#WOW! I mean I am WOW speechless to be honest

[galactic-pirates]

[final-script]

Take It Or Leave It… |LN4

Pairing: Lando Norris x  Leclerc!Reader

Sumary: Where you love your brothers but…

Warnings: English is not my first language !!!There are probably many mistakes (I will correct them later)

Gif: sebxvettel

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

In her final moments, Hervé made them promise her older children that you would take care of their younger sister.

He made them promise that they would not let anything happen to her and that they would always be for her.

And wow they did… They treated you like a princess.

You could say you couldn't complain about anything… except for one thing.

Since you have use of reason and since you started having some "dates" you had begun to "hate" your brothers, there was no date that they did not ruin.

You had talked to your mom about it and she said that they were just trying to protect you, that they don't misunderstand you, you understood them and you were more than grateful to them.

But… You wanted to be able to experience the power you were with someone, however with your brothers, it was becoming impossible, they scared every boy you were with.

And to be honest, that was beginning to arouse you, to such an extent that you began to hide things from them.

Only your mother and Enzo, (which we can say that despite being the oldest, he was the least overprotective of the 3), were the ones who knew some things.

At the end of the 2022 season you had started to meet with Lando, he treated you wonderfully, enjoying every moment with him.

Very afraid to start something at first, but eager too.

I understood from the beginning that you want to keep the relationship private, unless you were sure that theirs was solid enough.

(…)

The moment they talked and decided to start telling it, the first to know were, their parents and your mother.

Perosas who respected their decision, but who recommended that at some point they should tell your brothers.

(…)

L- do you think you can go to Silverstone?

Y/N- of course, I will be like in every race.

L- with me. I leave myself speechless - it is my home race and in addition to my family, I would like to have you by my side, it's okay if you don't want to, I'll understand.

You could see a look of discouragement on his face.

Y/N- go with you, I was only surprised that you chose your home race to want to tell everything, I thought you wanted a little tranquility in the midst of all the chaos and considering that it will also be official in front of my brothers, even more.

L- chaos is something I am used to, I can handle it, on your brothers, at some point they will have to know, I do not care what is now, If that means I can have you with me, at least for a career, but like I said, I understand if you don't want to, I've respected your decision forever and will continue to do so, if you want to.

Y/N- who I did to deserve you. I cradle his face in my hands. - I agree with what you say, at some point they will have to find out, you have always respected me and if you want to tell everyone now, okay, I can also get probecho of this situation, everyone will know that you are mine.

We both laughed and kissed.

L- I will talk to the team and let you know that we will be one more this time.

Y/N- and I must warn mom not to come with her. L- and your brothers?

Y/N- when we get together, you will have your own answers.

L-hope to survive.

(…)

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous, talking about making everything public was one thing, but doing it was something else.

As we got closer to the circuit, everything began to become real.

My head generated all kinds of scenarios.

But one that I was sure of and boy had I been thinking about it, for nothing in the world was going to let my brothers get into my relationship.

I loved being protected, but it's time they let me live.

I came back to reality when the car stopped.

L- are you ready?    I hold my hand before I get out of the car.

Y/N- list.          A short kiss before he came down to open the door for me like an English gentleman. 

As expected, many cameras turned to see us, so he took my hand tightly and together with his coach we entered the Paddock.

Inside, surprised looks and gestures were not lacking.

You had managed to calm down a little thanks to the grip of your boyfriend, but again the tension returned when in the distance and as if it were a joke, your 3 brothers were facing each other.

Y/N- I think now I should ask, are you ready?

L- I would be lying if I said yes, but... There is no turning back.

We were at the entrance of the hospitality of Maclaren and a few mentros was that of Ferrari, so as they had already seen us, we would simply wait for them to approach.

Finally they did, but before they spoke I stopped them. 

Y/N- before they start acting like they always do, stop, I'm not going to let them mess this time, not anymore, I understand that they want to protect me, but it's time for them to let me live, don't misunderstand me, I love them, but already vast.

Lando's arm encircled my waist in a supportive manner. 

Y/N- so... It's their decision, I take it or leave it, but I'm not going to part with it.   

Judging by his expressions, my words were not expected.

A- Since when?

CH- Lando and your…

Y/N- Enzo?      He was always the one who had something to say, but strangely he was completely silent.

E- I think I speak for all three, Where you hurt our sister, you are in serious trouble.

Lando released the air that had been contained and took the floor.

L- believe me, it's not in my plans.

Ch- since when?.   He seemed to have recovered from shock.

Y/N - at the end of last season.

A- maman, you know?

 L- she and my parents were the first to know.

CH- I think we can't say much more than what Enzo said, you'll damage our sister and most likely you'll get a slight touch on one of your wheels.       I opened my eyes greatly.

Y/N- CHARLES!!

CH- which?!?!, I'm just saying.

Y/N- no one will touch anyone.

Everything went better than I thought and I was grateful for that.

Although she was sure that they would not remain silent and corner Lando as soon as they had the chance.

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

ANOTHERS

The Best Kept Secret - Arthur Leclerc X Reader

Grateful, Excited and Expectant - Lando Norris X Reader

[spiderfunkz]

✦ SPEECHLESS.

— summary : peter's very charming, and incredibly straight-forward, but mostly charming.

— word count : 0,9k

— warnings : fluff, teasing, just peter being peter.

a/n : my requests are open for peter!! also this is so messy sorry i just needed to post something.

you groan, staring at the papers that your teacher just gave out earlier today. the words on the worksheet seem to be walking around, making it hard for you to read and understand.

you've been partners with peter before, this one being the third time. the second time you were partners was in biology, which was months ago, and the first time was in middle school, it still counts though.

he was always fun to be around. making jokes that come out naturally, he seems like he isn't trying to hard to be funny. he's smart, charming, handsome, pretty even, and being completely honest, he's totally your type.

but you've never tried to talk about that to peter. you didn't want to make things awkward, not when everything seems to be going perfectly fine for you.

"so. should i do the first five numbers? and you do the other five?" you ask. peter didn't reply, he was busy looking for the correct worksheet. did he even hear you?

"you know. just to make things faster and easier." you continue. you've always done that since middle school, it was a method you first suggested to peter so the work was finished faster.

"what, sorry?" he looked up. hands still moving around his backpack, digging for the right worksheet.

"should i do the first five numbers? i can start right now i already have the material." you repeat.

"oh, uh, yeah. i'll do the other five, just give me a minute." he gives you a smile before finally finding the right worksheet.

he mutters something you couldn't make out and started doing his part of the work.

he was oddly quiet this time. he's usually very energetic and talkative to you. but that was months ago, and the other time was in middle school. so you chose to ignore it and continue your work.

"why are you so quiet around me?" or. don't. ignore it. the words just slipped out of your mouth. you do tend to speak before thinking twice, whoops.

"huh?" peter looked up from his paper.

"i dunno. you just seem very, awkward."

"i'm not awkward."

"i mean you're so talkative during class and stuff." you shrugged.

"well. i guess you just make me speechless." peter shrugged, mimicking you, before looking back at his paper and continuing his work.

".. wow." your mouth was wide open. peter was clicking his pen, nervously.

"i'm speechless." you blinked. peter looked up from his paper quickly and replied, "yeah, no. i am so sorry."

"well, at least you had a sense of remorse." you smile, looking down, trying to hide the fact that your blushing.

"just for you." peter winks.

he immediately regrets it. "i'll. stop."

"no keep going." you smile.

"okay. i like you." peter replied, face blank.

you pause. "that's not what i meant by keep going."

"well. what did you want me to say?"

"it was more fun when you just sat there." you say, jokingly.

"well i was silently suffering and debating on whether i should confess to you right now or not. do you like to see me suffer?" peter replies.

"i'm saying you were just as cute when you were sitting silently, looking like a squirrel."

"you think i'm cute?"

"no." your face felt hot, you were 100% blushing.

"but that's what you implied. no?"

"well so what if i think you're cute?"

"nothing. it doesn't affect me." peter awkwardly sniffs.

he was silent for a bit.

you started smiling, "you blush with your nose, peter."

"what! no i don't!" he rubs his nose. you laughed, "rubbing your nose isn't helping, it just makes your nose more red."

"this is so embarrassing for you."

"stop it."

you smile. peter was still blushing. "for the record, i like you too."

peter paused, his hand still on his nose.

"speechless huh?"

"yeah." he smiles.

[hyper-fixated-delusions]

To be or not to be.

High school Wanda Maximoff x fem!reader.

A/N: I hope you enjoy and I apologize for any mistakes! Also comments, reblogs, shares and likes are super appreciated, thank you! :)

Translation: “Sestra.” Sister.

Word count: 1,034.

Masterlist.

So there Wanda was, standing by her locker talking to her friends when she spots you, her girlfriend, just a few feet away talking to your own friends looking as adorably cute as ever.

Which was completely unfair if you ask Wanda, since she is supposed to mad at you and you definitely shouldn't be looking as cute as you are looking right now because the only thing it does is cause longing in her heart for you, wanting to make up so she isn’t away from you for any longer.

But being the stubborn person that she is, the brunette does the only thing she allows herself to do. Which is continuing to stare at you from afar, bottom lip caught between her teeth as she nibbles on it.

As you stand laughing and joking around with your friends. You suddenly feel like someone is looking at you, so you glance around the halls, only for your eyes to land on your girlfriend who is staring at you intently from a couple of feet away. Lip between her teeth and a look you know all too well.

Which throws you off slightly if you’re being completely honest, since you were 100% sure Wanda has been mad at you for the past 5 days. But even in your confusion, you can’t help but shoot Wanda a soft smile and then proceed talking to Bucky, Peter and Sam again.

Wanda seeing your cute smile, can’t help but feel her resolve slowly break and after debating with herself for a good few minutes on whether or not to approach you. The brunette decides to take action and goes up to you.

“Hey, can we talk?” She asks once she’s in front of you.

You nod then turn to your friends, “I’ll catch you guys later alright?” You say, then walk away with your girlfriend.

Both of the girls make their way down the hall, when suddenly Wanda stops in front of the Janitors closet. Looking both ways to make sure no one is around, she opens the door.

“So what did you want to talk about?” You ask, but suddenly you’re yanked inside the closet by the hem of your shirt. “Wha-?” You begin but are cut off by Wanda’s lips basically attacking your own.

Wanda kisses you with such an intensity that when you pull back you’re left speechless, "wow," you breathe. “Not that I'm complaining, because I’m totally not, but what was that for?” You ask with a dopey smile, causing Wanda to glare at you with no actual malice behind her eyes.

“Oh no, don’t look at me like that!” Wanda says, arms crossing on her chest as she tries to remain serious, “because even though we did just make out inside this closet, it doesn’t mean that I'm not still mad at you, because I really am,” she frowns. “But you seriously just had to wear your glasses today, didn’t you? You know how I feel about you in glasses, it makes me weak!” She pouts, “Also the whole Star Wars shirt. Could you be any more nerdy? You look so cute and adorable that it hurts! You shouldn’t be able to break my resolve! Ugh!” The brunette rambles, arms thrown up in the air in frustration.

“I-I lost my contacts and Star Wars premieres this weekend, I’m sorry?” You say weakly, brows furrowed in confusion.

“I know, I figured as much,” Wanda sighs softly. “But you make it so hard to stay mad at you baby, and it’s beyond infuriating! So now I'm going to kiss you until l either feel angry again or we just go back to our day to day lives," the brunette says as she pushes you against the wall and cups your face to kiss you once again.

Both you and Wanda stay inside the closet making out for another good 10 minutes when you pull back slightly and say, “so, what's the verdict babe?”

Wanda rolls her eyes, a small smile on her lips as she says, “I'm no longer mad.”

“Okay good. So can we go back to hanging out with our friends?” You ask and Wanda nods.

As both girls walk out of the janitors closet, hand in hand and towards their friends, you stop walking for a moment to place a soft kiss on Wanda's forehead, the short brunette sighing happily as she moves forward to hug you close, an action that causes Natasha's voice to boom down the hallway.

“Hey Stark, you owe me 10 dollars!” The redhead exclaims.

“Damn it, you lovebirds! Couldn't you have waited 2 more days?” Tony yells back, looking at both you and Wanda disapprovingly, causing you to pull apart and walk the short distance to the group.

“Wait, what?” You ask with a laugh once you’re standing in front of your friends.

“We were all betting to see how long you'd stay mad at each other. The majority of the group said 1 or 2 days, I said 5 and Tony said 7. So I win!” Natasha boasts, with a happy smirk.

“Okay, how about this! Bonus round, did Wanda cave or did Y/N actually do something to get out of the dog house? Another 10 bucks says it was Y/N,” Carol says.

“No way, it was definitely my sestra,” Pietro chimes in with a smirk.

“Nope, Y/N!” Steve exclaims.

“Nah, there’s no way, it was totally Wanda!” Clint exclaims.

“Wow, I'm glad our problems amuse you all,” Wanda deadpans with an eye roll.

“So since Tony and I were actually the closest, this is between us two and my money is on Wanda caved, what about you Tony?” Natasha says.

“Y/N, did something.” Tony says, eyes squinting with certainty.

“So what is it?” All the friends exclaim at the same time.

You wince slightly while looking at Tony and say, “sorry Tony, but Wands caved,” and all through the hall there are loud echoes of both celebration and disappointment which causes you to slightly grin.

“Nice, now pay up, playboy,” Natasha smirks, hand stretched out towards Tony.

“Damn you, red,” Tony grumbles as he hands Natasha a 20 dollar bill.

[in-my-loki-feels]

🔁😂💯💘📚

*cracks knuckles* Here we go! From this ask game.

🔁 A fic you’ve re-read several times

This feels like an impossible question because I've re-read quite a few. I narrowed it down to a few options, but I'll save one of those for if I get asked the 😭 question and offer a full fic rec and two drabbles.

touching the horizon by @astrosxnthesis

"Have you been wounded by the Loki S2 finale? Then you may be entitled to compensation in the form of fics that pick you up, dry your tears, and offer solutions." This fic fits that bill! It's sweet, funny, has delicious emotional hurt/comfort, and it's a clever take on how Lokius could be reunited.

2. It's no secret that I love President Loki so I've re-read a lot in that tag. Allow me to highlight chapters 30 (SFW) and 66 (NSFW) of For All Time? Always by chaircat (not sure of their tumblr name).

Not only do these both feature President Loki, but both (definitely the second, but also the first imo) are Loki/Mobius/President Loki, which I find very fun. 😈 And there's just not enough of it!

😂 A fic that made you laugh out loud

Footsies by @devilbearingtrouble

I rarely laugh out loud when reading (though I might be chuckling to myself), but the way the tension builds so innocently in this one set me up so that when I hit one line in particular, I actually went, "Ha!" out loud. Love it when writing can do that. 😂

💯 A fic that makes you think #writergoals

This one's easy! I was just thinking along these lines while reading @doomed-spectacles latest, Paper trail. Or, traces of you. Just, wow. Their blend of humor and tenderness and spice floored me. The prose rendered me speechless. It's the kind of fic that, after reading, makes me sit back and go, "What am I doing with my (writing)life?" And I mean that in the best way possible!

💘 A fic you couldn't stop reading once you started

Kneel for Me by @ceeceetv. I saw the post while I was getting ready for bed and even though my partner had already put his phone away and gone to bed, I stayed up and kept reading because I. Could. Not. Stop. I knew if I tried to save it for the next day, I was just going to lie in bed, unable to sleep, because I couldn't stop thinking about it. And I'm still not done thinking about it, to be quite honest!!

📚 A fic you wish you could display on your bookshelf

I love this question because to me, it's about picturing what the fic would look like if bound, and I think your spirit box would have the raddest cover and super cool interior illustrations, a la Starling House (but maybe I'm influenced by that also being a book with a sentient house.)

I feel like I need to give a special shoutout to The Storyteller Saga by @kcscribbler because after @izumiyagami14 went and made the dang thing a real book, how could i not want that on my shelf??

[never-be-tamed]

I find myself often reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared, and I am filled with immense gratitude and love for you. There are not enough words to express how much you mean to me, but I hope this message captures even a fraction of my appreciation for you. From the very beginning, you have been my anchor, my rock, and my constant source of strength. Your unwavering support and belief in me have given me the courage to face even the darkest of days. You see the best in me, even when I struggle to see it in myself, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Your humor lights up my life. I love how you can make me laugh even in the most serious moments. Your jokes, your playful teasing, and even the way you pout when things don't go your way – all of these make my heart swell with joy. You bring so much happiness into my world, and I cherish every laugh we share. I am also deeply touched by your kindness and compassion. You have a way of making everyone around you feel valued and loved. Your generosity knows no bounds, and I am constantly in awe of your ability to give so selflessly. You inspire me to be a better person, and I am proud to stand by your side. Even more, I am moved by your strength and resilience. Life has thrown many challenges our way, yet you face each one with grace and determination. Your courage in the face of adversity is nothing short of extraordinary, and it reminds me that together, we can overcome anything. But perhaps what I love most about you is your heart. You love so deeply and fully, and it is an honor to be the recipient of that love. You make me feel cherished and adored, and I want you to know that I feel the same way about you. Your love has transformed my life in ways I never thought possible, and I am forever grateful for the bond we share. Alex, you are my best friend, my confidant, and my everyrhing. I am so proud of the man you are and the man you continue to become. I am incredibly lucky to have you in my life, and I promise to always stand by your side, just as you have stood by mine. Thank you for being you, and for loving me so completely. I look forward to all the memories we have yet to make and the adventures that await us. You are my everything, and I love you more than words can say.

I— PLEASE send some love and appreciation to this wonderful woman, she deserves the whole load, the whole package of affection and kindness I MEAN SHE IS JUST WOW, SEE i am speechless again. 🤯

You are such a wonderful soul, I JUST WISH THAT YOU COULD SEE HOW WONDERFUL YOU TRULY ARE, I adore everything you are, shadow and light, good and bad, every aspect of you inspires me to be the man that you deserve and I'm trying my very best to be that man for you. And I love love love our honest and pure communication about anything and everything. I am so happy to have you with me, I wouldn't trade our bond for anything in this world. You showed me that it's okay to not always be that strong, that I don't always need to make sense, that it's okay to have days where I don't feel my best, to let the mask fall that I was wearing for so long, that it's okay to make mistakes that I can grow from in the end. You show me so much. And I love love love our journey so far and I'm sure I will love everything there is to come. Everything we went through, lead us to each other. And I would do it all again, in a heartbeat, all that struggle, heartbreak and shit just so I can be with you and near you in the end. I love you so much Babes. Thank you for being you, for being by my side through thick and thin, THANKS TO YOUR PARENTS FOR BRINGING SUCH A GREAT SOUL INTO THIS WORLD, INTO MY WORLD, I LOVE YOU ENDLESSLY, WHOLEHEARTEDLY AND TRULY.

And... since you love it so much and it makes you laugh (🙄) :

[missjanjie]

100 Prompts #3

the first prompt list of the new year! yall know the drill, send a number + ship (and au/trope if applicable)

“I’m happier than ever, honest.” 

“Do you ever think about me? About us?”

“Just be cool, act natural.” 

“You’re lying. Tell me you’re lying.” 

“No, I’m not okay.”

“Please? I’ll make it up to you.” 

“I wish I’d never laid eyes on you.”

“You have to admit, we’d be hot together.”

“I said I’m in love with you!”

“You are… really something else.” 

“I didn’t know you could do that.”

“Make me.”

“We’re gonna get caught.”

“I can’t do this anymore, I have to go.”

“You started without me?”

“I had nowhere else to go.”

“Please, just hold me.” 

“Explain it to me like I’m five.” 

“I never meant for any of this to happen.” 

“You broke me.”

“I have to go after them.”

“They say you’re trouble.”

“I don’t need your pity.”

“You have to promise not to fall in love with me.”

“You’re leaving? Now?” 

“I don’t think you even know what you want.”

“They’re the one that got away.” 

“I’m not trying to be your friend, I’m trying to fuck you.”

“How long have you been standing there?”

“They’d kill me if they knew.”

“You’re not dying, you have a crush.”

“Are you always this oblivious?”

“When I’m with them I’m thinking of you.” 

“Fuck, it’s locked!” 

“Don’t start singing. For the love of god, don’t start singing.”

“What do you want me to do, get on my knees and beg?”

“Heard you were looking for me.” 

“Ignore me all you want, you can’t un-fuck me.”

“I can’t give you anything but time.”

“Why are you naked?” 

“Oh my god, you’re in love.”

“I swore I’d never fall in love again… then I found you.”

“Jealous? I’m not jealous, I just think they can do better.”

“Do you have any idea how much self control it takes just to exist in the same space as you?”

“Just listen to me for once in your life.”

“Come on, you said you’d behave today.” 

“I think I misunderstood the assignment.” 

“Whose baby is that?”

“Call me tomorrow if you’re still alive.”

“You’re the love of my life… just maybe not this life.”

“That’s not what you said last night.” 

“I’m on my fifth White Claw, that’s the kind of night this is.” 

“Why are you bleeding?” 

“Damn, you look like shit.” 

“You weren’t supposed to see that.” 

“I know it’s three am but I couldn’t let you be sad by yourself.”

“Can I touch you?” 

“Run away, run and find something better.”

“All I wanted was you.”

“I think I just met my soulmate.” 

“There’s nothing more to say.” 

“What happens next?”

“Stop, you’re wasting your time.”

“I don’t know how to be fine without pretending.” 

“Oh. I didn’t realize you moved on.”

“I thought you were dead!”

“You can’t keep kissing strangers and pretending it’s me.”

“Uh oh, you’re listening to your extra-angsty playlist, I see.”

“Aren’t you a little old to be playing hard to get?”

“Don’t settle for me.” 

“Ugh, just kill me now.” 

“I haven’t seen you smile like that in a long time.”

“We can learn to love again.” 

“All you needed to do was ask me to stay.”

“You… You just kissed me.” 

“What’s a pretty thing like you doing in a place like this?”

“Stop being so stubborn and let me help you.” 

“I’ll believe that when I see it.”

“That… is an interesting choice.”

“Well, let’s make another bad decision while we’re here.” 

“I’m bored. Wanna make out?”

“Okay, I guess we’re doing this.” 

“Wow… I’m speechless.” 

“Let’s see what you’re made of.”

“I just need some air.” 

“I’m tired of you treating everything like a joke.”

“Holy shit, do you ever stop talking?”

“It finally feels like my life has meaning.” 

“I never stopped loving you. Not for a second.” 

“I’m happy as long as you’re mine.” 

“It’s my first time.” 

“Believe me, I didn’t want to fall in love with you.”

“One of these days, you’ll have to stop lying to yourself.”

“It’s now or never, baby.”

“The fact that I can’t have you makes me want you more.”

“You have a choice to make, better get it right.” 

“Oh, honey, I was born for this.”

“How high did you have to get to come up with that one?”

“I feel like I’m too old to be dealing with a crush.”

“I hate that your smug attitude is turning me on.”

[ant-thebooknerd]

Hey guys, here's another chapter from my Wattpad book. This one is set after Believe Me, and from Warner's POV. Features Kenji and Warner friendship. There will be a part 2 to this, but it will probably take a while.

"Hey buddy, guess what?"

I roll my eyes. I am standing in the common room tent, or what Kenji calls the "VIP dining room". Nazeera and Ella are gone for the day, and I am on special orders from my wife to hang out with him. 

If I had to be honest with myself, I do not hate him as much as I once did. I would still rather impale myself on a pike than admit that to him, but still. Progress is progress. 

"What do you want, Kenji?" I reply, already bored of him. 

"I got us matching friendship bracelets!" says Kenji, a big bright smile on his face. 

I almost manage to choke on air. I turn around to fully face Kenji and look up at his grinning face. For the first time in a while, I am left speechless. I try to speak, but all that emerges is a series of incoherent stutters. Any sense of dignity and composure abandons me faster than my father did. Did this grown man just-

The idiot in question is doing his absolute very best not to laugh at my expression. However, his 'absolute very best' isn't good enough, (like everything else about him) and he explodes into a wave of hysterical laughter. 

"Excuse me? You, a delusional grown man, just asked me, who is only here to fulfil the wishes of his wife, and who wants absolutely nothing to do with you, to wear matching bracelets? Do you even realise-!?"

"Okay, okay!" Kenji cuts me off, hands in the air, feigning innocence. He is still chuckling. "Wow man, I didn't think you'd get so worked up. Ouch! It's alright, we'll work towards it."

I would very much like to retract my previous statement of not hating him. The world is a better place without Kenji Kishimoto.

I shake my head, embarrassed at my outburst. I should have expected this type of behaviour from the moron. "No, not a chance," I tell him, much calmer.  "Now, let's decide on something to do together that will require minimal contact and communication but enough so that we can tell the girls we hung out." 

Kenji looks down at me. My height is not something that makes me feel insecure, but I loathe how I have to look up at him.

 "Really man? That is the only reason you want to hang out? To please Juliette? Don't tell me it's got nothing to do with our growing friendship." he says, grinning. 

I sigh. It is clear that Kenji considers us to be friends, and I have to agree that we have gotten a lot closer since my wedding to Ella. That doesn't mean I am happy about it. 

"I suppose I can truthfully say that I do not wish you a miserable and painful death. I do not quarrel with you dying, but perhaps not painfully. But don't get me wrong, I will not miss you."

Somehow, he finds that funny.

"Sure, man. Do you want to play UNO?" he asks, amused, taking a red cardboard box out of his pocket. I do not know why he would carry such a thing around, but he has done many other even more questionable things, so I let it slide.

"UNO? As in, the number one in Spanish?" I say. I look closer at the box he is holding, from which he takes out two piles of colourful cards.

"Well, aren't you just a fun, shining ray of sunshine," he replies before he shuffles the cards.

Ten minutes later, we are halfway through a round, and I now know all the rules of UNO, which I only agreed to after finding out Juliette enjoys this game.

Kenji places down a Blue 2, having seven cards left in his hand. I have three. A Blue Skip, a Blue 6 and a Blue 8. I am feeling pretty confident, and place down my Skip card followed by my 6, and say "Uno,". All I need is for him to put down a blue card, or nothing. There is no prize to be won from this game, but I will greatly enjoy beating Kenji.

He puts down a Red 6. "Idiot," I tell him. I pick up a card, and it is a Yellow 3. I was so close.

His turn. Red Skip, taking my turn. Green Skip, taking it again, then a Green +2. I scowl and pick up my two cards. A Blue 7 and Red +2. 

Apparently, many people play differently, but the way Kenji was taught says that you are not allowed to play a card the same turn you just picked up one. 

He also told me he used to play with his parents.

Red 9 is what he puts down. I have no cards that I can respond with, so I pick up another card. A Red 4. My dreams of winning this game of UNO fade away more and more with each card I pick up. 

"Brainless delinquent," I mutter under my breath, just loud enough for him to hear.

He places down a +4 and says "UNO", but it doesn't matter. This is my chance. My chance for redemption. To avenge my lost UNO. Payback.

I throw down my Red +2 and stare him down. This is what he gets for trying to beat me, for thinking he even stood a chance. Now he has to pick up 6 cards and it's all ove-

A +4 card falls from his hand on top of my +2. He...wins?

Kenji jumps up from his chair and starts cheering. "Woohoo! Guess who just won! Me, motherfucker! Yeah! I win! Take that, you insufferable dipshit!"

"Moron!" I snap back. "This is a game of luck. Rest assured, if it came down to skill, I would have destroyed you within two minutes."

"What I'm hearing is a sore loser!"

"I am not a sore loser! You uneducated swine!"

"Ha, look who is breaking out the meaningless insults. Ran out, Warner? Got nothing to insult me on?" He taunts.

"Not at all, I simply have too many. For example, you incompetent imbecile, you have absolutely zero fashion sense. Those sneakers do not at all go well with those trousers, and your shirt doesn't even match your skin tone. Amateur!"

To my regret, Kenji actually looks down at what he is wearing. It is a grey T-shirt, black joggers with three white stripes down the side, and black runners. Overall, it is not too bad, especially considering the available options here, but I had to respond in some way.

"Okay, well my bad that I grew up at Omega Point and never got the chance to even buy my own clothes. What would you know about that, knowing that you probably have closets full of colour-coded clothing, made from the finest silks and materials?" He mocks.

"You're overexaggerating," I reply. It is mostly suits.

"And you're an inconsiderate ass. When the hell did I ever have the chance to find myself some decent clothes? Definitely not while the world was going to fucking hell and it was up to us to fix it. Fuck off." 

He looks genuinely upset. I realise, too late, that he is right. At the same time, I hate him for making me feel bad.

I sigh. "I apologise for that last comment. It is not your fault, nor is the outfit as bad as I said."

I feel the shift in his mood when he asks me "What's wrong with it?"

The question surprises me. I would not have expected him to care what I think, but he recognises that I know my way around the wardrobe. 

Also, since he started dating Nazeera, I have noticed subtle changes in his life. He started styling his hair a bit neater (she always ends up ruffling it, but I think that's the point), going to the gym (they have a small one at the Sanctuary) a lot more and doesn't swear as often. I do know about the deal he made with Castle, but he seems to be sticking with it a lot better since Nazeera started giving him dirty looks when he swore. I am pretty sure Castle told her to do that.

Whatever it is, he is a lot more put-together nowadays but could be a lot more so if he changes his style. That is something I could help with. But, am I willing to use my free time, my knowledge and my clothes to help this idiot?

I am shocked to find that the answer is yes. I want to say that it is because he is friends with Ella, but I do not lie to myself. He was there for me during the break-up, during my panic attack, was with me when we saved Ella from Oceania and was right beside me for my wedding. 

I check my watch, a wedding gift from Nazeera. 

"Ella and Nazeera said they will be back by 9:00 pm, which leaves us with just over 4 hours. We can go to my house and fix your fashion disaster."

His eyes go wide. "Wait, actually? You'll help me out with this?"

"Let's go," I say, my back already turned from him, walking out of the tent. "Before I regret this."

Welp, here's this! I really don't know much about fashion so someone (me) is going to have to do some research before writing Part 2 to this or  find a way to write so that her obvious lack of fashion sense doesn't show. Hope you enjoyed!

[maul-of-shame]

Hello Bucky!!!

I just had to reach out after reading your story "Gilded Choices". I'm at chapter 6, part 1.

To be completely honest, I was genuinely confused at first about the idea of pairing Elrond and Galadriel. I genuinely couldn't picture those two together but I chose to give it a shot, at least read your prologue and maybe a chapter.

But you managed to do something truly amazing: not only did you make me believe in this ship, you made me fall in love with it.

Your writing is so beautiful, poetic, and immersive; every scene felt real.

It feels like I'm here in the scenery, when I read your works, your scenes.

When they were standing on that damn stage, it felt like I was in the crowd. When they were arriving in the Capitol, parading, it felt like I was watching from backstage. When they had that beautiful, angsty, emotional fight about Celeborn and his treatment of Galadriel, I was in that damn room.

I don't know how you do it, I genuinely don't. But whatever it is, your technique(s), you made me fall in love with those two, even when I was apprehensive about it.

The way you captured their dynamic is beyond words. You gave each of them such depth, passion, and nuance that their connection felt completely organic, and their love story became one of the most heartfelt ones I've read in a long time. Nearly want to say you've added even more depth to the bond shown in season 2 of ROP.

Their touch, the eyes and gazes, the elvish during important moment, his devotion to her, her fierce protectiveness of him, just...

I am speechless.

Every choice they made, every sacrifice, felt so real and moving. You managed to mash-up Middle-earth with the raw, intense world of The Hunger Games in a way that brought out layers I never expected, blending the two worlds seamlessly. And I say that as a Hunger Games fan.

You’re such a gifted author, truly. I’m in awe of your talent and dedication, your ability to craft something so unique and rich. It’s clear how much love and passion you put into every line, and it’s inspiring as a reader to experience something so thoughtfully written. Your characters, world-building, and sheer artistry have stayed with me long after I finished that recent chapter.

Thank you for sharing this story and for all the hard work you're pouring into it. It’s authors like you who remind me why I love to read. I can’t wait to see what other worlds and stories you create next, and the next chapters of this beautiful story – I'll be there, reading and in awe.

Genuinely, thank you so much for Gilded, I don't know what pushed you to write it, but this is such a diamond and the fact we can read this masterpiece for free-

E.S_

Oh wow!!🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 You have no idea how much this message means to me; I’m actually blown away right now, like FULLY on the floor, trying not to melt into a puddle over here!T-T🥹

I’m so glad you decided to give Elrond and Galadriel a shot!! When I first started writing them, I was nervous about pulling off the dynamic, but hearing that it resonated with you like this—gosh, thank you SO much!!!💖💖

And can I just say, it’s so amazing that you feel like you’re right there in the story?! That’s what I dream of as a writer—to make everything so vivid and real that you’re in the world with them, feeling every moment, every emotion!

I’ve poured my whole heart into this, and knowing it’s landed with you like this… 🥹 I thought my chapters were too long or too detailed (30k for some chapters like-) so thank you sm for the love!!!T-T💖💖💖💖

The fact that you picked up on their nuances, the way they navigate each other and the world around them—that’s just EVERYTHING to me. I was practically yelling when I read that you connected with their story so deeply!!! They’re such special characters to me, and it makes me ridiculously happy to know that it’s all coming through for you!!!!!

Thank YOU for such a heartfelt message!!T-T I’m gonna carry this with me and probably reread it whenever I need a reminder of why I do this!😊 I can’t wait for you to see what’s next—promise it’s gonna be a ride! I'm posting it tonight!!!💖

[theidiotwhowritesthings]

Hey JJ!

I’m the anon that requested the dancing with Din fic. I’m blown away! The way you write, how you characterise Din, every emotion that you portray pulls on my heartstrings. And this doesn’t just apply to the fic I requested - everything you write is truly unique. Your docs are a source of comfort to me and many others on tumblr, on ao3.

Not only that, but you’re so sweet and kind to all your followers and those who send you asks, I never feel afraid to send you an ask because you’re such a kind and open person.

Life is tough for me, for you, for all of us, so please never feel pressured to answer an ask or write/update a fic, please rest and take it on your own terms when you need to.

I love inevitable and afs SO DAMN MUCH. They way you characterise us, the softness of din, all of the fluff and angst really just makes me melt into a puddle. A lot of people (including me) turn to your fics as a source of comfort, warmth, and love. Something safe and secure. I’ll be honest, it’s like a cup of hot tea after a tough day. So thank you JJ, for everything.

I love you so much for the comfort you bring to me and so many others, you really brighten up my day :]

(And I’m also very glad I guessed correctly that you are a swiftie!! DWOHT is one of my favourite songs and the way you turned it into an amazing fic it breathtaking)

🫶🫶🫶

I am honestly speechless. Which is quite the feat because usually the difficulty comes in getting me to shut up. wow. just wow. W O W. I am foaming at the mouth feral with gratitude. Got me crying in the club? Nah, you got me crying in my living room on a Wednesday night in my ratty ass pajamas🥺

I am so so so so so glad you liked the oneshot! It was fun to write for sure and loved the inspiration for it. I was so torn b/c half my heart just wanted to do cute dancing fluff with Din, but the other half grabbed me by my melodramatic soul and said, "break their hearts". Luckily, at last minute I held off on the breaking hearts thing and instead chose a happy end lolol.

Your words seriously do mean the world to me b/c my anxiety always tries to convince me that I'm doing the same stuff as everyone else but not as good. So, thank you💜

Personally, I see every single message I get, no matter how small, as a gift. It takes time to type out a message or a comment or an ask and I am honored that anyone would take the time to talk to me. At the end of the day, I write because I truly love to write. However, getting to interact with y'all is the highlight of my day. Nobody in my day to day real life knows that I love writing so this is where I get to explore that and express what I love the most.

It is also my absolute honor to bring comfort to anyone who seeks it out! I love the idea that somebody would seek out something that I wrote to make them feel better on a bad day. I'm legit just touched😌

Anyways, just thank you again (to every single one of you honestly), but thank you anon for taking the time to write such a lovely and caring message b/c it was my 'cup of hot tea' after my touch day in the office today🥰

[xenomorphee3]

about your fic i just wanted to say that i have been reading since chapter 10 and i get excited every time you upload.. my mind can’t comprehend the fact that it’s about to end omg 😅

i have read so many quaritch fics but i can fully say that my all time favorite is yours. the description is so good that i truly don’t have words to describe how amazing it is and i can also say that it’s my favorite fic that i have EVER read. mind you, i started reading fics way back in middle school - from wattpad to ao3 and i’ve gone through so many fics but nothing can top yours. and i mean this truly. i fell in love with the ash navi clans, zu, and spider in particular and i LOVED the battle/war chapters especially when it was between neytiri and zu because writing fights must be so difficult yet you did it so effortlessly and reading it felt as though i was witnessing it in real time. and most of all, our man miles in this fic is just so well written… i’m speechless.

i also got to improve my english reading skills through this fic (english isn’t my first language)

however, now that its coming to an end i just wanted to say thanks for writing such an amazing fic. your fic deserves so much more recognition bc of how well it is written.

all the best and i hope you continue writing. this is quite long but i think writers like you that are so dedicated & talented need to be acknowledged & thanked more for their work ❤️

also, literally the only thing that helped me “relax” was by reading your fic during my finals AND mid term crisis 😭😭😭

**i highly recommend you add tags like “quaritch/reader” or “quaritch/original female characters” + “miles quaritch/original female characters” and other popular tags to help increase recognition bc i searched for those in the beginning !! happy to say i was here since chapter 10 🙏🏻

Wow. I need you to know that this comment is so incredibly validating and timely, truly. I don't have the words for how this has elevated me on a day that, to be honest, I really needed it. I have to say that my emotions have been wild as this story comes to its close. Swirling thoughts of "Oh my gosh why did I do this?" "Is it even good?" "Was writing this a good use of my time/worth it?"

But then I realize that comments like yours, and the fact that I was always joyed *while* I was actually doing the writing-- is the reason why I have continued. And that, yes, this has been worth it! And I am also sad and can't believe that it's coming to a close.

I am so exulted that you have enjoyed my story. And wow, since Chapter 10? That's early February! You're awesome ^_^ And hey, I may keep writing! Expect some details of what that might entail in the last chapter's story notes when it goes up.

But seriously. Thank you so, so, so much 💙 and I am also so happy my story has helped you with your English reading skills and got you through exams! I remember those days all too well, believe me haha

Also, I re-added those tags! (let me know if they're the correct ones). Thanks so much for looking out. I definitely had them in the beginning, I am not sure why I removed them lol

[hacked-by-jake]

Hello dear hbj!

I have seen your recent reblogs (about mental health and disorders) and just wanted to let you know that you are one of the kindest, loving, sweetest and most considerate people I have ever seen on tumblr. You are always so sensitive (what I consider a good thing!) while being honest and tactful, and I appreciate that. Your blog is full with love and good vibes and the world needs more of that. So, what I'm trying to say with my ramblings 😅 ... even though I don’t know how you are in rl, online you are definitely one of the bestest of people I had the privilege of meeting here and I wish you all the best on your journey through this world 💙

You rock! 🤘🏼

Oh Wow... 🥺 I'm speechless, tbh. Completely. I think this is one of the most beautiful things anyone has ever said to me. And these are definitely one of the most beautiful compliments I have ever received. 🥺 Well, to be honest, I’m pretty different in real life than here, in real life it’s sometimes not that easy to deal with me, tbh. And here, this became my own safe space. Although it’s the internet, the people here, in the fandom, are all so incredibly nice and kind and great. It gives me the opportunity to switch off and be just as nice as you are to me, I love that so much. I am quite different here because the people here are very different, much better, much nicer, just incredibly wonderful. All of you. 💚

I can’t believe it, I am so happy about this ask, your compliments and words make me so happy. Especially because this topic is quite difficult and unfortunately also, in my case, Borderline has quite a lot of prejudices and clichés. And also because far too few people are familiar with these diseases. And I think, as an affected person, it would be really nice if more people know about it. And when I reblog something like that, I’m always a little afraid that it annoys people or something, because it's actually a Duskwood blog, and most of the time it’s also connected with overcoming, but this topic is important to me and that’s why I talk about it. It really means a lot to me that you listen and read through what I post and that you take it seriously.

And that you took the time to write all these words, it just means everything in the world to me. I am often confronted with negativity and also with many people who can't deal with me or with whom I do not get along, or both. This makes it very difficult to have contact with people. And that’s why it is even more beautiful for me when not negative but positive is spoken about me. And the qualities you have listed are really wonderful and I am really happy that I make this appearance and that you describe me with it. 🥺

All of you are always so kind and loving and supportive. I love being with you on Tumblr and having such a nice time, and I love being with you all. ❤️

I can only return all your compliments to you. I don’t know you in real life either, but what I got to know from you here is exactly to say that you are really wonderful. You are so supportive and always understanding. And you always help everyone as much as you can, and I find that really incredible and the world needs more people like you. You’re funny and always so kind, and I’m really grateful that I got to know you here, and a little more on Discord. You are so great!!

And also a huge thank you for your words about my blog. Now that several have already said that it is so peaceful and always full of love, I might say this is a pretty safe place. And that’s exactly what it should be. What I want it to be. I never want to pull everything into the positive and pretend that everything is always perfect, because it is not. But I am still happy that so many people think so positively about my blog.

I would continue writing but then I would only repeat myself millions of times. 😅 So, again a huge thank you! Even if a thank you would never be enough to show my gratitude. It means so much to me that you took so much time to write all this to give me a smile. It worked really well. When I saw your ask, I admit, I lost two or three tears (How was that with sensitive? 😂) But they were tears of joy, just huge big thanks, you are wonderful, never let anything else tell you! 💚💚

Thank you, for everything! 🥺💚

[thedeathdeelers]

full credit to @paronoiccake for the parts in between “— —” because this is really awesome and I needed to go straight to the Juke Overlord so they would see it and love it.

— “So I was thinking

That scene in episode 4 where Julie finds Unsaid Emily and just goes

"I didn't know you were such a romantic"

I MEAN WHAT IS THE CONTEXT? Why did she immediately said that?

I'm just imagining like

A missing scene with the guys maybe watching a romcom with Julie and Luke mocks her for being so emotional and romantic

Idk I just need a missing scene explaining why Julie decided to make fun of Luke for supposedly being romantic

I wanna see him being like "no I don't like romance bla bla bla"

And Julie (and the guys let's be honest I love them) making fun of him for anything that could be a little tiny bit romantic

Like this scene was just the first time but it keeps happening

Luke cried watching like Romeo and Juliet or maybe Titanic or something else and the others exchange a look before going WOW LUKE YOU'RE SO ROMANTIC

Also

When Juke get together and Luke does a little callback to these moments?

"I didn't know I was such a Romantic, Julie"

Like he WASN'T romantic but now he is?

I don't know I just wanted to see this sorry for the rambling” —

THIS I love it so much and it’s so CUTE and I had to show you!! I think it’s really JukeboxTM of them and I know you’ve probably already seen the post anyway but JUKEBOXXXX

Anyway, happy “It’s almost Juke Jeudi” Tuesday

omg it me 🥺

the juke overlord 🥺 (this is amazing my new favourite nickname)

(the post in question)

no but like. listen. 1. luke is definitely a massive softy who is also massive romantic at heart he just doesn’t realise it yet cause he hadn’t met julie yet thank u 2. this boy for sure cries watching romcoms i mean he cried listening to ray talking about not wanting to MOVE (while talking to his deceased wife) and also he’s just. full of so many emotions it’s how he manages to write such bops yknow???

ANYWAY

i love a good callback moment and i am SO here for luke to finally do the “how the turntables” when he does a hella romantic thing and julie’s all speechless and blushing and he’s SO smug about it

(the boys will still find a way to tease him tho cause i mean c’mon. it’s them)

(or we could go the absolute opposite route and realise he’s an actual mess of a ghost-turned-human but it’s so clumsy and adorable that julie think THATS romantic and you just get reggie and alex shaking their heads at their friends)

THANK YOU FOR SHARING AND HAPPY JUKE JEUDI ON JEUDI

[cosmic-light-fics]

Okay....

I don't know how on earth I am only just know seeing this post. There I was, mindlessly scrolling through sydcarmy posts that I've already seen countless times. It's late, like super late, I am almost embarrassed to say how late it is right now. I wasn't even on my computer, I was on my phone. But then I saw this post. And I read it, top to bottom. Then I rose from my bed, grabbed my laptop, and now I am here to tell you this. This needs to be said and I like saying things so, here's the deal-

You are talented. This post is golden. It's a Holy Grail. A highly coveted treasure. Discovering this post was like discovering the lost city of Atlantis, like recovering and restoring all the destroyed texts from the Library of Alexandria. I don't know which Greek Muse blessed you with the inspiration for this post, but I am promptly on my way to offer a sacrifice in thanks to said Muse.

Rarely am I ever left speechless. Rarely am I ever so so so so sooooooo impressed with someone's interpretation of characters. It's so hard to capture the same cadence of the characters that we see on screen, and I think that fact applies doubly for writers, especially writers trying to convey these characters from The Bear. They are all in their own way so complex and their stories are so interwoven, as well as their interactions and what they mean to each other.

This post is so special in a variety of ways. It's everything I love about the show. It's all about characterization. You nailed it. All of it. Sydney Adamu is such a special character to me, from her awkwardness to her assertiveness to her complete understated compassion for others. This post emulates everything that I love about her, and somehow gives me more to love, adds on to it, adds more layers to already muti-faceted characters.

I saw what you said in the comments, about not thinking you had a good grasp on characterization for the characters enough to write stories for them. I think you do. I think you have the best grasp on characterization. I'm being completely hand-to-heart honest. You wrote this post like you knew the characters like the back of your hand. All of them, not just Sydney. From their motivations, to their reasonings, to their dialogue. Don't even get me freaking started on the dialogue! This?!?!?!?!!?!?!

(“can i ask you something? something corny and lame and gross?” “always.” “when did you, like, know?” “know what?” “like, when did you know that you loved me? like, not as a chef or a friend, but as... y'know.” “that’s very middle school of you to ask.” “shut up, i did warn you.” “…” “so?” “its, uh, i don’t, i don’t know.” “well, that’s rude.” “no, i mean, i can’t say its one moment because... it was all of them. together. like, one moment you’re staging and then everything happened and, and, keeps happening but the next thing i knew you were there and you always were there and i just knew that i never wanted you to not be there.” “that’s…. really, really, disgusting, and frankly, a little unprofessional.” “oh, fuck off.” “no, like, i knew you were obsessed with me, but wow, that is a whole new other level.” “fuck you, get off of me, don’t touch me.” “no no no, please—” “i let you into my family—” “let me?” “into my restaurant—” “i think you mean OUR restaurant—” “only for you to humiliate me in my own bed? how dare you.” “…are you sulking?” “…” “…carmy?” “syd?” “me too.” “…heard, chef. now come back here.”)

That was absolute fire, chef.

That dialogue brightened my day, cleared my skin, took me out on a date, proposed to me, opened up the heavens, let me see the universe, and reminded me of why I love this - writing and stories and fanfiction and meta. Reading this post took me back to my pre-teen years - like that scene in Ratatouille when that mean food critic had the ratatouille dish and it brought him back to his childhood - when the world of fanfiction was new and exciting and full of people just as passionate about fictional characters as I was.

This post is not me trying to push you to do anything. I am definitely not trying to pressure you into writing. But if you ever get the urge, if one day you think to yourself "Hey, that sounds like a good idea, I kinda wanna write that," and that little pesky devil on your shoulder says "Nah, you can't write that," read this post and tell that annoying a-hole called doubt that it can kick rocks.

If you ever decide to write anything for this show, let me know. I will be your number one supporter. I will root for you. Selfishly of course, because your writing is such a gift to me. So thank you for this post. It's truly, truly, truly amazing.

thinking about the specific moments where the berzatto family falls in love with sydney (because of course they do, everyone does).

for richie, it takes the end of the beef and right up till the opening of the bear to happen. he is full of contempt and grief when he meets her and all he knows is that when he looks at her face he is afraid. he doesn’t like that feeling. richie is not a man who finds himself fearful a lot, but she is everything he is not and nothing that he is and he hates himself for it. if she is what it means to be passionate, then what is he? is he nothing but an empty shell of mikey, stuck on earth to shake his fist at passing clouds, because how dare they move and continue on like mikey was nothing to them, as if he wasn’t the very point that the earth revolved around? everyone is leaving him behind, and she is proudly leading the pack. it’s not right. but then— he gets it. he talks to garrett and jess and chef terry and he sees sydney in every corner of that restaurant. the fear slowly is replaced with respect as the week goes on and he realizes that just because she’s good doesn’t mean she’s out to get him. that’s the berzatto upbringing in him doing the talking, but it doesn’t have to, because shes a berzatto now, maybe not officially (not yet, but mark his words, she will be) but she is, and that’s not how she does things. so, he lets her lead them into the future to something good and different and better.

for sugar, it’s instant. she was born to a mother who is triggered by her very existence, and it has hurt her all her life. she is full of love and the one person she wants to give it to the most doesn’t want any part of it. she was born to give but is surrounded by those who are afraid to even take it, to reach out their hand and meet her in the middle. and if they cant take then they themselves have nothing to give, so she gets used to being the one who has to force feed her love down their throats, because if no one does, if no one shows them that they are worthy of good things, then they will crumble (“if i just talked to him more—” “no, nat—” “if i had just—” “it’s not your fault, honey. it’s never been.”). but when she meets sydney, it’s like looking into a mirror. she sees her bright eyes and soft smiles and careful but strong hands and instantly recognizes her for what she is: a giver. and sugars heart swells with even more love than she thought possible, because finally, she’s not alone— there is someone else there to slowly, albeit subconsciously, take care of her crumbling family, to show them that despite what their mother may have taught them, its okay to not be okay (she tries her best not to cry when syd asks her if shes okay, but she does. and syd doesnt grab her face or yell at her or call her stupid. she makes her a meal. and sugar cries some more).

for cicero, the love isn’t instant, and it’s not even entirely love. she is strong and she is assertive, but that also makes her naive and a very expensive risk. she makes him curious for what’s to come, intrigued by the way she doesn’t back down from carmy whose voice so often mimics the berzattos that came before him (“you’re better than this, kid.” “i don’t know what i am.” “whatever it is, it’s not this.”). she's self assured and knows her place in the establishment and is unafraid to let people know it. it’s a refreshing change of pace from mikey, who often resorted to intimidation to get his way, or carmy, who’s anxiety envelopes him and distracts him from what’s right there in front of him. but she is not them. she is focused and on track and is willing to put in the work to get what she wants. he doesn’t visit the bear often, only drops by once in a while to deliver bad news or to fulfill a favour or to just enjoy some good food, but when he does, she is always there, dedicated to ensuring that carmy and michaels, and now, her dream stays alive. she is good for his family, and he trusts her to keep the berzatto spirit alive.

for michelle, it’s quite simple. she always looked out for carmy, their little bear, so when she meets her it’s a family thanksgiving party at the bear and syd stumbles out of the kitchen, obviously frazzled and a little sweaty (“carmy, im not ready, i didn’t even change yet and the turk—” “don’t worry, tina will take care of it, you look great, they’ll love you, they just really wanted to meet you—”), but she’s smiling. she’s a little awkward when she introduces herself, and michelle finds herself endeared by her nervous ramble (“it’s, uh, really nice to meet you guys. sorry, i didn’t know that i was going to be pulled out of the kitchen so soon. uh, im sydney. yeah, i guess carmy already told you guys, huh? um. im sorry, how are you related to the family again? i mean, i dont want to offend but it’s just. uh. well, you guys are just very... normal?”) and she’ll laugh and look at stanley and the two of them will think to themselves, good job carmy, she’s a good one, before telling syd something dumb and nonsensical about a genetic mutation and richie interrupts to tell michelle it’s not a genetic mutation it’s called being boring and syd will laugh and michelle will too, truly happy that their little bear found someone normal, a breath of fresh air within the smoke of their family.

for donna, it’s weird. it’s tense. they don’t meet for a long time. they don’t meet at the bear when it first opens and not at the bear even when it has found it’s footing, but by chance. they are somewhere mundane (a grocery store, a park, or maybe just the street) and there is no other family member around when syd meets the berzatto matriarch. she only knows what donna looks like from photos at sugars house because carmys apartment is devoid of any actual sentiment (although that has begun to change since she made him get an actual dresser and he dedicated one of the drawers to her stuff). she calls out to her by her name, and donna turns around startled. she doesn’t recognize syd, of course, who introduces herself and informs her of who she is to the family. when donna smiles it’s not a real one, and syd knows this, but it doesn’t deter her. she tells donna that her kids love her (“even after everything, nat?” “she’s our mother. its all that we can do.”) and that her kids are great (“carmy, you are not broken.” “im a little broken.” “no, listen to me, the fact that you are still here, means something. its something.”) and that there will always be a table for her at the bear (“chef, someones calling in for a reso for 1 but we’re all full up… except for—“ “yo, dont finish that sentence. table 7 for ms. berzatto is an indefinite booking. is that understood?” “yes, chef”). donnas smile fades and her chest fills with anger but just as she’s about to explode in typical berzatto fashion syd interrupts her. she has faced the bear many a time before and has handled herself with grace and dignity everytime, so this is no different. she smiles brightly and thanks donna for listening to her and hopes she considers coming in, because she’d really like to cook for her. she looks like she needs a good meal. she deserves one. she turns and walks away. donnas stomach growls. that night, table 7 is occupied for the first time since the bear opened its doors.

and carmy? well, there isn’t an exact moment. its a culmination of awkward partnership (“i don’t want to be shitty.” “okay, then dont be.”) and flawless teamwork (“the menu needs—” “already on it, chef.”) and nights unwinding at the bar down the street (“of course you drink an old fashioned.” “what’s that supposed to mean?” “nothing, it’s just very… tortured-chef-from-the-slums-of-chicago of you”) and spontaneous phone calls just to hear the others voice (“why are you whispering?” “i… don’t know. my dads home. its a habit.” “you’re 27.” “and you’re white, you wouldn’t get it.”) till they’re just inseparable (“cousin, wheres carmy?” “with syd, duh.” “why'd i even ask?”). and then, sydney and carmen become something else. something tender and sweet and terrifying and beautiful all mixed together into… something. there’s no word for what they have. but it feels so right; to the guests who taste their food and recognize that the hands who put it together are full of love and care; to the staff at the bear who see the unspoken communication, the lingering touches, and their soft eyes that seem to always be on the other; to the berzatto family who notice that carmy looks a little brighter, and shakes a little less. yes, its love, but its so much more. it’s syd and carmy. it always has been, and always will be.

(“can i ask you something? something corny and lame and gross?” “always.” “when did you, like, know?” “know what?” “like, when did you know that you loved me? like, not as a chef or a friend, but as... y'know.” “that’s very middle school of you to ask.” “shut up, i did warn you.” “…” “so?” “its, uh, i don’t, i don’t know.” “well, that’s rude.” “no, i mean, i can’t say its one moment because... it was all of them. together. like, one moment you’re staging and then everything happened and, and, keeps happening but the next thing i knew you were there and you always were there and i just knew that i never wanted you to not be there.” “that’s…. really, really, disgusting, and frankly, a little unprofessional.” “oh, fuck off.” “no, like, i knew you were obsessed with me, but wow, that is a whole new other level.” “fuck you, get off of me, don’t touch me.” “no no no, please—” “i let you into my family—” “let me?” “into my restaurant—” “i think you mean OUR restaurant—” “only for you to humiliate me in my own bed? how dare you.” “…are you sulking?” “…” “…carmy?” “syd?” “me too.” “…heard, chef. now come back here.”)

(and it’s unspoken, but everyone knows that michael would’ve loved her too. i mean, she’s sydney fucking adamu, she conquered the bear. how could anyone not love her?)

[awkward-fallen-angel]

Helllooooo, Heather! Just wanted to come in and say thank you for being so wonderful. I will always appreciate how welcoming you were to me, and how you extended a hand when I was so incredibly unfamiliar to the fandom! I hope you're doing well, and I hope you had a great Valentine's Day ❤️

Oh.. wow! Thank you ♥️

I am speechless. Like actually thank you so much.

It means a lot to me that I can make people feel safe and welcome. That's always been my goal.

I know I've been busy (work is crazy and I'm trying to save up money to pay my cats vet bills)... So I try to come on when I can.

I'll be honest 😅 sometimes I don't feel like I have much to offer the fandom right now so these messages mean a lot to me.

I hope you had a wonderful Valentine's Day ♥️

[pourcap]

thoughts: pg chapter 21

i can't believe this is the last chapter of book 2 already i don't want it to be over just yet :(

(...) He had knocked Damen’s hand off his shoulder when Damen had tried to stop him. i hate this. they're supposed to work together

(...) Charcy was a death trap. great!

'So you told him.' just like jord told laurent about aimeric having gone missing :) i mean, he's right of course about laurent needing to know who damen really is, but still.

'Just a man?’ said Jord. ‘You think Aimeric thought that? That there were two of him? Because there weren’t. There was only ever one, and look what happened to him.' ugh i hate that he's right. i love jord and i absolutely do not want him to leave laurent's service, but he fucked up, too.

'He was my uncle’s whore,’ said Laurent. do you ever just wanna shake him?

'A brother?’ said Laurent. ‘But I do not have terribly good luck with those. I hope you are not here for a mawkish display of sentiment. I will throw you out.' i feel so sad for laurent :( (i do find it interesting how he uses his own pain to hurt others though)

'Then you’ll kill them like you killed Nicaise,’ said Damen. ‘By dragging them into this endless, childish bid of yours for your uncle’s attention that you call a fight.' oh my god???? damen????

oh wow

damen is... not wrong

but like... the balls on this guy

i can't believe he said that to laurent wtf

'In a fight, you try to beat your opponent. You don’t scurry to do what he wants. This is about more than Charcy. You’ve never made a single move of your own against your uncle. You let him set the field. You let him make the rules. You play his games like you want to show him you can. Like you’re trying to impress him. Is that it?' WHAT THF UCK

ok to be honest though i never thought about it this way. damen is so smart. literally the best person laurent could ever wish to have around. who else would talk to him this way? i mean, it helps that damen was born the crown prince but wow. i am speechless actually

'(...) Are you that desperate for his attention?’ He let his eyes rake up and down Laurent’s form. ‘Well, you have it. Congratulations. You must have loved it that he was obsessed enough with you that he killed his own boy to get at you. You win.' OH. MY. GOD.

damen can be just as brutal as laurent seriously

i can't wrap my head around what i'm reading

(...) ‘You don’t know anything about me. Or my uncle. You’re so blind. You can’t see what’s—right in front of you.' (...) is laurent talking about his abuse?

'You’re nothing,’ said Laurent, ‘but a crawling disappointment who let a King’s bastard throw him in chains because he couldn’t keep his mistress happy in bed.' WHAT IS GOING ONNNN

you guys were happy and in love literally HOURS ago !!

'You want to hear the truth about my uncle? I’ll tell you,’ said Laurent, a new light in his eyes. ‘I’ll tell you what you couldn’t stop. What you were too blind to see. You were in chains while Kastor was cutting down your royal family. Kastor and my uncle.' ??????

what

("a new light in his eyes" man... laurent. was there therapy back then? i feel like everyone in capri needs it.)

'Did you think Theomedes died from natural sickness? All those visits from physicians that only made him sicker?' so, while we're at it: fuck the regent.

i want to give damen the biggest hug

'You didn’t guess it was Kastor? You poor dumb brute. Kastor killed the King, then took the city with my uncle’s troops. And all my uncle had to do was to sit back and watch it happen.' can they stop being assholes to each other PLEASE this is not the kind of thing they should be talking about like that :/

'(...) I just wish I could have seen it happen. I wish I could have seen Damianos when Kastor’s hire-swords came for him. I would have laughed in his face. (...) maybe if Theomedes had kept his cock in his wife instead of sticking it in his mistress—' again: OH MY GOD.

i would like to say that i am genuinely terrified of laurent finding out who damen really is :))))

That was the last thing he said, because Damen hit him. (...) okay not to condone this but to be fair, laurent really had it coming

Laurent pushed himself up and gave Damen a look glittering with triumph, even as he dragged the back of his right hand across his mouth, where his lips were smeared with blood. triumph?? what exactly did he gain from this? i get that laurent likes to needle people into giving him a reaction but damen, the only person who truly understands and looks out for him?? but i do get where he's coming from, obviously

nicaise's earring????? :((((( i am crying lol

'No,’ said Laurent. And then, ‘It was provoked.' at least he gets it

(but why are they fighting over damen's arrest? i am confused)

'No,’ he said. ‘You can’t go to Charcy. I need to convince you of that.' i love him. so much.

Laurent’s laugh was a strange, breathless sound. ‘Didn’t you hear anything that I just said to you?' great. now i just feel sad for him again. why does laurent keep making me feel all those things???

'Yes,’ said Damen. ‘You tried to hurt me, and you have. I wish you would see that what you have just done to me is what your uncle is doing to you.’ He saw Laurent receive that like a man at the very ends of his endurance being given another hit. ‘Why,’ said Laurent, ‘do you—do you always—’ He stopped himself. The rise and fall of his chest was shallow. i can't handle this!!! damen is so perceptive -- i really don't get why i keep seeing people say he's oblivious. i mean, he is, to things he doesn't understand, like deception. but this??? he understands people. he knew aimeric was going to be a problem within what felt like 3 seconds, appreciated jord's loyalty to laurent even when jord found out who damen is, etc. (also: laurent kind of admitting he was just trying to rile damen up and consequently push him away as a sort of defense mechanism makes me want to cry)

'I can’t.’ It was a raw admission. ‘I can’t think.’ The words were torn out of him. Wide-eyed in the silence, Laurent said them again in a different voice, his blue eyes dark with the exposure of the truth. ‘I can’t think.' i don't know what to say so i'll just let you know that i'm crying

(fuck the regent)

'Don’t go,’ said Laurent, quietly.' laurent just keeps on breaking my heart :')

(quick side note: i get why you're all so in love with him lol)

'No. I don’t mean—forever—just—’ Laurent broke off. ‘Three days.’ (...) I can’t seem to . . . think, and I can’t . . . trust anyone else to stand up to me when I’m . . . like this. (...)' he !!! trusts !!! damen !!! :(((((((((((( <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 (i mean, we knew that before, but wow. the character development. the difference in their relationship. i am just so blown away)

'Don’t,’ said Laurent. ‘Don’t lie to me. Not you.' NOT YOU

'(...) I just . . . I just liked him.’ Underneath the cold, analytical words, there was also something bewildered. :(((( god im still so sad about nicaise.

'He spoke up for me because he didn’t think my uncle would hurt him. None of them do. They think he loves them. (...)' hmm. reminds me of when laurent admitted he was surprised the first time the regent tried to kill him, that he never thought he'd actually go this far :/

'Like Aimeric,’ said Damen. Into the long silence that stretched out between them, Laurent said: ‘Like Aimeric.' god. you just know what laurent is really saying here is: 'like me'

ohh laurent saw the cuff

their mood changes give me whiplash

'To keep. I wouldn’t wear it,’ said Laurent, ‘though I don’t believe your imagination is having any difficulty with the idea.' lol yes call him out <3

what i really love about those two is that they BOTH just kept throwing accusations at each other, argued, got really personal, etc, but they understand each other so well by now to know why they said/did what they said/did and not hold it against each other :')

'Did you mean what you said? That you were glad.’ ‘Yes,’ said Laurent. ‘They killed my family.' ok time to be sad again

Because throw Laurent together with Damianos, and either one would kill the other, or, if Damen kept his identity concealed and they somehow managed to form an alliance . . . (...) He thought about the Regent’s suggestions to him, sly, subtle. (...) And the constant, pervasive insinuation: Have you taken my nephew? i am going to throw up lol

fuck the regent

and kastor

so far, kastor is just as non-existent as auguste in the books and guess which big bro doesn't suck (ofc the shitty one has to be the one still alive)

'(...) It was you who never quite fit . . . You’ve always been outside of his schemes. For everything that my uncle and Kastor planned,’ said Laurent, as Damen felt himself grow cold, ‘they had no idea what they did when they gifted me with you.' oh my god i love this. can't wait for laurent to laugh in his uncle's face right before he kills him <3

damen is such a softie oh my god he's just fantasizing about everything being okay and him being able to court laurent i can't believe this (also it makes my heart ache)

If the Regent wanted Damianos of Akielos standing alongside his nephew, he would get him. (...) that's so hot. i love damen so muchhhhhhh

But what he said was, ‘Are you sure you want to leave your enemy in charge of your fort?’ ‘Yes,’ said Laurent. They gazed at one another. because they aren't enemies anymoreeeee!!! <3

ok laurent is saying things in a way that makes me think he's got something up his sleeve. then again, when does he not?

nikandros???

oh my god

is it happening?

are we going to get damianos in book 3?

He was looking at Laurent’s signet ring. wait. what?

laurent wanted nikandros to come?

am i reading this correctly?

He said it as it opened up inside him, ‘They are our reinforcements.' THAT WAS AN ENTIRE BOOK AGO

what the fuck

i know laurent plans ahead (and has planned ahead) but oh my god

what is laurent's brain???? what are his genes????

(...) Damen and Damianos. And Jord was right. There had only ever been one of him. He said, ‘Open the gates.' i am so excited for this

on the other hand: i am scared. bc now there is no way laurent won't know who damen is, right? unless nikandros doesn't recognize damen which i don't think is possible. so, like. what's going to happen?? (*chuckles: i am in danger* meme)

(...) Had they always been like this? So stripped of everything but the utilitarian? So hungry for war? i LOVE the reflection. so much has changed for damen and i am so so so happy he's seeing the world with new (less arrogant) eyes

Because an Akielon man was dismounting from his horse, beneath the main standard, and Damen’s heart was pounding. (...) i am confused. damen is so happy to see nikandros and i know they were friends so... why did we learn literally nothing beyond his military status over the course of two books?? did damen just not allow himself to think too much of his life back home in akielos bc he'd miss it too much or...?

'The last time we spoke, the apricots were in season,’ said Damen, in Akielon. ‘We walked in the night garden, and you took my arm and gave me counsel, and I did not listen.' so, nikandros warned damen about kastor. imagine telling your best friend his life is in danger and him being too arrogant to take any of it seriously. and then your friend actually dying... (as far as you know)

He said, ‘Damianos.’ Before Damen could tell him to rise, he heard it again, echoed in another voice, and then another. It was passing over the gathered men in the courtyard, his name in tones of shock and of awe. The steward beside Nikandros was kneeling. And then four of the men in the front ranks. And then more, dozens of men, rank after rank of soldiers. oh my god

'He lives. The King’s son lives. Damianos.' AAAAAHHHHHH

can't wait for the third book lol

(a few pages without laurent at the end and i have already begun to miss him)