#and I'd like to bring it up to where I'm at

[kokii-omii]

Flight Fest Race Event Story (part 2)

part 1

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

[Shaftlands - Feather-Fair City]

🪽: Okay so everyone stay close together because the street get REALLY crowded in preparation for the flight fest

🫗: geez you think that even after living here for 6 years I'd get used to the crowds

🍎: so many people...

🍩: guess this event is no joke to the locals, they're all so hyped for it

🐈‍⬛: nyahaha! i can already smell the free food from here!

🦐: Grim don't you dare run off-

🪽: little grimmy you only get free food when we WIN the race

🫗: you mean IF we win the race

🦁: already lowering your expectations huh? i thought you had more guts than that

🫗: oh we're winning this thing, im just making sure we have all our options right, its called thinking ahead

🌼: Sounds more like pessimism to me

🫗: BEE??

🍎: who is she?

🪽: she's peyn's older sister Phoebe, but i didn't know she'd be here

🍩: she's quite the looker if im being honest

🫗: dude! not my sister, thats gross

🌼: you never even had a chance to begin with junior, so keep walking, we've got places to be

🫗: wait Bee why are you here, i thought grams was supposed to pick us up, i even sent her a text n stuff to tell her we'd be coming

🌼: did you really think grams knows how to use her phone?

🫗: fair point, she still thinks a computer mouse is the same thing as the animals

🌼: anyway enough chit chat, im here to take you guys to where you'll be staying for the rest of the week

🍎: how are we gonna get there? this place doesn't exactly look like you could fit a blastcycle in here

🍩: and nobody said we had to bring brooms

🪽: oh yeah no we gotta walk most of the time, but dont worry its not that far

🪽: our place is just up these stairs so it won't be a problem really

🫗: yeah for you....

🐈‍⬛:Mrah! thats a lot of steps...

🦁: im gonna wring your neck like a wet rag

🌼: they actually installed a bunch of escalators next to the steps so you guys dont have to worry your sweaty little heads about that

🍩: well thats a relief.., i was scared that id have to walk up all of that with all these bags

🪽: you guys are being dramatic, the stairs aren't even that bad

🦁&🍎&🍩: thats cuz you live here

[Feather-Fair City - Helio Hotel]

🌼: alright, here's the card to your suite, you all have your own rooms there and you guys can settle down or explore or whatever,

🌼: just be sure to meet me in the lobby by 4:30 so i can take all of you twerps to your fittings for the suits

🌼: there's food in the fridge, table, whatever go eat if you want to

🌼: if you have an emergency, call room service not me, so dont bother getting in touch with me until 4:30, later dorks

🍎: man your sister sure is something

🍩: i definitely see the resemblance

🦁: im out, nobody bother me til we go down the lobby

🐈‍⬛: guess even in a lively event as this Leona still decides he'd rather take a nap

🐈‍⬛: which means more food for me! nyahaha! cmon yuu!

🦐: its snack time!

🪽: i gtg to the lobby for a bit and get some stuff from my dad, he's gonna be dropping off some gear

🪽: you guys can walk around the hotel if you want, this place is pretty big anyway, the garden is pretty nice too,

🪽: i can give you guys a tour around the city if you want, we can go around and see the stalls and maybe eat some of the snacks they're selling, My treat!

🍩: if you're paying then I'm definitely going!

🍎: i wanna see too!

🫗: im calling my grandma first to see where she's at, maybe we can give her some of the snacks we buy if we see her

🪽: Good call, anyway brb I'll come get you guys when i get back, remember- Phoebe said we gotta be back in the lobby by 4:30 so she can take us to our fittings

*door closes*

🫗: should we take Leona-senpai with us?

🍩: nah leave him, he gets mad if you wake him up from his nap, we can bring him some snacks when we get back

🦐: we should probably leave him a note

🍎: i wonder if they have barbecue in one of the stalls...

🐈‍⬛: maybe they have tuna too...mmm

[Feather-Fair City - marketplace]

🍎: Wah! thats a lot of people!

🫗: maybe we should go tomorrow...

🍩: and miss out on the sale today?? are you kidding? im goin over there , see ya later! *fwee!*

🫗: Ruggie-senpai wait- *runs*

🍎: do we go follow them?

🪽: nah they'll be fine, if they get lost then they can go back to the hotel

🍎: *sniff* W-Whats that delicious smell!!

🐈‍⬛: *sniff sniff* Mrah! its coming from over there!

🪽: ah its chicken skewers! cmon guys I'll go buy you some

🪽: excuse me! four skewers please!

👤: coming right up!.......here ya go sonny four skewers hot and ready!

🪽: thank you! dig in guys!

🐈‍⬛&🍎:*nom*.....!!! ITS SO GOOD!

👤: haha! im glad you kids like it, you're here to watch the flight fest right?

🐈‍⬛: how'd ya know?

👤:we got a lot of people coming from all sorts of places just to see it

���: especially since word got out that the eldest son of the Nikos family will be the one racing instead

👤: and he hasn't made a public appearance in almost three years! can you imagine that?

🍎: yeah.. I wonder why...

🪽: *ahem* maybe its cuz he didn't wanna have others up in his BUSINESS *pinch*

🍎: ow! that hurts!

👤: now that i look at ya more, you kinda look like hi-

🪽: WELL- WOULD YOU LOOK AT THAT! its almost 4:30! haha- cmon guys lets go find Peyn and Ruggie and hope Ruggie doesn't mooch off Peyn- See ya mister! thanks for the skewers!

almost forgot to tag @pamist

---------------------------------------------------alright im gonna cut that off right there and save the rest for the next chapter

Part 3 (soon)

[dxmurewrites]

So Sweet

fluffy lil one shot

pairing: Paddy Mayne x Nurse!Reader

summary: Having found out it was Paddy's birthday, you took it upon yourself to get him a gift.

unedited

warnings: language, mentions of war, blood, medical language, mutual name calling, mutual attraction, fluffiness, kissing and mentions of alcohol.

let me know what you think!

_______

"What have ye got there?"

"A sweet," you answer with a mouthful, holding up a small packet in your hand as you lay on your trundle, the other hand behind your head. "Want one?"

Paddy stands with his hands on his hips, looking down at you with an eyebrow raised. The past couple of days had been quiet, the only injuries needing assessed being various sand sores and blistered skin.

"A sweet," he repeats, continue to stare with an amused expression. Paddy steps closer, smacking your foot gently, urging you to move over so he could sit down.

You do so, letting the man sit by your feet. He picks up your sock covered feet, resting them against his thighs as one of his hands rest on your calf. "And where did ye get those?"

"From the market," You grin, watching as Paddy's eyebrows furrow. He was almost always your escort when walking in the city, and he didn't remember waiting for you in any stalls. "That little shop that had the dog outside."

Paddy tries thinking back to your last trip in town, still not remembering any stops for sweets.

Upon seeing your grin, his smile closes, eyes narrowing as he begins massaging your leg. "I remember ye asking to stop there, but we didn't have time," He huffs out, hand sliding up and down your leg under your baggy pants in a gentle caress. "Ye went back?"

"Mm hm," your smile doesn't leave, seeing the Irishman confused. "When you and the boys were dealing with those American lads, I stepped out."

"By yourself." There it is.

"No, I had Withers," You quip back, chuckling loudly as Paddy gives you a pointed look. The two of you then look down, seeing the dog sleeping by your desk. "Best guard dog there is."

Paddy says your name lowly, almost in a warning. He still had a playful tone to him, and you knew he wasn't completely mad.

Truthfully you hadn't been completely far away, but he still didn't like the idea of you not being within arms reach.

You shrug, holding out the packet of sweets. "I'll let you have one if you don't get mad at me," you shake the packet for extra effect. "You can have the orange ones though, the pink and purple ones are mine."

He takes the packet from you, keeping eye contact as he takes a purple one anyway. Paddy grins, plopping the sweet into his mouth, going as far as to make little noises as he does so.

"Bastard." You nudge him with your foot, and he chuckles, reaching for another. He holds a pink one between his finger, looking it over before holding it out to you.

He holds the treat near your lips, and you reach out, taking it in your mouth gently. It was a sweet, almost intimate gesture, and the two of you smile at each other.

"You being all sweet on me because you're heading out tomorrow?" You ask, chewing on the lollie, deciding you may as well bring up the inevitable conversation.

Paddy and a few more of his men were leaving in the morning for a mission, somewhere you weren't allowed to follow. He would be back, he always came back, but that didn't stop you from worrying about the Irishman and your boys.

"I'm always sweet on ye," He reminds you, turning his head to look down at where you lay comfortably. His eyes follow every little move you make, memorising ever detail. "Just making sure ye don't forget it." You scoff playfully, nudging him again with your leg. "I'd never."

The two of you sit in a comfortable silence, sharing your packet of sweets. It was rare that you were given moments like this, and it pained you knowing it was only because the others were busy preparing for tomorrows mission.

"You'll be alright 'ere," Paddy mutters, just loud enough for you to hear. He sighs to himself, almost as if convincing himself that this camp was the safest place for you to be (as much as he'd prefer you be home, completely out of the country). "Only problem you'll have is missing me."

"Oh you are just so sure of yourself Robert Mayne," You scoff again, giggling as Paddy's nose scrunches upon hearing his real name on your lips. "'Course I'll miss you, got no one else here to annoy when you're gone."

"You?" He points at you with his ring finger before scratching at his chin. "Not sure if annoying is the right word, irritatin' maybe." Your mouth opens in mock shock, a fake gasp leaving your lips as Paddy grins from ear to ear.

God, you loved him.

And with the way he beamed at you, massaging at your legs as you lay on your cot, you knew he loved you too.

Even if the two of you had unconventional ways of showing it.

"Wait," You immediately sit up in your bed, pulling your legs off of Paddy's thighs. "Will you be back by next Friday?"

He shakes his head, a small frown at the question. "Following Tuesday they gather, why you thinkin' of Friday?"

"Your birthday," a grin graces your cheeks once again at the groan that leaves Paddy's mouth. "You think I'd forget?" "I want to know which bastard told ye," Truthfully, all you had done was read Paddy's medical file, as you did for everyone who graced your makeshift infirmary.

It passed the time, giving you little background information on the various soldiers who sort your help. "Ye don't have to worry 'bout that."

"Pfft, it's your birthday love," Paddy watches as you get up from your cot, brushing off any powdered sugar from your uniform from your shared sweets. "Gives me something to look forward too."

Your lieutenant continues watching you, eyes filled with humour and light as your bounce from box to box in the tent. He smiled as he saw your tongue poke out, clearly in deep thought as you look for something.

Withers watches from his little makeshift bed, the small dog sighing as he rolls over, continuing to snooze away the day.

"What're y-" "Shh, patience Paddy," you quip, bending down to open another box hiding under your work bench. "I knew I put it somewhere in here, ah! Here, thank god."

You turn around, seeing Paddy sprawled out on your cot, legs comfortably apart as he holds your pillow in his hands, resting against his stomach. "What ye got there?"

"Close your eyes."

"Ye gonna shoot me?" He asks quickly, but closes his eyes regardless.

Your eyes widen at his jest. "Jesus Christ Paddy," shaking your head, you continue walking forward, once again climbing onto the cot. Rather than sitting at the front like before, you take a spot on Paddy's lap, thighs pressed onto the side of his. "Keep 'em closed."

His hands immediately reach out, holding onto your waist to keep you from falling. The position was far from raunchy, seeing as one wrong move would send you both flying on the wire cot.

He huffs as you shimmy closer, one hand on his shoulder for leverage and the other in front of him, holding a small box. "Alright, you can open."

His eyes open slowly, blue eyes narrowing slightly at the playful expression on your face before they land on the box in your grasp.

His hands press further against your uniformed waist, adjusting the way you were sitting on thighs before he grabs the small wrapped item in your hand. "What's this?"

"Open it and you'll find out," you chuckle before quickly groaning as Paddy rattles the box, hearing something jostling around inside. "Too bad if it was glass, you idiot."

Paddy doesn't immediately open your gift, looking down at the box softly before looking back at the giddy expression on your face. He leans forward, pressing a kiss to your lips before you can even tell him off for not opening your present.

Your eyes close at the action, returning the kiss as Paddy reaches up, gently holding onto your cheek as his lips mould against yours before he pulls away slowly. "Ye didn't have to get me anything," He murmurs, inches from your lips. "Gone out of your way 'n all."

You shrugged, pecking his lips again as you pull away further, urging him once more to open your gift. "Didn't really go out of my way," You match his tone, soft and airy. "Got it the same time I got the sweets, only way I could shop without you breathing down my neck."

He chuckles at your quip. "Thought ye loved me breathing down your neck sugar pie'," You didn't miss his innuendo, pushing at his shoulder playfully. "But seriously, you spent money on me?" "Would you rather I stole it?"

Paddy's lips open again, to which you shook your head, already guessing his answer. "Just open it Paddy."

Seeing that you wouldn't budge, he accepts defeat, carefully manoeuvring his hands so you could sit comfortably without his help.

With a hand wrapped around his shoulder, the other in your lap, Paddy carefully opens the gift, peeling back the shifty layer of paper you had found to wrap it.

Opening the lid, Paddy's eyes widen, seeing the silver pocket watch that rest in the middle. He looks at you through his lashes, eyebrow raised as you sheepishly smile.

"If you don't like it, we could take it back maybe and g-"

He cuts you off, tutting as he grabs the back of your head gently, pressing another kiss to your cheek. "No, no, shut it, it's nice," He shakes his head, looking you in disbelief. "I just, how did ye know I needed one?" "I noticed you had one a couple weeks ago that was all smashed, figured you'd want a new one," You shrug, suddenly feeling worried about your choice of gift. "It ah, it has something on the back too if you press the top."

Upon hearing your words, Paddy pulls the watch from it's box, flipping it around and seeing a bare back. He eyes you again, and you roll your eyes, reaching out to hold his hands in yours as you press the button on the top of the pocket watch.

The back opens up, revealing a black and white picture of the two of you. Your arms were wrapped around his neck, your cheeks pressed against each others as you both grinned, both parties not staring at the camera at all.

"Ye look beautiful," Paddy immediately says as he gazes at the picture, smiling down at the memory that had been taken months prior. "I look drunk."

"You were," You chuckle, resting your forehead against his as you both peer down at the photo in his new watch. "Think we both were actually, didn't even see John pull the camera out,"

You watch as Paddy continues looking at the picture, his thumb reaching out to stroke over where your face beams back at him.

"It was either that photo or the one where I threw a middle finger, didn't think you'd want that looking back at you when you're out there fighting for us." He laughs loudly, shrugging his shoulders as he thinks it over. "Wouldn't be mad, would still be you lookin' back at me."

"Sap." Paddy laughs a little harder at your insult, pulling the watch further out of the box as he closes the back. He holds it out to your lips, to which you give him a confused look.

"Good luck kiss," He shrugs again, as if it was the most obvious answer. "Since I'm bein' such a sap."

You do as he says, pressing your lips against the metal gently as he smiles, immediately pressing his own lips over where yours had touched the watch, before putting his new gift in his front pocket.

"You read that in some poetry book?" You whisper, eyes closing in content as Paddy's calloused hands reach out to rest against your waist once again, pulling you forward and running his nose along yours.

"Don't need a book for that," He answers, tilting his head to seek out your lips. He kisses you with a tender rhythm, Paddy's own little way of saying thank you without using the words.

He groans softly as your hands wound their way into his hair, tugging gently at the strands as your own head tilts, smiling against his own grin.

As you pull away, Paddy reaches up, patting his front pocket. "I'll take it everywhere," He reassures, nodding along as you hold your hand over where it lay near his heart. He holds his hand over yours, keeping it there. "You'll be everywhere I go."

"I believe you," You turn your hand where it lays over the fabric of his uniform, just enough for Paddy to entwine your fingers with his. "I've got a photo of your pretty mug here too to keep me company."

Paddy scoffs, squeezing your hand. "Ye love me."

"Wholeheartedly," once again, you lean forward, letting go of Paddy's hand to wrap your arms around his neck, pulling him in for an embrace. His arms engulf you, pulling you impossibly closer to him as he tucks his head into your neck, inhaling your scent as he closes his eyes. "Happy birthday Paddy."

"Thank you darlin'."

[screamlet]

8 or 29 for the cuddle prompts please? 👀

hahaha did someone say angst!!!!!!!! i did!!!!!!! it's me!!!!!!!!!! cuddling reluctantly (8) and last cuddle (29). 800ish words of buck and tommy at the end of the world.

---

It's weird to know, definitively, that it's his last day on earth.

Over the years, Tommy's been put through more than anyone's fair share of near-death experiences. Still, even when it was bad bad, there was always that flicker of hope that said, no, not yet, we might get out of this, this isn't the end. He had been 99% sure that he was going to die and that 1% won out again and again.

Not today, though.

He parks his truck where he and Evan had jokingly called their spot: about an hour outside the city, a couple of winding turns brought them to a small bluff that faced west to the ocean. They had gone hiking exactly twice in the six months they were together and that was enough, apparently, to make this their spot.

Evan's already there and he looks like he's been crying. Maybe Tommy does, too. God knows he had been crying on the drive up, and he had every day, randomly, for weeks. Ever since everyone earth was sure, absolutely sure, that there was no avoiding the massive meteor in the sky. It would hit the Pacific by dawn, maybe earlier.

At least they'll go first. That's what has him tear up again as he opens the truck bed and goes into the cab to grab blankets, pillows, beers, coolers, everything else he brought. He brought too much and not enough—he'd never had to think before about what he would need for the end, the end of the world.

Evan unloads the Jeep and brings things over to the truck bed: more alcohol, more blankets to lie on and keep warm, a bluetooth speaker, everything they might need for the end of the world, including a small portable grill for a quick barbecue-for-two under the eerie light of the meteor.

"I'll get the grill going," Tommy offers as they rush together, holding and gripping each other so tight. They break apart long enough to kiss, then break apart again when they start to cry.

"Why me?" Tommy presses his forehead to Evan's and rubs his hands down his arms. His eyes are shut so tight because right now, he can't actually look at the last person he's going to see alive. "You have—"

"It'll kill me," Evan chokes out. "To be with Maddie and everyone, and the kids, and know there's nothing I can do to save them. You—" Evan laughs suddenly. "You don't mind, right? That we can't save each other."

Tommy feels hysterical as he laughs through his tears, but he can't help it. "Yeah, I'm here. And everyone—we're up here all alone, and they're gonna be just fine, right?" Evan sobs as he nods. "And you and me—"

"I'm so glad you didn't have plans." Evan's laughing, too, because now there's nothing left to do but grill some burgers and hot dogs, drink some beer, and laugh at all this.

They let each other go with another fierce kiss, the only sign of their fervent, desperate sadness. "Yeah, get the grill going, I'm gonna find some music," Evan says. "Spotify has to have a playlist for this, right?"

"Search for sad gay barbecue at the end of the world," Tommy replies.

He looks over his shoulder and sees Evan changing into one of his, Tommy's, hoodies that he'd thrown on the truck bed. Evan looks at him, caught, and just shrugs.

"You'll get the real thing," Tommy says. "Promise. We're gonna hold each other so tight."

Evan looks away, his chest shaking, then turns around holding another hoodie. "Brought one of mine, too. I bought an oversized one so it'd—it'd actually fit you."

"Thanks," Tommy says. "The one I stole looked too ridiculous to wear so I just. Kept it around."

"You could've kept me around," Evan says.

"Yeah, I could have. I'm sorry." Tommy tears up again. "Evan, I never thought I'd have this."

"What?"

Tommy laughs while something in his heart howls for more time, more this, more time. "We're gonna spend the rest of our lives together. That's something, isn't it?"

Evan rolls his eyes in response, but the grin reaches his eyes, the one that crinkles at the corners when he can't help be charmed by Tommy. He didn't have enough time to see Evan smile like that, but then again it's hard to imagine that he could ever have enough.

Evan joins him at the grill with two beers and clinks their bottles together. When their eyes meet, the meteor's glow makes Evan's eyes look even more otherworldly. Haunting, beautiful, and the last thing he'll ever see in his life.

"I'm glad it's you," Evan says.

"Me too," Tommy replies. "Lucky us."

Evan kisses him again, his hand gentle on the nape of Tommy's neck. Of all the ways they have to die, Tommy thinks, then stops that thought. They're not gone yet.

[cowboylikemac]

NATIONAL ANTHEM || H.P

pairing: harry potter x reader

summary: you bring your American traditions to the burrow, including independence day.

warnings: none (if you see any please lmk!)

word count: 3k

a/n: happy fourth of july to those who celebrate!! <3

The Burrow was buzzing with typical Weasley summer chaos. You could smell wildflowers, fresh scones, and that hint of magic from Fred and George's latest failed prank. Fireflies lit up the twilight sky as stars appeared over the fields. It was the Fourth of July—not a big deal in the wizarding world, but super important to you as an American exchange student from Ilvermorny spending summer with the Weasleys before your sixth year at Hogwarts.

You were leaning against the wobbly porch rail, sipping blue-glowing lemonade that fizzed against your lips. The feeling matched the flutter in your chest when you caught Harry Potter staring at you from across the garden. His glasses caught the fading light, his hair messy as usual, but something about him was different this summer. Maybe it was his confident posture, that defiant look in his green eyes, or that cocky smirk when he caught you looking back.

"Oi, Yank," he called, walking over with his hands in his pockets and flannel sleeves rolled up. "What's with all the sparklers?" He nodded at your bundle of muggle sparklers in a jar on the table.

You raised an eyebrow, twirling your hair. "It's the Fourth of July, Potter. Independence Day. You Brits might not get it, but it's huge back home. Fireworks, freedom, you know the deal."

He snorted and leaned beside you, close enough that you smelled his cedar cologne. "Freedom, huh? I could get behind that." His voice had an edge—probably thinking beyond just holidays, with Voldemort's threat growing daily.

You studied him. Harry wasn't that skinny kid from your first year anymore. He'd grown up, all sharp jawlines and quiet intensity, with a charm that sneaked up on you. "You'd love it," you teased. "Bonfires, loud music, people blowing stuff up for fun. Totally your style."

His grin made your stomach flip—confident and a bit dangerous, like he knew exactly what effect he had on you. "I'd fit right in, then."

Before you could respond, Ginny bounced over, her red hair glowing like sunset. "Are you two flirting again, or is this just how Americans say hello?" she teased, grabbing a sparkler and twirling it.

"Bugger off, Gin," Harry said good-naturedly, nudging her. She laughed and ran back to where Ron was failing to teach Hermione broom-less Quidditch.

You turned back to Harry, noticing his lingering gaze. "So," you whispered, leaning closer. "Will you help me light these sparklers later, or are you too cool for muggle stuff because you're the Chosen One?"

He rolled his eyes, but kept smirking. "I'm not that much of a jerk. Plus, I've got some tricks planned. You'll see."

When night fell, the Burrow transformed with light and sound. Fred and George had enchanted firewood to burn in shifting colors—red, blue, white—lighting up the mismatched chairs and blankets on the grass. Someone had charmed a wireless to play music that sounded like Queen and other American artists, all sultry and yearning. It felt like a night where anything could happen.

You knelt by the garden, lighting the first sparkler with a match. It burst to life with golden sparks dancing like tiny stars. "Not bad for a muggle toy, right?" you called to Harry, who was watching you intensely from a nearby blanket.

"Not bad," he admitted, coming over. He took a sparkler but used his wand to light it, creating not just gold but a swirl of colors—purple, turquoise, red—like a tiny galaxy. "Thought I'd add some flair," he said, his voice low and challenging.

You laughed and crossed your sparkler with his, making the sparks shower together. "Show-off."

"Says the girl who brought a suitcase full of these," he shot back, eyes gleaming. "What's next, making me sing the Star-Spangled Banner?"

"Only if you beg," you teased, bumping his shoulder. The contact sent a jolt through you both—you could tell from his quick breath.

The night unfolded with laughter and magic. Ron accidentally set his sleeve on fire trying to impress Hermione, she put it out with a quick water spell and a roll of her eyes. Ginny and Luna danced barefoot in the grass. Fred and George set off mini-fireworks spelling cuss words until Mrs. Weasley chased them with a wooden spoon.

But you and Harry stayed in your own little world. You sat on the blanket, knees touching, sharing treacle tarts as music played around you. The air felt warm and full of promise. You noticed how his eyes lingered on your lips when you laughed, how his fingers brushed yours when passing a tart.

"So," he asked quietly after a while, "what's it like back home? Your Fourth of July."

You leaned back, looking at the stars. "It's loud. Messy. People grilling burgers, kids running with flags, fireworks over lakes. It's... free, you know? Like everyone forgets their problems for one night and just lives." You glanced at him, heart aching at the shadows in his eyes. "You'd love it, Harry. You deserve a night like that."

He was quiet, holding his burnt-out sparkler. "Yeah," he finally said roughly. "Sounds nice. But I don't get nights like that, do I?"

His words hit you hard. The war, the prophecy, Voldemort—it all lurked beneath this perfect summer night. Instead of saying something deep, you just did what felt right. You took his hand, lacing your fingers with his.

"You do tonight," you said softly. "Right here, with me."

Your eyes met, and the world disappeared. No war, no Dark Lord, just you two and the magic in the air. Then he leaned in and kissed you—gentle at first, then more confident, like claiming something he'd wanted for ages. The kiss tasted like lemonade and treacle, sweet and warm, with that reckless confidence you'd seen in him all summer.

When you pulled back breathless, he was grinning again, voice sassy. "Well, Yank, that's one way to celebrate."

You laughed and shoved his shoulder. "Shut up, Potter."

But he didn't. Instead, he pulled you closer, arm around your shoulders as you leaned against him, watching Fred and George's last fireworks explode—red, white, and blue, just for you. The music swelled, and all you could think about was Harry's warmth, his thumb tracing circles on your arm, and the endless promise of this summer night.

The following days were full of stolen moments—you and Harry sneaking to the orchard to practice spells (and steal more kisses). Late-night talks by the fire where he shared things he'd never told anyone about Sirius and being the Chosen One. You told him about your life back home, and he listened like every detail mattered.

One afternoon by the pond, with the sun beating down and dragonflies buzzing, he turned serious. "You know this can't last, right?" he said quietly. "Summer's gonna end, and then... back to Hogwarts, back to everything."

You propped yourself up, meeting his gaze. "I know. But I'm not scared, Harry. I'm not going anywhere." You poked his chest playfully. "I guess you're stuck with me, Chosen One."

He laughed—bright and genuine—and tackled you into the grass, tickling you until you were both breathless. "You're trouble, you know that?" he said, but his soft eyes showed he didn't mind at all.

By the time Fourth of July became a memory, the Burrow felt like home. You and Harry weren't just a summer fling—you were something more, something that could survive sixth year, the war, everything. As you packed to go back home till school started back, keeping a sparkler as a souvenir, you caught him watching from the doorway.

"What?" you smirked. "Gonna miss me already?"

He crossed the room in two steps and pulled you into a passionate, promising kiss. "Not a chance," he murmured against your lips, but the way he held you said otherwise.

And as you stood there wrapped up in each other, with the Burrow full of summer sounds, you knew for sure: this was your independence day—your sparkler-bright and heart-racing.

leave recommendations in my inbox and check out my masterlist .ᐟ

tags - @lydiascabinsix @lydiasfalling @laufeysvalentine

[keirareidss]

fireworks - s.r + a.h + a bonus ;)

a few little blurbs in honor of fourth of July :)

Spencer Reid:

The fourth of July was always nostalgic for you, laying in the backyard watching the neighbors fireworks, sitting around a bonfire and making s'mores, running around with sparklers in your hand.

Spencer had never really felt the same nostalgia. Instead a longing for the feeling, a childhood he'd never had. Instead, he'd sit by the window in his bedroom, listening to the loud boom of the fireworks down the street, covering the sounds of his parents arguing, occasionally catching a glimpse of sparkling color behind the trees.

Before this upcoming Fourth of July, he'd told you about this and it made your heart hurt. You made a promise to yourself to make this the best fourth of July he's ever had.

You went all out, buying supplies for s'mores and hot dogs and even a fruit platter, setting up blankets in your backyard, and finding some sparklers and the biggest at home fireworks you could find. Not the cheap ones that just sparkled a little on the ground, the big ones that shot up, filling the sky with color.

The team was invited over and they all brought a little supplies of their own. And when Spencer showed up, letting you lead him to the backyard, his eyes lit up at the spectacle. Literally, the fairy lights lining your backyard glinted in his pupils.

"This is incredible." Spencer breathed.

"Thanks, I thought I'd make your first Fourth of July experience a memorable one." He looks at you, his expression becoming softer.

"Wait... did you do this for me?"

"Of course I did. Now, come on, let's find a blanket before Rossi starts lighting the fireworks." You lead him to one of the blankets randomly laid out along the lawn, plopping down next to him, your hands brushing.

As the first burst of color exploded in the sky, Spencer glanced over at you.

"Thank you for doing this."

"Of course, Spence." You lean over, brushing your lips against his cheeks. You can barely see the blush forming under the bright lights popping in the sky. Maybe, if you're lucky, you might get a kiss by the fireplace by the end of the night.

Aaron Hotchner:

Aaron enjoyed the fourth of July just as much as anyone else. He liked to bring Jack into the driveway where he'd light a few of the smaller fireworks that glittered up from the ground. He'd buy a few sparklers for Jack to run around with but that was about it.

Until you entered his life.

You brought them both to the beach where you splashed around in the water with his son until it darkened enough for the fireworks to start. All three of you laid on the blanket, Hotch's under behind your neck, Jack curled up between the both of you as dazzling sparks formed shot into the sky from the boats out on the lake.

"This is nice." Hotch turned his head to you, smiling softly, looking the picture of a domestic man, finally able to relax.

"It is, isn't it?" You grinned, looking at him as well until the little boy's voice between you pulled your attention.

"Woah! Look at that one!" He pointed up to a vibrant blue firework, bursting in the dark sky. Your eyes followed his finger, smiling at his little giggle as another brightly colored firework crackled energetically.

Aaron's eyes never left your face. His gaze scanned your features, lit different colors by the ever changing lights above you. Every new color gave him a glimpse of a different part of you. The blue accentuated the freckles on your face, the green bringing out your eyes, the purple emphasizing the color of your lips.

"They're so loud." Jack discerned and you hummed in agreement.

"They are. Do you want some earplugs?"

"No, I'm okay." He snuggled closer to you, his head on your chest. You glanced over at Aaron once again, meeting his unwavering gaze. He leaned over his sons head, planting a soft kiss on your lips. You smiled against him and he pulled away, unable to help his own smile.

He placed another kiss on Jacks' head before settling closer to the two of you, putting his arm over you both as the fireworks continued shimmering in the sky.

Bonus! Emily Prentiss:

When you thought about how you would spend the fourth of July, this was not what you imagined. You pictured spending the evening somewhere outside, maybe with a bonfire and a drink in your hand, watching fireworks with your girlfriend cuddled up next to you.

You didn't expect to be cooped up on the couch, comforting Sergio, Emily's cat, who was deeply afraid of the fireworks booming outside. He meowed a loud suffering sound into your chest as he tried to bury himself into you to get away from the sound.

Emily chuckled behind you, his arms wrapped around your middle, your back against her chest.

"Is he going to be okay?" You asked, stroking the cat's soft fur, scratching behind his ear.

"Oh, he'll be fine. As long as the neighbors don't keep it going past midnight like last time." You could hear the scowl in her voice as you recalled her telling you how she had to go across the street and bang on their door to get them to quit it.

"So we don't get to sleep until they stop?" You asked, leaning your head back on her shoulder, looking at her upside down and she laughed again.

"Not unless you want claw marks in your skin." You hummed snuggling into her more. The cat in your lap meowed again, nails digging into the pillow barrier Emily had placed between you and Sergio to keep him from puncturing your soft skin.

She leaned over, grabbing the pink lemonade from the coffee table, holding it up to you so your lips could wrap around the straw, taking a sip before she drank from it as well. She put it back before leaving a cold, wet, kiss on your cheek and a few on your neck.

You giggled, shying away as her arms tightened around you. Maybe you didn't mind if you were up past midnight.

Taglist: @superbeaglewitch, @perfectgoopfishuniversity-blog, totallynotabuckybarnessimp, @dramioneforevertilltheend. @cynbx, @diminombre, @tinythebunni, @pixie-verse, @cinnamoncunt

[spectral-phases]

Marvelous, fantastic post, OP.

Can we count this moment in the Bonus-Extra-probably-counts-as-dead deaths?

Frozen Solid (Blackest Night: Batman #3, 2009)

The whole world is being overrun by Black Lanterns, which are superpowered zombies pulling peoples' hearts out of their chests to eat them and consume the emotional energy to charge the Black Lantern battery. Dick and Tim's parents are Black Lanterns, and after fighting a losing battle against the Black Lanterns in a graveyard, Dick (as Batman), has one of Mr. Freeze's confiscated guns dropped to them and decides freezing them into a block of ice is the best choice to avoid getting killed by the Black Lanterns (I love him. He's so insane here. So is Tim. Dick hasn't said jack shit about the plan, holds the gun to Tim's chest, and Tim just says "do it" and this is after Dick crashes their aircraft into the graveyard after their zombie parents show up) and asks Deadman to bring them back after.

The only reason I'd argue it could even count (because comic logic) is because their emotional energy is completely gone. Once they're frozen, they're not giving off anything that the Black Lanterns can detect, so I'm thinking their hearts stopped here, meaning that they were more likely frozen through instead of just being covered/encased in ice (also, Etrigan is so real here "the varied abominations this city regurgitates puts even Hell to shame" lmao), but there seems to be a brief window where Deadman can still resuscitate them/break them out of the ice, so idk what we'd call it, but with Dick calling for them to be "brought back" I'm definitely leaning towards dead there.

I wanna say he was technically dead for like 13 seconds, though. And, obviously, Dick would also have been technically dead for about 20 seconds by Freezing Himself Solid.

Deaths of Tim Drake

Part of the Batfam Death Project.

Unfortunately, Tim is wrong. At the time of the above panel (Robin War 1, 2015), Tim had died twice. To be fair, though, this being New 52 where Tim was never even actually Robin, they have presumably unhappened or, at least, been forgotten. (However, current canon is that all timelines have happened, so they still count.)

Tim has died three times and visited an afterlife twice. There are also a further three occasions when he might have arguably died, though it is not shown on panel.

Total time dead: a few days.

Verifiable deaths

1. Killed by the Joker (Emperor Joker, 2000)

Tim was killed by the Joker after Joker stole reality-altering powers from Mxyzptlk and remade the universe to his liking.

By the look of his corpse he was shot several times in the chest, possibly with a machine-gun.

Time dead: At least a few days. By the look of the corpses, Dick died before Tim – his body is noticeably more bloated – but neither has been dead more than about a week or two. On the other hand, Joker has powers over reality here, so he could have them appear at whatever stage of decomposition he wants.

2. Drowned in Blüdhaven (Robin 2:145, 2006)

Tim drowned in a water attack by a villain called Monsoon during an attack on Blüdhaven by a large number of meta villains, just hours before Blüdhaven was bombed by Chemo.

He was resuscitated by Laura Fell, the Warlock’s Daughter (his school friend Darla returned from the dead), who says she used CPR (the resuscitation is not shown on-page).

Of course, the person who gave her the CPR that didn’t help when she died was Tim, so that’s a hell of a thing to bring up just now.

Time dead: unclear, but probably in the order of minutes – Laura is grabbing him and pulling him out as he’s losing consciousness, so it can’t be long.

3. Electrocuted by Evil Future Tim (Detective Comics 1:966–967, 2017)

Tim’s Evil Future Batman Self (pulled from the future by Dr Oz) helped Tim escape Dr Oz’s extradimensional prison, where they were both imprisoned. When they got back to Gotham, Evil Future Batman Tim incapacitated Red Robin Tim with a powerful electric shock so he could go and kill Batwoman without interference.

Tim staggered to a nearby hospital, removing the more recognisable parts of his Red Robin outfit (which at this point in time actually looks just like his Robin outfit) on the way, and collapsed in the doorway. His heart stopped and he had to be revived by defibrillation.

Time dead: a minute or two at most.

Bonus extra deaths

(Implied, inferrable, ambiguous and arguable deaths)

1. Possibly died briefly during his splenectomy (Red Robin 5, 2009)

As Red Robin, Tim got stabbed in the spleen, and almost died from blood loss. He was picked up and treated by the League of Assassins, and woke up next to a Lazarus Pit. He was told, however, that he had not been resurrected, nor been submerged in the Pit for healing, but had only undergone surgery.

That may be so. It still leaves open the possibility that Tim did briefly die on the operating table and was resuscitated by more normal medical processes. It’s also possible that the White Ghost was lying by omission and, even if Tim wasn’t submerged in the Pit, some Lazarus Water was involved in the operation.

Time dead: Maybe a minute or two, if anything.

2. Arguably died when he was shot by a hundred drones at once (Detective Comics 1:940, 2016)

Jacob Kane (Batwoman’s dad and Bruce’s maternal uncle) had a plan to take out members of the League of Shadows (an offshoot of the League of Assassins) with targeted drone strikes. But the drones would have potentially killed a lot of other people too. Unable to actually disable the drones, Tim managed to hack them and reprogram them to all fire on him instead.

This was absolutely suicide, and it absolutely would have killed him had Dr Oz not spirited him away to his extradimensional prison. But you could argue that Tim did actually die at this point. Did he get transported just before the drones hit, or did his body get disintegrated and then reconstituted from his soul (which would count as death) in the prison?

Against the former, surely it wouldn’t have been hard for the other Bats to spot if his body had disappeared a millisecond before the lasers hit, and the panel appears to show his body beginning to disintegrate. Tim remembers the missiles hitting him.

On the other hand, when Tim manifests in the prison he is still as injured as he was before, with a swollen cheek and a bloody nose, and you’d think if his body was reformed it would come back fully healed.

Dr Oz’s answer is ambiguous.

Time dead: unclear. If he died at all, it was probably for moments.

3. Probably died in Death Metal along with everyone else (Death Metal 7, 2021)

Tim probably died in battle when the Dark Multiverse invaded and destroyed all the worlds of the multiverse. All the remaining heroes came together in a hopeless fight against an army of their worst nightmares, including an apparently never-ending swarm of groblins (mindless evil Jokerised Robins led by the Robin King, an evil child Bruce Robin).

Tim’s death isn’t shown on panel and neither is his dead body, but he is definitely in the group of Bats standing ready to fight (left, next to Spoiler):

As with Cass, Tim is likely to have died here, but he could have just been fighting elsewhere when we see Evil Child Bruce Robin taunt Batman over the fact that everyone is dead. In any case, everyone is fine again when Wonder Woman persuades the Creators to remake the multiverse.

Time dead: unclear; might be up to an hour, or longer if it takes longer to remake the world.

Afterlife visits

1. Pulled to the edge of the Abyss (Young Justice 1:19, 1999)

So apparently one of Greta’s (Secret’s) powers is the ability to create a portal to the Abyss – a rather horrific realm of the dead – within herself. She basically gathers people into herself to pull them in to the afterlife. She can also use this power to teleport/transport people by taking them through the Abyss – though it is not pleasant. She does this for Young Justice when Mount Justice blows up with them all inside it. In Greta’s internal portal, they experience falling into darkness, being burnt up, and being frozen and shattered. All the time, Greta is laughing cruelly.

And then they get spat out into a forest in the rain.

Greta is at pains to insist that she didn’t actually take them in to the Abyss itself, just the edge of it within herself. But it was still obviously absolutely nightmarish for all of them.

Time in in Greta’s internal afterlife portal: moments, or an eternity.

2. In the Abyss again (Young Justice 1:48, 2002)

Anita’s dad was tortured and left to die. Anita got there just too late, and then leapt into Greta’s internal afterlife portal to try and pull him out.

Ray and Slobo jumped in to get Anita back, and, after a little hesitation (unlike the others, he had been in before and knew the Horrors that awaited), Tim went in too.

Like last time, Tim experiences The Horrors, but Slobo (who says he has an understanding with death) stabilises him. They, with Ray, protect Anita from bat-monsters while she tries to reach her father.

Anita doesn’t get her dad back, but she does get to say goodbye to him. (This doesn’t help.) Everyone other than Anita’s dad is spat back out of Greta’s portal in the same place a short while after they left.

Time in Greta’s internal afterlife portal: a few minutes.

Batfam Death Project Masterpost

[lacobus]

I know deep in my soul that Mark is a freak, but I'm silently debating if he's an exhibitionist freak or likes to keep it in the bedroom kinda freak

i think that it depends on when you catch him era-wise, like yellow suit mark or blue suit mark. he's bolder with the blue suit because he's kind of dated already yk, but yellow suit mark's palms are sweaty and he's nervous as hell because you'd be his first sexual encounter.

in general, i think mark likes the thrill but tweaks out harder than you afterwards when post nut clarity hits. like quickly fumbling clothes on when he's finally rode out his orgasm and is also making you dress up so you guys can smooth out any wrinkles and stuff 😭

beneath the cut: yapping beneath the cut about the invincible variants !!!

ik this isn't what you asked, but i'd say yellow suit mark has more voyeuristic fantasies and wants to roleplay hero who flies by and unexpectedly sees a civilian getting off to them.

blue suit mark probably wants to bend you over the guardians of the globe console in their den to stick it in cecil's face, but he refrains from bringing this up because he's a little embarrassed and doesn't want to make you feel weird.

and the variants i believe all have some kind of exhibitionist thing where they all want to power trip by doing it for an audience to see that they can't stop him and that you explicitly belong to him.

much to think, like viltrum mark + mustache mark (as viltrumites who were raised that way) don't really care about if someone watches, sex is an act of procreation anyway, they just care about the fact that this is a way to stake their claim bluntly speaking.

mohawk, no goggles, and shiesty are pretty into pretty dastardly methods; mohawk would want to televise it for just a quick moment (enough for someone to see and get bombarded with footage of you face up ass down), no goggles thinks having anyone important (i.e. the guardians of the globe, before he beats them all to a pulp for his entertainment) walk in is fun and shiesty (also, bald + retro mark to a smaller extent) just wants to gloat and show people that he's the man.

sinister mark is very, very, very into things that are potentially disgusting and very dehumanizing. you're his pet, not a lover. sex is a tool to remind you, and he'll have you however he wants without paying attention to your writhing. the exhibitionist thing he has going on for him is to wrangle all the variants and have them watch him with you but never actually let you cum. and he gets everyone to laugh too, so when you cry its just the cherry on top for him

others: omni mark isn't into exhibitionism, he thinks its a waste of time and frankly unbecoming. prisoner mark doesn't care, he's been stuck in a holding cell for forever, if it turns you its nothing to him, he just wants to fuck. full mask mark (black mask + blue goggles, aka maskvincible apparently according to the wiki???) would indulge you, and get into it as a result

[yall-batman-fanfic]

Bad Mood | Bruce Wayne/Batman x OC!Magician

Note: Part of the Continuity or the Original Storyline of Bruce Wayne /Batman x Vivian Pryor

Synopsis: Short fluff. When Bruce comes home in a bad mood.

The doors slammed open. Vivian heard it from all the way to the study, his study, where she worked. As she expected he walked in there, was about to throw his briefcase to the couch until he saw her there and decided to toss it to the other couch, away from her. Then came off the tie, the watch, and the blazer, all tossed to the other couch.

"How was your day, honey?" Vivian began.

Bruce raised a finger and walked straight to the clock and down to the cave.

"I guess not so good," Vivian smiled a bit. Other people would find that gesture to be rude, but she knew Bruce. He didn't mean anything bad to it. He just didn't want to explode all of it to her. It wouldn't be fair.

"I do apologize for his behavior, Ms. Vivian," Alfred spoke. She didn't even realize he was there until he spoke. Dick too.

She turned to the boy and asked, "Do I wanna know?"

Dick raised a brow. "I didn't do anything, he was already like that when he and Alfie picked me up from school."

"I'd give him a few more minutes to cool down, Alfred. And I'll bring his tea."

"I do wish you luck, Ms. Vivian."

~ * ~

She gave him thirty minutes to work it out of his system before coming down to the cave bringing tea, but it seems he still wasn't ready to talk about it because Bruce was doing pull-ups with a truck-tire strapped to his waist as his weights.

Normally she would comment how ridiculous and amazing he could do that but she decided to stay quiet until he comes down.

Maybe it's because he saw her standing there with tea and a bottle of water on the table that Bruce made his last pull-up, unstrapped the belt that held the truck wheel, and went to meet her. Vivian tossed him the water bottle and he caught it with ease.

He took a few gulps before asking: "How was your day?"

"Better than yours it seems," she took the towel from where he discarded his shirt and wiped the sweat off his face, neck, and chest. "Wanna talk about it?"

"Not right now."

"Okay. You cooled off now or do you want me to put the Cave in lockdown and you can fuck it out of your system," she smirked.

Bruce hummed in thought. "I don't want you to think that you have to do that."

"It's a win-win situation, " she sat on the table, hooked her finger at his pants and pulled him close. "I get to feel good and you cool off." She pinched his face and pulled him for a kiss.

"But not always," Bruce said between kisses. His hands were already on her waist.

"You got it. Now where is the lockdown button?"

Bruce pushed her down to the table and climbed on her. "We don't need it."

"But what about Dick and Alfred?" Vivian giggled.

"They know better than to come down here when I'm pissed and you're here. They'll know." He kissed her again, this time much more hungry and lustful. "I'll try to hold back."

"Honey, the purpose of this is for you to let it all out." Vivian got down, turned around for him, and bent down on the table. "So, don't hold back."

[olderthannetfic]

So I'm the anon that sent in the bi lesbian ask, and I have to say--since I guess I didn't make this clear--that I'm not excluding people. I may not feel comfortable with people using the bi lesbian label due to trauma but I'm not out here telling people to leave spaces. I'm not policing identities, and I'm not demanding people negotiate with me.

All of these thoughts are kept solely to myself, because I'm not an idiot and I understand my response isn't "normal", and I'm working to get over it. Like, I had intended to just let that anon free and not come back to it, but the amount of assuming that I'm actually policing spaces is fucking WILD.

But on the other hand I think its pretty telling about the fact that discussions about this have gotten so hostile. I deliberately didn't bring up other aspects of my life other than the trauma stuff because I didn't think it was relevant to do so, but part of why I want to have the talks in the first place is because I'm not going to go up to people and demand they justify themselves. At the end of the day, we are all in the same community, and are all being targeted. I may not be comfortable with a bi lesbian's label but that doesn't mean i won't support that person. Maybe it's because I do off computer work and am slowly making inroads into trying to understand (again, off computer, because the community I'm in is pretty cool), but I assumed that would be obvious, which is genuinely my bad because I forgot that this is online discourse where people can and will drop others at the drop of a hat lol.

Since I sent that ask, I've been having conversations with someone in real life who uses the label, and it's pretty fascinating to hear about. She's in turn curious about my gender stuff, so its actually a pretty fulfilling talk.

Whatever my feelings are, more important than my total comfort is the community as a whole tbh. Hence why the anon got sent at 3 am to a tumblr blog.

But yeah, tldr: talking about this stuff irl is going well, I'm not keeping people out of spaces, also I am neither cis or white which maybe would have been good to include in the original anon but like. I forgot.

--

I don't think being cis and white or not is all that relevant. It was more about the phrasing about conversation. If you want to understand why people use a label, the kind of ask I'd expect is "Man, I don't get this label. What do people actually mean by it?" and not "Can we just talk".

By failing to phrase it the first way, there's a strong implication that the "talk" will have some aim other than giving you new information.

You can mean well and you can rephrase it a dozen ways, but if you aren't asking like "I don't know X. I need more information on X", that implication is going to be there.

[cassi0pei4]

Gilded Age E4-8 Spoilers and Speculation

Spoilers from episode summaries, interviews and press reviews below:

Episode 4: Marriage Is a Gamble

With the wedding between Gladys and the Duke imminent, Bertha must deal with unwanted rumors in the press, the sudden arrival of her sister Monica, and an unwilling bride. After giving a talk in Newport, Peggy and her mother encounter the aloof Mrs. Kirkland. Meanwhile, a grieving Ada attempts a new way to communicate with Luke, and Borden learns more about Mrs. Bruce's past.

My guess is that this episode ends with a probably tearful wedding of Gladys to the duke. The bigger question is whether "I can fix this" (first still) is in this episode or another. To me it feels like it's pre-wedding and the thing Bertha's fixing is the wedding/engagement, but impossible to know.

Episode 5: A Different World

Gladys has trouble adjusting to her changed circumstances…and the controlling Lady Sarah. After a string of personal and professional wins, Larry runs into a familiar face. While at an event with Dr. Kirkland, Peggy gets an opportunity from an old colleague. Later, drama ensues at Mrs. Fish's Newport luncheon.

Very few frames seem to fit with this episode and the next -- perhaps because they'd be too spoiler-y to be seen so early. I'm guessing this image is Gladys at her new home with her bags being delivered on that carriage. If I had to guess, I'd also say the drama that ensues is Bertha bringing Aurora to the luncheon. Now that Gladys is married, it's time to transition to Bertha's 2nd half plot, of normalizing society for divorced women/being more feminist.

Episode 6: If You Want to Cook an Omelette

While Bertha encourages Gladys to stand up for herself and her new husband, George faces an upward battle to secure the rail line that runs through Chicago. Larry gains intel that leads Oscar to have a long-awaited confrontation – but raises doubts for Marian. Later, Peggy confides in Dr. Kirkland about her past, and Ada has a candid talk with Jack about his future.

No stills fit into this episode, but in an interview Taissa says that she and Bertha are more aligned from ep 6 onwards, so this tracks. If I had to guess, this episode has George entirely in Chicago. The nightclub is presumably where Larry learns something that allows Oscar to see Maude again, as him visiting it would also raise doubts for Marian.

Notable absences here: nothing about McAllister, nothing about the "act of violence."

Episode 7 - Ex-Communicated

No episode summary of this one yet, but given the title I'm guessing this is when McAllister's book is published. @mydaylight figured out that the dress in the trio photo is the same one Bertha is wearing in George's library looking sad, so I'm guessing he returns from Chicago and they have some argument, perhaps related to the book.

If I had to guess, I'd say this episode ends with George being shot, as leaked by Carrie (lol) in the interview I posted about earlier and involving this panicked run.

Episode 8 - My Mind Is Made Up

No summary, but lots of press about what to expect in the finale.

I'm guessing these images are from the ball mentioned here:

Things hit maximum impact when Bertha sends invites to the season’s most fashionable ball to three women who have boldly severed ties with their husbands."

As ever, Baranski nails the biggest laughs. “What’s next,” she opines, surveying the ball, “a cotillion for divorcees? A high tea for unwed mothers?” Let’s hope so. But before that a shocking act of violence shatters the pampered lives of these plumed avatars of excess and their outmoded punishments for conduct unbecoming. And suddenly “The Gilded Age” breaks out of the prison of cozy nostalgia, finding a kinship with the urge to challenge rules that crush the human spirit.

Then we get this agonizing series of reviews:

The season’s only misstep comes in the finale, when the growing tension between George and Bertha builds to a climax that is somewhat confounding and — in this viewer’s opinion — out of character for George. The revelation feels particularly tacked on in an episode that’s otherwise filled with glamour (two balls!), a romantic proposal, and hard-fought social victories. - link

Coon centers the entire series with a fierce, at times volcanic, Emmy-worthy performance, and the season’s final shot takes your breath away. To say more would spoil the surprises in store. -link

Most intriguing, by the end of the season, “Gilded Age” seems like it’s wrapping up some storylines, particularly romantic couplings, that built through three seasons. It feels like the show is getting ready to conclude as it brings back multiple characters from the show’s past. But then the final scene in the eighth episode undoes that neat bow, almost as if an HBO exec said, “Hey, not so fast, we may want to order a fourth season, give us a cliffhanger!” -link

The eight-part series climaxes with – how else to put this? – a pair of balls. These sumptuous set pieces play host to reconciliations and reprisals, proposals and engagements. If there isn’t a soppy smile on your face by the time the credits roll, I’ll eat my hat. Although it might take a while. - link

If I had to guess (and I hate this) we get a happy-ish scene at the ball, and then George retires to his room only to tell Bertha that evening something like, "while recovering I realized that I don't know if I can be with you anymore," and that leaves a cliffhanger for a S4 exploration of separation/divorce/reconciliation. How, precisely, that leaves anyone with a "soppy smile" is beyond me, but that's my guess/protective construal.

Quotes we get at some point:

“I don’t blame you for being ruthless. I admire it. It’s what we share,” George tells Bertha in one scene. “But I’m ruthless in business, not with the people I love.”

and

“I don’t blame you for being ruthless,” George tells Bertha in a stretch that leaves their shared future uncertain. “I admire it. It’s what we share.”

“Winning in business and winning in society are linked,” she tells her husband a quarrel that precedes that things-we-can’t-unsay blowout. “We are facing a very public defeat!” Later in the season, she announces: “Men are forgiven for their indiscretions and women are punished. It’s not fair.”

It’s the same, suffocating propriety that causes George, when he really loses his temper with Bertha, to seethe, “You are as pristine as a Raphael fresco!”

[lilac-hecox]

In case people have never looked at the filters section on AO3 under the Smosh fandom I thought it would be fun to break it down.

Warnings:

Self-explanatory these are the different warnings most commonly used in the fandom when applying them to fics.

Most common for our fandom is choosing not to use warnings and no warnings applying, followed by graphic violence and major character death.

Ratings:

The ratings of the fics with the most common being teen and up and then general audience followed by explicit and mature. All are fairly close, though, so we have a good mix!

Categories:

The category of the relationship in the fic! Roughly about 1,000 more M/M fics than F/M followed by F/F and gen, but when you look at the top pairings it makes more sense.

Fandoms:

These are the fandoms that are used in the fics alongside the Smosh fandom tag. I love that Board AF is on there. Rhett and Link makes sense, as does Dan and Phil because of Anthony's close friendship to them. Game Grumps is kind of surprising, though only in the sense of fic overlap.

Characters:

These are the characters tagged the most in fics essentially who may be written about or included the most in fics.

I am mildly surprised that Shayne is the most written about but not too much because there was a reason they had the 99% strength joke.

But Shayne and Ian are only separated by 20 something fics.

The bottom is super interesting because it goes from Spencer to Chanse and then Olivia. I think the Chanse comes from him mainly being a signature support character in Angela-centric fics, but his own fic amounts are creeping up.

Olivia, I am not sure if that's a holdover from her being a popular pairing with Courtney before and also probably written a lot in Smosh Squad fics or as support in Shaymien or Shourtney fics?

I'm also surprised that Tommy isn't in the top 10 alongside Spencer because the other characters kind of follow their main pairings, so to speak.

Relationships:

These are the most written romantic relationships!

Ian and Anthony are first, but if I recall, what was told to me that between the time Anthony returned and now increased the ianthony fics by 100 or so? Even so, they would have still held the top spot but they were the flagship pairing so not surprising!

Damien/Shayne is holding on from the section of time where Shaymien ruled. There are still new fics that are added for them but at a less frequent basis than before.

Angela/Amanda is absolutely flying up the charts and with good reason. They are well loved and in a ton of content and have a lot of shippable moments. They are only 81 or so fics away from overtaking Shaymien.

Shourtney is lower than I thought, but I feel it's a fair spot. I think shourtney has always existed in this weird spot where people felt fics were too much or too far or people pushed to sibling-code them. I also saw a super interesting conversation that Shourtney being confirmed real may have slowed the fics down because people may now feel less inspired or enthused to write about a real couple.

Platonic Shaymien and Spommy are tied with 132 fics. Spommy grows despite not being given much to work with lately, and I remember fondly when Spommy passed 100 fics! I feel they'll keep climbing because spommy is a pairing typically universally loved or liked.

Platonic ianthony is next, and I feel it's used a little less because if they show up as side characters in a shipping fic, they are typically tagged via their couple tag. (Ty for that!)

Angel/Damien worked it's way up in the last couple of months because it took a while for AO3 to clock their amount of fics (and it helped push Anthony/Kalel off the top 10) damangela are very close to 100 fics!

Platonic amangela is almost tied with damangela. I'd be interested to know if platonic amangela is tagged a lot in fics where Amanda and Angela are paired with different people?

Finally, Damien/You brings up the rear, which isn't too surprising! I think it helped push Courtney/Olivia off the chart? Damien lovers are passionate and creative and good for them for enjoying what they love!

Additional tags:

Mainly, what is the majority tagged in the fics. By far fluff is the most written in the fandom. A roughly 300 something difference to Angst.

Friends to lovers and then smut are also close! I think it's interesting that AU is a tad lower. I also think the first kiss is a very cute tag to have in the top 10.

So, that's the Smosh fandom AO3 tags. I love fandom statistics so I wanted to break it down a little. I will probably check these again in December maybe?

I hope someone enjoyed it! Let me know if you want to what surprised you or didn't surprise you!

[yurrrsssss-ghoul]

whats ur ideal characterization of the al ghuls ?

This might come across as more or less a biased perspective, but I'll try to put them into sections (littler parts so it'll be more digestible) and back up with actual evidence with canon materials as to avoid being completely fanon-y.

First, I'd like to admit my flaws that sometimes I do tend to fall to certain tropes. I'm a complete sucker for mother-ly/childish/fun Talia who has her own things going on (the run where she was the CEO of LexCorp? Love it), I like to see more of Ra's being some sort of radical environmentalist and I do appreciate it when Damian acts more or less like a kid with love for art and theater.

However, I also understand that I can't have everything, and that their lifestyle also dictates their characteristics, so I'll try my best to keep both things balanced.

First, let's get a few things out of the way. The al-Ghuls are strict, they're disciplined and certainly smart and strong. Whatever I'm saying next does not negate any of these things; they certainly do commit wrong-doings here and there, though I feel like when discussing about the 'correct' characterization of the al-Ghuls, I think it all falls down under a single issue.

I'd like to see them more emotional.

Contrary to popular beliefs, the al-Ghuls aren't 'unfeeling monsters'. In fact, I believe that the primary factor that drives them towards their goal is the fact that they're emotional beings, ruled by their love if not passion, among other things.

Ra's love for the environment drives him to raise an eco-terrorist organization, Talia's love for the men in her life ultimately leads her to her demise, not to mention how she conducted an international hunt for her mother's killer outside of Ra's knowledge, Damian's love for his parents destroyed him altogether.

One way or another, all of them were (I supposed, martyred) for their love of someone else, or something else. Doomed.

The best I could describe this is by using the 'White guy philosophy'. Like how, if you can't imagine Batman comforting children, then you didn't imagine Batman. You just imagine some guy in a bat costume beating up criminals.

Similarly, if you can't imagine Ra's crying over animals that died or mourning his family, or Talia saving women or children and comforting them and loving her family, or Damian willing to sacrifice himself for his family— then you didn't imagine the al-Ghuls. You, in fact, are seeing them through the rose-tinted glass of stereotypical vision.

Consequently, anything that implies them pursuing a relationship because of genetics, blood, power, or whatever is inherently revolting.

A part of me died whenever people emphasized how they (the al'Ghuls) only reproduce to acquire the 'perfect heir,' when nothing could be further from the truth. Ra's genuinely loves his wives, and he didn't press it when Talia (his favorite daughter, by the way, and by his definition, perfect) refused to lead the LoA. Talia genuinely loves Bruce and wanted to have a family with him, but alas gave it up when she saw how he was endangering himself for her.

Thankfully, Damian is 14. And I haven't seen such claims made about him.

It all ties back to the al-Ghuls being 'unemotional', that everything has some sort of ulterior motives for them. That the notion of them conceiving or starting a family doesn't have anything to do aside from some grand plot of bringing down humanity.

It also fuels a lot of other issues, a can of worms I'm opening for another day.

Ra's wouldn't seek out someone to produce the perfect heir, he wouldn't condone animal cruelty or even unjust terrorism. Talia isn't some seductress that lures men to feast on them or whatever, and she certainly wouldn't sit alright if she witnessed a form of violence. Damian isn't some stupid, spoiled brat that scream out, "I'm the blood son" every other second.

Make them romantic people. Make them kind. But also make them fight to be kind, make their kindness be the end of them. That their virtues are also the sins that condemned them to hell. They are demons on Earth because they are angels that were exiled from heaven.

Also, like, separate them from what they do? Let Ra's sometimes just take a walk at his many gardens and care for animals, let Talia travel the world and allow her to go on her own adventures and let Damian act however he wants to be.

I'm ending this now because I really don't want it to go far beyond what was expected, but here are some things I'd love to be more incorporated into their writings.

[kangshxrtie]

ONE ── SHOTS TO THE SHEETS

──𐙚 kim chaewon x female oc ──𐙚 after being forced to a party celine jeong finds herself with the company of kim chaewon ──𐙚 light smut ──𐙚 3510 WC

i had been downing shots with my best friend jisun and a few random acquaintances for the past couple of hours. but as the alcohol hit me like a ton of bricks, i suddenly realized just how messed up i was. with a sense of responsibility kicking in, i decided it was time to slow down. after all, someone needed to make sure we both got home. 

as i grew tired of standing, i grabbed jisun's arm and pulled her down to sit beside me.

"i'd be down to leave in like half an hour if you want," jisun suggested, her voice slightly slurred from the shots we'd been downing for the past couple of hours.

i nodded, feeling the effects of the alcohol hitting me hard. "sounds good," i replied. 

"so, have you found your hookup for the night?" i inquired, knowing that was the reason she had even come here. 

"nope. nobody's caught my eye," jisun sighed shaking her head.

"ning has been looking at you all night," i pointed out.

jisun waved it off. "doesn't matter, she's too shy to do anything."

"you should do something. didn't you say you had a crush on her?" i pressed. 

"yeah, but it's just a little crush," jisun admitted.

"if you told me, then it's serious," i said knowing jisun was the type to keep her romantic interests secret until they were serious.

jisun groaned, scanning the club for yizhuo. suddenly, her eyes widened in realization, and she covered her face with her hands.

"we made eye contact," she confessed, her voice muffled.

"go talk to her," i encouraged, nudging her again.

"but i'm scared," jisun admitted, her nerves showing.

"don't be. you got this!" i cheered, trying to boost her confidence.

with a determined nod, jisun stood up, finishing the last of her drink before heading off towards yizhuo.

left alone, i glanced around the club, my vision swimming with the effects of the alcohol. my eyes met those of a girl who seemed familiar, almost like one of the idols in my room on my wall. before i could look away though, she was walking towards me.

"can i get you something to drink?" she offered, flashing a cute smile.

i hesitated, feeling a flutter of attraction despite my drunken haze. "i actually can't. i need to sober up so i can make sure my friend gets home safe," i explained, gesturing towards where jisun had been sitting, only to find her gone.

"did you lose your friend?" the girl asked. 

"never mind, but now i'll be taking my leave," i replied, standing up.

"why leave? the offer to buy you a drink is still there," she persisted.

i hesitated, torn between the desire to leave and the temptation to stay and let loose for the night, just as jisun had intended.

"well then, can i get your name?" i asked, flashing a smile at her.

she looked momentarily surprised, almost like she was shocked i didn’t know who she was but then recovered. "i'm chaewon. kim chaewon," she introduced herself.

"nice to meet you, chaewon," i replied, feeling a sense of familiarity wash over me at her name, but pushing it aside for the moment.

"stay here, i'll go get us some drinks," chaewon offered, making me sit back down before heading to the bar.

i took the opportunity to text jisun and let her know about my change of plans for the rest of the night.

i slipped my phone back into my bag as chaewon returned, setting a few drinks down on the table. "so..." she began, trailing off as i stared at her in confusion for a moment before realizing i hadn't introduced myself.

"it's celine," i replied with a sheepish smile.

"celine," she repeated, her voice smooth like honey. "pretty, like you." her compliment made me blush, a warmth spreading through me at her words.

"but what brings you out tonight?" she inquired, curiosity dancing in her eyes.

"my friend invited me as a plus one to get me out of the house," i explained.

"luckily she did," chaewon remarked before taking a sip of her drink.

"what about you?" i asked, eager to learn more about her.

"i'm actually an idol, which you seem to not know," she chuckled softly.

"that's probably why your name sounds familiar," i admitted, finally putting the pieces together.

"we had some time off, so i wanted to enjoy a night out without getting recognized," chaewon revealed.

"well then, maybe you shouldn't go around telling people you're an idol," i teased, leaning in to whisper in her ear.

as the night wore on, our conversation flowed effortlessly. i shared stories about my business and my life with my friends, and chaewon opened up about her experiences as an idol and the person she was beyond the stage.

however, as the drinks kept flowing and the conversation deepened, i couldn't ignore the growing tension between us. chaewon seemed to inch closer with each passing moment. 

glancing around the club, i noticed people starting to leave, and i realized it was probably time for us to do the same.

"i really enjoyed tonight, chaewon," i said, attempting to stand but stumbling slightly from the alcohol. "we should probably head out since it's getting late”

"well, you're definitely not driving anywhere," chaewon chuckled, steadying me with a hand on my waist as she guided me toward the exit.

once we were outside, she still held onto me as she hailed a cab. "are you good enough to tell me where you live?" she asked, concern laced with amusement.

"of course, i am chaewon. i'm not even that drunk," i protested weakly, knowing my words held little weight.

"why don't we go to my house?" she suggested, her gaze lingering on mine.

i hesitated, weighing my options, but the desire in her eyes decided for me.

"take me then," i replied, the double meaning not lost on either of us as a smirk played on her lips.

as soon as we got back to the house, we didn’t even make it to her room. the moment the door closed shut, chaewon kissed me, wrapping one arm tightly around my waist and pulling me against her until there was no space left between us.

my hands traveled up to her hair intertwining my fingers with her brunette locks. i twisted my legs around her body so i could pull her impossibly closer.

the kiss became even more passionate as she kissed me with all her power.

i resisted her advances moving my head back as she tried to lead the pace. her hand went to hold my jaw trying to hold my head in place, which i quickly denied moving back.

i smiled ignoring the piercing gaze in her eyes, "don't want to move too fast now, do we?" i grabbed her wrist her eyes never leaving mine as i pulled her hand down from my jaw to trail the center of my body slowly.

her hand reached the gap between my breast and i let out a soft gasp at the feeling and then she reached my stomach. i pushed my hands between our two bodies so it reached my wet core, not letting her touch. i felt her fingers extend in an attempt to reach it, but i held it far enough so only she could feel how warm i was without feeling me.

making sure not to look at her, i closed my eyes, and let my chest rise, and opened my mouth slightly. i enjoyed the power i had over knowing her eyes were on me the whole time.

"god you're such a fucking tease" i heard her mutter under her breath.

i arched my back when i finally let her touch me, i controlled how long it stayed, and how hard she went.

i finally let up and let her have control and she pushed her fingers hard on my clit making me moan. she flipped me, pushing my front up against the wall.

she made me spread my legs, moving her fingers back to my core. she pressed her front up against my back, grinding into me. "chae—don't tease me"

i let out another moan when she cupped my pussy with her palm. her hand came up to my hair tucking a portion of it behind my ear and whispered into my ear, "let's not move too fast baby"

she's using my own words against me. she had full control over me now, i couldn't move with the weight of her body holding me in place. i resisted the uncontrollable urge to grind back against her, forcing myself to stay still.

suddenly she was rubbing my pussy with her hand. my mouth dropped open to let out a loud moan. then she pulls my hair to tilt my head back to leave kisses on my neck.

"should i fuck you?" her hand finally makes contact with my cunt pushing my underwear to the side.

"yes! god chaewon fuck me" i feel her smirk against my skin as i grind harder against her fingers especially when she slammed two of them inside me.

"you're so fucking good!" i let out another moan.

her grip on me tightens more as she adds another finger making my hips jolt up and my eyes roll to the back of my head.

i didn't get a break from her as her hand takes grasp of my waist. her thumb circles my clit and i was chasing my high. she was reaching stops that i didn't know existed making me feel so good. she was slowly making me lose my mind and i couldn't think straight as she only continued going harder.

"oh fuck chae. i'm gonna cum" i was able to mutter out while slipping away in pure ecstasy.

"say my name as you cum" she says and i let go.

"chaewon!" i scream out. i ride out my high on her letting out soft moans as she leaves kisses on my neck.

“that might’ve been the greatest sex i’ve ever had in my whole life,” i said, still catching my breath as the adrenaline slowly faded from my body.

“really?” she smiled, and i finally turned over to meet her eyes, heart still racing a little.

“yeah.”

i paused for a moment, then added, “but can we, like, lay down or something? because i’m having trouble standing.”

“oh—yeah. i’ll just take you to my bed,” she said quickly, helping me up with gentle hands and guiding me over. she laid me down carefully like i might break.

“can i sleep here or do you want me to go?”

“it’s your bed, chaewon.”

“i don’t know if you would be uncomfortable or something,” she said awkwardly, rubbing the back of her neck.

“we literally just got done having sex—we’re way past the uncomfortable stage,” i chuckled, giving her a pointed look.

chaewon nodded and slowly got into the bed, laying down stiffly on the opposite edge like i might bite if she got too close.

“do you usually get shy after having sex?” i asked, raising a brow.

“sorry, i don’t normally do this,” she admitted.

“it’s fine, i get it. but you can get more comfortable—it is your bed after all,” i said, trying to ease the tension in her shoulders.

“i am comfortable,” she insisted, though she looked anything but.

“really? you look kind of stiff.”

“nope, i’m perfectly fine,” she replied quickly, shaking her head. “you have enough space, right?”

“yeah, i have a lot of space, chaewon. too much, if i’m being honest. you could get closer to me if you want to.”

“do you really want me to?” she asked quietly.

“just cuddle me, chaewon,” i said, my voice soft but certain.

after a beat, she finally moved closer, hesitantly at first, then wrapped an arm around me. i instinctively scooted into her, resting my head against her chest.

“this is way more comfortable,” chaewon murmured, her voice almost sleepy.

i sighed contentedly. “goodnight, chaewon.”

“have a good sleep, celine,” she whispered back.

my eyes squinted open as sunlight filtered through the blinds, causing an immediate pounding in my head. i turned around in the sheets, trying to piece together the events of last night. the unfamiliar surroundings didn't help, but i had a vague sense that it had been a good night.

sitting up, i realized i was half-naked, and my clothes were scattered across the floor. a shower was running, indicating that the person i'd spent the night with was still here. i debated whether to leave or not, but before i could make a decision, i grabbed my phone and dialed jisun's number. she would know what to do, she’s definitely been in this situation before. 

"hey, celine," jisun chuckled as she answered. "i see you're not home, so that must mean you're still at that person's house."

"yeah, and they're in the shower right now, and i don't know if i should leave or not," i confessed.

"do you know them?" jisun asked.

"i don't remember," i admitted, trying to recall the events of the previous night.

"then probably not. hurry up and do the walk of shame before they get out," jisun advised.

"that's embarrassing, though," i complained.

"well, you're the one who decided to have sex with a random person last night. you can't blame me," she retorted.

"but you're the reason i even did it," i shot back.

"shit," i cursed as i heard the water turn off.

"what?" jisun inquired.

"they're done! oh my god, they're coming out!" i panicked quietly.

"could've been out and down the street by now if you didn't argue with me," jisun murmured.

the door started to open, and a woman emerged from the bathroom, her figure obscured by the towel wrapped around her body. as the fog dissipated, i instantly recognized her. i had slept with kim chaewon. all the memories flooded back.

"holy shit," i muttered slowly.

"do you know them? are they hot? famous? don't leave me in suspense like this," jisun's voice came through the phone.

"sorry, ji, i'll call you back," i mumbled, ignoring her protests as i ended the call.

my eyes stayed fixed on chaewon, who seemed unfazed by the situation. as she moved across the room, i couldn't contain my shock.

"oh my god!" i exclaimed as chaewon reached for some clothes.

"what?" she asked, looking confused.

"why are you doing that right here?" i blurted out, covering my eyes.

"um, because i need to put on some clothes," she replied, continuing with what she was doing.

"no, not in front of me!" i protested.

"you already saw me naked last night," she shrugged.

"yeah, but that was last night, and we were both drunk. totally different situation," i argued.

"i was actually pretty sober," she admitted. "but if it bothers you that much, i'll get changed in the bathroom."

"wait, before you do that," i stopped her. "am i allowed to just leave, or do i need to have some type of cover?"

"you're leaving?" her tone seemed to shift, and i couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt.

"i mean, i thought that's what you wanted me to do," i said, feeling suddenly awkward.

"i thought we could, like, chill today, but if you wanna leave, then that's fine," she shrugged, though her smile seemed a bit forced.

"i can definitely stay," i quickly said, not wanting to anger her. 

"alright, i'll be back. i just gotta get dressed first," chaewon said, retreating back into the bathroom.

as my head pounded with the memories of last night, i quickly texted my best friend, updating her on my current predicament.

"so..." i started to say as chaewon walked over to the bed.

she didn't reply and sat down next to me when she made it to the bed. instinctively, i scooted away from her slightly.

"did you enjoy last night?" she asked, a smirk playing on her lips.

i laughed before replying, "why'd you ask about it so weird?"

"you made it weird first," she chuckled along with me.

"well, i'm sorry that i'm still in shock about sleeping with an idol, especially one from one of my favorite groups," i said after our laughter subsided.

"oh, so you know who i am now?" chaewon chuckled.

"i was so fucked last night. like i knew what i was doing, but i could not recognize you for shit."

"so you remember everything?"

"yes. it felt way different than my past experiences."

"was i the best idol?"

"i would have to say yes, since i don't really do idols."

"oh. so i'm your first?" she leaned closer to my face.

"listen, that's a little too much information to tell somebody i only spent one night with," i replied, looking around the room awkwardly.

"i'm down to spend more time with you," chaewon said, grabbing my hand.

"oh—that's—i mean... me too," i stuttered out, shocked at her boldness.

"do you have to do anything today?" chaewon asked.

"nope, free day. you?" i replied.

"me too," she smiled. "so since we're both free, can we cuddle?" chaewon asked, not waiting for an answer as she sneaked her way onto my lap, letting her hands go around my neck as she hugged me in that position.

"do you usually cuddle with people you met last night?" i asked, feeling a bit overwhelmed.

"not really. you're my exception," she said before leaning closer and attaching her lips to mine.

the kiss intensified, and chaewon's hands began to roam, tugging on my bottom lip and smoothly removing my shirt.

"you know this isn't really cuddling," i said as she moved her kisses down my body.

"i know. it's better," she replied with a mischievous grin.

"i'm so glad my best friend forced me out of the house last night," i said after we both recovered from the heavy panting.

"oh, so you really enjoyed last night?" chaewon joked.

"you already knew that. i didn't need to tell you," i teased back.

"it just feels better when you do," she replied.

"you're such a flirt."

"so, i realized i don't really know anything about you even though we spent the entire night together," chaewon asked.

"what is this pillow talk?" i laughed.

"i just want to know more about you. now, answer the question," she insisted.

"oh, you know, the usual dispatch work. i'm sure you're familiar with it," i shrugged.

"wait, are you serious?" chaewon's expression shifted suddenly.

"no, i'm just messing around. i own a clothing business with my best friends," i clarified.

"you can't do that. i was already imagining the headline 'LE SSERAFIM MEMBER KIM CHAEWON HAS LATE NIGHT RENDEZVOUS.' i could already see my members and my manager texting me," she exclaimed as she laid back down slowly.

"i'm sorry," i apologized. "by the way, i won't tell anyone about us. i don't want to ruin your career."

"if you did, i guess i would just have to punish you," chaewon whispered in a sultry voice in my ear. i blushed, moving away from her. it hadn't even been a day, and yet she knew all my sensitive spots.

"so, that clothing business... tell me more about it," she said, looking at me, resting her chin on her hand.

"it's called threevibee."

"oh, i know it! doesn't aespa work with y'all a lot?" she asked.

"yep, first and forever idol clients," i confirmed.

"jimin told me her sister owned that—wait—you're not... no," chaewon sat up quickly with a gasp.

i quickly shook my head. "no, definitely not. my best friend is her sister. that's the reason i was there last night."

chaewon let out a sigh of relief. "oh, thank god."

"since you run a clothing business, that means you could hook my group up with some free outfits, for promotion purposes, obviously," she suggested.

"you know, i think i could free up some space for you," i agreed.

chaewon happily sighed before speaking again, "i'm really glad you're cool and not some weirdo."

"thanks, i guess."

"like, we just match well together," she continued.

"i thought the same thing, and not just because you're the best sex i've ever had, or maybe it is, and i'm still stuck on it," i rambled on.

"i'm just that good," she chuckled.

"i boost your ego way too much."

"i really liked spending the day with you. honestly, one of the best in a while," chaewon said as we walked out of her apartment.

"glad i was good company," i chuckled.

i waved down a taxi and was about to say my goodbyes when she suddenly stopped, grabbing my arm and putting a piece of paper into my hand. "this is my number. call or text me whenever you want."

"yeah, i'll do that," i smiled awkwardly as i walked to the car with her right behind me.

[dodger432101]

Can you write an HC/ one shot of female reader and Lux where they slow dance to the Jackie Gleason Orchestra? Specifically the songs “If I can be with you (One Hour Tonight)” or “It’s Been a Long, Long Time”? Thank you!

As soon as you walk into Palazzo, you can hear music playing. It's not ‘Girl of my dreams’ -Mr Pye isn't in today-, so you assume it's Lux watching some film and follow the sound. He's in one of the theatres at the end of the hallway, leaning over from the projector booth with his eyes closed. There's no film playing, just.. music. It's something you'd probably slow dance to, a similar tempo to the song that plays whenever Mr and Mrs Pye dance together. But Lux has never been very interested in the sound of films, more just the light. So why is he listening to this?

You call up to him, his eyes instantly snapping open at your voice. “Angel!” A big grin stretches across his face as he barrels out of the projector booth and crawls down the steps towards you. He's.. growing as he speedily approaches. By the time he reaches you he's easily over a foot taller, wrapping his arms around you and spinning. “I was so bored by myself, sunshine! Had to resort to the ol’ imagination to keep me entertained.” Your God keeps you off the ground, holding you by your waist as he rubs his cheek on the top of your head and purrs.

Scratching at his scruffy chin has his foot tapping against the floor. “What were you thinking about, Luxie?” He lowers you to your feet, taking your hands in his as his grin turns bashful.

The music's still playing in the background. “You, of course. You're always on my mind.” That has your cheeks warming up, distracting you from the way he begins to guide you into a dance, taking calculated steps while bringing you closer to him. “I think about you whenever you're not around.” You only notice how close he's gotten when he brings his head down to rest it on your shoulder, leaning against your own head while one of his hands moves to your hip. “You always have this mesmerising glint in your eyes, whenever you look at me. It's my favourite light. I can't get it out of my head, can't get you out of my head...”

Your hand joined in his lets go, moving up his arm as both of yours wrap around his neck. He leans his head back, smiling down at you. His hands go to your waist, one sliding to your lower back. “I think about you too, when I'm not here.” Those bright gold eyes morph into little hearts, his antennae curling towards each other to form the same shape. “Never thought I'd be so obsessed with a cartoon character.” He pinches your side for that, making you squirm in his grasp at the slightly ticklish feeling.

Lux scoffs, pretending to be offended. “I think you'll find you're obsessed with a God, sweetie pie. Unless you're only with me for my looks..?” His grin is confident, self-assured, but there's a flicker of nervousness in his eyes, an ember of doubt that he can't help but fear. It's immediately extinguished with a kiss from you.

Purring against your lips, he pulls you even closer, the slow dance pausing as you pour all your love into the kiss. He still feels a little hesitant, so you bite his bottom lip gently. It does the trick, he shivers as he pulls his head back. “I love you, Lux.” You cup his cheeks, stroking over them with your thumbs. “Not just this.” Your eyes move from his blue skin to his eyes, half lidded but glowing a beautiful gold. “I love all of you. Every little bit.” Lux closes his eyes, bringing his head down to press his forehead against yours. His antennae glide over your skin, caressing every inch they can reach.

He resumes your dance, spinning the both of you around before getting back into the steps. “I love you too.” It's whispered in a soft, vulnerable tone, like he only wants you to hear him like this. You feel him smiling when you give him a quick peck on the lips. “I'm the luckiest God in the Pantheon, finding such a loving, gorgeous, radiant angel. Almost makes me believe in fate, that chance of moonlight bringing us together.” The hand on your lower back moves up, his thumb rubbing into the space between your shoulder blades.

You rest your head on his shoulder, eyes closed as you relax into the rhythm of the dance. “Maybe I am destined to be yours.” He holds you even closer, your chests pressed against each other.

“Don't know what I did to deserve a lover such as you. But I won't look a gift horse in the mouth.” His head leans on yours. “Destined or not, I've somehow won your favour, and you've entranced me like nothing else in the universe. Whether it's fate, sheer luck, or perhaps I'm more charming than I realise,” He smiles at your giggle. “I'm happy I met you. And I'm grateful beyond words for the love you have for me.” You press a kiss to his neck, delighting in the shiver it causes.

Spinning the two of you around, Lux steps behind you and wraps his arms around your waist. Then he's rocking you side to side, barely even dancing now, just enjoying each other's presence. “I'm so grateful that I met you, Lux.” It feels easier to pour your heart out without him facing you. “I never could've imagined that I'd catch the eye of a God, but I'm glad I did. You've made my life so much better. I actually look forward to getting out of bed, ‘cause I get to come here and see you.” His head leans over your shoulder, you can feel him purring. “You make the tough parts of life bearable, too. All the things I used to struggle with are so much easier to get through with you around. Even you just.. being there helps.” You hold onto his hands that have moved to your front. Annoying prickly tears form in your eyes, so you blink them away. “I love you so much, I don't think I could ever show all of it with the time I have..”

Lux holds you tighter. “I know, I'm scared that I won't be able to convey all my feelings for you before.. well..” He sighs lightly, his thumbs stroking the back of your hands. “I’ll love you until the end of time, my angel. Doesn't matter how much or how little of that is spent with you, I'll remember every second that we're together.” The worries that had gripped your heart melted away in his warm embrace. Then he steps back, clearing his throat. “Gosh, that got pretty sappy, huh?” He snaps his fingers to turn the music off, the light of the projector clicking on as you turn to face him. “How's about a movie, toots? Could do with a sit down after all that dancing.” With a stretch and a yawn, he shrinks down to his usual size.

Following him up the steps of the theatre, you sigh fondly as he stops halfway and makes grabby hands at you with big puppy eyes. “We slow danced for a couple of minutes, Lux.”

“Yeah, practically a workout! I'm beat!” His pouty face and droopy antennae have you giving in quickly. With the God of Light now snug in your arms, you step up the rest of the way to the projector room. You don't get much of your actual job done today, but you know Lux will have the picture house looking and running its best. Just so you don't have to worry about it.

[crownmemes]

Justified Sentences, Vol. 1

(Sentences from Justified (2010-2015). Adjust phrasing where needed)

"Did you tell them about the man you killed? The way you did it?"

"You do know that we're not allowed to shoot people on sight anymore? And haven't been for, oh, maybe 100 years?"

"I grew up there! I don't want to go back!"

"You think I'm a snitch?"

"I heard you got married. Are you still?"

"I was right to have a crush on you. You're a good kisser."

"I don't pull my sidearm unless I'm going to shoot to kill."

"Let me ask you a question: would you shoot me if you got the chance?"

"Get out of here by tomorrow noon, or I'm going to come looking for you."

"You've got ice-cold water running through your veins."

"You do a good job of hiding it, and I suppose most folk don't see it, but honestly? You're the angriest man I have ever known."

"Why didn't you kill me? Did you miss my heart on purpose?"

"Did you come all the way out here just to see me?"

"I've got to ask: why the hat?"

"You know, what's funny is the experts say that torture doesn't really work."

"Something's making my neck hairs stand up..."

"Let me ask you a question: do you like westerns?"

"I love how you're so calm when I'm coughing up blood."

"Finally, someone with a brain!"

"How do you think it'd go over if I came into work one day wearing a cowboy hat? Do you think I'd get away with that?"

"I am not the smartest person in the world, but I'm not an idiot!"

"What else did you lie about?"

"Don't lie anymore, okay? You break my heart."

"You're going to steal that car? In broad daylight?"

"What are you, some kind of fancy lawman? Federal Bureau of Intimidation?"

"Man, you sure did rough me up!"

"What brings you here? I got the feeling you weren't ever coming back."

"Hey, how many men have you shot?"

"If I tell you, what do I get?"

"You are a violent man. You have left a trail of dead behind you."

"In the interest of clarity, I'm going to be as straightforward with this as possible: what's your problem?"

"Honestly? I think I'd rather stick my dick in a blender."

"You can't choose who you fall in love with. You can only choose how far down the road you go with them."

"You really don't like me, do you?"

"I'm glad we're going over there together. I might need you to stop me from doing something stupid."

[scorekip]

143

Phainon x GN! Aeon of Adoration!Reader

As the aeon of Adoration you had enjoyed quite the life. Your followers may be few but they were all kind and loving, following in your footsteps.

You often wandered around in space, searching for broken hearts to mend and souls to save.

One day, while traversing the cosmos you saw a flicker of something, you couldn't exactly tell what it was but on a closer look it was a sort of "planet". Though calling it that might be a bit of a stretch.

What was weird about this planet was how it didn't have a physical form, it seemed to be made of something like...code? Though it was far too advanced for you to understand. If Nousy was here THEY'D surely understand.

You somehow enter the world and find yourself in the middle of a wheat field. Looking around, you spot a small village and decide to go there and find out more about this world.

When you've almost made it out of the fields you accidentally trip over a log and fall into the wheat.

"Ow!"

Wow, of all things you didn't expect logs to be able to talk in this place, and for a moment you begin to think of one could marry a log in this world, or maybe logs are considered animals? Can they be kept as a pet?

But turns out you were wrong, it wasn't a random speaking log in the middle of the field. It was a very handsome white haired young man who was currently holding his hand out to you.

"You okay buddy? You should watch where you're walking." He said with a worried look and reached out his hand to help you up.

You graciously accepted and got back onto your feet.

"Thanks...and uhh...sorry for almost stepping on you, what's your name handsome?"

"My name is Phainon! How about yours? You must've come from really far judging from your clothes. I haven't seen anything like it before! It looks really nice on you!"

Phainon said, his cheeks flushing slightly at being called handsome by a rather attractive stranger.

"My name is ____"

"It fits you. If you want, you could come over to my place, you must be hungry after coming such a long way."

"Really?? That's so kind of you Phainon. You have a heart of gold."

Phainon led you into the village, saying hi to the people. It seemed he was rather popular, especially with the kids. Kids have pure hearts so they have a way to sense the good in people....unless there is candy on the line.

Phainon opened the door to his home for you to walk in, like the gentleman he is. As you step in you notice two other figures inside, a lady with white hair and a girl with pink hair.

"It's about time you came back." Said the older lady with a disbelieving smile. "Were you napping in the fields again?"

"Judging from the bits of wheat stuck in his hair I'd say yes." Added the younger girl, placing a hand on her hip. "Whose your new friend?"

"They are a traveler from afar. Their name is ____. I invited them over for dinner, I hope that's okay."

"It's alright. I don't mind. We may not have much but we are not gonna let you go hungry either." Answered the older lady. "I'm Phainon's mother, you may call me Audata."

"And you can call me Cyrene" She said giving you a small wave.

You felt a bit guilty accepting food from a family that's already struggling, and it's not like you needed food to survive either, you just enjoyed the taste of it. "Oh, if you're short on food then there is no need to give me any. I wouldn't wanna worsen your financial situation."

Phainon smiled at the misunderstanding. He closed the front door and walked by you to take a seat at the table. "That's not really the problem, you see other than the bread we make here in the village, the rest comes from the nearby villages. But since the black tide has been approaching it's risky to go out, so some merchants don't even come this way anymore."

"But don't worry, some people from the village volunteered to go and buy some food and bring it back! So come sit down and eat." He pat the seat behind him signaling you to take a seat.

"I see." You muttered before slowly sitting down next to the handsome man. "By the way....what exactly is this 'Black tide' you mentioned?"

The room was silent for a moment, you felt 3 pairs of eyes filled with confusion and surprise staring at you. 'Did I say something wrong?' You thought to yourself.

"You....don't know what the black tide is?"

"Should I?" You couldn't help but let out an awkward laugh.

"The back tide? The Black thing that infects everything and everyone it touches, turning people into monsters and making places unliveable?"

Maybe you should pretend you knew what she was talking about. You didn't want to seem like a fool. "Oh! Yeah, now I know what you're talking about. I just got confused since where I come from we called it 'The shadow of decay'.

"And where are you from exactly?"

"Oh, I'm from a place called...mustard" You really hoped that they didn't have that in this place otherwise you'd be caught red handed.

"Interesting. I never heard of it."

"Phainon, Cyrene? Could you help me out in the Kitchen?" Phainon's mother called out, stirring some sort of soup with a wooden spoon.

Phainon and Cyrene went over to help. You also tried to go and do the same but Audata made you sit back down, saying something about you being a guest and stuff.

"Aren't I a guest too?"

"Honey, I've known you and your family since you were a lil kid, at this point you're also family."

Cyrene laughed. It was adorable to see humans getting along so well, having familial ties without sharing the blood that runs in their veins. It truly shows that family is more than just the relation between parent and offspring.

Since you didn't have anything else to do, you just gazed out the window. Thinking about how you could help them out with this black tide business. After all, it'd be a shame to let the lives of such kind people be destroyed.

______________________________________

I wrote my first fic here! Yippe! I hope it's decent at least. Feedback is very appreciated!

Also this was more like an introduction, I'm gonna be making a continuation of this sometime I think.