#also note to self. please do not Lie to yourself and say 'just a little screenshot redraw ;)'

[breadball]

I'm a simple man, you say 'Ladyhawke AU' and I come running like a bat out of hell.

[gyaruhana]

please do one where Thanos starts off as your unlikely ally in the games, protecting you from danger and helping you survive. Over time, his protectiveness becomes obsessive, and he begins eliminating anyone he sees as a threat to keeping you by his side even as you start to notice his unsettling behavior you can’t escape his grasp🙏

Thanos/Choi Su-Bong - yandere bf

Synopsis: In an attempt to escape from Thanos, you join a game promising money that will help you escape him. Unfortunately, he also seemed to have joined the game.

A/N: I may have combined this with two other requests bc they were all so similar so.. i hope thats okay !!

Warning: yandere thanos, choking

If you had told your younger self you’d be in a game of death with 45.6 billion won up for grabs, you wouldn’t believe it. And yet, it’s true. After the tragedy that was Red Light, Green Light where many people met a rather unfortunate fate, you realized it’d be in your best interest to find someone you can trust and form an alliance with them.

Unfortunately for you, your boyfriend, Thanos, happened to also be a part of the games and had been watching you from a distance since he spotted you in the first game. You had originally wanted to get away from him because he was nothing but toxic though now it seems Thanos was one step ahead of you. That, or you just had terrible luck and Thanos decided to come here on his own accord. 

You didn't have time to think about it though because he suddenly got up and left his little group behind to make his way straight to you. He didn't seem happy at all. Perhaps it was because the last conversation you two had was an argument that was left off on a bad note. 

“Where have you been? Were you avoiding me? That makes me really fucking mad, you know,” he says as he grabs your wrist so you can't just walk away from him. Not like there was anywhere to go now. You were stuck with him here. 

“I was just taking some time for myself,” you respond defensively. You really just wanted to get away from him which is why you were here in the first place. Your original plan was to win some money and then disappear so you'd never have to deal with Thanos and his crazy behavior again. It was suffocating to be near him.

“Time for yourself? Don't fucking lie to me,” he says as he brings you closer to him. Nothing about him was gentle. Not his touches, or his kisses, or anything. “Well, you've had your time. You're not leaving my side now,” he continues as he looks down at you with a glare. He wasn't leaving any room for you to defy him. In his eyes, you belonged to him. You were his property and that meant you couldn't go rogue and do what you want. 

“You don't get a say in that,” you say as you lean back slightly to try to create some distance between the two of you. He lets out a bitter laugh before grabbing the back of your head, entangling his fingers in your hair, and forcing you closer. “Yes, I do. In case you forgot, you're stuck in a death game with me. Do you really think anyone else will help you? Nobody else here gives a fuck about you. The moment they get the chance, they'll let a bullet go through your head,” he says as he looks down at you with a slightly crazed look. 

You'd like to make a counter point but he’s not exactly wrong. A lot of the people here didn't seem to be trustworthy. Not like Thanos was any better but he probably wouldn't purposely kill you if you didn't piss him off, right? As much as you didn't want to, you realized you didn't have much choice. Unless you want to make an enemy right after the first game, Thanos was your only hope of surviving the rest of the games.

“That's better. Just keep your pretty lips shut and let me do the talking,” Thanos spoke with a slight smirk. You didn't respond to that knowing that you'd likely make some sarcastic quip that would piss him off if you did. You didn't have a choice this time. You couldn't run away to another country. You had to give in just this once.

You'd soon come to regret that decision. 

Somehow, Thanos had only gotten worse. He was always right next to you, no matter what. Either his hand would be over your shoulder or he'd have a tight grip on your waist. When it was lights out, he'd force you to sleep in the same bed as him. He'd kiss you all the time too but it was always rough with teeth clashing against each other and his tongue shoved down your throat.

You didn't notice it got worse until it was far too late. 

The moment of realization was during the third game. The game was called ‘mingle’ and it was simple enough. A number would be called out and you'd have 30 seconds to form a group of that number before getting inside one of the fifty rooms. 

Everyone stood on a circular platform in the center of the room and, per usual, Thanos had his arm over your shoulder, keeping you close to him as he spoke to his other stupid friend. The platform began to spin slowly as a childish song played. When the platform came to a sudden stop and a number was called out you formed a group and ran into a room. 

It was all going fine as you planned strategic moves and managed to keep on surviving. At least, it was going well. Until the last round when the number 2 was called. 

Thanos had immediately taken your wrist and dragged you towards a room, leaving behind his idiot friend without a second thought. However, the room was quickly stolen by two other players. You thought Thanos would just go to the next room over but that was not what happened.

Instead he pushed open the door and immediately grabbed one of the guys by their hair. He didn't think twice before he forced him out of the room. The other guy made an attempt to help but Thanos slammed him against the wall, his hand going around his throat as he choked him. The look in his eyes was far more scary than you remember. You could hardly process what was happening before the guy was punched in the face and pushed out of the room. 

Thanos pulled you in just before the door closed and locked. The sound of gunshots rang out soon after as Thanos huffed in annoyance. He looked guilt free despite the fact he was very much responsible for the death of two people. Actually, now that you really thought about it, he had killed other people in the previous games too.

Fuck. You were beginning to regret your choice of becoming his ally. You'd have much rather found someone else who could protect you from him because he was clearly fucking crazy. Crazier than he used to be. You thought he was just a manipulative, toxic bastard. You didn't think he'd be truly capable of murder. 

“Fucking dickheads,” Thanos mumbles under his breath with annoyance before glancing at your face. The corner of his lips quirked up when he noticed your expression and he wandered in front of you. “What? Something wrong?” He spoke though he already knew exactly what you were thinking.

“You killed those people,” you said as you looked up at him with a combination of fear and disbelief. He laughed in response before reaching a hand up and grabbing your face. “For you, baby. I fucking killed them for you,” he said as he looked down at you with a smirk. He found your expression such a turn-on really. The idea you were afraid of him meant you'd submit to him and that's all he wanted.

“You're fucking crazy.. crazier than I thought,” you spoke as you tried to step back and create some distance between the two of you. In response, he slammed you against the wall and got very close to you. 

“You're only just realizing this? You don't realize when I snapped the ankle of that bastard who looked at you so he'd lose? You didn't realize when our ‘friend’ and I returned but he had a bleeding nose?” He spoke as he got into your face with a dangerous grin. Well, when he said it like that, it became abundantly clear he had been killing and hurting people left and right since day one and all for you. You just had been too caught up in his behavior towards you that you didn't notice how he acted with others.

“Mm. Fuck, I love that look on your face. You're so afraid. Good. Because you're going to learn that you're mine forever, yeah?” He spoke as he brought a hand to your throat and squeezed it tightly. He let out a laugh as he choked you like it was the funniest thing in the world before slamming his lips to yours in a rough kiss. 

It was then you realized that, no matter how hard you tried to escape, you were his now - you always have been - and you will never taste freedom on your tongue again.

[rekishiteki]

Ardent Affection

Summary: You just really love Jing Yuan

Words: Around 1.5k

Warnings: Fluff the whole way through; reader is not described in any way and implied to be a long life species; reader and jing yuan are very clingy and a little possessive; jing yuan decided to be cheeky so this ended up kind of suggestive at the end

Notes: I wrote this for meee!!!!! It's self indulgent!! It's what I want to do with jing yuan!!! It's been months and I'm still so down bad for him. I'm so in love with him it's making me ill!!!! Done trying to edit this so take it before I explode from the yearning

This is also an offering to his rerun banner. I need my beautiful husband so please let me win my next 50/50 and his lightcone 👉👈

You're relaxing with Jing Yuan in his gardens. He's lying on his side with a hand propping his head up. His eyes are closed and he looks content to be here sunning himself. You're sitting with your back resting against his middle. His other hand is placed on your arm and you can feel the rise and fall of his chest. It's comforting. You let out a content sigh, basking in the serenity of the moment. Your thoughts drift to Jing Yuan as they tend to do, your gaze drifting along with it. You examine him and his beautiful features, heart tightening with the love you feel for him.

"I wish I was as old as you." The words come out of your mouth impulsively, the barely formed thoughts surprising you.

Jing Yuan's eyes open. He looks curious. A moment passes before he responds. "How come?"

You purse your lips before turning away to think. Knowing this Jing Yuan simply lets the hand on your arm start gently stroking you. He'll patiently wait for your answer. He always does.

After a while you turn your body to face him. One hand is supporting you on the ground while you rest the other on his side. "Because," you pause and squeeze the hand you have on him. You're always nervous to voice the feelings you harbor deep within. But in the end you can't help being an open book for him. He makes it so easy to do so. "Because maybe I could have known you sooner. We could've had more time together. And... you wouldn't have had to be alone for centuries."

He's silent as he takes in your words, eyes never leaving you. Then an amused huff escapes him as he brings his free hand to cup your face. The smile Jing Yuan's giving you drives you insane, the one where he looks so utterly in love with you that it constricts your heart to the point it feels like it's going to burst from the overwhelming affection you have for him. Those feelings are where this thought originated from. You love him so much it makes you greedy. Greedy for him. You want his everything and you want to give him everything in turn. You hate that you've missed so much of his life. You want all of him including the past you can't have. To make him irrevocably yours, and you his.

Jing Yuan draws you closer, his thumb lovingly caressing your cheek. It brings your attention back to him. You wonder how much of your thought process he's aware of. Your noses are almost touching now. He's smiling as he speaks. "I have you now."

It takes a moment to find your voice as you find yourself lost in his eyes. "Is that enough?"

He's staring at you like he wants to get lost in yours too. "More than enough. We have our whole future ahead of us, don't we?"

Something inside of you snaps. The way he says it, like it's obvious the two of you will always be together. For a long time. It makes you delirious. Delirious with love. And you need to act on it or you really will burst. So you surge forward to kiss him. And he must have been expecting it because he's already turning on his back and taking you with him. The hand on your cheek moves to the back of your head to press you closer. Your own hands are gripping him tightly. His other hand now on your waist squeezes in response. And so the two of you lie there, luxuriating in each other's sweet kisses. You want to kiss him forever but the need to breathe wins out. You break away with a sigh. Jing Yuan's eyes gleam with mirth as he watches you and you feel as if your breath's been stolen again.

You wonder if you should say something but the only thing you're capable of coming up with is a flurry of I love you's. Jing Yuan seems to know what's rattling in your head for his gaze softens. He brings a hand up to your face again but this time you lean into it and grab it. He chuckles. "You're always so sweet for me," he says, looking so incredibly fond of you.

You hum in acknowledgement. "I love you," you mewl. You love Jing Yuan so much, how could you not want to be so sweet and good for him? He's gone through so much yet still remains so good and kind hearted without ever expecting anything in return. But you want to return it. You want to give him the love he lives by and fill his life with joy. This is the second origin of your thoughts. If you knew him longer you could've started making him the happiest man on the Luofu sooner.

"I love you, too. Very much." He says it like it's a secret just for you, all while looking horribly smitten. It sends your heart soaring. You smile at him and there's no doubt it's just as smitten as his.

Jing Yuan stills and you don't have any time to react as he's the one surging forward to kiss you this time. However this kiss is different. It's searing and tantalizing. You feel your world tilt as Jing Yuan turns to settle over you trapping you under him. His lips part briefly and then give a chaste peck before pulling away to grin at you. It's a playful grin, almost smug. He tilts his head to the side almost as if he's challenging you.

You're wide eyed as you take a moment to recover. Then you laugh and shake your head, smiling all the while. "You're such a scoundrel."

"Only for you." You can tell how much he's enjoying this from the delightful smirk he's wearing.

"Yes, yes, you're my scoundrel." You reach up to pat his head. There's a small hum as his eyes close momentarily in pleasure.

"Do you regret being loved by a 'scoundrel'?" The amusement is clearly written on his face. It's evident he knows what the only answer is.

You scoff. Fleetingly you wonder how to continue but Jing Yuan's assurance in your love for each other always makes you want to be sincere. So you smile and answer, "No. I could never."

A quiet moment passes where Jing Yuan simply returns your smile before he's leaning down to press a loving kiss to your forehead. "Good. I'm afraid there's no escaping from me now." Suddenly, you're very aware of the hands that grip your waist a little tighter and how you're effectively pinned beneath him. It's like he's saying you're his and the thought sends a thrill through you. You're in the palm of his hands now and that's your favorite place to be.

You bring up your arms to wrap them around his neck. You easily pull him closer to you. The two of you stare at each other as the silence simmers with a gentle heat. It's broken—but not gone—when you quietly tell him, "I wouldn't have it any other way. Because you can't escape from me either."

Jing Yuan practically lights up at that. He grins, pleased. "I'm all yours." You think Jing Yuan likes to enable your possessiveness. Something about it seems to fill him with satisfaction. Maybe it's knowing that someone could feel so ardently for him. That somehow you've chosen to love him and never rescind it. Or at least that's how you feel about him and his possession of you. It does make you greedy. He's greedy. He'll take whatever you give him and return it tenfold. You two are lovesick and doomed to never recover.

The thought is tickling. You laugh. There's no need for words so you simply lean forward to kiss him. He meets you halfway. You can't tell who started it but it doesn't matter. Each one speaks of the love you hold for the other.

Jing Yuan pulls away with a nip to your bottom lip. Your breath hitches. Both from the action and the way he's now looking at you. He wants to proposition you. You know he will. And he knows you'll agree. He'll be so nice and sweet as he asks you it'll leave you swooning. You both know this and yet it never gets any less exhilarating.

You can feel the anticipation grow within you as you watch him draw closer. Jing Yuan rests his forehead against yours. He's smiling. The desire in his beautiful golden eyes holds you captive. One of his hands is lightly trailing down your arm to grab your hand. He interlaces his fingers with yours. The two of you remain like that for a moment to take each other in. Finally Jing Yuan says to you, "My dear," and it's spine tingling the way he calls to you so reverently. "Allow me to express my love for you in other ways. Let me show you how good I can be for you, hm?"

His words send a delightful shiver through you. "Please, Jing Yuan," you answer him but it's more of a plead. He really is so good to you. Whatever he gives you, you also want to return tenfold. Jing Yuan gives you one last fond smile before he's up and carrying you to your shared bed. The love you have for him is bubbling up again and threatening to overflow. You also want to express it in other ways. To tether him with sweet adoration and endless devotion like he readily does to you. It's a fulfilling game of give and take neither of you want to end.

[kanmom51]

Missing Jikook today

Not that I don't miss them every single day, but just saying...

@wonsummernight Miss your edits!!!!!! I know there isn't any new Jikook content just yet, but if there was a time we were in dire need for some heart wrenching Jikook edits, this is it!!!

Basically, this is me telling you "PLEASE COME BACK". 💜💜

So, I came today to cry a little, you know commiserating together with others takes the edge off a bit (note to self: keep telling yourself that, and you might start believing it too...), but also to remind y'all that SM is crap, a viper pit, a cec pool, where all the miserably unhappy ignorant assholes tend to flock to (this is about the assholes that have turned sm into such a place), either to create drama that will get them some much needed attention they aren't getting elsewhere, or to create a parallel universe where their dreams and wants come true, even if they have zero standing in reality. Oh, and I forgot those that are there to make some hard cash, by all means.

And why am I mentioning all of this, you may ask?

Well, because for some reason my hopes and dreams for a fandom cleanse are being shattered as we speak.

As you may already know, I've taken a step back lately. mainly distancing myself from SM, as it's been going downhill for ages now, but has become an even uglier place to visit in the past few months, I'd say ever since it's been known that JK and JM are enlisting TOGETHER and will be serving TOGETHER, basically being in each other's close vicinity 24/7 for 18 months (even if not sharing exact same duties within the unit) and spending off time together . And to clarify once again: Same unit, same posting (base), different duties within the unit.

You'd think that 3 months in, and after the initial shock, reality and truth would set in (even with the most delusional) that these two young men CHOSE to enlist together (free choice and steps taken by both of them to achieve this). And once again me reminding they are the only ones in the group to decide they want to do this and the only idols to ever do so.

But no. Who am I kidding? Probably wishful thinking on my part. You know, that these people will either wake up, smell the roses and just cope with reality, or plain and simply piss off (that's probably me being delusional at this point).

Point being, it's gotten even worse. Like who would have believed that would happen? Yeah, probably should have seen it coming though. When you have cult behavior, when you have those that profit off it (monetarily or otherwise), I should have known it would go this way. The need to dive even deeper into the filth of this earth, to create even dumber narratives, to, of course, spew even more hate towards either of them (depending what delusional team you are on).

Should have seen it all coming.

Sadly, instead of just leaving, tail between their legs, they are doubling down on their utterly delusional beliefs regarding these young men. Not without pain, I may add. Pain, that a small part of me, someone that tries very hard to be nice and good and positive, is now relishing (I lie... not that mall of a part after all). Their twists and turns, their made up shit to compensate for whatever shit JK, JM or Tae are throwing their way... kind of priceless. I mean, if they aren't going anywhere, should we not at least enjoy their demise?

Does that make me a bad person?

Honestly, I don't think so.

And Jikook being away from most of this, lighting the fire and walking away leaving their haters behind to burn, was a nice touch.

Now we just sit here silently wait for our little travel show...

💜💜

[koolades-world]

Are you okay with writing about the brothers with an MC who hates herself?

hi! yes, of course, no worries

please enjoy :)

Mc who hates themselves

Lucifer

wants to help you channel the energy in a different way

he won't lie, he could use a nice way to channel his negativity too

so together you try out many hobbies and do all sorts of fun things together to create lasting memories

the entire time, he's by your side and it's his way of letting you know he cares

Mammon

he knows that feeling too

when he sees you being negative about yourself, he drops the act and actually talks to you

he lets you know every time that he loves you, no matter the situation you're in even if it might embarrass him or something like that

it's exactly what he would've wanted someone to do for him

Levi

it's pretty obvious he doesn't really like himself from his self-deprecating comments

but the minute he hears you saying things like that about yourself, he's quick to tell you everything he loves about you

he's kind of bad about comforting, but he understands the feeling and tries his best to articulate how much you really matter to him

he can't be like his brothers even if he tried, but he shows you he cares in his own way

Satan

tries to make you day better in little ways, like leaving cute love notes for you

he has a jar full of small papers with everything he loves about you and has you pull from it every time you think something negative about yourself

somehow always has your favorite candy ready

everything he does it for you <3

Asmo

constantly reinforces you with positivity

he always take you out shopping and such to make you feel cute

is always by your side and will fight someone for you

just a big sweetheart and wants you to know your worth so he always tries to show you

Beel

lots of big, bear hugs

he can't understand how you might hate yourself because he loves you so much

if he could, he'd give you the world and more

instead, he just has to settle to give you everything you love in his power, and expect literally everything

Belphie

to an extent, he also understands your thoughts

he doesn't want you to become more like him so he makes an effort to show you how much he cares

he knows he isn't his brothers but that's ok

he always makes sure he lets you know he loves you since sometimes he feels like he doesn't say it enough

[lovelypham]

EYES DON'T LIE

ʬʬ prompt:where you were invited to your best friend's birthday party only to realize how jealous you'd get when seeing him with others girls,little did you know he felt the same way about you ✎wc:458 ✩⡱pairing:non-idol!bestfriend!jake X fem!reader ˳೫˚∗warnings: jealousy,fluff,kissing,confessing, mildly suggestive

╰┈➤song recommendation:Eyes don't lie-Isabel LaRosa ✩⡱

╰┈➤

As you watched Jake,your best friend for more than 5 years who was also coincidentally your crush for the past 6 months,effortlessly indulge in yet another conversation with a girl at the bar, a sigh escaped your lips Despite knowing it was his own party and you didn't have any excuse to limit him from talking to girls,a feeling of jealousy tugged at your heart strings.

hesitantly agreeing to come after Jake quite literally begged you, you found yourself tucked away in a corner, sipping your probably ninth drink of the night,while shooting daggers in his direction. Laughter and music filled the air, and while everyone was having a good time you weren't.

When another girl got a bit too comfy with Jake, you decided to escape to the peace the unoccupied pool outside provided. The summer breeze messed up your hair, and the alcohol in your system blurred your thoughts as you stared into the night sky.

✦⋆𓆩✧𓆪⋆✦

Suddenly, Jake showed up beside you, his presence bringing you both comfort and nervousness. "hey__" he murmured, his voice low while saying your name. "you seem a little distant. everything okay?"

You hesitated, caught off guard by the way he knew you so well "yeah, I'm fine," you replied, trying to sound nonchalant"I just needed to get some air I felt suffocated inside"you replied in an awkward tone

Jake leaned in closer, his eyes searching yours in way that made your heart beats race. "Are you sure?" he whispered, his breath warm against your freezing skin.

You swallowed a lump, feeling exposed under his gaze. "honestly, I'm just... feeling a little sick," your voice carrying uncertainty

A smirk tugged at the corners of Jake's lips as he leaned even closer, his lips touching your earlobe. "so you're not jealous,huh?" he murmured, his voice sending shivers down your spine you gasped and then quickly denied his allegations saying "what are you talking about jake?" . he said one thing "Eyes don't lie,baby"

Your breath hitched as Jake's words sent a jolt of electricity through you. Before you could respond, he closed the distance between you, his lips capturing yours in a heartwarming kiss. It felt like the world around you faded away, leaving only the burn of his touch and the pounding of your heart

✦⋆𓆩✧𓆪⋆✦

After you pulled away, both of you breathless he sighed and said"i was only talking to so many girls because I wanted to forget about you, we always promised ourselves to never date or catch feelings for eachother, because we believed it'll ruin our friendship"

you looked to your right to catch a glimpse of his face only to find out he was already staring at you

you took his hands in yours and layed them on your lap and with a comforting smile you told him "that's what i told my self too jaeyun, but love can't be hidden like any other emotion ,I've had a crush on you for as long ask i can remember and I always shrugged it off but I can't handle seeing you like this anymore" he then tightened his grip around your hands and replied with" do you wanna maybe be my girlfriend? " you quickly said"yes! omg of course jae" you then kissed him again but unlike the first kiss this one was hurried but still as meaningful as the first one

✦⋆𓆩✧𓆪⋆✦

you suddenly heard loud cheering and screams, only to realize your friends have been watching the whole thing from the start

˳೫˚∗

(note: this is my first time writing an actual fic so please go easy on me😭😭, I'll gladly take any constructive criticism of any kind just no hate💗)

this is all fiction and not meant to represent any mentioned idols as they are in real life

©lovelypham works 2024

[stay-mon-army]

Anything For You, Darling

Word Count: 3,410 words

Warnings: depression, anxiety

Pairing: OPLA!Sanji x reader

Note: This is completely self-indulgent but I hope that other people will enjoy this like I enjoyed making it. Also, I am OBSESSED with OPLA so please please interact, give me ideas/requests, suggest me fics, anything. I've found a new hyperfixation with this (specifically Sanji and Zoro) so this might be something I write a lot rn!

Living life on the Going Merry was a content existence to say the least. You didn’t often have to worry about being bored; something was always happening to keep you entertained. You rarely had to worry about food; Sanji was never far away with a new dish he wanted someone to try (you just had to get there before Luffy). You didn’t have to worry about if you were even going in the right direction; somehow Nami knew exactly where to go based on those very confusing scraps of paper she calls maps.

Life was arguably great. You couldn’t ask for more. But no matter how good life was, how many times your stomach hurt from laughing along with the crew, how many times you smiled at the happy family you had collected for yourself, something always felt a little off. You weren’t unhappy, you just felt… disquieted in your bones? Sometimes you felt as pessimistic as Usopp when you thought about your feelings. You couldn’t ever just feel good without something in your brain interrupting and whispering sad thoughts into your mind.

That’s why you liked spending so much time with Sanji – he doesn’t let you stay in your mind for very long. He isn’t quite as chatty as Luffy, who never seems to stop talking if someone is within earshot, but he keeps a good conversation and you can’t lie, the compliments and the food are pretty hard to beat.

You often spent your free hours curled up on a bar stool in the kitchen, watching Sanji chop up vegetables and prepare whatever the next meal is while you talk about everything and nothing at the same time. Even when the conversation lulls and you settle into silence with the chef, you never get that disquieting feeling like you do when you’re alone. Just listening to the bubbling of a boiling pot of water or the soft whish of the knife against the cutting board is enough to sooth your rushing thoughts into a calm river that passes you by.

You enjoyed the playful bantering and flirting with Sanji, the way he sometimes lets you sneak a taste of whatever he’s cooking before it’s completely done, the way you can just enjoy the swaying of the ship and the scents permeating the air.

However, unbeknownst to you, some of the straw hats noticed your connection with the blond chef. One morning, as you stepped from your room and stretched under the beating sun shining onto the deck, Nami slides over, standing beside you with her arms crossed over her chest.

“Good morning, Nami! How did you sleep?” You smile, stretching out the tiredness from your arms. She smiles back at you, beginning to wander slowly to the railing away from the others milling about on the deck.

“Good, thank you. I wanted to talk to you for a minute, if you don’t mind.” She nods her head towards the rail and you follow along, intrigued by the lilt in her tone.

“Of course, what’s up?” You sidle over beside her, leaning against the rail and closing your eyes against the spray that tickles the skin on your nose and cheeks.

She rests her elbows beside yours and looks over at you, her orange hair blowing behind her with the wind.

“I’ve noticed you spend a lot of time with Sanji. What’s going on there?” You furrow your brows, not sure you’re understanding what she’s insinuating.

“We’re really good friends. I like spending time with him. It’s better than being alone, or dealing with Luffy’s rants.” You joke, chuckling to yourself. You love your captain but sometimes he really was a chatter box.

Nami doesn’t seem to accept your dismissal of her question, turning to face you, one arm leaning against the rail while her other hand comes to lay against her jean-clad hip. “Come on, the way you two are always flirting with each other? You know, he’s stopped flirting with me since you’ve started spending so much time in the kitchen. Don’t get me wrong, the pet names never stop, but he hasn’t been so… forward. Not that I’m complaining, it’s about time he got the hint.” She smirks at you as she says this, as though you’re supposed to know what that all means.

“I’m not sure what that has to do with me. I like to joke around with him too; that’s all it is. Jokes. I mean, no way there’s anything actually there, he flirts with everyone. I mean, he still flirts with the women in towns when we dock. That’s just how he is.” Nami doesn’t look convinced but you shrug her off. “Listen, Nami, I just like spending time with him. If something were to happen, that would be between Sanji and I. For now, I would appreciate you taking me for my word. We’re friends, he makes me feel safe, there doesn’t have to be anything else out of it.”

She puts her hands up, smiling at you sadly. “I’m sorry if I overstepped. I would just make sure he was aware of that, if I were you. You wouldn’t want to lead him on and hurt his feelings.”

With that, she waved and wandered off towards the map room. You sink against the railing, closing your eyes against the sinking feeling filling your gut again. Were you being too nice to Sanji? Nami said he wasn’t flirting with her as often; was it really because of you? You didn’t think that you were giving him the wrong idea; you never crossed any lines, as far as you could tell. Sure, Sanji was clingy – he liked hugs and touching your hands and arms, he would sometimes feed you little scraps of food like fruit as he’s working, you both often flirted with each other, you both called each other pet names, and you always sit next to him at dinner.

But were those necessarily bad things? Was Sanji thinking it meant something more? You thought you both understood you were friends.

Did you want more?

The thought stopped you in your tracks, your eyes snapping open as you stared into the ocean.

No, of course not. You were just friends, that’s all it was. He was nice to you, you got along so well and you didn’t want the relationship to change in any way – you had no intention of turning this into anything more. At least for now…

You run a hand over your face, groaning softly to yourself. You shouldn’t let what Nami said bother you so much. You shake your body out one last time, hoping to rid yourself of both the tightness from your rest and the stress of what Nami mentioned.

You continue with your morning routine, going to the bathroom to relieve yourself and freshen up a little before heading towards the kitchen. Nothing was going to stop you from seeing your favorite blond.

You step through the door and are instantly met with the sweet scent of maple and berries. Sanji turns towards the door when he hears its resounding squeak, a smile instantly lighting up his face as he spots you.

“Good morning, darling! I hope you slept well. I made pancakes for breakfast today, with an assortment of fruit.” He gently pushes forwards a plate, decorated beautifully with an array of colors from the fruits topping the cakes.

“Thank you, Ji. You always know exactly what to cook to make the day a little better.” You smile, sliding into your respective seat. You pull the plate closer to you, lifting the fork and knife he has set out before you. Just as you raise the fork to begin eating, you notice that Sanji is staring at you.

You pause, looking up at the man with a raised eyebrow. He always liked hearing whether you enjoyed the newest dish (he really really loved praise) but he had never been so brazen about watching you eat before. “Can I help you, sweetie?” You ask, smiling at the way his face seems to melt at the pet name, nearly turning him to jelly before your very eyes. He really was just a big softie, at the end of the day.

“You just seem off this morning, my love. I wanted to make sure you were alright. I apologize if I’ve caused any offense.” He says, wiping his hands on a towel before tossing it over his shoulder.

“I seem off?” You chuckle awkwardly, hoping that you don’t radiate the problems running through your head. You didn’t want to worry him – he was always so kind and good to you, the last thing you wanted was to mar him with the darkness in your brain that you spent so much time around him to avoid. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I simply mean that you seem a little more subdued is all. Again, I meant no offense. I just hope your meal will cheer you up from whatever is dampening my sweet (y/n)’s demeanor this morning.” He turns away as he says this, as though it doesn’t really matter either way what happens with you, but you know that’s just how he “keeps his cool”.

Sanji’s entire existence wraps around his ability to put on an air of confidence and poise, as though nothing can truly touch him or hurt him, when you are well aware that he feels much more deeply than he lets on. You don’t think that any of the other straw hats noticed this about the chef, but after spending so much time with him, you knew that he simply wore his heart on his rolled up sleeve – there, but only if you have the attention and the compassion to look that close.

You don’t respond, simply beginning to dig into the food placed before you. Unsurprisingly, it’s everything you could have asked for, and more. Somehow, in record time, Sanji seemed to memorize your palate, knowing exactly what things you liked, what you disliked, what you couldn’t stomach to eat, what ratios of flavors brought you the most joy. You didn’t think he paid that much attention, since he was always working while you talked and he never watched you eat, but without a doubt, Sanji knew exactly what you needed at any moment to satisfy your cravings.

You hum as you eat, vocalizing your enjoyment so that Sanji knows he did well, despite the fact he hasn’t turned back to look at you. When you finally finish your meal, you rise from the bar, collecting your dishes and heading to the sink to wash. You had the unspoken job of cleaning the dishes after Sanji. He hated that you did it, claiming that he could totally clean up after himself. But you felt bad, spending all your time in the kitchen with him but watching him do all the work. So, you resolved to cleaning the dishes to help out.

You quickly wash your dishes, scrubbing away the sticky, sugary mess that the syrup and fruits made on the plate. As you turn to grab something to dry the plate off with, you nearly stumble into Sanji’s outstretched hand holding out a dish towel for you. You take it, smiling up at him gratefully. He winks at you before turning back to whatever he was doing at the stove.

You dry off the plate, put it back in its respective spot, and settle yourself back onto your bar stool. As you rest your arms against the counter, putting your chin against your palms, you watch the way that Sanji flits about the kitchen. He seems to be doing a million things at once, from cutting up food for prep to mixing up what looks like some kind of dipping sauce to stirring a boiling broth. You can’t imagine thinking about all of those things at once without burning or ruining something.

Your mind slowly drifts to the way he looks so calm and serene doing it all. His face stays in a gentle smile, as though there isn’t anywhere he would rather be than here. He practically dances around from place to place, light on his toes and seemingly high in spirits. His hands are graceful as he quickly slides the knife to slice whatever ingredient he needs next; his chest rising and falling so slowly, you wonder if he’s breathing. His effortlessness never seizes to amaze you.

“I know I’m fascinating, but I would love to know what has you so enthralled by my movements today, mon cherie. If there’s something wrong, please don’t let it fester. Spill your heart to me, my love.” He leans his arms against the counter, his head tilted to look at you with softened eyes, as though you might run away at any moment. As if you would ever run away from him.

“I don’t know.” You mumble, not wanting to get into it with him, but the way he looks at you, with those seemingly all-knowing eyes, you can’t help but crumble. “Fine, I just- I talked with Nami this morning, and she mentioned some things that got me thinking. Which isn’t always good for me, because sometimes my brain doesn’t like me and it says mean things to me. So I try not to think, which usually being here with you makes it easier, but because of the conversation today, it makes it worse, but I don’t want to not be with you, because I don’t want you to worry and I do like spending time with you, so I didn’t want to change our routine, but the routine is what’s making me think, so now I’m just in this spiral.”

You sigh at the end, flopping against the table so your head rests against your forearms and you don’t have to look at Sanji, who you know is probably looking at you like a lunatic. After a moment, you hear the sound of his shoes scuffing against the floor and you freeze, for fear that he was leaving, like so many other people you had scared away. Instead, the sound grows closer and you soon feel a gentle hand resting against your side, guiding you up from the counter and towards his body.

You turn yourself into the embrace, surprised at how gently he cradles your body against his, one hand resting against your back, the other coming to cup your head against his chest. He holds you as though he expects you to break, and you nearly rip yourself from his grasp at the thought that he must be pitying you. How horribly morbid and depressing you must have sounded, saying how “mean” your thoughts are, as though it wasn’t your own problem to deal with. Telling him was selfish and would surely make him see you completely differently from how he saw you before.

“You know I’m here for you, whatever you need. Whether that be a place to hide out from your thoughts, or a talking companion to wander through those feelings, or simply a nice meal, I’m always here to help you feel better.” He presses his lips against the top of your head and you pull away softly, not wanted to offend him, but needing to say something more.

“That’s another problem.” You sigh, rubbing a hand over your face as the Frenchman furrows his brows at you. “Nami made it seem like I’m leading you on by treating you like this. That spending time with you and flirting with you and all these things are going to make you think something else about me. And I don’t want that to happen. Too many times have I cared for someone, shared my time and joy with that person, felt that we couldn’t be closer or better friends, and then something goes wrong and somehow it’s always my fault. Sometimes, the person starts to like me more than I like them or more than I’m willing to admit and if I don’t continue to act a certain way or give them a certain experience with our relationship or act a certain way, they leave. Or sometimes, people begin to think I act weird or they begin to get annoyed by certain behaviors and then they distance themselves and they leave. Sometimes I’m mean to them because I hold them to a high standard because I love them so I want to have good times with them and that’s stressful and they leave. Sometimes I try to act how I think they want me to act and that makes them leave. Sometimes I’m too clingy and people become afraid I’m too attached and they leave. There’s always something, but in the end everyone leaves. But you…”

You take a deep breath, looking at the way Sanji is silently crying, tears falling from his eyes, but he doesn’t move or say a word, only watching you, waiting for you to spill your heart to him.

“You make me so damn happy. You are kind and gentle and you listen to me and you notice little things before I have to even mention them to you. You seem to know everything I’m thinking before I have to say it, you can read my body language and you’re willing to do anything for me if I ask or even just think it and I’m so so afraid I’ll mess everything up and I’ll lose you too. Because god damn it, if I lose one more person who means so much to me, I might just burst. I might not come back from it all and I really really need you to understand that the way you quiet my brain and make me feel so normal and calm is something I just can’t lose. You are the one person I think can truly understand me and I love you so much for that, but I’m so afraid that any little step will send you pushing me away.”

Sanji shakes his head, reaching his hands out for you again, and you can’t stop him from pulling you into his embrace. His tears fall against the top of your head and you quickly realize you were crying too because your tears soak into his shirt and stick it against your face. You just stay like that for a while, letting him hold you, his lips resting against your head to give small kisses to your scalp.

Finally he releases you enough to pull you back, looking down at you with sad, sweet eyes.

“I will never leave you. Until the ends of the earth, until the sun dies, until you push me away, I will never leave you. I see you, (y/n), I see what you go through, the pain your brain puts you through, the horrible memories I know plague your every waking movement. I can see through it all because I go through it every day. And I know that you see me, just as well. We are open books to each other, my love, and there’s nothing we can do except cherish each other and protect each other. I know what Nami said to you.”

You take a breath, about to explain everything to him, put he shushes you, placing his hand against your cheek.

“You have nothing to explain, sweetheart. I am here for you, however you need me. And I can only hope that I can get a sliver of the same in return. But until you tell me otherwise, I will be your partner through think and thin. I am at your disposal as friend, confidante, chef, anything, as long as you continue to smile and make me smile. Do you understand?”

You sob again, pulling the blond chef against you this time, arms wrapping around his neck to pull him flush against you. You thank him, repeatedly, over and over, like a mantra, until he pulls away to wipe your tears from your face.

“Anything for you, darling. Now, let me finish cooking lunch.” He steps back around to the other side of the counter, sliding you a small plate of crackers you hadn’t noticed before, winking at you, before turning back to the stove.

You nibble happily on one of the salty crackers, resting your elbows against the counter as you watched his back. He truly was the only one who understood you.

[ryupages]

(g)i-dle reaction to you doubting why they chose you

@ryupages / xenia

genre: fluff(?), angst(?)

pairing: ot6 x reader

warning(s): n/a, just some self doubt

note: i’ve been gone from this account for waayy too long, a lot has happened but i figured i’m ready to continue writing! happy pride month everyone!!!

miyeon (미연)

miyeon was expecting the question to come up sooner or later. she saw the way you looked at the other people miyeon was surrounded by.. and no matter how much she’d compliment you, you still felt as though you couldn’t compare.

even though she was anticipating it, the question shattered her heart nonetheless.

miyeon pouted and frowned as you beat around the bush, mentioning how all these other people were beautiful and more in your girlfriend’s league.

however, she knew what you were trying to say: “why did you choose me?”

clinging onto you mid sentence, miyeon once again reassured you that she loves you and listed all the reasons why she chose you. she made sure that you knew that you were one and only choice.

“please believe my words, you’re all i could ever ask for.”

—

minnie (민니)

someone must’ve poisoned your mind. out of nowhere, you’re asking what she sees in you? she couldn’t lie; there was an underlying anger settling in the bottom pit of her stomach. it wasn’t exactly directing at you for asking, just the thought of someone out there making you question just how much love she held for you.

“who?”

she blurted out the question in the middle of your doubtful rant, startling yet confusing you.

noticing your confusion, she elaborated, “who made you feel this way? is it me? who made you doubt my love for you?”

you fell quiet. minnie only stared at you until she got an answer, knowing that whatever you replied with would only make her heart frown.

what felt like hours passed, and you finally spoke. you told her that it was just your insecurities catching up to you, especially seeing the idols she interacts with on shows and interviews.

minnie sighed, upset that you let your thoughts win over your emotions. putting that mild disappointment aside, she understood and made sure you knew just how much she loved and adored you.

—

soojin (수진)

she could find out anything. soojin watched from afar as your mood became bitter while watching her on shows with other idols. she took note of the way your face grew sour as she talked to her other friends, friends that she knew you were comparing yourself to.

but she never said a word.

the last thing she wanted was for to feel like a fool, but she also couldn’t do nothing while you felt like you were out of soojin’s league. you were as beautiful as a field of flowers. she adored you so much.

from extra kisses to bragging about you to the idols she noticed you stared extra long at, soojin tried her best to make you feel loved. holding you in bed a little tighter, complimenting you even if your hair was sticking out after a long nap.. she let you know how beautiful she saw you.

“you’re really cute when you do that, y/n.. how’d i get so lucky?”

—

soyeon (소연)

it didn’t click for her at first. she chalked up your small remarks in regards of yourself to just having a bad moment, and she made sure to reassure you. however, the insults you made towards yourself gradually became more and more. she observed your body become tense as she talked to another idol, a bitter expression resting on your face. were you jealous? you had no reason to be, she wouldn’t date anyone else other than you.

she never stopped reassuring you, but the last straw was when you said that she was going to leave you for a specific idol that she had been casually talking to. she overheard you say it as she approached your shared bathroom. she clenched her jaw before opening the door, asking why you would ever say such a thing and actually believe it.

she held you as you cried, apologizing for the words you spewed out before. she only held you tighter, whispering that you were her only choice.

—

yuqi (우기)

she thought it was funny. when you approached her and asked if she’d rather date tzuyu than you, she couldn’t help but let out a small chuckle. she asked if you were actually being serious. when you nodded, more giggles erupted.

you were lost; what was so funny? when the laughter died down, yuqi finally gave you a stern look, making you shudder at how quick her mood changed. she cocked an eyebrow in confusion before speaking,

“what makes you think i’d want her?”

you hesitated before beating around the bush, the phrases “she’s prettier” and “you’d look better with her” being muttered out of your mouth.

yuqi frowned, stopping you mid sentence with a gentle kiss to your lips. she pulled away before resting her head against yours.

“don’t be a fool, you’re the only one i could ever imagine being with for a very long time.”

—

shuhua (슈화)

she never gave you a chance to doubt her love to you. she literally wouldn’t. everyone knew she was taken, HAPPILY taken and by whom. she loved proudly and anyone that tried to flirt with her or shoot their shot was immediately shut down.

she was in an interview with the rest of the group, and she was visibly not having it. it was when the interviewer asked shuhua if she’d ever replace you with someone who’s prettier that almost tipped her over the edge. she finally broke when he even suggested idols that would be “a better fit” for her.

shuhua immediately shot up out of her seat, knowing you’re at home probably believing and agreeing with his disgusting words.

“how dare you say something like that? y/n is the only one i love, i don’t need your useless “suggestions” on who is better for me!”

the members calm her down and move her back to her seat but she could care less if her reputation would be tainted after this. she didn’t want someone else. you were her only one.

and you knew that.

—

gifs are not mine!! credits go to their rightful owners!! 🩶

[earthry]

Affirmations For Papa | Secondo x Reader

Content / Warnings: Papa Emeritus II/Reader, SFW, 1.1k words, Secondo Angst

Author’s Note: Much thanks and love to @angelohspeak who encouraged me to post this <3 this is also definitely heavily influenced by our talks about Secondo <3

You introduce affirmations to Secondo and he has trouble accepting them.

“You’re not even trying, are you?” You’re sorely unimpressed with Secondo’s first few attempts; like a school boy blurting out whatever apology he was forced to give without any self reflection. You prop yourself up with an elbow, turning in bed to give him a leveled stare. He doesn’t look even remotely sorry, but he does scowl.

“What the fuck does that mean?” He looks frankly, a little insulted under the candlelight, his brow pronounced and furrowed in a furious manner. You do your best to soothe his ego with a sweet voice, brushing your thumb against his angry little wrinkles. You love the feeling of his skin against yours; some nights you’re content to just map out his body, traveling hands warm to the touch as you explore your lover.  

“It’s not that I think you’re lying, mio caro. I just mean, you have to take it seriously. You have to think it and say it at the same time, you can’t just spit it out like it’s a rotten tomato.”

“Might as well be–” He mutters, eyes cast elsewhere before wincing when you give him a little kick under the blankets. “Satanas, woman, alright I’ll do it!” 

He curses and rubs his leg with a wounded huff and the night echoes with soft petals of your laughter. You continue to gently massage his forehead and cheeks of wrinkles from his scowl. A few moments of silence pass as you settle, before you nudge him. “Well?”

“I’m… I am.. enough.” He mumbles so quietly you have to strain your ears. His body is still tense against yours, rigid as a board. Like he doesn’t understand why you’re doing this, like he doesn’t understand why it’s so hard to say something so simple with confidence. In front of anyone else, he knows he can shoulder it, knows he can announce it to the whole ministry if they asked. But with you he crumbles, with you he can’t lie. It’s not only because he knows you’d see through the lie within a heartbeat, but also because he cannot bring himself to. 

Even in the dim lighting, you can see the turmoil warring across his features and reward him with a kiss to his nose for his troubles, which scrunches despite the pleased hum it draws from him. His shoulders are still tense, a violin string taunt against it’s foundation.

“Again,” You coax, voice soft. Your fingers trail down his cheek and he leans into your hand only marginally more relaxed. 

“I am enough.” It’s louder, but you know him well enough to hear the hesitancy in his voice. This time you place a kiss to his temple. 

“Again.”

“Cazzo, haven’t I said it enough?” He speaks harshly but you hear it for what it is: a plea. You can feel him begin to pull away but you don’t let him. “Per favore amore mio, why are you doing this,” he says roughly. He’s sat completely up now, and you push yourself off the bed as well, leaning against the headboard as you regard your lover.

“Because I love you, and you deserve to, too.” Your answer draws a sharp inhale from him, and he lets his head fall onto you, forehead resting against your shoulder. 

“This is stupido but fine. I am enough.” 

“Thank you.” He receives a soft kiss to his lips that he chases until you pull too far out of reach. Your grouchy lover swears up and down that he never pouts but right now? He is definitely pouting. “Mm, we’re not finished yet. Next one, okay? I am doing my best.” There’s a heavy sigh against you before he mutters it back to you. You know how hard this is for him, so you let that one slide and reward him with his kiss. Slowly, you begin cycling through your list, your kisses traveling between his cheeks to his forehead to his hand to his lips again. He savors each one, and with each phrase, you try to paint him the way you see him. You wish he could see it too. 

I am worthy of love. I am more than a body. I can accept love from myself. Everything that I am is enough. I am allowed to choose myself.

It’s that last one that does it. He’s gotten quieter and quieter but that last one he can’t even finish– he just can’t do it no matter how hard he tries to shape his lips around the words, no sound comes out and before he knows it, his cheeks are wet. 

Papa Emeritus II is not a crier.

But tonight, he is laid bare in more ways than one. His voice strangled, tapering off as he shuts himself down. You can see wide shoulders curling in on itself protectively, little tremors making themselves known. He’s not a crier, he doesn’t sob or sniffle or wail. He’s quiet and you pull him into your arms. He’s no longer alone, and you wrap your arms around him and for a second his body is stiff before it practically melts and he collapses into you. He’s still silent, but you can feel the wetness against your neck and you hold him together. 

He doesn’t talk about it often; doesn’t even like it being mentioned most days, but sometimes when he looks into a mirror he doesn’t recognize himself. Doesn’t recognize the shape the church has push and pulled him into.

“I feel a little... used,” He admitted one night in the safety of your bedroom, in the safety of the darkness that swallowed the two of you. You hold him close and he buries his face in your shoulder. “Everything I’ve been taught has been by the church, for the church and this message they want to send the world. I don’t really know anything outside of what they’ve given me.”

It wasn’t as if he hated it. He had his own visions for the church, he loved his followers, his people. He enjoyed partying up to the early hours of the morning, loved indulging in the carnal pleasures of papacy.

But the mornings, the comedown?

It was like it was another man in that hotel bathroom mirror staring back at him with smudged paint and lipstick marks. They might as well have been tattooed to his skin with how hot they burned.

“I feel so detached sometimes, that I don’t know what to do.”

The room is still except for Secondo’s shaking shoulders and your comforting murmurs. You tell him to take as much time as he needs, you tell him you will always be here, you are always on his side. (His side. His side and not the church’s, isn’t that a wild thought?)

But most of all, you tell him what he cannot bring himself to say just yet, you tell him the one thing he's never been told before by anyone. Not his mother, not his father, not the church or sister imperator. Not a single soul until now.

He's allowed to choose himself.

And maybe, just maybe-- maybe he begins to believe it.

[favouriteconstellation]

sweet torture

18+ readers only please lovelies!! (this is for a reason please listen<3)

little synopsis: a man hits on the reader at a bar innocently, and this leads to an interrogation from stephen who is incredibly possessive...

pronouns: female pronouns are used

relationship: fem reader x stephen strange

note: not super proud of this but like i will be uploading this because being overly self-critical is not hot xx i hope you enjoy this i love u!!

warnings: stephen being possessive, controlling lowkey insecure, accusations of cheating, smut, dacryphilia, bdsm, temp play (ice), sensory deprivation, dd/lg kind offf ??

“who is he?”

“i told you! i don't know what his name is.” you gritted through your teeth, angered about how unnecessarily prolonged this conversation had become. 

stephen was naturally a very tall man, you had always found this characteristic of his incredibly attractive, until now. his figure towered over you, inches away. his usual soft blue eyes darkened as he bent down to your height, you could feel his hot breath against your neck and the occasional graze of his goatee against your skin, it burned and you loved it. 

“i'm gonna ask one more time, what's his name baby?..” he whispered in your ear.

jesus christ you hated how much control he had over you when he was like this. you didn't know ‘his name’, he was just a guy at a bar who was drunk and hitting on you. of course you turned him down, but stephen’s always been overprotective, dare you say downright possessive. you hated the way him looking down at you and whispering made you press your thighs together, fighting being angry at him. but god, his possessiveness was hot as shit.

“what are you gonna do? here you are trying to sound so threatening. what? you gonna pull some KGB shit on him?? because i'm pretty sure i can handl-” your sentence came to a crashing halt at his undeniably quick response. 

“i’m going to fuck you within an inch of your life, actually. hows that sound? and its going to be for me, not for you.” your stomach dropped. jealousy sex sounded hot on paper but he loved to drive a response out of you, a yelp, a squeal until your cheeks were painted with tears and you were begging for him to stop teasing you.

“stephen..we could just talk this out, i promise you he was just drunk” you mumbled out, looking wide eyed. although you couldn’t lie to yourself, the way you were gently begging him to fuck you, to gain some relief. this shouldn’t be arousing but fuck it is. stephen noticed this, he also noticed how your cheeks flushed, and how your pupils dilated - he could read you like a book. 

before you could show even an inkling of shame or embarrassment for being turned on because of him, you yelped as he effortlessly slung your body over his shoulder - your legs failing in surprise and your ass in the air. you were brought back to reality by the familiar sound of his portals opening as you were no longer in the sanctum foyer. 

“stephen..” you breathed out as you were laid down on his bed, god you wanted him. 

“spread those pretty arms and legs for me, yeah baby?” His deep baritone voice was the only sense of sound you could focus on. you did as you were told and his fingers snapped, his godforsaken magic leaving you bare in his bed. the cold hit you, your nipples immediately hardening. 

“you just have to be good for me, huh sweet girl? that’s all i’m asking baby.” he whispered as he firmly grabbed your wrists and ankles, binding them to his dark oak bed posts. you laid there, looking defeated as he reached over you, stopping to hover and smirking condescendingly.

“don’t act like we both don't know you were pressing those pretty little thighs together 2 minutes ago” he chuckled. he knew your deepest desires, it was as if he could poke and prod around inside your mind, well- realistically, he probably could..much to your horror.

the last thing you saw were his scarred fingers holding fabric that he ever so gently tied around your head, blocking your sight. unironically he could have done all of this in less than 30 seconds with a wave of his hands, but was purposefully prolonging the torture knowing you were impatient.

“stephen.. please” you barely whispered, begging for his touch. he tutted devilishly at your impatience. he conjured an ice cube, placing it on your torso with no warning. you couldn’t help but squeal at the freezing sensation you weren't prepared for, he swirled it up and down your torso, slowly - leaving a trail of melted ice, now cold water that pooled around your lower stomach. your back arched at the sensation, pulling at the magical binding. you could feel a band in your lower stomach building inside you, you wanted to free yourself, kick, scream, touch him. his cruel tongue lapped up the water slowly, teasing you - a familiar feeling. the ice cube rolled over your nipples as you tugged on the ropes, your back arching and your body jolting forward as much as it could. 

“look at you... mm??” he laughed. the icecube disappeared and for a moment you couldn't feel his touch, you whined at the feeling. 

“is my little girl feeling needy?? mm..?” His head darted between your already spread legs, kissing the soft flesh on your inner thighs and lazily licking them, as if he was preoccupied. you moaned softly, the relief you felt for him to be even remotely close to where you wanted him. 

“please stephen..” you whined, tears pooling in your eyes in absolute desperation, throwing your head back as he slid his tongue between the wet warmth of your pussy, lapping up your slick in long, cruel strokes. the teasing bastard. he licked circles around your clit, but didnt touch it once - not yet. he placed his large hand on your lower stomach to further stimulate you as his goatee rubbed against your thighs, scratching and burning once again. you were shuddering and shaking, pulling at the robes like a fucking mess. 

“come on baby, give it to me. let me ruin you for a sec, yeah? i got ya.” he praised, as he paused to pepper kisses and then went back to work. it was only 8pm and knowing him, you still had at least 2 hours of this left.

[obsessivelollipoplalala]

I really want to write fan fiction again but, I'm kind of bad at articulating and creating different scenes and I thought about using chatgpt and I know that's frowned upon but I need help writing lol. Need some advice.

Do not use AI. People look down upon it for a reason. People will always have more respect for genuine, clumsy first attempts at writing rather than someone who publishes what a machine spit out for them. AI is not your work, and you will not improve by having a computer do things for you. I am being stern here to strongly discourage you from Shit GPT. If you tell people in the author’s notes that it’s your first fic, or first fic in a long time, you may very well get supportive comments! If anyone finds out it’s AI, at best, you’ll get people clicking out of the fic because they don’t think it’s worth their time to read something a person didn’t even write, and at worst, you might get angry comments calling you a cheater, in a similar way AI “artists” do. Please don’t do it. You’ll only be hurting your writing and the progression of your skills.

So, what should you do? First of all, know where your strengths lie and lean into them, and know where your weaknesses lie. I’ll give an example. Readers of my fic can feel free to confirm or deny my self-assessment, but I actually don’t think scenery and that kind of descriptive writing is my strong point. I think about what the reader needs to know about the physical space in a scene, maybe little things that could add to the atmosphere, such as describing candlelight glowing upon someone’s face, and I move on. I make sure the reader knows what’s happening in the physical space so nothing is vague or confusing, but that’s about it. I instead focus my writing on the internal monologue/prose of the character’s emotional state and dialogue, because I think those are my strongest points. That’s what I can do well and what pulls people in.

How to create a scene to begin with? It depends on the kind of fic you’re writing, but most of my fics have started out with me thinking about the characters so much that different scenarios pop into my head, and eventually, one takes root; or I’ll watch a scene and think it would be interesting to explore if it had gone differently. My current WIP is at 65k words with 6 chapters, and it began with the simple change to one scene in canon: Aziraphale and Crowley not simply knowing each other in Heaven as angels, but having a romantic relationship. A starting point as simple as that can produce a lot. Think about what you actually want to say about these characters, what kinds of scenarios you want to see them in. You can even think of a type of fic you’d love to read, and instead write it yourself. You can start small! Instead of searching for a fluffy morning-after in bed, for example, write it!

Once you have a starting point, ask yourself what is the most realistic, in-character next step for these characters. Good fic relies on good character analysis. That’s how you make your fic in-character. I generally don’t plan out my fics a lot, and instead have a core idea and some future scenes I want to write, and I ask myself how these characters would naturally build up to those future scenes. Would it be natural for the character to say this? What would they do in this situation you put them in?

Lastly: the key to writing well is reading. This goes for all kinds of writing. Read widely, read often. It helps you expand your vocabulary and to see how descriptions, dialogue, and the structure of scenes and stories work in real time. I began writing as a young teen, and while I absolutely think my writing is better now than it was in my first fics published in 2014, I was able to write at all because I was such a voracious reader at the time. It’s also why I was a good writer in school, because reading helps you write multiple types of pieces.

I hope this was helpful. Also, at the end of the day, it is just fan fiction. It’s fine if it’s not perfect. Open up a document and start jotting down ideas or snippets of dialogue to get your brain started

[aeoki]

White Brim - Epilogue 2

Location: Villa Characters: Touri, Tsukasa, Eichi & Hiyori

TL Note:

The term for “maid headdress” is “white brim” in Japanese. 

Touri: Oh, geez… I’m speechless.

How strange. I don’t even feel frustrated seeing how we suffered a complete defeat.

Eichi: Well, I’d say you two worked quite hard. It wouldn’t have been strange for us to end things earlier, but you two held on quite for quite a long time until the end.

Tsukasa: Tomoe Onii-sama was quite the nuisance… Who would’ve thought a “prey (fish)” would be armed.

Hiyori: Hehe. Even if one was quick to be stripped of their status, it’s difficult for them to rid themselves of the shackles of this world. And that’s also why it’s difficult for discrimination to completely disappear.

Even in a game that’s constructed in a convenient way for us, the problems of the real world still persist.

Eichi: Yeah. You notice the design flaw behind the weak rules. You deserve praise, Hiyori-kun – you’re surprisingly quite cunning.

Hiyori: Not as much as you, Eichi-kun. Just what on earth are you? A demon?

Eichi: I’ll take that as a compliment.

Touri: …………

Eichi: Hm? What’s wrong, Touri? Do you feel down after being tricked and defeated in such an overwhelming manner?

Are you disillusioned by me?

Touri: No… The Eichi-sama who shines beautifully like an angel on stage and the Eichi-sama who triumphs over everyone like a demon…

I love both sides of you. That’s what I’ve always said.

Eichi: I see. The tears you shed when you thought I had died were real. Even I don’t doubt that brilliance.

You truly care for someone like me.

Touri: Yeah. It looks like you’ve never believed me, though.

So teach me more about yourself – just like how you did this time. I want to learn about and love everything about the Eichi-sama that I adore.

Don’t hide yourself, put up a good front or pretend to be someone you’re not. Don’t show me a fake Eichi-sama – show me your real self.

Please. From now on, don’t distance yourself from me.

Eichi: I’ll do my best. That, I will promise.

I hope at the very least that when I’m truly dead, it won’t be a farewell at the bottom of despair that’s full of grief – I hope you’ll be able to smile if not just a little.

I’ll tell you everything about me. A little at a time. I pray you’ll be able to accept everything without collapsing from it all.

Touri: ………♪

Tsukasa: Hehe. It appears Touri-kun has finally reached the same place as I.

Just like how I received those things from Leader – from Leo-san – I’m glad you’ve also obtained it, albeit a bit late.

Touri: Why are you talking like you’re above me?

Tsukasa: Well, I am the winner this time round. I think the frustration I felt after losing to “Crazy:B” has somewhat dissipated ♪

Eichi: Right. Your virtue is in being straightforward, but there’s no such thing as a straight line in the natural world. You should learn to handle things in a more realistic and flexible way.

Tsukasa: Yes. Thank you for the opportunity, Tenshouin Onii-sama ♪

Now, I understand how enjoyable it can be to reflect and chat about the game we played last night, but I’m sure you’re all busy people.

So shall we make use of the “winner’s privilege” right away?

Touri: ? What’re you talking about?

Eichi: Hehe. We’re holding quite a lavish banquet this time – Would you like to see another wicked and dirty side of me, Touri?

It can be more effective to lie instead of telling the truth at times, you see.

Touri: ………?

Eichi: I’ve talked to Tsukasa-kun and Anzu-chan about this already and it seems Hiyori-kun knows, but has chosen to stay silent. To tell you the truth, the losers of the “Clam Digging” game will serve the winners for a whole day.

Tsukasa: That’s right. That’s the “winner’s privilege” – the reward we received for winning.

Touri: Huh? Serve you guys…? We already faced humiliation when we lost but we have to feel more shame?

Eichi: The winners gain everything while the losers lose it all… Come, Anzu-chan, it’s time to bring out the outfits you made.

Touri: Huh? What? Anzu, why do you have such a happy look in your eyes…!?

Tsukasa: Hehe. I thought it would be odd for Onee-sama to trick and betray you, but I see this was her goal.

Onee-sama must be really wanting to have us wear such adorable outfits.

To be honest, I can’t quite understand those feelings, but as I also like Onee-sama very much, then I, too, wish to understand her.

So, Touri-kun. You’re going to be my cute maid for the day.

Eichi: And Hiyori-kun shall be my maid ♪ Don’t run away now! It’s not your first time, is it?

Hiyori: T–This is why I didn’t want to attend the parties that Eichi-kun is in charge of!

I don’t mind wearing a cute maid outfit, but I don’t want to serve you!

Eichi: Well, why don’t you just admit that you were unlucky?

I know you must have wanted to be the “hunter (fisherman)” to defeat me, making me yield to you.

Unfortunately, reality doesn’t play out so easily in your favour.

Hiyori: Urgh, how frustrating! I’ll definitely win next year! And I’ll return this humiliation to you a hundred times as much!

Eichi: That’s something a gambler would say.

Tsukasa: That’s right. If you’re frustrated, then just win next time.

…I won’t lose, either – Not again.

Touri: N–No! Just so you know, I lost to Eichi-sama – Not you, Tsukasa!

I guess I’ve got no choice because of the rules, but I wanna be Eichi-sama’s servant at least! I don’t wanna serve Tsukasa!

Tsukasa: Now, stop whining and trying to get away. What are you, a small child?

Touri: Uwaaaaaah! Stop! Don’t force me to wear it! Don’t try to put that white brim headdress[⁎] on me!

Eichi: You must give something of equal value if you’re to gain something in return, Touri.

If you don’t want to wear the headdress that indicates you’re a loser, then grow – be stronger.

And win the next time.

Fortunately, there should be numerous opportunities for you in the future.

Touri: G–Geez, I’ve had enough of this~! Teach me what’s important and unimportant in a normal way, Eichi-sama!

I’ll come to hate you if you treat me horribly, okay? Eichi: Ahaha. I suppose I’ll teach you how to do a good job lying first…♪

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ← Previous Chapterf

[loyaltykask]

Chapter 25

@journeythroughjourneytothewest

Please note Wukong giggles when he is lying apparently

HE TERRIBLE POKER PLAYER

Sanzang really just said "As long as you apologize everything should be fine" and Wukong SNITCHES COME ON. Even Bajie knew not to snitch!

Honestly, good for him not killing them outright. It is the little things but THAT IS GROWTH

It so weird to me that because they got to curse at these guys for like 30 minutes straight they then think 'huh they didn't yell back, maybe we are in the wrong?' only to be fucking blindsided with a broken ass tree

These brats really think they are clever 'trapping' them in the room as if Wukong can't just make an exit through he fucking wall. Like they made a whole ass plan lying to get them seated and fed when really they just got a free meal

Okay now that was uncalled for he had been waiting 10 lifetimes for this

Sanzang: You just had to start shit didn't you? Wukong: I regret nothing. The End.

I like how Wukong describes the Fillet Tightening Spell gives him 'a hard time' like...... Understatement of the century bruh but okay if that's how you wanna see it.

I do like that Sanzang is seen as a lawful good guy but like deadass he 100% on board for sneaking out in the middle of the night to avoid responsibilities. Also, he just asks Wukong not to fucking kill the lads, like they don't need any more trouble. Man's go-to plan is always "lets fucking leave"

Also Wukong has sleep bugs, I'm adding that to his powers

Wukong just dissociates so hard not to deal with this bullshit

NO NOW YOU KNOW HOW TO LIE

This is why Bailong doesn't show his true self, he just minding his own business

Strange priorities but.... guess at least he has some Not to be stabbed but whipping is A Okay....

Wukong knows that Sanzang can't take 30 lashes and takes it on himself

This probs the first time we see him take responsibility for his actions when he sees that it affects others and for the sake of someone else he admits that he was in the wrong for it

Also being hard as steel is damn helpful

Did they..... did they wipe the fur Wukong's legs? Is he bald there now? Is this like a shaving to him?

No pleasing this guy

Okay maybe staying up for 48 hours straight would make you grumpy but still

First 3 on 1 battle. Do like Wukong asked to kill the guy first, he didn't wait for an answer but at least he asked

It's good to know even in the direst situations these two assholes still have enough gumption in themselves to still joke about being burned alive, fried, and then oiled like "Yeah yeah, being tortured we've already seen it"

OH HE IS WORRIED THO THE POOR ASS MONKEY! HE JUST WANNA TALK BIG THO

Man playing 4D chess out here: How to fix a tricky situation, makes yourself a rock and fucking break the oil out like a pro

Kudos to Wukong for still not letting Sanzang get boiled alive Also extra kudos to him saying "I had to go take a piss and didn't want to ruin the oil" like a valid reason as any really

[v3nusxsky]

So yeah, the other piece was great. And thinking about it I must have chosen pain when I wrote it. But reading it through did give me the idea for a potential part 3.

With it being Emily and Y/n in Paris together under their fake identitys. Letting them be safe together and able to heal from both Emily's 'death' and how Y/n spiralled to try and take her own life in response. So it would probably be a hint of angst but mostly be fluff. Thay way this small series can end happily. :)

Time Heals

*Authors note~ part 3 let's goooooo! I'm in love with this little series and this is a perfect end to it*

Trigger warnings~ mentions of faked death and a suicide attempt alludes to smut

Prompt~ see ask^^^^

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~previously~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"No! No you can't leave me! No not again. No!" You volume raising the more that sunk in, "I just got you back" you whimpered causing JJ to come closer in an attempt to comfort you. "Get the fuck away from me!" You almost growled, "I can't stand you right now" you spat at the blonde and Hotch before snuggling into your undead lover. Hotch explained the plan and reasons why and again apologised for having to lie but it was for Emily's safety. This time you would leave with Emily, for your safety and hers. When the team caught Doyle you could return home to your family. But for now you and Emily were shipped off to Paris once more with false identities to heal and grow from this. If it's possible for you two to repair the hurt you both sustained."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The plane ride to Paris was silent and truthfully you were happy for that, you were trying to process what you'd just been told. You and Emily sat next to each other, you holding onto two of her fingers in a hope to provide Emily some comfort but also to reassure yourself that she is in fact real. You knew that your relationship would need some work, Emily's faked death caused so much hurt and pain for you but for you to attempt to take your life was killing Emily on the inside. She could've lost you that night, JJ couldn't keep her in pairs after that.

Arriving in Paris, Emily immediately began to lead you through the hustle and bustle of a late night in the city of love. Paris is one of the places you truly found beautiful and if you were in a different situation, you would've been like a child on a Christmas morning to be here with your lover. Instead, you just kept your head down following the raven haired woman. Emily was uncharacteristically quiet the whole journey and when you both arrived at the hotel you were staying in you realised you'd have to talk.

"Em" you whimpered quietly hoping to gain her attention which you got. She turned to face you with self loathing and sadness swirling in her beautiful eyes. "I'm sorry Angel, I really didn't have a say in what happened. I never wanted to hurt you darling. And the thought that you could've taken yourself from the world just-" her words trailed off her true upset. "I don't want a life without you Ems" you mumbled sadly looking at the ground, "it felt like the only way out to find you Em."

"Angel, i can't lose you like that, please promise me never again" she demanded and you found yourself nodding in compliance, "I don't want a life without you Emily, but I don't want to die either" you murmured before throwing yourself into her arms. "Shh darling you don't have to live without me, never again okay? I'm here I'm alive and I'm yours angel." Her reassurance and actually being able to her heart steadily beating along as she held you tightly to her chest was helping to soothe all the hurt of the past few months. Emily was here and alive and  most importantly with you. Perhaps this time in Paris would do the world of you some good. But first thing first was sleep for you both.

Waking up back in Emily's arms was like heaven on earth. And to see her sleeping peacefully on her back as her raven hair fanned around her head you couldn't help but full in love all over again. While your lover slept you admired her features noticing all the changes, the worry lines and darker shadows under her eyes, her body seeming more frail than before. Yes she was still as beautiful as ever. Your hand absentmindedly lifted her sleep shirt to expose the scar the Doyle caused. Red and angry in the healing stages, you knew Emily had to be taking the permanent reminder hard. Then trailing your hands up further you were met with the brand he gave her. A sweet kiss was pressed to the brand then on the scar again.

It wasn't long till you were trailing kisses down her body addicted to the soft sleepy whines and whimpers she was realising. You didn't realise just how drunk on Emily you could get but here and now you didn't care. You'd missed this woman for months and now she was here and alive you couldn't help but want to ravish her. To show her how important she truly is to you and just how beautiful she is even with the new additions. Now at her thighs you noticed another new addition, a small yet simplistic tattoo written in French "mon cœur ne se lassera jamais de y/n"  I will never get tired of Y/n displayed there where only you would see it and herself.

"Angel?mmm feels good" she yawned sleepily only really processing that you happened to be showering her body in sweet kisses. "You're beautiful Em" you whisper before coming up to kiss her lips and now your sure. You and Emily can survive this, together. And what better place to spend some time alone together than in the beautiful city of Paris. Everything would be okay now, a kiss was truly all you needed to feel at home.

Word count~ 1026

[sarascamander]

I need to rant somewhere and here's the thing, holy fuck Holloway and Jack are ADORABLE. I'm just in chapter 5 of the second book and they already get me giggling and kicking my feet just by being themselves. I'm smiling like an idiot in public. I'm humiliated! Damn them.

1) their banter is EVERYTHING. They fought like a married couple I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. They banter so smoothly and sometimes out of topic that they forget the first topic and it's always about something so domestic like the state of Jack's room and Holloway's quirk. THEY'RE SO CUTE.

2) The communication *chef fucking kiss*. Communication is their strongest suit, honestly the other miscommunication trope can go fuck off. They tell each other when they're upset or angry and try to solve it now and here. It wasn't always easy but they always talked to each other about their feelings and other stuff. Like when H was following Jack and Aston. They laid out their feelings and sorted it out and it's SO SATISFYING. They know each other so damn well.

“Did you lie to me?” I asked.

His answer took a long time: the ticking of the snow against the windshield, the hiss of the heater, the engine’s purr. “No.”

“Did you think about it?”

He took even longer. “Yes.”

I nodded. “Could you have gotten away with it?

"Of course.” Then he shifted in his seat. Some of the Ivy League part had come loose and tumbled across his forehead. His voice held a faint note of chagrin as he added, “Until you asked me. I find it difficult to…prevaricate. With you.”

“What every boy dreams of hearing.”

3) Ariana is a cool girl and smart and really an angel who knows her worth. I like her and she deserves the World but for god sake please break up with Jack. He belongs to Holloway, please Ariana, you must see that. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

4) Jack is the best character ever. His sarcasm, his wit, his kindness, his patience — god, this guy is perfectly flawed and I love his broke ass. And I want to wrap Holloway in a fluffy blanket and hug him to death. He's adorable!!!!

5) Jack adored H so MUCH IT'S FREAKING ADORABLE. He noticed every one of H's habit and sometimes just drifted to the most romantic sweetest paragraph about how beautiful H is. LIKE STOP YOU'RE EMBARRASSING YOURSELF WITH HOW MUCH YOU'RE IN LOVE. I kid you not. I fucking love it. For example:

He (Holloway) made a frustrated noise. Then he smiled. The expression was a little stiff; he wasn’t used to doing it, and it was another of those things that he was self-conscious about. I’d read about people who get up at two or three in the morning—on vacation, no less, when they’re in Hawaii—and then they drive hours and hours, and all of it is to see the sunrise from this one specific spot, and I thought, Come to Utah if you want something worth your time.

For context, they are in Utah. Jack basically implies that H's smile is prettier than sunrise goddamn it!

6) Jack is basically 90% of Holloway's impulse control. And that's saying something since Jack doesn't even have an impulse control himself. He'll be like "you need to eat, H" and "when is the last time you sleep, H?"and "how much of Addie did you take?" And all that stuff but the next scene show Jack literally smashed at a party and almost got beaten up.

7) Jack's narrative is the funniest, I swear

Detective Rivera, one of the Utah County Sheriff’s Department’s finest and my personal law-enforcement nemesis (if he could still be a nemesis after he bought me McDonald’s), was sitting on the sofa, sending a message on his phone.

8. Jack is so proud of H whenever he did butchy thing — like, he love his asshole 😭😭

“I’ll tell him it’s a sex thing.” “Good,” Holmes said. “He’ll be pleased that all your hours of mindless pornography are finally paying dividends.” My jaw legit dropped. “H!” “Desk, please.” “That was so amazingly bitchy.” “Desk.” “And, like, also kind of evil. Which I loved.”

9. Are you fucking kidding me?

He sat there in silhouette, head down. I knew the curve of his spine. I knew the span of his shoulders. Anywhere, I thought. I could be anywhere and know you

10. The fact that every single guy in Holmes' life let him down and hurt him one way or another and Jack is the only one who cherished him 😭😭

[llawlieta]

Sweet lil Lau Lau may I please have 23 and 25 for the fandom ask game? 16 also made me think of you but you already answered it, so no worries if you don't want to again 🧡

Hi hi hi!!!!

23. the fandom you’re curious about because of a mutual

HMM. I have gotten very curious about the iwtv show from many people I follow, and I definitely want to watch it one day, but the gears haven't turned just right in my brain yet! I'm also curious about a lot of videogames but they often... do cost money... Also I'm particularly curious about bg3 but I get motion sickness with certain videogames and I kind of feel like that would be one of them. I can't be sure but I'm pre-mourning it. Oh well I'm bad at that kind of videogame anyway so WHATEVER... [kicks a rock]

25. a piece of advice for taking care of yourself in fandom spaces

Death Note is the first fandom I've been truly immersed in and it's made me learn to block people more liberally. I used to be kind of afraid of doing it because it felt rude and I am a fragile little flower I guess but now I block people whose, like, ultimately inconsequential opinion pisses me off in a certain way. I also used to feel bad about filtering tags for things I don't like, even skjskfj Now I've got like 6+ variations of the same tag filtered for a super specific fandom thing and I live a happier life for it. The basic tips that everyone but me seemed to already have interiorized, basically!!! But sometimes I see people get really mad in a way that would suggest they may need to either block someone or filter out a couple tags.

Oh, speaking of getting mad. For ME personally it is self-care to get mad privately with my friends instead of out in the open. I'm not gonna lie I do love when someone is brave enough to make an angry little post about a thing I secretly agree with or whatever BUT I still think it's better to keep your petty anger (which is FINE, we're all petty) to yourself and your circle of friends. It is taking care of yourself and others and your public online space and your mindset and the attitude with which you approach fandom. To Me.

Also assuming good faith is also good to ensure your mindset is not negative 24/7... Like imagine that stupid ass take wasn't written by an actively malicious person but instead by, say, someone you could be friends with in another life who simply worded something weirdly or a bit aggressively or just didn't have the same information about a certain canon detail that you have or whatever. Sometimes people are actively malicious... But sometimes they aren't!!

And I'll answer 16 again with another little thing!!

16. a tiny detail in canon that you want more people to appreciate

I think every interaction between L and Aizawa is very interesting and fun to watch!! Underrated!