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spadesolace · 1 year ago

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feel special - im nayeon x producer! reader

synopsis: in the midst of thousands of faces trying their best to capture a certain bunny’s heart. you were the only person who captured her attention through your skills in music, to capturing her heart with your very own heart.

spade speaks: nayeon is actually my ult bias (along with yeji) who made me stick around and listen to k-pop. on top of this, feel special being my fave album for various reasons. happy very belated birthday to my fave album and to my fave bunny!

if there was one thing you know about nayeon, is that she prefers the quiet and serene moments of being alone, watching some show on tv, and having kookeu by her side.

nothing beats that.

yes, she loves her members, they’re her second family but living with 8 girls for 3 years then moving to a bigger place with 2 roommates, she still chose to stay in her room. then you arrived.

you were no one in the midst of hundreds of producers wanting to work with the group, to say the least, maybe it was fate that made you two meet. jyp did in fact introduce you two, from working with their twicetagram album to becoming a constant producer in various b-sides.

im nayeon, who’s voice is as sweet as honey, one to bring you comfort, and overall just bring a smile to your face.

before her, solitude was in your studio with your dog who would keep you company as you vibe to music you’ve produced. your place was never quiet, there was always some sort of music playing in the background, and twice became a constant to your playlist. a part of you immediately would distinguish nayeon’s voice in every twice song, maybe it was because she’s your bias.

a little part of you wanted to get to know her, not just as colleagues, but as friends.

it started small, from bringing her drinks so as to not make her throat dry from singing for hours. visiting her after practice just to hear her talk about her day, from overall just being there.

it didn’t take long for you to ask nayeon out on a proper date, similar to the ones you’ve been doing for months. this time, there was an actual label to it, not simply a hang out to talk about each other’s day. it wasn’t much, you just invited her to your place where you cooked dinner, hearing her talk about digesting oil as there are benefits to it, having kookeu and your dog play around as you two played board games to kart rider.

“no, i don’t see any benefits in consuming oil aside from getting sick.” the debate was still on-going as the game went on, you were leading with nayeon barely catching up.

“it’s tasty and consuming oily food would get you sick.”

“eating straight up oil is worse, nabong.” who knew you would fall for this girl who eats oil.

your date was a complete success, having to cuddle with nayeon as you watched carol. bringing her back to the dorm was bittersweet, a part of you didn’t want it to end but clearly, nayeon had different plans. watching her about to leave your car, she looked back at you, a smile evident on her face.

“i’ll plan the next one.” a kiss on the cheek was all it took just for her to have your heart.

one date turned to two, then three, then it became weekly.

there was not a time that you two weren’t together. her free time was spent in your studio as you two made songs together that the world would not get the chance to hear. having the chance to hear you sing behind closed doors, persuading you into posting it on your socials. it didn’t take long for that snippet to go viral.

every love story had to start somewhere and yours was about work. from listening to her sing her parts in sweet talker, helping with their japanese album, do the remix for their concert, and overall just admire the girl.

at the very same studio you two first met; you had finally called nayeon yours.

nayeon’s idea of solitude changed from the day she met you. it was no longer being stuck in her room scrolling on her phone or watching a random series or movie on the tv with kookeu. it was now with you, in the comfort of your home where she could be alone… with you.

when their tour started, slowly your time together faded. nayeon was busy and all you could do was consider the situation, the girls are still at their peak and you were merely there to help them out. she still used her free time with you when she’s back in korea, talking about the tour and how fun it was but she wished you could be there to watch them. you did, yet it was only the first day at seoul. so, when their manager had given you a ticket to their manila concert, you immediately took it, letting their management know that you wanted to surprise the girls.

when your girlfriend was busy doing the concert, you watched with keen eyes on how the group you’ve adored since debut to working with them and now, dating the girl of your dreams, felt too surreal. too surreal.

that’s where your thoughts left you with, would nayeon get tired of you? would she pick her career over you? until when will she settle for you and realize she deserves better?

ironic how you’re watching her perform with the loudest crowd there is to date, and you’re overthinking your relationship with who you consider the girl of your dreams… you fear waking up from this dream and return to reality with nothing but disappointment waiting for you. but this is reality. she’s your girlfriend, nayeon is and will be proud to call you hers as you call her mine.

“y/n? you ok?” their manager looked at you as the show finally ended, watching the crowd leave the venue. everything feels gloomy, tiring, anxious would be the better option to describe your state.

“yeah, just tired.” it may have been unnoticed by the manager that you were lying but clearly one nayeon saw you with the same smile you give her but with eyes calling for help, she knows something is wrong.

nothing goes past nayeon, especially when it comes to you. the thing is that she knows not to ask until you feel ready… but whatever is running in your mind makes her worried. you’re one for open communication, she knows this as your colleague and girlfriend, not once did you not voice out your concern for anything. what’s stopping you now?

maybe it was the fact that your best friend, mina, is telling you how much she needs to keep going. she has to, as she would say. you knew of her state for quite a while now, but there was something after their manila concert that just made her break. you were at the manila concert, the way mina was struggling, oh you can never tell your best friend what you’ve been thinking when she needs you the most.

nayeon watched your interaction with mina, she knows well enough how deep your friendship goes but she can’t merely just watch how you were also distancing yourself from her. not when there is clearly something going on inside your mind that you can’t seem to hide anymore. that’s where it started, the sad songs, how you’re writing ballads rather than your usual upbeat music that most of their songs are about. even when mina is already in hiatus and planning to go home for a bit as to recharge and be under the care of her family. you were lost, gone, mind running with the possibility of nayeon leaving you as if you’re not doing it yourself.

that was a toxic defense mechanism, one that you’ve done multiple times. if it weren’t for jihyo’s stubbornness, you would have continued avoiding nayeon.

in your studio where everything is normally organized was a complete mess, jihyo took notice of your eyebags, the amount of takeout containers. the sleep deprivation and the lack of sunlight was getting to you. phone on do not disturb as you avoid replying to nayeon or just sending cold replies, everything is out of place. slowly, jihyo took care of you, cleaning the studio while you finally slept. that was where she took notice of the little things, how you and mina had been talking, keeping your best friend company who was back in her home country, while she was clueless to how you were overanalyzing your relationship with nayeon and how mina being on break took a mental toll on you.

“you can’t keep running away from her. not when she also needs you right now.” jihyo has always been right, the girls have had quite a hard hit when mina went on hiatus, some of which were scared of what the future holds and nayeon was handling it quite poorly.

“jihyo, she’ll realize that she deserves someone better, and it’s not gonna be me.”

“she needs you, y/n. you’re the best thing that has happened to her and you can’t just decide on what’s better for her when you haven’t told her what you’re going through.”

while jihyo took care of you, slowly making sure you were properly talking to nayeon as she set up a schedule with your personal psychiatrist. slowly you were back on track. therapy was an eye opener, how you’re the one ruining the relationship for not knowing how to communicate your concerns because you deem it to be childish.

if it weren’t for jihyo, things would have been different. you wouldn’t be in front of nayeon’s dorm holding a bouquet and a bag filled with her comfort food. you wouldn’t be crying in front of your girlfriend as you told her every single thought. you wouldn’t be able to call her yours as she gave you reassurance that you’re the best thing that has ever happened to her.

“you’re so dumb thinking that i’ll leave you.”

“i know, it’s just that- you’re literally a superstar with everyone falling for your charms, how can i not think of that?”

they say fear attracts.

in nayeon’s eyes, the idea of losing you was the last thing on her mind. that if you were gone, she’d prefer to stop being an idol and try her best to have you back. losing you is one of her biggest fears along with losing her members. when one of her greatest fears (mina going on hiatus) was close to becoming reality, she needed you. she wanted you to know that she needs you the same way that you need her. if fear would be the reason for your breakup, nayeon has every right to call you dumb; you love her yet you won’t fight for her?

solitude for you has and will always be nayeon, losing that would result in chaos, disruption of your peace. you can live without music but without nayeon in your life, without the girl who you tried to push away and yet she still stayed, it would be stupid of you to let her go.

when things have been settled, and jyp asking for your help in producing two of their b-sides, you couldn’t say no to what the message of the album was. having to perfectly encapsulate your thoughts and emotions along with the group’s own thoughts being let out. aside from the chance to work with your best friend and girlfriend; feel special holds a place in your heart.

even when the world becomes dark and you’re consumed by your thoughts, you’re reminded that nayeon is there for you, that she has the patience to understand what is happening inside your brain.

so when her birthday is a few days away, you wanted to surprise her. something that screams that i’m glad to have you in my life. and no, an engagement ring would be too early in your relationship of around 5 months. what better way than to spend the entire day or at least an hour together as she prepares for their comeback the following day.

in some world, or way, you’re back to how you first started, admiring the girls as you make a name in the industry. nayeon shines on stage and it has been like that for years. even when the pandemic hit and you could only talk virtually until things lightened up. in every song she writes, you were a part of it, and when her solo debut was on the works, one call away and you’ll produce half of it.

to nayeon, you’re every song she’s written, every song she covers, and a vital piece to her everyday life.

to you, nayeon is your solitude, baby blue love, and your everything.

“happy birthday, love.” you wave your candybong with the crowd singing happy birthday to nayeon, and in the midst of the crowd, her eyes are set only to you.

#twice scenarios #twice imagines #twice #twice x reader #twice nayeon #nayeon #twice x you #im nayeon #nayeon imagines #nayeon scenarios #nayeon x reader

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amayaonly1 · 3 months ago

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Verses Unwritten: A Rap Odyssey

Eminem x Rapper!OC

Verse 1

About: When a call from Dr. Dre brings a bold proposition to work with Eminem on his comeback album, Genji - a Japanese rap legend known for her underground roots - faces a new challenge that could shake the music world. Will she embrace the chaos, or is this collaboration too much even for her?

A/N: It all started with a trip down memory lane of 2000's hip hop. Then after listening to a few of Eminem's old songs, I went down the rabbit hole of his newer songs. And yeah... here we are. Anyway, hope you enjoy the first chapter of this series. :) *Italics: Speaking in Japanese

Disclaimer: This work is a work of fiction, and any involvement of the character Genji is purely fictional and not representative of any real person.

She reached for the red button, pressing it down before leaning into the microphone. A small smile tugged at her lips. "What do you think?" Her breathy Tokyo accent crackled through the speakers in the recording booth.

Takahiro let out an enthusiastic grunt, his smile beaming as he adjusted one earcup of his headpones. He leaned slightly over the music stand where a printout of the lyrics was clipped while a wooden pencil rested on the base on standby.

"You've really outdone yourself, Miss Genji," he praised. "It's just the first chorus and already I can tell it's going to be a hit."

"Thanks," the said woman sheepishly responded, nodding curtly. She kept her finger on the button, asking, "Would you like to go over the song again or...?"

"I think I'll run through the song on my own just in case, and then we continue with the recording?" he proposed.

"Sounds good." Genji spun in her chair slightly and turned to the production crew behind her. "Take a five-minute breather, everyone!"

"Okay!" the team chorused back.

The lull set in immediately, footsteps thudding as some wandered off towards the toilets or the pantry. Songwriters sitting on the leather sofa at the back of the room huddled around the coffee table, replaying the instrumental with their own printed copies of the lyrics. But none of it distracted the long, dark brown-haired woman, who leaned back in her swivel chair, thumbing through the scrawled pages of her B4-sized notebook. At the top of the page, written in her quick, messy pencil strokes were the words "ふたつの唇 (Futatsu no Kuchibiru; Two Lips)".

She'd known what sort of attention she'd been bringing to herself the moment she thought of collaborating with- or rather, writing a song for a boy band; if not, one of Japan's most famous boy bands. But trending on Twitter for a fortnight straight? Never once in her career did she see that coming.

Genji Drops the Mic… for Love? EXILE Collaboration Rumoured From street battles to heartbeats, fans react to the unexpected pairing.

popqueen_kiko Wait, Genji’s going soft? Where's the aggression? Where's the flow? …but also, I need to hear this immediately. 😂💕 genji_forever First a love song, then what? Genji in a music video doing EXILE's dance moves? I would sell my house to see that. 🕺🔥 lyricalSamurai When a rap legend like Genji picks up a pen for EXILE… legends support legends, people. Respect the art. 🔥🎤 hiroshi_inoue Genji writing about love is more shocking than my dad saying he loves me. Still, I’ll listen. 😂🎧 #EXILE #RapLegend

Genji laughed softly at the memory, the corner of her mouth quirking up. At least she got a good laugh.

She was barely halfway through the second hook when she felt her bag vibrating against her chair. With her gaze still fixated on the notebook, she reached behind, rummaging through the contents of her bag until she fished out her rose gold D905i. One tap on a button, and she placed it close to her ear.

"Hello?"

"Good afternoon, Miss Genji!" came a familiar cheery voice. "I truly apologise for the inconvenience."

The said woman's lips twitched upward in recognition. She needed not to ask who it was, nor did she need to check the caller ID, considering she greeted the receptionist every time she arrived and left work. "No worries. We just happen to be on our break. Is there anything you need from me?"

"There is a man who wishes to speak to you in person."

Genji blinked. Had she been so engrossed in recording that she forgot something important? "A man? Does he have an appointment?"

"No, he doesn't. His translator relayed he said that he'll meet you in California? I'm not sure what he means... Should I send him away or…?"

Genji let out a chuckle. There's only one person in her life- or rather, in this world, who'd say that to her.

"No, no. Tell him to meet me in the lounge. I'll be there shortly."

"Understood, I'll let him know."

The call ended with a soft click. Sliding the phone back into her bag, Genji stood and stretched, tugging the sleeves of her oversized grey hoodie down over her knuckles.

"Hey, Atsushi," she called out.

The said man, adorning a pair of sunglasses, looked up immediately. Lifting his headphones, he responded, "Yes?"

"I have a surprise visitor waiting for me." She tugged the drawstrings before swinging the navy blue back onto her shoulder. "I'm not sure how long it'll take, so I'll need you to help me with the recording."

"That sounds like a lot of pressure already, Miss Genji," joked the lead vocalist. "I'm touched that you have this much trust in me."

Genji let out an amused chuckle, grinning at him. "Of course. You know your group's music style best. I might be able to provide the song, but how much it fits EXILE is up to you and the others." She pulled the strings and slung her bag on her shoulders. "I'll see you all later."

Giving them a wave, she walked briskly to the silver elevator waiting at the end of the hall. She pressed the down button, and the doors opened, welcoming her as she stepped inside. Pulling out a white access card from her left jeans pocket, she tapped it against the panel and selected the second floor. The doors slid shut with a soft hiss, sealing her inside as it slowly descended.

Her reflection stared back at her from the polished steel walls. Genji tugged at the hem of her hoodie absently, a small smile pulling at her lips.

"'California', huh? Let’s see what you've got to say this time."

Ding!

As the elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, Genji stepped onto the polished wooden floor, her eyes instinctively scanning the space. The vibrant contrast of teal chairs and the striking red bench caught her attention, but it's the familiar face in the softly lit room that drew her forward. Spotting the man wearing his signature leather jacket seated near the far table beneath the pendant light, she felt the corner of her lips lifted into a smile as she approached him, the subtle squeaks of her green CALIFORNIA 78 muffled by the herringbone floor.

The man looked up, his smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Well, well. I knew I'd find you out here running things, but damn, Gen. You haven't aged a day."

The said woman raised a brow. "Is that what you say to all the legends you track down, Dre?" she teased. "Or am I special?”

He chuckled, rising to his feet. "Oh, you're special, aight. C'mere."

She didn't hesitate, letting him pull her into a brief but warm hug. His cologne, sharp and familiar, triggered a rush of memories. Late nights in the studio, Tupac's infectious laugh, hip hop beats pounding through the walls of the recording booth; how she longed to return to those days.

Pulling back, Genji looked at him. "You still look the same -except maybe with fewer hours of sleep."

"Studio life will do that to you," he replied with a wide grin. "Ya know how that is." He motioned to the seat across from him, and she dropped onto the chair, leaning back with a casual ease. "You still in Japan, huh? I heard your name floating around again. Writing love songs for boy bands now?"

She let out a mock groan. "You actually saw the headlines? Didn't think it'd reach all the way to America..."

"Oh, I've seen 'em." Dre chuckled, settling back into his seat. "'Genji Goes Soft.' You've got the whole internet losing their minds."

"I thought they'd grow out of it by now," she muttered, though her smile gave away her amusement. "I can't even write a ballad without people acting like I’ve betrayed hip-hop."

He shook his head, an impressed look on his face. "You always kept 'em on their toes. That's what I've always liked about you since back in the day - unpredictable, always stirrin' shit up that turned out to be dope hits. Speaking of-" He paused, leaning forward slightly. "You remember our song, right?"

"How could I forget?" she replied, her tone softening. "What was supposed to be the worst year for me ended up becoming some of the best days of my life. You, Pac… the energy was just unreal."

His gaze turned thoughtful, his voice quieter. "Yeah. Pac really brought out something special in all of us, didn't he? I still think about that sometimes."

The woman across him nodded, a beat of silence hanging between them, heavy but not uncomfortable. Finally, she smirked to lighten the mood. "And you brought me in to do all the dirty work on the arrangements. You know you owe me."

"Please," he scoffed, grinning back. "You loved every second of it."

"Maybe," she admitted with a sly shrug. "But you still owe me."

He laughed, the sound deep and genuine, before his expression turned serious. "Listen. Part of the reason I wanted to track you down is because I've got something big in the works. You heard about Eminem, right?"

"Of course." Genji sat up straighter. "I'm aware that he's been laying low for a few years now. What about him?"

Dre's eyes gleamed with excitement. "He's making a comeback. The album's called "Relapse". We're still in production, though."

"So Slim Shady's back in business, huh? I can imagine the world getting set on fire."

"Exactly," Dre affirmed, leaning forward. "I'm pulling out all the stops for this one, and it got me thinking… You and Em could make something nobody's ever heard before."

Genji blinked, processing his words. "You're kidding, right? The internet's still recovering from me writing a love song for a boy band. Imagine how they'd react to this."

"Let 'em talk," he shot back, smirking knowingly. "That's what happens when you rewrite the rules, Gen. And you've always rewritten the rules."

She narrowed her eyes at him, lips twitching into a half-smile. "And you want me to bring those rules to Eminem? Slim Shady and my production in the same room?"

"That's what makes it perfect. I'm talking your beats and Em's words tearing through 'em, a sound that could hit harder than anything they've heard in years."

Genji's half-smile returned, though her eyes narrowed with scepticism. "You're dangerous, Dre. Y'know that?"

"Comes with the territory," he replied smoothly. "But I mean it. You've been pushing boundaries your whole career. Why stop now?" Standing up, he extended a hand, pushing for one last time, "What say you?"

Genji stared at his hand for a moment, the weight of the challenge settling in her chest. Slowly, she reached out and clasped it, a spark of that old fire dancing behind her eyes. "Aight, I'll think about it. But I'm warning you - if I burn down the internet again, it's on you."

"Trust me, I've got a fire extinguisher ready." Dre grinned, clearly satisfied. "Now let's grab coffee. I need to know how my Gen ended up doing love drops for a boy band."

The said woman sighed, trailing after him toward the elevator. "You never let me live anything down, do you?"

"Never," he shot back with a hearty laugh. "Besides, you owe me. 'California Love', remember?"

She threw him a sideways glance with a teasing smirk. "Owe you? Please. You still owe me for making that beat hotter than the California sun. If I wasn't humble, I'd be charging you interest by now."

Dre burst out laughing, shaking his head. "Man, it's good to have you back."

#eminem #eminem imagine #eminem fanfiction #eminem fluff #eminem x reader

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1d1195 · 2 years ago

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Committed II

Read the first part here

(I'm sorry it's gonna have to be three parts at this rate)

“Hi, kitten,” his voice vibrated in his chest and through her body.

“Hi Harry,” she whispered.

“Missed me?” He hummed to the top of her hair.

“A little,” she muttered. He chuckled.

She had heard Harry sing for almost her whole life—since she had met him when she moved to England and started primary school the same year as he did. Harry’s voice was like a lullaby—her suggestion to record covers was joke, but she was grateful all the same. But there was no greater music than Harry laughing in her ear.

On the days where they weren’t getting ready for a show, she was working her day job; managing a local music store—anything to get into the business of making Harry’s dreams come true. Harry often meandered there on his lunch break to look over albums and sit while she organized shelves and chatted with customers.

As much as Harry liked the idea of becoming part of a big-time band, he didn’t really mind if he didn’t. He was content working at a club when he wasn’t playing in the band. One day he planned to own his own club and play as much as possible. He loved music and loved the idea of supporting small town bands like his. And honestly, he always imagined owning it with his best friend in the world.

She was walking toward another shelf to organized it while Harry mindlessly flipped through new album titles on old vinyl. Harry was in awe of how his generation and the one after him were moving toward such vintage ideals, he liked the feel of records again. But mostly, He liked seeing her in her element among the songs and titles.

As she walked over, Harry called a quiet “Hey,” and tossed a French fry in her direction at the same time. Without even a break in her step, she turned her face just as he threw it, the fry bounced off half her cheek and she managed to snag the other half with her tongue. He chuckled as she winked at him. It was moments like these that Harry thought about Niall saying she would be insane not to take the internship. More so when she said she should be committed then, because she wouldn’t be taking it.

Because the only thing Harry could think about was how he would have to be committed if she did take it.

The idea of not seeing her every day and hearing her laugh made his chest ache for something he shouldn’t even be aching about. She was right there. Just a shelf away from him. Her eyes scanning titles of albums to make sure they were in the right order. Humming to the music that played (her choice of course).

“I think you should record,” she said.

It came up every so often. Usually when one of the songs Harry covered played over the speakers filling the room with sweet melodies that she loved so much. It was part of the reason Harry did all the covers. Why he was so insistent the band learn the old songs and obscure songs that they wouldn’t have normally played. Whatever she loved was fine by him because there wasn’t a song as sweet as her happiness.

She had a lot of favorite songs, and as such, so did Harry.

“We can’t jus’ record covers, kitten.”

She rolled her eyes. “There are cover bands, Harry,” she reminded him.

“I know, m’love,” he chuckled. “But...I want t’record m’own music.”

“Well, you can do that too...I just think you sing this song better than original and I’d like to have it recorded so I can fall asleep listening to it.”

Shaking his head as he popped another fry into his mouth he thought about her suggestion. He liked the idea that his voice would be the last thing she heard before she fell asleep. “Maybe if y’take this internship, I’ll record us...a going away present,” he suggested.

Her organization of the shelf came to an abrupt halt. Her eyes locked with the album titles, and she then slowly closed them. “Very funny,” she muttered.

“Kitten—”

“Don’t. Just don’t, Harry. You’re supposed to be on my side.”

He was quiet for a few moments as he pondered the notion that she wouldn’t leave because of him. Mitch couldn’t be right. That would be insane. There was no way she would give up an incredible opportunity like this...for Harry. “M’always on your side, love,” he said softly. He didn’t want to upset her, and he could see the way her jaw locked tensely as he started to speak again. It was like she was on the defensive. But Harry could also see the way her eyes started to water. “S’why I think y’should go,” he told her. As much as he didn’t want her to be so far away... “I...I would come visit,” he promised. “S’only a year,” he reminded her. “We could FaceTime all the time.”

She didn’t speak for a moment. “A lot can change in a year,” she whispered quietly so the sadness in her voice couldn’t reach his ears.

But it was her, so he heard it anyway. “Not us.” Harry watched a tear roll down her cheek and she caught it with the back of her hand before Harry could make a big deal of it. “Jus’ think ‘bout it,” he said. “Don’t say no yet,” he murmured and stood from his stool, another French fry between his fingers as he walked closer to her. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders, gave her a squeeze with a kiss to the top of her head. He held the fry to her lips, and she bit it, despite not feeling in a playful mood.

“Okay,” she said and wrapped her arms around Harry’s waist tucking herself into his chest and Harry wished with everything in him that it didn’t feel like goodbye.

When they caught up at home, Harry would sit with her legs draped over his lap a book in between her hands and he would play a video game with Mitch or just watch a show while she read. They looked like a couple. Acted like a couple. “Do you want Mexican or Italian?” She asked randomly as her eyes scanned her book.

He glanced from his game to catch her concentrated expression and he just wanted to kiss her sweet face for the rest of his life. “We haven’t had Italian in a while, yeah?” He murmured.

They certainly sounded like an old married couple.

“Mmm,” she hummed. “Can you pick it up?” She smiled impishly.

“Ugh...” he groaned. “I got it last time!”

“But I don’t wanna,” she whined.

Harry would slice his arm off at the elbow if she asked. Even if her dramatic whine was all fake, he would do anything for her to appease her. Smirking he sighed just as dramatically as she whined. “Oh alright.”

“I’m so lucky to have a best friend like you. Thank God, I sat next to you on the bus,” she giggled. Harry smirked gently tossing her legs off his lap. “Gah!” She gasped. “No wait! Never mind! Let’s get pizza or something else delivered.” He chuckled.

“S’matter, love?”

“I was so comfy,” she frowned and pouted petulantly. Harry couldn’t believe how cute she looked. He thought his heart would ooze right out of his body and melt at his feet. How could she not know how much he adored her?

“Aw, kitten,” he cooed at her and pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “I’ll be right back...actually, can I get it on your phone? Mine is dead from—” He grabbed it off the coffee table and started to unlock it with her passcode when a message popped up from a guy’s name he didn’t recognize. He felt his eyebrows pinch together in confusion. Her mouth fell open because even though Harry didn’t know what was going on, she definitely did. “Who’s this?” He asked.

“Uh...remember the night I fell at the club?”

“Yeah...”

“This guy started chatting with me in the crowd when I left backstage.”

Harry remembered the guy almost instantly. He hadn’t thought to think about him because all he could think about was her safety, her head injury, and how scared he was that night. Any thought of inquiring about the man that caught her attention was lost in the shuffle of more pressing matters. And Harry couldn’t believe he forgot about it—especially now, seeing his name on her phone. “Oh.”

“He’s nice,” she said quietly. “He wants to get coffee sometime.”

Harry nodded and moved to her internet browser so he could look up the Italian restaurant. He was glad he was going to get the food now. It gave him time to collect his thoughts. “That’s nice,” he said absentmindedly.

She hated when he was grumpy. “Are you mad?”

“Y’didn’t mention him...s’been almost a month.”

“Wasn’t really anything to tell you.”

He nodded ordering her favorite without asking. He didn’t need to. Smugly, he thought the guy at the other end of her phone wouldn’t know what her favorite meal was without asking. He’d have to find out and that made Harry happy. The guy in question was good looking and he obviously had good taste if he had eyes for the sweet girl sitting beside him. He remembered in the moment how mad he was that someone was chatting her up and making her cheeks turn pink. Harry wanted to throw her phone in the toilet and flush it before she could answer him. “Okay,” he said but he sounded irritated, and she knew he was.

“Harry?” She asked as he started for the door to put his shoes on.

“Yeah, love?” His sour mood shrinking as he distanced himself from the offensive text messages.

“I wouldn’t go out with a guy without telling you about him,” she promised. “Someone has to make sure I’m not kidnapped or murdered.”

Harry wished he could have just said what he was thinking. But instead, he smiled and shook his head. “You sweet girl, anyone that kidnapped you, would bring y’back t’me after ten minutes,” he winked exiting before she had time to argue.

“I resent that!” He heard her call through the door.

*Three Months Later*

It took a lot of convincing, a lot of packing, and a lot of reassurance that she could go, and it would be okay.

Harry was the one that took her to the airport. Her mom knew how important it was to give them a chance to say their goodbyes alone, without an audience of people they knew. Besides, her mom had always wanted to see the states. She would visit in no time. They didn’t chat while Harry walked her bags through security check, and he pressed a hand to her back when the crowd got too large. She was so completely comforted by his touch it melted her like nothing she’d ever felt before.

But when Harry heard her sniffle, he knew he was done for. “Oh, don’t start, kitten. I won’t be able t’stop if y’start,” he chuckled sadly, and tears filled his vision.

She sniffled around a choked off, giggly breath. “M’sorry.” He stopped in his tracks and wrapped his arms around her tightly clutching her to his chest. He kissed the top of her head as she shook with silent sobs. Harry swallowed around the emotion in his throat trying to be brave for her. But he couldn’t help but worry about all that could happen in a year. As much as he didn’t want it to.

After a few minutes her tears, they continued walking to her gate. Harry held her hand and it felt like they were a couple. It always did, but there was something about this...this moment that felt so different. “You can’t get a new best friend while I’m gone,” she blurted. “Maybe Niall can be your new best friend or Mitch...maybe even Sarah, but that’s it. Definitely, no new girl ones.”

“Kitten, I couldn’t dream of replacing you,” he promised. As easy as it would have been to roll his eyes at the prospect, he refrained. He meant each word. There was no replacing her. When she got back, Harry would still be there waiting for her. She noticed how there wasn’t even a smile at her near crazy outburst. He didn’t even laugh at the idea of it all. “We’re going t’talk every day,” he assured her.

She felt like someone was ripping her heart out piece by piece right through her chest. She should just say it. Tell him. He probably knew she was in love with him. It was kind of him to remain best friends even when she was infatuated with him. There were so many options for him...and without her around to be in the way...

God, a year seemed like forever. “Yeah?” She asked meekly.

“No...you’re the only one I need, love.” She wished with everything in her Harry meant those words. “I’ll see y’before y’know it,” he said.

“Don’t,” she sniffled.

“I know,” he said and looked at the floor. “I got y’something,” he mumbled.

She looked up at him. She wished she wasn’t crying so much because Harry was too beautiful to be blurred by tears and it was going to be the last time, he saw her for a good long while. “Why?” She asked.

He rolled his eyes and chuckled. “You’re something else, love.” Reaching in his pocket he procured a flash drive and placed it in her palm. “For when y’fall asleep.” It took a moment for the words to process. But once they did her jaw nearly unhinged, and she wished she could have been more put together in that moment but instead she threw herself into his embrace and held onto him like he was a life raft.

Part of her believed he really was a life raft in more ways than one. She was certain that if it weren’t for the scheduled flight, she might have drowned the two of them with her tears.

As soon as she landed, Harry was the first one she texted.

I’ve arrived.

Good. Now s’only 179 days till I visit. :)

After she called her mom and showed off her new little place, she FaceTimed Harry, of course. She knew it was late there, but he answered on the first ring. “Hey,” she said softly.

“Hey, love,” he smiled sleepily. “Show me around,” he hummed.

“No...it’s late. I just...wanted to say goodnight to you.”

“No, show me,” he pressed. “M’not tired.”

She could see the way his eyes drooped, and she would have given anything to coerce his tall and lanky frame to bed. This would be the longest six months of her life. “I’ll show you tomorrow. I’m pretty jet lagged myself,” she said.

He nodded. He really would have stayed up. Harry would have asked questions. But he was glad he wouldn’t have to. “Oh...okay, love. Did y’listen yet?”

“No,” she said and pulled her laptop from her bag. “I will now,” she smiled. “Good night, Harry.”

“Good night, love,” he murmured. As she was about to end the call, she waved but he stopped her. “Wait,” he said suddenly. She paused and he smiled gently. “I love you, kitten. Miss you already,” he said sweetly.

Her heart thudded loudly throughout her body. “I love you too,” she whispered.

But she wondered if he knew she meant it from six thousand miles away.

She wondered if Harry thought about her as often as she thought about him. It was evening time for her, and Harry was probably (hopefully) sleeping. She knew if she called him, he would wake to the sound of her ringtone. She would tell him how much she missed him, and he would be alert and awake before the sun was even up.

So, she stared silently out the window of the tall building she was living in on her own, trying not to think about her best friend half a world away. She tried not to think about how his life was very much the same and hers was not. It’s not like she could date anyone even if she wanted to—she was only state side for another six months and then she would be back to pining for Harry. Hoping and praying that they would just be.

Sarah called frequently and kept her updated on how Harry was actually doing. “His mind is everywhere...well not really. All he thinks about is you; but it really clouds his judgment and vision and everything,” she snickered. “We all miss you a lot.”

“I really miss you guys. This is an amazing opportunity and I’m glad, I guess,” she giggled. “That you made me go,” she rolled her eyes.

“My pleasure,” Sarah flipped her hair with a proud smile on her face. “So how are the guys?” She asked with a wiggling eyebrow.

“Oh...” she snorted. “That’s a no from me,” she told her. “There’s no point at all,” she explained.

“Plus, your betrothed would lose it,” she amended. “I heard something, somewhere, that even if you don’t eat, you can appreciate the menu,” she giggled. “So, tell me what they’re like.”

“What do you mean betrothed?” She rolled her eyes.

“Love, please don’t be silly,” Sarah sighed. “Harry would go out of his mind.” She looked at Sarah through the camera and stared at her. “You can’t be serious. If you met a guy in the States, Harry would go out of his mind. He’d spiral that you’ll never come back,” she explained. “You obviously know this.”

“No, I don’t obviously know this.”

Sarah was silent for a few moments and they just stared at once another. “Love,” she said so gently. “You have to know you’re both madly in love with each other,” she said.

Swallowing she shook her head. “Sarah, I don’t look like you. I don’t look like any girl Harry has ever dated. I don’t look like the girls that fall in love with him or Niall or even Mitch when you guys play on stage. I’m not...” she felt the pricking of tears burning her eyes. It was hard to have this conversation at all. Having it over Facetime thousands of miles away from her friend was even worse.

“Harry doesn’t love me though,” she said gently. Sarah’s eyebrows pinched together in concern and her lips pressed together. “He’s so entranced by you. I wish you could see the way he lights up when you’re around,” Sarah sounded so sure, so positive. It broke her heart that she couldn’t see how much Harry loved her the way she saw it. “He doesn’t love those girls because they’re not you.”

“But he should,” she whispered.

“Why would he?! He’s your best friend and he adores you. Everything about you. He was so excited for you to get this opportunity as much as he wanted to handcuff you to his side. You—”

“Because I’m not good enough for him,” she said dejectedly.

Sarah was silent again. “What are you talking about?”

“Sarah, he’s perfect,” she said. “He’s beautiful, he’s funny, he’s smart, he’s nice. He is the best person I know and he deserves—”

“He deserves you,” she interrupted. She shook her head sniffling as she thought about all the times she wanted Harry so much and he was always so close but he really, always, so far away.

“I’m not pretty—”

“Love, you’re stunning,” she promised. “You have to believe that. Harry forgets how to speak when you walk in the room...he’s so completely smitten with you.”

She snorted. “Harry forgets how to speak when anyone walks in the room.”

Neither of them spoke for a moment. Just a small sniffle every couple seconds. “Harry has been depressed while you’ve been gone. He’s been dying to come see you. It’s all he can talk about. He doesn’t go out, but he doesn’t even want to go out without you. He plays music, he packs up, he sleeps, and he goes to work. The only time he’s himself is when he chats with you. You are his favorite person; that is more than enough.”

She didn’t respond to Sarah’s claims. “Are you coming to visit?”

Sighing Sarah smiled weakly. “We’re all trying to spread out the visits so as not to overwhelm you but also make it go by faster for us all,” she rolled her eyes. “He may miss you the most, but he’s not the only one. It’s quite testosterone-y around here,” she giggled.

Smiling she nodded. “Yeah, I bet,” she shook her head. “M’sorry to leave you with them all.”

“Oh it’s quite alright. You’ve always been good about reigning in their craziness though. I just don’t have the knack, energy, or patience for it,” she rolled her eyes. “They’re silly boys.”

“That’s for sure. Niall told me he was going to try his hand at your drums.”

“Yeah, he did! I almost murdered him,” she laughed.

She was grateful to not talk about Harry for the rest of the phone call. As much as she probably did want to talk about him. But if she did, she was afraid she would continue crying and crying until it was time for her to go home.

While she loved having everyone visit, of course it was Harry’s visit she was looking forward to the most. (Not that she would tell the others that.) But it was Harry that she was nearly bouncing with excitement in the airport terminal as she waited anxiously for him to appear through the doors of baggage claim ready to tackle him in a hug that she hoped would never end.

“For someone so tall you think I’d find you more easily,” she said to her phone.

He chuckled a bit tiredly. “M’jus’ stuck behind a ton of people, kitten. M’here though. M’looking for your short frame but m’afraid I might miss you.”

“Suddenly I want you to go home.”

“Aw,” he cooed. “Don’t be mean,” he chuckled. “Came all this way,” he reminded her.

She was about to make another slight joke at his expense, but her eye caught his tall frame just as the doors open once more. All at once, she was running.

She dropped her phone into her purse and felt tears prick her eyes and she didn’t even warn him that she saw him, didn’t warn him as she silently flew across the crowd of people. Only stopping when her arms were around his neck, her toes barely touching the floor and nothing ever felt so much like home except for Harry. Stumbling at the sudden mass of energy flying at him, he sighed with relief as his arms wrapped around her. They stood silently, just as they did the last time they were in the airport, her tears silent and few this time as she released a breath she felt like she had been holding since she left.

“Hi, kitten,” his voice vibrated in his chest and through her body.

“Hi Harry,” she whispered.

“Missed me?” He hummed to the top of her hair.

“A little,” she muttered. He chuckled.

But there was no greater music than Harry laughing in her ear.

Harry had the longest visit—staying two weeks in her little place all snuggled up like their little married couple that everyone mistook them for. “M’so happy t’be here,” he said while she poured muffin batter, she just finished mixing into the pan.

“Just for muffins?” She smiled.

With a shake of his head, a sigh, and an eyeroll he thought about shaking her a bit at how silly she was being. “Kitten, ‘ve missed you something awful,” he murmured.

She focused on pouring carefully and not how her stomach fluttered at his words. “I heard,” she said gently. “Moping around?”

“What’s the point in going out if m’best friend isn’t around?” He shrugged.

“So you don’t get all sad and sappy while I’m gone!”

He smiled that beautiful, dimply smile that made her heart skip beats. “Love, m’a mess without y’around t’keep me in line,” he admitted. “Can’t remember ever being apart from you after I met you.

Putting the empty bowl in the sink and the pan in the oven she looked Harry all lanky and beautiful sitting on the stool at the breakfast bar sipping his coffee that she so kindly made for him. All the things that Sarah mentioned ran through her brain. Here he was visiting her so he wouldn’t go crazy for the rest of the year. She thought about all the girls that fawned over him and how pretty they were and how pretty he was.

But she also thought about how he was here. Completely content on being alone in her place or exploring nearby while she was at work. Cooking her dinner and taking her for walks and visiting tourist attractions when she was free.

Hope seemed like the enemy every time she looked in the mirror. Looking at her reflection made her long for a less asymmetrical face. She wished her skin was smoother. And if she looked past her neck, she made herself forget how to breathe without how sad she was and the idea that she would never be good enough for her best friend.

“Hey love, I made reservations for this ramen place, have y’been to it yet?” Hurriedly she left the bathroom with a shake of her head and hurried to find Harry scrolling on his phone, comfortably at home on her couch.

Over the six months she’d been here, she felt the place always seemed a bit empty.

She should have known Harry was the part that was missing.

When Harry left to return home the heartache was nearly as fresh as the last time. But now it felt like a countdown—for as much as she loved the internship, she was excited to go back and get back into her routines and be with her best friend.

The tears continued to roll down her cheeks as she watched Harry cross through security and out of view. “It’s so refreshing to see a couple so committed and in love with each other,” a woman smirked gently at the poor girl sadly gazing longingly after her best friend. She turned to the woman who looked old enough to be her mother.

“Pardon?” She sniffled wiping her cheeks and under her eyes with both hands.

“I’m sorry, not to be intrusive, you just reminded me of my husband and myself years ago,” she said reaching into her purse for a package of tissues and then offered one to the poor sad girl. “In college we spent some time abroad—a year apart from one another each. The longest time we were ever apart.”

“Oh...we’re not...” she sniffled wiping the tissue under her nose. “We’re just friends.”

The woman smirked and shook her head. “Yes. They usually are,” she trailed off and headed toward the security line as well.

Blinking away the final tears and sniffling, she turned on her heel heading back for the warm air outside the airport thinking how there were fewer minutes left until she would see Harry next.

@tiaamberxx

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yourimagines · 1 year ago

Note

Hi!

Can you perhaps write a twenty one pilots one shot. Maybe about their newest song that came out.

I love your work, take care!

I really love their new song, overcompensate.

It’s a short one but I hope this is a good one!

Pressure

* English is not my first language I apologise

* Triggers: Dark, Angsty, Swearing and Fluff

Y/n POV

Tyler was hyped about their newest album coming out soon but he’s also nervous. He’s a perfectionist, he’s never 100% satisfied with his work. Always overthinking, always asking the what if questions. So he was downstairs in his home studio, listening to the album as I was making dinner for us. “Ty? You want some dinner?” I asked him as I stood at the top of the stairs. “Sure.” He answered quietly back. “Okay, I’ll be down in a minute.”

I made him a plate and brought it downstairs to him. He was sitting behind his desk, his headphone covered his left ear. “Here you go handsome.” I placed his plate down on his desk. He turned his head to look up at me and smiles. “Thanks beautiful.” His hand slightly touched my leg. “Are you okay down here?” He nods and turns his head back to the screen. “I’m fine, just making sure the album is finished before we release it.” I gave him a gentle squeeze in his shoulder. “Okay, don’t overthink too much about it.” “I won’t.”

I was tossing around in bed, it was midnight and Tyler was still downstairs. ‘This is not healthy for him.’ I throw my blanket to the side and got out of the bed, I stepped into my slippers and walked downstairs. The house was quiet and dark, the only lights that were on came from his home studio downstairs. “Ty?” I tiredly asked and looked downstairs to look at him. His eyes were glued to his monitor. “Yeah?” He didn’t moved a muscle, like he was possessed by something else. “Are you coming to bed, it’s already past midnight.” He waved his hand and nodded. “Yeah, yeah. I’m coming in a minute.” I rolled my eyes and turned around. “Okay, see you in a minute.” I left him alone again, knowing he isn’t coming to bed anytime soon.

Tyler POV

My mind was running around as my eyes stared at the computer screen. “Still not good enough.” I changed it again and again. As I grew tired, tired from staying awake for so long. My eyes started to burn from all the lights and no sleep, my migraine was back and was hurting my brain as I’m still not satisfied with the results. “It’s always the same fucking shit.” I groaned and took a sip from my water, looking at the files as the words started to change, changing in those dark thoughts I rather not have lingering around in the back of my mind. “I need Josh’s opinion on this.” I tried to shake off those chilling thoughts and tried to block out those voices that were now screaming in my head. I shared the files with him and looked at the clock, 3am. I rubbed my face and leaned back in my chair, still looking at the monitor as the words on the screen started to fade away, feeling all dizzy and a lot of pressure forming in my chest. My phone buzzed, it was Josh sending me a quick message.

Joshua🥁: I will listen to this asap in the morning 😴

Me: need really your opinion on this one 👌🏻

Joshua🥁: Don’t worry, just get some sleep 💤

I sighed and saved my work and turned everything off. I walked back upstairs and checked if everything was closed off and slumped upstairs to our bedroom. Y/n was already sleeping, as she lay on my side of the bed. ‘I’m so blessed to have her in my life.’ I stripped my clothes off and joined her. As soon I lay next to her she moved closer and lay her head against my chest. “Ty?” She tiredly says as I caressed her back. “Yeah it’s me, just go back to sleep.” I kissed her head and she immediately felt asleep again. I stayed awake for a while, looking at the ceiling, as my migraine started to fill my brain with these dark thoughts about life….

I woke up from the morning sun that shines through our window. She was lying against my chest, all wrapped up around me. My hand went carefully towards her face and gently wiped her hair away. ‘Beautiful.’ Her eyelids slightly moved, a small low hum came from her and with that she opened her eyes. “Good morning beautiful.” I said in my morning voice with a small smile on my face. I caressed her cheek and she smiles tiredly at me and nuzzles her head back into my chest. “Good morning handsome.” She mumbled softly against my chest. I wrapped my arms around her and started to rub her back as she started to trace my chest in the morning sunlight shining down on us.

I was downstairs, video calling with Josh. “No, I think it’s good enough, they will love it.” He says as he was eating some breakfast. “I know but I think there is more.” He chuckles and shook his head. “You always say that, believe me it’s good.” I nodded and looked down at my notepad. “You really think so?” I asked him as I was playing with the pen that was laying on my desk, not really feeling sure about it. “Yes I really think so.” I hummed and looked up again. “Okay, then let’s release it.” He nods and gave me a thumbs up. “Let’s do this.” I nodded and saved up our files. “Yeah, let’s do this.” Feeling a bit unsure about this….

——— Release Day Overcompensate ———

Y/N POV

Tyler was nervous again, as their newest song was about to release. “They are so hyped up for this.” Josh said as everyone was hanging around our house. “Are they?” Tyler asked as he looked over at Josh’s phone. “Yes, they can’t wait.” He showed them some comments. Debbie smiled at me as the guys were reading the comments. “They are so cute when they do this.” She says to me. I laughed and nodded. “Yes they are.” Josh was scrolling through the social media apps as Tyler was looking at the reactions. “Can’t wait for them to hear the rest.” He says to Josh. “Me neither.”

The song was released and they were watching the fans react to it. Josh was streaming his phone to the tv, sharing his feed. “They love it.” He says with a smile on his face. Tyler nodded, secretly feeling proud of what they created. “Look at that honey.” Debbie says and wraps her arms around him. “Cool isn’t it.” They were both smiling and pointing some comments out. I lay my head on Tyler’s shoulder. “I’m proud of you.” I said to him as we both were looking at Josh and Debbie who were standing in front of the tv, reading some of the comments out loud. “I know.” He says and grabbed my hand. “This is the last one….” I looked up at him and placed a small kiss on his cheek. “You deserve this my love.” He brought my hand up to his lips and placed a kiss on the back of my hand. “For us.” I smiled and nodded. “For us.”

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drizzleoftherain · 14 days ago

Text

Liturgia

Chapter 3: It’s Become a Habit, a Way to Start the Day

Pairing: Ava Silva & Beatrice

Ao3

Author's note: I have been sent to spread the joy of pop music. There’s a playlist and a mood-board.

The afternoon sun was coming through the studio’s bare windows, the rays of light casting shadows along the carpet. It wasn’t late by any means, but the tilt of the Earth was sure making it seem like it was. Ava sat on a stool with a microphone in front of her. She was in the middle of a recording session with Michael and a couple of other sound engineers.

She didn’t know what kind of musical spirit had taken over her body, but everything was about this song was working out better than expected. It was surprising how quickly this album was taking shape, which spoke for itself, because it had never flowed so easily in the past. She listened to the playback, taken aback with how much her sound had changed. Even her vocal range had shifted to something lower, more powerful and commanding, she still had her trademark falsettos to fall back on, but this was a good different, something she hoped people would also enjoy.

Michael waved to catch her attention as the song ended, pointing at her phone. She slotted the headphones on top of the stand and stepped outside the recording area to retrieve it.

“You’ve received a couple of messages, I didn’t want to interrupt.” Michael sat behind the console next to the other engineers, they were still adding some final mixes to the song.

Fuck, Beatrice. She had meant to reply to the lunch request, but had been too caught up with the song. “Thanks, I’ll just be a few minutes.” She stepped outside the studio, closing the door behind her.

Donatello

[Hey, sorry I didn’t hear back about lunch and just wanted to check that we were still doing that?]

[If not, that’s fine I’ll just grab something after vocal training.]

[I’m so sorry Bea!]

[I promise I didn’t forget about you. The creative juices were flowing and I lost track of time.]

[I’m also very sorry you had to read that. Please ignore the juices flowing.]

The dots appeared and reappeared a few times as Ava waited for a reply. Beatrice seemed to either be writing the world's largest text message or she couldn't decide what to respond.

[That’s okay!]

[I hope everything has been going well at the studio.]

[More than!]

[Are you free now? I’m itching to show the song to someone other than my producer and his minions.]

[I can be persuaded, my couch is very comfortable though.]

[You get to meet Michael Salvius.]

[I’ll be there in twenty.]

Exactly twenty minutes later there was a knock on the studio door. Michael was on his feet first, sliding the door open. Ava watched from behind the glass as the two shook hands and introduced themselves, Michael extended the formality to the others. Beatrice caught her eyes moments later, giving her a small smile.

Ava bounced towards the group. “So, wanna hear it?”

They took a seat while Michael prepped the song for playback.

The song began with a scat on the drums, Ava’s voice sing-talking along. Heavy synthesizers took over the studio speakers, a sound that was strikingly similar to the noise a motorcycle makes when the engine is revved along with drums heavy with intention and rhythm. Beatrice must not have expected this because her eyes became large with astonishment after Ava’s first verse.

Yo soy muy mía, yo me transformo

Una mariposa, yo me transformo

Makeup de drag queen, yo me transformo

Lluvia de estrellas, yo me transformo

The technical engineers discussed amongst each other as the song went on, still mixing and mastering the sound. Beatrice’s mouth was partially open and Ava could tell she was enjoying it as her foot bounced along with the tempo.

Como un pavo real, bebé

La cerilla al quemar, bebé

Tu cara, tu mirá', bebé

Si te vuelvo a besar, bebé

They had reached the stretch of the song that was still unfinished, it was missing something that they still hadn’t quite figured out, but Ava knew to trust the process, it would come to them, there was no reason to rush it. “We’re still thinking about this part, something to get us to the bridge.”

Beatrice was quiet for a second, still taking in the synths and drums as the beat stretched. “The beginning with the scatting, it’s jazz influenced.” She spoke to Ava who nodded, “Why don’t you continue with something improvisational? Stylistic? Only for that section.”

Michael was listening along now too. “Like an entire change of tone?”

Before Beatrice could reply, Ava took her hand, leading her inside the recording area. “Show me.”

“Is the piano ready?” Beatrice pointed while walking to the instrument.

“Yes.”

Beatrice stood before it, her hand hovering above the keys, thinking. “Start from the second verse.” The verse played, and Beatrice played two notes, then a chord, then another two sets of ascending notes, another chord, both incohesive and discordant. Then, she sat and her hands moved across the keys as if it wasn’t the most impressive thing in the world that she had practically improvised a jazz standard with multiple chord changes and tones.

“What the fuck!”

Beatrice was still focused, ignoring Ava’s outburst. “I would increase the tempo of the scatting if you were to do something like this.”

“We’re using exactly that. That’s it.” Ava leaned against the side of the upright piano, “That is if you’re okay with it of course. You’ll get writing credits as well.”

Beatrice was speechless, and her cheeks slightly pink. “I couldn’t. You guys have already done so much and that was like less than ten seconds of work.”

“Oh Beatrice, you beautiful, naive, sophisticated newborn baby, people have done far less for writing credits.” Ava could see Beatrice’s face go from utter confusion to amusement in a span of a second.

“Did you just Parks and Rec. me?”

“Indeed! Ava turned to Michael, “Let’s hear it.”

Once they were all satisfied with the end result and Beatrice’s writing credits were solidified, signed off, and metaphorically stamped, the two women lingered after Michael and his team left for the evening. They both shared the stool in front of the piano where Beatrice had been teaching Ava a few jazz chord progressions, something that had turned out to be more difficult than expected.

“I promise I can play this instrument, you’re just like a crazy piano prodigy,” Ava spoke while messing up the same four chords again.

Beatrice chuckled, raising her hand to hover over Ava’s. She pressed down on Ava’s fingers gently, dragging the hand along the four chords again. “Remember it’s all about spontaneity, even if you mess up just don’t show it, create something else. That’s the point.”

Ava tried again, coming to the same outcome. “You know what, I give up. Maybe jazz isn’t for me.” Beatrice was smirking in a way too smug kinda way and Ava was not having it. “Now, I feel like I need to play something just so you believe me. I can see it on your face. I'm a fraud.”

Beatrice actually snickered at that. “I promise I don’t think you’re a fraud!”

Ava huffed, hands already on the keys. She was going to play something and she was going to play something so well that the stupid smug grin on Beatrice’s face was going to wish it hadn’t presented itself.

The song began softly, just a few notes, and a flourish here and there. Then, the melody slowly became known, the sound took over the dimly lit room. Beatrice listened silently, taking in the soothing tune.

Ava stopped, somewhat shy with the shift in mood. Maybe she should have played something more lively.

“Don’t stop,” Beatrice’s voice was soft. “I love this song.”

Their eyes met briefly, enough for Ava to look down at the keys again, far too bashful. She continued from where she left off, the song reaching the chorus. Then, Beatrice’s calm voice joined harmonising along with the piano.

I go through all this before you wake up

So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you

I go through all this before you wake up

So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you

And somehow to Ava’s credit she kept going, even though all she wanted to do was listen to Beatrice sing.

It's early morning, no one is awake

I'm back at my cliff, still throwing things off

I listen to the sounds they make on their way down

I follow with my eyes till they crash

She joined Beatrice, both singing together.

I imagine what my body would sound like

Slamming against those rocks

And when it lands

Will my eyes be closed or open?

They finished the song together, both their voices blending perfectly. Ava’s voice was slightly higher, contrasting impeccably with Beatrice’s deeper richer one. It was still, so still that they could hear the last of the faint vibrations of the piano’s strings.

Ava was the first to speak. “So, Björk.”

“Björk.” Beatrice’s head was bowed, her eyes shifting along the keys. “What beautiful morbidity.”

“You know, I never understood how people could misjudge that song. Always just lingering on the suicidal ideation.”

Beatrice‘s eyes were on her, “But it’s really about casting away your negativity, the fear of whatever comes next.”

“Well, yes there’s that but also not carrying everything on your own. It’s allowing yourself to be intimate with your emotions and inner demons and sharing them with the person you love.”

Beatrice’s eyebrows were downcast. “Wait, but she doesn’t say that at all.”

Ava swatted Beatrice’s arm, bouncing a little on the shared bench, “That’s the point! She’s not sharing her negative emotions out of fear that her relationship will be too fragile to endure it.”

It took a second, but eventually Beatrice nodded along taking in Ava’s words. “Hmm, I hadn’t considered that.” She looked down at her wrist, checking the time on her watch. “Great Scott! Is that the time? Camila is going to murder me.”

Ava had to double check if the person next to her was in fact a seventy year old grandmother. “What’s up?”

“I was meant to meet her at Harrods for some last minute Christmas shopping,” She stood from the stool already beelining for the production room. “I sort of forgot to get presents with everything that’s been happening.”

Ava lowered the piano’s lid, following closely behind.

They draped on their coats for the cold night air and made their way down the steps to the ground floor of the studio. It was early evening by this point.

“So, what do you have going on for the rest of the night?” Beatrice held the door open for both of them, Ava slightly crouching underneath her arm to go through.

Ava adjusted the scarf around her neck. “Probably get some takeout and watch Derry Girls for like the third time.” She hoped the disappointment in their time being cut short wasn’t too obvious. “A little reward after today.”

Eyes looked at her curiously as if Beatrice could read her mind. “Do you want to tag along? We can get some kebabs on the way.” She added quickly, “And I kind of want to see Camila freak out.”

Ava breathed out, the temptation was strong. “I’m not sure, crowded confined places are not safe for me.”

“Oh. You mean because you’ll be–”

“Yeah, that small detail. I’ll be recognised.”

“How about this?” Beatrice pulled a navy beanie from her coat pocket, presenting it to Ava. “It’s not much, but I think you could get away with at least people not going in for the double take.”

Her eyes went from the beanie to Beatrice.

They grabbed kebabs and a large chips to share between them as they walked to the nearest train entrance. Beatrice had set up the pass system on her phone, then went first showing Ava what to do. They dug into the chips by the tracks and busily chewed, unable to form any kind of conversation. Everyone around them far too tired from the long work day to even lift their heads from their phones. The train arrived just as Beatrice threw the last of their consumables in the bin.

On the train they were able to find a small corner to fit into, barely avoiding the amount of people crammed into the cart. Ava was against the wall too far from any kind of handle to hold on to with Beatrice directly in front of her, shielding her from view. The train jolted forward causing her to lose her balance, but not before Beatrice with her free hand managed to right her back up. She then pressed her hand on the wall to Ava’s side so that she wouldn’t shift further.

Ava looked up with a thankful smile and Beatrice took a second to carefully adjust the beanie on her head, pulling it down more. “Keep your head down.” She did as instructed and found that Beatrice’s Chucks surrounded her Vans, further holding her to the spot.

The train ride went on without any fanfare, just the occasional glance up to check for their stop, which after the first few times turned into an excuse to look at Beatrice. Ava wasn’t sure what was commanding her to do it and she had never been the type to gawk, much less at a person. There was something about the way Beatrice held her neck when she was looking away, it was long, strong, and with the tiniest freckle on the left side. There was an aura about it as well, like she had been instructed her whole life to keep her head held high through proper posture.

“Something on my face?”

“Wha–”

“You were staring.”

“Now arriving at Knightbridge station,” The automated voice echoed across the cart.

“That’s our stop isn’t it?” Beatrice craned her neck double checking. Then, without confirming, gripped Ava’s hand and began to push through the throngs of people.

The crowds in the street were riddled with work commuters and visitors alike, and if you weren’t going home you were headed to Harrods. The building glowed against the backdrop of the cloudy night sky. The Christmas display was up in full swing as everyone around snapped photos. She had never been inside the building itself, but knew exactly what she was about to run into. The place was swanky, like they grew their own yarn, imported slabs of chocolate, and had in stock Gwyneth Paltrow’s Vibe Altering-Stickers, swanky.

They went through the double doors and Ava followed Beatrice to the lower ground where Camila said she would be. Christmas literally exploded, there were rows and rows of ornaments and decorations with gift wrapping available practically everywhere she looked. The atmosphere calmed her in the sense that she wouldn’t be recognised, but then filled her with fear for her safety for a completely different reason. People. So many people at various stages of stress frantically looking for gifts.

Ava felt her phone vibrating in her coat pocket. Emilia. She answered the call signaling to Beatrice that she’d be a moment. “Hello.”

“I know you told me you were going to be in the studio the whole day, but I figured you might want to hear me out.” Emilia’s voice came through. “Are you not in the studio? I can hear a lot on your end.”

“No, finished up. Getting groceries.” She regretted it the moment it came out of her mouth. She kept her eyes on Beatrice as she wandered off in search of Camila.

“You. Getting groceries?” As if it was the most ridiculous thing she had ever heard. “I do fear hell has frozen over, Ava.”

It annoyed Ava that she was somewhat right in mocking her. “What was it that you wanted to tell me?”

“The Grammy’s called just now, apparently they’re going to honour Max Martin this year with a Lifetime Achievement Award. They were wondering if you wanted to be part of the tribute given that you’ll already be there to present the Album of the Year Award.”

“What’s the tribute?”

“His music through the years, that sort of thing, with different performers. A medley of sorts.”

“When do they need an answer?” She fiddled with a snowflake ornament, needing something to do other than looking around nervously. She wanted to focus on the album that was her priority, anything else was going to take too much of her time. Agreeing to this meant agreeing to rehearsals.

“Tomorrow at the latest, they want to start workshopping ideas with the talents as soon as possible.”

Beatrice was waving at her with Camila in tow. She waved back while giving Emilia a quick reply in the hopes that she could get off the call, “I’ll call tomorrow with an answer. Goodnight!” The other women joined her as she hung up.

Camila had a huge smile as she greeted her, barely containing her excitement.“Well, this is unexpected!”

“Hi, Camila.” Beatrice nudged her friend in a futile attempt to get her off her stupor. “I hear we’re going to do a bit of Christmas shopping.”

“We are! This is my first time inside Harrods, I mean, first time here to shop that is.” Her curly hair bounced behind her as she spoke.

And they were off. They looked through displays pointing out at all the decorations that caught their eyes while making ridiculous cute noises at the stuffed animals or endearing wood pieces. They squeezed through small openings, barely managing to not drop things in their path. At some point Ava spotted a pair of wearable antlers and begged Beatrice to wear them. Actually, there wasn’t a lot of begging because Beatrice tutted only once as a show of reluctance but then put them on without much fuss.

Camila rushed to grab a basket with hands already too full to keep going. As they passed a nature display she spoke up, “What have we got here? A £79 bird on a stick?” The thing looked like it was about the snap off.

Beatrice chuckled good naturally. “It goes perfectly with a £2500 nutcracker.”

“Who are they kidding with these prices?” Camila said all while continuing to add things to her basket.

Ava walked behind them accidentally making eye contact with a massively creepy felt reindeer that was too human for her own liking. “Hey, I’ve been meaning to ask,” She flicked the reindeer’s nose, “What happened that time I asked you guys to open for my London show?”

The speed in which Camila spun around gave her whiplash, “What?”

“Must have been three years ago I think while I was here doing the tour, my assistant contacted your manager at the time,” She explained shifting a few things around, avoiding Camila’s gaze was priority number one, “We were told the schedules conflicted.”

“Beatrice, did you know about this?” Camila’s voice had an accusatory tone, intriguing Ava because Beatrice was quiet, too quiet. The arms crossed stance was not usual for Beatrice as far as Ava was aware, which meant she had accidentally opened the floodgates to something.

“I…I’m not– I don’t remember the specifics,” She began, choosing her words carefully, Camila was also crossing her arms now, “We were doing festivals around that time and Vincent …he wasn’t managing requests well.”

Camila looked Beatrice up and down, “Go on.”

Oh yeah, she should not have asked.

“Vincent asked while I was between interviews, I thought he was joking, I obviously couldn’t believe it so I dismissed it.” Her gaze fell on Ava, she saw the guilt on Beatrice’s face. “I’m sorry. I should have been more careful around him.”

Ava came to stand between them, putting a soothing hand on each of them, “It’s okay guys, I know how difficult it can all be in the beginning. No harm done.” She winked at Camila, “Plus, now you owe me.”

Camila somewhat acquiesced with a tiny shrug, “Beatrice will pay in time.” Said person gave her friend a sheepish smile in return.

In the middle of an ornament comparison session, Beatrice’s phone rang, she informed Camila that it was Suzanne before answering the call. “Suzanne? Hi.” Ava could tell Beatrice was struggling to hear with all the noise around them. “No, yes, she’s here with me, that's why she’s not answering her phone.”

Camila perked up, “Me?”

Beatrice spoke to Camila, “The others are on the line, Suzanne has news for us.” Her bandmate came closer standing on her tiptoes to reach where Beatrice held the phone and Beatrice must have realised because she lowered herself to meet Camila’s ear with the phone.

Both women listened carefully, nodding silently along to whatever the conversation was about. Then, a couple of emotions went through their faces, shock, realisation and then joy. Camila was jumping, Beatrice was trying to keep herself balanced while being tugged along in every direction, the phone’s trajectory at some point was the floor, then, it started bouncing between Beatrice’s hands before she got a good grip again.

“Oh my God!” Camila rushed to Ava enveloping her in a big hug, completely forgetting that a conversation was being had. “We just got nominated for a Grammy!”

“Woah!” Ava was jumping now too, just as high as Camila as they both held each other celebrating.

Beatrice looked at them amused, “Everyone is very happy!” She watched as the bouncing turned into a weird dance session along with unnecessary hip movements. “There’s more!”

“WHAT! WHAT!”

“We’re performing, some kind of tribute.” Beatrice turned in an attempt to hear the phone more clearly. “Okay, sounds good, I’ll let Camila know and then we can all get together and talk about this.” It wasn’t long until she rejoined Ava and Camila sporting a really cute smile and those small crescents again. And in that instance Ava decided all at once that she wanted to be the cause of one of those smiles, or definitely a few she was a highly motivated overachiever after all.

Camila rushed her friend in another world shifting hug, which Beatrice was now actually ready for. “BEAAAA! A fucking Grammy!”

Beatrice was practically holding Camila upright at this point. “Best new artist!”

“A GRAMMY!”

“Congratulations guys!”

“Bring it in, Ava,” And now she too was in a Camila headlock, as they all bounced in place. Everyone around them too caught up with whatever they were doing to pay them any mind.

“There's going to be a Max Martin tribute, we’ve been asked to take part in it, but we have to discuss it with the rest of the group.” Beatrice explained the bit Camila had missed during her celebration rampage.

“Oh please!” They began walking through the crowd again, Camila held her basket above her head, protecting the goods. “Where’s the register? I need to leave this place before I sign my life away again.”

As they stood in line for the register, Ava spoke up, “The call I received earlier was about that as well, they’re also asking me to be part of it.”

“No way! Will you? You’ve got to! It’s Max Martin, who can say no to that man.” Apparently, Ava could and was about to.

Beatrice was observing her, no doubt waiting for her answer as well. “Will you forgive Beatrice if I say ‘yes’?

Camila couldn’t hold back the huge smile from taking over her features. “I will definitely forgive Beatrice. Clean slate!”

And Beatrice, she was smiling too, “Then, yes. I’ll do it! For Beatrice of course.” Ava nudged Beatrice, all too pliant in the way she swayed on the spot.

They were in the home goods section now where a candle snuffer was the current hot topic. It was Beatrice who had found it, and by this point on her third explanation as to why her mother needed it. Ava was amused with the sibling dynamic, Camila no doubt younger kept insisting that Beatrice was losing her Goddamn mind right now.

“Beatrice, you cannot get your mother a £250 candle snuffer.” Beatrice was opening her mouth to protest, “If you say ‘she can’t just blow on it’ I will skin you with it.”

Ava wanted to add fuel to the fire, or in this case a candle. “What about this?” She held a white candle up for them, “It’s tuberose scented.”

“What in the world is tuberose?” Camila inquired, holding the object in her hand, “Am I poor?”

“ Agave amica, ” Beatrice said nonchalantly, “It’s a flower.”

That was definitely not going to help, but it did momentarily glitch Ava’s neurons in the best of ways.

“I’m poor.”

Beatrice held up a pair of wick trimmers, “Maybe I’ll get this as well? Make it a set.”

Ava wasn’t sure if Camila understood that Beatrice was messing with her now. “Are those fucking scissors £500?”

Ava went in for the jugular, “To be exact they’re £563.”

Camila threw her hands up in surrender and then pointed at Beatrice with all the wrath of a French peasant, “You’re the 1%.” She then turned to Ava, “Not you Ava, you’re the wind beneath my wings,” before she scurried away.

They were taking the escalator down when it happened. There was a sudden flash coming from above them. Beatrice and Camila froze, not anticipating the unnatural intrusion of lights going off. Ava knew better, she pulled the beanie as far down as possible, exiting as quickly as she could. The women followed closely behind her, necks jumping for the photographers to Ava’s swift moving form.

Beatrice jogged to her side. “How can I help? What can I do?” Her voice rushed out, panicked.

Ava ducked behind one of the tables with a Christmas pudding display, Camila and Beatrice following her lead. “I need an emergency exit.”

Both of the women’s heads popped up, searching frantically. “Down the chocolate display cabinets to the left.” Beatrice ducked back down. “We’ll cut straight through it’ll be okay.” She watched as both Camila and Ava nodded in confirmation and then an idea came to her. “Ava, give the beanie to Camila.” Ava did as she was told, understanding immediately what was about to happen.

Camila put it on without hesitation, “I volunteer as tribute.”

Ava made a noise between a snort and a laugh while looking between Beatrice and Camila affectionately. “Do you hear it, Cam?” She mimicked the iconic sound, making popping noises with her mouth, “ Live fast, die young, bad girls do it well.”

“Oh, I hear it.” She stood fixing the beanie more snuggly around her head, she directed her eyes towards the photographers who were sifting through every possible space searching for Ava. “ Live fast, die young, bad girls do it well.” She saluted them one last time then ran for her life, colourful shopping bags shaking from side to side.

Live fast, die young, bad girls do it well

They watched her go, her small legs going so fast that metaphorically there was dust in her wake. A photographer pointed at her retreating form shouting at the others to follow. Beatrice grabbed her hand. “Don’t let go.” And honestly, she didn’t need to be told twice.

Get back, get down

Pull me closer if you think you can hang

Hands up, hands tied

Don't go screamin' if I blow you with a bang

They ran to the chocolate cabinets, pushing through as many people as they could. A child screamed bloody murder as their tray of chocolates hit the floor. Beatrice’s grip was solid, pulling her along through pure adrenaline alone. She kicked the emergency door open and proceeded to glide down the stairs, a feat that Ava was finding a lot more difficult to manage, but somehow she was still on her feet.

Going nought to bitch, I'll see four million

Accelerating fast, I can do this in a second

Lookin' in the rear view, swaggin' goin' swell

Leavin' boys behind ‘cause it’s illegal just to kill

They were outside before she even realised. Beatrice slowed, taking in her surroundings. “You okay?”

Ava was in fact not okay. She had gone down ten flights of stairs and her cardio was abysmal when in off season. It was a miracle that she even had enough breath to breathe, which should pretty much answer Beatrice.

How was Beatrice managing to speak right now? How had those stupid antlers not fallen off!

“Fuck,” Her hand was gripped again and she was pulled forward, this time though their hands were clammy and Beatrice was losing her grip. Before they lost their momentum their fingers entwined and if Ava wasn’t so busy running for her life she would have lingered on it.

Ava focus !

The crowd behind was growing with noise and Ava could only assume the photographers had realised Camila was a distraction.

“Your phone!” Beatrice yelled mid breath. “Get your phone ready!”

By the time she looked up from her phone they had made it to the underground. She scanned her face and slammed the thing to the receiver. They made it down the escalator and a train was there waiting. The announcement came through of the doors closing. Beatrice pulled her inside, and Ava slammed onto her chest as the doors shut behind them.

Shift gear, automatic, damned if I do

Who's gonna stop me when I'm coming through?

What we got left is just me and you

But if I go to bed, baby, can I take you?

Turns out just jumping into a random train wasn’t the best idea because they had to redirect themselves a couple of stations down, but thankfully no photographers to avoid just a teenager who absolutely lost their mind.

The streets were quiet by the time they made it to Ava’s rental. They had survived mostly unscathed, except for Beatrice’s candle which had unfortunately shattered due to all the commotion. Ava was sure there would be pictures and she was already planning on giving Emilia a phone call tonight.

“Ava, I am so sorry about putting you in that situation.” Beatrice had been eerily silent up to this point. Hearing her voice alleviated Ava’s concerns somewhat since she was already jumping onto the conclusion that it had all been too much. “I should have listened earlier instead of steamrolling you into it.” The way she was looking at Ava was devastating.

Ava was not upset in the least though, she had a great time with Beatrice and Camila. She couldn’t recall the last time she felt normal, just out and about with friends without the constant nagging feeling in her head. “Are you kidding? That was amazing!”

Beatrice watched her carefully, “Are you sure?”

Ava skipped forward, walking backwards in front of Beatrice. “Sure, I’m sure!”

“I completely understand if you never want a repeat of that.”

“You know, after a point things like that aren’t avoidable, you gotta make do with what you can.”

“Still, I should have been more careful, it wasn’t safe for you.” Beatrice was beating herself up for the night's events, her gaze downcast on the pavement.

Ava stopped and placed her hand on Beatrice’s shoulder, “Hey, I’m fine. See?” She spun in place. “And I got free cardio out of it!” She gestured with her head towards an apartment flat on their right. “Here’s my stop.”

They walked down the small but well kept garden. The lights were all off except for the streetlamp a couple of homes away. “I’m glad you enjoyed yourself then.” Beatrice was starting to sound a little better though slightly conflicted.

“Camila definitely enjoyed herself.” They both laughed. “I should probably thank her, it couldn’t have been easy.”

“I’m sure she’ll love it if I give you her number.”

“Please do! She’s my new partner in crime after all.”

Beatrice huffed in a playful outraged manner, her insanely cute stupid antlers still perfectly on her head. “Wow, I’ve been replaced already. I should have known!”

“I could never replace you.” It came out with too much sincerity to be offhanded.

Beatrice’s cheeks had become pinker suddenly, a small smile creeping by her eyes. “I’ll see you after the holidays?”

“Already counting the days.” She doesn’t know what possessed her, but she leaned forward giving Beatrice a kiss on the cheek. “Happy Holidays, Beatrice.”

Beatrice was stock-still, eyes shifting back and forth between Ava’s own. And after a few seconds she breathed in and said, “Happy Holidays, Ava.”

Ava closed the door behind her, but couldn’t bring herself to walk much further. She leaned on it for support with her head against the wood, and then slowly released a long breath. The tips of her ears felt hot and her hands buzzed on the door handle. Her heart was thudding rapidly inside her chest and she felt dizzy and completely still all at once.

Hmm

—

[Did you just link me homework?]

[I sent you jazz scales, for practice while you’re away.]

[You sent me homework while on holiday. What kind of monster are you!?]

–

[Did you know that Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and ABC’s have the same melody!?]

[Yes, I did know that.]

[My mind is blown!]

–

[I just googled you. How are you younger than me?]

[Why are you googling me? Also, I don’t believe you.]

[I was bored and wanted insider knowledge. Google it!]

[Unbelievable. Do your scales!]

–

{hahahhoo.jpeg}

[Is that Camila tripping into one of the Christmas displays?]

[Yes! The beanie came off and everything, no wonder they figured it out so quickly.]

[I showed her, she said “I will treasure this ‘til my dying day”.]

[There’s a dopey one of you with the antlers, looks like you’re mid sneeze.]

{sneezyface.jpeg}

[How do I unaccept this?]

[Oh, it’s on the internet, there’s no unaccepting it.]

[I need to get in contact with our publicist.]

[It’s my chat background now, it’s too late.]

–

[How are your holidays going so far?]

[Great! I’ve been eating and sleeping like the lazy bum I am.]

[Haven’t thought of the album at all. Not one bit.]

[You’re editing aren’t you?]

[Wouldn’t you like to know!?]

[That’s why I asked!]

[What about you? What have you been up to?]

[Mostly studio time. Everyone is free so we’ve been consistently putting work into the album.]

[We’re getting together tomorrow night for Christmas Eve dinner.]

[You got presents for everyone?]

[Yes, I managed to pick up Lilith’s this morning. I'm sure she’ll absolutely love a Madonna greatest hits compilation.]

[If I don’t hear from you I’ll assume you’re dead and begin to plot my revenge.]

[Oh? Are you going to protect me from Lilith?]

[Silly, Bea, I’m rich, not stupid.]

[I’ll send an assassin and also you’re already dead.]

[Maybe I’ll shed a few tears.]

[What can I even say to that?]

[I guess I can die at peace now that I know what to expect.]

[What! No! Don’t say that!]

[I’ll avenge you! I’ll do it myself. Where does she live?!]

{Aurora - Starvation}

[Here. Your battle song.]

[Aurora! You just reminded me that I need to listen to her new album.]

[Okay woah!]

[Battle music but with a dance break?]

[Wait, are we having a dance battle?]

[I will protect your honour or whatever!]

[It’s not the Middle Ages!]

–

[Merry Christmas, Ava.]

{10 hour Venga Boys video}

[Merry Christmas!]

[I’m currently on 04:36/10:00 hours in and it is literally the only thing holding me together right now.]

[I can’t imagine hopping on the Venga Bus for that long is psychologically sound.]

[I can only take so many cheek kisses and bendiciones.]

[What are you up to on the day of our Lord?]

[Just to mum’s for lunch and then not much else.]

[I can’t even sit long enough to respond! I gotta go make arroz con leche.]

[I’ll call you later?]

[I’d like that.]

–

When she’s finally settled for the night, with a book on her lap and a cup of tea by her side, Ava calls. Beatrice fights the urge to answer right away, barely keeping her fingers from swiping after the second ring. “Hello?” Her voice is quiet in her empty flat.

“Hi.” Ava’s is husky and low as if she’s trying to keep her voice down. “Sorry, give me a second. I'm trying to sneak away.”

Something inside Beatrice starts to panic, “Ava you didn’t have to go through the trouble. I know you’re with your family. Honestly, I’m happy to just ring you tomorrow or something.”

“You’re gonna ring me tomorrow?” Ava fondly mocks Beatrice’s accent, but continues, “You sound so posh right now. The phone is intensifying your accent. Or has it always been this… attractive?”

Beatrice is not sure how to respond to that. “I guess it must be the phone because I’m sure I’ve been English this whole time.”

“This whole time? Maybe it’s because I’m only focusing on your voice, it makes it more noticeable.”

“Your voice sounds different too.”

She could hear Ava settling somewhere, “Yeah?”

“Yes, it’s much lower.”

“Oh? Like, sexy low?”

“Like, when you sing sometimes in a lower register, your voice sounds fuller, more mature.” She was an idiot to the highest degree.

–

{Doechii - Denial is A River}

[I get it, Doechii. I get it.]

[Ava, it’s 3 AM!]

Before Ava even has a chance to reply, Beatrice is calling. “I promise I’m up for a totally respectable reason.”

“And what’s that?” Beatrice’s voice was groggy with sleep.

“I think I’ve reached a point of delirium. I caught myself rhyming the ABC’s with 123.”

Beatrice chucked. “As simple as do, re, mi.”

“You know what the worst part is?”

“Hmm?”

Ava pushed her laptop away, making space on top of her bed to lie down. “I want to keep it.”

“Maybe you can revisit this in the morning.”

“But— ”

“Are your creative juices flowing again?”

“I told you to ignore that!”

“I’m staying on the phone until you go to sleep.”

“Well, I’m staying on the phone until YOU go to sleep so that I can continue with the creative process.”

“Is that a challenge?”

When Ava woke up a few hours later she found her phone by the side of her face still on a call.

“Ava?”

“Who won?”

“I’m not sure, I think I fell asleep.”

–

Beatrice had been pulled into every direction at this point and her coordination was failing her. The not so spiked punch was starting to seem very messed with. The bathroom mirror reflected back a face covered in four different shades of lipstick, all courtesy of her bandmates.

The music vibrated off the door as the party continued outside.

As she rubbed at the marks on her face a video call came through her phone, which was dangerously dangling on the rim of the sink.

She answered, “Hi Ava.”

Ava’s face took a second to stabilise, “Happy New Year!” Ava mumbled. She was wearing a goofy hat and appeared to be scarfing down grapes.

“Happy New Year!”

“Are you in the bathroom?”

“Yes, just trying to remove lipstick off my face. Though it is proving futile.”

Ava’s face came closer to the phone, “Who are the kisses from?”

“Four drunkards wouldn’t leave me be.”

“Quick, I want you to make a wish.” Ava held a green grape up to the phone’s camera. “I’m on my last grape and I can’t think of anything else so I’m granting you my last wish.”

“Do I have to say it out loud?”

“No.”

—

“Absolutely not! This is not what we all agreed to do.” Beatrice was not having it. The plans had completely changed.

Suzanne sighed, shifting her weight on the chair in front of them. They were in the hotel lobby waiting for a van to take them to rehearsal. Her bandmates sat around in various stages of jet lag. “Did you or did you not agree to perform in the tribute?”

“Yes, WE–” She was cut off by Suzanne’s raised hand, Levy snickered nearby.

“Are you not part of the band, Beatrice?” The raised eyebrow was enough to send shivers down her spine.

She huffed, looking anywhere but at her manager’s face. This was upsetting her. She agreed with the band performing together, not to frolicking on stage to lame 90’s pop songs for the whole world to watch. “Why me? Camila and Lilith are great singers, and I’m sure they can pick up choreography just as quickly.”

“Camila and Lilith are not the image of the group.” Levy interjected, slightly annoyed that he even had to remind her in the first place. “You’re well aware that band leaders take on more public facing roles.”

She was desperately looking between her bandmates, “Guys?”

“I would love to, Bea, really, but I couldn’t possibly put that much choreography into memory.” Camila was avoiding her eyes, picking at something on her finger. “I wouldn’t want to embarrass us like that.”

“I’m not much of a court jester,” Lilith, on the other hand, made direct eye contact.

Yasmine and Mary were just quietly observing the exchanges, though she could tell they were sympathetic to her cause. “So, that’s it then?”

“Yes, we have agreed and this is what they want of us and you.”

And that was that. The ride to rehearsal was deadly silent. Beatrice knew when to swallow it down, she knew whatever her feelings were towards this didn’t matter. The frustrating part was that she actually had to put her best foot forward and represent her band well. Suzanne and Levy left them at rehearsal and the topic was not brought up again.

Two days later Ava walked through the dance studio’s door wearing a nude skort, a tucked in white t-shirt with stripes along her chest and hair slightly longer than she remembered. And for some reason making a fool of herself on live television didn’t seem so bad after all.

Ava greeted some of the dancers and shook the choreographer's hand, she then took in the studio and spotted her. The smile that spread across Ava’s face was toothy and too contagious not to return. Beatrice stood from where she was sitting, and all at once became hyper aware of just how much sweat was probably on her person. Ava set on a straight path towards her and she was having an internal panic attack.

She was crushed into a hug, “Fancy seeing you here.” Ava wiggled them in place for a few seconds before pulling away. “I thought you guys were just doing the three songs.”

It seems the Grammy’s did not have their shit together if this was news to Ava as well. “There was a last minute change, I think someone pulled out.”

“It was probably Chanel, she has commitment issues,” Ava was not at all phased by this apparently. Maybe Beatrice held these award shows in too high regard.

“Alright guys, now that Ava is here we can start to focus on the opening song.” The choreographer spoke, holding the remote control to the studio’s sound system.

Beatrice was happy for the downtime now that Ava had arrived and the rest of the tribute could start taking shape. She wasn’t in the opening song, but stayed behind to watch as everyone took their places with Ava at the center.

It was strange seeing Ava in person again after their time apart, whatever had transpired between them during the holidays just didn’t translate to the woman commanding such presence in front of her. The Ava she had grown to know was not who this Ava was.

Ava was so natural in this environment, even considering that she was learning all of this from scratch. At some point she was handed a serving tray prop covered in drinks and she spun around with it doing the choreography as if there was nothing to it.

The third day was Beatrice’s long day, both her and Ava arrived at the studio at the same time. Some of the dancers were already practicing the song with Ava watching them carefully. Beatrice joined along, already familiar with some of the moves. They started off moving like dolls bursting out of their storage boxes and then moved to more of the iconic moves of the song. Beatrice obviously feels the nostalgia coming in waves, remembering just how much she had watched this exact music video growing up.

The studio’s door opened, their choreographer came in followed by JC. Beatrice had met, or somewhat ran into him a couple of times by now at different festivals and events. He had been nice, a small chat here and there with not much commitment for more. He was basically the German Justin Bieber and barely on her music radar. He, like Ava, introduced himself around the room and then walked to the two of them.

“Ava!” He greeted her, the hug far too long for Beatrice’s taste.

“Hey, JC.” Ava pulled away, giving him a playful punch to the chest. “I guess our Justin is here, huh? Where’s the noodle hair?” She laughed, somewhat teasing. It seemed they both knew each other.

“Can you imagine!” He joined along with Ava’s laughter.

“JC, this is our JC, Beatrice.” Ava introduced them and Beatrice didn’t think to correct her.

“Oh, we’ve met! I think maybe a year ago in Glasgow.” Ava’s eyes shifted between them.

Beatrice nodded, “That’s right, a festival I think.” Honestly, she was surprised that he even remembered their conversation.

The music went off across the studio, no doubt the choreographer trying to get their attention.

The rest of rehearsal consisted of Beatrice and JC going back and forth between their parts with Ava just dancing along with the background dancers. Turns out that learning this before today meant nothing because JC was dancing circles around her within a few minutes, that’s not to say that Beatrice wasn’t holding her own because she was, but she was not used to singing and dancing. She had done ballet for years, she knew she had the stamina, but this was another monster and an angry sorta bubble was forming.

At some point JC took off his shirt which was equal parts alarming and annoying, everyone was distracted and everyone’s distraction was throwing her. Ava had completely caught up at this point as well, further adding to her incompetence.

It was her part again now, she shifted to the center and got slapped in the ass, “Let’s go, Bea!” Ava was to her right, hair stuck on her face from all the sweating that was happening. Her voice came through the held microphone, the booty tap far too encouraging. And the rest just flowed out of her somehow, even the ad libs and sustained notes.

The fourth day is another band day, they’re at the venue now, all set up on the moving platform. The stages around them are starting to take shape and various people are moving around the arena setting up. The music director is busy talking with the stage director and stage hands as everything around them continues to shift.

“Ladies, start with some warm ups, I’ll be done in a few minutes,” The musical directors paused the conversation long enough to address them.

They’re just going through their songs today and deciding on the presentation. Ava will be taking part in one of the songs. She’s with them now just as background vocals along with Lilith and Camila.

“So, what will it be?” Beatrice ventures, turning to her bandmates and Ava, who has found a spot by Camila directly behind Beatrice on her right. They usually start warm ups with some of their favourite oldies.

“Ava should pick since it’s her first time.” Camila said, messing with her keyboard’s synths.

“Pick what?”

“A song to warm up to. It’s gotta be an oldie but goodie,” Yasmine spoke up, already creating a beat with her kickdrum.

“Alright.” Ava thought for a moment her eyes moving across the small stage to all the members. Then, she leaned and whispered into Camila’s ear.

“Oooh that’s a really good one,” Camila said while grabbing the tambourine beside her and handing it to Ava. “Start us off.”

“And what? You’ll just know?”

“We’ll know.”

Ava bounced the instrument a couple of times finding the rhythm and then Camila joined, the melody already obvious enough for the rest of the instruments to join along. Beatrice faced her bandmates before her voice combined along as well.

I need love, love to ease my mind

I need to find, find someone to call mine

But mama said you can't hurry love

No you just have to wait

She said love don't come easy

It's a game of give and take

Camila pushed her microphone to Ava, gesturing with scrunched up nose and lips. Beatrice kept the song going, also pointing at the microphone for Ava to join. And when she eventually did, the whole song transformed the stage as the band jammed along together. It was their tradition for a reason, it brought them back to what they loved about music. Music to them was timeless and a joy they all shared together. In a space like this it held them together and she was happy to share in the moment with Ava as well.

No love, love don't come easy

But I keep on waiting, anticipating for that

Soft voice to talk to me at night

For some tender arms to hold me tight

An energy took over the arena as they played, background dancers sitting along the stage stood and danced, unable to avoid the song's infectious harmony. Ava smiled in her direction and Beatrice’s heart no longer beat to the rhythm of the song, but to something else entirely.

When mama said

You can't hurry love

No, you just have to wait

She said trust, give it time

No matter how long it takes

You can't hurry love

No, you just have to wait

She said love don't come easy

It's a game of give and take

It was late. Beatrice doesn’t know what time exactly. They had been going over the routines, blocking, and outfit changes for hours at this point. JC was on the main stage doing his solo, which was also the ending number and she had lost track of Ava. Beatrice was sitting by a far wall with a really lovely and attractive background dancer who had taken the opportunity to strike up a conversation.

She was nodding along with the other woman, keeping the conversation amicable and flowing, but she was tired. She was sure there had been some flirty lines, but they had barely even cycled through her weary mind.

Ava suddenly sat beside her, something she only noticed because there was small huff while she did it. She took a swig of her water bottle and then passed her hand across her lips wiping them, she had the tiniest frown on her face as she looked between Beatrice and the dancer.

Before Beatrice even thought of opening her mouth to greet her, Ava swatted her right leg, and by pure instinct her body worked out what Ava wanted. She placed her leg down and Ava lowered herself onto her thigh, wiggling a couple of times to find the best angle for her head.

Ava didn’t say anything at all, she just popped in her earphones and closed her eyes.

After a few minutes, the dancer was called away for another round of rehearsals and Beatrice just sat and watched Ava as her chest moved up and down, her breathing was even but she wasn’t asleep. Her arms rested comfortably on her tummy and that’s when Beatrice spotted it, the hair tie she had given her all those months back, and she knew it was hers because she was currently wearing the other pair. On Ava’s wrist was her missing jade flower hair tie.

Several thoughts went through her head. One, the practical, sensible part of her concluded that it was just a hair tie and its use was currently to keep Ava’s hair off her face while they practiced. Two, the side of her that knew better and that always strategised immediately caught onto the fact that she had not seen Ava use the hair tie at all. And third, the hopeful side of her was willing it to mean more than just being a simple object with a singular purpose.

Her hand reached for it, she couldn’t help herself. She twirled the small flower in her fingers, her thoughts probably accelerating past several countries' speed limits. It took a moment, but Ava’s breathing changed and then her other hand passed along Beatrice’s wrist reaching for something and when she found it, Ava gave her amber flower tie a twist of her own.

The silence stretched for a few seconds and Beatrice could feel with the tips of her fingers Ava’s pulse quicken.

What the fuck?

–

Tuna. The meal prepared for them was tuna sandwiches. It was dress rehearsals and they were once again having tuna sandwiches. This was the Grammys! Beatrice looked from the offensive meal back to her bandmates, they were all happily eating it, but of course they didn’t have to suffer five days of it.

“Tuna, tuna, tuna," Ava materialised by her side, also giving the tuna sandwiches a grimace. She continued the tune, “Tuna, tuna, tuna.”

“No, no, no, no, no,” She joined, adding a separate tune on top, “No, no, no more tuna, no, no, no more tuna.”

“I don’t want tuna no more.”

“No, no, no more tuna.”

“I don’t want tuna no more"

“No, no, no more tuna.”

“No more!”

The fit of laughter and giggles that overtook them was enough to get everyone’s attention from the backstage area. Ava’s hand came to her mouth shutting in the cackle that escaped when Beatrice realised just how loud they had been. Camila raised one eyebrow in their direction, eventually waving them towards the other band members.

Everything so far has been going according to plan. Ava had somehow perfected her thirty second outfit change from a neon green halter top and waist hugging pants to a beautifully brooding black lace dress with a high cinched waist and flowing floor length bell sleeves. They were all hitting their cues, the band was flawlessly executing every song, and Beatrice had not eaten the moving stage yet, which was going to prove to be painfully difficult during one of their numbers.

–

The morning of the Grammys Beatrice is stressed, but not because in just a few hours she’ll be performing live to millions of people, no, but because she is currently in an endless queue to get Hadestown tickets for Ava. She had set her phone’s alarm to wake her exactly twenty minutes before tickets went on sale and that was at 4 AM in the morning. It is now 7 AM.

Camila had made several angry noises from the bed next to her throughout the early morning, which was understandable given that she all but blasted her with an alarm and scrambled out of bed several times to grab her card details, eat a protein bar and grab her glasses, all in that order and all on separate occasions.

How in the world could there possibly still be 16,000 people in the queue? She wasn’t even sure that many people combined liked musical theater. And she wasn’t a quitter, never has been, but the lack of restful sleep was going to bite her in the ass later, she was sure.

Beatrice sighed loudly, pulling the bed sheets off and thudding all the way to their room door.

“What now!” Camila all but growled as she left the room.

It took too many knocks for Yasmine to finally open the door to her room. She rubbed her eyes, barely registering the person in front of her. “I thought we were getting up at eight.”

“Did you get Hadestown tickets?” Beatrice held the phone close to Yasmine’s face who blinked a couple of times adjusting to the brightness. “They were meant to go on sale hours ago and I’ve been sitting in the queue and nothing has changed.” Beatrice wasn’t frantic often, but when she was she knew everyone avoided her at all costs. Yasmine unfortunately had nowhere to run.

“Who is it?” Mary’s voice came from within the room.

“It’s Beatrice, she's asking about musical theater tickets.”

“Beatrice doesn’t like musicals.”

“YES! Yes, I do. Absolutely love them.” She knew she was giving crazy. “With their whimsical dancing and emotional power vocal ME songs!” She pushed the phone to Yasmine’s face again, “Now, Yasmine please tell me how I can get my hands on a bloody ticket.”

“I left a bot running on my phone overnight, I haven't checked yet.” Yasmine procured the device from her pajama pants. “Yes, it seems it was able to pick up a few tickets. I usually like to go to several performan–”

“How much do you want for two of them?”

Yasmine smiled.

Beatrice was scared.

#avatrice #warrior nun #sister beatrice #ava silva

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youngsadlesbian · 8 months ago

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asking for poly!marylene x reader pretty please with cherries on top? orr if you don't write poly, can you just do something with mary? i'm thinking of singer! mary here, dedicating a song to the reader in the crowd? or asking r to come to stage because she just need to show the world they're together? thanks for considering it! 💞

HIDDEN MELODIES — mary macdonald.

pairing: mary macdonald x reader

summary: you and mary have a secret relationship for almost a year until she finally reveals to the world who her heart belongs to.

a/n: i think that's close to what you asked and i promise to try to write and post something with poly marylene soon, but for now, enjoy this cuteness <3

word count: 1,1k

warnings: none, just fluff.

Mary Macdonald had been your girlfriend for almost a year, and only a total of five people knew about it. It wasn’t your intention to keep the relationship a secret, but Mary was a rising star in the music world, and her agent thought it would be smarter for you to keep it under wraps for a while.

You agreed because you understood the importance of Mary’s career and how the world was still extremely homophobic. Perhaps the time to reveal your relationship would come, but for now, you supported her from the sidelines, cheering her on at every opportunity.

One of your favorite places to be was in the recording studio with Mary. You loved watching her work, seeing her eyes light up as she perfected each song. The studio was her sanctuary, and you felt privileged to be a part of it.

“Does this sound okay?” Mary asked, pulling off her headphones and looking at you expectantly.

You listened to the playback, her voice filling the room with raw emotion. “It sounds incredible, Mary. You’re going to blow everyone away with this album.”

She smiled, a blush creeping up her cheeks. “I couldn’t do this without you, you know. Your support means everything to me.”

You walked over to her, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. “And I’ll always be here for you, no matter what.”

Mary sighed, leaning into your embrace. “I wish we didn’t have to hide. I want the world to know how much I love you.”

“I know,” you whispered, holding her close. “But for now, let’s focus on your music. We’ll figure everything else out when the time is right.”

Many nights were spent in the studio, rehearsing late into the night. One evening, after a particularly long session, you both sat on the couch, exhausted but content.

Mary looked at you, her eyes soft with affection. “Do you remember the first time we met?”

You laughed, nodding. “How could I forget? You were so nervous, but the moment you started singing, it was like magic.”

“I was nervous because I saw you in the audience,” she admitted, a shy smile playing on her lips. “I wanted to impress you.”

“Well, you certainly did,” you replied, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “And you continue to impress me every single day.”

She leaned in, her lips meeting yours in a tender kiss. “I love you,” she murmured against your lips.

“I love you too, Mary,” you whispered back, feeling your heart swell with emotion.

The opening night of Mary’s first tour was approaching, and you could feel the excitement and tension in the air. You were in the front row, filled with pride and anticipation as the lights dimmed and the music started.

Mary took the stage, her presence captivating the audience instantly. She performed several songs, her voice resonating through the arena, touching the hearts of everyone present. Then, she paused, scanning the crowd until her eyes found yours.

"This next song is very special to me," she began, her voice filled with emotion. "It's about someone who has been my rock, my inspiration, and the love of my life. Tonight, I want to share with all of you a part of my life that I've kept private for too long."

The crowd murmured in curiosity, but Mary’s eyes never left yours. "This is for you," she said softly, "thank you for everything."

As the first notes of the song played, you felt tears welling up in your eyes. Mary’s voice was filled with love and sincerity as she sang, and each word felt like a personal message to you. The audience was spellbound, hanging onto every lyric.

When the song ended, the arena erupted in applause, but Mary wasn’t finished. She took a deep breath and looked out into the sea of faces. "I want everyone to know that I’m in love with the most amazing person. We've been together for almost a year, and it’s time I share this part of my life with you all. Y/N, I love you."

The crowd's reaction was a mix of surprise and admiration. You stood there, overwhelmed by emotion, as Mary extended her hand towards you. You made your way to the stage, your heart pounding in your chest.

When you reached her, Mary pulled you into a tight embrace, and the audience cheered. The moment felt surreal, like a dream come true. You looked into her eyes, filled with love and gratitude.

"Thank you," you whispered, your voice shaking.

Mary smiled, her eyes shining with tears. "No, thank you. For everything."

From that moment on, your relationship was no longer a secret. The world now knew that Mary Macdonald was not only a talented musician but also deeply in love with you. The support from her fans was overwhelming, and you both knew that together, you could face anything.

The tour continued, but this night was forever etched in your memory as the night your love was celebrated openly, and the beginning of a new chapter in your life together. Backstage, the atmosphere was electric with excitement.

Mary turned to you, her face glowing with happiness. "We did it," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "We finally did it."

You nodded, tears streaming down your face. "I’m so proud of you, Mary. You were amazing out there."

She laughed, pulling you into another hug. "I couldn’t have done it without you. You’ve always been my biggest supporter."

"And I always will be," you replied, kissing her softly. "No matter what."

In the weeks that followed, your relationship became a beacon of hope for many. Mary’s fans embraced your love story, and you received countless messages of support. It wasn’t always easy, but knowing you had each other made every challenge worth it.

One night, as you lay in bed, Mary turned to you, a thoughtful expression on her face. "What do you think the future holds for us?"

You smiled, brushing your fingers through her hair. "I think it holds a lot of love, happiness, and adventure. And as long as we’re together, I know we can handle anything."

Mary leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to your lips. "I love you more than words can say."

"And I love you," you replied, holding her close. "Forever and always."

As you drifted off to sleep in her arms, you felt an overwhelming sense of peace and contentment. Your journey together had just begun, and you knew that with Mary by your side, the future was bright and filled with endless possibilities.

#mary macdonald x reader #marauders x reader #marauders era #mary macdonald

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asteracelatte · 9 months ago

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KIR☆MEKI EMOTION (SP☆RKLING EMOTION) – ST☆RISH (Lyrics)

Ittoki Otoya (CV: Terashima Takuma)

Hijirikawa Masato (CV: Suzumura Kenichi)

Jinguji Ren (CV: Suwabe Junichi)

Ichinose Tokiya (CV: Miyano Mamoru)

Shinomiya Natsuki (CV: Taniyama Kishou)

Kurusu Syo (CV: Shimono Hiro)

Aijima Cecil (CV: Toriumi Kousuke)

ㅤ

–

ㅤ

Life is music (Music!) It’s a precious love song (Love song!) We connect by shaking hands (Shake hand!) And I’ll never let go of yours For you I’ll sing with all the love I have Make all the stars in the world light up KIR☆MEKI EMOTION ReThe best stage you wish for Re Is not a dream, it’s right in front of you Ma An unexplored DEEPZONE Ma The feeling of jumping into it is exciting Na Wakux2 What lies Sy Dokix2 Beyond that?! Na Get hooked on this Sy Super LIVE! Na Sy The more passion you put in, the hotter it gets Ot Let’s give shape to this happiness here To A future where you can fly depends on you To I’ll always be waiting for you Ot In a dazzling, shining Paradise Ce Just enjoy this time with all of your heart Ot Ma Na Now, let’s go Ot Ma Na To the hill where everyone’s waiting for you To Re Sy Ce Ready, go! To Re Sy Ce Raise your voice to the skies!! Let’s shout out, let’s start (Let’s start!) Be who you are, my song (My song!) Tell everyone you’re happy (Happy!) I wanna give you my best smile Just go for it, jump! To the journey towards the top This is a song to give you endless courage KIR☆MEKI EMOTION Re When we met for the first time Re Do you remember the shocked look on your face? Ma It was an inexperienced REDZONE Ma A dream encounter that swept me off my feet Na It got your heart pounding, didn’t it? Sy But more than that Na A 1000 times over Sy I want to give you that feeling Na Sy I’ll be by your side Na Sy No matter when or where Ma The road you’re walking, I want to illuminate it for you To To be the light that pierces through the darkness, I swear To Even if you have to stop and cry for a while Ma Like always, like right now, until forever Ce I’ll keep walking by your side, just like today Ot Ma Na Let’s share Ot Ma Na All the hardships To Re Sy Ce Even if time passes To Re Sy Ce LOVE changes everything Listen to your heartbeat (Heartbeat!) Write and dance your true song (True song!) Believe in what you’re dreamin’ (Dreamin’) Because you’re here alive Now it’s time to jump! I promise that you’re not alone Foreverx2 I’ll always love you KIR☆MEKI EMOTION Ce There’s so much we’re still missing Sy But it’s totally fine Re As long as your color To Is never forgotten Na Regardless of what color it is Ma It’s still a part of the rainbow Ot That’s why no matter where You can always find us Life is music (Music!) It’s a precious love song (Love song!) We connect by shaking hands (Shake hand!) And I’ll never let go of yours Now it’s time to jump! Your dream doesn't have to stay a dream Make all the stars in the world light up KIR☆MEKI EMOTION ㅤ

ㅤ

TRANSLATED BY:

Mia

LYRICS/COMPOSITION:

Agematsu Noriyasu (上松範康) – Elements Garden

ARRANGEMENT:

Iwahashi Seima (岩橋星実) – Elements Garden

ALBUM:

LIVE EMOTION Theme Song CD -Single-

#utapri #live emotion #lyrics #starish #ittoki otoya #uta no prince sama #kurusu syo #shinomiya natsuki #hijirikawa masato #jinguji ren #aijima cecil #ichinose tokiya #kirameki emotion

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malarkgirlypop · 1 year ago

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MEDIC! Part 23 (Donald Malarkey x Fem!OC)

HEHEHE love you all!

Based on the HBO show and the actors who portray the characters, no hate to anyone involved.

Tag list: @next-autopsy, @panzershrike-pretz, @xxluckystrike, @bucky32557038ww2 (let me know if you want to be tagged.)

Since we were moving off the line I started helping George with the stock. No one would be needing any medical care so I was a free hand. I unpacked the shelves with the new items we had gotten from the previous drop, rations, clothes, ammo, everything we needed to survive. I was helping George with the ration packs, they gave us a whole bunch of food but we needed to sort it into separate bags to give to the men to take with them. I pulled a heavy box off of the top shelf, sliding it to the front.

“George.” I heard a call from behind me as one of the soldiers waltzed into the room. “We need you to come blow this thing up.” The man said.

“Alright, I’ll be there. Em, I’m going to blow shit up, you gonna be alright here?” He asked, picking up the bazooka and slinging it over his shoulder.

“I’ll be fine!” I called over my shoulder, I heard his footsteps retreat out of the room. Now I was alone, milling around and sorting the items. It was so boring. A tedious task. Normally it wasn’t so bad. George helped and we chatted, then the other soldiers came in to visit as well, keeping me distracted as I worked. But now it was silent. If only I had some music to listen to that always made cleaning and chores so much more fun. Music! I had my phone and earbuds. No one was here and hopefully they still had some battery left. It wouldn’t hurt and I would get the job done faster I’m sure. I grabbed my bag from the corner of the room, rummaging through it. I pulled out my phone and earbuds that I had stashed deep down the bottom so no one could find them, along with everything else I had in my pockets the day I arrived. I powered on my phone, it worked. God I hadn’t been on it in months, which was weird to think about, it’s a normal accessory in my own time. 60% that’s pretty good, and my earbuds were still alive too. I was ecstatic. I placed one in my ear, I should only have one in incase someone comes in or there is a bomb strike. Wouldn’t want to miss that. I heard it chime on and connect. I opened spotify, since all the songs I wanted to listen to were downloaded I didn’t need to worry about having service or data. I scrolled through my curated playlists. I stopped on the GUTS album. This is perfect! I played it from the start.

It was fine at the start, since I was alone I quietly hummed along to the song. If anyone walked in they would just assume I had a song stuck in my head. I sorted the rations while listening. Bopping my head the beat. I sang along with the words as I worked. Dancing to the faster songs as I went. I had memorised all of the songs when the album first came out, so I still remembered them all.

“I’m a perfect all-american bitch, with perfect all-american lips and perfect all-american hips.” I swayed around the room, singing only a bit louder. No one could hear me.

I packed the rations, working fast. Having dance breaks when a good song came on. I forgot where I was. I sang into my hand like a microphone, bouncing around the room. I didn’t realise it but I got significantly louder in my singing. Having the headphone on full volume so I could hear it over my own voice. I pretended I was performing on stage as I jumped around singing. I took a quick glance over my shoulder around the room, no one was there good.

Then ‘Vampire’ came on. I stood in place singing into my hand. My voice echoed around the room as I belted it out.

“Blood-sucker, fame fucker, bleeding me dry like a goddamn vampire.” I sang loudly.

By this time I completely disregarded my task at hand, making it counterproductive. I didn’t care, liking the normalcy I had forgotten. I had missed this. Jumping around my apartment with my speakers on full singing as loud as I could. I puffed as the song finished, I pretended to receive applause from the fake audience in front of me, bowing deeply.

The song ‘Logical’ came on. I gasped, “I love this song!” I squealed, waiting for the lyrics to start.

I belted the song at the top of my lungs forgetting where I was and what I was doing. In that moment I was putting my heart and soul into the song. The lyrics somehow all related to the anger I had pent up about Don and I’s fight. Come for me like a saviour, Don had done that, he had made me think that he cared. When he clearly didn’t. I put myself through hell for him, just for him to tell me I was an obligation. God I was so mad, at him, at myself. I had fallen for him so hard, with such high hopes he felt the same. It crushed me to know he didn’t. So maybe I do go home after all of this, if anything was going to stop me going, it was him. But if he doesn’t want me, I’d be better off leaving. I poured my emotions into the song as I sang. It was relieving, I forgot how much music helped me when I was stressed, being able to get in my car and sing my heart out with the windows down without a care in the world. For some reason the song just hit the spot and my pain was now being shouted into the air as I sang.

“AND ALL THE THINGS YOU DID TO ME. YOU LIED, YOU LIED, YOU LIED, OHHHH.” I was pretty proud I was hitting all of the notes. I could sing, I was in the choir at school but I was never very talented. It’s not amazing just being able to hold a tune. My voice wasn’t unique or different, but it still could belt out my favourite songs in a way that wouldn’t hurt the ear.

Another fast paced song came on after the other one had finished. I bopped my head, dancing around the room like a crazy person. Almost bumping into multiple things around the room as I had my eyes closed as I danced. I changed my playlist to the one I most often played in the car, hitting shuffle. The song ‘Push up’, by the freestylers. It was one of the songs my mum always used to play in the car when we were driving. I was little but still sang along with her. When I got older I actually listened to the lyrics, I was horrified I was singing it in front of my mum who also belted it out in the car. Now I play it when I want a good time. Mum had good music taste. I don't know what dance moves I was doing, my body just moved to the beat. I did that one move where I moved my chest up and down pretending it was being pulled by my hand. Shaking my ass like the song said. I breathlessly sang and danced, a bright smile on my face.

“PUSH UP, YOUR BODY, YOUR BODY NEXT TO MINE, I GOTTA MAKE THAT SEXY BOOTY MINE, AND SHAKE IT, BABY, SHAKE THAT ASS, I LOVE IT WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE GETTING NASTY!” I panted as I moved, forgetting how tiring dancing was. I spun in a circle, a group of men watched me, I finished my turn, facing the way I was originally. A group of men watching me? I looked over my shoulder, surely I had just imagined it. Nope they were there, a group of Easy men looking thoroughly entertained. I turned away from them cringing, how much did they see. I quickly slipped the headphone out of my ear and pocketed it. I slowly turned around to face the men. As I did so they started clapping, they all grinned from ear to ear. There in front of me stood Lieb, Babe, Grant, Web, and George.

“How long have you been standing there?” I asked, hoping they had just arrived.

“We had come when you were singing that song about lying.” George grinned. “It went like you lied, you lied.” He sang. That was like three songs ago.

“But we heard someone singing so we all came to see who it was. Turned out to be you.” Babe chuckled. I didn’t think they could hear me, but I guess I was singing loudly.

“My favourite song was that last one.” Lieb smirked, of course he liked that one the prick. The image of me shaking my ass came into my head, they had all seen it.

“What was that move that you were doing?” Grant asked, putting his hands on his knees and shaking his butt left to right.

“Should I teach it to you?” I joked, trying to not sink into the floor from embarrassment. They all nodded laughing, “Wait, really?” I asked.

“Yeah I want to dance like that, it looked different. I don’t think I have seen any of the moves you just did.” George grinned at me. “What’s it called? The move?” He asked.

“Twerking.” I laughed as the men looked at me puzzled, they tried out the name themselves, a mutter of the word “twerking” filled the room. I laughed at them.

I gathered the men in front of me, they shook their arms and legs loose like they were going to run a race. I laughed at them, they were so eager to learn, who was I to say no.

“Ok, stand with your feet shoulder width apart, and then lean forward putting your hands on your knees.” I was trying to keep my composure, why did they all look so serious. Their concentrating faces on, they followed my instruction. They looked like they were trying to catch their breath after running. “Ok now you just move your pelvis up and down.” They all tried, looking like cats about to throw up. I cracked up watching the five men try their hardest.

“I can’t do it. What is it supposed to look like again?” Grant asked, standing up straight scratching his head. I got into the same pose as them, moving my pelvis up and down in a smooth motion. They all looked very impressed.

“I can’t do that.” Babe groaned. I laughed at his pouting face.

“Arch your back and then relax it.” I did the motion again for them. This is one of the weirdest things I think I have ever done. Not in my wildest dreams would I imagine teaching five WW2 soldiers how to twerk.

I watched the rest of the men trying, all doing very odd interpretations of the dance move. George just bent and unbent his leg, bobbing up and down. Grant leant forward but moved his butt from left to right like a dog wagging its tail. Babe hunched his shoulders up and down like he was excessively shrugging. Lieb was impressively very good at it, “Ok Lieb!” I pretended to make it rain dollar bills over him. I looked over to Webster who just looked entirely lost, like a weird caterpillar his whole body moved. “Oh Web.” I laughed at the man, he just stared at me with his blue eyes.

“Here, when I do it only my butt moves, everything else stays in place.” I said turning around to show him, he stepped closer and really focussed in on the move. Trying it again, he still didn’t get it.

“Look here.” I placed his hand on my lower back, as did the move, “See my back stays still.”

“What is going on?” I heard from the doorway, looking over to see Don watching us. His eyes set on Web and I. He looked pissed. “Web mind taking your hand off her ass.” My eyes widened, of course he was pissed. The position Web and I were in didn’t look very good. Me bent over in front of him with my butt out and him with his hand on my lower back. I stood up, stepping away from the man. The other Easy men in the room looked uncomfortable as well. Don glared at Web and I.

“I was just teaching them a dance move.” I tried to explain. He huffed, turning on his heel and marching out of the room. The men watched me gauging my reaction. I was so mad.

“Shut up!” I snarled, the men looked offended, they hadn’t said anything but I could feel it. The looks they were giving me said it all, they didn’t need to say anything. They looked uncomfortable, like walking in on a lovers quarrel. I followed after Don, letting my anger get the better of me. I caught up to him on the street.

“Stop acting like you care!” I yelled at him. He turned to face me. “What? You want to push me away and then get mad at me for talking to someone else. You don’t get to do that! Stop fucking with my head!” I shouted at him. I panted from my rage that raced through my body, how dare he say he doesn’t care and then act like this, it was making my head spin.

He stomped towards me, grabbing me by the arm. He dragged me into one of the houses. “Let go! Let go of me!” I tried to pull out of his grip but he was stronger than me. He shut the door behind him, I wrenched free of his grasp. I tried to move past him and leave, but he blocked the door. “What do you want from me? I don’t have the cash for the hours you babysat me, sorry!” I spat angrily.

“Stop it!” He growled. “Stop acting like this!”

I scoffed astonished, “Are you kidding! All I wanted was to check on you. You were avoiding me, I wanted to check if you were ok? I know you’re hurting too! Those boys meant so much to you! I just wanted to care for you how you did for me. It goes both ways! You’re allowed to hurt!” I told him, his face dark, I could see the pain etched into his features.

“It’s fine, you don’t care for me the way I do you. But I still care about you, even though you hurt me so much. I can’t turn them off. If you can’t talk to me about it, that's fine, but at least talk to someone!” His features softened.

“I do care for you! Of course I do! It’s just been so much! I can’t process it, I’m so busy, I feel like I have the weight of these men on my shoulders, they have expectations of me, I feel responsible for them. If they get hurt it’s my fault!” He rambles on, it all floods out of his mouth, like opening a dam.

“I don’t have time to think about Skip and Alex or Buck or Bill! I knew I would if I talked to you, I knew if I just spoke to you for a second that it would all come out.” He takes a breath as he spills the truth.

“So I avoided you. I’m sorry Em.” He scrubs his hand over his face, sighing.

“I didn’t mean what I said the other day either. I’m so sorry I hurt you. It killed me to see you so upset, and that I was the one who did that.” I listened to him, it hurt me to see the agony on his face. He walks forward standing closer to me.

“You are not an obligation! You never have been, ever! ” He says, taking my face in his hands, lifting my head to look into his eyes. “I choose you! I will always choose you.” He pauses looking deeply into my eyes. My hands reach up holding onto his arms that still cup my face.

“I love you.” I uttered softly, it was barely audible to my own ears, but he heard me.

It happened so quickly, I couldn’t even process what had happened. Don kissed me. His lips found mine. He kissed me so deeply with so much desire. It was like gasping for air after coming up from the water. I didn’t know how much I needed him, wanted him. His mouth moved against mine, hungrily tasting me. I kissed him back with the same intensity. Enjoying the way his lips felt on mine, like we were made for each other. My stomach clenched, the butterflies swirling around inside. I wrapped my arms around his neck pulling him flush with me. His hands moved to my back and held me tightly. I opened my mouth as he deepened the kiss, his tongue finding mine. I tangled my fingers through the hair that peaked out from under his beanie at the base of his neck. It was like I was addicted, I couldn’t stop myself from kissing him. The taste of his lips on mine, his familiar scent that filled my senses, his hands that roamed around my body, the sound of him moaning into my mouth as we kissed. He pulled back, I whimpered, needing his mouth back on mine.

“I love you.” Don smiled down at me, my heart swelled, I grinned at him. He placed another gentle kiss on my lips, letting it linger before pulling away.

“Do you forgive me?” He asked.

“Hmmm? I don’t know, I think maybe if you kissed me again, I could potentially forgive you.” He laughed, placing a kiss on my lips.

“How about now?” He smirked.

“Maybe another one?” I said playfully. He leant forward placing kisses all over my face in quick succession. I giggled as he assaulted me with his lips. He placed the last one on my lips, so gentle and sweet I could melt.

“What the hell were you teaching the guys when I walked in?” He asked, his eyebrow quirked. I flushed, burying my face in his jacket.

“Nothing.” I mumbled into his clothes. His hand found my chin, tilting it up to look him in the eyes. “I was teaching them a dance they caught me doing.” I said giggling, thinking back to all of their weird moves they had done while I was teaching them.

“What was the dance?” I smiled and laughed. He looked confused at why it was so funny.

“I’ll show you another time.” I gave him a wink, he looked at me curiously. “Don, it’s not your fault if those men get hurt. You know that?” I asked, the conversation turning more serious. I took his face into my hands, my thumbs brushing along his skin gently. “I understand carrying all that responsibility, trust me. And I know it’s easier said than done as well. But we can’t let their deaths haunt us forever, all we did was try our best.” He nodded, still wrapped in each other's arms. I pulled him in, hugging him tightly. “We can have a break hopefully, since we are being moved off the line.” I smiled, thinking about how the men didn’t have patrol tonight and that we were leaving tomorrow. It was so exciting.

The door to the house swung open, Don and I jumped apart in fright. George, who was peeking his head in the door, wryly grinned. “Sorry to interrupt you two, but grubs up.” We smiled at the cheeky man. Following him. Don and I kept sharing glances, our faces flushing pink. Thinking back to the moment we had shared. I kept giggling happily, feeling ecstatic.

We made our way into the basement, the rest of 2nd platoon already there. I spotted Lieb who watched us enter. I came in first smiling, with a shy looking Malarkey in tow. His eyebrows raised as he smirked at me. I walked over to him. “Ah, I wondered where you disappeared too.” He teased me.

“Shut up.” I laughed, bumping into him.

“Are you going to sing us a song?” Babe asked, his mouth full of food.

“No, I am not!” I said, crossing my arms over my chest.

“Or what about some more dance moves?” Grant teased. I picked up a cloth that laid on the table in front of me hurling it at the man, smacking him in the face as we all laughed. I walked over to where the cloth landed, bending down to pick it up.

“Ow!” I cried holding my back, pain evident on my face. I looked up to see all of the men looking at me worried and concerned. I slid my hand from my back, my hands on my knees.

“EHHH!” I said as I shook my ass laughing. The men’s faces changed from worried, to confused, to amused. “Got you suckers!” I said standing up, Grant shook his head.

“I still have no idea how you do that?” I patted him on the shoulder, still laughing.

The rest of the night passed quickly, it was like Christmas had come early. I was so excited for tomorrow I could hardly sleep, and when I did I had definitely fallen asleep smiling.

We packed up our gear and made our way to the trucks, ready to move off the line. Lt. Jones had been promoted and was leaving us, he shook our hands as we wished him good luck on his future endeavours. We climbed into the back of the truck, Don helping to pull me up. He sat beside each other, our hands secretly held by our sides. I watched Web approach the truck, going to climb up by himself, Lieb stuck his hand out to offer assistance. I smiled knowing that Lieb finally came around to liking the man. I watched as the small town faded into the distance and wondered what might be ahead for us next. I knew whatever happened that Don and I would face it together.

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Chapter 24

#band of brothers #band of brothers fanfic #hbo war #donald malarkey #emily lane #emarkey #band of brothers imagine #fanfic #joe toye #dick winters #bill guarnere

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deus-ex-mona · 1 year ago

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yeah it's them again, ✨izumo edition✨

Aizo: Cheerful and athletic. During their visit to Izumo Shrine, he said “I will definitely become an idol who’ll not lose to anyone else, so please cheer me on.” when he was making his prayers.

Q: What feature(s) of Izumo made the biggest impression on you?

Aizo: It goes without saying that the shrines and temples were impressive, but I also climbed to the top of a lighthouse known as the Hinomisaki Lighthouse. I heard that it’s the tallest lighthouse in Japan, and the view from the observation deck at the top was amazing. You can see the entire Sea of Japan from up there. I hope that everyone would be able to give climbing to the top of the lighthouse a try.

Yujiro: Mild-mannered and polite. During their visit to Izumo Shrine, he said “Thank you for watching over me every day. I’ll continue to devote myself to my work.” when he was making his prayers.

Q: What feature(s) of Izumo made the biggest impression on you?

Yujiro: I guess it’d be Izumo soba, their local delicacy. It’s known as Warigo Soba, and the soba is served in three stacked tiers of round bowls, along with condiments and dipping sauce on the side. It was the first time that I had ever eaten this style of soba, and I found it to be delicious. This style of soba seems to have been perfected back when people started to eat soba as a packed meal. The origin story of the meal was also really interesting to listen to.

The Tourism Ambassadors of Izumo: Up Close and Personal with LIPxLIP!

Congratulations on being appointed as the tourism ambassadors of Izumo! How do you feel about it?

Yujiro: Through this collaboration, I learned that Izumo City has a very deep connection to the history of Japan, with the famous Izumo Shrine and numerous historic shrines and temples being found within the city. As such, I feel that it’s a great honour to have been appointed as the tourism ambassadors of Izumo City.

Aizo: You know, Izumo City is where shito, our producer from HoneyWorks, spent his youth, so I wonder if that connection to him led us to our appointments as its tourism ambassadors thanks to the Matchmaking shrines in the area. I’d like for us to show off the charms of Izumo City to many people as LIPxLIP, its tourism ambassadors.

What are your plans for this collaboration event in Izumo? Also, how did your voice recording go?

Aizo: Starting on the 26th of January, “Izumo Day”, we will commence a digital stamp rally called “Touring Izumo City with LIPxLIP” via an app, which will play our voices as you visit famous spots in Izumo. The recording was a ton of fun too. We learned a lot as we voiced our introductions about each of the featured spots.

Yujiro: There are many stories about places and people that are straight out of Japanese History textbooks, so I think there are things to be enjoyed about the tour, aside from our dialogue. Of course, there are snippets of our personal conversations included in the recordings. Like when I went into a footbath with Aizo. Right, Aizo?

Aizo: You mean that time when you chased me all the way to the edge of the footbath, huh?!

Yujiro: Is that what happened? Ahahaha (laughs).

I heard that the two of you reunited with an unexpected person while you were sightseeing in Shimane, while you were there for a tour?

Aizo: Yup, we did. We bumped into him by chance. His name’s Nagisa. You know about him, don’t you?

Yujiro: Nagisa came to our concert too. I think he became a fan of LIPxLIP too, don’t you?

Aizo: Yeah. He definitely became our fan. No doubt about it.

Yujiro: We’ll confirm it with him when we see him again.

HoneyWorks’s 6th album, which is set to be released in March, will include a recording of the Special Sunny Party (SunnyPa) Live on a bonus disc. You guys performed Shin Jidai for the first time at SunnyPa. How was it?

Aizo: Shin Jidai was a song that our seniors, Full Throttle4, invited us to collaborate on. It felt like a brand new challenge to us, as it was a song that we would not usually get the chance to sing or dance to as LIPxLIP. As such, I got the sense that we were performing it with a rather fresh feeling.

Yujiro: Our seniors were singing and dancing fairly seriously, so we were desperately doing our best so as to not fall behind them. Just like Aizo had said, I, too, felt like we had performed with a fresh feeling. And, through this performance we got to experience a sense of something that we didn’t yet have, which we are hoping that we would be able to apply in our next performance.

Aizo: The Julieta who watched the concert loved it. They said that their hearts pounded when they saw Yujiro acting all aggressively confident, since he doesn’t do that often. Right, Yujiro?

Yujiro: Weren’t there comments about how scary my face looked? I haven’t watched the recording yet, but I wonder if I did alright.

Aizo: They sure were honest, huh (laughs). Please do check out the recording, okay?

During the emcee portion with Full Throttle4 (FT4), you guys imitated each other again, didn’t you? What are your thoughts on FT4’s imitations of you two, and how did you feel about trying to imitate them again?

Aizo: Let’s not talk about the imitations! We were just swept up in FT4’s bad vibes, really. We didn’t even agree to do that beforehand, and yet they suddenly sprung it on us…

Yujiro: That's the one thing I wish they’d stop asking us to do. It’s embarrassing, regardless of whether we succeed or fail at imitating them, and it’ll destroy LIPxLIP’s image, you know? (laughs)

Aizo: Wait, don’t tell me that emcee portion was recorded too?

Yujiro: It seems to be so.

Aizo: Seriously…? I wonder if it’ll appeal to our Julieta, though…

Lastly, LIPxLIP, please give a message to your Julieta who support you!

Yujiro: We’re truly happy to have been granted the opportunity to bring happiness to all of you Julieta, right from the start of the year, in the form of our collaboration with Izumo City. I’d like us to continue to expand the scope of our activities as LIPxLIP and meet lots of you along the way, Julieta.

Aizo: This year has only just begun, and I hope to make it a fun year with all of you Julieta. Please look forward to seeing a different and more mature LIPxLIP as compared to how we were like last year. See y’all around, Julieta!

Yujiro: See ya!

Yujiro: I’d like us to expand the scope of our activities as LIPxLIP and meet lots of you along the way, Julieta.

Aizo: I'll be really happy if our feelings of gratitude to our Julieta have been conveyed properly.

#aighttttt goodbye lxl im not tling any more of your nonsense for the rest of the month im all lxl-ed out #ngl i had to stop and rewatch the shinjidai performance for a bit bc of how they were describing it #y e a h it still isn't as cool as how they're making it seem here lmaoooooooo #but with each passing second of watching the vid... i found myself thinking with increasing certainty that...#...dai moved just like one of those wacky inflatable arm tube men in that dance i m s o r r y #anyways it's midnight so im queuing this for a more reasonable time of day goodbyeeeeeeeeee #染BODY ONCE TOLD ME—#lxl tl things

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minisnacc · 1 year ago

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First time ever writing something like this on Tumblr, so it’s most likely hella messy because this is just a very IMPROMPTU BRAINSTORM :( I also got the German translations for stuff from a friend who lives in Germany :) ((he says, and I quote, if you need anything in German I’ll be your guy))

Anyways,

Imagine ‘Teenage Dirtbag’ Loser!Konig, Yknow, the kinda guy that’s like ‘I listen to rock hurrhurr no one understands me hurrhurr’ the ‘NEVER interacts with anyone (other than his best friend Hong Jin) ESPECIALLY women’ trope.

Like imagine König with a wardrobe FULL of band shirts, and ripped tank tops, and he’s obviously got a bass guitar, his dorm room is filled with band posters and he has medium length hair, and he like, never ever interacts with women cause ‘he’s not like that’ ((sure bud, sure)) and he only ever listens to rock and metal to ‘drown the voices out’ ((definitely not cause he’s edgy or anything 🙄🙄🙄))

Sees you, who has the smile of an angel, and at first tells himself he’s DEFINITELY not enamoured by you, your laugh, giggles, the way you speak, the way you just… are.

“Agh, nein, I’ve just been lonely, these are just delusions, why the hell would she be into me anyway,” shakes it off and goes back to his dorm and goes to sleep thinking about you (because well, he was… trying NOT to think about you).

Sees you repeatedly on campus, like as if you’re TAUNTING him with your presence, and he then begins actively avoiding the places you frequent, like the library, the canteen, even starts sitting on the COMPLETE opposite end of the classes you share with him, to the point where even you notice it.

Now you.

You, who have been hypnotised by this behemoth of a man wandering around campus, in his band shirts (and your personal favourite, his tank tops, cause, you know, his big meaty arms…), and think to yourself that someone as cool and attractive as he is would NEVER be into you anyway.

The way he always chuckles deeply at what his friend says, this Hong Jin guy (who you think you kinda have a crush on too, ugh, why are there so many cute guys on campus?), and the way he flips his hair out of the way when it gets into his face, sooooo majestically… (okay, so you might be slightly delusional, so what?)

One day you notice he starts… disappearing from the campus… like there’s a lack of presence from him. How? He’s like, the Hulk 2.0, HOW IS HE GONE??

So you start actively going out of your way to ‘bump’ into him. You go to places where you think he’d be on campus - to classes you KNOW he has, with the excuse that you’re there to say hi to a friend, or to the vending machines scattered throughout the compound, cause he loves his canned drinks, and even to the GYM, just lurking around long enough till the staff ask if you’d like a membership (to which you sheepishly decline, then scurry away).

Two whole weeks go by and you begin to think he doesn’t like you, and in fact, think he HATES you.

Then you see Hong Jin, by a vending machine, alone. You stare at him for a good minute, contemplating on whether to just approach him outright and ask him about König. You vigorously shake your head, hype yourself up, and approach him at an alarmingly quick pace, to which he notices, and is startled when you abruptly stop right in front of him, interrupting him as he chooses his drink.

“Jin, right? Nice to meet you, does König hate me?” You ask, almost rapping it like as if you had 1 second left to live, eyes wide and brows furrowed.

Jin simply looks at you, flabbergasted, so shocked because that was NOT what he expected to be asked today. Or by anyone. Or by YOU. The girl König had been talking about, the one he said he thought looked ‘kinda cute’, which, he never ever says, cause he’s way too busy raving about new albums or songs or his new PR at the gym.

He chuckles, which then turns into a laugh, as he looks at you through forming tears. You feel like a puppy with its tail tucked in between its legs, shy, scared that you pissed him off with your (unintentional) direct attitude.

“You’re funny, you know that?” Jin says, wiping away a tear, his laughs tapering off. “To answer your question, no, he doesn’t hate you,” he smiles, a glint in his eyes… a hint of deviousness, you decipher.

“Let me let you in on a little secret,” he leans in close, to your ear, and takes a quick glance to his left and right, “Reason he’s not been around is cause he reeeeeaaaaaaaalllllyyyyyyyyyy likes you,” he drags the word out, taunting you almost, and you jerk your head back and look at him dead in the eyes.

“Really?” You whisper, a smile creeping on your lips.

So this guy liked you this entire time? Who would’ve thought?!

“Yeah at one point he couldn’t shut up about you,” he grins, gaze shifting behind you, his voice now louder than before, “Oh, and don’t tell him I told you this, but he LoooooOooOOOOves thinking about you at night,” Jin leans backwards to an upright standing position, and smirks in the direction behind you.

You turn, and see Konig standing behind you, eyes blown wide, mouth slightly agape, frowning. You can’t tell if he’s shocked, mad, flustered, or all three.

“Oh, right, and I think you’re real cute too,” like pouring gasoline on an already ABSOLUTELY BLAZING DUMPSTER FIRE, you see König’s face shift to that of anger.

You can physically see him tense up and turn red, and the once stoic giant you (thought) you knew explodes, “HÄ?! DIGGA WAS MACHST DU?!” he practically screams.

You flinch, instinctually, from the giant getting mad, like he’ll actually charge straight through you to get to his best friend. König notices when he glances over to you, and loosens his body a little, as well as his expression, but still maintains a glare at Jin.

The Korean man taps you twice on your shoulder, dragging your attention back to him, and he winks at you, “good luck,” he clicks his tongue twice, and promptly RUNS away (rightfully so, or he would’ve been ripped apart by the angry Austrian), leaving you and König alone together.

You’re frozen in place. Don’t even turn around to look at your crush. Well, more like can’t.

His best friend just admitted to the fact that he likes you… like, REALLY likes you. Your mind races with so many thoughts, like, what did Jin mean by König thinking about you at night?? And why did he not shut up about you??? Is this real?? Is this a dream??

A loud sigh interrupts your train of thought, urging you to look behind you.

“Sorry,” König says so quietly it almost sounded like a whisper. He looked like a kicked puppy. Then, a moment of awkward silence. Your eyes dart EVERYWHERE but at him, you don’t even know if you can bring yourself to look at him, such a pitiful sight, but you do, and your heart aches. His eyes are glued to the ground.

It looks like he thinks you hate him, almost like as if he’s holding back tears and ready to beg for your forgiveness for being such a fucking creep, for being such a loser in love with someone like you, and you deserve someone soooo much more manly and cool and handsome and actually likes something other than dumb songs and dumb drinks and dumb gymming routines and…

“Hey, it’s alright,” you break the silence, approaching him slowly, “If it makes you feel any better I really like you too,” you smile softly, offering comfort. You look up to the poor man, into his eyes, and take his hand gently.

You wipe his shame away with those words, and there is a spark in his eyes, which you notice.

“Wirklich?”

“Yeah, wouldn’t believe how much I think about you too,” you blush, now you’re shy, because this is way too much for one small meeting. You’re pouring out intimate secrets to him, ABOUT HIM, while he very very very intently listens.

Again, there’s silence, and it’s a little awkward, considering now you both are in close proximity, being intimate, your neck craned upwards just to be able to maintain eye contact with this giant (HES a tree, you swear).

“So, uh,” König gulps, now taking your hands in his, “Wanna come have dinner with me?” He asks, slight blush dusting his cheeks, “At… my place?” He smiles.

#konig x you #konig x reader #konig cod #konig headcanons

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sweetdreamsjeff · 6 months ago

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Amazing 'Grace': How Australia Gave Jeff Buckley His Biggest Hit

23 August 2024 | 12:00 pm | Jeff Jenkins

“In that moment, Jeff Buckley became a superstar in Australia.”

“I’ve got something I’d like to play you,” the woman from the overseas label announced.

It’s the start of 1994, and I’m at a Sony sales conference on the Gold Coast. We’ve been running through the major priorities for the year – Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Pearl Jam and C+C Music Factory – when the representative from the company’s New York office mentions a new signing.

“I’ll play it during morning tea,” she says.

As she pressed play on the CD, you could hear a Mojo Pin drop. The Sony staff – music fans, grizzled music veterans and cynical indie types – were all united. No one had to say a word. The look on everyone’s face said it all: “This guy is special.”

In that moment, Jeff Buckley became a superstar in Australia.

Hearing him sing Hallelujah for the first time was a revelation. Nothing needed to be said. It was as if Sony’s Australian staff made a pact: we’re going to make this record a hit.

Jeff Buckley’s debut album, Grace, was released in the US 30 years ago today. The album’s Australian release came the following month, when Inpress editor Andrew Watt put Buckley on the cover and eloquently explained the album’s appeal. “Every now and then a new artist comes along whose sheer quality and artistic vision is so obvious that you just know you’re going to be listening to him for a long, long time.

“Grace is an album that seems so complete and so vivid in its expression that it’s almost an insult to try and deconstruct it and examine it to try and find out what makes it work.

“Probably the highest compliment that can be paid to Grace is that it’s timeless. It’s a brilliant album now, it would have been 10 years ago, and it will be in 10 years’ time.”

The record company bio that accompanied Grace had a section where the label listed what format it fitted. Grace ticked most of the boxes – alternative, AOR, easy listening, heavy metal, jazz, jazz/rock and “all other”. But Buckley responded: “That’s all just useless typing … everything it’s not, it is.

“What is it?” he added. “It’s just American music.”

And yet, Grace didn’t connect with American audiences. It peaked at number 149 in the US. Australia was the only country where it landed in the Top 10.

The American critics were initially unsure of what to make of the album. “Jeff Buckley sounds like a man who doesn’t yet know what he wants to be,” stated the three-star review in Rolling Stone.

John Encarnacao had no such reservations in his four-and-a-half-star review in Juice. “What kind of person wouldn’t like this disc?” he asked. “Maybe someone afraid of involvement. Or someone unprepared for music to penetrate their outer layers. Or anyone who rolls their eyes at the names Joni Mitchell, Neil Young or Sinead O’Connor. Grace is one of those sacred recordings.”

Grace received some play on US college radio but was shunned by the mainstream stations. “The songs were too long, and they didn’t have any hooks,” Buckley explained, relaying the complaints of the American radio programmers.

“It’s all a question of taste. I have no idea. I don’t know how their minds work, and if I ever do find out, I’ll hang myself from the nearest tree. I’m not really bitter about it at all.

“It’s a total crapshoot dealing with radio, so it doesn’t matter. Just so long as people come to the shows and enjoy it and get what they want, I can’t ask for more.”

And that’s exactly what Australians did – they embraced Buckley live. That first Jeff Buckley tour in 1995 is referred to in the same hushed, reverential tones as The Beatles’ 1964 visit and Nirvana’s shows in 1992.

You had to be there.

In Melbourne, Buckley did three shows at small venues – the Lounge, the Prince Patrick Hotel and the Athenaeum Theatre, as well as a set live to air on Triple R’s rooftop.

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Amazing 'Grace': How Australia Gave Jeff Buckley His Biggest Hit

23 August 2024 | 12:00 pm | Jeff Jenkins

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“In that moment, Jeff Buckley became a superstar in Australia.”

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“I’ve got something I’d like to play you,” the woman from the overseas label announced.

“I’ll play it during morning tea,” she says.

In that moment, Jeff Buckley became a superstar in Australia.

Hearing him sing Hallelujah for the first time was a revelation. Nothing needed to be said. It was as if Sony’s Australian staff made a pact: we’re going to make this record a hit.

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“Grace is an album that seems so complete and so vivid in its expression that it’s almost an insult to try and deconstruct it and examine it to try and find out what makes it work.

“Probably the highest compliment that can be paid to Grace is that it’s timeless. It’s a brilliant album now, it would have been 10 years ago, and it will be in 10 years’ time.”

“What is it?” he added. “It’s just American music.”

And yet, Grace didn’t connect with American audiences. It peaked at number 149 in the US. Australia was the only country where it landed in the Top 10.

“It’s all a question of taste. I have no idea. I don’t know how their minds work, and if I ever do find out, I’ll hang myself from the nearest tree. I’m not really bitter about it at all.

“It’s a total crapshoot dealing with radio, so it doesn’t matter. Just so long as people come to the shows and enjoy it and get what they want, I can’t ask for more.”

You had to be there.

In Melbourne, Buckley did three shows at small venues – the Lounge, the Prince Patrick Hotel and the Athenaeum Theatre, as well as a set live to air on Triple R’s rooftop.

“His shows caused the biggest buzz in town since the Stones were here in March,” I wrote in Inpress.

I took my friend Nova Weetman to the Athenaeum show. She wrote about it in her recent book, Love, Death & Other Scenes. “I was down the front,” she recalled, “weeping as the strains of Hallelujah lifted us up.”

Buckley was a potent mix of Jackson Browne and Jimmy Page. He had the heart of a poet. And he could rock like a god. As one Rolling Stone live review said, “The punchline is, Jeff Buckley can get away with anything.”

Interviewing Buckley was no easy task. He seemed troubled, knowing that the interviewer would inevitably ask about his father.

Jeff’s mother, Mary, had been briefly married to a then-unknown Tim Buckley. When he was eight, Jeff spent a week with his dad; apart from that, he never knew him. Two months after that meeting, Tim Buckley died of a heroin overdose.

The young Buckley loved record stores. “They’re a really emotional place,” he said. “All my life, I tried to work in one, but they never accepted me, and now I’m in them. I go to Tower Records and see all these lives in the bins.”

He noted the sad irony of his record being filed next to his father’s catalogue. “Separated all our lives, and now I’m right there in the bin next to him.”

David Browne, the author of Dream Brother, the biography of Jeff and Tim Buckley, noted that the younger Buckley “was painfully aware of the mistakes Tim had made in his life, and struggled to avoid them”, though “the weight of acclaim helped undo them both”.

That first Australian tour sent Grace into the Top 10. I remember a backstage scene when a Sony rep informed Buckley that the album had gone gold and was headed for platinum. “But do I really want that?” the artist responded.

In Sydney, he visited Bondi Beach at sunrise. “I tried to swim, but the water was too cold,” he smiled. “My nuts totally contracted into my body.”

Thirty years after it was released, Grace has gone eight-times platinum in Australia, and it remains a consistent seller.

Buckley returned in February 1996 for bigger shows, forging a rare connection with Australian audiences.

On the morning show on ABC radio in Melbourne, Raf Epstein has a popular segment called Changing Tracks, where a listener talks about a song that was playing at a pivotal moment in their life.

Recently, Julie recounted her memories of driving down Puckle Street in Moonee Ponds in September 1995. “I was listening to triple j,” she wrote. “I had just given birth to my only daughter … and I was in a loveless marriage. I was feeling extremely emotional and desperate. My husband had not wanted to be a father and was reluctant to involve himself in parenting.”

Like Tim Buckley decades before, Julie’s husband said, “I don’t want this.”

She realised she would be better off on her own.

“Listening to the radio that morning, I heard Jeff Buckley for the first time,” Julie continued. “Singing with a lilting, powerful, emotionally charged voice, he seemed to soothe my pain, and it lifted me out of the hole I had found myself in. I bought the CD that day, and his music supported me through probably the worst 12 months of my life.

“Every time I hear Jeff singing, he reminds me of the strength I found in the most vulnerable time in my life. For that, I am grateful.”

In that first interview with Inpress, Buckley revealed his desire to write a new American national anthem. “I hate the national anthem,” he declared. “The song itself is about having kicked somebody’s arse in war with bombs and stuff. Someday, there will be a [new] song, and hopefully, if I live into old age, I’ll make a stab at it.

“That will be my crowning achievement if I can replace that awful thing called the national anthem.”

He also said he hoped that Grace would be timeless. “If I make it into old age, I’d like to be able to visit it and have it still be true. The things I love the best are very timeless.”

Buckley highlighted Bob Dylan, Patti Smith, Duke Ellington and Allen Ginsberg. His favourite Ginsberg poem was Kaddish, which includes the line:

And how Death is that remedy all singers dream of.

Sadly, Jeff Buckley didn’t make it to old age. On May 29, 1997, while in Memphis working on the follow-up to Grace, he went for a swim in the Wolf River. His body was found on June 4.

Jeff Buckley never got to write that new national anthem. But one of his wishes came true: Grace is timeless.

In that first Australian interview, Buckley mused about his second album. “I’ll make an album that’s so not me,” he predicted. “But it will be me.” He even revealed he had a title for the record: My Sweetheart The Drunk.

The posthumous album Sketches for My Sweetheart The Drunk was released the year after Buckley’s passing.

“The songs that would have been My Sweetheart The Drunk (as well as all the other recorded material he left behind) are the true ‘remains’ of Jeff Buckley, not the speck of dust that was pulled out of the Wolf River,” his mother Mary Guibert said.

The Sketches album entered the Australian charts at number one. It was Buckley’s first number-one anywhere in the world.

Guibert also compiled the 2000 live album Mystery White Boy, which included five songs from the Palais Theatre in St Kilda, as well as Buckley’s cover of Big Star’s Kanga-Roo, recorded at Sydney’s Phoenician Club.

The great tragedy of Jeff Buckley and the modern music business is that Grace was his only completed album.

In the liner notes for Sketches, Bill Flanagan wrote: “If the music business ran in the ’90s as it did in the ’60s, Jeff would have had five albums out … But Jeff loved searching more than arriving.”

By the time Tim Buckley died, aged 28, he had released nine studio albums. Jeff, who died at 30, released just one.

But then, we were blessed to have experienced Jeff Buckley’s genius. One perfect album and some magical live shows.

Hallelujah.

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