#Venus is my favorite country guys

[aleebeesplats]

Auhsbsnjsm shnan

I’m alibe

My pookiest they are keeping me alive in school

Last one is kinda old

Sorry for the inactivity. I’ve been swamped with school and tests. I’m trying to find time to draw TSP or IHNMAIMS but I’ve honestly got no motivation. I’ve been doodling these two a lot though, they make me a bit giddy. I’ll try to get back into fandom work but for now I’ll just dump out OC stuff

[pubbamoon]

Venus signs and your music taste

Hey! Hope you're doing well. This is going to be the first (and maybe last, haha) post about astrology, 'cause I've been into that thing for five years, I guess. Since I'm interested in music, my first astrology observation will be about how someone's Venus sign can affect someone's music taste. It's also a Friday, a Venus-ruled day. So, let's go!? This is based on the tropical/western astrology. Take it as it resonates and leave what doesn't.

Venus in Aries: Oh well, that's the wild one! People with this Venus may love listening to kind of music which makes them confident, or you should use the music this way. Aries naturally rules over the 1st house of self and personality, so you guys with Aries Venus might listen to the song/music which resonates to your character or describes your life path. On the other hand, you may love energetic and bold type of music that can move you, something like EDM or Dance music!? Venus is in detriment in Aries, which is not a good sign in default. That means you might love type of music that is not well perceived by the music critics. You may also love rap/hip-hop music as well.

Venus in Taurus: Venus is in domicile in Taurus, which means that Venus is in own sing since it naturally rules over Taurus sign (and the 2nd house as well). This is a great sign for Venus to be in, music literally runs in your blood (take it as it resonates). You may love the type of music that grounds you and makes you peaceful. You can also prefer quality over quantity and listen to the songs that has some value or quality. Overall, you might love listening to music that is perceived as normal, stable or even predictable. Taurus is an earth sign, after all. Venus in Gemini: This sign rules the 3rd house of communication, words and self-expression, so you might prefer the lyrics when it comes to music. It doesn't have to be the case with all of you with Gemini Venus, but it can be (lol, what was that?). You may love to listen to the music that is relatable to you and your life circumstances. Your favorite artists could be singer-songwriters, who put their own lyrics first and who express themself freely. You can also listen to the different kind of music, since Gemini is the mutable sign, represented by the twins, which makes Gemini a dual sign. Your music taste is really versatile with this placement.

Venus in Cancer: You may love emotional type of music that gives you some kind of comfort. Cancer rules the 4th house of comfort and emotions, which makes sense. Moon is the natural ruler of Cancer and is associated with the homeland, which means that when it comes to music, you might listen to traditional or even patriarchal type of music that is related to you birth land/country or you love listening to the songs where your homeland is celebrated. Your favorite music genre could be folk, country or any other music genre that relates to your culture. Finally, you may love music that sounds familiar or nostalgic and this could mean listening to the retro music from the older times.

Venus in Leo: Similar with the Aries Venus, you may love listening to the music that boosts your confidence. Since Leo rules over the 5th house of creativity and hobbies, you don't like to be told what to listen to and don't rely on trends. You might also like romantic type of music, 'cause 5th house is associated with romance and short-term relationships. Your music playlist could be filled with a lot of shiny and bright songs that give you joy.

Venus in Virgo: I can sense that you are so picky while choosing the songs for playlists or while listening to the music in general. You may seek for perfection in every part of the song, the perfect lyrics, perfect instrumentals, perfect production etc. I feel like you always read the reviews written by music critics before choosing to listening anything, 'cause you're all so skeptical and suspicious. Venus is debilitated/in fall in Virgo, which means that Virgo is the worst sign possible for Venus. This basically correlates everything that I said about this placement.

Venus in Libra: Another domiciled position for Venus, which is great. Libra is a people-oriented sign and it rules over the 7th house of partnerships, marriage and long-term relationships, so you may love listening to songs with this type of themes. You might also like love songs or collaborations. It can be hard sometimes to choose what's your favorite artist, 'cause it seems to me that you may like both or every artist the same way, which makes sense since Libra is all about balancing things in our life.

Venus in Scorpio: First of all, it feels that you're pretty passionate about music. Second of all, you may like intense, dark type of music and your favorite artist is likely who can express raw emotions. You possibly hide your music playlist on Spotify (or on any other platforms) because of shame or you just don't want people to see you music taste. The themes of songs you may like to hear in songs are mostly breakups, criminal, transformations etc. You may listen to music to heal your wounds too. You may also feel like you rise like a Phoenix when you listen to the music.

Venus in Sagittarius: This placement tells me that you may possibly like optimistic type of music which is made for parties. The songs you listen to might be translucent or airy which make you want to dance or jump. The songs you like could also have deep meaning, since Sagittarius and 9th house are associated with philosophies, knowledge and wisdom. You may like music with a good atmosphere or which can make you feel good. This is such a funny and adventurous placement, love that.

Venus in Capricorn: It seems to me that you might have a serious approach when it comes to music. You may like quality, elegant, or even classical music (this won't apply for everyone). You don't mind when a particular song lasts more than five minutes, you even like to listen to long songs, 'cause Saturn represents longevity. By saying that, you like to listen to the music that ages like fine wine. Maybe you like to read reviews before listening to song or album. I have this placement in my tropical natal chart and I check the reviews out before listening to the whole body of work, haha lol.

Venus in Aquarius: Hmm, I think there's two sides of this placement. The first ones with this placement love to listen to experimental and eccentric type of music. When it comes to music, they like to stand out from the crowd and listen to something what is considered weird by societal norms. Aquarius sign always reminds me of the hippie culture from the 1960s. The second ones having this placements are one of the basic people out there, they listen to something that everyone listens to and they don't mind following the trends. Mind you that Aquarius rules the 11th house of the collective, masses of people, so it's not unusual for Aquarius Venus people to listen to something that is mainstream.

Venus in Pisces: Venus is exalted in Pisces, which means that Venus functions well here. Pisces rules over the 12th house of foreign culture, something hidden, and it's also associated with oceans. This tells me that you may like more listening to the music that comes from the different land or culture than yours. You can use music to heal yourself or to process your deep emotions. Similar with Scorpio Venus, you may also hide your music playlist from everyone else, 'cause you value privacy when it comes to the thing you love. This placement can indicate great taste of music or listening to the bunch of artists who aren't mainstream or who express their emotions.

That is everything I have to write. Hope you like this observation of mine. Make sure to care about yourself and do something you love to do. It's Friday, the Venus-ruled day after all.

Best regards,

Paky McGee

[damiianismwayne]

damian: what did you draw

dick: a dog and he's bored.

dick: what did you draw?

damian: a stick.

dick: a stick?

damian: a stick from the park WHERE YOU PROMISED TO TAKE ME TODAY

dick: name a country beginning with V :)

jason: venezuela!

tim: vinland-

dick: huh??

jason: vinland?

tim: vinland

jason: OH MY DAYS! LOW IT! DONT CHAT TO ME! YOU SAID WHAT-

tim: i said vinland...

jason: VINLAND?!

jason: YOURE ON SOME JOKE TING

tim: he said F blud!

jason: whatchu said-

dick: 'V'!

jason: V.

tim: venus!

jason and dick:

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

dick: fuck you. I HOPE YOUR WHOLE FAMILY HAS A NICE CHRISTMAS.

jason: i'm sorry, but i just cant support the existence of white people. thats not right.

damian: oh really? whats that.

tim:

jason: an exception.

damian: would you... still... love me.. if i was ga-

bruce: hm? if what?

damian: no that was the question-

dick: what did you get tim for his birthday?

jason: i got him a kitten.

dick: really?! me too!

stephanie: i also got him a cat!

duke: looks like we had the same idea!

jason: duke, please... tell me you didnt get tim a cat as well..

bruce: i got him... a kitten.

tim with the 5 cats around his room: THIS IS THE BEST BIRTHDAY EVER

dick: i'm also dressed, and- i made BREAKFAST.

dick: wait, where are my eggs-

damian: in my belly.

tim: why do you have a jojo siwa backpack?

damian: why are you such a fucking bitch.

tim: jesus fuck...

criminal running away from batman:

tim: look at this guy runnin.

tim: tf you runnin for?

tim: somebody chasin' u or something??

tim: ...

tim: OH FUCK WE CHASIN HIM-

damian: sis is this you right here in this alley?

jason: sister if you see a bitch in the alleyway with a dome-shaped red helmet over his head that is NOT me. GO. THE. OTHER. WAY.

joker as red hood:

damian: who is thissss-

dick: those are my favorite roast potatoes :)

jason: ill have you know...

jason: dick grayson.

jason: that those are actually MY favorite roast potatoes.

jason: so ill let ya off easy this time, dick grayson.

jason: with just this lil warnin.

jason: they cant be both our favorites, now, can they?

batman: what the-

terry: im batman. i need you to come with me

batman: who the heck are you?

terry: i just told you- listen. im from the future.

batman: how dare you point at me?

terry: you were pointing first

batman: rude to point.

terry: YOU ARE BEING VERY RUDE YOURE NOT EVEN FROM-

dick: which one pointed first?

damian: batman pointed first! obviously!

terry: YOURE POINTING AT ME RIGHT NOW!

batman: youre pointing.

terry: LOOK AT YOUR FINGER. LOOK AT YOUR FINGER RIGHT NOW-

batman: its different from normal pointing.

terry: YOURE ACCUSING ME OF POINTING WHY-

jason: alr important question for our friendship. when you go to the movie theatre do you ask for extra butter or regular butter? or no butter?

dick: i put skittles. not skittles- m&ms with the popcorn

jason: alr im gonna remove richard from this call-

dick: HOLD ON PLEA-

jason: something devilish has been brewing within me for years on end that will only escape through the means of physical violence.

[taylor-on-your-dash]

Sparks Fly is officially 18 years old: history of a song that was almost lost & how fans saved it from being left in the vault

The night of Halloween 2006, a 16-year-old girl named Taylor Swift had just released her first album. To promote her music, she'd go wherever venues would call her to perform. On October 31st, it was Portland, Oregon's turn, where Taylor opened for Jake Owen in a bar called Duke's. Owen, a country singer who also debuted in 2006, was 25 at the time.

We can safely assume that Taylor was happy to meet Jake, as she wrote this on MySpace right after:

"Happy Halloween :-) Current mood: happy Happy Halloween! I’m sitting at the airport in Portland, Oregon.. About to get on a red-eye flight (Oh yes, I just said red-eye. Meaning, all night. This should be interesting…) to Toronto, Canada for another weekend of Rascal Flatts shows. Tonight was awesome. It was a show in Portland at a bar called Duke’s, I opened up for Jake Owen. And a little back-story, I’ve had his album on repeat for the past couple of months.. It’s an amazing album and I literally cannot stop listening to it. I’ve got every line memorized, and if you see me on a plane.. Chances are, I’m listening to some song off that album, at a volume level that’s probably going to cause long-term hearing damage someday. ANYWAY. I got to walk in on his sound check and meet him. Turns out he’s extremely cool, and had bought my album on iTunes. :-) And since I had to leave after one song of his set, he played my favorite song “8 Second Ride” first. Which is another reason why he’s awesome. And just to let everyone know, YES, I did dress up for Halloween. Yes, I stood onstage in an angel costume with huge wings (that really conflicted with my guitar playing). And I convinced my two guitar players Todd and Kevin to put on those little headbands with the devil ears attached. Haha. Oh yeah, it was great. It’s so awesome playing to a crowd and seeing some people who know the words to EVERY SONG! I love that the album is out, and I love that y'all are listening to it. You guys are so awesome, and I really appreciate all of your comments. I love you all so much. Thanks for everything."

The day Speak Now was announced, a known fan at the time revealed said that the song was written on November 2, 2006, so a couple of day after the Portland show.

The most incredible news is that "Sparks Fly" is going to be put on the album. That song is so incredible. Taylor wrote it on November 2, 2006, performed it live in Oroville on May 30, 2007, and now it is finally being released on October 25, 2010. Definitely a dream come true for Taylor fans worldwide! (X)

So on November 2, 2006 Taylor finished the first of the three known versions of a song called Sparks Fly. The first handwritten draft was showcased in a museum:

On April 6, 2007, Taylor premiered the song in her native Reading, Pennsylvania, and then sang it again on May 30th in Sacramento, CA. This version was recorded by the same fan that revelead the writing date and uploaded online, gaining traction among the fanbase.

This live features a very prominent banjo and different lyrics:

“You stand there in front of me” -> “you stood there in front of me”

“Get me with those brown eyes, baby” -> “get me with those green eyes, baby”

“Take your open hand and take me out” -> “reach out open-handed and lead me out”

“Dim the paper lanterns” -> “don’t need more paper lanterns”

“This night is the 31st” -> “my heart is beating fast”

“So let’s make it count now, baby” -> “I could wait patiently”

“I’ll run my fingers” -> “I run my fingers”

“And make no borderlines” -> “gonna strike this match tonight”

“Forgive me when I can’t take in everything you are” -> “and lead me up the staircase”

“You kissed me like you meant it, I swear I saw sparks” -> “I’d love to hate it, but you make it like a firework show”

There was also an additional section: We stood at the gate (and you kiss me) / With the moon on your face / And you’ll kiss me

In December 2007, People Magazine releases a special photoshoot for Taylor's 18th birthday, which features photos of her bedroom, including the infamous Mirror Tracklist, a very early tracklist for her then-unnamed sophomore album. The tracklist inlcudes Sparks Fly as the 6th track.

As we know, Sparks Fly ended up being dropped from Fearless and shelved. We actually don't know whether the song was recorded or not, although some sources say that it was, but ended up being excluded in favour of The Way I Loved You.

Throughout the Fearless era, the fans didn't forget about the live version of Sparks Fly. On June 13th, after Taylor premiered the song Mine, Taylor hosted a 13-hour meet & greet, where one of the most asked questions was what happened to Sparks Fly:

“'Sparks Fly' is a song I wrote a few years ago and played in concert. You guys have learned it and I think like it, which makes me really happy. When we did the 13-hour Meet and Greet at the CMA Fest, there was a comment I got over and over again. You guys were saying, 'So what about 'Sparks Fly?' Is it going to be on the next record? [...] I played that song at maybe one or two shows, and you guys just jumped on it and really made it something that I had to put on the album because you really showed interest in it.”

That week Taylor finished Speak Now, completing the last song (The Story Of Us) on the 16th, but taking into consideration what the fans had asked her, she went back to Sparks Fly, changing the lyrics one last time, especially the second verse:

First verse: You say my name for the first time, baby, and I fall in love in an empty bar -> You’re the kind of reckless that should send me runnin’, but I kinda know that I won’t get far.

Second verse: So reach out open-handed and lead me out to that floor / I don’t need more paper lanterns / Take me down, baby / Bring on the movie score / ‘Cause my heart is beating fast and you are beautiful / And I could wait patiently, but I really wish you would... -> My mind forgets to remind me you’re a bad idea / You touch me once and it’s really somethin’ / You find I’m even better than you imagined I would be / I’m on my guard for the rest of the world / But with you, I know it’s no good / And I could wait patiently, but I really wish you would…

Bridge: Just keep your beautiful eyes on me / Gonna strike this match tonight / And lead me up the staircase / Won't you whisper soft and slow / I’d love to hate it, but you make it like a firework show -> Just keep on keepin’ your eyes on me, it’s just wrong enough to make it feel right / And lead me up the staircase / Won't you whisper soft and slow / I'm captivated by you, baby I’m captivated by you baby, like a fireworks show.

I think that the line "I'm on my guard from the rest of the world" from Sparks Fly being written after "And you figure out why I'm guarded" from Mine is very telling of what Taylor was going through in her personal life.

Once the album was out, the secret code hidden in the song lyrics spelled: “Portland, OR”. The secret message seemed to confirm the theories that had followed the song all summer.

In July 2023, Jake Owen commented on being the ispiration behind the song: “It’s a great song and the speculation has always been funny to me. I’m sure Taylor probably laughs at it all too, but I’m happy to even have my name in the discussion around it. She’s an amazing girl and an amazing artist. It’s been incredible to see how she’s grown as a musician and what a global phenomenon she’s become.”

To me, Sparks Fly is a signature song of hers. Classic Swift story telling, sprinkled with teenage dreams in an euphoric rock production. It's really cool to see how fans played a fundamental role to save this song from oblivion. Can you imagine our reaction if we had got this song in the Fearless Vault or the Speak Now Vault?

[sailorsenshishitposter]

Aoi Todo x Reader

Minor spoilers for chapter 260

Aoi Todo:

You are a gym bro, your favorite song is baby got back and you have several cease and desist letters from various celebrities that you stalk.

First Date:

You were listening to your Takada playlist whilst you did your workout but you heard a noise so loud that it began to overpower your ear buds. You took them out only to realise that another fight broke out. You weren't surprised, after all, testosterone fueled men frequently argued over just about anything. You looked over to see what the fuss was all about. Oh. It's one of the regulars and a particularly annoying one at that. It looks like he was fighting with a new guy. "Why does he look like a gorrila?"

You began to listen to their argument while working out thanks to the wonders of multitasking. "DO YOU EVEN LIFT BRO!?" Not again, you thought. What happened next caught you off guard.

"What's your type?"

"My what!?"

"Type of woman! Now answer my question or I'll beat you to death where you stand!"

You guessed that he wasn't pleased with the answer because the next thing you knew, the other man was punched so hard in the face that he hit the wall and left an indent.

"A person's fetishes reflect everything about them. People with boring taste in women are boring people themselves. And I hate boring men!" He began to walk away and then stopped. "By the way, my type is a tall woman with a big ass!" Shit. You did your best to try and shrink down but it was too late. "My, what is such a cute woman as yourself doing in a place like this?"

You rolled your eyes. "I'm working out, idiot!" You expected him to go away but he seemed amused. "Men are perfect when they're a little dumb." Ugh. "And who exactly said this?" He began to grin and was about to respond when your phone cut him off. Fuck, it was your ringtone. Why now of all times? You looked at the gorrila man and saw that his face was flushed. "Is that Takada chan's new song, jumping?"

The next thing you knew, he was crying and and on his knees. "Please marry me!" You didn't figure this guy to be so into idols. "I don't even know you, pervert!"

"My name is Aoi Todo. Would you lend me your hand in marriage?" Gross. "Ew, no!"

"Will you at least come with me to see Takada's next appearance?" You groaned. "If I do, will you leave me the hell alone after this!?"

Todo then gave you a thumbs up. "I shall stop pursuing you if that is what my BEST FRIEND wishes." What the fuck had you gotten yourself into?

It was a week later and you both met outside the concert venue. "What the hell happened to you?" Todo looked down to his bandaged arm. "Oh, this? Don't worry bro. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to woo Takada chan but then I remembered that even the great Helen Keller completed her mission with a missing limb!"

"... That's not Helen Keller Todo..."

"Wait, it's not? Then who ran across the country with just one leg!?"

"... Terry Fox."

"I don't have time to talk about foxes, we're going to miss Takada!" Todo then pulled your arm and dashed to the crowd. "Shit. The stadiums full. Looks like we'll be watching at the back!" Todo went to adjust his bandages. "I think I have a solution." Next thing you knew and you were transported to the front row. "What did you just do?"

"Don't worry about it." That didn't satisfy you so you grabbed his arm and nearly screamed. "WHAT THE HELL IS THAT!?" Instead of a hand, there was now a giant wooden instrument. "Ah, that would be my vibraslap." You pulled him down by his uniform collar. "WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!?""Don't worry #####, we as true Takada fans are the exception.""You can't just cheat and skip ahead of everyone! What if we get caught!?"

"The Jetavana Temple Bells ring the passing of all things. Twinned sal trees, white in full flower, declare the great man's ceratin fall. The arrogant do not lotng endure: they are like a dream one night in spring. The bold and brave perish in the end: they are dust before the wind".

You were about to ask him what the fuck he meant but then the lights dimmed. "Hello, everyone! Thank you so much for coming! Taka-Tam beam!" The crowd began to cheer and you could have sworn that Todo had invited you to a boy band performing for teenage girls. As Takada began performing, you heard a "BOOGIE WOOGIE" emit from the crowd.

You didn't know how he did it but Todo was now dancing on stage. The music stopped and Takada was calling for security but he didn't care. He decided to sing in an attempt to court her. "I LIKE BIG BUTTS AND I CANNOT LIE, YOU OTHER BROTHERS CAN'T DENY-" He was then cut off and dragged away by Takada's personal swat team. It turns out that Todo isn't legally allowed to be within 500 feet of her.

Todo was being cuffed and placed in the back seat of an officer's vehicle. "TAKADA CHAN, I'LL WAIT FOR YOU!"

[tomorrowusa]

MAGA is really just a variant of fascism. The racist anti-Latino orgy of ethno-nationalism at MSG on Sunday has removed all doubt.

Dean Obeidallah at SubStack walks us through it.

Here is a sample of the hate buffet served up to the cheering MAGA crowd. 1.        Anti-women: Donald Trump again called VP Harris a "very low IQ individual." Tucker Carlson said to cheers if Harris wins she will be “the first Samoan, Malaysian, low IQ former California prosecutor ever to be elected president.”  Grant Cardone, a businessman said VP Harris and “her pimp handlers will destroy our country,” obviously suggesting Harris is a  prostitute. -David Rem a person the campaign identified as a childhood friend of Trump, brandished a crucifix and called Vice President Kamala Harris “the antichrist” and “the devil” to huge applause. 2.        Anti-Black: -The rally played Confederate favorite “Dixie” before Black GOP Rep. Byron Donalds came out at Madison Square Garden. -“This cool Black guy with the thing on his head, what is that a lampshade? Believe this guy? Just kidding, that’s one of my buddies. He had a Halloween party last night. We had fun, we carved watermelons together,” said podcaster and alleged comedian Tony Hinchcliffe. 3.        Anti-Latino and anti-Migrant hate: -Referring to Latino migrants, radio host Sid Rosenberg declared to cheers that they are causing crime and that: “The fucking illegals, they get whatever they want, don’t they?!” -“I don’t know if you guys know this, but there’s literally a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean right now. I think it’s called Puerto Rico,” said Tony Hinchcliffe. -“These Latinos, they love making babies. Let’s know that they do. They do. There’s no pulling out. They cum inside. Just like they did to our country!’ again Hinchcliffe. 4.        Anti-Arab/Palestinian hate: -Rudy Giuliani declared: "The Palestinians are taught to kill us at two-years old. There may have good people. I'm sorry I don't take a risk with people who are taught to kill Americans at two." He then declared to big cheers, “I’m on the side of Israel…Donald Trump is on the side of Israel.” 5. Anti-Semitism: -“You also know the Jews having a hard time throwing out that paper, you know what I’m saying?’ Hinchcliffe stated while mimicking holding money, playing on anti-Semitic trope that Jews are cheap. Before this MAGA event, some invoked the hate-filled February 20, 1939 Nazi rally at MSG billed as a "Pro American Rally" which featured a huge image of George Washington in between swastikas. After Sunday’s Trump rally, that comparison was no longer speculative, it was 100% accurate.

Yes, they even played "Dixie" – the Confederate anthem.

This event was held at a large venue in America's media capital with the intent of exposing as many Americans as possible to their message. They are not trying to hide anything. They want to make sure every last nutcake hears their words.

As David Frum via Charlie Sykes on SubStack observed:

This rally seems aimed at the crucial bloc of swing voters who like Donald Trump but worry that maybe he's not quite stupid and obnoxious enough. They need him and his team to squeeze out of the tube that one last plop of stupidity and obnoxiousness.

The stupidest thing for us to do is to freak out. Michael Tomasky wrote an excellent piece in The New Republic.

If You’re Being Fatalistic or Panicking, You Are Helping Donald Trump

It's way easier to prevent dictators than it is to get rid of them once they're here. So quit doomscrolling and do stuff in real life to save a whole lot of work in the future.

Volunteer | Kamala Harris for President

[youngveinsworld]

the young veins interview at the beat kitchen in chicago, 10 april 2010

Ryan, Andy and Nick M of the Young Veins interviewed by Natalie Kuchik for the Estrella Online blog, 10 April 2010:

Can you please state your name and what you do in the band? Ryan: My name is Ryan Ross and I am the James Dean of the group. Andy: I am Andy Soukal and I play the thumping bass. Slapping the bass. Nick: My name is Nick Murray and I play the drums.

The first tour as The Young Veins, how has it been going and what’s the crowd reaction been like? Ryan: Seems like it is getting better and better. Nick: The tour seems to be picking up steam. Ryan: More and more people are coming I feel like than the first shows, so that’s really nice. Andy: We have such a diverse line-up. We have a hip-hop band, a crazy Freddie Mercury style band and then a throw back band and the crowd has been really receptive to all of it.

How did you guys get on this tour with Foxy Shazam? Ryan: We are managed by the same people. It was kind of tough to get on a tour when you don’t have any music out or any records, so I think they did us a favor. Or maybe we are doing them a favor.

What is it like going back to more smaller intimate venues? Ryan: It is more interesting every night, you never know what you are going to walk into. Some of these stages are, I question the craftsmanship in a lot of these clubs because I can’t figure out what they were thinking but it makes it a lot of fun. Being so close to the crowd again, I forgot how that was and it makes the show have more energy I think.

Do these venue sizes make you guys more hands on? Do you go out and sign merch afterwords? Ryan: Yeah, pretty much every night. If you need to come see me, I am petty much around. It has been really nice to actually be able to talk to the kids it has been awhile since that has been possible. Nick: Especially, since we don’t have any music out or released we are building a really close relationship with what fan-base we do have is really important. Being as close as possible, building friendships and meeting people around the country is good.

What kind of comments are you guys getting from fans? Andy: It ranges all over the place. Ryan: Yeah, where do we begin. Well, I guess about the music it has been cool to have kids say, “I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this or not”, “I’ve only heard two songs but I’m really excited about the album now.” Then sometimes they ask if they can marry me. Nick: The best feeling in the world is to have people that did not come for our band and like our band and tell us that after the show. Especially, since no one has any pretense of what to expect. If they did like it, that is a really good feeling, it is the best feeling in the world. Ryan: It really feels like we are up there trying to win people over, it is challenging.

When this tour ends, what are your plans after? Ryan: More touring, we are going to do Bonnaroo. Then we are trying to route a tour around that so we will be touring in June and then the album comes out June 8th.

The first single is “Change” why did you go with that one? Nick: Seemed logical. Ryan: Yeah, I don’t know. I feel like that album is all over the place and so many songs sound different. I can’t say it represents the album best but it is one of the more upbeat heavier songs. I think live it is a lot of fun to do. Andy: We also did a lot of market research.

Did you really? Because people do that. Ryan: We polled people at the movies.

On your upcoming album Take a Vacation! all the songs are three minutes or less, was that planned or did it just happen? Ryan: No, I don’t know. I guess something switched in Jon and my songwriting and I guess we just trimmed the fat and cut out parts we didn’t need. It is going to kind of make it hard to do a headlining tour. A lot of our favorite records are really short. I mean, there are so many early Elvis songs that are under two minutes long it is really crazy. It wasn’t a conscious thing it is just the style of music we write is shorter, I don’t know for what reason.

The album comes out June 8th, are you planning on streaming it online for free before it comes out, or any other promotions? Ryan: We are sort of putting together some sort of marketing plan but that is not really my strong point, so the label is always coming up with stuff like that. We are doing something pretty cool where if you buy the vinyl you’ll get the CD for free. We are doing these really neat pre-order packages where we are doing these view master things from when you were a kid. We are doing a box set thing where you get one of those with pictures of the band and we did a couple of photo shoots for them. Stuff that is fun for us to do.

Did your label come up with those ideas or was it your guys? Ryan: That was ours. Nick: We really liked the idea of having a view master. Ryan: We were talking about it months ago. Nick: We just didn’t think it was a possibility. Ryan: The label has been really great about letting us do these crazy things already.

What about the vacation photo contest, was that your idea? Ryan: That was their idea, which I really liked because I have been meeting the kids every night and they are really excited about it. There is really nothing we have to do, it is just a great way to have people come for free.

When you (Ryan) were in Panic! at the Disco you wrote a lot of the songs, would you ever do one of those songs live again? Ryan: I don’t know, I sang a couple of the songs so I guess those would be the only ones I would do. I haven’t really thought about it to be honest with you. Andy: It is a different style so it kind of clashes a little bit. I am not super familiar with everything but if there are a couple of songs similar to our style sure it would be considered but otherwise, it would just clash with what we are doing.

I know your sound is so different, when did you feel the shift from Panic! at the Disco to The Young Veins sound? Ryan: The stuff that I was writing, like half this album (Take a Vacation!) with Jon would have been for the Panic! record anyway. It wasn’t a shift really except for when we quit, I guess it allowed us to do even more than we wanted. Maybe half this stuff we actually already knew [that] there would be no chance it would be for Panic! so we went wild with it. It wasn’t a conscious shift ever in our songwriting, it just kept evolving.

When you parted ways did you know your former band members would keep using the Panic! At the Disco name? Ryan: No, I didn’t think that they would keep the name. It was a little bit shocking when I heard about them doing these tours and stuff without us. I figured doing your own thing meant doing your own thing.

What is a song you never get sick of hearing? Andy: “Wounded” by The Cookies. No one is going to know what that is so you don’t have to write that down, but I am going to throw that out there. Ryan: Reason why? Andy: Reason why, well it’s an old song and it’s just really unique and clever. The vocal melody are just so challenging, and that stuff in today’s music is not accessible at all. You don’t find stuff like that. Ryan: You got one Nick? Nick: I just thought of one, umm… Ryan: The one that I keep listening to recently is the song “The Windmills of Your Mind”, the Dusty Springfield version. I think we might cover that song in the future but it is constantly on repeat for me. Nick: It is kind of an obvious one but “Waterloo Sunset” is still one of my favorite songs of all time which is by The Kinks. I’ve never gotten sick of listening to that song. Ryan: Yeah, that’s one of mine. Nick: I have probably heard it fifteen thousand times and it’s never gotten old. Andy: Also “No Scrubs” by TLC, that one never gets old. We sing that one in the van a lot.

Think you would ever cover that song? Andy: I hope.

You are going to need some filler songs when you headline. Andy: Yeah (laughs).

What is something you have always wanted to do but have not done yet? Nick: Shoot a feature film. Ryan: Shoot a feature film star. Andy: I would like to be in Nick’s feature film.

Seriously, are you into movies? Andy: Especially Die Hard. Nick: Yeah, I definitely want to make one though within the next year or so. Ryan: I don’t know, I am sorry I don’t have a good answer for this one. Nick: I don’t even want that to be the answer though, I want something crazier. Ryan: I know I am not really funny today, I am a little bit upset at myself actually.

You guys are young, there has to be something! Ryan: I have done it all (everyone laughs). I want to learn how to ride a motorcycle.

Do you own one yet? Ryan: No, but wouldn’t that be funny?

Well, some people buy frivolous stuff they don’t use. Ryan: Yeah, I have thought about it. Me and Jon were going to buy motorcycles when I still lived in Vegas and we were going to drive up into the mountains until we realized what a bad idea that was. I still would like to because I used to live near the PCH in California, so I always thought it would be fun to drive a motorcycle up and down the coast.

If you could see any band or artist perform any song live, what would it be and why? Andy: These questions are so hard. Ryan: They’re so good though. Andy: Bon Jovi. I agree! No, I’m just joking. Ryan: Can you travel back in time and see the group when they were young?

Yeah, any line up, any song. Ryan: I might want to see The Kinks do “You Really Got Me” like in 1965 or something. Nick: “I Was A Teenage Werewolf” by The Cramps.

Any particular reason why? Nick: Yeah, I’m a really big Cramps fan and Lux died last year, so I never got to see them. Andy: Can I just say, every song that Gentle Giant has ever done.

Just an entire concert, any reason why? Andy: That is such a bad answer. They are just really wacky and they are just this weird band from the 70s that never made it anywhere but was really cool. Ryan: I can’t understand why.

You (Ryan Ross) received a backlash when you left Panic! At the Disco, did you expect that? Ryan: No, but I guess…

Did you have to learn to roll with it? Ryan: Yeah, I mean it was already bad enough without that having to happen to. I guess, when people don’t understand the reasons why it’s easy to get mad at the person you don’t know for something you think they did. It’s weird how some of the fans took it personally. I wish they would understand, this is our life and we have to do what is best for us.

You have to play the music that you want to play. Nick: People grow up. Ryan: It seems to be passing a little bit. Some people are coming around and saying, maybe it wasn’t the smartest train of thought I was on a couple of months ago. I don’t know, I mean obviously if I was a young kid, a teenager and my favorite band broke up I would be a little bit upset too.

Estrella: Do you guys have any final comments? Andy: No, that was my two cents. Ryan: Do you want to comment on it? (laughs) Andy: No, that about covers it. Ryan: Cool, thanks.

[anthemofgvf]

Behind Closed Doors: Jake Kiszka x Reader Fanfiction Series

Part One

description: when your best friend asks for a favor, that being having his twin move in with you, you're hesitant. you've never really liked him, but you are struggling to meet your rent, so you oblige. who knew with time that you would become more upset with his presence, or upset with the fact you have underlying feelings for him that you don't want to face?

-the masterlist for this series-

trope: enemies to lovers x roommates au!

warnings for this series: alcohol and tobacco usage, explicit content (18+, minors dni), angst, swearing

word count: 6.4k+

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

You had grown accustomed to living alone in your apartment. After your previous roommate moved out to live with her fiancé and letting your name alone fall under the lease, it was considerably harder to meet rent. You had begun overworking yourself to scrabble just enough money to pay your landlord, phone bills - you name it, but it was leaving you feeling fatigue.

With your time off of work when it was granted to you, though, instead of catching up on sleep, you chose to meet with Josh, who was your best friend. You had met him at a small venue that had a multitude of bands performing a mix of country and rock music, and you both bonded over your gratitude for music. You later found out that he had just moved there, along with his twin, who had sought for a new surrounding for his music career. Josh, on the other hand, was a semi-successful short film director who had the opportunity to move out to Nashville for his job. You two clicked instantly, and he insisted on you meeting his brother, to which you were excited over.

But when you met Jake, your enthusiasm about him faltered. Although him and Josh had similar qualities besides their physique, he was much more egocentric. He had held himself on a pedestal, boasting about his life and all his accomplishments, which you grew bored of quickly. You didn't want to have the connotation that he only cared about himself, but your mind couldn't stop you from thinking that.

After spending more time with the twins when you had free time on your hands, you had realized how much Jake bothered you. Sure, at first, he was a stunning individual, but the aggravating part of that was that he knew how handsome of a guy he was and flaunted it. Never asking you many questions unless he was trying to flirt with you, or shooting a snarky remark that only made you roll your eyes. Hate is a strong word, but you strongly disliked his company.

So, you told Josh about your preference, that meaning you didn't want Jake hanging around anymore. He irritated you, and as much as Josh loved his brother, he was very understanding and cut the hangouts with the three of you to a small minimum, then none at all.

You and Josh chose a nearby coffee house, which you worked at, that sat in the middle of both of your guys' apartments to meet at weekly if you were able to. It was mainly for catching up and chatting about numerous things, but sometimes it was just to get out of your apartment and spend some quality time with him. As much of a workaholic you became, it was nice to take a break every so often. And you adored Josh, so seeing him was like a reward after a long week.

You had taken a seat outside on the small patio in a black metal chair after you were served a white mug filled with coffee, waiting for Josh to arrive in front of you. After a few moments, you turned your head to hear his cheerful greeting with a wave, and his other hand occupying a cup of green tea.

He walked over to your side, pulling you into a side hug before sitting across from you and sitting down with a sigh.

"Lovely day out, isn't it?" He threw his hand up while his curls flew with his motions, looking around the sky before meeting your eyes.

"My favorite season has always been fall. Perfect temperature, y'know?" You agreed with him.

He nodded with a hum. "A shame you don't get to experience it as much with how often you work though." He shrugged.

"Some of us aren't as lucky as you to have a high-paying job. Getting sick and tired of the routine."

Josh took a sip from his brown cup, setting it down with his lips pressed together into a smile. "I mean, there's always a solution to end your 'suffering'. Getting a new job, perhaps. Or finding a roommate to help you pay the bills."

"I make pretty good money here - the tips are great," you assure him, "but I don't know how long I can go on doing this. Have considered moving out and downsizing to a smaller place." You looked into the store, bustling with customers you were thankful you didn't have to deal with this day. "But finding a roommate isn't a bad idea. Hell, I've got an empty room collecting dust. Just don't know how to go about finding one."

"Was hoping you'd ask that." He drummed his hands on the table. You set your white, porcelain mug onto the table after he finished the rhythm he set on the round table and looking to him with a confused look.

"You know someone that's looking for a place to stay?" You leaned close to him with your voice brought close to a whisper.

"I do, in fact," he began, "and you know him." His lips curled into a coy smirk, wiggling his eyebrows at you.

You squinted your eyes. "Him? What, is Jake looking for a place?" You chuckled.

Josh shrugged at you with his smile growing wider, and you immediately tried shooting him down. Before you could speak, he cut you off.

"Look, I know how you feel about him, but it would take out the awkward stage of getting to know someone new. And I think he's doing alright on booking shows, so he's ready to move out. Think if he was good on his own though, he would've found his own place by now, but I don't know." He gave you a shrug.

"Move out? Wait, where is he staying now?" You crossed your arms.

"Well, he was going through a rough period and got kicked out of his apartment. Needed somewhere to stay until he got back onto his feet, so I told him he could crash at my place until he could fund himself. And I don't know how he's exactly doing with money, but I know he's making it, and I don't think he'd mind your company. Besides, I think he should upgrade to a room of his own instead of my living room."

You shook your head. "I think I'll take a shot at looking for a roommate that isn't a pretentious dick. Post something on Facebook or one of those websites that are made for people looking for roommates."

He grabbed your hand into his. "You'd be doing a huge favor for me, and I could find a way to make it up to you somehow. I know you're just barely meeting rent, and I think Jake is a good option. Might even help you get over how you feel about him."

You sighed, relaxing your shoulders as you thumbed the back of his hand. "I don't really know how being stuck in a confined space with someone you don't like helps making you feel better towards them. I can only imagine it becoming worse."

"Why don't you just think about it? Give it some thought, get back to me, and then give me a final answer. I'll even help him move in, stop by often to make sure there's no tension. It would take a huge weight off your shoulders with how much you work, y/n. You can sit here and say you don't mind working double shifts nearly every day, but you seem to have permanent eye bags."

You removed your hand from his and swatted his shoulder, causing him to chuckle and put his hands up in defense, then reserving them to wrap around his cup.

"Well, I mean there's other places for him to stay, right? Like, he could move back in with your guys' parents."

"He's too prideful for that." He shook his head. "I know he isn't your only option, but he's probably the quickest way to fix your problem. Think about it for a few days, alright?"

You pressed your lips together as you sharply inhaled. The immediate answer was a hard no, but to give Josh some peace of mind, you obliged. "Fine. I'll think about it. But that doesn't mean it's a yes. Don't get too excited."

He nodded with a smile dancing on his lips, taking a sip from his tea and letting the conversation end in the air.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

With it being a week since your conversation with Josh, you had posted on almost every site you could find in search of a roommate. You were becoming desperate, impatient with the time it was taking for a response. You weren't going to choose your seemingly only option, which was served on a bitter, silver platter in front of you. You had hope that someone would answer your posts, since you had chosen about five websites, so you tried to clear your mind of it. Thankfully, work was a great way to keep your focus away from everything else, so you hadn't put much thought into Jake moving in with you.

But, when you had time to think about it, your immediate thought was an absolute no. Surely your apartment would feel cramped with his large ego making a home in it, so there was no way you'd ponder on the idea any longer. The only thing that had you second-guessing your decision was Josh, who said it would be doing a huge favor for him. It was hard to say no to Josh, especially with his infectious smile and sly ways of convincing you into something. It was a blessing and a curse, but in the long run, everything worked out when you said yes to him.

So, what was the main reason why you didn't want Jake to move in with you? Sure, yours and his's interactions weren't the best, along with his first impression leaving you feeling quite uncertain about him. But truly, you were unsure why you didn't like him besides that.

When you walked into work the next day, you figured a second opinion would do you justice on the situation at hand. Your coworker, Stacie, who was the first person you befriended at your job, was about the only person who had worked as much as you. So, seeing her as often as you did, you and her became extremely close overtime.

"I just don't know, Stace," you scrubbed the inside of a mug as you stood next to her at the front counter, "Jake just isn't the kind of person I want living with me. He drives me fucking nuts."

She huffed a laugh. "Why do you let him bother you? He doesn't seem too harmless."

"Of course, you say that. You haven't had the 'honor' of meeting him." You rolled your eyes. "It gets annoying after a while, y'know, setting himself on a high horse and boasting about his lively life. He's just so full of himself that it boils my skin."

"What's the worst that could happen? You and him quarrel a bit, but you both eventually get over it. So what? I mean, you'll probably barely see him with how much you work."

You shrugged with an eyeroll. "Just don't want to narrow my options down to one person just yet." You set the clean mug under the counter and sighed deeply, placing your palms flat on the counter and looking to her.

"Can I be honest with you?" She asked. You gave her a nod, and she continued. "I think you don't want him to move in with you because you're scared that he's actually not as bad as you've put him out to be. You don't want to realize that there's a good possibility you're going about this all wrong."

You pressed your lips tightly together. "I've had plenty of interactions with him to know who he is. If he truly isn't as egotistical as he acts in public, then you can tell me you told me so. How about that?"

"So, you're going to let him move in with you?" Her lips curled into a grin.

"I haven't made up my mind yet, Stace," you shot her down quickly, "but, if another week passes and I still have no one interested in being my roommate, then I might as well call it quits." You shrugged.

"I'll keep asking around for you," she winked at you, "however, I don't think he's a bad option. He's a musician, right?"

"Claims to be. I've never actually seen him perform, though. All I know is that he plays guitar and can sing from what Josh has told me, and Jake going on and on about how many people want to sign him."

She rolled her eyes with a light giggle. "Well, you'll have to let me know how truly talented he is once you hear it. Or, better yet, have him perform here."

She motioned her hand over to the small stage across from the both of you, that sat in the back middle of the shop. It was used as an open-mic stage on Friday's and Saturday's, but usually only had one or two acts consisting of musicians and comedians.

"I'm never giving him that opportunity. If work is my only escape from him, then I'm keeping it that way." You crossed your hands over one another.

"Sounds like you want him to move in with you." She kept her pleased smile on her face as she teased you.

"I wouldn't count on it!" You said in a sing-song tone, turning away from her and beginning to clean another mug.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

After work that night, you stared up at your ceiling, flat on your back, in thought. When your apartment was filled with silent air, only accessing your mind to fill with your roommate situation, you were left thinking about Jake. Different outcomes of the living arrangement flooded your brain, and you couldn't put them to rest. What if he truly wasn't as bad as you put him out to be, just as Stacie said? What if he was a genuine person who only put on a facade in public?

You decided to call Josh in slight frustration, waiting only a few moments as the phone rang for him to pick up.

"Speaking." Josh said.

"Hey," you sighed, "have time to talk?"

"Is this a talk-on-the-phone situation, or do I need to drive over?" He asked.

"I don't have a preference," you took a breath, squeezing your eyes shut, "it's about Jake."

"First time I think you've called me about him in a long time," he chuckled, "what's up? Have a final decision on the matter?"

You shook your head as you relaxed your eyes open. "I'm unsure. I talked with Stacie about it, and she tells me it's a good idea, but..."

"You think you're going to regret it?"

"Yeah, yeah I do," you huffed a laugh, "she gave me the idea that I am going about this all wrong and to just give it a shot, despite what I think."

"Meaning you think he's a 'pretentious dick', as you like to refer to him as?" Josh spoke.

"I guess. I mean, you know him better than I do. And I want full honesty when I ask this, but is he really that cocky all the time?"

Josh hesitated for a moment before he began. "Well, there's a short and a long answer to this. The short answer is no. The long one is that it's complicated."

"Care to explain?" You asked him.

"You know how when you meet someone, sometimes you try so hard to make a good first impression that you come across as vain? Yeah, well, he tends to do that. He's not particularly mean, nor as self-absorbed as he likes to pretend. Although, he is a bit arrogant at times, that's only really in a public setting. In a more intimate one such as a home, he's a great guy. I wouldn't set you up for failure if I knew it wasn't a good idea."

"Define great guy. Because that term has a lot of meaning behind it."

Josh chuckled into the phone. "Okay, uh, well, he's a kind person. Very caring, affectionate. He's got an interesting personality on him. Like, once you truly get to know him, he's quite funny. His humor is very similar to mine, but he doesn't like to show it off as much. I'd consider him a bit more reserved in that way. He's the kind of person that'll go to the ends of the earth when you need him to, the kind of person that would be there for you at a drop of a hat. It's hard to believe he's that way, from your experiences with him, but as I've known him a bit longer than you, you've just got to take my word for it."

You began to pick at the bottom hem of your shorts, watching your fingers twist the material in your fingertips. "Maybe I'm just overthinking too much."

"Yeah, and maybe worried that you're going to be miserable. I'm not going to lie to you, it'll take some time to warm up to him, but you'll be golden once he finally lets his guard down."

"I guess." You shrugged. That's all you could say to him, because frankly, you didn't know what else to follow that up with. You had too many questions that you could've bombarded him with, and despite knowing that Josh would answer everything, you just chose to flatly answer back to him.

"He likes you, y'know." Josh mentioned to you shyly.

You released a boastful laugh, tilting your head back into your pillow. "Yeah, right. He likes the idea of me. Think the only thing he wants from me is the thing he wants from most girls."

"Who knows, but I don't know, I'm just his brother who he tells everything to." He sighed dramatically. "What, are you afraid that you might have feelings for him, too?"

"Not a chance," you continued your light laughter, "sure, he's an attractive individual, but he's not my type at all."

"Well, I predict that your mind will change with time. Perhaps, you know, him moving in with you and the both of you creating a bond... It's a perfect story line, in my opinion."

"One that would work out in one of your films?" You flicked your eyes towards your phone. "Yeah, not this story, Josh. Don't expect me to cave in just yet."

"You're a tough one to crack, I'll hand it to you. But you should know Kiszka's are quite persistent."

"I certainly know you are with how much you text me asking me if I've made my mind up yet." You shook your head and relaxed your fidgeting hand on your lower stomach.

"And there's your proof," he said, "it's getting a bit late now. As much as I'd love to talk to you all night long, I've got to get up extra early in the morning. Duty calls!"

You giggled and said your goodbyes to him. Your phone was placed flat on the bed next to you, and your eyes reserved back to the ceiling above you. With a deep breath, you repeated the conversation in your head. You trusted Josh with everything, so why should you not about Jake? Maybe he was right about him, and you were just oblivious to his true character.

Whatever the matter was, you were bored with the thought of it all. You were exhausted from your double shift earlier, and sleep was what you needed most. After a quick check for notifications on your post and finding nothing, you put your mind at slight ease and called it a night.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

Why do I let him bother me so much? you thought. What was the true reason, deep down that had pulled you away from letting him move in with you?

You pondered the reason at work, since it was one of your slower days, so you had unfortunate time on your hands to dedicate to your thoughts to Jake.

Other than just getting on your nerves, there was no real reason why him moving in would be a terrible idea. You had no concept of what kind of person he would be at home, or how well he kept himself.

With all this time on your hands, you realized that you were letting your anger about your original impression on Jake get the best of you. You had never experienced him without any surrounding factors such as a bar or at Josh's house. You hadn't had a moment with Jake where you two were alone, or where he wasn't acting in his true character. As someone who had the potential to be optimistic, and trusting in Josh's words, you forced yourself to believe that Jake had yet to show his true colors.

On your break at work, you checked your posts for any texts about potential roommates. And you were left with your final decision, which you couldn't say you were jumping for joy at but were a bit relieved you had it situated.

"Josh?" You said into the phone after he picked up.

"Everything okay? I'm a bit-."

You took in a sharp inhale, squeezing your eyes shut with slight aggravation. "I've decided that I'm okay with it. Jake can move in with me."

"Wow, alright! I'll let him know. When do you want to him to be at your apartment with his stuff?"

"I guess as soon as possible. I've got rent coming up shortly, and a few other bills, so having him help me pay those will give me a good idea on how good of a roommate he will be."

"Fair enough," he said, "how about in two days? Think I can swing by for some 'moral support' and help keep everything a bit more civil. Will you be off?"

"I think I'll be able to take it off. Don't worry, I'll be there with all the paperwork for him. No way he's entering my apartment when I'm not there."

He chuckled into the phone. "Understandable. Alright, well, we'll be there. Say, in the afternoon? I can text you when we're on our way."

"That sounds good, thanks," you said, "I'll see you then."

You exchanged your goodbyes, and you exhaled a deep breath that felt like a wave of relaxation had washed over your body. You had work to worry about, rather than be upset that you had settled for Jake moving in. So, you cut your break short, and decided to put your mind on that instead.

The unfortunate part of this was having your heart banging against your chest at your seemingly spontaneous decision. How long had it been since you've seen him? A few months? You were sure that he hadn't changed in that short period of time, but all you could do was hope. There was no point in feeling annoyed with yourself and your choices, living in regret. Besides, he hadn't even unpacked his stuff into your apartment, or signed anything to make things official. As much as you were ready to already back out of your decision with your overthinking mind, you had already notified Josh, so there was no point to disappoint him.

But when the day had come that it was time for Jake to arrive at your apartment, you made sure you woke up extra early to clean your place high and low in order to set high expectations for him. You had already made your rules for him up in your mind and prepared to lay down on him. If you were going to let him live with you, you two had to be on the same page about things.

While you were lost in thought, you noticed that Josh had texted you that him and Jake were on their way. You took a deep breath, tapping your foot rapidly against the bottom of your stool and resting your cheek in your palm.

You had set the papers you received from your landlord flat on your small kitchen island, losing your sight as you stared at them. Seemingly dissociating for a moment while you sat there. This was a large change in your everyday life, and one that you didn't expect to happen any time soon. Out of all people, it was Jake who would be living in the room right next to yours, which was split by a bathroom. Too close to each other, you thought. Even a closed bedroom door would make you feel cramped by his presence.

The call box rang, and you immediately shot your eyes up to the noise and stood up with shaky legs. You answered it, hearing Josh's voice, and allowed him to enter the building. Your hands grew clammy with nervousness. Wiping them on the backs of your jeans, you stood close to the door and listened for their footsteps of arrival.

When you heard a knock at your door, you opened it immediately and saw Josh standing alone, empty-handed, with a small smile plastered on his face. He was wearing his normal attire, a white long sleeve shirt and brown khaki shorts.

"Hey," you crossed your arms, "where's Jake? And all of his stuff?"

"He wanted a tour first." He explained, then stepping into your apartment.

"What, is he unsure about moving in and my place?" You said with scrunched brows. This was off to a rough start, and you could feel your skin becoming hot. This was frustrating for you enough, and for him to make it a bit more difficult by extending the period of him settling in was just the icing on the bitter cake.

"No, he-."

"I just want the lay of the land before I bring my stuff in. Is that so bad?" Jake entered the room, throwing his hands off to his sides with a cocky grin.

You took a moment to examine him, what he was wearing, how he appeared. He had a flannel of red, blue, and green on with a white t-shirt underneath. Wearing black ripped jeans and black shoes to match, it was his casual attire that you hadn't been familiar with. It caught you off guard slightly to see an alternative appearance of him, but nonetheless, you weren't excited to see him in any way or light.

"Jake." You said as you stood up straight.

He nodded at you. "Y/n. Been a long time, hasn't it?"

"Not long enough." You shrugged.

"Alright," Josh clasped his hands together, "care to show him around?"

You flicked your eyes to Josh with a light sigh. "Yeah, sorry." You gave one more look to Jake, giving him a tight-lipped smile, and began your short tour.

You spoke minimally, showing him the kitchen that laid behind the three of you. Then, the living room that sat across from the kitchen, the short hallway that housed the bathroom and your bedroom, along with his.

You didn't enter your room, but you did allow him to look around his new room. He was quiet, just like his brother, walking around it and pressing his hand flat on the bed and pushing onto it. He nodded satisfactorily, then looked up to you with a smile.

"Is your room up to par, Jake?" Josh said to him.

"I could get used to it." He said to him.

After you left the bedroom, Josh let you know they'd be back with Jake's boxes. You offered to help, but they insisted that they had it under control.

Watching them walk in and out with Jake's items, it hit you harder that he was now living with you. You chose to set yourself against the wall outside of Jake's new bedroom, seeing them pass in and out of your apartment.

Josh stopped following Jake and chose to stand across from you on the other side of the doorframe.

"Regretting your decision?" He folded his arms.

"I don't know," you placed your head against the blue-grey wall, "I'm trying to be optimistic about this, you know, since he's going to be the reason I get to stay here." You said. "But I'm not a huge fan of him. I mean, I feel like we're already off to a rough start."

He looked over his shoulder to see Jake walking in with a singular brown box, passing the both of you and setting it in his room with the rest of his stuff. He began unpacking quietly, crouching on the ground and tearing open a few of the boxes.

"Well, there's really no backing out now." He brought his voice down to a whisper. "Maybe you should try talking to him, put your guys' past behind you and starting off fresh."

You scoffed. "Starting fresh," you shook your head, "we'll see how far that goes.

He only shrugged at you, joining his brother and helping him put his clothes into his drawers and closet. With an eye roll, you dragged yourself into the room and walked over to Jake. You noticed he had two guitar cases unopened, propped up on the walls.

"Guitars." You said to him, pointing at them.

He closed a drawer that he finished filling and lifted his head towards you. "Wasn't going to leave them at Josh's. Kind of need them, y'know? Brought my amp, too."

"How long have you been playing?"

"Ever since I could remember. Think I was two, but it feels like I've picked up a guitar as soon as I was born."

"He's quite the musician." Josh pointed at the both of you with a toothy grin.

Jake nodded at him. "Anyways, I've always liked music. I'm thankful that I get to do it as my career."

You nodded. "I'm sure it's hard finding work as a struggling soloist, huh?"

He looked at you with a scrunched face. "I've actually been able to get lots of gigs, actually. What gives you the impression that I'm not doing well for myself?"

"Well, you're moving in with me after crashing at Josh's place because you got kicked out of your own apartment. Figured if you were doing well, you'd be living on your own."

"This is more of a favor for you, alright? Do you think I was jumping for joy at the idea of living with you?" He turned his body towards you.

"More of a favor for me? I figured you would be so excited to live with me since Josh told me you-."

"I unpacked a good amount of your stuff, Jake." Josh quickly cut in. "Think it's time to get some of your 'decorations' out to make the room a bit more you."

You both looked towards Josh, giving each other a singular glare before stepping a part for each other. You felt your blood boil at the sight of his stuff bombarding your once empty room, and you realized that you began the small argument. You couldn't figure out what to talk to him about, especially since you two didn't seem to have a lot in common. But, with the unfortunate time that you had with him, you were bound to learn almost everything about him.

After the room was fully finished, throwing away the boxes outside in a large bin and Jake being fully settled in, Josh said his goodbyes to the both of you. You wished he would have stayed longer, but he would've had to leave at some point.

Before you left the room, Jake called your name.

You turned to him. "Need anything?"

"Just wondering how you feel about being stuck with me now."

"Hopefully it's not for too long." You gave him a shit-eating grin.

"Well, I think it's going to be fun living with you."

"We'll see how you feel about that when I go over the ground rules, which I think we can start with now." You nodded at him, folding your arms.

"You have rules for me? You're quite the stickler." He chuckled at you.

"It's so we can maintain a civil living environment, be on the same page about things..." You trailed off. "I'm sure there are some things you want me to be aware of."

"Perhaps I'll think of some," he exhaled his words, "but aren't rules meant to be broken sometimes?"

You noticed his lips curl into a devious smile. He was trying to get under your skin quickly, but you weren't going to allow it.

You decided to play back. "If that means more fun, then sure they are."

The slightest hint of a genuine smile replaced the original smile he once wore, but he quickly changed his demeanor.

"Give me an example, then."

You shook your head. "I don't know, but none of rules I'm setting down for you are supposed to be broken. That'll guarantee you a kick to the curb."

He sighed, throwing his hands to his side and taking a defeated breath. "I was starting to think you were a bit exciting."

"I can be a bit deceitful at times. But I like to think of myself as a fun individual." You could feel a smile forming on your mouth, one that tightened at your cheeks. But with a tug on the inside of your lip, you were able to break it.

He folded his arms. "We'll venture your thrillingness another time. Should go ahead and give me those rules that seem to be so important to you."

"I'm sure you have some things you want me to be aware of, right? Boundaries that you don't want crossed - stuff like that." You began walking out of the bedroom.

He followed behind with minimal space between you. "I didn't have the time to think of some. Maybe I'll write some down and post them on the fridge." He gave you a shrug.

You stopped your movements once you hit the kitchen, turning around and noticing the proximity between the both of you.

You looked to him. "Whatever helps you sleep at night, alright? Now, let's start. So-."

He cut you off. "How many rules are there? Like, are they ones that are common sense or ones that would make me want to move out already?"

"If you'd let me talk and stop being impatient, then you'll figure it out."

For a moment, you two stood there, staring each other down like a faceoff. Who would break first? Who would accept defeat? Tension rose in the room, building up a small barrier between yours and his's bodies that felt like it was meant to be broken. You didn't want to leave the wall there between you two, as you began to feel trapped with annoyance.

You decided to restate yourself, calmly. "Some of them are pretty basic rules, like don't be late on rent and bills, make sure you're giving me your half and not cutting me short. Don't have anyone over unless you tell me, just because it's the right thing to do. I don't want anyone showing up when I'm indecent or the place is a mess."

"Do you not clean your apartment often?" He furrowed his brows.

You placed your hand on your forehead. "I do, Jake, it's just a circumstantial issue. Sometimes I don't have free time on my hands to keep the place tidy because I work so often, and I come home exhausted every night. And that leads me to my next rule: Keep your space tidy, and since you're living here, clean up around a bit if you make a mess. That's common sense, right?"

He nodded slowly. "Yeah, that makes sense. What else?"

You trailed your body around the island, while Jake stood center in the room. "Don't crank your amp up all the way when I'm home. Maybe even keep it down a bit while I'm out just in case of noise complaints. I'm fine with you playing, practicing, all of that. Just try and be mindful of others."

He cocked his head to the side slightly with a grin. "Maybe you should invest in a pair of earplugs."

"I'll have you know I already have a pair, but I'd prefer not to use them all the time. This is my place just as much as it is yours now. Clear?"

"Crystal." He stated plainly. "Anything else?"

You began talking about different rules that the landlord had set already, saying that he had to follow them for obvious reasons. You also told him if you had any other rules, you'd let him know. But for now, you had nothing else to say.

You showed him the papers he had to sign so you could hand them to your landlord, which was a small stack and could easily be finished in a few minutes. A black ink pen was set down next to the papers, and you watched intently for a few moments as he sat down, read them quickly, and signed.

He paused his motions, flicking his eyes up to you and setting them down onto the papers. "You don't have to stand there and watch me. I'm signing them, don't worry."

Your cheeks crept with a light pink shadowing over your face. "Right, sorry," you clasped your hands together, "I'll just go get ready for work."

You made your way over to your bedroom. You had almost made it down the hallway, until Jake spoke up.

"Where do you work?"

You turned on your heels to face him. "Brewology Coffee House. I'm an acting manager there."

He had his head over his shoulder towards you. "Ah, I don't think I've been. I'll have to stop by one of these days."

"I don't like the sound of that." You huffed a laugh through your nose.

"I have free will. Perhaps I'll come get some coffee tonight."

You shook your head with an eye roll. "Don't think about it. I can kick you out, you know."

He chuckled lightly. He turned his attention back to his papers, and said, "You won't. Think you're starting to like me."

"Not even remotely close." You shook your head and finally went to your bedroom to change.

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

-part two-

series taglist: @jakekiszkasmommy @anythingforjtk @gold-mines-melting @twistedmelodies @ageofhearingloss @classicsneverdie @lmaooharry @raviolilegs @mydarlingdanny @iheartjakekiszka @edtvdf @ohgodthefeeling-gvf @gvf23 @flo-gvf @madneedshelp @carlyfleet @pinkunicornsandbluecows @edtvdf @lmaooharry

other tags: @songbirds-sweet @sacredjake @mountain-in-springtime @ignite-my-fire @gvfsstardust @jakesguitarsolo @fallonfatality @digitalcalamity @demolitionndann @lipstickitty @lexii-nv-c @joopsworld @gvfpal @hellowgoodbye @writingcold @loverleaverslayerbeliever @stardustcatcher @absolutely--mental @hippievanfleet @haileygvf @gretasfallingsky

[happinessismusic]

Oh my, this video interview of Blake with Cassie has so many lovely quotes. One of my favorites is Zuma showing Blake about new country artists. Blake described Zuma as a boots and jeans guy. So adorable! 💕

[fiberslut]

Always in Powers

Pairing: Lukas Matsson x roy!reader

This is just a headcanon about being the youngest Roy sibling

You’re just holding a meeting while some unknown number pops up on your phone. You excuse yourself and answer to that number to hear Marcia’s voice. ‘Your father needs you’ she says, ‘I’m sorry, I think you’ve got the wrong number, I don’t have a father’ ‘He’s offering you to be the CEO’ ‘What happened to Ken and Rome?’ ‘Let’s discuss about it when you’re here, next month is your father’s birthday remember?’ ‘As I said, I don’t have a father’ ‘See you soon’ and then she hung up

You have no idea what does he want. He’s ignored you for 22 years of your life but now he wanted to see you? and offering you to be the CEO of Waystar?

At a very young age, you’ve lived in the same house as Connor, Kendall, Roman, and Shiv. But one day your father hit you for some unknown reason, your mom knew about it, fired a restraining order against Logan, divorced him, and moved you two back to your mom’s country.

From that day on, you would go by her last name.

Since your mom is a very famous actress/model in your country, that made you’re also in the limelight too.

You hate Logan. Hate how he treated you and your mom. Hated how he never fought to get you back. Hate how he never calls on your birthday. Hate how he never said ‘Happy birthday kid’ to you. Hate how you would have no one to celebrate Father’s Day with.

That’s why you always work so hard, and be able to graduate double degree from Harvard Business School and Harvard Law School at the age of 22. And since you’re famous (thanks to your mom) you have a lot of celebrity friends, which helps with your clothing company to be successful and to be accepted worldwide.

Now you’re in Italy for Caroline’s wedding. But Logan wants you to go with him and Roman to talk about business with this Matsson guy.

He is a very interesting guy. Not like what you have in mind about tech bro.

Lukas couldn’t stop looking at you while talking with Logan. Rome sees it too and he’s not happy about it.

While you’re on the boat back to the wedding venue, some odd numbers appear on your phone, you answer it and it’s Lukas. ‘How did you get my number Mr. Matsson?’ Rome hears that and signal you to hang up the phone, while Logan is smiling in a victorious way.

‘He’s not going to give you CEO’ Kendall says, ‘From what Roman told me, he’s obviously using you to woo Matsson’ ‘No he’s not, he promised me’ you argue back, ‘He promised me too’ Shiv adds

From that day on you’ve talked and texted with Lukas every day. You find him so laid back and funny not like any guys you’ve dated.

You are Roman’s favorite, he’s the only one who visits you every year, so since you’re back in New York, you usually hang out at Roman’s place.

‘What are you smiling at?’ Roman asks ‘Don’t tell me it’s that Swede again, aren’t you dating that Denmark prince?’ ‘He’s a Count and no we’re not dating’ ‘It’s creepy, Matsson is too old for you’ ‘Um, I don’t think you should be the one to lecture me about what is creepy or what is not huh Mr. send-your-dick-pic-to-dad’

When you’re free of meeting, you will fly to Sweden. You and Lukas have developed a serious relationship. ‘What if I buy your dad’s company?’ He asks. ‘There is a cheaper way to impress me Lukas’ ‘No I’m serious’ ‘Then you should buy ATN too’ ‘Wouldn’t that destroy him?’ ‘That’s my point’

You were at Connor's side when you heard the news. That Logan is dead while he's on the plane to meet Lukas. You felt empty, just blank, not any hint of sadness. You saw Kendall, Roman, and Shiv were crying and saying I love you Dad at the phone. They're devastated at the news and couldn't do the interview, so it was you to do it.

Your sibling didn't have time to mourn Logan's death that much since Lukas invited them and the company to Norway.

You were excited, you and Lukas agreed to make your relationship official at the retreat.

Everyone was so shocked except Roman, he saw it coming since the first day. Kendall totally couldn't accept it, he refused to talk to you all day. Shiv just looked at you in disbelief but didn't say anything.

You love this retreat, you always ask Greg to be your photographer for your Instagram. Lukas hates how you are always with Greg when you should be next to him.

So he asks Greg who he is and insulted him in Swedish in front of his friends. You get mad at him for talking about your family like that. You and Lukas have a fight and you ended up leaving the retreat that afternoon and flying back to New York to help Connor with the funeral.

You haven't heard from him until the funeral day. You saw him with Shiv and that totally sums up everything for you. You ignore him all morning just to end up being pulled away into the dark corner of the church, him kissing you passionately and saying he's sorry and how much he's missed you.

So that week he stayed with you at your penthouse and he proposed to you.

He has you by his side while taking a group photo as GoJo successfully bought Waystar and ATN. You showing your new engagement ring as your new chapter of life is about to start as a wife and an American CEO of Waystar.

[austinsmutler]

i think this is the request box??? SORRY UGH))) hi!! first time requesting! Could you do a BDE(or Austin)! Elvis x reader (could use she/her pronouns). Reader is timid and socially awkward. During one of Elvis’ shows, the staff at the venue are being really rude to her while she’s trying to get to his dressing room and saying like “just because you’re sleeping with him doesn’t give you any authority to come back here.” Elvis hears about this and confronts them after the show telling them that if they ever talk to his pretty girl like that again that he would do more than just fire them (FIRST TIME REQUESTING IM SORRY THIS IS A REALLY AWKWARD REQUEST)))

Oooh Anon. You’ve single-handedly pulled me out of my writing block with this request. If I could hug you, I would, but instead enjoy Austin!Elvis wanting to burn the world down to protect reader. I hope it's worth the wait.

Keep sending requests for Austin!Elvis, guys! These are so fun!

It's Only Love - Austin!Elvis x Reader - 2,000 words

What you’ll like: Protective Elvis, BDE Elvis, hurt/comfort, pet names ('baby' and 'pretty girl'), Elvis stands up to Colonel

Warnings: Period-typical misogyny, mild violence (nothing major or graphic but there is some grabbing)

Masterlist | Requests are currently open (Please tell me everything you want!)

“Well I’m leaving town baby, I’m leaving town for sure, then you won’t be bothered with me hanging round your door- but that’s alright…” Your boyfriend drawled into the microphone, leaning in with a sultry sway of his hips that had the crowd sighing. 

Elvis’ eyes found yours as he sang, “But that’s alright, that’s alright now mama, any way you do… Woo-hoo!” He howled as the song, and the show, finished. 

The girls around you went wild, showering the stage in everything from red roses to their bras. It was always a strange sight, especially when one bra fell over Elvis’ head and he turned to throw it at Bill, the bass player, with a laugh.

You’d been there every step of the way on the tour, from Memphis to Lousianna and all the way to North Carolina. No matter where Elvis went, there was a crowd of girls screaming his name and throwing their garments at his feet. 

But you weren’t one of them. Elvis’ eyes always picked you out in the crowd and held you, performing your favorites as a secret serenade in every show.

You’d known Elvis since you were children, growing up together on the outskirts of Tupelo, sneaking into Black Pentecostal churches together, and- slowly as growing up- falling in love. 

Your parents hardly had to be persuaded to let you follow him across the country, because you had practically been married since the first time Elvis had grabbed your hand and led you inside the tent as they sang Up Above My Head. Elvis didn’t just teach you the words, he’d burned them into your soul, never letting go of your hand once as you both sang,

“I wanna soothe my heart, I wanna ease my mind, I wanna move my shoes and see what I can find…”

Elvis had found music, but you’d found him. 

** **

Usually Elvis would sneak out from backstage and meet you after the show, but with bigger crowds and Elvis more recognizable than ever, you’d agreed it was best for you to simply come backstage from now on. Everyone who worked with Elvis knew you- even the band members affectionately called you Mrs Presley. 

Which made it surprising when the bouncers- rare members of the team who weren’t Elvis’ direct friends or family -cut you off. 

“Backstage is for band members only.”

“What? Tommy, come on.” You put your hands on your hips, frowning up at the tall man. “You know me.”

“Sorry ma’am, Colonel’s orders.”

“Excuse me?” You caught eyes with Bill, passing behind Tommy. “Hey, Bill!”

“Hey, that's ol’ Mrs Presley!” Bill greeted you with a smile. “C’mon boys, let her through.”

“Backstage is for band members only.” The other bouncer, Tex, repeated. “Sorry Bill.”

You looked at Bill for help, but he was frowning at the other men. “Well, I’m a band member, and she’s with us. Let her through.” 

“Can’t. Colonel’s say-so.” Tommy said expressionlessly. “Real sorry, Bill.”

“You’re gonna be.” Bill looked at you. “Wait here, it’s gonna be alright.”

The second Bill was out of earshot, the bouncers focused their attention on you. It was the first time all tour you’d felt… afraid. It was a hot July night and you’d left your cardigan at home. Suddenly your shoulders felt too bare as they looked you up and down, disgust slowly filtering onto their faces. 

“Just because you’re fucking the boss doesn’t mean you can come back here.” Tommy growled, while Tex stepped forward to shove you further back. 

“He'll be done with you soon enough. Girls like you get boring after a while.” 

You bit your lip, fighting back tears, but you instinctively pushed back against the larger man. Tex’s face twisted in rage as he grabbed your arms with bruising strength. 

“Don’t think you can get away with that, just because you’re sleeping with Presley.”

He shoved you back so hard you hit the wall. You cried out in shock and pain as your head hit the wall and the world turned blurry.

“What the fuck is going on here?” A low voice growled from behind the bouncers. Elvis, still in his pink and black stage suit.

Bill was with him, but when he saw the scene, he took a step back from the singer as if he’d explode. If it were possible, Elvis would be ticking like a bomb ready to blow. 

“Elvis-” Tommy started, but Elvis silenced him with one hand. His dark blue eyes fixed on Tex, who was still in front of you, so uncomfortably close you could smell the sweat under his suit. It made you nauseous. 

You were still dazed from your head hitting the wall, unable to speak as Elvis stalked forward. For every step forward Elvis took, Tex took a step back. 

“I’m gonna give you one chance to explain what you were doing, touching my girl like that.” Elvis snarled. “And that’s one more chance than you deserve, so be quick.”

“W-well, boss-” Tex suddenly didn’t seem so big, hands at his sides, staring at his shoes. He looked more like a child being scolded. “We didn’t mean to-”

“Then what did you mean to do?” Elvis snapped. He was between you and Tex now, hand grasping yours with a reassuring squeeze. "Cause it looked to me like you were throwing my girl around like a rag doll, which she ain't." 

“Listen, we-” Tommy stepped forward, but Elvis interrupted. 

“No, you both listen. You’re fired. If I see either of you near my show or my pretty girl again, I’ll do more than just fire you. Got it?”

He didn’t wait for their response, wrapping an arm around you and guiding you backstage to his dressing room. The pain didn’t fully set in until he sat you in his chair. You winced.

Elvis felt at the lump on the back of your head. No skin was broken, but it still throbbed. Colorful bruises were already beginning to form on your arms where Tex had all-but thrown you backwards.

“Oh, no. No, no, no." Elvis murmured when he saw the marks. He was on his knees, looking up at you with a pained expression. “I’m so sorry, baby.” 

He kissed every bruise on your skin so softly you barely felt the heat of his lips. All the while he murmured comforting words, 

“I ain’t ever gonna let this happen to you again. Never gonna let anything like this happen again. I promise.”

You were silent, replaying Tommy and Tex's words over in your head. They had no idea what they were talking about, but the words still left you with a lingering nausea, far worse than any of the bruising on your body.

“How’s my girl doing?”

“I’m okay.” Your voice was meek, even to your own ears. 

"Hey, pretty girl," Elvis frowned, cupping your chin, running his thumb over your bottom lip. “You can tell me.”

And you did. As the tears finally spilled over your eyes, you told Elvis the worst of what the bouncers said. Tension flooded into his shoulders as you repeated their words.

Just because you’re fucking the boss doesn’t mean you can come back here.

“Those sons of-” Elvis caught himself, running a hand through his hair. “I’m sorry you had to hear that, baby. They ain’t ever gonna work again, I'll make sure of it.” 

He kissed the back of one hand, then the other. Elvis’ eyeliner was messy after a night of performing, sweat still glazing his skin. He looked… tired. You’d never seen Elvis tired before, and the sight scared you more than anything. For the first time in twenty years of knowing him, he looked less than invincible. 

You wiped the sweat from his forehead, leaning down to kiss him. 

“I’ll be fine, really.” You smiled weakly. “You didn’t have to fire them.”

“If I ever had to see ‘em again I’d do worse than that, baby.” He pulled you in close to kiss your forehead, then your lips. “I’m gonna talk to the Colonel. Make sure he files a police report and hires real security for our next show.” 

You bit your lip, remembering their words. Colonel’s orders. “Elvis…”

Your lip wobbled. Elvis trusted nobody in the world more than the Colonel, aside from his mother. Would he believe you? 

Warm hands rubbed up and down your shoulders. “Hey, I’m right here.”

“The Colonel made them do it, they said he said not to let me through.” You blurted out, clamping a hand over your mouth, tears rising to your eyes again. Elvis’ hands froze on your shoulders. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry-”

Elvis stood up. Through your tears, you could see the fire in his eyes. You thought he was angry before? Well, he was furious now. Hands bunched to fists at his sides, he didn't move for a long moment, just stared. Then he left the room without a word. 

It was common knowledge you didn’t get along with the Colonel. Elvis considered him a godsend, the man who launched his entire career. You considered him a toad, especially after one conversation you’d overheard in Graceland:

“If the fans know about her, they won’t follow you.”

Elvis thought you’d gone up to bed, but you had lingered to grab a glass of water… and listen to the men talking business. The thought had never crossed your mind before that you were part of that business. 

“Little girlfriends, they don’t last. But your music? My dear boy, that is immortal- if you play your cards right.”

Elvis laughed, and your blood froze. Then the laughter stopped abruptly. 

“You’re serious? What’re you talking about, Colonel?” Your boyfriend’s voice was light and playful, but there was an edge to it. Something underneath you’d never heard before. “I sing from the heart, and she is my heart. Without her, there’s no music.”

“My boy-”

“Understand me?”

“But-”

“Do you understand me?” The playfulness dropped from his voice. Elvis was easily persuaded to go along with just about anything the Colonel dreamed up (“His plans got us this far, haven’t they?”) but from that night one thing was clear: your relationship was not up for negotiation. 

Until tonight.

You stayed there for a while, emptiness settling in your stomach. Elvis didn’t believe you. Why would he? The Colonel had got him this far. Got him a tour in all fifty states. Made him enough money to buy Graceland and as many Cadillacs as he could imagine. You were just a girl from Tupelo, he could find another.

Still, you waited, hoped he’d come back. You could apologize, say you must’ve misunderstood, say anything to get him back. A difficult life with Elvis and the Colonel was better than an empty life without the man you loved. 

Minutes turned to a full hour, so you left, dragging your feet towards the exit, hoping your motel room would still be available to you. Elvis wouldn’t leave you in the middle of America, miles from home with no way back, would he?

Distant shouting caught your attention. You recognized Elvis’ voice immediately and followed down the corridor to a slightly-open door that simply said ‘Colonel’.

“Who the hell do you think you are?” Elvis shouted so loud it made you jump, even as you paused outside the door to listen. “Who’re you gonna ban next, my mama?”

“Your mother is not the problem, my boy-” The Colonel sounded flustered, barely himself.

“And neither is she!” Elvis snarled, slamming something down inside the room. “Goddammit. I’ve told you before, I sing from the heart. You want to stop that?"

Silence. Had the Colonel ever been lost for words before?

Elvis continued, "Fine, we can break all our promises. How about this? I don’t see her backstage before and after every performance, I don’t sing. Or-" Elvis snapped his fingers, "Better idea, we go public. Let's see how many fans actually follow me for my music. I don't care about the rest of it."

“Elvis-”

“Those are your options. I’ll give you one more chance, but that’s it. And if I ever, ever find out you pulled this horseshit again, you're done."

The Colonel was silent for a while, but perhaps he muttered something quietly, or simply nodded, because the next thing you knew, Elvis was coming out of the room, fists still clenched and face flushed with anger. 

All of that melted away when he saw you. 

“Baby,” He murmured, taking your hand in his. “What’re you doing out here?”

"I- I thought-" Your body shook, and Elvis took the black jacket from his shoulders to drape it across yours. He led you away from the Colonel's door, back to the privacy of his dressing room. 

"You don't have to throw your life away because of me." You finally said.

Elvis smiled, wiping the tears from your cheeks with both hands. "Sweet girl." 

Without warning he picked you up and sat back in his chair, holding you on his lap while he peppered your face with kisses.

"A life without you? That's not one I want to be living." He pressed your foreheads together and let out a sigh. "But this right here, you and me? That's what's right. And I will protect that- protect you, Always."

[whomst-art-thou-whomst-whomst]

Whomst’s Drama-Watching Year in Review*

*please note this is about dramas I watched in 2024, not necessarily dramas released in 2024

Favorite “confusing and convoluted but also an unserious gay old time” drama: The Sign Special Episode

One of my fave shows last year, and then they spoiled us with a special episode??? This show has everything: Thai mythology worked into a BL plot, the most badass training for police in the world (seriously wtf they’re like the Navy SEALs here in the US), and the absolutely adorable “star-crossed but then we said fuck fate” romance between Tharn, who exemplifies my gender goals, and Phaya, a himbo simp. Not to mention that this baby *slaps the show’s roof* can fit soooo many under-explained and unlikely side stories and plot holes.

I cackled so many times watching this drama, and the special episode does not disappoint. Absolutely insane. Love it.

Favorite Performance in a Single Scene: Tan Jianci in Under the Skin 2, Episode 20

Tan Jianci. This…this fuckin guy. Our special little guy. Forlorn-looking twink extraordinaire. His off-the-rails ranting monologue while confronting a serial killer about his motives, empathizing while manipulating and trying to stay sane all at once, is genuinely up there with my favorite performances of all time.

Now, usually my ADHD ass struggles to stay focused in a scene, but dear reader—I just sat there as Tan Jianci gave us a new side of Shen Yi, spellbound like his audience (please stop skipping off to confront serial killers alone, Shen Yi sweetie) in the scene. He needs an award for this role that matches the skill he showed here (and throughout the show); I don’t think I’ve been so hypnotized and fascinated by an actor’s work in a single scene since Javier Bardem in No Country for Old Men. All the awards for Tan Jianci.

Favorite Sapphic Sweethearts: Tul and Ran in Petrichor the Series

Listen. I am not made of stone and Thailand knows what they’re fucking doing giving us these two. I’m fine. Totally fine. No, you spent an hour rewatching that one scene.

I haven’t posted much on this show because I’m still watching it and savoring it slowly, like a Milano cookie. But once I get some free time (laughs hysterically) I plan to start doing meta on this Englot dream. It’s giving us what Rizzoli and Isles should have done in the first place (no disrespect to Sasha Alexander, my queen).

Favorite “The Subtext Is Rapidly Becoming Text” Couple: Ao Li and Yan Jingjing in Under the Skin 2, Episode 15

Okay so I’ve already talked about this show in the list—so what? So what???

Captain Holt voice: and you’ll hear it again!

This series is no stranger to the sapphic under-overtones, but the two ladies who reunite at the culmination of a case that is not what it seems (I refuse to spoil) acted their fucking hearts out and DO NOT TELL ME THAT THE TWO OF THEM EMBRACING IN A WEDDING VENUE, ONE IN A FULL-ON WHITE WEDDING DRESS AND THE OTHER IN A RED (popular wedding dress color for Chinese brides) DRESS, IS ANYTHING LESS THAN GAY GAY GAY GAY GAY GAYGAYGAY—

You get the picture. Anyway. They’re amazing and their sapphic coded “former friends” storyline is realistic and beautifully told. Ao Li broke my heart. Even though we only had them for a few episodes, I would seriously watch a whole spin off series about these two characters.

Favorite Returning Actor: Wu Dohwan in Mad Dog

I was first introduced to Wu “Doe Eyes” Dohwan in My Country: The New Age, which is a super fun romp full of kittens and milkshakes—just kidding, it’s a soul-rending mindfuck of a historical drama that I’m still brooding over. Oh, and he was also the golden retriever boxer in Bloodhounds opposite Lee Sangyi (who absolutely killed it too, that show rocked). Now suddenly I’m watching him play a cunning chameleon taking on the world’s longest revenge scheme and making so many friends and enemies in the process (good for him). His range is insane—from a high-strung, ambitious emo with unrequited love to an innocent himbo jock to a scheming traumatized con artist. His Home Alone episode is great, too, and you get to see that the golden retriever thing is probably the closest to his real self.

Surprise Favorite: Where Your Eyes Linger: Director’s Cut

People. I clicked out of curiosity because hey, I liked that BL the first time around, I wonder what’s diff—holy shit.

This director’s cut is a gift. It focuses more on Kang Gook’s internal experience, the closeups and cutaways are jarring but somehow work really well. Honestly, it felt like I was watching a companion to the original.

[necnnights]

In which Hwajung goes on her last date.

FEATURING: Go Hwajung, Yoon Mingeun

SETTING: July 2024

WORD COUNT: 4.3k

NOTES: Title taken from the W*terparks song. I couldn't help it 😔.

Hallucinations are never a good sign. If Hwajung squints, she thinks she sees Mingeun in the crowd. The person she takes as him is standing near the back of the audience, much closer to the bar than the stage. He isn’t holding a drink, but the people he’s with are. That checks out with his habits. He might be wearing a mask, but something about the way he stands and the way he leans forward to speak into the ear of the guy next to him screams Mingeun to her.

That, or it’s been too many months since they’ve been in the same country as each other. First, her band had their English album and their short tour. Then Fable went on their world tour, and now Neon Nights is in Japan again. She sees him everywhere he isn’t. She’ll pass someone on the street who laughs like him or has the same shoddy, DIY dyed hair as him, and her heart beat will quicken and she’ll turn around, only to make eye contact with a complete stranger.

Sometimes Hwajung thinks they might be the worst girlfriend and boyfriend in the history of girlfriends and boyfriends.

“Qiuyun-chan, what do you think we should end the show with?” Yumi asks. She holds Eunbyul’s microphone, the cord looping circles around the stage. She still does most of the talking, despite the massive improvements in everyone else’s Japanese through the years.

Hwajung mouths Qiuyun’s next line along with her. “I think everyone should choose.”

They planned this ahead of time, letting the audience members vote on a handful of songs via stickers on a board as they entered the venue. Three songs ago, Aerin let them all know that the winner was “Revolution.” Eden’s violin sits just offstage, waiting for the official announcement.

“Is that so?” Yumi says. “Let’s see what everyone picked.”

That’s the cue for the board to be rolled out onto center stage. Hwajung gives them a short snare roll as it takes center stage. It blocks her view, but she can hear the appreciative cheers from the audience regardless.

“It’s ‘Revolution!’” Qiuyun announces. She has to wait for the audience to settle down again before she continues. The board moves silently offstage. “It’s one of my favorite tracks from our debut album. My favorite part is Eden-chan’s violin.”

That's Eden’s cue to retrieve her violin. She waves her bow at the audience and then plays a quick scale. 

Hwajung snorts because she knows no one can hear her. She doubts Qiuyun has any favorite songs from their debut album. She distinctly remembers Qiuyun crying after she heard the songs for the first time.

Qiuyun hands the microphone back to Eunbyul and fumbles to right her guitar from where it was slung behind her. Hwajung rolls her eyes. Even from the back, Eunbyul’s movements are much smoother and practiced. One more song, and she'll be home free.

One encore and another hour later, Hwajung slouches on a couch in the dressing room, waiting for everyone else to use the single restroom before they return to their AirBnb. A quick glance to her right confirms Yumi is doing much of the same, already swiping through a dating app. A knock sounds at the door and she pays it no mind, assuming it’s Aerin returning from whatever the responsibilities of her job are. Hwajung won’t even pretend to know what she does.

“Hwajung?” Aerin says, and that’s when Hwajung looks up, zeroes in on the person behind her, and shoots off the couch so fast she makes herself dizzy.

She barrels into Mingeun with enough force to knock the air out of him in a quiet huff. He slides a small half step back as she wraps her arms around him.

"I missed you too, Jungie," he says, breath ghosting over her ear as he hugs her back.

She leans into him, comforted by his solid presence. She wasn't hallucinating. One point for her mental state. Somewhere in the background, Eunbyul clears her throat.

Hwajung takes a step back and smooths her shirt down. She's probably grinning like an idiot. She can't bring herself to care. Eunbyul appears to be frozen two steps out of the restroom, lips set in a straight line. Hwajung knows it's to keep her from looking like she approves of Mingeun's actions.

"He wouldn't leave," Aerin says somewhat apologetically. "I stepped in before the venue staff tried to have him arrested."

Mingeun gives an easy grin and brushes his bangs out of his eyes. He has the leather jacket she bought for him for his birthday last year slung over one arm. "Thank you. Taein-nim would never post bail for me."

Hwajung's heart swoops as she grabs his hand. "I'll see you later tonight, unnie," she says to Aerin.

Her manager grimaces slightly, but doesn't protest. "Don't get in trouble. Stay safe." "I wouldn't dream of it."

As they leave, she hears Yumi make a retching noise. Hwajung ignores it, because she was the one looking for an online date.

Once they reach the freedom of the fresh night air, Mingeun gives her a sidelong glance. “Your manager lets you leave like that? Mine would kill me.”

Hwajung loops her arm through his as they walk. “She doesn't let me do anything. I make my own decisions.” She doesn't understand why he asks. He's always been someone who makes his own choices, damn the consequences.

“Did he let you visit me?” she asks, deliberately using the same words.

“He doesn't know,” he says. “I'm leaving in the morning. Andrew-hyung is covering for me.”

That's the second favor her band has received from him: his help on their English album, and now this chance for her and Mingeun to finally have a night together. Hwajung hates being indebted to people.

“You're leaving already?” There's an edge of a whine in her voice. She hates it for being there, and she hates her inability to suppress it.

He nods as he guides her to a stop in front of a park entrance. They didn't travel far. The options for things to do at midnight are limited, she figures. “I can't stay long. It might look suspicious, and I'm already under scrutiny.”

She swallows down any sort of response to that and looks reproachfully at the somewhat foreboding darkness instead.

He reads her mind. “There aren't a lot of places open all night,” he says, somewhat apologetically. He starts ticking off other date locations. “We've been to arcades and karaoke and concerts before. I wanted to do something different.”

"You're not planning on killing me in there and hiding my body, are you?" She trusts Mingeun with her life, but she'd be dumb not to recognize the fact that he could overpower her in seconds if he really wanted to.

He gives her a strange look. "No."

She pushes in front of him and strides through the open entrance. There's a subway station almost directly to her right. Probably not the best place to hide a dead body, then. The path is dark, and she stops a few steps in. The only light comes from the streetlights on the street they're rapidly leaving behind, and the not quite full moon.

"Now what?" she asks, somewhat stupidly.

She doesn't exactly see him shrug, but she can almost hear it. "We take a walk. There are supposed to be some fountains and ponds. It probably looks better in the daylight." He sounds nearly apologetic, even though he doesn't have to be.

Hwajung leans into him. "We could be sitting in your shitty hotel room. Anything else with you beats that."

"You don't know if my hotel room is shitty," he protests weakly. And then, almost as if it's an afterthought, he adds, in a much smoother tone, "Would you prefer that?"

Her cheeks heat up and she stumbles to change the subject. She's almost certain Mingeun's hotel room is shitty. "What time is your flight tomorrow?"

"Eight." He pulls his phone out of his pocket. Hwajung steals a glance at this screen and learns it's nearly half an hour past one in the morning. "Today." He uses the light of his screen—not the flashlight—to guide them down the paved path.

There isn't much to look at. It's the company, really, that makes the night special. Neither of them make very good conversationalists. Maybe they could be sitting in silence in his shitty hotel room.

"I liked your show," Mingeun says.

She preens for a moment before common sense kicks in. "You have to like my show," she points out. "You're my boyfriend." She says it even though she knows the opposite isn't true. She's been to Fable performances, of course, but they've never been her scene. That, and the amount of women her age in the audience thinking they have a chance with any of Mingeun's group members gives her second-hand embarrassment. Hwajung would rather die than be caught in the audience of any idol group concert. Mingeun knows that, but he's never given her flack for it, thankfully. Maybe opposites do attract.

"I guess that's true," he says begrudgingly.

"What was your favorite part?" Hwajung prompts.

He's silent for a good few moments, and she begins to regret asking the question. They pass a few other people, mostly people out for a jog and one man walking a dog.

"Near the end of 'Dice,' there was a part where the guitar and bass solos alternate. I liked that," he says eventually.

You and everyone else, Hwajung thinks, though she resists the urge to say it out loud. It's a thoughtful enough response, and besides, the song is one of their most popular. Probably for a good reason. There's a reason they still play it at almost every show. She hopes they haven't peaked yet, but if she had to pick their peak so far, 'Dice' would be a strong contender for it.

The light of Mingeun's phone screen—he taps it ever few seconds to keep it on—illuminates the wooden slats of a small bridge. To their right, the water in what must be one of the fountains or ponds he mentioned earlier reflects the moon in a rippling image. It's quiet, apart from the muted sounds of the city filtering through the trees. It's a far cry from her AirBnb, which feels downright suffocating and unlivable sometimes.

They cross the bridge in silence. It takes her another moment to realize he's waiting for a response. "That's a good choice. It's a good song."

"All your songs are good to you."

Hwajung corrects him gently. "Most of them. Not all of them." She's responsible for the majority of her band's music, and that makes most of it good, in the simple, reductive way Mingeun says it. There are songs that slip through the cracks, like when she delegated the English album to Eden, and whenever Taein decides it's a good idea for him to stick his nose where it doesn't belong. When it comes to those, she'd rather not have her name attached to them.

Mingeun does a sort of half shrug, the type of response he gives when he knows he's losing an argument or when he doesn't want to have a certain conversation anymore.

She doesn't push him. There are times when she can, and times when she can't, and right now, she lets it go. She doesn't want to ruin this one night they have together.

The light of his phone illuminates the shapes of a few benches lining the edge of the water. Hwajung takes a seat on one of them, and waits pointedly until Mingeun gets the message. The plastic creaks as his weight joins hers. The single perk of being here, she realizes, is that none of Fable's crazy fans are around. They've been better at hiding their relationship over the past few years, though she still remembers the news article that tried to end Mingeun's career shortly after they started dating. It was overshadowed by the other news articles trying to end his career. She wants to think that they've all been able to move past those types of rumors. She isn't confident.

But they're in a foreign country, and no one else is around, so she leans on his chest, listening to the steady pulse of his heartbeat. She wishes he'd get butterflies around her, the same way she does around him. A beat later, his hands tangle themselves in her hair.

Hwajung yawns, the exhaustion of the previous day finally catching up to her. Today is a rare day between performances, thankfully.

Mingeun is, of course, alert to her every action. "Are you tired? Do you want to go back?"

She shakes her head, trying to shake off the tiredness with it. "The trains won't run until five." She could ask Aerin for a ride, but she'd prefer not to. She doesn't want to burden her, not when she ran off the way she did.

She hears him frown more than she sees him do it. "We can't stay here all night."

Hwajung falls back to their default activities. "An arcade? Another concert? Karaoke?"

Fifteen minutes of research later, they end up at a tiny karaoke bar. She would have preferred an arcade, but there weren't many places open at midnight, and there are even less at closer to two in the morning. She tells Aerin she'll stay out until the trains run again, and then turns her phone off.

The bar isn't very friendly to foreigners. It takes all of Hwajung's broken Japanese and all of the front desk staff's broken English to explain and understand that yes, they would like to rent a room for three hours.

Fifteen minutes later, they sit in a darkened private room, the screen rotating through the same constant selection of stock footage of nature scenes. The couch they're on has definitely seen better days and the low table in front of them has a number of unidentifiable stains on it. She's glad for the ignorance the darkness allows. Mingeun picks up the song book immediately, hoisting the massive binder onto his lap and beginning to flip through the pages.

Even in the dim lighting, Hwajung can tell there are a few questionable sticky substances on the laminated pages. He doesn't seem to mind.

"Do you have any requests?" he asks, turning the pages quickly. The majority of the song listings are in Japanese, and the characters blur together. It doesn't matter much, because she can't read it.

She slips her shoes off and draws her knees up to her chin. "You can choose." He'll do most of the singing anyway.

"We should do a duet."

"'Everytime," Hwajung suggests, and then her mind goes blank on every other duet song she's ever heard.

With the remote and their machine set up in English by the front desk, Mingeun picks an AKMU song. He silently hands her another microphone, and she misses the first cue for the beginning of "Re-Bye." They should have switched parts, she thinks despairingly, because he's a better singer than her.

Three minutes of pretending she has a higher vocal range than she actually does, the song ends. Mingeun seems a lot happier than he did at any point earlier in the night. She gives him a gentle nudge. "Look for a Fable song."

She pulls half the binder over into her own lap, flipping quickly through the foreign music section in the back of the book.

"Here." Mingeun finds it first, stabbing the part of the page where there are exactly three Fable songs: "가자," "천둥," and "꽃처럼." Hwajung knows none of those songs hold very good memories for him.

"Let's do something else," she says, wondering if it's presumptuous of her to look for a Neon Nights song in here. They might even be in the main, Japanese song section, and that's not a thought she wishes to dwell on.

Mingeun's jaw is set, already typing in the code for "가자." As the machine loads, he stands, shaking off his jacket, and positions himself between the TV and the table. The song's introduction is short, but even with his back to the screen, he doesn't miss the start of the song, including the adlib title that doesn't seem to count as a lyric.

This isn't a real stage, and she's an audience of one. The performance is still captivating, his one-handed choreography no less polished than any legitimate Fable performance. One person performing a song written for eight people has to be difficult, and yet he does well.

She cheers for him as the song draws to a close. He isn't even out of breath. She almost wants to buy a Fable lightstick. Almost.

He moves his jacket off the seat and picks up the binder again. "Any requests?"

A few songs later, at somewhere around three in the morning—by Mingeun's phone, because she refuses to turn hers back on—Hwajung falls asleep on his shoulder during his soulful rendition of EXO's 'Hear Me Out.' She experiences the next few hours in fragments, balanced on the edge between wakefulness and sleep. At one point, she wakes up to find her head in his lap as he idly strokes her hair. Later, it's almost completely dark. The karaoke screen is off, and the only light comes from Mingeun's phone.

Eventually, he wakes her up, an insistent tapping on her shoulder until she shifts and pokes him back in the thigh.

"Good morning," Mingeun says. "I got you something to drink."

She struggles to sit up, her neck and back creaking in protest. She can't understand why. She's not old. There are two plastic bottles of water on the table. Hwajung grabs one and swallows a fourth of the bottle in two gulps.

"What time is it? Did you sleep?" she asks.

"Almost five. And no." Mingeun starts to count. "I sang a few more songs. I made sure no one burned down the Fable dorm, because I should be doing that, and that no one burned down the Fable dorm looking for me. I met the drunk Japanese college students next door. One of them understands enough English to know what 'shut the fuck up' means."

Hwajung nods along. It sounds like he had an entertaining night. She begrudgingly turns her phone back on. She isn't ready to see what Aerin left for her, but she knows she'll never be prepared.

Six missed calls and thirty-seven texts are better than what she expected. They started almost right after her last text, and tapered off closer and closer to the current time. Aerin threatened to call the police a few times, but as far as Hwajung can tell, she never did. She's thankful for that. She doubts Taein would bail her out of jail either. Aerin would, but not if she was the one to put her there.

Hwajung sends one text reassuring them all that she's still alive and she'll be back soon. She doesn't feel bad at all about leaving behind the suspicious couch and table and song listing. She can't believe she fell asleep on that. She does feel bad that her first night with Mingeun in a long time is drawing to a close.

They checkout with slightly more difficulty than their arrival. Hwajung does her best to fix her hair in the bathroom, though she realizes it's a lost cause ten minutes in.

She directs both of them back to her AirBnb. They only get lost once, when Mingeun insists they should wait until the next train station stop, since it's closer. It is not closer, and they catch the next train heading back the way they came.

The sight of the now-familiar whitewashed walls and sloped brown roof with the curtains drawn tightly closed is homier than she would have ever expected of an AirBnb. Aerin's rental van is parallel parked on the side of the road.

"Our promotions will finish by August," Hwajung says, though she's only about half certain that's true. They stand on the sidewalk. She savors every last moment they have. "You aren't going anywhere, right?"

Mingeun gets a far away look in his eyes. He's looking in her direction, but he isn't looking at her. She's said something wrong. "It would be best if we stopped seeing each other," he says, sounding unlike himself.

Hwajung freezes, heart dropping into the pit of her stomach. "I don't understand." She spares one glance towards the house. None of the lights are on. She hopes it stays that way.

"I didn't want to do this either," he says. He might have more to say, but she doesn't want to hear it.

"Then why?" She cuts him off. She can't understand it. "Why are you doing this?"

He shifts his weight from one foot to the next. Hwajung glares him down until he speaks again. "It's because of Taein-nim," he says eventually. "I don't have a choice."

She scoffs. "Fuck him. He doesn't make you do anything," she says, as if their initial friendship and relationship aren't almost direct consequences of Taein making Mingeun lie about himself.

"I'm sorry, Jungie," Mingeun offers. She recoils from the nickname almost as if she's been slapped.

The pressure of tears behind her eyes is a new development. She blinks furiously, unwilling to cry here, on the fucking sidewalk outside her fucking rental home while her fucking boyfriend—ex-boyfriend?—fucking breaks up with her.

"Is this why you came to see me? To tell me this?" Her voice shakes uncontrollably. She hates it.

Mingeun hesitates, expression fraught with uncertainty. It's a yes or no question, and both responses cast him in a negative light. He knows it. She knows it. He knows that she knows it.

"Yes," he says quietly. "It's the best for both of us. Taein-nim will respect us more."

It's best for him. Hwajung knows that for certain. Everything is about his work, and with it, comes his fundamental misunderstanding. Taein will always like Mingeun more than her or Eunbyul or Aerin, and he doesn't even like Mingeun.

She draws herself up to her full five-foot nothing height for a mere shred of dignity. A light is on in the house now, likely Aerin's sixth sense for knowing when any of them are around. She opens her mouth, and then realizes she has nothing to say to him. She isn't mad at him, more so disappointed and sad. She thought they had something that would survive the trials and tribulations of a single shitty entertainment company CEO. She doesn't have anything witty to say, nothing that would make him regret his decision.

She settles for the tried and true, "Fuck you."

She expects him to fight back. She wants him to fight back, to argue with her like the Mingeun she knows and loves would. Irritatingly enough, he seems to just accept her words.

"I have to go," he says. It isn't an apology, but the hint of one is still there.

She despises how detached he seems, like she was a task for him to check off, something else for him to say he's done.

"Then go," she says, unable to understand why he still lingers. It seems like he doesn't want to be here, and she's beginning to realize she might not want him here anymore.

Mingeun hesitates again, like he still has something else to say. Hwajung can't possibly imagine what it is. Then he turns his back on her, heading in the general direction of the nearest train station.

She watches his retreating back for only a few seconds. He doesn't turn around. She doesn't wait much longer, just prepares herself for Aerin's motherly fussing and lets herself into the house.

The person who turned on the lights, as it turns out, isn't Aerin like she thought, but Yumi, who sits in the spotless kitchen with a glass of water and her phone.

"Good night?" Yumi asks, still looking at her phone. She must understand Hwajung's silence, because she looks up and sees something. It might be Hwajung's hair, still rumpled from sleeping on the couch of a karaoke room, or the unshed tears still teeming in the corners of her eyes.

"Oh," Yumi says, standing and enveloping her in a hug. "What did he do? Do you need me to kill him?"

In spite of herself, Hwajung smiles sadly into Yumi's shoulder. She knows that if she says yes, Yumi would be hunting him down with a kitchen knife in five minutes.

"He broke up with me," she says, muffling her words into her friend's shirt.

"Finally."

Hwajung pulls away just to scowl at her. "Can you pretend to be sad for me?"

Yumi shrugs. "You'll be fine. You deserve better than him."

She doesn't know what to make of that. She spent the past three years thinking they deserved each other just fine. But Yumi wouldn't know that, so she pretends to agree. She yawns, and Yumi is on her case immediately.

"Go to bed. I'll tell Aerin-unnie you're back. And take a shower. You smell like stale cigarette smoke."

Hwajung nods sleepily. That happens, she figures, when you spend three hours in a karaoke booth. A real bed sounds heavenly in comparison.

She stumbles off to the bedroom she shares with Eunbyul, still not quite familiar with the layout of the house, despite having stayed there for a month now. She slips quietly into her bed, careful not to disturb Eunbyul. She doesn't try to sleep. Instead she lies awake, wondering if there's any remote possibility that what happened tonight was her fault.

[lululawrence]

As a non American can you explain why are there 3 concerts in Ohio? Is it a really big and populated state? Or else Louis could've done 1 bigger venue.

Djebdishdisvjdvsh

Sorry. I had to scream a little in the car because listen 😂😂😂 when the dates were announced I wanted a single show in Ohio. We get passed over all. The. Time. So often. So I first saw cuyahoga hills and was like…. Why there??? Nothing is there??? 😂 but OHIO! And then I saw Cincinnati and I was like… Cincinnati too???? Okay! Hitting the northeast corner and southwest corner of the state! Cool! And then Columbus too??? Like I legit texted @londonfoginacup asking like HOW MUCH DOES LOUIS LOVE US THAT HE IS GIVING US THREE OHIO SHOWS? Like we have to go to all three to show him Ohio loves him and this wasn’t a mistake right??? 😂

Which we obviously did. But we were just as surprised as you, I PROMISE YOU.

That said, there’s a lot of reasons why he could have chosen three shows here.

One: Ohio has three major metropolitan areas in the one state, which is pretty rare outside the super large and populous states. He’s hitting the three major markets and since he seems to be trying to hit even the smaller areas that don’t get much attention with this tour, it makes sense for that alone really.

Two: Location. Ohio is a state in an area of the country called the Midwest, but we are located in a pretty central area. This could explain it as well, because he’s not going to Kentucky (the state south of us) and I don’t think he’s going to Pittsburgh? (The closest large city east of us, he played there last year on Valentine’s Day hehe) which means they’ll be looking for shows to attend closeby, and Ohio can offer that. So while he’s also hitting Indianapolis (closest large city west of us) and already hit Detroit (another large city in the state north of us), he’s also not playing West Virginia (another state that borders us) and… yeah. Lots of people in that space who will be needing a place closeby to see him.

Which brings us to three: Population. We aren’t the MOST populous state or anything, there’s a reason people get us confused with Iowa and Idaho lol but, that said, we are the tenth (or seventh??) most populous according to the google search I just did lol different sites disagree, but when you consider there are fifty states, that’s still a good showing lol considering we have so many other populous areas surrounding us that the concerts would also draw from, that could have also been a contributing factor.

And lastly four: SCENERY. Listen. Ohio gets shit on a lot for being a “boring” state or a “flyover” state (aka no one comes here as a destination) and it pisses me off lol every single person I’ve ever brought to Ohio has been surprised when they got here because there was so much more here than they thought and parts of the state are GORGEOUS. I mean did you see the flyover view that John Delf did on Instagram of the cuyahoga falls venue??? That’s actually in a national park and it is just stunning there with gorgeous hiking and waterfalls and shit in the near vicinity. It’s amazing. And the venue he played tonight in Cincinnati was literally right on the Ohio river that creates the southern border for our state, and it had a view of one of my favorite bridges I’ve ever seen! PLUS!!! Tonight there was a full moon, and it was right above the bridge and Louis got to look at us AND THE BRIDGE AND MOON THE ENTIRE TIME. How gorgeous is that??? Like look at this shitty photo I took. Incredibly beautiful.

That’s from the railing that was only a short distance behind me and the sound guys for the concert so. Not shabby, right?? Now the venue in Columbus is right downtown in what we call the arena district because the arena where our hockey team plays is right across the street and the baseball stadium is next door and the new soccer stadium is in the area now too, so it’s got loads of venues and restaurants and shit right there and Kemba is one of the best indoor/outdoor venues in town now. I’ve seen several shows there over the years, and it’s great every time. It’s got good sound, a good setup, and the staff is always fantastic so while it’s maybe not the coolest venue, I do love when artists I enjoy come there. Not sure of the appeal on Louis’ end, but ¯\__(ツ)__/¯

So, taking all of these points into consideration, it does make a bit more sense… but three does still seem like he just felt like being overindulgent to us and show us extra love 😂😂 as emmu said, I guess Louis loves us best hahaha

We are just kidding, please don’t send me hate lol

I honestly also do not know why he chose to do this for us, but it makes travel plans a lot easier for us and I’m really fucjing thankful haha I’ve mostly been worried we wouldn’t be able to fill the venues sufficiently but so far so good so here’s hoping Columbus shows up too haha Heaven only knows parking and driving in Columbus is a fuck ton easier than doing so in Cincinnati 😂

[joltai-showa]

fic notes, "To End with a Bang"

last notes post for my submissions and after that I'll be focusing on rereading my BSSM stuff cause it's been so long I think I forgot like half of the stuff I had planned for FQTP lmao

about the title: I couldn't quite figure out what I wanted to do for this one's name, but considering that this fic is something bordering Deidara's ideas of commiting suicide (not exactly physical, but moreso for his pop idol persona, nonetheless you can see it pop up here and there) I decided to stop on a common (I believe?) phrase that also kind of coincides with Deidara's love for explosions

aaaaand the title drop by the end of the fic with Deidara and Obito admitting that To End with a Bang is their favorite song just kind of happened on its own, the dialogue was going and then I realized that it might be a cool place to drop this piece in

I generally try to write about 1k words a day and I believe it was like on day 2 or 3 that I finally decided on Deidara's stage name lol. I think Darling Dei is pretty catchy hehe

on that note Dei always refers to his fans as darlings💗

about Deidara's backstory in this one: just as usual in my AUs he's been adopted by Tsuchikage's family when he was young and was expected to follow the path that the family chose for him, meaning a political career. Deidara very much hated this, but continued to bear with it until he was about 19. One day he's decided he's had enough of everyone's bullshit, thus he stole his friends' money, took his documents from the family and ran away from the country to pursue his dreams of being a singer (one might say an artist mwahahaha). he ended up getting recruited and has made a pretty successfull career for himself. unfortunately for him it all turned out to be about him being very much marketable to the general public, not about his music. on top of all of that he never managed to get into an actual honest relationship (where the other person wasn't trying to utilize him for something) after severing his ties with everyone back in Land of Earth, so he ends up in the condition that we see him in the fic, pretty heavily depressed and in a borderline manic state

I don't know shit about idols, really, I only listen to the music from videogames and anime lmao, so all of the stuff about being an idol and what is expected of an idol is taken from what I once watched/read about the toxicity of idol culture in Asia

"Most of his face was covered by a simple black mask, a pair of sunglasses and a bright orange cap with "D.D." written in tiny shiny crystals" - D.D. standing for Darling Dei and the color of the cap is taken from Tobi's mask lmao. Yep, Obito wears Darling Dei merch. he actually bought the cap on the event venue. he follows Dei's socials pretty closely, but because he works a 9 to 5 job he can't exactly go to the concert as much as he wants, so this is his first one in a while, he's coming straight after work and he's finally found enough courage to buy flowers for his most favorite artist

regarding flowers: carnations are supposed to represent love, distinction, and fascination (which is what Obito would have probably asked for at the flower shop). however the seller probably assumed he's going on a date, so Obito has red carnations which symbolize romantic love

Obito obviously adores everything related to Darling Dei, he really loves his music and listens to it every day. as for his attraction… well, he's known that he likes both men and women for a while now, but with his scars he doesn't think he'll ever have much success with anyone, so he's accepted that he'll be alone for the rest of his life, save for something quick every once in a while. obviously, he believes that Dei is way out of his league which is why he's so shy and scaredy when Dei suddenly does pay attention to him of all people

Deidara is a workaholic though ahahaha. but he's mostly into guys, never revealing it to anyone that might be dangerous to him or his persona (and really he's into men with large heart that'll be honest, silly and whimsical around him, soooo Obito hahaha)

"S-sorry, it's kind of overwhelming for me, I didn't expect to actually meet you today…" Oh, darling , you've got no idea what is waiting for you in my make-up room. "I'm so, so, so sorry for wasting your time like that, can you sign it for… ehm… Tobi?" Deidara starts on "to" when the guy swears again and wipes his forehead with his palm. "No-no-no, please, god, I'm so sorry, can you do it for Obito?" - Tobi is the nickname that Obito uses on forums related to Dei, so he's pretty used to being called that whenever he's in that kind of situation, but then he realizes that he's a fucking dumbass and he's got Dei in front of him, so he should do it for his real name

I have no idea how people post their fics without editing, because mine are absolutely terrific pre-edit. mostly because I write on the phone in my bed before sleep + I don't use T9 + English isn't my first language, so half of editing is just replacing the same word splattered everywhere with its synonyms. but a particularly funny issue that I had several times already is messing up minor details in a weird way. this applies to chapter 4 of FQTP, with the lighting in Obito's lab (pre-edit it was like a disco room with how many times I apparently changed the color of the room), and here this applies to Obito's flowers (I think after using carnations for the first time I literally fucking forgor that I needed to use them, so I had different flowers later that certainly weren't carnations) and Deidara's costume (I think I ended up giving him all white clothes to symbolize innocence or smth, a leather jacket, a ripped t-shirt and jeans. i think the nails were white too? bruh)

also another headcanon that I'll be shoving everywhere: Deidara starts blushing with his cheeks, while Obito with his ears :)

"the man gulps with a jump, likely after the girl directly behind him shoved him pretty roughly with her tin badge covered bag" - that was supposed to be that girlie's Darling Dei ita-bag

"the only thing that could pass as it was a bowl for candies (which he promptly dumped behind the couch)" - I love the two of them being absolute idiots in any universe, so I couldn't hold myself back with this one. yep, Deidara, dumping a bowl of candies to drop the flowers in is certainly a plan

"Well, it's a relief that I can still find some success among men, so thank you for your kind words, Obito," Deidara has to throw a quick glance towards the cap on the table to make sure that he says the correct name" - I make a point to minimize Deidara refering to Obito by his name here all the way until they return to the couch and Obito shows what a good supportive top he is. before that to Deidara he's just some guy/man/whatever he wants to use to destroy his persona. he is pushing away the guilt by ignoring that Obito might be someone who truly cares and has something to live for

unfortunately that also meant that I almost drove myself insane from the amount of "he/him/his" in here, because this is my first time posting something with both of them being guys and really the hardest thing was to make sure that the pronounces make sense

also first time writing gayge sex. at this point no idea if it's good. f/m sex is kinda easier to write tbh

"It's all been recorded and now the first bomb to destroy the foundation of Darling Dei has been planted." - i giggled a bit when I realized I could slap a juicy bomb reference because Deidara is always Deidara

"Obito unbuttons his shirt, revealing to Deidara's surprised eyes his chest that looks strangely mismatched. It's not that the right side has the same terrible scars that his face does, it's more like… skin grafts? Yeah, that's more like it." - so this thing here has quite the history behind it. Obviously, if we're doing a modern AU, Obito's incident needs to be changed because ain't no way he survives it the way he does it in canon. Whenever I don't like thinking too deep about it, I just settle on a car crash with Obito's right side ending up pretty badly mangled in the debris. Now here's where we run into another issue - Obito's scarring, because he should end up with scars throught his whole body, not just his face. And this is where I like to utilize a headcanon that I read in here random lore drop but I've been reading Obidei for like 10 years before deciding to write anything and this fic is something that I return to every few years if not every year because this is like THE fic for me. it's only recently been reposted on AO3, so don't be surprised at the date, it's actually from like 2013-2014. I highly recommened checking out Tione Jade's other works too, they are the bar that I am aiming for with my writing, whether it's the plot, the drama or the jokes and shitposts. yes, it's all in Russian, but this is your opportunity to feel the true "sorry English is not my first language" experience which is put the link of the fic into Google Translate and enjoying whatever you manage to understand in the end. But back to the Bang - the fic above suggested a very curious explanation as to why AU Obito would end up without scars on his body and yet the scars on his face would remain - Obito actually had them, but later an operation was done on him and the damaged skin was replaced with skin grafts, however it was too risky to do on the face (losing the ability to move his facial muscles is pretty bad), so Obito has whatever he has

"What do you mean by "you know when things get rough", hm?" - before that Deidara uses his persona, Dei, to speak, but now, after getting to know Obito closer, the facade drops and Deidara starts to use his usual grunts at the end of the sentences

"My relatives took me in when the hospital finally released me, they even moved into the same neighborhood that I lived in just so I could continue studying in the same school I used to. They paid for all of my treatments, even found me a surgeon who could fix up my scars. Most of them, anyway, the ones on the face were a lost cause, too close to the facial nerves," Obito tiredly brushes his index and middle finger against the deep lines scattered over the only side of his face that Deidara could see right now. "Two of my closest friends would visit me every day to help me with my homework or just hang out." - tiny cameos for Uchiha family, Kakashi and Rin

"Well, excuse me, but in my opinion most of your fans are idiots, Dei," Obito raises his index finger in self-importance. "I hope you've never had to talk to them on the forums, seriously, I tried to talk with them about how "To End with a Bang" is supposed to be the pinnacle of your writing, but those morons were more interested in discussing which one of your concert costumes was the sexiest one." - Obito would absolutely go on the internet and argue for hours on forums. he just screams this energy

the sando sanditches is just something I saw in youtube shorts from japanese supermarkets and i wanna try them so badly. alas, no such luck

and that's it for Obidei week notes! now onto usual stuff which is BSSM au >:)

[ungoliantschilde]

Let There Be Rock, 1977.

I am not saying this lightly. The best AC/DC records, are (in this order) 1. Let There Be Rock. 2. Powerage. 3. Back in Black.

This record is a reverential hymn to the glorious majesty of rock. It’s perfect. It’s an improvement on TNT. The best song on it is one they’ve never played live and never will.

Phil Rudd was the drummer on this one and basically from here on out. People who criticize Phil Rudd call his playing simplistic and uninspired. One: fuck them. Two: try to play the drum track for “Let There Be Rock”. Six Minutes at 120-130 BPM. Don’t speed up, don’t slow down, and don’t miss. Play six perfect minutes. Good luck. Ok, now play those six perfect minutes 2/3 of the way through a 2 hour live show. Phil Rudd is the Ringo Starr of hard rock. You could set an atomic clock to that guy’s timing. And he plays with a groove.

The standouts are the title track and “Whole Lotta Rosie”. They played ‘Rosie live on Aussie TV from some gymnasium venue. On National TV, Bonny announced the song as, “This is a song about the time I had a great big fat chick from Tasmania.”

But those standouts aren’t my picks.

“Bad Boy Boogie” is Angus’s signature song. Live versions sometimes reach up to 20 minutes. Lots of solos, and Angus famously used the song as an opportunity to do a slow dance strip tease, ending with him pulling his shorts down to reveal a pair of boxer briefs emblazoned with the flag of the country they were playing in at the time. When Angus dies, the Bad Boy Boogie covers are gonna be done by the bands that loved his music best.

The opening track, “Go Down”, is a barroom stomp. And the lyrics are Bonny’s enduring love letter to his favorite sexual activity - getting his pole smoked. The album opener is a barroom stomp about getting head. Fuck yes do I love AC/DC.

And my pick for the best track on the album, and my favorite AC/DC track EVER is a B-Side that they never played live. AC/DC’s mission statement, as musicians, is to make riffs that sound simple and then beat those chords into your soul. That’s “Overdose”. It’s 3 fucking chords and it makes me bop my head and stomp my feet like a man possessed.