#all the cast members are amazing
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(@oqmemphis thank you for this spectacular new meme template)
#seriously#I was genuinely surprised and dissapinted#and donāt even get my started on the crew#the editing team#art department#the creative minds behind this show are so bright#game changer will always be 1 in my heart#game changer#dropout#dropout.tv#sam reich#college humor#brennan lee mulligan#ally beardsley#zac oyama#grant o'brien#lily du#mike trapp#rekha shankar#katie marovitch#jess ross#vic michaelis#jacob wysocki#lou wilson#raphael chestang#iffy nwadiwe#man I could list off cast members forever#theyāre all amazing#the emmies#academy awards
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This is my favorite image ever I think
#burger#guys oh my GOD I had a burger the other day after not having one for like ? almost a year I think? nearly fainted#it was so glorious and amazing#bacon cheeseburger save meā¦save me bacon cheeseburgerā¦bacon cheeseburgerā¦.#I love burgers but only like once a year#like if I eat them on a regular basis I find them disgusting#I have to limit myself#okay I really donāt know why Iām talking about my burger eating habits rn MOVING ON#anyways#JINNNNš«¶š«¶š«¶#the Jin fixation is soooo crazy rn#obsessed w him tbh#since atlas is so obsessed w spin-offs they NEED to give me a Strega spinoff#like I do NOT need to see the phantom thieves for the umpteenth time GIVE ME STREGA PLEASEEE PLEASE PLEA#no hate to the phantom thieves still love them š«¶ I just need them to MOVE and make room for some other cast members š«¶#IM JUST SAYINGHGGG#still love them tho#all Iām saying is atlas has soooo many cool side characters that perhaps they should oh I donāt know maybe focus on them a little more#please#for my personal sake#they should make a Strega spinoff and in the title screen say āfor tumblr user gio-cosmoāā#come on atlas Iām waiting š¤·āāļøš¤·āāļøš¤·āāļø#LMAOOO#persona 3#p3#jin shirato#persona 3 reload
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I am in no way an expert on Hu Jing as a character (or any despair time character I think. since I really only watch when it comes out) but even so. I think a lot of people fail to understand what she's about and that's why she's so disliked. shrugs.
#aka she's a deconstruction of the āno one will continue the killing game right guys!?ā shtick#which is typically seen with the more positive members of cast in danganronpa#hu's way of thinking is very flawed and would have been what kept them from finding the truth#and with a cast who majorly accepts that the killing game will happen it's understandable why hu stands out like a sore thumb#but this belief is because of who she is as a person and as a consequence of her life until the killing game#however no one wants to consider how the āhopeless childā wants to believe in the innocence of others to a fault#almost as if she's clinging onto something to believe in (something that david's actions deny for her and so she doubles down on nico-#being innocent instead when they are ready to admit to what they did)#idk. i think hu is interesting so it's sad to see her reduced to being annoying when she is. not having a good time#of course if it's down to a taste in character thing and hu isn't it then i understand it's just. sigh.#sometimes it feels like no thought is being given as to WHY she's acting the way she currently is#whatever. the women in drdt are all amazing and i'll defend them to my death.
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If you're asking why I came back only to rb a billion PGR memes.
I'm plotting. Shhhh.
#lien speaks#I'll allow myself to talk about the project for a teensy tiny bit buuuut#I'm fandubbing PGR āØ#We've been at it for a week now wHOAAAAAA (casting call ended november 4th wHOAAAAAAAA)#But I've been working on this thing since July which is hilarious given I started this darn game back in June (chasing white hair male sigh#The project is going really well and I'm sO excited because all my cast members are AMAZING and I'm so glad I picked who I did for the proj#*project#It does feel really nice to actually be doing something that I want to do#like albeit I'm also balancing between this and my dayjob which my dayjob is extremely unstable and doesn't pay well at all (it lied :I)#So financial wise I'm Shit and stressed. but I haven't been this happy in sO long and it feels SOOOOOO NICE!!!#BEAT THAT SAD!!!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHHAHA#I know there isn't a lot of folks who care much for this over here which it's fine it's my blog I yap about whatever in life#but like. genuinely doing this and doing more of this hobby makes me unbelievably happy and I really hope I can keep going at it in the#future#the only thing is just balancing between two jobs basically to get paid properly and OURGHHHHHH#I hate existing.#I would talk more about it because it does make me very happy and excited but m( . 3 .)m then I'd /only/ be talking about that here haha#It matters to me and only me and it's nice to just log that joy somehow someway haha
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wait i wanna talk about my anni gripes a bit but i. rly dont like how the pt1 conclusion leaned into gran not being lonely enough or whatever. just make logia leave cuz they realize theyre unconciously affecting things or whatever T_T? its not like gran wouldve killed the eternals/shinsha in those moments anywayT_T????? the rest of the narrative was stellar (aside from my overarching dislike of simulation), i dont,,,,think that was needed at all,,,,,,u alrdy brought in no rain no rainbow + anime lines + mom anyway!! thats enough!!
#stardust speaking !#im RLY glad they saved logia tho i was So scared theyd do another anni with ppl vanishing#ive said this before but the power of choosing is like. my fav thing. and was my fav thing with the last msq update#so when the dialogue box changed....T___T <-cried#choosing to save choosing to be kind choosing to continue walking#hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh#anni was so good i love the au versions. i love how many cast members was mentioned i love scatha fighting the anger love love love it#i do like logia essentially being in every time all at once. and how hard they worked to grab moms feelings for captain;_;#the effects r amazing the eternals vs logia wasssssoooo good#using wilnas uncap sprite & og sprite to make their attack 'moving' was SO smart#aaa anni events aaaa
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for the 'why wouldn't date them'
charles, hawkeye, trapper
and i think you might be into twin peaks? if so, dale cooper and donna hayward
whichever ones you want to do :)
Ahhhhhh omg thank you for all of these I want to do them ALL but let's go backwards.
Donna Hayward
Ok so the thing is I AM into Twin Peaks but it's been a while since I've seen it and I tried to watch The Return but I was too stupit to understand much less enjoy it :( sowwy. So I would be dating my own flawed incomplete interpretation of a person, really. Typical Twin Peaks.Ā
Anyways I love Donna! I think we have similar personalities and stuff. In all brutal honesty I think if I were in her situation with a friend like Laura Iād have done similar things. Also yeah maybe her actions did lead a man to suicide but that was NOT her fault. I think the only three things that would prevent an attempt at a relationship here areĀ
1) The obvious. Her taste in men = atrocious. In all the rest of these hypotheticals where the character is already canonically in a relationship or has feelings for another character Iām just like yeah the more the merrier but if Donna insists on inviting her insufferable ass boyfriend into the mix I could NOT fucking do it Iām sorry.Ā
2) This girl is not ready for a relationship yet after All That god damn. But then again neither am I so maybe that balances out. We would need to spend some time as support group buddies just hugging and crying a lot before even considering a date.Ā
3) It is unlikely we would ever interact as I am never setting foot in that town ever in my life are you kidding me. Donna is super pretty in both her incarnations but Iām sorry I donāt think any pussy pops severely enough for me to risk going to fucking doorknob hell or some shit.
Dale Cooper
Ignore everything I said in that last paragraph. I change my mind. I forgot my beautiful autism creature husband is here. I would risk it all for a date with Dale Cooper and so would all who know and perceive the truth. AND heās got two hot girlfriends with him at least one of whom is ALSO an autism creature??? Sign me the FUCK up for this polycule IMMEDIATELY.Ā āOh but OP what about the horrorsā I donāt even fucking care itās fine. Dale can have little an evil doppelganger. As a treat.
Still there are some problems:
1) Dale is an FBI agent and Harry is a cop. Booooooo!!!! But maybe if Annie and Caroline and I unionize we can force them to quit their jobs.Ā
2) Unclear if I would be forced to join the Black Lodge Horror Vision Rotation along with Annie and Caroline. Boring and time consuming task and unlike Laura you donāt even get to do a Big Scream.
3) I personally actually donāt like pie or coffee at all :( Iām sorry babygirl I understand if this is a deal breaker.Ā
Trapper McIntyreĀ
You know thatĀ āgolden retriever boyfriendā joke? Trapper is like THE golden retriever boyfriend to me. Which I mean as an absolute compliment! Golden retrievers are friendly, helpful, adorable, lovable dogs. I am always up to pet a golden retriever.
But the thing is, I would never get one myself. Theyāre just a bit too big, bit too much energy, bit too messy, and anyways I prefer cats. No hate, no judgment, just a series of tiny preferences. Not into jocks, not into casual no-strings-attached type relationships, not super into kids, you know how it is. Boring and petty answer but I just feel like this adorable happy-go-lucky goldie deserves the PERFECT forever home and obviously heās one of the most popular of all the dogs at the Mashblr shelter so I know heāll get adopted super fast. So I can turn my attention to the miserable ass overbred old cat in the corner <3
Hawkeye Pierce
Oh, Hawkeye. I just donāt think so. Idk whatās wrong with me but I have to work to see Hawkeye as like. A dateable entity in my mind. Heās our little scrunkly! Itād be weird to date a scrunkly. BUT maybe Iāve just been overexposed to him purely by dint of being in the fandom heās the main character of, because objectively I DO find Mr. Aldaās portrayal of him in certain scenes to be Attractive (TM), and seeing clips of his charisma and charm and humor and all that good handsome stuff is literally what got me to check out the show in the first place! Man. What happened. Hmm.Ā
I think one issue is that scenes where heās explicitly trying to be Romantic and/or Seductive have just never done it for me. Like comparing Hawkeyeās lovey scenes with Kyung Soon to Charlesā with Martine, thereās no contest in how they make me feel. To me, Hawkeye is honestly at his most appealing when heās radiating Friend Energy, which is why his casual relationships actually work really well IMO; you feel like heās truly a great pal to the nurses he hooks up with. This is also, I think, one of Piercintyreās great strengths as a ship, because Hawkeye and Trapper both have amazing Friend Energy and then their natural compatibility makes that bleed seamlessly into sweet romantic vibes. And to be clear I would LOVE to be in a Friends To Lovers relationship too but unfortunately I am cringely obsessed with loveydovey romance in a way Iām not sure Hawkeye is even capable of. Plus thereās also just the fact that Iām a shy waiting til marriage person and I suck at banter and yeah itās just not working. In conclusion neither Hawkeye nor Trapper should date me they should date each other!! But we knew that :P
THAT CUNT
There are 10000000 reasons not to date Charles. But I will be doing it anyways ^_^ Peace and love on planet earth <3
Anyways Iām not bringing up his Problematicness as a reason here because I didnāt bring it up for anyone else and nobody noticed, so why should it be any different with him. Like no obviously I would not date this dumbfuck racist but I also would not date a guy who thinks itās a funny prank to make a woman think sheās being sexually assaulted. I also for that matter would not date a guy who works with the dumbfuck racist and is like aw, ya know what, heās not that bad really :) the second they have a chance to have a bonding moment. I guess I have decided to be a buzzkill about that forever now btw sorry :( oh wellĀ
But ok no real talk I would Not date Charles unless one very specific condition is met, which is that I have whatever magic stardust they sprinkled on his single-episode love interests before they put them in the story that made him be utterly besotted with them, because more than any other character on the show, it seems, the difference between Regular Charles and Charles In Love is so hysterically huge??? Like fuck. My dudes. Weāve done it. We found the one villain who actually does do a complete 180 and starts trying to act right as soon as a girl takes pity on him enough to look at him twice. (Disclaimer: I havenāt seen Aināt Love Grand yet Iām sorryyyyyyyy)Ā Heās so ~romantic~ and itās like catnip to me unfortunately. :\ The total opposite of what I said about Hawkeye up there. Offers a girl his stupid little teacup and recites poetry at her. Unbelievable. Did anyone ever think about the fact that maybe I would like to be offered a teacup and recited poetry at. No. You all only think about yourselves.Ā Ā
Like even though objectively the way he nukes his relationship with Martine was hurtful to both of them, heās so Tender the whole time itās insane. She turned him into her pauvre petit miaou miaou overnight. I want that power so fucking bad I NEED that power so fucking bad. Say it with me everyone. I Could Fix Him. (āBut OP Martine and Donna DIDNāT fix him he still left them both and never mentioned them again?ā Yes but donāt worry they were just loosening the lid on his jar a little bit. Iāll get him open youāll see. Heās gonna be soooo well trained when Iām done Iāll make him apologize to Maxwell and everything. He wonāt even need the shock collar after a few weeks.)
But yeah if I have to like, try to appeal to him on my own itās not fucking happening. I have no desire to hear the equivalent of a DOS deepfake hologram that has become evil due to being trained on text scraped from youtube comments tell me Iām ugly and stupid, which is exactly what would happen. Up til now Iāve sidestepped the issue that I do not think any of these people would give me the time of day (except Maxwell who would take pity on me probably because he is sososo Good) but I cannot ignore how much Charles just would Not like me. I donāt know how the selfshipper community does it theyāre braver than any fucking US marine over there fr. Charles would look at me like I was a gross little bug on the ground and I canāt escape it. Oh well. Who needs him. Whereās your sister you dipshit Iām about to GET IT
#THANK YOU for this kind ask beloved mutual!! Sorry it got long and weird it's been a rough week and I'm afraid that may have bled through#to all these answers which I'm so irritated at myself for but I can't fix it OTL#Starky loves answering questions#majorbaby#I LOVE when people notice what fandoms I'm in it makes me so happy thank youuuu#anyways DOS leading romantic hero of all time but nobody ever let him fucking BE one. humanity deserves to be driven to extinction for this#wtf is ''You give the longest compliments I've ever heard'' ''Then let me be more succinct [adorable kiss]'' BITCH I'M GOING TO KILL YOU#WHAT IF I WANTED A LITTLE KISS HMM!!!!!!! WHAT THEN!!!!!!!#Anyways I used to get so sad knowing my favorite characters wouldn't like me. Cried alone in my room over it as a kid.#Now it's just like whatever. Join the club.#Anyways I LOVE how DOS' insanely amazing ability to sell those one-episode romances better than any other main cast member#inadvertently makes Charles seem uniquely susceptible to falling in love at first sight and being an embarrassing little hopeless romantic#which is an absolutely hysterical trait to give your rude brooding misanthropic antagonist#''I hate everyone in the world and they are all beneath me#except for this random girl I met yesterday who is Everything to me I love her SO much <3<3<3''#SEE. LITERALLY A GUY FROM AN X READER ''I CAN FIX HIM'' FIC.#Actually in my experience most X Reader types are fairly uninterested in fixing the him in question despite all the bad press they get#like at most they only care that the Him is nice to THEM and sometimes not even that#like I'm sure this is a phenomenon IRL but it's really not there much in the kinds of fanfiction#that everyone blames for causing said IRL phenomenon#I know this because I AM an I Can Fix Him person! And I'd be the one to find Fixing Him content if it existed!#for me it's only fun if there's fixing involved tbh. I don't want a Mafia Boss Wattpad BF that's not fun.#that's literally just a guy being mean to you. do we not get enough of that IRL. I want a little project!!!#these tags are one giant red flag for me as a person but you should have known I was unsalvageable the second I begged off a date with Trap#NOT the behavior of a mentally well person#mash
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i think comments of this brand speak of the speaker as much as what they are trying to say. they are trying to reassure you that you're only "turning 29 again" because they themselves have (or had) a crippling fear of ageing. these are verbatim things i would tell myself when i was turning 30 because i was deeply, cripplingly afraid of turning that age as someone who went through their entire 20's not feeling like a real adult. entering my 30s, the Proper Real Adult age, felt even more harrowing of a concept. i'd wager that's at least where a portion of the comments are coming from. the 'don't tell your SO they'll leave you' is just plain sexist and shitty and ageist, though.
the older i get and the closer i am to reaching 30, the more the people around me try to deny me my age. itās a constant āoh youāre just turning 29 again teehee š¤ā or ādont tell your SO that, heāll leave you for a younger model šā and i just???? hate it?????????
i spent my entire teenaged years fighting for my life. i crawled through the deepest pits of my depression to cling to the promise of a life beyond that pain. i was so convinced that i was going to die young, that i would never see the grace of my age starting with a 2, let alone 3.
so im going to turn 30, and thereās not a damn thing anyone can do to stop me from loving it.
#we as a society hold so much fear and disgust and revulsion around ageing it's really fucked up#saw a tiktok the other day of Shameless cast members then and now#and all people could comment on was how some of the cast had not aged in years and how AMAZING that was#we praise people for looking the same for 20+ years#because the reverse (displaying signs of ageing over time) is so unpalatable to us even though it is the natural way of things#it's bizarre#and what does it say about how we view aged people in society?#we see them as non entities
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May 16-20, 2024 - DJ Qualls and Ty Olsson are getting married!
"(...) And then, Ty and I were- became, like, inseparable at the very beginning. Like, just immediately, and over the last ten years our relationship evolved to what it is today, and now we're getting married. It's just so crazy that this person who was just my friend, now I think about all the time and he sends me the best messages and he supports me and loves me unconditionally in the right way. Because I would never abuse that. (...) And now we're going to be old men together."
DJ Qualls (Garth in Supernatural), was recently in a podcast "Locked and Probably Loaded with DJ and Kelly" (YouTube link & Spotify link) discussing his experience with Supernatural and his friendships with various cast members. He also talked about his relationship with Ty Olsson (Benny and Eli in Supernatural) and mentioned that they were getting married (quote above).
DJ also recently responded to a congrats tweet [x]:
And to some other tweets as well [x] [x] (and this):
On the podcast, DJ talked about how he'd initially declined the offer to play Garth and it took a bit to convince him. And he ended up finding some of the most amazing friends and his future husband.
Congratulations!
May 18 update: Misha Collins has congratulated the couple on twitter which gained some traction [x]. The post was liked by both DJ and Ty. Stands also had something to say in light of people not realising sooner [x]. She admitted however that she hadn't known about the new until recently herself.
#why is supernatural trending#spn#supernatural#dj qualls#ty olsson#honestly this is so amazing#and it's not even the first time that spn cast members end up together
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sometimes i watch golden girls and i just tear up remembering everything each cast member did for the queer community
estelle getty lost her nephew to AIDS and moved in with him during the last months of his life to take care of him. she started a foundation that cares for people affected by AIDS that's still there to this day. she saw one of the writers on her show was queer, walked right up to him and said "you're one of us!" and promised to protect him. she put her career on the line to become an outspoken ally of AIDS patients at a time when it would've been career suicide
bea arthur was a staunch gay and trans ally who donated a lot of her time and money to helping homeless lgbt youth. when she died, she left them thousands of dollars to stay afloat after she was gone. she was incredibly socially active in the queer community!
rue mcclanahan was a staunch advocate of marriage rights for gay couples and openly devoted her time and money for the fight for equality. she also openly participated in queer spaces and loved the community with her entire heart. she was intimately aware of gay mens' particular love for her character blanche and she fully embraced it
everybody knows by now about betty white's activism, but i'll say it anyway. not only did she join the fight for marriage equality, but she was a great mother to her lesbian stepdaughter. she participated in anti-bullying campaigns specifically against lgbt youth. she accompanied liberace to events because it wasn't safe for him to be out. she loved us and she fought for us just like the others
all four of them did SO MANY amazing things for us, and it makes me happy that we had people like them -- that we still do in people like dolly parton! we didn't deserve them. i wish i could've met all of them and told them how grateful i am!
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the moments in between
Pairing: Joel Miller x Fem!ReaderĀ
Summary: When Joel and Ellie arrive at the Jackson commune, his strong frame and intense gaze captivate you. But as the days pass, you lose hope that he might be drawn to you as well. That is, until the walls come crashing down and the truth finally reveals itself.
Word Count: 7.3k [slow burn]
A/N: I put a lot of love and time into this one. It's my longest fic so far but it didn't feel hard, which I like to believe is a good thing. Hope it resonates, hope you feel the feels and the yearning between these twoālet me know! Hope you're well.
A breeze follows Tommy as he saunters in through the doors of the Tipsy Bison, the soft click of his boot heels echoing off the wood with each easy step. The cowboy hat on his head casts a shadow over his eyes until he takes it off, his dark hair cascading down over his ears. Thereās a small smile playing on his lips that makes you narrow your eyes.
Cleaning the bartop suddenly loses its appeal, but you donāt stop, only slow down. The fresh, tangy scent of lemongrass continues to waft up from the motion.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā
āWe close early on Sundayās, officer,ā you tease as he climbs onto a stool.Ā
He frowns as he sets his hat aside. āI donāt look like a cop, do I?ā You shrug, and he chuckles as his gaze roves over to the pool room. āNate back there? Yo, Nate!āĀ
āEvening, Tom,ā the older man calls back as he polishes a cue ball.Ā
āJoelās made it into town.ā Thereās no overt emotion in the way he shares the news, but you can see that itās all in his eyes as he waits for you to react.Ā Ā
āJoel, Joel? As in your brother?ā He nods, still in disbelief himself. āOh my gosh, thatās amazing, Tommyāright? What the heck.ā He used to talk about him all the time.Ā
His exhale makes way for a shaky smile, āI know. Made it in not too long ago with a young girl heās looking after,ā he tells you, voice thick with a mix of emotions. āHeās outside. Wanted to come in and see if youād let us grab a drink.ā He runs a hand through his hair. āKnow itās late. Promise Iāll make up for the trouble.ā He knows itās no trouble. Not when it comes to him.Ā
He turns around, barstool squeaking, and waves Joel in through the window.Ā
You move to start working on their whiskies. āMake it up by letting me be the babyās godmother?ā The glasses clink as you set them onto the bar and begin pouring the caramel colored liquid, smirking when you meet his gaze.
Tommy isnāt completely opposed to the idea. Youād been in Jackson since the beginning, a friend to him and Maria in every sense of the word. Arguably family. āIf you can manage not to tick me off until the little one gets here.ā Despite his words, his eyes are fond.Ā
The door creaks open, and Joel strides in, scanning the room. There are pictures on the walls of American icons and landmarks, and old Polaroids of commune members. Thereās a guarded confidence to the way he walks, an intensity.Ā
Tommy quickly leans in and whispers, āHe means well. Itās been a long day.āĀ
Joel takes a seat beside his brother and acknowledges you with a curt nod, tugging on the collar of his shirt.Ā Ā
āWelcome to Jackson,ā you greet, introducing yourself afterwards.
āJoel,ā he says, taking you in with a steady gaze.Ā
āTommyās told me a lot about you.ā You push their glasses closer to them in an encouragement to start drinking.
Joel takes his first sip and fights back a reflexive grimace. Itās been a while, but it's good. Good enough to make him feel pleasantly warm as it glides down. Tommy drinks off his brotherās lead, and you realize just how alike they look. Joelās hair is a little shorter and accented with streaks of gray, but they both have those same dark, telling eyes.Ā
They fall into light conversation, but itās clearly not what they'd talk about if they were alone. Thatās when you sense the distance. The slight edge to the space between them. Itās why Tommy resorts to drawing you in, the two of you ripping off each other as Joel listens, fine with not having to speak until this whole little ordeal was winding to an end. However, he does sit up a little straighter whenever you laugh. You pour them more whiskey when their glasses get empty.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā
Eventually, the remaining light outside fades away. Tommy hisses at the sight, standing. āI gotta get home to Maria,ā he says, stretching his back. Joel moves to get up too, until, āAt least finish off this glass, man. Youāve earned it.ā Tommy squeezes his brotherās shoulder. He means it genuinely, at least. āIāll catch up with you tomorrow, Joel. Thanks again for this,ā he tells you.Ā
āBye, sheriff,ā you call after him. Tommy scoffs.Ā Ā
Joel realizes just how quiet it is when you move aside to tinker with a bison trinket sitting on the counter, unsure of what to say with Tommy gone. He knows you can see him looking at you. āSo, are you here by yourself?ā he finally asks.Ā
A playful smile tugs at your lips. āThatās not a creepy question at all,ā you tease, quickly gathering that he doesnāt find the implication funny. āUncle Nate?ā you call.Ā
āBusy!āĀ Ā
You raise your brows at Joel. āNot alone.ā
Nate was chosen family. The man taught you everything you know about shooting, fishing, and survival even though you gave him a hard time for it when you were younger. He was also the founder of the Tipsy Bison. He only came into the bar on the weekends when he wasn't on patrol. His time in the military all those years ago made it hard to step away from a life of service.Ā
āWe were cleaning when Tommy came in,ā you tell Joel. He takes in that information wordlessly.Ā
āYou arenāt much for talking, are you?ā Joel takes a sip from his glass. āNothing wrong with that. Must mean you donāt miss much. Really observant.ā When he doesnāt respond, you smile shyly, realizing he probably just wanted to relax after a long day. āGuess I wonāt stand here and talk your ears off.āĀ
The floor creaks as you disappear into the recreation room with Nate, rounding the corner. Joel exhales, shoulders dropping from being drawn up. He almost misses your company.Ā
Nate sits hunched over a word search puzzle, using the pool table as if it's a normal desk. He doesnāt look up at you, even when you give an affectionate tug to his curly gray ponytail. It was something youād been doing since the days you both were out on your own and had to stay quiet all the time. Back when there was no safety, no security, no commune.Ā
āOuch,ā he drones, unphased.Ā
āAre you gonna come out and meet Tommy's brother?ā you ask, low so Joel canāt hear. āI feel like you guys have a lot in common: brooding and grumpy.ā Pride flutters in your chest when the manās lips twitch.Ā
āIāll meet himā¦ eventually. Gotta finish this puzzle.ā You realize thereās a small hourglasses going, the sand swiftly filling the bottom portion. āThere ya areāserendipity.ā He circles the letters.Ā
Word searches were something he recently started doing. When you have a past as extensive as his, itās always chasing after you in one way or another. Especially in those quiet moments that sneak up on you. He claimed that seeking out words from amid an ordered chaos keeps the racing thoughts at bay whenever they come rushing in.Ā
Joel is finished by the time you join him again, and you realize heād waited instead of calling out. Already standing, ready to go.Ā
āAnything else I can get you?āĀ
He shakes his head. āI appreciate your hospitality.āĀ
Joel turns to leave but you keep talking, āSo I reckon Tommy already squared you away with a house and a tour of the town?āĀ
He stops. āIām across the street from him. Gettinā the tour tomorrow.āĀ Ā
āThatās great, Iām really glad you found us.ā You sound so genuine that thereās a flutter in his gut. āWeāre a pretty crazy bunch, but I think youāre gonna like it here.āĀ
āHope so.ā Those are the words he leaves you with.
Your eyes stay trained on his back as he makes his way towards the door, stride the same as when he first arrived. Perhaps a little looser. Before he exits the bar, his eyes catch a glimpse of one of the decorative license plates secured to the wall: Austin, Texas.Ā
Shortly after he makes it outside, his heart rate ticks up in that impending way he wishes wasnāt so familiar, breath catching in his throat as if heād forgotten how to breathe. Thereās no escaping the panic as it sets in, surging through him. A few staggering steps allow him to brace a hand on a wooden directory board.Ā
You see it all from inside. At first, you think heās trying to read the sign, but then he hunches over more and grips his chest. Without thinking, you jog towards the doors.Ā
āJoel?ā You call once youāve broken outside.Ā
Itās a cool spring night, a crescent moon shares its pale glow from above. Most of Jackson is already tucked away inside or at least halfway there. But in this sliver of time, it feels like itās just the two of you outside. Joel doesnāt let on that heād heard you, but the moment youāre close enough, you recognize whatās going on. You press your palm to his back to let him know youāre there. That heās still here.Ā
āConcentrate on your breathing. In and out, just like that,ā you encourage, settling on rubbing his back in measured passes. Then you go quiet on the off chance he needs that.Ā
In your newfound silence, Joel is forced to focus on the shaky breaths rising from his lungs. Thatās when he accepts heās not in control. Not in the grand scheme of things. Thereās a whole big fallen world just outside the gates of this haven. A world that had taken people he loved and was cruel enough to let him be the one who lived to tell the tale. The heat that rises to his cheeks is made up of frustration more than distress, crackling like pop. Like coals.Ā
The ground takes on a vignette as he stares at it, his vision briefly closes in. You never withdraw your touch.Ā
When his breaths eventually begin to steady, you remember how to breathe yourself. With a tired exhale, he straightens back up to his full height, and you take a few small steps away. Maybe this wasnāt new, but a fact of life for the man whoād rode into Jackson in an air of mystery and a young girl by his side. Maybe he never wanted you to get a glimpse at this side of him. If he feels that way, he doesnāt make it obvious. He almost looks appreciative that youād bothered enough to care.Ā
āSorry to scare you,ā he rasps, not meeting your gaze even though he can feel it. You want to tell him that there isnāt much that scares you anymore. At least thatās what you like to believe. āIām usually alone.āĀ
Except, tonight, he wasnāt. And maybe that wasnāt such a terrible thing.Ā
ā¢ā¢ā¢
Howdy Stranger
This is Jackson Hole
The last of the Old WestĀ
Joel reads the painted wooden sign as Tommy and Maria show him and Ellie around. There are people everywhere. Children playing outside, adults fluttering in and out of shops. All while the Teton mountains loom and watch over it all with their snow-capped peaks. He looks over at the girl when she nudges his arm, pointing to a Calico lounging on a porch. Despite her beaming smile, all he offers is a low hum.Ā
It was hard to be in the now when his thoughts were split between the past and future. Up until Jackson, there was no such thing as stability, and he couldnāt help but think about the day that the rug would be pulled from beneath the commune as well. Ellieās smile fades when she notices the harsh squint of his face. He kicks himself for it.Ā Ā Ā
āCat hater,ā she mumbles under her breath.
Joel grunts and directs his attention back to his brother.Ā
When the tour comes to an inevitable end, Ellie sings Jacksonās praises after Tommy and Maria go their separate ways with a promise to reconnect later that day. He lets her talk as they make their way back to their new house, idly agreeing every once in a while. A few curious eyes fall on them as they walk, but Joel doesnāt pay them any mind.Ā
āDude, are you even listening to me?ā Ellie stops walking to give him a flat look.Ā
āI hear you,ā he insists. āBeen hearing you for the past ten minutes.ā
Thereās no snark in his tone, but Ellie still feels the slight sting of offense. āWell, sorry for being excited about having a nice place to live for once. Itās not like I was born into hell or anythingāI mean the Boston QZ.ā Sarcasm drips from her voice as she starts walking again, faster so it looks like theyāre not together.
Joel swallows down guilt like itās just another pill. His legs are long, so it doesnāt take much to catch back up with her.
āHeyā¦Kidā¦Ellie.ā She keeps ignoring him. āThis is new for me too, okay? Everybodyās got a different way of processing, can we agree on that?ā Itās a fair enough proposal. He never had been forward when it came to sharing his thoughts. āWasnāt trying to hurt your feelings.āĀ
āYeah, yeah,ā she murmurs, deciding to take a break from her rambling for his sake. The mutual silence isnāt so bad.Ā
Someone he isnāt expecting to see is you. Youāre wearing a backpack and ushering a line of young kids into the community center. One of the little girls stops and stretches her arms up towards you, earning a playful eyeroll before being lifted onto your hip. Joel doesnāt miss the way the afternoon sunlight catches your face.Ā
ā¢ā¢ā¢
The next day, a faint thump against the door startles Ellie as she sketches in the dining room. Rather than getting up from the table, she remains still, pencil in hand and brows furrowed. Upstairs, the spray of the shower continues as Joel lets it drown out everything else. Three light knocks eventually sound, and she musters up the courage to scurry to the front.Ā
She peeks out the window first, spotting you. Someone she hadnāt seen around. An amused smile pulls at her lips at the way youāve seemingly wrestled the big basket youāre holding into a better grip than before.Ā
When she opens the door, you let out a relieved sigh. āSpecial delivery,ā you say before introducing yourself.Ā
āThatās a really pretty name,ā she compliments, already warming up to you. āIām Ellieāis all that stuff for us?ā When you nod, she excitedly steps aside and ushers you in.Ā
āIām not gonna say you shouldnāt have because thatād be a lie,ā she shamelessly admits. āYou can put it right over here.ā You follow her into the living room and place the welcome basket on the coffee table.Ā
A few of the ladies you volunteer with helped you put it together after your shift counseling for the spring break camp. There were cookies, seeds, natural soaps, feminine hygiene products, and even a knit blanket that looked particularly soft and cozy. Ellie wastes no time reaching out to run her fingers over it. A laugh bubbles up your throat when her jaw drops.Ā
āThis is literally what clouds feel like.ā She haphazardly pulls the blanket out the basket, wrapping it around herself like a cape. āIf Joel says anything, this was specifically included for me.āĀ
āIām sure it wouldnāt hurt to share if he asked nicely,ā you reason, amused. Ellieās nose wrinkles. āBut to be fair, we did think youād be the one to really appreciate it.ā
She smiles at being considered. āWho made it? This is, like, next level.āĀ
āA woman named Emilia,ā you tell her. āShe actually made me one back when Jackson was first being built up that I still have,ā you tell her, taking a seat on the couch and looking around. The evening sunlight pours in through the windows, casting golden streaks onto the floors. āNow sheās always got a few on standby.āĀ
Ellie sits beside you, reaching out to dig through the other contents in awe. āThey told us the commune's only, like, seven years old on our tour yesterday,ā she recounts. Think youāll have your blanket forever?āĀ
āForeverās an awful long time. It might hold up,ā you think aloud. Ellie nods, contemplative. āI can take you by to meet her sometime, if youād like. Sheās the resident seamstress, so youāll probably end up crossing paths anyways.āĀ
āWhat about you? What do you do?ā she asks, giving you her full attention.Ā
āI mainly help coordinate community events. Been stepping in to assist with the youth spring break camp for the last couple days, though,ā you say. āAlso bartend on the nights that I feel like it. Just for fun, you know?āĀ
Ellie's face lights up. āIāve had whiskey before.ā She puffs out her chest when she says it, and you play into her pride by raising an impressed brow. The first and last time you had a sip was when you snuck it from Nate as a teen. āBut thatās really cool, though. The community stuff and all that.ā You can tell by her tone that she means it. In more ways than one, youāre reminded of your younger self.Ā
āJoelās gonna join the patrol. He says Iām too young, but thatās just bullshit.ā She says the last part lower as if heās somewhere listening. āIāll figure out a way to make him cave.ā Thereās an air of confidence to her voice that suggests sheās done it before. The thought warms a tiny portion of your chest.
āIāve gone out with my uncle Nate a few times. It can be a lot,ā you admit. āHe just wants you safe, Nateās the same way.āĀ
As Joel stops at the top of the staircase, freshly showered, he catches those last words. Heād know your voice even if itād been forever. His footsteps are quiet as he descends the stairs, but you hear him coming nevertheless. Ellieās too busy sniffing the pine soap as you straighten up and glance his way. Joelās eyes are as observant as you remember when they land on you, seeing into you, it seems. His damp hair is combed back in a way that makes him look more distinguished.Ā
āThere you are.ā You stand up with a smile. Youād been wondering how he was doing since the panic attack.
He wishes your warmth wasn't so compelling.Ā Ā
Ellie whips around to look at him. āI know you said not to open the door to strangersāwhich is practically everybody at this pointābut sheās really nice and brought us gifts so you canāt be mad at me,ā she rushes out. He clocks the blanket around her shoulders.Ā
He hmphs. āThatās how they get you.ā Heās not being serious, but Ellie frowns, trying to read through his eternal poker face. āTreats and a friendly smile.ā Your lips twitch in amusement as Ellie narrows her eyes.Ā
When Joel starts walking your way, she consoles herself with the fact that he would've already asked you to leave if he sensed your intentions were off. The commune wasnāt filled with questionable people like that anyways. The two of them didnāt have to be apprehensive of every soul they came across anymore.Ā
Heās close enough now that you can smell the cedar soap on his skin. āIām not a stranger,ā you lightly defend. āNot entirely.ā You look from Ellie to Joel.Ā
A wall rises in real time, shutting you out right along with the night you met. It happens in his eyes just like everything does. He hadnāt mentioned you to her, and it was your mistake for believing he wouldāve at least passed on a name.Ā
You swallow back a small lump in your throat that may not be entirely just. āAnyways, hopefully you guys will be able to put this stuff to use.āĀ
āOf course we will,ā Ellie pipes up. āAre you leaving already?ā She hadnāt missed the finality that had crept into your tone.Ā
You nod. āDonāt wanna take up too much of your evening. I actually meant to come by sooner.āĀ
āWell, are you going to the dining hall for dinner?ā Her gaze flicks to Joel. āMaybe you can come with us.āĀ
Joel knows heās in trouble when he hears the fondness in Ellieās voice. Itās the same sentiment he was straining to tamper down within himself. Every time he opened his mouth or looked at you, it tried to claw its way to the forefront. The last thing he needed was another person getting close enough to see that he was a million tiny pieces being held together by the glue of whatever god was keeping him alive.Ā
You decline her invitation, expressing plans to go to your uncleās place. But you give her a rain check. When you go to leave, Joel allows his eyes to flitter down the rest of your body.Ā
That wouldnāt be the last he saw of you. But it was always from afar, lingering on the outskirts. Wishing there was a seamless way he could fall into your orbit without sending everything spiraling out of control.Ā
You were always looking right back at him with hope in your eyes, holding space. Waiting for your world to be shaken.Ā
ā¢ā¢ā¢
Laughter, chatter, and music drown out the insects that usually take precedence at night. Weeks of planning had finally come into fruition. All of Main Street is lined with fairy lights that cast their warm glow down on the summer festival. There was no shortage of entertainment, games, and food. It was a time to let loose and relish the sweetness in the air along with that of life.Ā
Nate plays his harmonica for a group of children around the bonfire, all clapping and stomping along. A smile graces your face as you walk by, waving at him. The fullness of your heart almost overrides the ache that has settled in the arches of your feet. Youād barely sitten down since earlier that morning when preparation began. There was a sense of responsibility that came along with the orange vest you were dawned in. The pressure to assist, and guide, and answer questions wasnāt all on you, but the other volunteers were better at taking breaks.Ā
Tommyās grainy voice breaks into the air through a megaphone, āThirteen-and-up three-legged races starting in five minutes, this is your last call. Grab a partner and make your way over to the east lawn,ā he says. āAgain, this is the last call.ā
Joel and Ellie already happen to be seated at a picnic table that gives them a perfect view of the race setup and Tommy facilitating in an orange vest of his own. Ellie had already worked through her first honey cake and was eyeing Joelās. He pretends not to notice until she looks up at him all wide-eyed.Ā Ā
āCan Iāā he slides his plate over to her. āThanks.āĀ
āYour eyes are bigger than your stomach,ā he lightly accuses, shaking his head.Ā
āWhat does that even mean?ā She takes a bite. āWeirdo.āĀ
Joel just grumbles and tosses a napkin her way. She wipes her mouth and keeps staring at him. Not because sheās waiting for an answer, but because thereās amusement sparkling in his eyes. Which happens more often now that theyād had a couple months to settle into Jackson. A laugh was coming, she could feel it.Ā
āQuit gawking at me and eat.ā Thereās a tell-tale waver in his voice.Ā
āNo.ā Ellie lightly kicks his shin beneath the table and thatās what sets him off.Ā
He tries to bite back a chuckle, but he gives in when it doesnāt work out, shoulders shaking. Ellie starts grinning at him from across the table, and he kicks her back with the tip of his boot.Ā
āHey!ā She breaks into giggles and retaliates. He lets her have the little victory.Ā
A small smile lingers on his face when he regains his composure. They sit in a comfortable silence as Ellie finishes the rest of her dessert, taking in the festivities around them.Ā
It isnāt long before a girl with dark hair approaches their table. Sheās a ball of masked nerves. āHi,ā she greets. āEllie, right?ā She says it as if itās possible for her to have forgotten. As if after they sat together at last weekās movie night, she hadnāt been thinking about her since.Ā
Ellie getās uncharacteristically squirmy. āOh. Hey, Dina.āĀ
Joel canāt believe it.
Dina tucks a flyaway behind her ear. āMy old partner bailed, so I was wondering if youād maybe wanna do the three-legged race with me. I think weād make a better team anyways.ā Then she glances at Joel. āIf you wouldnāt mind me stealing her away for a bit.āĀ
āTake her,ā Joel quips, making Dina laugh.Ā
Warmth rushes to Ellieās cheeks as she stands. āSure, letās go.āĀ
The two of them jog over to get prepped for the race. Joel watches the whole while, warmth kindling in his chest at the fact that she was slowly finding her tribe. The race doesnāt start for another couple minutes, and when it does, Ellie and Dina burst off into first. Itās intense. The whole ordeal is a mess of laughter, stumbling, and flailing limbs. In the end, the duo end up placing second, crossing the finish line only to fall into a heap of giggles with their legs tied together.Ā
Joel stands from the picnic table with a grunt to throw away all the empty plates. He has every intention to sit back down, but notices a few frazzled volunteers carrying mops and towels. Then his eyes rove over to the long line standing at the drink stands. Adults check their watches, children fidget. A woman in an orange vest is talking to another woman managing the stand. He doesnāt realize is you until you turn away from her and beeline towards the community center, looking stressed.Ā
āHey,ā he calls out to a stout man wearing an apron. āDo you know whatās going on?āĀ
Heās surprised Joel caught on. Everyone else was carrying on as usual, carefree and unaware. āThere was a spill at the community center. You know Mr. Robertsonās special Summer Fest punch?ā he asks in a thick Brooklyn accent, Joel nods because heād heard the rave. Apparently it was made especially for the festival. āKitchenās flooded with it. I didnāt have time to build an ark,ā he jokes.Ā Ā
Joel wrestles with himself. āIāll go see if I can help.āĀ
By the time you exit the community center, gaze fixed over your shoulder, you crash into Joel. He instinctively reaches out to steady you, touch firm but gentle. āWhoa, easy there.ā The low timbre of his drawl is enough to draw your mind away from all the noise. āYou alright? Here, letās get out of the way.ā You let him pull you aside by your elbow.Ā
When you look into his eyes, thereās so many things you wish it was the appropriate time to say. Itās been cordial between the two of you, but it always seemed like he was in a constant state of backing away, like an animal scared of giving into a primal craving.Ā Ā
There was always a reason why he couldnāt stay in your presence longer than he did. He had to get back to Ellie, or turn in early for his patrol shift the next day, or some other excuse. Even during the game nights you hosted, he would always leave before his belly was full and the real fun was about to begin. When everyone was finally free of the dayās worries and truly ready to talk, laugh, and let everything ride on the toss of a dice.Ā
Heād resigned himself to enjoying you in the little here and there, the moments in between. So much so that even Ellie had begun to notice. It was in the way he never allowed himself to lean in too close whenever you were at his side. Or never fully crawled out of his shell no matter how many times you smiled sweetly or let your fingertips brush his forearm.Ā
āDoes anything hurt?ā He asks more intently. As he scans you over, he notices your clothes. The lower portion of your vest and the thighs of your flared jeans are stained with a wet, dark substance.Ā
āIām fine, Joel.ā You pull away from him with more force than necessary, feeling guilty for the way he swallows and takes a step back. āSorry.ā You release a heavy exhale, tears welling in your eyes with a dull sting. āIām ruining everyoneās night.āĀ
Joel frowns. āNo youāre not. Tell me what happened.āĀ
āI was trying to transfer the extra beverage dispenser onto the wagon so I could wheel it out to the drink stand, but it slipped out of my grip,ā you explain. āThe lid came off and the punch spilled everywhere.ā You wipe your tears away quickly, as if theyāll stain too.Ā
āAccidents happen,ā Joelās tone is steady like scripture, tenderness peeking through just enough to cling onto. āEverybodyās fine. The world's still turning.ā
Nobody had reacted in an extreme manner. There were gasps and startled jumps, but assurances came rushing in as the janitorial volunteers insisted that theyād get everything cleaned up. Everyone in that kitchen knew that there were worse things in life than spilled juice. Sure, it was upsetting, considering the time Mr. Robertson spent and the people looking forward to drinking more, but it was a small mistake in the grand scheme of things. But when your heart is already heavy and your mind is tangled with other concerns, those little mishaps feel like the most devastating ones.Ā
There was a directness about Joel, though, that eased away the guilt crawling beneath your skin. It was like he understood what screwing up truly was and this was many light years from it.Ā
Dina spots Joel in the distance and points him out to Ellie. āThere he is over there.āĀ
Their smiles fall from their faces when they get closer and realize youāre crying. āHoly shit, what happened?ā Ellie looks between you and Joel, worry etched onto her face.Ā
āI just made a stupid mistake.ā You sniffle, trying to regain your composure, not wanting to worry them.Ā There was always something unavoidably daunting about seeing adults cry.Ā
āYou girls stay here with her for a second. Iāll be right back,ā Joel instructs.Ā
A new song starts up by the live band thatās playing. Itās an instrumental rendition of Every Breath You Take. A decent crowd has gathered, nibbling on sourdough and nodding to the melody. Some people are wrapped in each otherās arms. Joel soaks it all in as he navigates back to the racing lawn.Ā
Tommy claps him on the back when he makes it and Joel returns the gesture. āYou enjoying yourself, man?ā Tommy asks.Ā
āYeah,ā he says distractedly. āThere was a spill at the community center, so no more punch. You think you can get everybody on the same page?āĀ
āCopy that.āĀ
Tommyās voice carries through the megaphone as Joel makes his way back to you, the announcement fading with each step.Ā
āHowdy, folks. Some of you may have already heard, but in case you havenāt, thereās been a little spill and we are unfortunately all out of Mr. Robertsonās world famous punch for the night. We apologize if you didnāt get the chance to try it, but I promise weāll figure out a way to make it up to y'all. In the meantime, I heard the lemonade and ice tea aināt half bad.āĀ
His words blur into the background as Joel makes it back to you. There are a few disappointed groans, but nobody is completely devastated by the news. They keep carrying on just as he knew they would.Ā
Tears no longer streak your face when Joel makes it back, Ellie and Dina seeming to have lifted your spirits a little more.Ā
āDo you wanna go get cleaned up?ā Joel suggests.Ā
Now that youāre thinking about it, the feeling of your clothes sticking to your skin is beginning to grow uncomfortable. You take a deep breath at the thought of walking home, away from Summer Fest, all the energy, all the fun. Joel sees the disappointment on your face.Ā
āI can go with you,ā he offers.
ā¢ā¢ā¢
The walk to your house is quiet, the sounds of the night's festivities now distant. The porch steps creak gently under your weight as the two of you ascend them. Joel watches as you unlock the door, but finds himself cemented as you step inside. Confusion, appreciation, frustration, and want are all amalgamated into one look directed right his way. Without saying a word, you head further inside, leaving the door open.Ā
Joelās hands twitch at his sides like heās a live wire wrought with energy. Bugs would fly in if he didnāt do somethingāthatās the justification he creates. Youāre halfway to the laundry room when you hear the front door shut behind him as he follows after you.Ā
The living room is illuminated by dim lamplight as he walks through. A quick glance into the kitchen gives him sight of one of Ellieās more recent drawings stuck to the refrigerator door with a smiley face magnet. It's a portrait of your face that you agreed to sit for one lazy afternoon while Joel was away on patrol.Ā
The air smells like you. Understated and sweet, floral and earthen. Small plants line multiple windowsills despite how convinced you were that you couldnāt keep anything alive. The whole commune would be worse off without you and heād be the first to wilter away.Ā
At the sound of a zipper and clothes brushing against skin, he stops his pursuit of you. Miles away even though youāre mere yards apart. All he has is your shadow, dancing in the dim light pooling out of the laundry room and into the hall with him. He backs himself into the cool wall and closes his eyes, Adamās apple bobbing in his throat. Up and down and up again. An SOS in the middle of a sea when salvation was right within reach. It gets quiet after a while. No more running water, or cabinet doors, or shuffling around.Ā
āYou can let me in, you know?ā comes your voice, so light itās almost nothing. Joel releases a shaky breath and opens his eyes to the sight of you, dawned in old shorts and a graphic tee. You wish he would say something, anything. Share a fraction of whatās going on in his mind. āIām right here, Joel.āĀ
āI know. I see you.ā Thereās a defensive edge to his voice thatās wounded around the edges, as if heās trying to accommodate the truth that burns within his ribcage, his stomach, beneath the entirety of his skin.Ā
āSo now what?ā You swallow your nerves, studying his face, his neck. āWeāre just gonna keep seeing each other for the rest of our lives and thatās it? No knowing, no feeling, no experiencing?ā You ask. āNo loving?āĀ Ā
One by one, the walls close in, until it feels like youāre standing toe to toe with nothing but words as weapons and honesty being the only way out. Itās not a fight heās ready for. He can trek through the harshest winters, fight off monsters and all manner of men, but heās defenseless in front of you.
There will be no victory, no rising from battle with a bloodied fist or blade, or immediate relief akin to the coming of spring. The only way out is to dig within, and he already knew what resided there. It was a matter of carving it out and laying it on an altar for you to see as you did the same. Itās not a fight at all, it's a sacrifice. All risk with probable reward.Ā
āI donāt want that to be all that we do.ā Youāve never heard Joel speak so quietly. Itās as if thereās Infected lurking nearby and he doesnāt want to be devoured. āThink about you too much.āĀ
āI was starting to think you didnāt like me at all. Not like how I like you,ā you say.Ā
Joel swallows thickly, warm all over. āHow do you like me?āĀ
You push out of the laundry room doorway to step closer to him, placing a gentle hand on his chest, feeling the warmth beneath his shirt, the beating of his heart. You let it thrum against your palm until a shallow breath slips past his lips, then you move to cup his stubbled jaw, lightly brushing your thumb over his lower lip. The urge to touch you back grows so great that he finally gives in and lets both of his strong hands settle on your waist.Ā Ā
Joel can hear his heartbeat in his ears as he leans in towards you, studying your face, searching for any sign that this might be some elaborate ruse. Instead, he finds something so poignant that he doesnāt have the words to define. Itās as terrifying as it is wonderful to, for once, be unable to size up what heās up against.Ā
You close the space in between you with a softness that takes his breath away. Bared heart meeting bared heart. Joelās lips are gentle and unhurried, every second savored and not a single one missed. You try to focus but it feels like youāre falling and flying all at once. Then his fingers dig into your waist a little harder, a silent plea to stay there with him, the warmth of his kiss, the firmness of his body as he pulls you closer.Ā
Your hands find their way to the back of his neck to play with the hair curled at his nape. The kiss deepens not in urgency but a shared understanding. A promise sealed in the way your bodies fit together. And then, slowly, deliberately, Joel eases back, lips lingering on yours for a heartbeat longer until thereās a slight space in between again. Your breaths mingle as he rests his forehead against yours, thumb stroking tender circles on your waist.Ā
When you open your eyes, heās already looking at you, wondering if you can feel that two worlds having converged into one, buzzing with a newness thatās as beautiful as all the words youād kept bottled inside.Ā
ā¢ā¢ā¢
It hadnāt taken much. Just a hug and a few soft kisses pressed to the underside of his jaw. When Joelās grumbling finally subsided, it made way for the soothing ripple of the river. Youād settled along the bank and stretched out a few blankets when you first arrived. An hour seemed to pass in the matter of a few seconds, laughter, conversations and all. Now the sun creeps closer and closer to the horizon up in the ombre sky.Ā
It wasnāt any fault of your own that youād asked Joel if the date could extend a little longer. Itād been a month of getting to see him in this light, open and unguarded, generous with giving those slow, easy smiles. Willing to lay down across your lap like this when you asked sweetly enough.Ā
The small mouth of a fish breaks the surface of the water as you trace along his hairline, disappearing by the time you run the pad of your finger down his nose. His lips twitch as he continues to ward off sleep. This time, thereās no stopping a soft laugh from rising up your throat. Thatās all it takes for his eyes to flutter open, blinking until theyāre able to focus on the soft upturn of your lips. No sooner do they avert to the sky, assessing the fleeting light.Ā
āWe gotta head back now,ā his voice is gruff. When he moves to sit up, you place a delicate hand on the center of his chest and he settles back down with a sigh. āCāmon, sweetheart, the sunās setting. I donāt want you out here in the dark.āĀ
Packing up and riding back to the commune meant this moment would be resigned to a memory. āA few more minutes wonāt hurt,ā you insist.Ā
Before Jackson and before you, every second was about enduring to the next. Life was an endless onwards, onwards, onwards reverberating through his veins. Slowing down was always a risk until you showed him that sometimes lifeās most worthwhile moments were in the stillness. Somedays that was easier to remember than others, but he sure did put in an effort.Ā
āI think youāre enjoying this more than I am anyways,ā you tease. The corners of his lips quirk upwards before he can stop them.Ā
You continue on like that, tracing his face, occasionally glancing up at the snow-capped peaks of the mountains. Then an animal catches your attention across the way, lean and tall with short antlers protruding from its head. You suck in a breath of pleasant surprise, and Joel startles upright thinking the worst. His shoulders relax when he sees the creature. It bends its neck down to nibble at something in the grass until deciding to gallop away.Ā
āJust a mule deer.ā He gives you a look.Ā
āI know, sorry. I get excited.ā You offer an apologetic smile and he's reminded of how beautiful you look in the light of the setting sun, features aglow. He doesnāt say anything, just soaks you in here and now. An airiness fills your chest.Ā
He stands with a groan, extending a helping hand back down to you. When youāre steady on your feet, he takes your chin in one gentle hand and tilts your head back so he can align his lips with yours. The kiss is brief, and he follows it up with a soft peck.Ā Ā
āWill you let me take you back home now?ā he questions. āEllieās gonna have our heads if weāre late for game night. Especially when sheās choosing the line up.āĀ
ā¢ā¢ā¢
No heads roll that night. Plenty of dice do, while Uno cards are slapped onto the coffee table, and Jenga blocks fall. Tommy, Maria, Dina, and your uncle Nate, eventually file out of Joelās house, leaving the three of you alone. Ellie feigns sleep on the couch as soon as itās time for cleanup, and dozes off for real as you and Joel start taking care of everything yourselves.Ā
He steps up behind you as youāre standing at the kitchen sink, snaking his arms around your middle. A curious hum rises up your throat as you lean back into him.Ā
āI think somebody cheated during Jenga tonight,ā he hushes against the shell of your ear, relishing the way you shiver at the warmth of his breath.
āI donāt know what youāre talking about.āĀ Ā
Joel noses at the back of your head. āSo you werenāt the one touchinā me during that last round?ā he asks. āScratching my back, squeezing my thigh.āĀ
āIt was innocent,ā you insist. āIt's a stressful game, I was just trying to ease your nerves. How was I supposed to know your hands would get all shaky?āĀ
A sudden chuckle shakes his chest, sending a ripple of warmth through you. āEase my nerves? We werenāt even on the same team.ā His fingers squeeze your hips in quick, gentle pulses, making you arch into him in a spell of helpless giggles. Joel evades your attempts to grab his wrists, but shows you mercy when you turn around, looking up at him through your lashes like you could do no wrong.Ā
āYouāre lucky I happen to like you an awful lot.ā He places both hands on the counter behind you, effectively caging you in.Ā
You smooth your hands up his chest, admiring the soft lines by his eyes, the handsome bump of his nose. āI know. Iām the luckiest person alive.āĀ
āNo, thatās me,ā Joel whispers.Ā
Heās certain of it.Ā
-Ā
Thank you so much for reading. Iād love to hear your thoughts, itās my favorite thing.
#joel miller x reader#joel miller x female reader#joel miller#joel miller x you#joel miller x fem reader smut#joel miller fanfic#joel miller x y/n#slow burn#joel miller fic#joel miller fanfiction#the last of us fanfiction#pedro pascal
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oh absolutely
now that percy jackson has started filming (!!!), i have an announcement:
this is the season based on the book with events based on homer's the odyssey. IF I DON'T SEE A VAST NUMBER OF PJO EDITS TO SONGS FROM THE EPIC SOUNDTRACK, WE WILL HAVE PROBLEMS!! THE OPPORTUNITY IS RIGHT THERE, ABEG TAKE IT!!
#theres also a chance the entirety of epic will be released by then too#NO BECAUSE WARRIOR OF THE MIND WITH ATHENA AND ANNABETH???#OPEN ARMS WITH TYSON AND PERCY.#Theres also a severe lack of edits using the tlt musical#All i gotta do is open this bag-thats SO PERCY#CIRCE WILL APPEAR BY THE WAY#perfect time to cast some of the epic cast members for the show (we already have an amazing circe i mean)#may i present: Wouldnt you like (Lin Manuel-Miranda Verson)
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One thing I haven't seen a lot of talk about in the fandom so far is about the financials of this season.
It took us two whole months to get a confirmation of renewal from Max, and I talked at the time that I think there was probably a lot of heated negotiations going on at the time with contracts and that's why it took as long as it did.
I think we see a huge number of indications of the compromises that were made in order for S2 to be made. One obvious one that has been talked about is being making in in NZ instead of LA, to save $.
But there's also the eight episodes instead of ten. And then the cast aspect. One downside of moving overseas was having to fly out and house the cast, not just pay day wages.
We knew immediately about Guz Khan not coming back, losing Ivan as a character. At the time I was sad but I thought it had the air of a pretty harshly practical call. If you went through the main recurring cast and said okay which character will affect the fewest things, has the least character interactions of anyone? It would be Ivan. (With the only competition being The Swede IMO, but he's Stede's crew and therefore a little more central.)
And then this season started and we got first The Swede sidelined and taken out of major scenes. And then I noticed that different members of the crew were simply absent for long stretches, like Wee John isn't around for ep 5 at all. And then Buttons takes flight.
Lucius and Pete aren't at the party for most of it. Fang isn't in the torture scene. Roach and Fang aren't in the bar. Etc. SCHEDULING IS HAPPENING.
The new characters are almost entirely played by NZ local actors, which is great, but also...cheaper.
In other words there are big signs that they did everything possible to give us a giant cast of almost everyone we love from S1, and cool new characters, in the most economical way possible.
And I'm grateful for it. I'm grateful we got S2, and it looks great, and it's well written, I'm having a blast, and we get to spend more time with this awesome cast.
But I also kinda think it needs to be said that the cost-cutting shows. That it shouldn't have been only 8 episodes, the pacing is off. That we miss every time someone from the ensemble isn't on screen.
That despite what they've put on screen looking very good, there's far less costuming budget, there's less elaborate sets, and it's a little disappointing. And it's clear it's not a lack of will or talent or vision but blatantly lack of money.
Look, streaming networks want brilliant shows that people love (that will get them to subscribe) but they very don't want to pay anyone to make them. That's like, the whole moment we're having right now.
Max puts out promos about how great it is to not have unions messing shit up in NZ. Well I have friends who are union costumers in LA and guess what union costumers did amazing last season. This season, well, I guess Stede got three whole shirts, so that's cool.
So I dunno. It's just stuff I think about. I'm not trying to be negative about the show in any way. I'm extremely happy with this season; I love it more than well, possibly any show I've ever been in fandom for.
But I see you, Max. You're cheap. You weren't that cheap when you were called HBO.
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(BAU Headcanons) If you fell asleep on them
A/N: So... guess who fell into another fandom? I blame everyone on here and their amazing fics for convincing me I need to give this show and wonderful cast a chance. I may have binged 13 seasons in like a month... oops? I'm also looking at my fav BAU bunch here but I'm open to writing for other characters from the show
Aaron Hotchner
Just like some of the other members of his team, Hotch has a hard exterior that very few people manage to crack through.Ā
If you and he are in a relationship then I can bet youāve already had to chip away at it, so youāre already pretty intimate with one another. Falling asleep on him is nothing to bat an eyelid at. If anything, he would welcome the opportunity to relax and hold you close to him. Ā
It also gives him an excuse to steal a few moments of sleep himself, not daring to move and wake you from your rest.Ā
He loves holding you close, letting himself listen to the steady beating of you heart as it gently lulls him to become calm enough to shut his eyes.Ā
However, if you werenāt in a relationship or if it happened in front of the others at the BAU then you know heād immediately react by saying something about āwork place conductā.Ā
However, heās clearly saying it for the sake of it as heād make no effort to wake you or remove you from him.Ā
In fact, he makes sure to stay still and let you rest peacefully, making sure your neck isnāt bent so you donāt wake up in pain.Ā
Heād also make sure to lay his jacket over the top of you, a clear sign that you are not to be disturbed - under pain of death.Ā
David RossiĀ
Rossi would be the first to complain if you ever fell asleep on him but itās all good natured. In fact, he only ever complains about it to you after youāve woken up and only as a joke between the two of you.
āWhat am I? Just a pillow to you? Are you trying to say my cooking has made me plump?āĀ
Itās hard to resist his charming smile, especially when he actually is rather comfortable to lean on. His expensive shirts are always soft to the touch, and the cologne youād brought him last Christmas lingers as you nestle in close.Ā
He always make you feel safe, and that is an honour greater than any heād ever been awarded.Ā
If it happened in front of the others you know heād roll his eyes and mutter about the cheek of it all. However, his smile would be enough to tell the others he didnāt mean it.Ā
āI started reading my manuscript and this is what happensā¦ guess thatās one way to leave a review.āĀ
Heād be sure to shoot daggers with his eyes at anyone else nearby who looked like they would wake you up.Ā
Heād also shoot down any possible jokes being made at your expense, his parental nature coming out in full force.Ā
Derek Morgan
This boy would be so smug if you ever fell asleep on him. Like, if you imagine a Labradorās tail wagging with one of those big dopey grins, then thatās what he is.Ā
He is keen to try and capture the moment with a picture, setting it as his phone background to prove to himself it really happened.Ā
If it happens in front of the rest of the team then you know he is going to keep reminding you and everyone else whenever he gets the chance.Ā
However, you know that for all the bragging and teasing Morgan is actually super touched by the fact you fell asleep on him and he is keen to offer you a place to lay your head whenever you look like you need to take a beat.Ā
He even has a blanket and pillow in his go-bag especially for you.Ā
āOnly the best for you, hot stuff.āĀ
He will never complain about it and - considering how much torture and pain we know this man can endure - he is more than capable of handling any cramp or pins and needles he gets as a result of you lying against him.Ā
Eventually, he would take the opportunity to try and sleep as well. With his job and his manic lifestyle, if he gets the chance to close his eyes he knows better than to waste it.Ā
Emily Prentiss
She would be shocked at first, especially if itās early-on in your relationship. She isnāt really used to public displays of affection and you sleeping with your head on her shoulder is pretty public.Ā
She would stay as still as possible, though, scared of disturbing you or ruining the moment. Sheād also probably be panicking internally, unsure what she was supposed to do.Ā
However, she soon takes a breath and relaxes. After all, you look so cute when youāre asleep and she is honoured you feel comfortable enough to relax around her like this.Ā
She doesnāt often get the chance to just sit and be peaceful so she savours the moment youāve given her.Ā
Sheād end up watching you for a while before relaxing and trying to adjust you so that youāre both comfortable.Ā
She would also take the opportunity to be affectionate, loving that she can run her hands through your hair and kiss your head without any fear of being embarrassed or rejected.Ā
After all, we know Emily has a soft centre underneath her tough, bad-ass exterior. She just needs to know she is able to express it.Ā
JJ
JJ is such a mom to everyone including you, so is over the moon the first time you fall asleep on her. She welcomes it with open arms, happy to melt into the embrace.Ā
It doesnāt matter if youāve been together long or not, or if youāre in public. Either way, it feels like a personal badge of honour to be trusted in such a way, whether or not you meant to do it.Ā
She has enough patience not to move a muscle in case she disturbs you and ruins the moment. She knows that if you fell asleep like this then you probably need the rest.Ā
JJ would totally form a blanket cocoon around you to keep you warm and toasty as you sleep, wrapping her arms around you and cradling you close.
Sheād smile the whole time, pressing kisses to the crown of your head and gently murmuring in your ear whenever you seem to stir.Ā
āSsssh, Sleepyhead. Itās ok. I got you. Go back to sleep, honey.āĀ Ā
If it was just the two of you then sheād be sure to try and move you somewhere more comfortable after a while, like the sofa or your bed.Ā
However, if you were in public then she would turn into a full mama bear and threaten anyone who came close or tried to disturb you. She has that angry mom look down to a fine art and has made grown men wither with it.
Penelope GarciaĀ
This beautiful baby angel would be so delighted if you fell asleep against her that sheād probably wake you up by accident after squealing a little too loudly.Ā
āOh, oh, sorry. Sorry! Go back to sleep. Iām staying as still as a statue, you precious angel, I promise. So you just close your eyes and let me hold you.ā
Sheād probably manage like five minutes before she moves again and wakes you up, but it was enough time for her to steal a few private photos to commemorate the moment.Ā
They will most definitely be the background on her computer the following morning, and possibly yours too.
She would also be sure to make sure she has a blanket and pillow stashed away for you if you ever felt like taking an impromptu nap again when you werenāt at home.Ā
If you worked at the BAU theyād be kept in her lair - or your private napping room, as she tells you.Ā
Theyād also be brightly coloured and super soft, chosen specifically by Penelope to make you as comfortable and as happy as possible, even whilst at the government building.Ā
āJust so you know, I gave them a spritz with this gorgeous lavender mist spray to help you knock right out the moment your pretty head hits the pillow. So, sweet dreams honeybun.āĀ
Dr Spencer Reid
Spencer is a precious boy and would be utterly baffled at first if he looked down and realised you had fallen asleep on him.Ā
He would be surprised he hadnāt noticed you drooping against him sooner, or that your breathing had slowed as you fell asleep.Ā
At first he thinks it must be a mistake, immediately trying to ease you off of him. After all, he wasnāt the most comfortable person to sleep on and people are far more likely to find his company irksome rather than soothing.Ā
However, after you start doing it more often he realises that isnāt the case.Ā
In fact, he feels rather proud that youāve got the point in your relationship where you arenāt afraid to relax around him.Ā
He also learns how not to let it over-stimulate him. It takes some time to train his mind to not think about the possible pathogens that could be passing between you or the way your hair tickles his face. Heās also able to talk to you about positions to curl up in if you ever want to sleep against him again, that he feels more relaxed in.Ā
Heād also totally be happy to tell you all about whatever his latest hyper-fixation is, knowing the sound of his voice helps you settle better than any lullaby.Ā
Masterlist
#ithebookhoarder#masterlist#thesilentmage#criminal minds#BAU#aaron hotchner x reader#aaron hotchner#spencer reid x reader#spencer reid#david rossi x reader#david rossi#derek morgan x reader#derek morgan#penelope garcia x reader#jennifer jareau x reader#emily prentiss x reader#emily prentiss#hotch x reader
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New Collaboration (Twice NSFW Smut)
ā ļø18+ ONLY - MINORS DNIā ļø
TWICE Mina Myoi x Sub!Male Reader
Tags: 4.5k words, age-gap, multiple creampies, possible breeding/impreg
While at a popular variety show, you found yourself backstage waiting for your cue. It was a chance for you to perform alongside your favorite artists and one of them was Mina from TWICE. The atmosphere was tense, a mix of adrenaline and nerves. You'd only seen her through watching other variety shows or managing to catch brief glimpses of her at awards shows. But there she was, standing amongst the other TWICE girls.
You could see the rest of them leave for the bathroom as Mina stayed behind to watch over their belongings and their cue. You decided that this was your moment to make the connection. You walked up to her, braving through your nerves and fear.
"Hey, I'm Y/N," you said, extending your hand to Mina. She looked up from her script, her eyes wide as she recognized you. She smiled warmly, shaking your hand. "Nice to meet you in person. I'm Mina. I've been following your debut for a while and I'm a huge fan of your work."
You smiled, your cheeks turning a bright red. Mina Myoi, popular idol from TWICE knows of your work? Your eyelids fluttered, slightly taken aback by her open admiration. "YāYou know about me? I'm so honoured! I'm such a big fan of you...r work with TWICE and MiSaMo!" Nice save.
Mina giggled at your obvious nervousness and the two of you began chatting. The topics ranged from the things you'd be doing on the show to what you think of the industry so far. The nerves set in as you realized how close you were to performing. You found yourself gradually moving closer to her. Mina appeared to be doing the same, her eyes locked onto yours, neither of you aware of the distance between you closing.
The sound of a bell ringing in the distance broke the trance, signaling that it was time for you to take the stage. You took a deep breath, glancing at Mina before giving her a confident nod. "Good luck," she whispered, a playful smile on her lips as the other TWICE girls returned to stand around her.
You gave her a nervous but thankful smile and sauntered off, the butterflies in your stomach fluttering wildly. As the show went on, you subtly glanced at Mina a few times, her beauty somehow shining through all eight other members. It was as if no one else existed for those very brief moments. You admired how she commanded the stage, the energy she radiated. The feeling only grew as you made your way backstage after your performances.
"You were amazing out there!" Mina congratulated, rushing over to you as soon as you were both backstage. She hugged you tightly, her scent enveloping you as she lifted you off the ground slightly. "I'm so proud of you."
You blushed, the sincerity in her eyes warming you from the inside out. As the other TWICE girls went to rest in the designated backstage room, Mina stayed with you. The two of you sat down in a secluded area and ended up chatting for hours.Ā
Your heart swelled as you struggled to contain yourself. You got to, not only talk with your allātime favourite idol, but she hugged you really nice and tight too. As the night began to wind down, you found yourselves alone, the cast and crew dispersing to prepare for their next filming. That was when the topic of age differences came up naturally.
"So, you're, what, 19?" Mina asked with a playful grin. You nodded, chuckling at the surprise on her face. "And here I thought you were a little older. You're quite mature for your age."
"TāThank you," you replied with a humble smile. "You're...?"
"The ripe age of 27," Mina said, resting her chin on her hand as she looked at you. "But I guess it's the experience that counts, right?"
"27?! No way! I could've sworn you were my age," you teased before continuing, "but yeah, you could say that." You couldn't help but let your gaze linger on her face for a while. Such smooth skin... such pretty lips... You stared at her for a considerable amount of time before snapping out. "You've been in the industry a while, and I could learn a lot from you."
Mina's eyes sparkled, and she leaned in closer. "Anything you want to know, you just have to ask." Her lips grazed your earlobe, sending shivers down your spine as she whispered, "And sometimes lessons are best learned by doing."
The closeness between the two of you was undeniable, and the air around you felt heavy with tension. You subconsciously leaned towards her as she did the same. The scent of her perfume mingled with the lingering smoky scent of the stage, creating an intoxicating mix. You could feel your heart racing, the heat in your cheeks increasing, turning them red.
Mina's hand brushed against yours, and your eyes met, locked in a heated gaze. Both your lips were inches away from one another, something in you just wanted to pounce forward and claim her in a deep and passionate makeout. The weight of the moment was suffocating, yet exhilarating. The silence stretched, and the tension built, growing thicker by the second.
Just as your chest tightened, and it felt like your heart would pound right out of your chest, the sound of voices echoed through the backstage area, snapping you both out of your trance. Mina quickly leaned back back, the grin on her face replacing the intensity that had been there just moments before.
"Guess I better get going," she said, straightening her outfit. "The girls are gonna get cranky if I leave them for too long... but you've got a bright future ahead of you. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do next."
She gave you a final warm smile before she slipped away, leaving you standing there, your mind reeling with the encounter. The memory of Mina's voice, her touch, the intensity of those stolen moments would linger, pushing you to dream and fantasize about what could be. Your admiration for your favourite idol might have just developed into a full blown crush.
Months passed, and you found yourself 'crossing paths' with Mina at various events. Crossing paths in the sense that you'd steal brief glances at her while in a massive crowd.Ā But each time, the lingering eye contact and flirtatious smiles sent your heart racing. You found yourself always glancing toward her, trying to catch a glimpse of her in between your own performances. There was something about her that drew you in, and you wondered if it was mutual.
After one of M Countdown's award shows, you found yourselves waiting backstage once again. The anticipation of the night's events, and the memories of your previous encounter, made your nerves skyrocket. Mina spotted you and walked over with a bright smile, separating herself from the rest of TWICE momentarily. Her confidence commanded the space around her.
"Oh my, you look amazing tonight," she complimented, her eyes looking you up and down before settling and on yours and never leaving. "It's been a while since we've seen each other. How have you been?"
"I've been doing pretty well," you said, feeling your cheeks heat up. "A little busy, but it's been great. How about you?"
Mina laughed softly. "Y'know, same old, same old. But I'm glad to see you doing well. You've got a lot of fans out there rooting for you."
"Likewise for you too. Hell, I'll always root for you... and TWICE... yeah."
Mina let out a sultry giggle as the two of you began chatting about various things, from the music you both enjoyed to the latest scandal in the industry. Mina's hand brushed against yours as she gestured, and a jolt shot through you, making you wish that contact would linger. You could feel the tension build between you, the air thick with unspoken desires.
"You know, we should do something together," Mina suggested, her voice soft and sultry. "A collaboration, maybe. I bet it would be amazing. Fans might like that as well, what do you think?"
"TāThat would be incredible, I'd love to," you stammered, your heart pounding wildly in your chest. Your eyes met hers, and the intensity was palpable. You could feel every nerve in your body tingling, as if electrified by her presence.
A few more comments were exchanged, small jokes shared, and the tension between the two of you grew. Mina leaned in closer, her lips brushing against your ear. "I think I'll be staying up late tonight, and the girls are gonna be out... Want to join me?"
Your breath hitched, and you could only manage a nod, your mind reeling at the possibility. The heat between you was almost unbearable, and it felt like the world had slowed down, leaving the two of you to exist in a bubble.
"Excellent, I'll see you back here once the place has cleared up a little~"
The conversation ebbed away, replaced by the chaos and noise of the afterāevent. The weight of the moment hung in the air, heavy and thick, as Mina departed with a wink and a smile.
The night continued to unfold, and you found yourself seeking her out, unable to shake the pull she had on you. Your heart raced with anticipation as you waited for the event to come to a close, dying to deepen connection with her.
The event finally came to an end, and the guests began to disperse, leaving behind the echoes of their laughter and conversations. You met with Mina at the decided spot before she led you back to the hotel she was staying at. Her hand clasped yours as you walked through the empty halls.
"I think a collaboration between us could work perfectly," Mina said as she unlocked the door to her hotel room, gesturing for you to enter. "You have quite the unique sound, and I think our voices would mesh well together."
As you crossed the threshold, the room was dimly lit, the only light filtering in from the city skyline outside. Mina closed the door behind you, the quiet of the moment hanging in the air.
"Have a seat and we could talk about it. Could I get you anything to drink?" she suggested, motioning to the couch. You shook your head as you sat down, your heart thudding in your chest.
"So... what kind of vibe are you going for?" you asked, trying to keep your mind focused on the task at hand, the desire for her still palpable.
"Hmm... How about something that showcases both our styles," Mina replied, taking a seat beside you. "Maybe, a mix of hipāhop and R&B. The lyrics could focus on breaking free from societal expectations and finding one's true self. The chorus should be catchy yet poignant, with a hardāhitting beat."
The two of you continued to discuss ideas, concepts, and possible producers for the collaboration. The conversation flowed effortlessly, your minds mingling as easily as your bodies seemed to desire. As you talked, Mina's hand crept closer to yours, her fingers brushing against yours every now and then.
"Okay! Now that that's settled, I'm really excited to get started on this," you said, the passion in your voice reflecting your feelings for the project, as well as the woman beside you.
"Me too," Mina replied, her voice low and sultry. "Let's celebrate the start of our collaboration~"
Her hand found yours and her thumb began to trace circles on the back of your hand, the contact both calming and arousing. You could feel the heat radiating from her touch as she leaned in, her lips inches from yours. Your eyes were locked on her lips... something about them looked so... delicious...Ā
"To new beginnings," she whispered before pressing her lips to yours. The kiss was soft, tender, and as it deepened, it grew more intense. Mina's hand traveled up your arm, her fingers lightly brushing against your neck.
You could feel her breasts pressing against your chest as she climbed atop you, the heat of her body igniting a fire within you. As the kiss continued, her hand slid under your shirt, tracing gentle circles on your skin. The pleasure from her touch sent shivers down your spine, and you could feel your body responding to her touch, your arousal growing with each passing moment.
"Are you ready for our next chapter?" Mina asked, her breath hot against your ear as she nibbled on your lobe.
Your body ached for more, more of this stunning older woman you've admired for so long. The beginning of this new chapter had you both on the edge, ready to embark on a journey of passion and collaboration.
Nodding, you surrendered yourself to the moment, your body eagerly responding to Mina's touch. She guided your hand to her breast, letting you feel her firmness through her top. Her nipple hardened against your touch, the silky texture of her shirt doing little to dampen the sensations.
"Mhmm, just like that," Mina moaned softly, her fingers deftly undoing the buttons of your shirt. She peeled it away, her eyes fixated on your body as she revealed it to her.
The heat between the two of you grew, and Mina's lips trailed down your neck, leaving a trail of kisses and nibbles that sent shivers through your spine. You let out a soft moan, your body arching into her touch, the need for more becoming almost unbearable.
"So responsive," Mina whispered, her voice laced with desire as she began to unbutton your pants, her nimble fingers sliding beneath the waistband.
"Godā fuck, Minaā" you let out a loud moan as her hand found you, her touch adding fuel to the fire already burning bright within you. She began to stroke you through your underwear, her thumb teasing the tip. The rhythm of her strokes increased, and you found yourself writhing beneath her touch, unable to contain your pleasure.
"Mina..." you groaned, your voice thick with arousal. "I want more..."
With a wicked smile, Mina stood up, pulling you with her. She guided you to the bed, her hand stilling on your chest as she undressed. The sight of her slowly freeing from her clothes was intoxicating, and you let out a low, appreciative moan.
"Mina... The woman that you are..." you exhaled, your voice pleading.
"Patience, my dear," she said, her voice sultry and full of promise. "I have a feeling our collaboration will be a hit."
With that, she climbed onto the bed, leaving you hanging, eager for more. The anticipation and the teasing had you on the edge, desperate for the physical expression of your newfound partnership.
Mina laid herself down on the bed, her body twisting and turning ever so slightly, making your cock visibly harder and harder each second. She seductively sat up and beckoned you with her finger, inviting you closer. You climbed onto the bed next to her, your eyes taking in the sight that is Mina Myoi.
"Come here, baby," Mina whispered, her voice a seductive purr. "Let's make some music together."
You couldn't resist, moving closer, and before long, your lips met hers once more, the kiss deepening, your tongues entwining. Mina's hand found its way to your now hard erection, gripping it firmly, her thumb gliding over the head.
"Oh, Y/N, you're such a good boy. You've been waiting for this, haven't you?" she purred, her voice a mix of lust and admiration. "I can't wait to feel you inside me."
You fumbled with your pants, quickly shedding them and your underwear. The anticipation built, and you found yourself hovering over her, your cock at the entrance of her wetness. Mina's legs wrapped around your waist, pulling you closer, her eyes never leaving yours.
"Please, I need youā Mommy Mina needs you, baby," she moaned, the vulnerability and desire in her voice sending shivers down your spine.
Slowly, you began to enter her, the tight warmth enveloping you. Mina's moans grew louder, filling the room. The age gap between the two of you seemed to melt away, replaced by the shared experience of lust and desire. Within seconds, you had bottomed her out.
"Fuckā I didn't think you'd be this big, Y/N. I can feel your cock throbbing inside me," she cried out, her nails digging into your back. "Harder!"
You complied, beginning to thrust into her, the rhythm growing more intense as you both found your pace. You could feel the slick wetness enveloping you, the pleasure building with each movement. Mina's moans grew louder, her head thrown back, her body arching to meet your thrusts.
"Oh, Y/N, baby, you feel so good," Mina moaned, her voice thick with lust. "You're so hard... So deep... Ravage my pussy, baby~"
Her hands found your chest, fingers tracing circles, eliciting a shiver from your spine. She began to rock her hips, her movements rough and desperate. But after a while, she made you slow down. It was as if she was savoring the sensation, prolonging the inevitable.
"Mina, you feel amazing," you groaned, your voice rough with desire. "IāI need more of you."
Mina's movements grew more urgent, her hips slamming back against yours. You could feel your own body responding, the pleasure building once more.
"God, Y/N, I'm close... Don't stop, Y/N," she urged, her voice breathless. "Give it to me."
Mina's body shuddered against yours, the intensity building between you both. Her movements grew more frenzied, her moans more desperate. You could feel the pressure inside you, the need to release, to fill her, to claim her as your own.
"Y/Nā gnnnngh... Y/N... oh, fuck... I'm so close," Mina cried out, her voice thick with lust.
You could feel her pussy tightening around you, squeezing every inch of your length, spurring you on, driving you closer to the edge. The room filled with the sounds of your bodies connecting, the wet slap of skin against skin, the cries of pleasure.
"Mina, I can't hold back," you groaned, your voice thick with desire.
Mina's nails dug into your back, her body arching, inviting you to take her to the precipice.
"Y/N, give it to me, fill me up," she urged, her voice thick with need.
With a final, powerful thrust, you let go, your release spilling into her, the pleasure washing over you like a tidal wave. Mina's body followed, her own climax hitting her like a freight train, her body convulsing, her release coating your length.
"Oh, Y/N, yes, I'm cummingā Y/N! FUCK!" she cried out, her body arching, her nails digging into your back some more. "Fuck, yes, that feels so good."
The two of you clung to each other, your bodies trembling, the waves of pleasure crashing over you. Mina's breathing grew heavy, her body still quivering from the intensity of her orgasm.
"That was... wow," she panted, her voice thick with satisfaction.
You found yourself wrapped in her embrace, the two of you still joined, the sweat glistening on both your bodies. Mina's hand found your cheek, her thumb brushing away a droplet of sweat.
"Y/N... that was amazing," she breathed, her chest heaving as she caught her breath. "...but I need more. Mommy Mina needs more~"
Before you could even catch your breath, Mina rolled you onto your back, her body straddling yours. She began to grind her hips against you, her wetness coating your stillāhard cock. The sight of her, the feeling of her body against yours, sent shivers down your spine.
"I want to feel you all night," Mina purred, her voice dripping with lust. "You're going to breed me, baby. Make me a real mommy, alright?"
Her words sent an electric jolt through you, the idea of impregnating this woman, this idol, almost too much to bear. Mina positioned herself above you, her wetness enveloping your cock as she sank down onto you.
"You're so big for me, baby... I'm so full," she moaned, her breasts swaying above you as she began to ride you leisurely, her eyes never leaving yours.
"Minaā" you gasped, your voice thick with desire. "Please, don't stopā"
Mina's hips began to move faster, her moans growing louder, filling the room. You could feel the pleasure building once more, the thrill of being at her mercy intoxicating.
"Mina, I'm so close... Fuckā you're so tight," you warned, your body tensing with anticipation.
"Cum for me, Y/N," she ordered, her voice a mix of desire and command. "Give it to me. Fill me to the brim."
You couldn't resist, the order sending you over the edge. Your hips bucked against her, the pleasure cascading through you as you came once more, filling her even more deeply than before.
"MāMINA~!" you cried out, your body trembling. As you both came down from the high, Mina's body shuddered, releasing her own pleasure in waves. Her juices coated your cock, the warmth and tightness of her pussy as she came almost overwhelming. You could feel her squeezing you, milking your cock as she rode out her orgasm.
"Oh god, you're incredible..." Mina panted, her eyes locked with yours, her body still trembling from the aftershocks of her climax.
"Mina... I... mmf..." you whispered, your own breath coming in ragged pants.
But before you could fully recover, Mina's hand found your softening cock, stroking you gently until it began to harden once more. Her eyes were filled with lust, the desire for more evident in every line of her body.
"You're not done with me yet, are you?" she purred, the promise of more in her voice.
You exhaustedly shook your head, your cock returning to its hardened stature. Mina took the lead, turning over, her body arching, inviting you to take her from behind.
"Get on your knees, baby," she commanded, her voice a mix of lust and desire. "Fuck me like the breeding stallion you are."
You obeyed, positioning yourself behind her, your cock meeting her wet entrance once more. Mina's nails dug into the sheets as you began to thrust into her from behind, the new angle setting off a fresh wave of pleasure.
"Oh god, yessss~ Y/N, you feel so good... fuck me... impregnate me," Mina moaned, her voice thick with lust.
Her words sent shivers down your spine, the taboo nature of the idea driving you wild. The thought of breeding Mina, this stunning woman, filled you with a primal drive.
"Mina, I'm going to cum againā" you warned, your voice thick with pleasure as you began to thrust harder, faster.
Mina's moans grew louder, more desperate. "Cum inside me, baby. Anhh... Fill mommy up~"
You didn't need any further encouragement. Your thrusts grew more frenzied, the pleasure building once more. The room was filled with the sounds of your bodies connecting, the wet slap of skin against skin, and the cries of pleasure.
"Oh, god, Minaā!" you cried out, your body trembling as you poured yourself into her once more.
As your release filled her, Mina's body shuddered, her own pleasure peaking, the waves of orgasm washing over her.
"Oh, Y/N, baby, yes... Y/N, you're going to make me a mommy, aren't you? I can feel it in every thrust. I'm all yours, baby~ Take me." she cried out, her body arching as she came.
"You're mine," she whispered, her body still straddling yours. "And I'm yours..."
"But I want more," she continued, her voice thick with lust. "I'm not done with you yet, Y/N."
Mina disentangled herself from your embrace, her eyes filled with desire as she shifted to straddle you, sitting on your lap. Her hands roamed over your chest, her lips finding yours in a passionate kiss. You could taste the lingering sweetness of their previous lovemaking, sending shivers down your spine.
"I want you inside me again, Y/N," Mina breathed, her voice heavy with lust.
You were so obviously drained and tired... But Mina Myoi is asking YOU for a godāknowsāwhat round... You'd be insane to turn that down... You helped her lower herself back onto your cock, the familiar warmth enveloping you as she took you in. This time, Mina chose a more sensual pace, rocking her hips in a slow, deliberate rhythm. Her breasts swayed with each movement, her nipples hard as they brushed against your chest.
"Oh, Y/N, you feel so goodā Just like thatā" she moaned, her voice thick with desire. "Your cock is perfect."
Mina leaned forward, trailing kisses along your jawline, her lips finding your earlobe, whispering sweet nothings in your ear. The sensation only served to heighten the pleasure of her movements.
"I want to feel you deep inside me, Y/N. Breed me like the wild animal you are. Bottom. Me. Out."
The words sent a jolt through you, the primal desire to claim her as your own pulsing through your veins. You reached up, grabbing Mina's hips, helping you both find a faster, more vigorous pace.
"Mina, I... I'm getting close again," you warned, your breath coming in ragged pants.
Mina's moans grew louder, her body arching with each thrust. "Don't stop, Y/N. Fill me up. Knock me up, baby~"
You couldn't hold back any longer. Your thrusts grew more urgent, the pleasure building once more. Mina's nails dug into your chest as her own climax approached.
"Oh, god, Y/N, I'm... I'm cummingā I'M CUMMING~!" she cried out, her body tensing, her pussy tightening around you as her release washed over her.
You couldn't hold back any longer. With a final, powerful thrust, you bottomed her out once more as you proceeded to cum inside her, the sensation of flooding her to the brim spurring you on.
"Oh fuckā Minaā!" you cried out, your body trembling.
The two of you clung to each other, riding out the aftershocks of your pleasure. Mina collapsed against your chest as you flopped backwards onto the bed. Her breathing was heavy, her body still quivering from the intensity of her orgasm.
"Let's just lay here, Y/N," she whispered, her hand reaching up to caress your cheek. "Let's just enjoy each other for now... You made Mommy Mina very happy today..."
You wrapped your arms around her, pulling her into a hot, passionate makeout, savoring the taste of each other's lips.
As the two of you lay entwined, sweat glistening on your bodies, your hearts beating in unison. The bedroom was filled with the sounds of your breathing, the aftermath of your passionate encounter settling around you. And in that moment, there was nothing but the two of you, basking in the afterglow of your shared passion.
[Let me know if you want a part two or if you want me to make this a long running story. And let me know who else you'd want to see a fic about.]
[ New Collaboration Pt. 1 ā See Pt. 2 ]
#mina x male reader#mina smut#kpop smut#twice smut#twice x male reader#male reader#x male reader#male reader insert#male! reader#male!reader#x male!reader#male reader smut#x male smut#idol x male reader#female idol smut
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Marvel and Wonder Woman
@actuel-idiot is a major reason Iām writing this! They gave me the idea so the credit goes to them.
Diana has a special relationship with Captain Marvel. Theyāre family. Technically. But theyāre family! The man has no problem treating her like one of his own, and itās not like Diana has any of her other family in manās world so sheāll take what she can get. The only downside is that no one knows his actual identity, including Diana. Half the people in the JL donāt even believe he has one, but when Diana asked, he confirmed he did. She hoped that one day he would share his identity with her, but for the meantime, sheād just continue to enjoy their bond.
Like, for example, Diana talks to Marvel whenever she misses Themyscira. The very first time she started missing her home was about a few weeks after the JL formed. (Marvelās a founding member in this post)
WW: āCaptain, do you ever miss home?ā
Marvel: āHm? I guess so?ā *confused*
WW: āYou guess so? Do you not miss Olympus? I assume thatās where you grew up.ā
Marvel: āOh, no. Iāve never been to Olympus. If thatās what you mean by home. It isnāt.ā
WW: āThen where is your home?ā
Marvel: āWell, I havenāt had a home in a long time. So, I canāt particularly say. All I know is that I canāt go back, and as the years go by, I hate to say it but I barely remember it.ā He only knows what his dad looks like due to his Marvel form, and he only remembers his mom due to Maryās form. As for what they were like? A lot of the memories are fuzzy. āSo, unfortunatelyā¦ there isnāt really much to miss.ā
WW: āDo you think Iāll forget about Themyscira?ā
Marvel: āI donāt know. But thatās why itās important to make a home wherever you go. That, and if you really donāt wanna forget, you can always try and find people who used to call your home theirs.ā *shrugs*
WW: āI donāt believe there are any other Amazonians and manās world.ā
Marvel: āWellā¦ not technically.ā *little smile* āYou know, a few thousand years ago I was an Amazonian at some point.ā
WW: āWhatā¦?ā
Marvel: āShocking. I know.ā *little laugh*
WW: āBut youāre a man?ā *dumbfounded expression*
Marvel: āYeah, I know, but I wasnāt always. If you want, I could tell you some stuff about the first island.ā
WW: āThe first Themyscira? You were alive back then?ā
Marvel: āYup.ā
WW: *stares for a bit* āIādā¦ Iād like that a lot. Please share.ā
The two spend the rest of the evening talking about all the lore about Themyscira, Dianaās mother, Dianaās aunts, the culture back then, the dialects, and so on.
Then, there was the incident with Circe. She had cast a spell on Diana, turning her into a child. After it had happened, she left and soon a mini Diana was swarmed by the leaguers.
Marvel: āWait, so she still knows who we all are, sheās just a little kid?ā
Batman: *nods head* āCorrect.ā
WW: *looking around as the other leaguers fawn over her cause sheās adorable*
Batman: āIt also altered her mindset, making her more childish.ā
WW: *spots Marvel and her eyes sparkle* āBig brother!ā *runs over to Marvel and crashes into his legs hugging them*
Marvel: āWoah!ā *slightly startled at her running over* āWow, Diana, youāre still so strong.ā *takes on the tone he uses to talk to Darla (aka big brother/father tone) as he leans down to pick her up*
WW: *nods head* āYeah!ā
Marvel: *moves to carry her like sheās his own daughter*
The two proceed to talk about whatever as the other JL members coo at the two looking like father and daughter. Same black hair and blue eyes. Also, Zeus was gnawing at the bars of his metaphorical cage when he saw this. His daughter was too precious. As soon as the other leaguers blinked, he took little Diana and they proceeded to go fight Mr.Mind together. They then went for ice cream afterwords. Now, theyāre eating their respective cones while sitting on the edge of a building.
Marvel: āYou did such a good job, Diana. That one punch at that one robot that sent it flying into three other ones was amazing.ā *smiles and ruffles Dianaās hair*
WW: *giggles and licks ice cream* āThanks, dad.ā
Marvel: *pauses mid bite of ice cream* (Yes, Iām making Billy bite his ice cream)
WW: *doesnāt even realize she said that*
Zeus: āYouā¦ YOU STOLE MY DAUGHTER?!ā *thunderclouds in the distance*
Billy proceeded to have to make many offerings to Zeus to make him calm down after the incident. For a week straight, he kept getting little shocks whenever he touched stuff.
#billy batson#captain marvel dc#dc captain marvel#shazam#fawcett#fawcett city#fawcett comics#diana prince#wonder woman
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I have a challengeā¦ A test of skillsā¦ EPIC!Athena Draw This In Your Style, as promisedšāāļø
Use #AthenaDTIYSmircsy so I can see it if anyone decides to draw this beast of a drawing LMAO
NO deadline (and doesnāt need to be the exact same pose)
And something elseā¦
EPIC: The Musical is the example of what people are capable of if they work together with respect, understanding, love and support. With these aspects people are able to build the world Athena wonders about if it would be possible to ever exist.
The fact that one personās dream, Jorgeās, could grow and keep blooming is majestic and mind-blowing, and the project had great impact on many many many people already, including me too.
Throughout the three years Iāve been following the amazing process and releases, EPIC gave me plenty of memories, knowledge, better understanding of others and myself, and a direction where to take my future thanks to this rare opportunity to work on official animatics for songs, which I am so deeply grateful that there are no words for it in any languages. This musical truly pulled me out of a deep, dark pitā¦
But thatās not all. Thanks to EPIC I got to know many incredible people, starting from some of the cast members, to other composers, to other artists, to people who like the kind of art I do, to true friends. Every second with these people is a bliss and pleasure.(I wish I could tag you all but you are so freaking manyšš«¶)
Again, Iām just grateful we can experience this together! See you in future projects, since with the Ithaca Saga released, the journey truly begins nowā¦
#AthenaDTIYSmircsy#epic the musical#epic the musical fanart#athena#draw this in your style#greek mythology#the odyssey#artist on tumblr#tagamemnon
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