Gun Atthaphan. I discovered them in Not Me and this series is so dear to me that it made me want to watch every other series they stared/ would star in.

A special mention to Krist Singto because I discovered them pretty late (this year) and I love how well they work together.

2 - Fave Rookie Actor Pairing:

So many choices possible here, I will say the first pairing that comes to my mind is Marc Natarit and Poon Mitpakdee. I love their dynamic in We Are, but they made me fall in love with their pairing in Perfect 10 Liners. I can't wait to see them again together in A Dog and A Plane.

The second pairing that I think of is Sailub Hemmawich and Pon Thanapon. It's probably thanks to their role in Pit Babe that I like them. I also had a fun time watching them in This Love Doesn't Have Long Beans, and I really want to know how they are going to portray Alan and Jeff again in the upcoming Pite Babe 2.

A special mention to Billy Babe , Li Le Wang Yunkai and Big Park.

3 - Side dish That should have been the main course:

I have nothing against Force Book and their portrayals of Arm and Arc, but I will give this to Pond and Sand. They were the sweetest and I didn't have enough of them in the first arc of Perfect 10 Liners.

A special mention to JJ and Methas in TLDHLB. They didn't get enough screen time (probably because the series may have needed two or three episodes more).

4 - Fave ship dynamic :

Probably because it's too close to home, but I would say Affectionate x Touch-Starved. I always love to see a character who needed love/affection finally getting what he was always looking for. This is the most beautiful thing to me.

A special mention to Toxic Dumpster Fire and no further explanation for this choice.

5 - Biggest Flop:

I'm pretty indulgent towards QL stories (and stories in general) because there is always something that keeps me watching the end of it, but this year I had two biggest flops in mind.

The first one is Love Is Like a Cat. It was a nightmare and I can't even remember the end of the series. All I remember is how stupid everything appeared to me. Don't let me talk about how I hate this idea that one character goes in another country, can't speak the language and fall in love with someone who also doesn't speak his language. It's not working for me. I couldn't suspend judgment concerning the implausibility of the narrative.

The second one is, unfortunately, 1000 years. I wanted to like this show so much. You have no idea how ready I was to love this show... but it never clicked with me and I was really frustrated because it seemed like many people here found something in this series. I read the reviews, I kept watching it, but it didn't work... I found no appeal to the series and I stopped watching it on episode 11. I only read about the end of the series right here.

[marvel-starwarsfangirl]

Ep. 13 "Into the Breach" Review

This was another fantastic episode that packs so much into its 25 minute runtime. Seriously, the finale better be like an hour. I feel like there's so much we have to address, yet so little time. My faith in you doesn't waver Jennifer; you've guided us through thick and thin. I will say that Rampart is surprisingly a really fun character to revisit and I enjoy watching him interact with the Batch. This man doesn't learn, but he's funny now so I give him kudos for entertainment purposes. I loved the dark atmosphere as the finale draws nearer and near. This is the end of the Bad Batch. We know it and they know it.

As usual, spoilers below:

MAMA ECHO RETURNS!!! After so long, he graces us with his appearance and he serves. I loved everything from his action sequences to his sass. Watching him sneak around the Imperial ship, rolling off of crates and working his magic was awesome to watch. That's why he's the Arc Trooper. And boy was he funny too. If it were possible, Rampart would've definitely be set on fire. Between being told he was being demoted to being denied the title of "sir," Rampart was demolished by Echo. It's just so good to see Echo again. I love him so much for his kind heart, quips, and awesome action sequences. The writers delivered!

Rampart, Rampart, Rampart... what will we do with you? He certainly hasn't changed and probably never will. But honestly, I kinda hope he doesn't. Sometimes, people are just aholes who do the right things for the wrong reasons. Rampart provides an interesting moral perspective. And he's still hot. Seeing him cleaned up in the uniform didn't help either. I'm a simple woman guys. He's also hilarious and I love it. Rampart's ego is so big that he unintentionally comes across as whiny and comical. Going forward, I seriously wonder what they'll do with him because he's going to Tantiss. Will he get dropped off? Sell the Batch out? Die in the battle that is to come? Next week will tell. I'm glad he was brought back though. He did his job as a villain well. Now, we get to see him in different situations and it's fun.

Omega, my sweet bean, hang in there. This episode does so well in establishing just how much she's grown over the past few seasons. Omega's always been resourceful and clever. Seeing her scheme to escape the Vault was exciting. You can also see the influence her brothers, particularly Hunter, have had on her. Omega's become more confident and mature. She's a leader in every sense of the word. The other kids look to her for guidance as she plans an escape. I also want to give the other kids a huge hug; I can't imagine what it must be like for them. It's one of the darkest things we've ever seen in Star Wars. Also, Emerie and Scalder rivalry definitely is gonna end with Emerie's true motivations being discovered. Scalder's not gonna let her allow Omega to slip away.

And seeing the boys strip their armor of all their color... that was legitimately heartbreaking to watch. I see it as a symbol of finality. There is no going back once they get to Tantiss. Hunter's "negative" just cements that. The last 5 minutes of the episode were so tense as the boys hitched a ride. As a my discord friend put it, "all roads lead to Tantiss."

There were a lot of smaller moments I enjoyed too. Wrecker was pretty funny this episode. Crosshair and Hunter voicing their trust in Echo was sweet. It furthers just how much the Batch truly trust and know each other. It's that implicit trust that makes me love their dynamic so much.

Anyways, that's all for now. We're truly in the endgame guys. After so long, we've finally made it to Tantiss. All that's left is to get Omega, the children, and escape which is so much easier said than done. I'm so scared yet excited for what's to come. See y'all next week!