#Wings over Houston

[gremlins-hotel]

[ladyaldhelm]

Some of my favorite photos take at the Houston Texas airshow in 2016.

[monkeyssalad-blog]

"Texas Raiders" B-17G by Kevin Trotman Via Flickr: TEXAS RAIDERS painted in the colors of the 381st Bombardment Group of the US 8th Air Force was built in 1945. It has appeared in the movies Ike, The War Years, Brady’s Escape and the PBS documentary, Honor Squadron . You can read more about the history of this particular aircraft here .

[sissylittlefeather]

Hey @mysteriouslymagicalwolf! I definitely got carried away with this one and wrote a whole ass fic. I hope you enjoy it!

Birthday Girl

Warnings: 18+ MINORS DNI, kissing, cussing, fingering, oral sex (f receiving), masturbation (m), ejaculation

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

You're late.

You hate being late, but since you've become a mom, it seems like it gets harder and harder to get anywhere on time. And now with the divorce, it's even worse than before. Not only do you have to get Jeffrey ready to go, you have to try to convince him to stay with his dad.

Tonight was particularly difficult for some reason and it couldn't have been a worse night for Jeffrey to have a complete meltdown. It's your birthday, your 30th birthday, and you saved up for months for these tickets to Elvis's show in Houston. You don't really have any friends left, since most of them were wives of your husband's army buddies, so you decided to go alone.

It would've been fine. But you're late. And it's dark and he's half way through Bridge Over Troubled Water already and you cannot find your seat. The ushers have disappeared, so it's on you to find it but you just can't. The reality of everything in your life comes crashing down on you all at once and you just fall to your knees in the aisle and cry. You cry because you're alone, your husband doesn't love you anymore, your kid is melting down at every little thing, you've been looking forward to this concert for months and now you've missed half of it, you can't find your seat, and it's your goddamn birthday.

You're sitting in the aisle sobbing when the house lights come up. You look up suddenly, eyes red with tears, and somehow he sees you from the stage. The last thing you needed was to be noticed, much less by him, so you bury your face in your hands in shame and your shoulders quake with sobs.

"Honey, c'mere." Surely he isn't talking to you. "In the aisle, come up here. Y'all go get her."

He gestures for the security guards to go get you and bring you to him. When you realize what's going on, you're paralyzed and they have to half-carry you up to the stage.

"Bring her up." The security guards lift you so that he can reach you to talk to you from the stage. When he realizes how upset you are, he puts the mic on the ground and kneels down to be as close to your level as he can be.

"Honey, what's goin' on? Are you alright?" He speaks to you as softly as possible with the crowd noise. His voice is gentle and smooth. Elvis is used to fans falling apart when they see him, but he senses that this is different. You look up at him in shock.

"I-I'm fine."

"You don't look fine, sweetheart. What's got you so upset?" You take a deep breath and try to decide how much you should tell him. But then it all comes pouring out of you.

"It's my birthday. And I was late because my kid had a meltdown because he didn't want to stay with my ex and now I can't find my seat and I'm sorry I was just so excited to finally see you and I spent so much money and now I missed half the concert and I'm alone and it's my birthday and I'm so sorry to bother you."

He listens attentively and then reaches out to put his hand on your cheek, wiping away some of the tears with his thumb.

"You're not botherin' me, honey. Don't you worry about that. Here." He grabs the mic and turns to the wings of the stage. "Joe, get this girl a chair and put it on the front row."

"You really don't have to-" He puts the mic down to talk to you again while Joe fetches a chair and adds it to the front row for you.

"Yes, I do. You can sit in that seat. And also..." He reaches into his boot and pulls out a key, pressing it into your palm. "This is my hotel room key. I'm at the Hilton, room 1614. You come to me tonight and we'll celebrate. You deserve a real birthday."

"I can't take up your time like that-"

"You're not taking anything, honey, I'm offering it." He pulls the scarf from his neck, throws it around you and uses it to pull you into a kiss, pressing his lips against yours gently. "I have to get back to the show. I'll see you later."

He nods to the security guards, who lower you back to the ground and guide you to the chair Joe added for you. Elvis picks up the mic and goes right back into his concert. He makes eye contact with you throughout the rest of the show, like he's doing this just for you, even winking a couple of times. You blush every time, but your resolve gets stronger to go to his hotel and see him after the show. If nothing else, you have to thank him for taking the time to be kind to you.

******

After the show, you sit in your car in the parking lot of the Hilton trying to decide if this is crazy or amazing. Eventually, you come to the conclusion that it's a little of both, but you'd be stupid not to at least see what happens. Besides, it's your birthday. What do you really have to lose?

When you find yourself at the door, you're not sure what to do. You have a key, but just walking in seems rude. You settle for knocking and wait to see if he's there. After a few seconds, he opens the door still in his jumpsuit, but without the belt.

"Oh! It's you!" He closes the door quickly, leaving you outside. You stand there shocked, not sure if you should leave or stay. When you're just about to turn around and leave, he opens the door again. In his hand, he's holding a small plate with a cupcake on it, a single candle burning on top. He ushers you into the room and begins to sing Happy Birthday. You absolutely melt at his excitement. He gets to the part where he's supposed to say your name and stops, looking at you expectantly.

"Oh! Y/n."

"Happy birthday dear y/n. Happy birthday to you!" He finishes the song with a flourish and then holds the cupcake up for you to make a wish. You close your eyes and smile and then blow the candle out. He cheers and laughs and then sets the cupcake on the table.

"Happy birthday, baby." He puts his arm around your waist and kisses your cheek.

"Thank you. That was great." You turn and look up into his face and there's some kind of electricity building between you. You look down at the cupcake to break the tension, picking it up and pulling the candle out. He watches you with an amused look on his face as you take a bite. The icing gets all over your lips, so you run your tongue over the top and giggle. Something inside him flip flops when you do. For some reason, he finds you unbearably endearing. You miss a spot of icing on the side of your mouth, though.

"Oh, honey, you got..." He uses his thumb to wipe the side of your mouth and then licks the icing off. "That's pretty good."

You dip your finger in the icing and put it in your mouth. The icing is sweet and decadent and it's your favorite part of a cupcake anyway.

"Lemme get some more of that." You dip your finger in the icing again and offer it to him. He holds your hand and puts your finger in his mouth, sucking gently and sending a shiver down your spine. You feel your center get a little wetter with the sensation of his mouth around your finger. He backs off of you, but keeps holding your hand, opening your palm and pressing his lips there. Turning you towards him, he slips a hand around your back and pulls you in close to him. He speaks softly.

"I'd like to give you something else for your birthday, if you want it." He leans forward and kisses you deeply, parting your lips with his and sliding his tongue into your mouth. You sink into the kiss, letting your arms find their way around his neck. He pulls back a little, hovering with his lips just above yours, and whispers.

"I will go as far as you want me to. You can tell me to stop at any time. Otherwise, I'll just keep on going."

"Elvis?"

"Hmm?"

"Don't stop." You don't have to tell him twice. He dives back into kissing you passionately, his tongue dancing against yours. His hands roam over your body, touching your hips and your sides and your ass and your breasts. He reaches back behind your thighs and lifts you so that your legs are around his waist, carrying you over to the bed. He crawls onto the bed and lays you down, kissing your neck down to your cleavage. Moving down your body, he slides his hands up your thighs under your mini dress.

"Can I take this off?" You nod fervently.

"Yes, please." He slides his hands up your body and pulls your dress off, dropping it on the floor next to the bed. He kisses back down to the place where your bra meets the skin of your breast. Pulling it down a little, he exposes your nipple, dragging his tongue around it. His hand goes around behind your back to undo your bra and he removes that quickly too. He continues to explore and worship your body with his mouth and hands.

"You're so beautiful, honey." He kisses down your stomach to the top of your panties and whispers into your skin. "I wanna taste you."

You whimper and lift your hips as he hooks his fingers under the sides of your panties and drags them down your legs and off. Then, he unzips his jumpsuit all the way down, pulling out his rock hard cock. He lays with his head on the pillows and grabs your hips.

"C'mere, honey." You scoot over to him and he situates your hips over his face so that he has easy access to you. He uses one hand to guide your pussy down to his mouth and the other to stroke himself. Then, he pushes his tongue into you a few times before licking up to your clit and settling there. He drags his tongue over and around you eagerly, like your pussy is his last meal. He lets his tongue flick your clit softly for a bit before you groan and grind into his face. Then, he puts his whole tongue on you again, licking you hard. You feel the rush of your orgasm gathering in your hips as he stops stroking himself and uses two fingers to slide inside you and pump in and out quickly. He tickles your g-spot and continues to move his mouth on you.

"Oh, fuck, Elvis!" You moan loudly and slam your hand on the hotel room wall as you cum hard in his mouth. The vibrating ecstasy reverberates through you like bolts of electricity. But he doesn't stop. No, he just keeps on licking you and finger fucking you until you cum again a second time. When you try to pull off of him, he holds your thighs.

"No, honey, you got one more in ya. I'm gonna get you there." You whimper, sweat running down your chest. His hair is wet with sweat too, since he's still in his jumpsuit. You look down at him with his face buried in your pussy and he's beautiful with his eyes closed. He moves his hand back to his cock, where he pumps himself as he licks you. Your third orgasm slams into you, exploding in your veins like firecrackers and making your legs shake, knocking out the hearing in your left ear. You feel him shudder underneath you and realize that he's cumming too, shooting his release out onto his hand. Finally, his body relaxes with yours.

He can tell you're exhausted, so he releases your thighs, letting you fall sideways off of him to lay on the bed.

"Happy birthday, honey." His words slur a little from the use of his tongue. You look down at him where he's made a mess on his hand and the crotch of his jumpsuit.

"You didn't have to do that. I could've-"

"No, honey, tonight was about you. I didn't want you worryin' about me." You turn to look at him and he kisses your forehead. "Was that a good birthday?"

"I think that was the best birthday I've ever had."

"You wanna stay? I can give you more in the morning." You smile and nod.

"Under one condition, though."

"What is that?"

"Let me take care of you tomorrow." He smiles.

"I think I can make that happen."

"Good." You roll out of bed and get him a towel from the bathroom to clean himself up. He stands up to strip off the suit and you hear him groan.

"What?"

"I was supposed to wear this tomorrow night. And I made a mess of it." You laugh and lay down on the bed. He finishes taking the suit off and climbs into bed with you, pulling you in close to him and pressing his naked body against yours. "Worth it for my birthday girl."

He kisses your cheek and holds you as you both drift off to sleep.

Looks like wishes made on birthday candles do come true.

******

The End

[writingquestionsanswered]

I'm realizing the amount of research I have to do for this year's NaNoWriMo novel (which is a lot), so do you have any tips on doing efficient research for stories?

NaNoWriMo: Efficient Story Research

1 - Go General First

Let's say you're writing a story about a fictional astronaut in the 1960s. It can be tempting to just research everything about being an astronaut, being an astronaut in the 1960s, the 1960s in general, life in Houston, the history of Johnson Space Center, what Kennedy Space Center was like in the 60s, and so on... But there's going to be a lot of data there that never actually makes it into your story. So, a good place to start would be to read a short general overview of those things just so they're in your head. Then...

2 - Get Specific for the Needs of Your Story

Next, look at your plot outline or scene list and make notes about specific details you'll need to know about. For example, if you have a scene that takes place in Johnson Space Center, you may need to research the specific building where that scene takes place and get an idea of what it might have been like in the 1960s. Or, let's say you have a scene where your character is doing some sort of simulation to train ahead of the mission... you would need to research astronaut training in the 1960s to find out what kind of simulation they might be doing for training, or if you already know, you can research that specific simulation. But, you don't need to learn everything there is to know about astronaut training in the 1960s unless all of those things make an appearance in your story somehow.

3 - Placeholders Are Your Friends

Most important of all, just remember your first draft isn't your final draft... you don't need to have every single fact fleshed out before you start writing. If you're writing and you get to something that needs to be researched, put in a placeholder so you can research it later. You can literally type [placeholder] or you can just wing it, and correct whatever you come up with later on with something more factual. Either way, placeholders help ensure you don't spend a lot of time researching things you don't actually need to know about.

4 - Watch Out for Rabbit Holes

You're writing this story because the subject matter interests you, but interesting subject matter can lead us to fall down rabbit holes when we're researching. When that happens, it can be easy to justify it as research, but if you find yourself falling down one while researching, ask yourself, "Will any of this make an appearance in my story? Does it help me understand the subject matter more as a writer?" If not, back out of the rabbit hole immediately.

5 - Break It Up/Get Organized

It can really help to break your research down according to your story. Like, all the things you need to research for Act I, Act II, Act III... or maybe by character or setting. By breaking the research up into like parts in this way, it forces you to sift through it all more thoughtfully and makes you really think about what you actually need to know and spend time researching.

I hope that helps!

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

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[usafphantom2]

The Collings Foundation F-100F at the 2024 Wings Over Houston Airshow, worked on and flow by the Vietnam War Flight Museum. Definitely a highlight of the show. 56-3844 N26AZ

@pressxtolive via X

[nocternalrandomness]

Photo pass by a CJ610 powered replica Me 262B at the 2015 Wings Over Houston Airshow

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

A Sweet Mishap - Chapter 18

Pairing - Jensen Ackles x Reader 

A/N: I just want to start by thanking everyone for all the love on this story so far. Let me know if you want to be added to the tag list. This chapter is a little heavier (as is the story going forward, but I'll include potential triggers for each chapter as relevant), so please read the TW below and only read on if you feel comfortable doing so.

Potential Trigger Warnings: none

A Sweet Mishap Masterlist | Main Masterlist

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Despite only getting a few hours sleep, I feel energised throughout my shift. The memories of last night filter through my mind whenever I get a brief chance to slow down as I’m making coffees, heating pastries and cleaning tables. The night may not have gone exactly the way I’d hoped, and there are parts I wish happened differently, but the way he made me feel overpowers all of it. I try to keep myself from getting carried away, but for the first time in years I feel butterflies and like I have hope. 

I’m full of nervous energy as I practically skip back to my apartment and clean every inch. Despite him already seeing it in its normal chaotic state, I want to make a better impression tonight. While I’m still terrified to take any serious steps and make any promises, the light, weightless feeling of premature infaturation is intoxicating. Once I’m satisfied with the state of the apartment, I shower, change into a comfy but nice sweater and jeggings. I let my hair fall naturally over my shoulders and put on a light layer of lip gloss. I light the fireplace before leaning anxiously against the bench as I finally text Jensen.

HeyThis is me texting you when I finish work

You need a chance to rest or rehearse or anything?

Wasn’t the plan for us to do that together?

Just making sure You can change your mind, you know? If you’re too tired or too busy I understand

It’s just one more night, right?

If you’re sure I really want to see you, but I don’t want to overwhelm you

I’m ok, JensenI’d like to see you too

Alright, See you in 30? Any preferences for dinner? Or things I should avoid?

You’re not gonna get a Texan brisket in NYCSo, surprise me

Good thing I’ve had time to research

Almost an hour passes before I finally hear a knock. I stop pacing and rush across the well worn track to the door. I glance through the peephole before opening the door. 

“I am so sorry! I ran into some fans at the restaurant and I couldn’t get away. I should’ve send Clif in. I just-”

I pull him in for a hug. “I thought…” He wraps his arms around me. 

“You thought I was standing you up…I’m sorry. I should’ve texted you from the car.”

I pull back and pace back to the kitchen and lean against the counter. “No, that’s just me overreacting again. Things happen, you’re famous, I should just expect it.”

He places the take away bag on the counter and puts one of his hands over mine. “And why would you expect it? Life happens to everyone, but I don’t make a habit of being late. And it’s my fault for not texting.”

“You don’t owe me that. By my own fault, you’re not…we’re not…”

“With or without a label, we had plans. Plans that are now going cold. Let me make it up to you with…” he pulls out the cardboard take away containers out of the bag and opens them one at a time. 

I read the label on the lids. “Dallas Barbecue! You went all the way to Times Square? No wonder you got mobbed by fans!”

“You were missing home, and I know Dallas isn’t Houston, but we do Barbecue too. Now, whether the people here can do it well, the jury’s still out on that, but we’re gonna find out. We got a good selection to try. We’ve got baby back ribs, sirloin steak, roast chicken, crispy wings, a barbecue brisket burger, and because I’m a bit of a stickler for health food, salad and roast veggies.”

“This is way too much food, Jensen…”

“We get through what we can and you get the rest for tomorrow night. Budding actresses can’t be against leftovers.”

“I just can’t believe you got all this just because I was missing home.”

“It’s not just that. Texan food is the best. Let’s just hope they do it justice.” He picks up a wing. “Now help me eat this before it goes cold and we don’t get a good test.”

I sit beside him at the island bench and we both just eat straight from the containers. As we test each dish we critique it, but my opinions are likely skewed as it’s been so long since I’ve been home. Eventually he gets up to grab a knife from the knifeblock and cuts the burger in half. 

“Alright, it’s brisket time!” He says as he rubs his hands together. He hands me half before picking the other half up himself. “So far it’s been an alright substitute but this here is the real test.”

After packing the outstanding amount of leftovers away in airtight containers in the fridge we collapse on the couch feeling entirely full, bloated and satisfied. He stretches his arms out along the back of the couch as he spreads out. I can feel his fingers lightly tickling my shoulder and neck. I stretch my head to the opposite side to give him more access. 

“I’m glad you didn’t hold back tonight. You were matching bite for bite with me. That’s sexy. I don’t know many girls who can do that. Especially when it comes to a big Texan dinner like that.”

“There’s so much left…I feel so bloated.”

“It’s just been too long since you’ve been to Texas, but I’d say you did amazing. You can take the girl out of Texas…”

“I wanna go back, I do…But…”

“But you also wanna make it on Broadway? I was the same, with acting I mean. I loved Texas, I didn’t really want to leave, but I knew if I wanted to give acting a shot I had to go to LA. My dad gave me one year, otherwise I’d have to come home and go to college.”

“College boy, huh? What would you’ve studied?”

“Sports medicine. You ever consider studying?”

“I guess you could say I considered it…” I turn on the couch so I’m leaning against the armrest so I can look at him while we talk. I go to cross my legs but he pulls them over his thighs and runs his hands over my covered calves. I try to focus on what I was saying instead of the reawakened butterflies. “I’ve been taking acting classes, but I was also thinking about taking some psych and sociology classes this year. ”

“You been analysing me?”

I shake my head. “I mean part of the human condition is to form opinions and make judgements. But no, I haven’t decided or started yet.”

“I guess it will depend on the audition, right?”

“Yeah…”

Noticing me relaxing a little more, he slowly slips his fingers under the fabric of my socks to massage my skin. He watches me to gauge my reaction before continuing. While I’m distracted he asks, “What was the monolgue again?”

I almost recite it, but stop myself at the last second. “Nice try, Ackles.”

“You said you needed to practice. I might not have any official training, but I can give you notes as a friend and fellow actor.”

As he softly drags his thumb down over my instep I let out an involuntary sigh and bite my lip as the relaxation and tingling feeling runs up my legs to my core. The feeling instantly brings me to my senses and I try to pull my foot out out grip but he holds on. He hushes me as he continues to gently massage them. “It’s alright. Stay here with me. No walls. I won’t go any higher, it’s okay.”

“I’m sorry. I’m just not-”

“Hey, it’s alright. It’s a foot rub, nothing more. I’m not…” He shakes his head as his hands still. “I said I’d wait for you and I meant it. It’s just…You were relaxing and opening up to me. It’s like you’ve got these automatic doors and they open up so briefly and then they slam shut on me. And I understand you need time. It’s just hard to resist when you give me the green light, no matter how brief, but I have no intention of taking advantage of you or making you feel uncomfortable.” He lifts his hands to let me make the next move.

I nod and make the conscious decision to try and relax and let him in. I don’t move my legs. I reach for the remote but don’t turn the TV on yet. “You don’t make me feel uncomfortable. The opposite actually. I just overthink. I get in my head and…”

“We all do sometimes. I think we need a embarrassment-free, stress-free safe word. Whenever you’re starting to get overwhelmed you say the word and I’ll stop, we take a breath. And I don’t just mean with physical stuff like now, on the phone, via text, anytime. If the conversation is too much, we change the subject or we discuss what’s going on in your head.”

I nod as I consider his suggestion. After a few moments of silence I say, “Brisket.”

“That’s my girl, how Texan of you. I love it. So, whenever you start to feel anything’s too much you just say brisket.”

“Thank you.”

“So, honestly…If I do this?” He rubs his hand over my calves down to my feet and rubs his fingers gently over the top of my feet and around over the instep. I let the feeling wash over me and relax. He smiles and continues when I don’t use the word. 

It’s almost midnight when the credits roll on the random movie we picked. Jensen turns off the TV and then, despite feeling guilty, crouches down beside me, and brushes my hair away from my face. He quietly says, “The movie’s finished, Darlin’”. I grumble out something unintelligible and scoot down the couch. “You should go to bed.” When I don’t move he gets up and looks around for a blanket. He finds one folded up in the corner, and he spreads it over my body. “Sleep well, Darlin’. I’ll try to come back and visit you soon.” He softly kisses the top of my head. “I’ll text you in the morning.” It takes all of his willpower to pull away and walk out the door not knowing when he’ll see me again.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Taglist: @stoneyggirl2 @hobby27, @n-o-p-e-never, @deansimpalababy,

@winchesterwild78, @kr804573, @chriszgirl92, @smoothdogsgirl

@speakinvain

[captain-price-unofficially]

F-35A during Wings over Houston 2024

[germhammy]

“Girls Night 3- The challenge pt 5Final”

Kent: -wheeling out the prep cart, he revealed the sauce they had just tasted- That last one was called Surrender. And now for the final three!! Two will be familiar to you, Harley

Harley: oh my god. Must be A King’s Ransom Insanity and Houston We Have a problem. What’s the third?

Wednesday: X Factor. The current last dab is even hotter than Houston We Have a Problem!

Harley: oh god. Houston was delicious but definitely intense

Pippa: Harl, you put a big dab on your wing didn’t flinch when others gagged and cried? Intense? Then Jean challenged you to a staring contest? You put more on your wing and took another bite?

Harley: hey. My eyes were watering!

Kent put on a new pair of gloves. He places 5 nuggets in to a clean bowl and opened the A King’s Ransom Insanity sauce. They heard the crack of the seal. He poured a generous amount over the nuggets and mixed it up before them

Mr Johnson: it already smells hot

Enid held out a single serving bowl for each of the nuggets and placed them before the challengers

Harley and Wednesday ate their nuggets.

Wednesday: oh my. This is truly hot. But not really all that in terms of flavor. Or even peppers?

Harley: right? I didn’t want to say that on the show. I think its pepper is merely habenero? And capsaicin

Mr Johnson and Xavier were gagging and choking at the heat. Xavier was gulping down orange juice and Mr Johnson eating the cottage cheese

Wednesday: I do taste chipotle pepper I think. But the added capsaian and pepper extract just takes away from the taste

Kent was already preparing the next nugget with a new set of gloves and a new bowl. The cracked the seal on the next sauce. Mr Johnson and Xavier were still trying to cool down the heat. Kent placed the next bowls down.

Mr Johnson: I can’t believe the two of you are casually discussing the hot sauce like a pair of judges in a cooking show -straining to sound normal still feeling the burn of the King’s Ransom sauce-

Harley picked up the bottle and put a bit more sauce on her nugget and Wednesday’s as well

Harley: ready?

Wednesday: yes

They ate their nuggets as Xavier and Mr Johnson stared.

Wednesday: wow

Harley: delicious right? I mean it’s all Apollo peppers but the different ways of preparing them really makes a difference

Wednesday: yes. So spicy. My eyes are watering now

Not to be out done Mr Johnson and Xavier both ate the nuggets. Xavier put more on just like Harley and Wednesday and instantly regretted it. His eyes started tearing up and he started choking

Xavier: water!! WATER!!

Mr Johnson was trying to look cool but he was suffering

Kent: Enid, bring out more cottage cheese and orange juice

Xavier: -struggling to talk- how are you girls not struggling? That was hot!

Harley: well, I knew what to expect with those last two. I tried them when I took the challenge. There’s tomato juice you can drink

Xavier: tomato juice? Hell no!! Just get me water!!

Enid brought out the items Kent asked for. She pour orange juice for both Mr Johnson and Xavier as well as giving them each a bowl of cottage cheese. Kent prepared the final nuggets

Harley: you say this is hotter than the Last Dab I had?

Wednesday: yes. Pepper X

Harley: oh dear.

Mr Johnson ate his nugget. He immediately regretted it.

Mr Johnson: ugh. That’s terrible. My mouth and lips are on fire! - he started choking and started eating the last of the bread. It wasn’t helping. He grabbed a bottle of water. It did not help either

Xavier: -downing his nugget. Coughing then vomiting- ugh. Wednesday help me!!

Harley and Wednesday are their nuggets

Harley: ack! So hot!!

Wednesday: ugh. I regret nothing

Harley: same.

Enid: orange juice?

Mr Johnson grabbed the bottle and downed it. Kent brought out two plastic champagne glasses filled with orange juice for Harley and Wednesday and a bottle of water for Xavier

Kent: here is your water, Xavier. It won’t help. Water just spreads the capsaicin around. You’re better off with the tomato juice And for the hellions? A final toast with a glass of orange juice?

Chuckling Harley and Wednesday took the orange juice and drank

Wednesday: that was good

Harley: indeed! I did like the X Factor sauce. Perhaps if we had not had so much other hot sauce before?

Wednesday: and on something more hearty than a mere chicken nugget

Harley: Agreed. Thank you. This was fun. A very nice selection of sauces!

Kent had brought out more nuggets for everyone and more conventional dipping sauces like ketchup and ranch. Also more chips and guacamole

Everyone, accept for Mr Johnson and Xavier who remained at the tasting table feeling sick, ate and talked

[sicknessbysalem]

Day Twelve: "You're Not Fine, you're Throwing Up" | Sicktember 2024

because i actually really like this character, have a self indulgent sickfic that nobody asked for.

if you have any requests, comments, questions, etc., send them my way

tw emeto, scat, fever, pushing through illness

Houston’s day hadn’t started the way he’d expected. In fact, the second his eyes had cracked open, he barely had time to register the dull light filtering through his window before his stomach twisted sharply, leaving him no choice but to bolt for the bathroom. 

He’d barely made it to the sink before his body decided it was time to throw up—no warning, no chance to brace himself. It was sudden, violent, and left him trembling against the cool porcelain, gasping for breath.

He clung to the sink, sweat beading on his forehead as he tried to make sense of the chaos inside his stomach. He hadn’t felt sick when he’d gone to bed, just a little off. Maybe it had been the takeout from last night—the greasy pizza and wings didn’t seem like such a good idea in hindsight. 

Houston wiped the back of his hand across his mouth and stared at his reflection in the mirror. His skin looked a little paler than usual, his dark hair a mess, and his eyes had the faintest shadows under them. He grunted, splashing water on his face, hoping it would wake him up and settle his stomach.

But the morning didn’t get any easier. 

He made it back to his bed, flopping down and hoping to sleep off whatever was going on with his stomach. But it wasn’t long before he was up again, rushing back to the bathroom, his body betraying him with wave after wave of nausea. 

Each bout left him feeling more drained, his stomach clenching painfully with each retch, until finally, hours later, it seemed to stop.

By mid-morning, Houston had managed to make it back to bed, his body limp and exhausted from the morning’s ordeal. He lay there, staring up at the ceiling, his hand resting on his aching stomach as he tried to make sense of it. He wasn’t one to get sick easily—he was tough, used to working long hours at the parlor and the tavern without much downtime. He figured it had to be food poisoning or something. 

Whatever it was, it had knocked him on his ass. But now that the vomiting seemed to have stopped, Houston was determined to shake it off. He still had work later, and there was no way he was going to let April and Meadow down by calling out last minute.

His stomach seemed to be settling—finally—so he took it as a good sign. He got up, moving cautiously, half-expecting another wave of nausea to hit him. But nothing came. Houston groaned softly, rubbing his hand over his face, and dragged himself to the kitchen for some water. The cold drink soothed his dry throat, though it sat a little uneasily in his stomach, but he figured it would pass.

He checked his phone, his shift at the tavern starting in a couple of hours. No way he was bailing on April and Meadow—not when they relied on him, especially during the weekend rush. Houston told himself he was fine now. Whatever had been in his stomach earlier was out of his system. He just needed to take it easy until his shift, and he’d be good to go.

By the time he had to leave for the tavern, Houston had convinced himself that the worst was over. He splashed more water on his face, brushed his teeth for the third time that morning, and threw on his usual work clothes: a faded black t-shirt that clung to his lean frame, dark jeans, and his well-worn boots. He gave himself a quick glance in the mirror before heading out. 

The walk to the tavern was usually a breeze for Houston—he liked the fresh air and the way the neighborhood hummed to life in the evenings—but today, each step felt heavier than usual. His stomach was still tender, but he ignored it, chalking it up to residual discomfort from earlier. By the time he reached the familiar brick building of the tavern, he was feeling slightly more confident. The nausea had stayed at bay, and that was all that mattered.

Inside, the tavern was already starting to buzz with activity. The familiar warmth of the place washed over him, the low hum of chatter and the clinking of glasses a welcome distraction from how he’d been feeling. He made his way to the back, where Meadow was already setting up for the night, her usual bright energy filling the room.

“Hey, Meadow,” Houston greeted, giving her a small smile as he shrugged off his jacket.

“Houston! You’re just in time,” Meadow replied with her usual warmth, giving him a quick once-over. “You good? You look a little tired.”

Houston tensed slightly but waved her off with a casual shrug. “Nah, just a long morning. I’m good now.” He wasn’t about to let on that he’d spent most of the day hunched over his toilet.

Meadow didn’t press further, though he could tell by the slight tilt of her head that she wasn’t entirely convinced. She knew him well enough to pick up when something was off, but for now, she let it slide.

“Alright, if you say so. Just let me know if you need anything,” she said, her tone light but caring as always. “I’ve got the usual setup in the back, so we should be good to go.”

Houston nodded, relieved that Meadow wasn’t pushing. He wasn’t in the mood to explain himself—not when he still felt like he was walking on shaky legs. He made his way behind the bar, slipping into his usual routine, his hands moving with practiced ease as he prepared for the night ahead.

But as the minutes ticked by, Houston could feel the familiar churn of nausea creeping back into his stomach. It started as a dull ache, something he could ignore at first, but as the evening went on, it became harder to push aside. The sounds and smells of the tavern—the clinking of glasses, the scent of food and alcohol—only seemed to make it worse. He clenched his jaw, trying to steady himself, but each time he moved, his stomach twisted uncomfortably.

He wasn’t going to make it through the night like this. He knew it, but he couldn’t bring himself to admit it. Not to Meadow, not to April. They were counting on him, and he wasn’t about to bail after what he’d already been through.

But as another wave of nausea hit him, stronger this time, Houston felt the sweat start to bead on his forehead. His vision blurred for a moment, the room tilting slightly as he gripped the edge of the bar for support. He swallowed hard, trying to fight back the rising bile in his throat.

No way. He wasn’t going to let it happen. Not here. Not now.

-

Houston’s resolve to push through the night grew more strained as the hours dragged on. Every time he bent to grab a glass or mixed a drink, his stomach clenched, reminding him that this wasn’t over. It was getting harder to ignore the nausea twisting and turning inside him, but he kept his expression neutral, not wanting to add more stress to Meadow and April. They didn’t need to worry about him on top of everything else. They trusted him to handle his shift, and he wasn’t about to let them down.

But as the minutes ticked by, his stomach felt more like a ticking time bomb, and every shift of his weight or sudden movement sent a wave of queasiness through him. His hands trembled slightly as he set down a drink in front of a customer, and he had to swallow hard to keep the rising nausea at bay.

“You okay, man?” Meadow’s voice cut through the fog in his head, her eyes flicking over him with concern.

Houston flashed her a tight smile, hoping it would be enough to convince her. “Yeah, I’m good. Just need to take my break soon.”

She didn’t press further, though her eyebrows knitted with worry. “Alright. Take it when you need to. I’ve got this covered.”

Houston nodded and moved on, trying to ignore how every step felt heavier than the last. By the time his break finally came, he felt like his stomach was barely holding itself together. He made his way to the back, his pace a little quicker than usual, hoping to get a moment to collect himself before things got worse. 

As soon as he entered the bathroom and closed the door, though, his body had other plans. The moment he locked the door behind him, the nausea surged forward, and for a moment, he thought he was going to throw up again. He hovered over the sink, his breath coming in short, shallow gasps, waiting for the inevitable heave that would send him back into that miserable cycle of retching.

But it never came.

Instead, his stomach clenched painfully, and the nausea that had been gnawing at him all night shifted lower, a cold sweat breaking out across his forehead as he realized what was happening. Food poisoning, or worse, a stomach bug. He could feel it now—the relentless ache deep in his gut, the urgent pressure that left him no choice but to sit down on the toilet, his hands gripping his knees as his body finally gave in.

The next fifteen minutes were hell.

Houston sat there, his head leaning back against the cool wall as his stomach twisted and churned, sending waves of cramps through his body. The worst part was that while the nausea had temporarily subsided, his body had traded one misery for another. He was too weak to fight it, his skin clammy and damp with sweat as he tried to brace himself through each painful spasm. His breath came in shaky, uneven bursts, and by the time it finally let up, he was left feeling even more drained than before.

When he finally stood up, his legs wobbled beneath him. His stomach hadn’t settled—it was just lying in wait, like a predator ready to pounce again. He washed his hands and splashed water on his face, but the coolness of the water did little to alleviate the heat radiating from his skin. As he stared at his reflection, he could see how pale and exhausted he looked—his cheeks flushed unnaturally, and there was a sheen of sweat glistening along his forehead.

“I’m fine,” he whispered to himself, gripping the edge of the sink as if to convince himself. “Just get through the shift.”

With a deep breath, he headed back out to the bar. Meadow was busy with a line of customers, and April was in the back handling inventory. Houston took his place behind the bar, doing his best to keep moving despite the tremors in his hands and the growing tightness in his stomach. He mixed drinks, smiled when necessary, and kept up with the orders, though it felt like he was running on fumes.

As the night wore on, it became harder to ignore the warning signs. His stomach was starting to twist again, a deep, unsettling nausea building with every passing moment. His muscles ached, and he could feel his temperature rising, the heat making his head swim. He knew he was close to his breaking point, but he wasn’t ready to admit defeat yet. 

Eventually, he couldn’t hide it any longer. The nausea hit him like a freight train, sudden and intense, and he knew there was no way he could stay behind the bar. He glanced at April, who was just finishing up a conversation with a supplier, and made his way over to her.

“April,” he muttered, trying to keep his voice steady, “can you cover for me for a few minutes? I just… I need to step away for a second.”

April glanced at him, her eyes narrowing in concern. “You okay? You look a little—”

“I’m fine,” Houston cut in, forcing a smile. “Just need to take a quick breather. Won’t be long, I promise.”

April hesitated, her eyes scanning his face for any sign of what was really going on, but after a moment, she nodded. “Go ahead. I’ve got it.”

Houston offered a grateful nod and made his way back to the bathroom as quickly as he could without drawing too much attention to himself. The moment he was inside, he locked the door and barely had time to make it to the toilet before his body gave in.

The retching was violent this time, each heave ripping through him with a force that left him gasping for air. He clung to the sides of the toilet, his knuckles white, as his stomach purged itself of what little was left. It was relentless, his body wracked with tremors as the nausea hit him over and over again, each wave leaving him weaker than the last. His breath came in ragged gasps, the sound of his quiet but strained retching filling the small bathroom.

By the time it finally subsided, Houston was left shaking, his forehead pressed against the cool porcelain as he tried to catch his breath. His muscles ached, his skin flushed and damp with sweat, and his stomach still twisted painfully beneath his ribs.

He was so caught up in his misery that he didn’t hear the soft knock on the door, nor the quiet creak as it opened. It wasn’t until he felt a gentle hand on his back that he realized he wasn’t alone.

“Houston…” Meadow’s voice was soft, filled with worry as she knelt beside him. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

Houston flinched at the sound of her voice, his body tensing as he lifted his head slightly, his eyes bleary and unfocused. “I didn’t want… didn’t want to cause trouble,” he rasped, his voice barely above a whisper.

Meadow frowned, her hand moving in gentle circles on his back. “You’re not causing trouble. Look at you—you’re burning up.”

Houston’s brow furrowed in confusion, his mind too foggy to fully comprehend her words. “I’m fine,” he muttered, though his voice was weak and shaky.

Meadow wasn’t convinced. She pressed her hand gently to his forehead, feeling the heat radiating from his skin. “You’ve got a fever,” she said softly, her worry deepening. “You shouldn’t be working like this.”

Houston shook his head, though the movement made the room spin dangerously. “I didn’t want… didn’t want to leave you and April short.”

Meadow sighed, her heart aching for him. “Houston, you’re more important than any shift. You should’ve told us.”

He didn’t respond, too exhausted to argue. His body was still trembling, his stomach churning painfully, but Meadow’s presence was a small comfort, her touch grounding him as she continued to rub his back.

“You need to go home and rest,” she said gently, her voice filled with quiet determination. “I’ll drive you if I have to.”

Houston leaned back against the wall, his eyes closed as he tried to steady his breathing. “I’ll be fine,” he murmured, though the weakness in his voice betrayed him.

Meadow shook her head. “You’re not fine, Houston. You’re burning up, and clearly you’ve been throwing up all night. You need to rest.”

He didn’t have the strength to argue anymore. His body felt heavy, drained from the relentless nausea and fever that had been plaguing him all day. He nodded weakly, the fight leaving him as he leaned into Meadow’s steady presence, grateful that she was there, even though he hadn’t wanted to worry her.

Meadow helped him up slowly, her arm around his waist as she guided him toward the back, determined to get him the care he needed.

-

Houston’s guilt weighed on him as Meadow helped him through the back of the tavern. Every step felt like a reminder that he was leaving April and Meadow in the lurch, and the thought twisted his already unsettled stomach into tighter knots. He’d never been one to bail on a shift, and now he was not only leaving early, but Meadow—who already had enough on her plate—was coming with him.

“I’m sorry,” he muttered as they stepped outside, his voice raspy from the earlier vomiting. “I didn’t mean to... I didn’t want to leave you two short.”

Meadow shook her head, glancing at him with a mix of concern and warmth as she unlocked her car. “Don’t even start with that,” she said softly, helping him into the passenger seat. “You’re sick, Houston. No one’s blaming you for taking care of yourself.”

“But April…” He leaned back, his head hitting the headrest, his face flushed from fever and guilt. “She’s gonna have to cover, and it’s a busy night—”

“I called in a couple of the others,” Meadow interrupted, getting into the driver’s seat and starting the car. “They’ll be here in no time. And if April asks, I’ll tell her I wasn’t feeling great and that you just left with me to help out. She won’t worry about it, trust me.”

Houston frowned, looking over at her through bleary eyes. “You shouldn’t have to cover for me like that.”

Meadow glanced at him as she backed out of the parking lot, her tone firm but kind. “I’m not covering for you. I’m helping you. There’s a difference.” She smiled softly, reaching over to give his knee a gentle squeeze. “Besides, you know April would worry too much if she knew how bad you were. This way, everyone’s covered, and we’ll get you home and feeling better.”

Houston let out a shaky breath, his stomach still churning, though not as violently as earlier. He didn’t have the energy to argue, and deep down, he knew Meadow was right. Still, the guilt gnawed at him. “Thanks,” he murmured, his voice weak.

Meadow gave him a soft smile, her focus returning to the road as they drove in silence. Houston stared out the window, watching the familiar streets pass by, though his vision blurred from the fever. Every so often, his stomach would twist painfully, reminding him just how close he was to losing the fragile control he’d been hanging onto all night.

By the time they pulled into his driveway, Houston’s body was trembling with the effort it had taken to keep it together. His hands were shaking, his breaths shallow, and the nausea that had been lurking in the background surged forward with a vengeance. The moment the car stopped, he knew he wasn’t going to make it inside.

“Meadow, wait—” Houston barely managed to unbuckle his seatbelt before he fumbled with the door, throwing it open just in time to stagger out. He didn’t make it far. As soon as his boots hit the grass, his body lurched violently, and he doubled over, emptying his stomach into the lawn. 

Meadow was out of the car in a heartbeat, rushing to his side. She crouched beside him, one hand on his back, rubbing gentle circles as he continued to retch. “It’s okay,” she murmured softly, her voice soothing. “You’re okay, Houston. Just let it out.”

Houston heaved again, his body trembling as his stomach clenched painfully. The contents of his stomach hit the grass with a sickening splatter, but there was little left in him after the ordeal at the tavern. It was mostly dry heaves now, his body still trying to expel what wasn’t there. His hands gripped his knees tightly, and his breaths came in ragged gasps as he tried to pull himself together.

Meadow stayed close, her presence grounding him as she continued to rub his back, her voice a quiet comfort in the haze of nausea and fever. “You’re doing great, Hous. Just breathe.”

He groaned softly between heaves, his voice hoarse. “I’m so...sorry…”

“You don’t have to be sorry,” she said gently, crouching beside him and keeping her hand steady on his back. “Just focus on getting through this. I’m right here.”

After what felt like an eternity, the heaving finally slowed, leaving Houston weak and shaking in the aftermath. He leaned forward, resting his hands on his knees as he tried to catch his breath, his body trembling from the exertion. His skin was clammy, and he felt like he’d been wrung out, every muscle in his body aching from the violent retching.

Meadow stayed by his side, her hand still on his back as she spoke softly. “Let’s get you inside, okay?”

Houston nodded weakly, too worn out to respond with anything more. With Meadow’s help, he managed to stand, though his legs wobbled beneath him. They made their way slowly toward the house, Meadow keeping a firm grip on his arm to steady him as they reached the front door.

Inside, the familiar warmth of his home greeted them, but Houston barely had the energy to appreciate it. His entire focus was on staying upright as Meadow guided him to the couch, where he collapsed with a groan, his body sinking into the cushions.

As soon as he was settled, there was a soft rustling sound from the corner of the room. A moment later, Houston’s black-and-white cat, Jack Daniel, padded into the room, his tail flicking curiously as he approached. Meadow smiled softly as she watched the cat hop up onto the couch, immediately curling up beside Houston, his purring loud and insistent.

“Looks like someone missed you,” Meadow said with a small smile, watching as Jack Daniel nuzzled against Houston’s arm.

Houston managed a weak chuckle, lifting a shaky hand to pet the cat. “He always knows when I’m not feeling great,” he muttered, his voice still rough from earlier.

Meadow watched them for a moment, her smile softening. “Smart cat,” she murmured, moving to grab a blanket from the chair and draping it over Houston. “You need to rest, okay? I’ll get you some water, and then you’re not moving from this couch.”

Houston nodded, too tired to argue. His body still ached, and the nausea hadn’t fully left, but the worst seemed to be over for now. He closed his eyes, his hand still resting on Jack Daniel’s soft fur as the cat purred quietly beside him. 

Meadow disappeared into the kitchen for a moment, returning with a glass of water and setting it down on the coffee table. She sat beside Houston, her hand resting gently on his arm. “You’re going to be alright,” she said softly, her voice full of quiet reassurance. “Just take it easy.”

Houston nodded, letting out a slow breath as he leaned back against the cushions. The fever still burned under his skin, making him feel heavy and weak, but with Meadow beside him and Jack Daniel curled up at his side, the worst of the panic and discomfort began to ease.

As the evening stretched on, Houston felt himself drifting in and out of a light, feverish sleep, but every time he stirred, Meadow was there—her presence steady, her hand occasionally resting on his arm to check on him, her voice always soft and comforting.

[ladyelissarose]

‘My Desert Flower’

Jake Seresin x girlfriend reader - nickname, ‘Poppy’

 Warnings? FLUFFFFFFF

Summary: After coming home early from deployment overseas, Jake is happy to come home to Texas to surprise his favorite girl as they celebrate his mommas birthday 

  Jake Seresin had just gone back from overseas after a successful mission, but, the thing was that he had arrived on land much earlier than scheduled. They were planning to be home until two weeks later.  

 So with that said, he figured that he’d give his family and girlfriend, Poppy, a good surprise. All his wing buddies agreed  to drive him to the airport, and the whole way there they teased him about being a softie when it came to talking about his girlfriend, the green in his eyes shone so brightly and his cheeks gave off a light pink shade of color, he looked and acted like a crushing high school boy. From seeing this look on Jake, Bradley and Natasha concluded that he was head over heels for his girl. Javy and Reuben tried to mimic Poppy’s voice to tease Jake and call him pet names. Bob and Mickey just laughed and went along, they were too shy to emerge, but had fun either way. But Jake laughed the most and was all happy smiles, because it was true, Jake was deeply in love with his sweet girl Poppy. He met her while she was taking a trip in San Diego, and she had stopped by to say ‘Hi’ to Penny who was a best friend but also her babysitter from when she was a little girl. But what was supposed to be a short ‘Hi and Bye’ soon led to her staying the whole afternoon till evening as she chatted happily while catching up, but that’s when her eyes landed on the tall blond man who had walked in with a fitted black t-shirt and some aviators hanging low on his nose, then her ears fell for his sweet and flirtatious words as he kindly and respectfully greeted everyone around him, including her. Poppy had tried to play off her interest in him for most of the night, but the minute Jake asked for her number, she didn’t even hesitate to say yes. But she was quick to explain that she was only in San Diego for short time, but that’s when Jake asked where she came from, and in that moment he knew that he’d have for for a long time. Poppy explained to him that she came from Houston, Texas to be exact. Jake immediately told her that he was born and raised there too, and that maybe there they could get to know each other more, and see where they went with that. Which soon turned out to be 3 years in a wonderful relationship, Jake loved his girl, she was loyal and caring, always waited for Jake to come back, sent gifts and necessities overseas to him and his fellow sailors, even spent lots of time with his family to stay close and get to know them more too. Poppy had a masters in child development, and worked as a teacher for adorable preschoolers. All this he shared about her to his friends, and was grateful to see how happy they were for him. But Jake was more excited to know that soon he’d be able to see her again, as he said his goodbyes to his fellow aviators, and received loud smooches on his cheeks by Natasha and Javy who couldn’t stop the teasing. Jake promised them that soon they could all meet up and he’d introduce Poppy to them, and that only made his wing buddies all more mushy and playful with Jake, but deep down they actually were more than anything happy for him. When they first got to know him, Jake was the kind of guy that only did one-night-stands and didn’t know how to commit to relationships. But they also witnessed the day that changed, which was the night he laid eyes on Poppy at Hard Deck, while she twirled and danced to Bradley playing the piano with happy tunes and helped serve everyone to ease some work off of Penny’s shoulders that very night. 

Taking the plane was the fastest way to get home, but Jake still felt like it took forever to get there, what in reality was like maybe 2 and a half hours, Jake felt like he had been in the damn plane allllll day. But finally once he arrived at the airport in Houston, he changed his uniform khakis into his favorite button down orange shirt and Levi jeans along with his cowboy boots. As much as Jake loved to be seen in his Naval apparel, he loved his cowboy apparel more, it made him feel at ease and at home, knowing that not anytime soon he’d be called back, for now he could forget it. Jake had left his favorite cowboy hat home with his girl, so she could take care of it while he was gone he had told her, and knowing how careful and protective Poppy was with all his stuff, he was sure she did. Once he was changed and refreshed, Jake took a cab to go to his girls house, his initial plan was to surprise her there first before going to his family’s house. So in between telling his driver the ‘Can you go a little faster?’ - ‘the light was yellow you could’ve gone’ and trying to be nice at the same time was kind of a hard deal for Jake when he desperately wanted to get home. Much to his surprise though when he finally got home, was that his old red Chevy truck sat in the drive way just fine, but Poppy’s black ‘67 Mustang wasn’t there. He got off the cab after paying the driver well, and went straight to the door and found the key under the mat where his girl had left there for him, which in that mere moment it sent him warm butterflies in his chest, to know that she had kept that there for him, letting him know that he was always welcome, whenever. When he walked in her house, an aroma waving a scent of fresh flowers and its sweet nectar hit his nose, along with her natural body’s scent, which was so addictive to Jake. But he also caught a whiff of what smelled like carrot cake? He knew his girl loved to bake, but was disappointed when he didn’t find the source of the smell. Though He straightaway went to the fridge where he knew she’d have her to-do list hanging on it, which would tell him what her plans were for today. And he was right when he read on the paper in her lovely handwriting,

  ‘To-do list for today:

 By Momma Seresin some flowers.

By her birthday present.

 Bake the cake. 

Leave at 5:00 to help decorate at the Seresin Ranch at 5:30’

  Jake checked the large white clock that hung on the wall near by and it read, ‘5:10’

 He smacked his forehead slightly as he thought,

  ‘Damn it I just missed her!! It’s my moms birthday! Shoot I didn’t forget... but I did.. ok ok, let’s just go and surprise them there! Now where are my keyssss... oh there they are!!’

  On the key rack Jake found his truck keys, with a new, small charm on it, the Texas Longhorn symbol dangled from the chain, he realized that his girl must of gotten it for him while he was gone, knowing that he was a HUGE fan and had wanted one sense he saw it at the local gas station. It made his heart swell for the sweet things she did for him, it showed him that she really cared and remembered the little things about him. 

After hopping into his truck and relishing in its familiarity it for a few minutes, he turned it on and grew a huge smile when the motor roared to life, showing him that though it was old, it still worked like magic. While driving down the familiar streets of Houston, he drummed his steering wheel to his favorite tunes that played on repeat, which was unknown to everyone except his girl, was actually Taylor Swift’s album ‘Red’. He was currently jamming to ‘I Knew You Were Trouble’ as he finally found the dirt road that led him to the Seresin Ranch. He as always liked to roll down his windows so he could coo and call out to every cow and goat he passed, it was a habit no one could pull him out of, but he enjoyed it greatly when they replied back to him in their animalistic language. He could feel the breeze that grazed and brushed against his skin as he continued down the road, he let his hand hang out the window as his fingers drummed against the door. The sun let out its golden shade, and painted the sky beautifully above him, which the clouds danced in every color as they began turning into different ones as the seconds passed. Soon the Ranches Red Barn came into view, and he found several familiar cars parked in the grassy driveway, one which was his girls Black Mustang. He parked his truck in front of the open barn yard, which showed the lights and tables that were set up, he liked how it looked so homey and beautiful. Turning off his truck he looked around and saw a ladder that stood in the middle of the open place, right under what looked like a large lamp filled with dangling lights in mason jars. He thought that maybe it was his pops that was doing the job, but he was so wrong when he saw the woman of his dreams skipping into sight with a box of lightbulbs in her hands. She wore a gorgeous, white sun dress with her tall brown cowgirl boots that Jake had bought her for her birthday. Her hair was curled and bounced loosely, and set on top of her head, was Jake’s favorite cowboy hat. Taking in such a sight for his sore eyes, just about made Jake drool onto the steering wheel he leaned on while watching. He smiled to himself when he heard her singing with a sweet melody, he couldn’t quite catch the words, but it sounded like ‘Shake It Off’, another Taylor Swift hit that Jake had fallen for because of his girl. She twirled and danced, moving her hips softly, like if she was imagining that she was dancing with her loved one. 

As much as Jake could stay there for hours watching her be herself, in the freedom and fresh air of the Seresin Ranch, his anxious heart couldn’t wait to be in her arms any second longer. Opening his door and closing it softly so he wouldn’t be heard just yet, Jake then fixed his shirt and his hair, making sure he looked fixed and smelled good, then checked his pants and boots, once satisfied he finally agreed to himself that he was ready to be seen by his girl. Though he knew that she didn’t care how he looked or smelled, it could be him wearing his flight suit while smelling like sweat and jet fuel, or like the cows when they spent the summer with his family at the Ranch, she always hugged him tightly and kissed his chest over his heart then his lips. While walking closer he realized she was singing a different song, as she still danced slowly, he caught her words as she went on sweetly,

  “Say you remember me.. standing in a nice dress staring at the sunset babe... red lips and rosy cheeks.. say you’ll see me a-gain even if it’s in your-“

  “wiiiiildest dreams..-“ 

  “OH MY GOD!!”

 Jakes intentions were to collaborate with Poppy and go on singing, but he actually startled her which made her gasp and drop the whole box of lightbulbs as she held her chest to hold her heart from jumping out from fear. Her and Jake quickly reacted to pick up the bulbs and kinda forgot about the realization of seeing each other again as they chucked and apologized,

  “I’m sorry I scared you-“

 “No no it’s ok, I didn’t realize you had arrived- woah wait-“

  She then stopped mid sentence as she took in Jakes presence, then squealed when she fully realized that he was actually there,

 “JAKE!!”

 Poppy unexpectedly threw herself in Jakes arms to which he let out an ‘omff!’ while almost hitting the ground. But quickly he composed himself and held onto her tightly as he stood up and held her feet above ground. She squeezed her arms around his neck as she pressed a ton of kisses on his head, Jake kissed her head too as he smelled her citrus scented hair, and relished in it, happy to know that she was actually and finally in his arms. He then heard her voice say with a sniff,

  “Welcome home honey.. I really missed you.. and didn’t think you’d be here today.”

 Jake squeezed her hips as he cooed,

  “Awe sweetheart.. I’m right here.. don’t cry ok? I’m not going anywhere for a long time.”

 “Please don’t... I miss you all the time.”

  “So do I baby girl.”

He then gently put her down and detached his hands from her hips so he could delicately hold her face, he kissed her nose before saying,

 “You look so pretty in my hat.. let’s all the guys know that I’m yours.”

  Shyly giggling Poppy touched the charm on the hat that had Jakes first and last name imprinted. Jake then grabbed her hand and kissed her fingers as she asked him,

  “You came home early?”

 Nodding proudly he replied,

  “I did.. our mission was a complete success and done ahead of schedule.. so that earned us plenty of time off.”

 Her eyes glistened with excitement as she asked,

  “How long?”

With a million dollar smile Jake cheered,

  “4 whole months!”

 Gasping with glee she jumped in Jake’s arms again, to which he began to twirl her around as they laughed happily. 

  Later that evening, once everyone knew that Jake was home and welcomed him back gratefully, his momma then let the party begin. Roars of cheers and laughter could be hear everywhere, along with the younger nieces and nephews running around chasing after the lose chickens and baby goats that were desperate for them to go home and leave them be, (except when they were fed off the table by the little kids of course.) After eating a hearty steak that Jake’s pops and older brother grilled, the tasty macaroni and fruit salads his aunt put together, and lastly his girls special carrot cake with homemade vanilla ice cream, everyone was called to the dance floor after letting the food settle down. Country music began to fill in the atmosphere, as a couple of talented uncles and cousins played their favorite instruments. It was traditional that they danced all together for every celebration or party, so it wasn’t awkward when they all began to move in sync with the same dancing choreography as they took in the music like air to the lungs. Jake was quick to take his girls hand as they danced in their boots hand in hand, he lived off the smile she gave every second, and she lived off his laughter that was more than music to her ears. The jolly and upbeat music had everyone sweating and gasping for air once it came to an end, as they had been jumping, twirling, and moving the entire time. As the evening passed, it was time to settle down, so softer music began to play, a few went back to sit down, others chatted by the fruit and drink bars, while very few still swayed on the dance floor. Jake still wanted to dance in his girls arms, but he noticed how she kept moving her feet uncomfortably, so he asked her what was wrong in her ear wondering,

 “What’s the matter baby girl?”

 She looked up to him from under the hat as she said shyly,

  “My boots are beginning to hurt my feet.. but I really want to dance to this last song with you.”

Jake understandingly took her hand and led her away, but before she could protest, he sat on a chair and sat her on his knee as he began to take off her boots. Poppy was afraid that she’d be judged for having Jake take off her boots like that in the open, but felt a rush of relief as she watched him rubbed her feet lovingly, then placed her boots under his chair so no one would step on them.  

  Poppy continued to worry about his caring choice of actions, but soon forgot about those thoughts when he stood her up and walked her back to the dance floor as he said instructively,

  “Stand on my boots, baby.”

 Looking for reassurance in his green eyes once again while trying to tilt her head back so she could see him properly from under the hat she asked,

  “what?-“

  “Stand on my boots honey. Come on.”

 Sense his boots were kinda soft on the top, it wasn’t uncomfortable when she stood on them, her small feet actually fit quite perfectly on them. He then held her waist tightly as he said sweetly,

  “Hold onto my neck so you don’t fall ok? I’m going to move slowly. I got you.”

  When she did as he said, she immediately felt safe and sound in his arms, as they began to sway in complete sync. Laying her head on Jakes chest after placing her kiss on his heart, she felt him take a deep breath before saying,

  “I’m so grateful for you... you’re always so faithful and sweet, and always helping my family when I’m not here. That means a lot to me you know that?”

 Lifting her head up to him, caused him to chuckle when his hat fell on her eyes again, so he quickly said,

  “Put the hat on my head baby, I’ll hold it for you.”

 Taking the hat off she brushed his hair back before settling it on his head as she replied to him,

  “Your family is my family Jake, no matter what. I’ll always be here, wait for you, support you, and love you. Ok?”

  Jake tried to hold it in, but couldn’t help the fact that his eyes either way teared up. Her words meant more to him than anything else, as he remember where they started. Jake had met his girl in the worst time of her life, she had decided to leave her family after being treated and used so poorly, which was a hard decision for her to make, because she didn’t have anyone to fall back on. She had gone to Penny hoping she’d help. (which she did of course, Penny wasn’t one to leave anyone behind.) Poppy was like a desert flower that had been left alone, waiting to be given water, given love so she could flourish, and Jake was the one to do just that. He never plucked her out of her place, but instead made her surroundings more durable and safe, and planted himself next to her, so they could grow together. Penny was the only one at the time that gave her a safe place, but when they began their relationship, Jake was happy and quick to want to take Poppy under his wing, but he gave her the time to know him first and see that she could trust him. Which soon she did when they bought a little house in Fighter Town. But when Jake and her made the choice to make their relationship more serious, he knew she was afraid to meet his family, he had heard all her sad stories of how she was poorly treated by family, but he was confident to know that his family would never hurt or reject her, which was something she had to see to believe. So as time had passed and she got to know them more, Poppy began to always make plans to go be with them, and that’s when Jake saw that she finally trusted them and him fully, and he couldn’t be happier. Pressing a tender kiss to his lips she then wiped his eyes carefully as she confessed,

  “I love you so so much.”

Lifting her up slightly off his boots so she could be at his eye level, Jake replied,

  “I’m very proud of you.. and I love you so so much too.”

  They pulled each other into a hug, and felt complete with one another, knowing that no matter how alone or dry the desert might be around them, as long as they had each other and loved, they’d be more than just fine, they’d be one another’s desert flowers. 

 Later that night, the warm summer breeze still filled the atmosphere, and by then everyone had retreated to their homes and comfy destinations, all except for Jake and his girl, who rested in the bed of his truck laying on thick white comforters while watching the stars above, which painted the sky beautifully. Poppy’s leg was thrown over Jake’s waist as she hugged him and laid her head on his chest, as Jake had his arm wrapped around her too, and he used the other hand to hold onto her thigh that was on his waist. He felt so much happier as he began to hear the soft snores coming from her pretty lips, it confirmed that no matter where they were, she trusted him to keep her safe in his arms, even in the put and opened, right beneath the stars that gave off a low light, that illuminated her skin. Jake then carefully moved his arm away from her thigh to pull the extra blanket on top of them, to keep them covered and comfortable, but Poppy either way woke up and lifted her head off his chest due to his shifting, but sent him a warm smile when she realized that he had covered them both. Tilting her head down to meet his lips with hers, they brushed together as she sighed happily,

  “I’m so happy you’re my family Jake, you love and take care of me, and make me feel super safe.”

 Lifting his head up slightly to press a firm kiss to Poppy’s lips, Jake replied,

  “And I’m happy you trust me. And believe me Poppy, I’ll protect your life with mine at all costs, I’ll keep the birds and bugs away from my desert flower, and I’ll make sure she blooms and flourishes like no other. You stand out in a desert, you follow the sun no matter the season, you give life in a place others only thought could give nothing.”

  Poppy’s tears landed on Jakes cheek then rolled down slowly as she took in his sweet words, it was rare when he said something so deep and meaningful, because he didn’t always know how to word out his passionate love for her. But she wiped his cheek gently with her fingers as she asked shyly,

 “I’m your desert flower baby?”

 Nodding while kissing her one last time before holding the back of her head to lay her down on his chest, Jake confidently said and promised,

  “You’ll always be my desert flower, strong and beautiful, the only one. And I’ll forever make sure you stay planted on good land and grow. I’ll always keep you flourishing and safe.”

  Squeezing his waist tightly Poppy awed,

 “You’re so amazing... thank you.”

 Keeping his hand on her head while the other held her tight Jake cooed,

  “And you’re my wonderful baby... I love you.”

“I love you too, honey.”

 Silence soon fell upon the two, as nature continued to treat them with its nice, warm breeze, settling in for them to have a nice, and peaceful night. Both in the comfort and safety of one another’s arms, they were lulled to sleep by the sound of one another’s heartbeats and soft sounds of nature that surrounded and embraced them lovingly.

[who-knew-a-sheep-can-write]

Voyeuristic Intentions: Blackwatch!Genji Shimada x Reader x Blackwatch!Cole Cassidy (NSFW)

Contains: Poly sex, oral sex, anal sex, slight masturbation, hair pulling, semi-public sex, spanking (done once), dirty talk, slight-voyeurism with a little surprise at the end ;)

Reyes’ office was dark, tall curtains drawn shut from the bright white snow outside glittering in the moonlight. Winds howled, pushing against the reinforced glass and metal windows that protected you from the harsh Swiss weather. It was dark overall, to be honest. Instead of the normal gray and white paint coating the walls of the rest of the Overwatch base, Reyes made it a fact to paint the walls black in his office despite the small Blackwatch wing matching the rest of the base.

Your feet squeaked against the polished marble tiles. They were a light gray to match the ceiling, contrasting the black, it made everything feel sterile strangely.

Normally it would feel like you were suffocating when you sat across from him in this office, the void black walls would feel like they were closing in on you as you would get a lecture. Now, it felt as though it was pushing them both closer to you.

Both the jingling sound of spurs and the clicking of cybernetics made your head swim. You felt hot under the collar of your Blackwatch uniform, you felt it clinging to you in ways that made you wish they would both pull it off of you faster.

You felt Cole’s hands run up your sides, fingertips digging into your ribs so tightly that you swore he could feel your heart beating through the bone cage. He hooked his fingers into the fabric, wanting to so desperately yank it off of you without fear of the consequences of a ruined uniform. That would certainly land you right back here in Reyes’ office for a stern lecture. He was behind you, his broad and brawny chest was pressed up against your back. He had his face buried in the side of your neck, his beard scratching at your skin as he pressed hot kisses to your throat and biting the columns of your neck. He was so warm, his heat made you want to cry and rip your uniform right off your body.

Genji was in front of you. Unlike Cole who was pressed up against your back, Genji gave you just a bit of room before you so you wouldn’t feel crushed. His hands were cold, you welcomed them as they traveled along your front side. From your face to your throat where he could feel your pulse racing under his thumb down to your chest and shoulders where he grabbed at to guide you forward into the empty office. His eyes were open, trained on yours, looking for even the slightest hesitation to let him know to stop.

Reyes’ office wasn’t all that furnished. A large metal desk towards the back of the room, his large and overstuffed desk chair sat tall facing three smaller chairs. They were metal with only a little bit of a padding for the cushion, it helped drill in the feeling that you were in trouble. You would rather be handcuffed in the holding cells on the concrete and metal jut out that made up the “bed” than those chairs. There were barely any hangings on the walls, just a few plaques bestowed upon him by Overwatch as well as a group photo of Blackwatch hung behind him.

All that was missing was the mug Cole comically had gotten him a while ago when you five had a mission in Houston; A big white coffee mug with the words ‘World’s Best Dad’ written on it seemingly with black crayon.

“You sure we won’t get in trouble,” you glanced over your shoulder to the tall cowboy behind you.

Cole only tutted you, knocking back the tip of his stetson, feigning being wounded.

“Darlin’, ya hurtin’ me,” he nuzzled into your hair, “ya know we’ll take mighty good care of ya.”

Cole nipped at your earlobe as he tugged on your uniform. Genji moved his cybernetic hand to your face, his cold fingers cradled your chin and lifted your head to look him in the eyes. The cyborg had removed his faceplate, revealing his full scarred face.

“And besides, the Commander is not here.”

“Yeah, probably fuckin’ Morrison in some broom closet,” Cole ground himself against your behind. “Just like how we’re gonna fuck you.”

You shivered at those words as the two gripped onto you just a bit tighter. Cole and Genji lead you deeper into the office towards the desk, Genji leaving your front for just a moment as he rounded the desk and pushed Reyes’ towering chair out of the way. Cole pushed you forward until you were pressed up against the ridge of the cold desk.

You were pushed down onto the desk only to catch yourself on your elbows. Cole wasted no time fumbling with the pants to your uniform, his large hands grabbing the belt and wrestling it off of you from behind until he was finally able to pull it off and lower your waistband and underwear to just below the curve of your ass. Cole, not being able to help himself, smacked your bare ass, a short cry managing to leave your lips before the cowboy clamped a hand over your mouth.

“Maybe we’ll save that for next time,” he smirked at Genji wolfishly.

The cyborg stayed silent as Cole fumbled with his belt, you felt Genji shift before you. The cyborg before you had removed the plate from his lower torso, revealing his erect cock now in your face. It wasn’t scarred like the rest of his body, and a bead of precum rested right at the tip slowly beading down his thick shaft.

You had leaned forward and wrapped your lips around Genji’s cock. The cyborg hissed as you swirled your tongue around his head, licking up the beads of precum that had leaked out. You had started to slowly bob your head along his length until he hit the back of your throat when you pulled back gently only to do it again. Genji placed his human hand on top of your head, fingers curling into your hair, nails biting into your scalp just enough to lightly pinch. He would sink his nails into your scalp every time you bobbed your head down on his cock, taking in his thick length more and more until you had swallowed him to the root. As you looked up, you noticed he wasn’t looking at you, instead, he had his eyes closed and his head was tilted up just a bit. His mouth was opened slightly, eyebrows twitching, and his breathing was shaky.

You heard Cole’s fly finally rip down, the cowboy’s cock hitting your bare asscheeks. You shivered when you heard him spit into his hands and stroke himself. Cole’s deep groans made you whimper against Genji’s cock.

You pulled away when you felt Cole spread your asscheeks. You whimpered at the tap at your hole and cried when you felt his lubricated head slowly penetrate through the tight hole. Genji gave you no time to catch your breath when he hoisted your jaw open and jerked his cock back into your mouth.

You could barely breathe between Genji’s cock basically choking you from the front and Cole’s cock stretching your ass from the back. Cole gave you only a moment to adjust to his girth before he started to move. It started with slow strokes, the cowboy hissing behind you as he tried to get used to how tight you were, he grabbed at your waist and dug his fingertips into your flesh.

Cole eventually got faster with his thrusts, he got more sloppy and rough with each buck of his hips. With every thrust, he would push you closer and closer to Genji, push your front into the desk even more, and jerk your legs up just a bit with each thrust to the point where you would be standing on your toes.

With every thrust from behind, you would jerk further forward, forcing you to take Genji up to the root every time.

You moaned, feeling your legs wanting to go numb. You felt static forming in your knees. Your back ached from the curve but you loved it. You don’t know how much time had passed. Minutes melted together to what felt like hours of bliss.

“Fuck, darlin’,” Cole groaned as he continued pounding away, “yer so fuckin’ tight. I can only imagine how that pretty mouth of yours feels right now.”

“Don’t stop,” the cyborg warned.

You weren’t sure who it was he warned, but you knew Cole wouldn’t let up anytime soon.

Genji’s fingers tugged at your hair again, making your back arch in a way that had Cole groaning and quicken his thrusts. You felt the coils in your core tighten up fast, you felt tight and stiff, about to tip over the edge into ecstasy.

You came with a short moan muffled by Genji’s cock. By that point, your pants had fallen to your shaking knees.

You felt Genji’s cock start to twitch in your mouth, he was groaning more, and his breathing was starting to labor until he finally came apart in your mouth.

You swallowed Genji’s salty cum, the cyborg forcing you to look him in the eyes as you did so with his fingers pinching at your jaw. You rocked in his touch as Cole still thrust from behind, you couldn’t help but screw your eyes shut when he bucked his hips and plunged himself deeper and deeper inside before you felt him twitch inside of you. You both let out moans at the warm stretch only for Cole to groan loudly, the cowboy planting a hand at the back of your head and forcing you cheek-down onto the Reyes’ cold desk.

Genji let go of your jaw to wipe away a drop of his cum that had dripped out from the corner of your mouth as Cole rode out his climax still in your ass, warmth seeping deep inside of you slowly before he pulled himself out, releasing his grip on your head in the process.

You shivered as you felt Cole’s hot and sticky cum roll down your inner thighs. The sudden opening of the door had your eyes fly open out of a mixture of shock and fear. You felt both Cole and Genji lock up, you and Cole having to whip your heads around to see the figure standing in the doorway.

Commander Reyes stood there, having now just looked up from the folder in his hands, eyes landing on the three of you at his desk and the creamy white mess. The Commander simply rolled his shoulders and lowered his brow, his lips were pressed into a tight line.

He dropped the folder to the floor by the door and kicked it closed with the heel of his combat boot, marching towards the three of you.

“Looks like you forgot to invite me to the party.”

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

If you are a poet, you will see clearly that there is a cloud floating in this sheet of paper. —Thich Nhat Hanh Before you became a cloud, you were an ocean, roiled and murmuring like a mouth. You were the shadow of a cloud crossing over a field of tulips. You were the tears of a man who cried into a plaid handkerchief. You were a sky without a hat. Your heart puffed and flowered like sheets drying on a line. And when you were a tree, you listened to trees and the tree things trees told you. You were the wind in the wheels of a red bicycle. You were the spidery María tattooed on the hairless arm of a boy in downtown Houston. You were the rain rolling off the waxy leaves of a magnolia tree. A lock of straw-colored hair wedged between the mottled pages of a Victor Hugo novel. A crescent of soap. A spider the color of a fingernail. The black nets beneath the sea of olive trees. A skein of blue wool. A tea saucer wrapped in newspaper. An empty cracker tin. A bowl of blueberries in heavy cream. White wine in a green-stemmed glass. And when you opened your wings to wind, across the punched-tin sky above a prison courtyard, those condemned to death and those condemned to life watched how smooth and sweet a white cloud glides. 

Sandra Cisneros, “Cloud”

[thisisyourdriverspeaking]

Lightening the mood after Miami with another edition of my US number ones posts - the drivers from all series version. Please enjoy 😊😊

Sebastien Loeb (26th February 1974) - Barbara Streisand - The Way We Were

Tony Kanaan (31st December 1974) - Helen Reddy - Angie Baby

Juan Pablo Montoya (20th September 1975) - David Bowie - Fame

Mark Webber (27th August 1976) - Elton John & Kiki Dee - Don't Go Breaking My Heart

Kimi Raikkonen (17th October 1979) - Michael Jackson - Don't Stop Til You Get Enough

Jenson Button (19th January 1980) - Michael Jackson - Rock With You

Felipe Massa (25th April 1981) - Daryl Hall & John Oates - Kiss On My List

Heikki Kovalainen (19th October 1981) - Christopher Cross - Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)

Andre Lotterer (19th November 1981) - Daryl Hall & John Oates - Private Eyes

Pippa Mann (11th August 1983) - The Police - Every Breath You Take

Simon Pagenaud (18th May 1984) - Lionel Richie - Hello

Robert Kubica (7th December 1984) - Wham! - Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

Nico Rosberg (27th June 1985) - Bryan Adams - Heaven

Jerome D'Ambrosio (27th December 1985) - Lionel Richie - Say You, Say Me

Rahel Frey (23rd February 1986) - Whitney Houston - How Will I Know

Kamui Kobayashi (13th September 1986) - Berlin - Take My Breath Away

Rene Rast (26th October 1986) - Cyndi Lauper - True Colors

James Hinchcliffe (5th December 1986) - Bon Jovi - You Give Love A Bad Name

Oliver Turvey (1st April 1987) - Club Nouveau - Let It Be

Sebastian Vettel (3rd July 1987) - Whitney Houston - I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)

Alexander Sims (15th March 1988) - Rick Astley - Never Gonna Give You Up

Molly Taylor (6th May 1988) - Whitney Houston - Where Do Broken Hearts Go

Simona De Silvestro (1st September 1988) - George Michael - Monkey

Sarah Bovy (15th May 1989) - Bon Jovi - I'll Be There For You

James Calado (13th June 1989) - Bette Midler - Wind Beneath My Wings

Brendon Hartley (10th November 1989) - Roxette - Listen To Your Heart

Earl Bamber (9th July 1990) - New Kids On The Block - Step By Step

Cristina Gutierrez (24th July 1991) - EMF - Unbelievable

Abbie Eaton (2nd January 1992) - Michael Jackson - Black Or White

Timmy Hansen (21st May 1992) - Kris Kross - Jump

Daniel Abt (3rd December 1992) & Alice Powell (26th January 1993) - Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You

Tatiana Calderon (10th March 1993) - Peabo Bryson & Regina Belle - A Whole New World

Christine GZ (22nd July 1993) - SWV - Weak

Alex Lynn (17th September 1993) & Bubba Wallace (8th October 1993) - Mariah Carey - Dreamlover

Michelle Gatting (31st December 1993) - Mariah Carey - Hero

Naomi Schiff (18th May 1994) - Ace Of Base - The Sign

Jessica Hawkins (16th February 1995) & Luca Ghiotto (24th February 1995) - TLC - Creep

Beitske Visser (10th March 1995) - Madonna - Take A Bow

Nicholas Latifi (29th June 1995) - Bryan Adams - Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman?

Jack Aitken (23rd September 1995) - Coolio ft L.V - Gangsta's Paradise

Oliver Askew (12th December 1996) - Toni Braxton - Un-Break My Heart

Louis Deletraz (22nd April 1997) - Puff Daddy ft Mase - Can't Nobody Hold Me Down

Catie Munnings (15th November 1997) - Elton John - Candle In The Wind

Cem Bolukbasi (9th February 1998) - Janet Jackson - Together Again

Jamie Chadwick (20th May 1998) - Next - Too Close

Kevin Hansen (28th May 1998) - Mariah Carey - My All

Mick Schumacher (22nd March 1999) - Cher - Believe

Toni Breidinger (14th July 1999) - Jennifer Lopez - If You Had My Love

Max Fewtrell (29th July 1999) - Will Smith ft Dru Hill & Kool Moe Dee - Wild Wild West

Robert Shwartzman (16th September 1999) - Enrique Iglesias - Bailamos

Bent Viscaal (18th September 1999) - TLC - Unpretty

Felipe Drugovich (23rd May 2000) - Santana ft The Product G&B - Maria Maria

Marta Garcia (9th August 2000) - N'Sync - It's Gonna Be Me

Arthur Leclerc (14th October 2000) - Christina Aguilera - Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)

Sophia Florsch (1st December 2000) & Clement Novalak (23rd December 2000) - Destiny's Child - Independent Women Pt 1

Frederik Vesti (13th January 2002) - Nickelback - How You Remind Me

Luke Browning (31st January 2002) & Liam Lawson (11th February 2002) - Usher - U Got It Bad

Olli Caldwell (11th June 2002) - Ashanti - Foolish

Jack Doohan (20th January 2003) - Eminem - Lose Yourself

All added to this playlist

[lonestarflight]

"The second free-flight test of an evolving series of X-38 prototypes took place July 10, 2001 when the X-38 was released from NASA's B-52 mothership over the Edwards Air Force Base range in California's Mojave Desert. Shortly after the photo was taken, a sequenced deployment of a drogue parachute followed by a large parafoil fabric wing slowed the X-38 to enable it to land safely on Rogers Dry Lake at Edwards. NASA engineers from the Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards, and the Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, are developing a 'lifeboat' for the International Space Station based on X-38 research."

Date: July 10, 2001

NASA ID: EC01-0204-2