#and THEN i remembered that it was played during the last tour i believe? or the previous one

[slowlystupendousdelusion]

Okay so in an attempt to focus on the positives, here are some bullet points of what I remember from the Greg Doran & David Tennant Shakespeare talk the other week.

Touchstone was DT's first Shakespeare part and As You Like It was the Shakespeare play he first remembers being interested in as there was a tour of it that went to his school.

A licence was needed to be able to use André Tchaikowsky's skull for Hamlet as he had died within the last 100 years old. DT dropped it during dress rehearsal the first time they used it and a bit broke off. Luckily they were able to fix it as it was a cheek(?) bit that had fallen out and could be put back in.

DT did a fair impression of both Sir Ian McKellen and (I think?) Al Pacino (I think this was in reference to 'Looking for Richard'??)

DT felt a lot of pressure in relation to Hamlet to the point that he was curled up in the foetal position before going on and had to be talked out of it by the speech assistant

They hold 'gyms' during the rehearsal period where they go through the play line by line to make sure everyone understands what they're saying. They might have discussions about it if there's not consensus.

GD thinks Love's Labour's Won (the lost play) is Much Ado About Nothing. DT countered this (to much laughter) with the plot of DW S3 Ep2. There was clearly a large Whovian contingent in attendance.

I've mentioned this elsewhere but they talked about other productions of Macbeth and GD mentioned one he'd seen with the following joke in the Porter scene: "Knock knock" "Who's there?" "Tom" "Tom who?" "Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow" DT said he wouldn't tell Jatinder or he'd use it that evening

DT's least favourite Shakespeare is The Taming of the Shrew, I think GD demurred on this. Both said favourite is always the one you're currently working on. So Macbeth atm.

The talked about intervals and how Shakespeare didn't really have them - the crowd would be standing and some scenes were built in as a break. Some plays lose momentum if an interval is place in (Macbeth was cited). It can be a bit of a challenge choosing where to place one and they mentioned how in their Vers of Hamlet they put the interval mid-line to shake up expectations etc.

They talked a bit about iambic pentameter and how it's not as important as purists might have you believe. Shakespeare started having thoughts cross lines as he got older - perhaps to help the actors?

They talked about the challenges of such well-known plays and creating suspense etc. Some of the lines are problematic and how as a director, you're not an academic so if it doesn't work you can cut them!

DT mentioned Iago (among others) as a character he still wanted to play [🙏🙏🙏pls & ty]

One of the questions was about how his Shakespeare performances informed his part in Rivals. The response was that Jilly Cooper and Shakespeare actually have a lot in common in that they understand how humans act and wouldn't shy away from bawdiness etc.

They did mention Richard III a fair amount but the specifics aren't coming to mind

They talked about reviews and how you can dismiss the bad ones but if you do that then you can't really take only the good ones to heart. My friend noted that this topic was the only time GD looked slightly uncomfortable during the talk but I can't say I noticed that.

I didn't actually write notes at the time so I'm sure I missed a bunch, but my other take away from this was how charismatic and naturally funny DT came across.

[seaofreverie]

New (new for me) Sparks album time, Interior Design. I really like it!!! I'm now at this point in my catching up adventure where most of the albums I have left are mostly the more divisive or just less talked about ones, but even among those I found that I'll generally land on the "it's underrated" rather than "it's worse" opinion, or even "it's super underrated" in the case of Introducing and Balls.

So yeah, I agree that this album's underrated. I do also agree though that you could consider it not exceptionally innovative or anything like that. And well, that's fine by me. All I can say is that it's a pleasant listen start to end. Maybe I just like this particular style, even if it's very clearly indicative of that time and that could make it dated I suppose. Still though, something about the, let's call it, "aggresively 80s" Sparks albums makes them very charming to me.

My favourite song is definitely Love-O-Rama, but Stop Me If You've Heard This Before is a close runner up. (I also really like Let's Make Love, it feels like a very unique song to me in a way that I can't really explain, I mostly love the vocal delivery on that one part, you know, the "feelin in my HEART! feelin in my SOUL!" part. And You Got a Hold of My Heart instantly reminded me of like, Gamecube music. I don't knowwww, but I like it)

Also I like coming up with place or setting associations for albums. So here my brain immediately pictured driving around a big city on a rainy summer day. I think it fits so I'm sticking with that image.

[earlgreytea68]

LOOK AWAY IF YOU DON'T WANT SO MUCH FOR (TOUR) DUST SPOILERS, OKAY?

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Set list:

(1) That Pink Seashell spoken word thing actually opens the show

(2) Love from the Other Side: I assumed they'd play this first, and they did, and they looked very happy with the reception that it got

(3) The Phoenix

(4) Sugar, We're Goin Down: I overheard two guys when I was leaving saying, "I only came to this show for that Sugar song, and it was the third song they played," whatever to those two guys lol

(5) Uma Thurman

(6) A Litttle Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More Touch Me

(7) Chicago Is So Two Years Ago: I know they always play this song when they play Chicago but the way the show is set up, there's this spoken intro that references a light being left on in Chicago, and then they launch into this song, and so I feel like maybe it's permanently in the set list for this tour, we'll see.

(8) Grand Theft Autumn: Patrick told the story again of how he wrote the lyrics while jogging with Pete. Here is exactly what he said, because I recorded it, hahaha: "I wrote this song out here, jogging, trying to figure out the words. This was back when I wrote a lot of the words. And Pete was jogging with me and he was like, 'Eh, maybe change this, maybe change this.' Before we knew it he was writing all the lyrics." And then Pete said, "Imagine us jogging" lolololol

(9) Calm Before the Storm

(10) This Ain't a Scene, It's an Arms Race: They added a little Peterick-y moment in here? I don't remember them playing at each other during this song in previous performances? It was cute, it was during the instrumental part before Patrick leads the singalong, maybe I've just always missed it? They played it each other and kind of did some kind of kick thing with their legs??

(11) Disloyal Order of Water Buffaloes: Honestly, always a delight to hear this song, this is one of my favorites <3

(12) Heaven, Iowa: THIS SONG LIVE, I SWEAR

(13) "The Take Over, the Breaks Over": OH MY GOD I LOVE THIS SONG AND I TOTALLY DIDN'T EXPECT THEM TO PLAY IT, I WAS SO HAPPY

(14) Headfirst Slide into Cooperstown on a Bad Bet: <3 Guess they got over being scared of playing this one lol

(15) Fake Out: I CANNOT TELL YOU HOW EXCITED I WAS THAT THEY PLAYED THIS ONE OMGGGGGGG. Also, there was some plan I wasn't aware of to, like, hold up cell phones with pink paper over the lights so the crowd lit up pink???? I have no idea who engineered that but it was CHARMING and at the end of the song Pete said, "Thanks for that, guys, that was beautiful," and the stage was on darkness so it seemed absolutely spontaneous on his part and I think they really did like the effect, so, Idk, future shows, keep doing it????

(16) Patrick did some kind of piano interlude where he played "Don't Stop Believin'"????? It was random but he was super charming, I think the rest of the band used it as a break, it was just SO GREAT. Part of his intro was: "Pete was putting together this show and he said to me, 'Hey, you should play piano.' And I was like, 'I kinda only play songs I wrote. I don't really play piano. I don't know how to play piano.' And he's like, 'Eh, you'll figure it out.'" And then Patrick sat down and played gorgeous piano ugh THANKS, PETE.

(17) Last of the Real Ones: I am glad Mania got some love.

(18) Save Rock and Roll

(19) PETE RECITED BABY ANNIHILATION WHAT. I SWEAR TO GOD. I SO DID NOT EXPECT THIS AND I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THAT IT HAPPENED. If you're going to the show, pay attention, because I looked away and apparently there's, like, a magic trick at the end of the monologue where he disappears behind a piece of black silk?????

(20) Crazy Train cover: I...don't know what to say about this randomness hahaha but it happened??

(21) Dance Dance

(22) Hold Me Like a Grudge: I think Patrick adores singing this song, I really do.

(23) G.I.N.A.S.F.S.: I KNOW. I CAN'T BELIEVE IT, EITHER.

(24) My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up)

(25) Thnks fr th Mmrs

(26) Centuries

(27) Saturday <3

The show ends with a little piano version of So Much (for) Stardust played over the sound system, so pay attention for that.

The set is super Alice in Wonderland-y and I adored it, it's playful and fantastical and has all these whimsical touches and interludes and I just thought it was delightful and at one point there were bubbles, and I heard some people complaining after the concert that the fantasy thing didn't suit their style of music and really, I was surrounded by downers after the concert, I thought they were perfect hahaha. Like, ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. They looked so, so, so tangibly happy, all of them. Patrick sounded fantastic and he looked like he was having a blast, he smiled the whole time.

I have a lot of videos but they seem like they're all pretty terrible, but I'll see how I feel in the morning lol

[daydreamingatnight209]

I’m not sure on how I feel about this one, but I’m posting it anways 😅🤞

Feedback is welcome - Hate is not ✨💕

“My Best Friend, My Girlfriend, My Everything”

Colson Baker x Female Reader

Warnings - Slight angst, fluffy ending 💕

Prompts used: Credit goes to all original owners -

1. "How drunk are you?" "V...Very." "Drunk enough not to remember tonight? "Hmm." "Good. I love you. And I'm tired of being just your best friend."

2. "He will never know that I like him." "Why?" "Because I'm just one of the million stars, and he's the moon.

3. I can’t believe it took me all these years to realise how I truly feel about you.

4. "Wow those bloodstained clothes really bring out your eyes... Of course I'm being sarcastic! Get over here and let me stitch you up!"

—————————————————————————

Most would think that traveling with an international superstar who also happened to be your lifelong best friend, would mean hitting the jackpot in life. But realistically after a month stuck surrounded by testosterone in such close quarters with a bunch of men who often act like overgrown toddlers , you can’t help but begin to feel like a glorified babysitter. You suppose it doesn’t help that you also happen to be ridiculously in love with said best friend.

After one particular show, you found yourself back on the tour bus while the others went out to celebrate another successful show.

Just because you were Colson’s friend, didn’t mean that you didn’t have your part to play. You liked to feel useful so you took up a part time role, sharing managerial duties with Ashley. This time you found yourself working with Sam to provide visual content for the fans and ensure that Colson’s schedule was running smoothly.

When the quietness you’d been experiencing over the last couple of hours suddenly ends, You couldn’t help but internally roll your eyes. climbing out of your bunk you go to see what all the commotion was about.

You enter the main sitting space and your mouth swings open in shock. In front of you Colson’s face was caked in blood and his clothes were stained with the same substance Rook was laughing hysterically at him and Slim had a smirk on his face, which he attempts to cover when he sees the look on your face.

“What in the actual hell happened here?!” You exclaim.

“Y/N helloooooo”

Colson rushes over to try and embrace you but you hold him at arms length, not wanting to get covered in his blood.

“Look at this, how cool does this look!” He says giddily, jumping around like an overgrown puppy, trying to show the jagged cut that seems to run down his forehead.

“Oh yeah really cool, those bloodstained clothes really bring out your eyes.”

Colson looks at you with glassy eyes and a slightly confused expression on his face and a pout on this face.

“Are you being sarcastic?”

“Yes, of course I am being sarcastic! Get in there and let me stitch you up!” You shout out in frustration and worry. You leave him alone for one night and this happens!

Grabbing his hand you force yourself and his tall frame into the tiny bathroom cubicle, with the first aid kit under the sink.

Colson collapses down onto the toilet seat as you begin to clean his face.

He winces softly as you clean around the wound and begin to apply the temporary stitches.

“How did this even happen anyways?” You ask him as he fiddles with the loose threads on your jumper.

“Rook said I couldn’t do parkour over a car, so obviously I had to prove him wrong” he mumbles, the amounts of alcohol he had consumed during the night finally catching up with him.

You couldn’t help but sport a small smile on your face, because of course it was something just so stupid.

Once you were satisfied with your work, you pack away the first aid kit and attempt to pull him up but Colson just pulls you down easily onto his lap and wraps his long arms around your frame.

“You are that best person I know Y/N. I’m so lucky to have you as my friend”

How drunk are you?" You whisper as you lean against his chest.

“V...Very."

"Drunk enough not to remember tonight?” You asked curious.

Normally Colson’s memory no matter what he drinks is top tier.

"Hmm yeah, probably” he answers, resting his head on your shoulder.

At that response and the fact that you didn’t want him falling asleep in the tiniest toilet possible you stand up and grab is hand once more. He doesn’t protest when you lead him to the back of the bus to where his bedroom is.

He throws his weight into the bed and watch him crawl under the covers.

“Night Kells” you whisper and go to exit the room to head back to your own bunk.

Before you can make it through the sliding door, your best friend speaks up, his voice raspy and slightly needy.

“Stay with me?”

You hesitate at first, not really knowing If you could handle being that close to him for the entire night. Your heart was already beating twice as fast as it should, but you aren’t really great at denying Colson. You never was. So when a cracked, “please” leaves his mouth, you cave and climb under the covers with him.

It doesn’t take long for sleep to claim him but the same doesn’t happen for you. You’ve lost count of how many times you and Colson have shared a bed over the years but where he sees friendship, recently you’ve been struggling to stop the lines from blurring.

Colson wraps you up in his arms subconsciously, like he’s done so many times before, yet this time you find yourself frozen as you stare softy at his peaceful sleeping face.

“I love you Colson Baker. I love you and I'm tired of being just your best friend."

A tear escapes your eye, letting it fall, you wait for what feels forever for sleep to fall over you.

———————————————————

The next morning you are up and out of Colson’s room before he awakens and do your best to avoid him and any awkward conversations that the day might entail. You weren’t exactly to ready to find out if he remembered his night.

No one really picks up on your behaviour and you think you made it through the day perfectly, before Ashley corners you backstage at soundcheck.

“You like him don’t you? In fact it’s more than that … you are in love with him”

Knowing that you can’t hide the truth from your friend, you look her in the eye and give her a sad smile.

“He can never know that I like him."

"Why?" Ash questions you.

"Because I'm just one of million stars, and he's the moon, he deserves so much better that me”

You slightly cruse the tears that begin falling once more and do your best to wipe them without ruining your make up.

Ash gives you a soft smile and shakes her head.

“I’ve seen the say that boy looks at you. You may think he’s the moon but he looks at you like you’re the one holding his entire world. Last night should have been enough evidence! It was you he wanted to patch him up, it was you he wanted attention from and it you he wanted to hold. It’s always you. It’s not about what you can give him or what he can give you, it’s simply about the love that you share and the happiness you provide each other. He doesn’t want to be Mr international superstar with you. He just wants to be Colson, your Colson.”

After her little speech, Ashley leaves you alone as you try and process her words. But you weren’t alone for long as a voice behind you startles you.

“She’s right you know.”

You gasp and turn to fave the voice you knew all too well.

“Colson! What the hell?!”

“She’s right” he repeats.

“Right about what exactly?”

“You might think I’m the moon, but you are my whole world. You are more than just a star, so, so much more.”

“Colson…” you close your eyes, unsure on if you want to have this conversation, but realistically you knew there was no escape.

Colson stalks forward, invading your personal space and holds your chin in his fingers so that you are holding direct eye contact with each other.

“I heard you last night… your confession. I wasn’t really asleep and frankly I’m surprised I remembered this morning. In all honesty i was going to pretend until you felt ready to have the conversation but after hearing what you said to Ashley, well I couldn’t pretend anymore. I can’t believe it took me all these years to realise how I truly feel about you. I can’t believe it took stupid dare inflicted injury and a single moment in a tour bus bathroom for everything to fall into place”

With shaky hands, your fingers touched the small wound on his head and caressed it lightly.

Not trusting your voice, you whisper out a quick response, “I’m so happy it did”.

Colson takes that as cue to plant a kiss on you, a moment you felt as if you could live in forever, before he pulls away to look at you.

“I’ll love, protect and cherish you, forever. My best friend, my girlfriend, my everything.”

[jsprnt]

Americano PT. 10 | Jude Bellingham x Reader

What happens if two individuals who absolutely despise each other are forced to interact after unforeseen events occur?

A/N: wrote this in between study breaks, I’m totally spent 😭😭

W/C: 3.523

part nine

"So, uh- do you have any allergies?"

I mutter awkwardly, standing in the middle of the kitchen, eyes on Jude as he sits across from me at the kitchen island.

He folds his arms across his chest, raising his head to look over at me.

"Are you planning something?" He eyes me suspiciously, causing a tired sigh to leave my mouth.

"Shut up- answer the question.." I raise my wooden spoon, threatening him.

"No, I don't have any allergies. Is that good enough?" He replies, Brum accent making him sound even more defensive.

"Ungrateful ass.." I mutter, turning around and starting to work on breakfast.

I had slept horribly after last night’s events. I'd reckon- maybe, six hours in total. It was our day off- thankfully, but that didn't mean that I trusted Jude to rummage through my house on his own while I rotted away in bed.

My dad had called earlier, wanting to explain the situation to me clearly without leaving any important details out.

Apparently, last night Jude's place was broken into again. This time, he was at home to actually witness it happen. I'm not sure what transpired between the intruder and Jude. Since, my dad had told me it would be too invasive for me to know.

From what I knew, it was the same person as last time- or how many damn times this had happened. This case had been keeping my dad busy for months now, and it only found a way to piss me off even more.

Either Jude had the shittiest security, or- did he even have security?

"Can't believe I'm cooking for you.." I mutter, hearing the drag of his house slippers against the floor as he walks up to me.

"What are you making?"

I move away, so he doesn't touch me, giving him a side eye as I crack four eggs in a pan.

"Eggs.." I say, moving back when oil splashes up.

"Can you cook?" He asks, eyes moving in between the stove and my face.

"Kind of.." I say, hesitating with my reply.

I knew how to cook the basics. Say, your pastas and soups. Though, I like to think I'm improving every time auntie Carmen comes over to show me how to cook another delicious meal.

"How do you like your eggs?" I ask, raising my head to look up at him. He has a confused expression on his face and his gaze is fixed on me.

Fuck, did that sound wrong?

"More runny or cooked?" I ask, grimacing to myself as I sprinkle salt and pepper into the pan.

"You've cooked it- enough.."

"Oh, okay.." I mentally curse at how stupid I sound, looking away from him.

I quickly plate it up for him, not forgetting the avocado and barely toasted pieces of bread.

Well, too bad for him.

We eat our breakfast without speaking to each other. I can only hear the crunch of my bread and clatter of the cutlery against the plates.

I look up at him when I've cleared my plate, wiping crumbs from the corners of my mouth.

"How long are you staying?"

"Are you trying to kick me out already?"

I give him a look, raising my brows as if to tell him he already knows my answer.

"I don't know- depends on the situation.." He says, rubbing his hands against his gray sweatpants.

I sigh, rubbing my temples in irritation.

"Where's your mom anyway?" I ask, remembering that they literally lived together.

"I made her go back to England for my brother’s games. She's always spending more time with me- felt bad for the lad.." He answers, looking away.

"Last night?" I ask, raising my voice in surprise.

"No, during international break. I wasn't playing remember.."

"Oh- that's good, I guess.." I trail off, realizing we're going to be home alone for a while.

Silence falls in between us, and I begin picking at the loose threads of my old pajama top. It was old, but so comfy to sleep in.

"Okay, uh- let's clean up, and I'll give you a quick tour of the place." I jump up from my seat, grabbing my plate off the table, and walk over to the sink.

I look back when he doesn't get up. I raise a brow, sending him a questioning look.

"What are you doing? Clean up.." I say, waving him over. I watch him grab his plate and cutlery- a comical sight that had me struggling to keep my composure.

He places the plate in front of me, looking at me like he's expecting me to do something.

I step back, folding my arms.

Woah, he looked clueless.

"Do you even know how to do- like the dishes or laundry?" I ask, eyeing him up and down.

"Not really.."

"You're what? Twenty and don't know how to do your own laundry?" I pull a horrified face.

"Do you think it's okay to freeload?" I question, immediately grabbing his wrist to drag him upstairs to the laundry room.

Did he think this was a five-star hotel or something?

"I can't believe I have to drive you there. Why don't you have a license?" I whine, walking into the bathroom and seeing him fix his hair. The array of skincare, haircare and bodycare all on the counter in front of him.

Why did I think that he only used a block of soap and aftershave?

He turns away from the mirror, taking a step closer to me as I passive aggressively grab my toothbrush.

"Why wouldn't you want to drive me?" He questions, his voice full of mockery.

I wet my toothbrush and the blob of toothpaste, starting to brush my teeth as I look up at him.

"Do you know how crazy it looks for a staff member to arrive with a player in her car?"

I mumble, probably half audible, as I spit foam into the sink.

He grimaces at me, and I watch him take a step away from me via the mirror.

"Oh, you're dramatic.." I mumble, running the brush over my teeth again.

"Everyone thinks we're together anyway- does it even matter at this point?"

I freeze, turning to him with white foam dripping down the corner of my mouth.

"That's even worse.." I shake my head, giving him a once-over before starting to rinse my mouth.

"Pre-match meal is at...?" I question, waiting for him to finish the sentence while I dry my hands and mouth.

"Half past two." He replies, making me nod.

"Okay- give me an hour.." I say, quickly running to my room to change and get ready.

It was match day against Granada. Thankfully, after this we got some more days off.

We had to get to the training center early, mainly due the fact that I had become Jude’s private driver.

When my father told me I had to drive him around, I almost fell to my knees in sheer despair, not believing the torture I had to go through.

I didn’t even get anything in return, well, maybe I’d bug my dad for another pretty handbag- or two.

Pre-match meals are usually about three to four hours before the match. Normally, I could arrive very late and still manage to snatch a nice plate, but because of Jude - that wasn't possible today, and probably until he’s moved out of my place.

y/n's only half-way through her 'getting ready' playlist when she hears multiple loud knocks on her bedroom door.

"What?! Stop banging on my door! You don't even pay rent!" She shouts over the music, watching the door handle twist.

She turns away from her vanity mirror, makeup brush in her hand, as she sees Jude walk into her room.

"Who invited you in?" She questions, gasping when he goes to sit on her nicely made bed, wrinkling the fabric.

"Me, you’re taking so-” He begins, but he's immediately cut off when she shouts.

"Wait- shut up.."

She says, turning away to sing along with the song currently playing from her phone.

"We do the things but we know it's wrong

All on my skin, you all in my palm

I sent you a envelope, came with a poem

You possess venom that came with a charm

You get the good out me when I perform

I know the bad in you, that's what I want

And you a baddie, you turnin' me on."

Seems like she forgets he's even in her room, singing along to the Future verse while she dots a good amount of blush on the apples of her cheek.

He sighs loudly, continuing to stare at her from behind. She doesn’t notice at all, now way too invested into getting ready while listening to her favorite songs.

Jude runs a frustrated hand over his face, taking in the way she sings along with the all-too-familiar-sounding song lyrics, hoping she can hurry up soon.

"Do I have to take you home too?" I ask, getting up from the comfy chair I'm in. Following Jude towards the dressing room. Relieved after a 2-0 win against Granada.

The sound of his cleats hitting the floor is loud, and I stop right at the entrance of the dressing room when he stops in his tracks.

"I can call a taxi, probably.."

I search his face for any annoyance or anger, but don't see anything like it. Instead, in a strangely familiar way- his eyes are wide and expressive. He looks more unsure and uncomfortable than I've ever seen him.

"It's fine- we're going to the same house anyway.." I whisper, dismissing his words with a wave. 

"I have to go back to the training center though.. Can you stand tagging along with me?" I question, raising my brows in anticipation.

"Yeah, I'll just get freshened up really quick.." He says, stepping inside and closing the door since he was the last player to enter.

After saying bye to everyone, I sneakily walk up to my car. Almost jumping out of my skin when I see Jude already standing at the passenger door.

"What are you- get in.." I sigh, unlocking the door and stepping in.

The ride over to the training center is awkward and quiet, to say the least. I'm not in the mood to look through my playlist- and I'm sure he isn't either, by the way he's busy scrolling on his phone.

I park my car in my designated spot in the staff parking lot, looking over at him.

"Do you want to stay in the car?" I ask, unbuckling my seatbelt, and glancing at him.

"No, I'll come with you.." He replies, stepping out of the passenger’s seat and following me inside.

"I need to leave this bag here.." I inform, locking the car as the both of us walk inside the center.

He doesn't reply, not that it's necessary.

I walk up to the office, still hearing Jude walk right behind me.

"You're following me like a lost puppy.." I mutter, unlocking the door of the room I'm supposed to leave the equipment in.

"Okay, damn, I'll be downstairs.." He sneers, turning away and leaving immediately.

I shrug to myself when he leaves, finishing my business before going down as well.

I shove my keys into my bag, swinging it on my shoulder, then go looking around for Jude.

I enter the meeting room he and other players would hang out in, but don't see him. Stepping out, I look up from the door, walking in and out of the other meeting rooms.

"Where the fuck are you?" I mutter, reaching for my phone to call him, only to remember that I don't even have his phone number.

"Looking for something?"

I almost scream out loud when I hear a deep voice behind me. I turn, trying to not look like the person scared the crap out of me.

Oh, the creepy coworker. How fun.

"No, just dropped off some equipment upstairs.." I quickly say, rubbing my hand against my jeans.

I watch his eyes flicker to the keycard around my neck, which I forgot to take off.

"Coming from Bernabéu, y/n?"

Why did he know my name?

"Yeah, busy day.."

He stares at me, not saying anything else. I mentally hype myself up to say something, maybe to learn more about him.

"What's your name? We've seen each other around, but I don't know your name.” I say, shifting nervously as his blue eyes peer into mine.

"Andrés, fitness department. I'm new.." He says, sticking out a ghostly hand for me to shake.

"Right, nice to meet you. I would introduce myself too, but you seem to know already. How come?" His grip is tight, so I tighten it even more.

Give me a rough handshake, and I’ll break your hand out of pettiness.

"Everyone here knows you.." He replies, there is a harsh, but breathiness to his voice and it causes chills to run down my spine.

I clear my throat, realizing he still hasn't let go of my hand.

"Because of my father, yeah.." I fake a chuckle, trying to pull my hand back.

"No, not because of mister l/n.." My breath hitches audibly at his tone, and I try to snatch my hand back even more forcefully.

He doesn't even flinch, continuing to stare down at me.

"y/n, here you are.." I hear a familiar voice say, breaking out of this weird fucking trance.

My head snaps up, my eyes going wide, when I see Jude stepping out of the meeting room I had not checked out yet.

I use the opportunity to snatch my hand away from Andrés, rubbing my hand to fix my blood flow.

I watch Jude give him a look, death stare imminent when he walks up to us.

"Andrés? What are you doing here, it's late." He says, for some reason, slower than I have ever heard him speak.

"Work, busy.." He answers, trying to speak English with a broken Spanish accent.

Oh, he didn't speak English?

I watch a strange interaction between them, a jumble of Spanish and English. I try my best to understand, but it seems like both men throw in some gibberish too.

Finally, when they're done with their simlish, I'm grabbed by my hand, dragged away by Jude.

"What the hell is his problem?" I exclaim, still feeling my hand ache from the pressure.

"He's been fuckin' weird, don’t like him..” He mutters, walking ahead of me while still dragging me along.

I struggle to catch up with his long strides, his warm palm pressing into mine as he looks back at me.

"You okay?" He questions, stopping abruptly, causing me to smash my face against his arm.

"Ow- not anymore.." I mutter, rubbing my nose in agony with my free hand.

"Oh- shit, sorry.." He spits, his hand still on mine. I remove my hand from my face, raising my chin to look up at him.

"Am I bleeding?" A dramatic question, but you never knew with his rock-hard, muscular- arms..

I blink up at him, feeling his hand come up to my chin. He pinches my face, making me move my head.

"No, no blood- I think.." He breathes out, eyes roaming around my face to check for any blood.

I make sudden, close eye contact with him. His brown eyes catching mine, breath fanning my face.

We stare at each other for a moment. His hand still clearly on mine while he cups my face to look at me.

I realize the position we're in and step back. I eye our intertwined hands, looking back up at him as if to tell him to let go.

He clears his throat, dropping my hand like it's hot, and stepping back.

I decide to pretend I don't give a fuck. Ignoring the drumming of my heart, and grab my car key out of my bag.

"Get in.."

"Smash.." I say, maybe for the 10th time this hour.

"Oh my days, can you stop saying that?" Jude exclaims, a bewildered expression on his face as he looks over at me.

"Can't, it's Michael B. Jordan, and you want me to sit still?" I ask, earning a grunt from him.

"You're unbelievable.."

I ignore him, continuing to drool over the screen while I shove popcorn into my mouth.

"What are you going to do? You're off for four days.." I ask, sprawled out on the couch, in front of the TV.

"I have physical therapy every day, can't leave the city.." He complains, sitting on the couch across from me.

"Oh, how inconvenient- wait, who's driving you?.."

"Don't you worry, I've got someone driving me.." He sneers, folding his arms.

I roll my eyes, going back to watch the movie on the screen.

A hot man could make a boring movie so incredibly interesting.

"I'm not home tomorrow. Will you survive being home alone for the rest of your day?" I question, flickering my eyes back to him.

"Where are you going?"

"Taking my last exam, library helps me focus better.." I stuff another handful of popcorn into my mouth.

"Last one?"

"Yeah, I need to go revise a little." I sit up, pausing the movie, and getting up from the couch.

"Have it.." I shove the bowl of popcorn into his hands, walking up the stairs to my room. Ready for this exam to be over already.

“What the fuck was that.." I whisper to myself, hitting my head on my steering wheel repeatedly. I had long driven home from the library, not caring to step out of the car, parked in the driveway.

I had studied hours on end, but when I was presented with the questions, my brain practically short circuited, causing me to blank out so much information I needed to know.

I'm on the verge of tears at this point. Normally, after the last exam of the semester, I'd be jumping from joy, but the way this exam had gone- I wanted to cry buckets of tears.

I sniffle, wiping my nose with my sleeve. Not caring about the foundation stain left on it, and grab my bag from the backseat. I get out of my car, unlocking the front door of my house quickly.

I expect the house to be quiet, but instead I hear loud music. Old 80s songs, solely about love. Music only I knew auntie Carmen loved listening to while cooking.

I drop my bag at the front door, blinking repeatedly to hide the tears in my eyes. I shrug my jacket off, the December cold had come in full force. Though, to me, nothing was worse than winter in London anyway.

"Harina, say it, young man.." I hear auntie Carmen say in Spanish, a voice following behind her.

"Harina? Harina.." A broken accented voice says. I raise my brows, my tears and worries in the back of my mind now.

Curiosity takes over, and I immediately walk towards the kitchen, where the noises are coming from.

I'm greeted by the sight of auntie Carmen and Jude standing next to each other. Both wearing aprons as they are kneading dough on the kitchen island. Flour sprinkled on the marble as I hear Jude repeat random Spanish words, often getting corrected by my auntie.

She didn't even speak a lick of English. How did they even communicate?

I clear my throat, taking their attention away from the slabs of dough on the counter.

"Oh- you're home.." She smiles warmly at me, beckoning me over with a flour-covered hand.

"What's this?" I ask, stepping closer and speaking in Spanish.

"We're making pizza from scratch, sweetie." She says, giving me a kiss on my cheek.

"With him?" I point to Jude, watching him pound the dough with unnecessary aggression.

"What do you mean? Jude is so good at this, look at him go..” She smiles, saying his name with the utmost affection. He looks up confused, but I ignore him further.

What the hell did he do to make her like him already?

"Your boyfriend is a better cook than you already..”

I pull a horrified face, eyes going wide as my arms fall to my sides. I glance at Jude, noticing that he hadn’t even flinched at the words.

Thankfully, his Spanish classes weren’t so advanced yet…

I lean in close to her, whispering, well whisper-shouting.

“He’s not my boyfriend..” I say, pulling a face. I watch the corners of her eyes crinkle as she smiles.

“I know, I’m just joking. Your dad called me about this entire situation already..”

“Why would you say that, then?”

“He’s handsome, isn’t he..” She says out loud, making me facepalm.

First, he steals my dad’s time, then my house, and now my auntie?

I look at him, watching him knead the dough, a smirk forming on his face.

I want to strangle him right here and now..

It’s only been a couple days, and this was too much for me already.

[stars-and-the-min]

☆ the wrong way to hard launch (7) | OP81

summary : oscar's girlfriend is a walking pr problem for literally everyone (including herself) social media au

pairing : oscar piastri x zhou!fem!singer!oc

a/n switch out one shitty ex for a slightly less shitty one

masterlist | last part | part 7 | next part

ARTICLE

Revisiting 'Twelve More Days' : How Empty Bottles Spun Their Signature Sound on its Head on Tour April 12, 2024 · Written by Catherine Moore

Almost halfway through the Asian leg of their world tour, it's finally time to talk about what the pandemic-era rock band Empty Bottles has been up to. For greener artists, it's the cookie-cutter way to stick to a genre that has previously worked and give the masses what they want but instead, Empty Bottles have taken their 2022 sophomore sensation 'Twelve More Days' and tweaked the songs for their world tour.

Long-time fans of the Sydney-born band are familiar with the classic rock elements that brought Empty Bottles into the spotlight; claiming influence from fellow Sydneysiders 5 Seconds of Summer, Arctic Monkeys and other croony rock artists, so it was a rather big surprise for critics and fans alike when the album opened with a much softer, hypnotising approach.

The even bigger surprise was the creative and musical approach they took with their tour. As noted by various critics back during the album release, 'Twelve More Days' had a not-so-subtle jazz flavour to their sound, and the band seems to have embraced the jazz-rock sound by opening their tour with a speakeasy-style set, complete with the band decked out in snazzy 1930s reminiscent suits and frontwoman Selina Bui in glittery minidresses, opera gloves and a thematic vintage ribbon microphone.

Despite close to three years since she last performed in front of a live audience, Bui took to the stage like a fish to water, instantly entrancing her audience with her universally acknowledged rich sirenic vocals, drawing in the attention and sending the venue back to a 1930s speakeasy. Strangely, she performs this part of the show without her trusty guitar, leaving the grunt work on the other lead guitarist, talented Lukas Zhang, who delivers without a hiccup with no twin guitar to help cover any mistakes.

Quite a few of the sophomore album's songs are given a jazz-rock twist that nobody could have predicted. Other already jazz-influenced songs - namely deluxe track number 13 'money talks' and track 6 'typo' - have been breathed to life, as well as a couple of songs from the band's debut album 'overtime'.

Empty Bottles then returns after a brief intermission with their award-winning pop-rock sound, spending the rest of the set in much more familiar-looking leather jackets and t-shirts and a guitar returned to Bui's hand. Bui, very well known for having an interesting sense of humour, made the choice of returning to the stage with the fitting song choice of 'do you remember me?'. One thing you have to give the 22-year-old is that she really does know how to pick her moments, and the now-iconic first chords of the cocky, energetic track are enough to send the crowd screaming.

The exploration into the many subgenres of what is considered rock 'n' roll has always been a very fuzzy point of conversation, and it's been an honour seeing Empty Bottles have fun playing jump rope over that line. What makes this tour such a raving success is their perfect balance of experimentation and keeping to what is tried and true for them; the classic, hard-hitting, no-nonsense, inane-lyricism rock coupled magnetically with Bui's captivating execution on stage.

Would you find me at one of their shows again? Absolutely, there was truly nothing more thrilling than the first moments you see Selina Bui walk onto stage with her infamous cheshire cat smile. What did I personally think about the sound change? I was pleasantly surprised at how seamlessly they've adjusted the songs to fit the jazz-rock genre, I also believe that they have found the perfect sound to complement Selina Bui's voice. It's uncanny how it just clicked that she was born to sing the soft, almost lullaby-like, calming songs. If they were to release another album with a similar soft sound, I would happily eat it up.

Empty Bottles wrap up the Asian leg of the tour in Bangkok, Thailand later this month and then shortly begin the European leg in Sofia, Bulgaria.

INSTAGRAM

cameliazzz

liked by aidan_ebass and 122,394 others

cameliazzz life lately 🐾 tagged: selinabui

aidan_ebass Yes ma'am 🫡 ↳ selinabui @aidan_ebass i'm dying u are such an old man ↳ lukaszhang @ selinabui he's like barely a year older than you??

cami.png the hottest drummer ever 💜💜💜

conangray a little commotion for the drummer pls and thank you ↳ cameliazzz @ conangray stop i'm blushing 🙈

TWITTER

fiona🩷 @fififorlina · 4h i mean we can all thank tommy for one thing and that's for twelve more days lmao ↳ lina bui x2 grammy winner @urdaisea · 3h i forget that not all empty bottles fans have read this article but i think they all should: Why 'Twelve More Days' isn't a Break-Up Album, it's a Healing One

emme @flowersforcami · 1h yes twelve more days is full of t*mmy slander BUT remember that all the band members have writing credits and they ALL helped write songs so basically what i'm trying to say is that twelve more days is actually the rest of the band roasting the shit out of lina's ex ↳ emme @flowersforcami · 1h every one of those bitches rocked up to the studio and went for blood. that is a universally hated man in their group chat.

amie <3 @mieflrs · 2h it's been 3 years, i think it's time to admit that keeping tabs is absolutely not about thomas fucking howard ↳ amie <3 @mieflrs · 2h i don't care how delusional u are, where in those 3 minutes 54 seconds did you hear a single line that sounds like anything like that sorry excuse of a man??? now a certain japanese-american singer who is exceptionally hot playing the guitar on the other hand... ↳ lukas 🔛🔝 @lukiepookie28 · 2h yes i agree it's not about t*mmy but it's also not about CHRISTOPHER like WTF R U ON???

oscalina real ?! @ emptyginbottles · 32m we're in an oscalina drought and it's plain to see not all of us are coping well

MESSAGES

from the phone of selina bui

INSTAGRAM

selinabui

liked by chrisyamada, oscarpiastri and 279,384 others

selinabui now he's thinkin' 'bout me every night, oh is it that sweet? i guess so

amelia_belrose pop!lina perhaps 🫣

oscarpiastri Didn't need to call me out like that ↳ selinabui @ oscarpiastri don't tell me u miss me already

sabrinacarpenter she's working late coz she's a singer

lukaszhang woman you hate coffee what are you on ↳ selinabui @lukaszhang why are u even here

MESSAGES

from the phone of selina bui

TWITTER

Yamada Updates @chrisyamadanews · 2h 🚨| Chris spotted at the Empty Bottles 'Twelve More Days' Tour in Seoul Night 2

Yamada Updates @chrisyamadanews · 32m 🚨| CHRIS ONSTAGE WITH EMPTY BOTTLES!!!

↳ Yamada Updates @chrisyamadanews · 30m this made me break ok, i am so fucking thrown off. WDYM WE GOT SELINA BUI AND CHRISTOPHER YAMADA ON STAGE TOGETHER IN THE YEAR 2024???

mabel @ maplemabel32 · 25m i can't breathe chris and lina??? chris and lina???????? after so long??? CHRISTOPHER AND SELINA???? as in "hello it's chris" "and lina"??? MY BESTIES REUNITED???

june @linafesting · 18m sometimes, i'm convinced lina spins a wheel on how to break the internet today

↳ kat ୨୧ @yamayaps · 2m with all due respect, this stunt was NAUT selina's idea, this was a move that christopher 'no boundaries' yamada suggested

INSTAGRAM

emptybottles_official Olympic Gymnastics Arena

liked by chrisyamada and 334,294 others

emptybottles_official Nowhere as incredible as Seoul! Always special to have @chrisyamada join us on stage. tagged: chrisyamada

chrisyamada someone better return the favor later 👀 ↳ selinabui @chrisyamada u begged me to let u come what are u on ↳ chrisyamada @ selinabui ok maybe i did

pi4str1 ok someone catch me up bc i did not know chris and lina were friends??? ↳ linasgirl4 @pi4str1 it's probably best we don't get into it

✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:

taglist @ririyulife @ashy-kit @fionaschicken @namgification @cherry-piee

[herejusttosufferalong]

I am just going to remember what I've seen and heard during the press tour, red carpets, interviews, BTS, etc. That is information that has come directly from the sources. There was a lot that was said or slipped out during those interviews, which also seemed pretty genuine to me. That man is an open book and wears his heart on his sleeve. In my whole Gen X jaded life I have never seen two actors behave that way on a red carpet or in interviews, especially if there were possible significant others involved. I also don't think anyone has changed their whole persona overnight.

Social media is not life. We have no idea what is happening in private nor should we. What has changed in the last month? Nothing. We all saw the same type of vacation photos a few weeks ago. I have never believed this 23-year-old with a social media account is anything more than a person who is part of a friend group and possibly just a deflection. Sometimes negative attention is better than no attention.

L and N have been best friends and colleagues for many years. There is a lot more to their relationship than we ever will or should know. They have to play their characters at minimum one more season and probably more. I think it could be awhile before there's any confirmation of a relationship if at all. These are two great people who showed the world how much they care for each other. I'm convinced they realize it.

Just my two cents coming from someone who married her Colin and has been married for 26 years. I guess I just wish the same for them!

Still in the WH, obvs.

P.S. Love the blog. You have a great sense of humor!

Aww thx anon 😊

Glad you are here 💜🥃

[pedripics]

Pedri via Residency - May 28, 2024

What is something you still want to accomplish in life? - " A lot of things. I am still very young or do you already want to kill me?"

Favourite teammate at Barça? - "I am close with the group in general but Ferran"

Do you play any instruments? or would you like to learn how to play one? - "Better not for the sake of the rest of the people. I like to listen to music but not much else" Favourite series or movie? - "Mi reno de peluche and the one about chapo guzman; favourite favourite is Prison Break and La que se avecina"

Do you know anything about Armenia? - "not too much, to be honest… but recently a very nice driver took me to a shooting was from there. His name was Ara"

Favourite moment of the season? - "It wasn't the best season. On a personal level, I would say the brace."

How do you deal with criticism? - "I try to stay out of it, although it's not always possible, of course... you have to try and keep going and keep believing in yourself"

How do you feel about being able to play for Spain after such a long time? - "Very happy. I haven't been able to play for Spain for a long time. Hopefully we will have great EUROs and also a great 24/25 season with Barça"

How did you feel after the brace? - "crazyyyyy"

"I always try to stop and sign, because I remember when I asked for signatures as a kid"

Plans for the summer? - "I hope to go on vacation, but in a month and a half… that will mean that we go far in the euro with the national team"

Have you eaten German food before? - "Yesss... a member of my marketing team is German and he made us German food a long time ago, with sausages and so on"

How is your English? - "I still have to improve a lot. Give me a few months and I will answer in English"

Do you miss doing anything in your daily life? - "I can't complain. I like to live in peace"

Would you like to go to China? - "Of course, yes. Althpugh in the season there is not really time for anything and during holidays I prefer to stay close and rest. Let's see if we ever have a tour in China"

How many trophies have you won? - "With Barça, La Liga, Copa and Supercopa"

Do you feel ready for the EUROs? - "Siiii"

5 UCL Trophies or a World Cup? - "I don't want to choose. I would like to win it all"

Would you like to play against Portugal in the EUROs final? - "Sure. As long as we play in the final, I don't care against who it is"

Pele or Maradona? - "Maradona... Because he played for Barça and my father told me about him when I was younger. I remember the day he died very well because it was my 18th birthday"

Have you been to New York? - "Yes"

Favourite team to play against? - "Obviously Barça" (he did NOT understand that question lmaooo back to duolingo it is)

Visit Uruguay? You have a lot of fans here - "Ronald also told me once... We'll have to listen to him, because otherwise he gets angry"

How was it going to the Spanish GP in 2022? Are you going this year? - "It was a crazy experience. I don't think I can go this year because it clashes with the EUROs"

Do you like going to concerts? - "I haven't been to many, honestly... I have yet to go to one of Quevedo's. And last year they invited me from Spotify to see Coldplay in Barcelona but in the end I didn't go and I regretted it a little. Teammates went and they love it" (who tf turns down coldplay tickets??? 😭)

Your dad is a great person. - "The best"

How do you feel about receiving so much love? - "Very proud and privileged"

Do you want to score for Spain during the EUROs? - "Clarooo. Let's see if I can make it happen, because I haven't scored for Spain yet"

Red or blue? - "Azulgrana"

Do you like to cook? - "I'm not very good at cooking... My brother and mother are much better"

Pedri or Pedro? - "Pedri... Pedro sounds strange to me. From a young age they already called me Pedri, because there was another boy in the team whose name was Pedro and it was to differentiate us... and everyone calls me Pedri"

What do you think of Alexia, Aitana and Marta? - "They are top footballers!"

Is it difficult to have a 'normal' life? - "It's not easy, but mine doesn't change that much because I really like to be quiet and at home"

Only fish or only meat? - "I prefer meat... but for nutrition, fish"

When you were a kid did you make trouble in class? - "I was more of a quite kid"

Who do you think will win the Golden Boy award? - "Well, I hope a Barça teammate. Lamine, and if not Cubarsi"

What inspires you to perform at such a high level on the field? - "I do what I like the most"

What do you think of your season at Barça this year? - "I was saying this the other day. It hasn't been an easy season and I hope the next one will be much better in every single way and we will win titles"

Have you ever wished to have a sister? - "My mother always wanted to have a daughter, but in the end she had to settle for Fer and me hahaha"

How do you feel for the EUROs? - "Very good. Better and better"

Blue or Black? - "Blue"

[daisyblog]

I'm Late

Our Story Masterlist Summary: YN realises her period is late. Warning: swearing, missed period, possible pregnancy

YN's POV:

We were in New York for a couple of days as the boys were playing at the MetLife Stadium. As it was our sister Lottie’s birthday, Louis and I decided to fly her out for a few days to join us. She had arrived yesterday afternoon with Eleanor, so we had been catching up in between the busy tour schedule. Us girls, including Sophia Liam’s girlfriend, had planned to go and do a bit of shopping whilst the boys were in rehearsals ahead of the show this evening. I was in mine and Harry’s hotel room, sitting on the floor in front of the large silver mirror finishing putting mascara on and Harry was still in the shower when there was a desperate knock, and the door flew open and Lottie appeared. “Lotts..you can’t just walk in here babe..Harry could have been getting dressed or somethin’” “Well..it’s an emergency..I’ve forgotten to bring pads with me and..and..I don’t know where to get any from” she ranted in panic. “Alright..calm down..I’ve got some in me bag” I calmed her and got up from my position and went over to my suitcase where I kept my toiletries. I picked up the product and passed them to her “There you go babe”. “Thaaaanks…you’re a life saver..I’ll see ya later” “See ya later Lotts..oh and remember to wait after you knock next time” I reminded her as she walked out of the hotel room and muttered a ‘yeah whatever’. As I sat back down to continue getting ready, a thought came to me. How did I have a full packet of pads still? When did I last have a period? I brought my Clue app on my phone to check…’late for 4 days’…”Shit…shit..fook..shit” I kept repeating to myself. For a moment, I didn’t move, I sat and thought. How could I be late? I’ve never been late, ever! I’m on the pill…I couldn’t be..could I? I was lost in my own thoughts and didn’t hear the bathroom door open and Harry steps out until his voice startled me. “What’s going on in that pretty head of yours?” he spoke as he proceeded to pull a pair of black shorts up over his legs and up to his hips, hiding some of his tattoos.

“Umm..I-I..I’m late” “Late?” he looked confused as he grabbed a white T-shirt from the suitcase and placed it over his head, covering his body “Late for what? Shopping?”

“Nooo..late as in..you know late” “Am I suppose to read your mind…’cause I don’t have a clue what you're talking about” A sarcastic chuckle escaped his lips.

“My period’s late” I didn’t know how he was going to react. Was he going to leave, tell me to leave..was he going to be angry at me?

“Okaaay..and?”

“Wha’ do you mean..and?...I could be pregnant”

“Yeah I know” he said calmly and continued to tie a black bandana around his head. If I wasn’t so stressed I probably would have made a comment about how much I loved this look on him and how hot he looked.

“You know..so..so..w-why are you so calm?” “’cause believe it or not…I’ve thought about having a family with you” Any other time this would have made my heart melt, but right now all I could think about was being on a world tour and possibly carrying a baby inside of me.

“Well yeah…It’s obviously crossed my mind..but not during a world tour and at nineteen”

He walked over to me and grasped my hands in his and lifted them so they were around his neck and placed his hands on my hips “Okay..what’s going to happen is…I’m going to go to rehearsals and you’re going to go shopping..” “But” I interrupted. “Uh..let me finish…you’re going to go shopping and have a lovely time…if you can do it without being seen then buy some tests and we’ll take them together later” “I-if they..you know..say I’m pregnant…will you be angry?” “Of course fucking not…can I tell you something?” “Yeah” “I’m hoping that you are” he admitted. “Really?” “Yeah…I love you so much…and…and imagine a mini you and me”. He leaned down and captured my lips with his own. I began to worry about how he would react if the tests were in fact negative. “I love you too…wh-what if it’s negative?” He chuckled “Does that head of yours ever stop worrying?” I shook my head no “If it’s negative then…It’s just not the right time and we carry on just us two..until we think the time is right..yeah?” “I don’t know what I did to ever deserve you” I placed a big peck on his lips making his lips turn up into a smile. “Right..I’ve got to go before I’m late” he patted my bum lightly “I’ll see you later at the stadium…go and enjoy your day baby” Leaving the hotel room, but not before leaving a peck on my forehead.

---

We spent the whole afternoon exploring New York, eating lunch outside and chatting about all thing’s girls, we looked in every shop we passed, and Lottie took full advantage of me saying she could have anything she wanted in the MAC shop and I would buy it for her birthday. What are big sisters for, ey? What took me by surprise was that I didn’t even think about my missed period or the conversation Harry and I had all afternoon until we passed a small pharmacy. I looked around to make sure no fans were following us and explained to the girls that I needed to pick up some more toiletries as you had run out, and they said they would wait for you by the coffee shop next door, so we could travel to the stadium together. I picked up the box with ‘ClearBlue’ written boldly on the front and took it to the counter to pay for it, swiping my card and then leaving before anyone noticed me.

Once we got to the stadium, I made it my mission to find Harry. After looking in the obvious places, the kitchen, backstage, bathroom, and even the little cleaning room at the end of the corridor, still my eyes couldn’t find him. I made my way back to the boys' dressing room and as I turn the corner, my eyes find him. “I’ve been lookin’ for you” we both say together, making each other laugh.

“You okay?...Did you get them?” Harry asked as he looked around making sure nobody was listening. “Yeah…shall we go and take them now…you know..to get it over with” Harry took my hand in his and intertwined our fingers as we walked down the long hallway towards the bathroom. As Harry opened the door for us, we both turned when we heard an Irish accent “Wheeey! Don’t let Louis catch you both going in there” he teased us with a chuckle.

“Piss off Niall” Harry jokingly shouted back at him, whilst I rolled my eyes at their childishness. Once Harry locked the door behind us, I got the box out of the bag and began to open the box as I went to pull the test out, I felt a pair of arms sneak around my waist and a voice in my ear “You okay?” “Yeah..just a bit nervous”. Harry placed his lips behind my ear and let his linger there for a moment before he spoke.

“Heey..it’s all going to be okay..remember what we said this morning”

I left his embrace and removed the lid from the test as I walked towards the toilet. I followed the instructions and pee’d on the part at the end of the stick and then placed the lid back on before laying it down on the counter in front of us. Those 5 minutes of waiting felt like years, we were silent for the whole time just waiting to see if our life was about to change. Harry’s timer he set on his phone startled us. “Do you want us to..look together?” I heard Harry’s voice for the first time in minutes. “C-can you look…I’m too scared” “Okay” Harry tried to hide the shakiness of his hand as he reached for the plastic sitting on the counter that held our answers but I could see the slight shake of his fingers as they held the test. I saw some sadness in his eyes and I already knew. “It’s negative”. I didn’t know what to say but Harry broke the silence as he pulled me into his arms and held me to his chest “But that’s okay isn’t it…means we can try again when we feel ready”. “Yeah..I guess..” “No..c’mon..we’re not going to be sad..let’s make this into a positive..means we can do lots of baby-making practice before the time is right” Harry joked, making you laugh against his chest. “I suppose some practice wouldn’t hurt” “C’mon let's get back, before Niall stirs some shit with Louis about us sneaking off to the toilet for a quickie”

As we walked back to the dressing room with our hands intertwined,  where everyone was spread out sitting and chatting. Again, the Irish accent was heard “That was quick”, confusing everyone else with his words to which Harry playfully pushed him off the arm of the chair he was sitting on and muttered ‘Don’t be jealous Horan’. And as I watched on, I was reminded that a baby was not ready for this type of chaos.

Tag List: (let me know if you would like to be added) @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @harrys-flower @platinumbarbie143 @frickin-bats

[collecting-stories]

Not in Chronological Order ch. 5 - Orange Magic

setting: Central Park// Saturday morning

summary: Reader and Sonny are watching his niece's softball game on Saturday morning and he is interrupted by a series of work calls.

A/N: This takes place 13 months into their relationship. Also, I mentioned on the series page that I've taken some creative liberties with Sonny's nieces and nephews, which still stands. I'm giving his sister Teresa three kids, including a daughter named Sofia.

<- Not in Chronological Order Masterlist | Lie Like This ->

...divider by @saradika

“Thought ya weren’t gonna make it,” Sonny called his tone light and teasing. It was still cold for the middle of March and he had his Fordham hoodie on, hands in his front pocket though he took them out as you approached, pulling you into a hug. You were careful of the coffees in your hands as you wrapped your arms around his waist, pressing your face against the collar of his hoodie and kissing the side of his jaw. 

Once you’d extricated yourself from his embrace and handed him one of the coffees you said, “And miss a softball game for six year olds?” You asked, “doesn’t sound like me.”

“Yeah, alright, I don’t appreciate the snark,” he joked. 

Dating Sonny had just been dating Sonny until about three months into the relationship when he decided he’d waited long enough to introduce you to his family. Now, over a year into your relationship, you felt like you were dating the entire Carisi clan. Dates turned into family parties or Sunday night dinner or watching his nieces and nephew play sports early on Saturday mornings and it all felt bizarrely more domestic than any of your previous relationships. Maybe that was simply because the last time you had a serious boyfriend was ten years ago when you were twenty. 

Today you’d gotten yourself out of bed early and taken the subway into Manhattan to see Teresa’s youngest daughter’s softball game. You’d been invited by Teresa before Sonny could even remember the date. She’d texted an entire schedule for each of her three children’s sports and school activities to you at the beginning of their school year when you’d only been dating Sonny for six and a half months. 

“Just FYI,” you mentioned, shifting your coffee to balance between the crook of your arm and your body so you could clap as Sofia came up to bat, “I’m mad at you.”

Sonny’s eyebrows furrowed, looking at you with a mix of concern and confusion, trying to wrack his brain for a reason that you would be upset with him. Between both of your busy schedules you’d managed to keep any dates that you scheduled and he’d been on time to every apartment tour for the last two weeks. 

“What? Why?” He finally asked, unable to think of any particular reason you had for being mad at him. 

You turned your face toward him, that sly smile creeping over your features, causing him to realize that you’d been teasing him. “Because you didn’t tell me about that Italian place on Locust.”

“Near my parent’s house?” He asked, not concerned anymore but twice as confused. The two of you had been over the bridge almost every week for Sunday dinner but he couldn’t think of another reason for you to trek to Staten Island, at least without him. 

“Yeah, I went last night with your mom." 

"You went to dinner with my ma?” Sonny was more than positive that you hadn’t mentioned a Friday date night with his mom at any point during the week. 

“She said she wanted to take me to dinner for my birthday, just the two of us,” you shrugged. 

“Ya went to dinner with my ma?”

“Yes. She texted me like, two weeks ago, and asked if I wanted to have dinner,” you explained, “anyway…the point is, why didn’t you ever take me there? The food is so good!" 

"I can’t believe you went to dinner with my ma and didn’t even tell me about it,” he replied, “I can’t believe she’s texting you.”

“Jealous?” You joked, bumping his hip with yours. “Where’s Teresa anyway?”

“Paul’s got the kids this weekend,” Sonny replied, nodding his head in the direction of the bleachers on the other side of the diamond where his ex-brother-in-law sat with two small children. 

“Oh fun,” you muttered. Teresa had introduced you to Paul only once but that had been more than enough for you to get a measure on him. 

“So, what did you and my ma talk about?” Sonny asked, looking at you over the rim of his disposable cup as he took a sip. 

“Well, she spent a good half of the time asking me when I was planning on making her a grandmother again,” you replied, “although, at least your mom has more of a filter than you do." 

Sonny had ungracefully blurted out, halfway through dinner on your second date, that he wanted to have kids someday and he was looking for a serious relationship. As if two dates in a week was enough to know whether you were going to devote the rest of your life to him. You were planning on it, in fact, though you had avoided saying so two dates in. 

"What’s that supposed to mean?” He asked, looking incredulous at the accusation. 

Before you could answer, his cellphone went off and Sonny stepped away from you to answer it, already falling into ADA mode. You turned your own attention back to the game, scanning the game to see where Sofia was and finding her in the dug out, waiting for her turn to bat again. 

“…I can email it to ya first thing tomorrow morning. I’m not in the office right now,” Sonny said, looking back toward the Little League diamond, his gaze softening as he watched you clap for his niece. “Yeah, yeah…I’ll talk to ya later, alright, bye Liv.”

Sonny made it over to you after hanging up, wrapping his arms around your waist from behind and kissing your cheek. 

“Do you need to go?” You asked, turning your head to meet his eyes. 

“Nah, just some paperwork. Nothing I can’t get in the morning,” he replied. 

“Are you sure?” You knew you sounded surprised as he looked over at you, the beginnings of an apology already forming on his tongue.

“Yeah, ya just got here and we’re supposed to look at that apartment after lunch.”

“I know,” you turned back to the game, “but if you have to-”

“I don’t." 

A year and a month into dating Sonny, you knew that his job was more than important. It was demanding on a good day and soul-draining otherwise. The work he did was necessary and hard and you understood. Yours wasn’t an easy job either, though you had more structured hours than Sonny sometimes got. Both of you had brought up jobs and relationship expectations somewhere around the three month mark but neither of you had really gotten anywhere solid and the discussion had been shelved for later. For further down the road when things were more serious. 

Talking babies with Serafina Carisi and apartment shopping seemed like the time to unshelf that conversation but neither of you really wanted to. 

"So, dinner with my ma?” Sonny asked, trying to get back whatever you’d had before Sonny had answered the phone.

“Oh yeah, we covered all the topics. Jobs, children, future wedding, why you haven’t proposed yet,” you laughed at Sonny’s expression, “her question, not mine.”

“She’s something else,” he muttered, pressing his face into your neck. 

You reached up with one hand to pat the top of his head, running your fingers through the soft, salt and pepper, waves. No work meant no hair gel. “She told me that we should move to Staten Island so when we have kids she can babysit and we don’t have to worry about work or daycare.”

“We just have to worry about commuting back into Manhattan?” Sonny asked, slightly muffled by your sweatshirt. You could feel his mouth against your neck as he spoke, breath warm in the cold morning air. 

“What, you don’t wanna sit in hours of traffic every day?”

“Dream come true,” he hummed. 

Sonny’s phone rang once more and he groaned against your neck, giving you a gentle squeeze before he pulled away. You heard Liv’s name leave his lips as he stepped further away from you and the game. Serafina had referred to the relationship as a test of patience. You wouldn’t put all the blame for busy schedules on Sonny though, there were plenty of dates that you had interrupted with a phone call or times when you’d brought work to his house when you were supposed to be having dinner together. 

“Are you sure you don’t need to go in?” you asked when he made his way over to you again.

“No,” he pocketed his phone, “sorry.”

“No you aren’t,” you laughed, stepping away to throw out your empty coffee. When you came back over he was frowning. “What?”

“I am-”

“I didn’t mean it like that,” you sighed, wrapping your arms around his waist and tucking yourself into his side. He slung an arm around your shoulders instinctively. “I just meant, I’m not mad that you have to work when you’re off the clock. You know I get it, I just…wish you wouldn’t apologize. It gives me false hope that maybe next time you won’t go into the office or answer the phone and I know you won’t.”

“It’s just, the case we’re working on-” Sonny started to explain.

“Dominick,” you huffed, cutting him off, “I literally just gave you an out, you don’t have to explain. I’m not mad.”

“You seem a little mad.”

“Well…” You turned into Sonny more, fiddling with ties on his hoodie for a moment before meeting his eyes, “it’s 10am on a Saturday and I’m watching your niece play softball and thinking that maybe your mom wasn’t so crazy for asking me about kids cause I could totally rock being a ‘soccer mom’ someday and then I just spiral further into my head like…will Sonny answer the phone when our future children with Italian names are running around playing baseball and then I realize I’m being totally irrational because half the time I’m the one on the phone and then-”

“Hey,” Sonny cut you off this time, pulling you closer to hug you, kissing the side of your head, “we both have crazy jobs and we knew that getting into this and I know you are more than understanding about my schedule but that doesn’t mean I’m not sorry that I gotta answer the phone when I’m with you." 

"I know,” you replied, “I just feel like, the interruptions happen whether you make excuses for them or not…I just don’t want us to be those people that like, make the excuses. I don’t wanna lie and say that next time I won’t pick up a second shift and I don’t want you to say that you won’t stay late at the office cause then we’re just lying to each other.”

Sonny looked contemplative as he considered what you had said to him. Finally, he nodded, “I agree…I just feel guilty sometimes hassling you with interruptions when we’re supposed to be off.”

“I don’t think this is a compromise we can figure out over the course of one conversation,” you replied. A Little League baseball game probably wasn’t the best place to be hashing out your feelings as it was but there was certainly no easy end or compromise to the situation at hand. Down the road, you imagined, it would have to evolve into other conversations too, more nuanced, about family instead of just you and Sonny. “But if you do have to go in to the office…”

“Just for like an hour tops, I promise we’ll make the open house." 

"We better,” you tried to sound threatening but it was hard to do when you were smiling, “cause I showed Serafina the places we were looking and it’s the only one she likes.”

“She’s not living in it,” Sonny pointed out.

“Yeah but she said it’s got three bedrooms so that’s at least two grandkids.”

“With Italian names,” he teased.

“Depends,” you replied, detangling yourself from Sonny as his niece ran over to say hello. 

“On what?” He asked, though he was looking at Sofia and waving, a massive smile on his face.

“I’ll tell you when little ears aren’t around,” you joked. 

Sofia made impact with his legs before he could answer you and Sonny lifted her up, settling her against his hip despite her being six and all limbs, happily kicking him as he hugged her. She launched into a recounting of the game, as if neither of you had been there and seen most of it. You couldn’t help thinking that maybe Serafina was right when she told you that a year and a month was not too short a time to already be thinking about kids of your own. Interruptions be damned, you’d spend the rest of your life with Sonny if you were given the opportunity.

[galatially]

❝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠❞

𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 / 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 / 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 — 𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐨𝐧 x 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤!𝐫&𝐛 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫!𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫

𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 — through rain or through shine, our love transcends; dick surprises you on tour 

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 — 1.9K

𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 — 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐒 𝐃𝐍𝐈, 𝟏𝟖+, strong language, mostly fluff MOSTLY, friends to lovers, smidge of jealous!dick, heavy makeup session,

𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 — i might go back and change the ending later but for now, enjoy!

as always, lovely banners and dividers by @firefly-graphics​ 

“How are y’all feeling tonight?”

The crowd erupted into raucous applause and screams. All of their love, all of their devotion, you felt it in the air. Like electricity running along your skin. 

Ever since you were a little girl, you wanted to sing. You sang in the church and school choirs, took vocal lessons, and taught yourself to play the piano, guitar, and the drums. By the time you were in college, you took a few music production classes and had started up a YouTube channel. 

It took almost three years before your channel got any traction but you were no stranger to hard work. By the fourth year anniversary of your channel, your songs had been used in two major television shows and you were nominated for three Grammys. 

But you’d be nowhere without your fans. You could remember when you went on your first headlining tour with Paloma Wagner, a former Gothamite that you had posters of on your childhood bedroom wall, and you’d spent all night at your merch table talking to the kids and signing autographs. All of your hard work staring back at you, in the eyes of people who believed in you just as much as you believed in yourself. 

You brought the mic back up to your lips, a hand on your chest. “I cannot thank y’all enough for supporting me and my dreams these past four years. From sitting in my room making videos to playing small local shows to y’all selling out stadiums.” 

“We love you!”

“Now, I know that this is the last show,” the crowd groaned and you smiled, “but this is my home sweet home of Metropolis! How about we play an oldie? The song that started it all, yeah?”

The crowd roared again and you smiled. Your band started playing behind you. “This song is called, ‘Love Letters’.”

“Great show tonight, y’all.”

“Did you want to celebrate with us?” one of your dancers, Alisha, asked.

Another dancer, Mila, came up behind you, smirking. “Nah, she’s probably going to wait for that boyfriend of hers to call.”

“Bruce Wayne’s kid, right?”

You rolled your eyes. “He’s not my boyfriend. He’s barely a friend.”

Mila snorted. “Didn’t he leave you that bouquet of tiger lilies a few weeks ago in Texas?” 

Alisha’s eyes widened. “That was him?”

You smirked at them through the reflection of the glass. “Didn’t y’all want to go out with the others? They’re probably halfway to the parking garage by now.”

“Tell your boyfriend that we say hello, at least.” You playfully waved them off and bid them goodbye. Mila and Alisha made kissy noises as they left your dressing room. 

You turned back to your mirror, your smile still on your lips. As you took off your makeup, your mind dwelled on the aforementioned billionaire’s son. He was far from your boyfriend but a little more than a friend. You can’t really recall how you met Dick other than the fact that he appeared almost instantly in a coffeeshop in a Gotham during one of your first visits. You sat and talked at a window facing table for three hours before he had to get back to work. Then, a few weeks later, he found you on Instagram and you started talking more frequently. 

That was two years ago now. 

While touring has limited how much you got to visit Gotham, you still kept in contact through Instagram and Snapchat. Dick even congratulated you on finishing your newest album a few days ago. 

You wondered if he listened to your music at all. If he would be able to decipher which songs were about him, hear the words that always seemed to get stuck in your throat when he was near. 

A sharp knock came up on your door. 

“Come in.”

Your manager, Lawrence, poked his head in. “You almost ready? The car’s waiting outside.”

“Let me just grab my bags and change really quick.” 

He nodded and ducked back out of the room. As you packed up the last of your makeup and threw your hoodie on, your phone chimed with a text.

Great job on the sold out tour ;) ;)

You were flipping through titles on Netflix when you heard the balcony doors open. You grabbed the lamp from the bedside table and tiptoed towards the sound, your cellphone in hand. As you got closer, you saw the figure, half-hidden behind the curtains. You raised the lamp higher and lunged. 

Everything happened so fast; hands went to your wrist and torso, holding you against them, and you were crowded up against the wall. Bright blue eyes stared back into yours. 

“Hey, sweetness.”

“Dick!” You pouted up at him. “You scared the shit out of me!”

“‘M sorry. Wanted to surprise you.” The corners of his mouth lifted. “Heard the show was a hit.”

You smiled. “My manager said that tonight’s show was the best show of the tour. Hometown heroes and all that.”

Dick pressed a kiss to your forehead. “That’s my girl.”

Your lips cut into the biggest smile. “How’s your family doing? I thought I saw Jason in Metropolis for some reason but forgot to text you about it.”

Something passed in his eyes before another smile came upon his lips. “Really? I’ll have to text him later. He’s been avoiding me the past few weeks.”

You frowned. “We were texting last night and he didn’t say anything.”

“Since when do you and Jason text?” 

A small part of your brain thought that his words sounded sharper than norma but you shook it off, lifting your shoulder as best you could. “He was in Metropolis a few months ago during one of my press tours, we got to talking, and exchanged numbers. We have a streak going on TikTok at the moment.”

Dick pouted. “You follow each other on TikTok? You don’t follow me on TikTok!”

“Do you want me to follow you on TikTok, Ricky?” you teased, chuckling. 

He cleared his throat, hugging you closer. “‘M just saying that it’s odd that you’re closer to my brother when I’m your best friend.”

Your smile fell some. “Why can’t I be both?”

“No offense, babe, but I’ve had to share most of my life with my siblings. I want to keep you to myself as long as I can.”

For a moment, you could pretend that the words were a heavy as you wanted them to be. That this would be the catalyst to one of the greatest love story ever to be told. But you knew better.

“So…we’ve been standing here for, like, ten minutes and I’m starving.” 

You playfully rolled your eyes. “You’re as bad as Jay is, Jesus.” He pinched your side and you swatted at him. “I’m just saying what Alfred is too polite to say! Don’t pinch me!”

His laugh rumbled through you as he led you back to the bedroom. 

“The Gotham City Opera House was one of my favorites to perform at.”

Dick was sat on the hotel floor, four pizza boxes beside him as he looked up at you on the bed. It reminded you of the first few months of meeting each other; staying up late to answer FaceTimes, talking on the phone for hours. You used to be damn near glued to your phone awaiting texts from him. 

It was insultingly easy to fall in love with Dick Grayson. 

“Did you go full orchestra like you wanted?”

Your eyes widened. “You remember that?”

He snorted. “Of course I do! You’ve been practically dreaming about singing with an orchestra ever since you told me about that concert you saw in Rome.” He smiled warmly. “You wouldn’t shut up about it for months. Alfred got you that vinyl recording of Carmen, remember?”

You nodded. “I still listen to it every once in a while. I have to remember to thank him again.”

“Speaking of music,” he leaned up against the edge of the bed, his forearm against your bare knees,”you should make me a playlist.” The last time you made me one was, what, eight months ago?”

“Something like that,” you offered. “What’s your vibe these days? More Tamaranian folk songs? Ooh! Maybe shoe-gaze since you live in Bludhaven now and want to get grungy?”

Dick wrinkled his nose. “Since when did you start listening to shoegaze?”

You lifted a shoulder. “Jay’s been getting me into Cocteau Twins and Pale Saints lately.”

“First TikTok streaks, now you guys are sharing playlists?”

Your brows pulled down at his tone. “Why are you being so weird about me and Jason hanging out right now?”

“You’ve been talking about him all night! If you wanted Jason so bad, why didn’t you text him?” You sucked in a sharp breath. “Shit. Sweetness, I’m —”

“I’m allowed other friends, Dick. I’m sorry that it’s your brother but you don’t get to judge me for that. We like the same music and movies and we just clicked.” You sat up on your legs, your brown eyes hard. “I don’t get upset when you talk about Barbara and I didn’t get upset when you were dating Kory and constantly telling me how beautiful and smart and kind and amazing she was. So why do you get to shame me for sharing some things about Jason?”

“I’m not shaming you,” he argued. “I just — you’re not attracted to him, are you?”

An exhale, or maybe it was a scoff, left your mouth. “You’re not serious.”

He moved to his feet, suddenly reminding you just how big Richard Grayson was; big, broad shoulders, large  hands moving to rest beside both of your thighs., effectively caging you in agains his strong, broad chest. His blue eyes that normally regarded you with warm were now leveling you with a gaze alien to his features.

Desperation. 

“Tell me.”

Your heart was pounding, blood rushing in your ears. Your face was burning hot. He was so close, his pants of breath fanning against your face. 

“Please, sweetness,” he rasped, “I need you to tell me that you have feelings for my brother. Because if you don’t, I’m going to kiss you and I can’t come back from that. Not with you.”

Dreaming. You had to be dreaming. 

“I don’t have feelings for your brother.” You let out a surprised squeal as your back hit the mattress, Dick’s lips against yours. He kissed you hard and slow, as if he were committing the taste of you to memory. He moved a thigh between your leg and you sucked in a breath. One of his large hands moved to cup your breast. 

“Dick, hold on.” You gripped his wrist, your chest rising and falling in heavy pants. “Just… give me a second.”

He helped sit you up, his hands hovering instead of touching you. “I’m sorry.”

“I just want to be clear that this,” you motioned between the two of you, “isn’t just some flash in the pan and you didn’t just kiss me out of some weird territorial shit with your brother.”

“I can assure you that I didn’t kiss you out of spite to Jason,” he said, a half smile on his lips. 

“So you like me. Romantically.”

“I do.”

Your face warmed. “Good. Because I like you, too.”

Dick gave you a brilliant smile. “Good.”

𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 — like, yeah, jason todd is my bestest boy but dick and i are ✨synonyms✨ you know?

[kinghijinx22]

Top 5 queer ships from video games

HELLO my fellow queers! Just in time for the end of Pride Month I have decided to write about my top 5 queer canon ships from video games because I thought it would be a cool thing to do for the occasion, because I play the video games and am obviously very queer myself. This is also sort of a post to go along with the top 5 pansexual characters that I did last year as well. So to begin our list at number 5-

5. Alex Chen and Steph Gingrich, Chengrich from Life is Strange True Colors- Starting off with a ship not from a game I've played myself but I've seen plenty of lets plays of which is something I can say about the whole Life is Strange series, Alex Chen and Steph Gingrich from True Colors are a couple of dorky sapphics with a really cute relationship. The best in Life is Strange in my opinion, while the series has always been known for having good queer representation, I personally was not as impressed as others with the vagueness and burying of gays that LiS 1 and Before the Storm did, and while LiS 2 is better with Sean and Finn in it's explicitness, they make Finn such an asshole. Canon bisexual protagonist Alex Chen of True Colors is the most likeable protagonist in the series in my opinion, and Steph Gingrich who is lesbian, is easily the best love interest. Better then Ryan from the same game in my opinion, Alex and Steph's relationship is well developed throughout the game and the 2 of them have some really heart warming moments, especially that kiss when Alex goes upstairs to see Steph during that town event. Alex seeing the blue emotions around Steph before they kiss because she's worried about Alex not kissing her, and then she does and they explode with the yellow light of happiness. And then in the endings, Steph either settles down with Alex or Alex who is also a musician joins Steph's band and they go on tour together which is very romantic as well. Best LiS couple easy for me.

4. Bayonetta and Jeanne, BayoJeanne from Bayonetta- So now we jump into games that I have played myself with BayoJeanne from Bayonetta, specifically their relationship from Bayonetta 1 and 2 because Bayonetta 3 fucked it to ship Bayo with that loser Luka instead. Bayonetta and Jeanne though were badass power couple of witches in the first 2 game. Childhood friends, to lovers, to rivals, to lovers again, what a wild ride for a relationship to go through as well but they end up being so sweet together. To explain, in Bayonetta 1 Bayo has lost her memories and Jeanne is brainwashed by Bayo's evil sage father Balder so Jeanne as another powerful witch is Bayo's rival throughout the game and it is heartbreaking, fighting your lover who you don't even remember. They both get their memories back by the end of the game though, and Jeanne rescues her girlfriend Bayo from the goddess Jubileus so she can punch her into the sun. Bayonetta 1 has some strong BayoJeanne moments but Bayonetta 2 goes all in with their relationship, with Bayo going on a romantic rescue mission to save her girlfriend from the demon Alarune, journeying through literal heaven and hell to do so. That file that you can pick up in Bayonetta 2 that talks about someone going through hell to find their lover, and then that scene where Bayo wakes up Jeanne after rescuing her from Alarune is great. "What do you need a wake up kiss or something?" referencing some developer art that shows their homelife, where Bayo has to wake up Jeanne for work. Love this badass witchy power couple, the sapphic aunts who always spoil the nephews with Christmas gifts.

3. Jala and Tyler, Jyler? from Thirsty Suitors- who I don't believe have an actual ship name until I just made one up because Thirsty Suitors is so underrated that it's fandom is almost nonexistent? Seriously this game is really good and I wish Tumblr had more fan art for it, especially Jala and Tyler fan art because they very quickly have become one of my all time favorite couples in anything. The most recent addition to this list for me, I only just played Thirsty Suitors for Pride Month and while protagonist and biggest bisexual disaster I've even seen Jala has 7 exes in total, 6 of which you need to confront throughout the game, Tyler has been the most important person in Jala's life. Her childhood friend who she has been on and off with romantically, but the girl who was always by her side and who she would always come back to. I also want to say that, it's mentioned that Jala was also by Tyler's side and helped her while she was transitioning which is really beautiful and I think it's cool that a trans girl is the main love interest of this story. Jala and Tyler have a very messy but special relationship, and after Jala is able to reconcile with Tyler after how much she had let her down in the past, it's implied that they do end up back together and in a fully committed relationship by the end of the story through some art depicting their future together which is good. I just need to mention that Thirsty Suitors is a super charming and delightfully queer game that handles it's characters and themes very well and I highly recommend it. It's a game that celebrates queerness while also allowing it's characters to be heavily flawed and their relationships very messy, as seen with even Jala and Tyler.

2. Susie and Noelle, Suselle from Deltarune- Toby Fox has been a very supportive queer ally and with Undertale and Deltrune, his games have plenty of great queer representation. But while Undyne and Alphys from Undertale are ok, I honestly don't really like Alphys specifically and personally think Susie and Noelle from Deltarune are the much superior sapphic ship. Because both Susie and Noelle are both great characters and absolute cuties who deserve to be happy together! A super adorable story of blossoming young love and self discovery, dorky lesbian deer girl Noelle is head over hooves in love with the cool dinosaur girl from her school Susie. And while Susie does start off as a bully in chapter 1, it becomes clear that she has a lot of her own personal stuff that she's working through that is heavily implied to be from her home life but by the end of chapter 1 she makes some good friends in Kris, Ralsei and Lancer who actually understand her and she grows as a person. While she doesn't really interact Noelle with chapter 1, you do find out as Kris that Noelle has feelings for Susie when she asks them for more information on her. And it's chapter 2 that REALLY develops Susie and Noelle's relationship and gives them a lot of cute moments together, because Noelle actually joins Susie and Kris in going to the Dark World on their adventures this time. And through chapter 2, Susie and Noelle's relationship is developed incredibly well with all of Noelle's adorable blushing and freaking out around the girl that she loves, until the beautiful scene where Susie gets to rescue Noelle from being captured by Queen and they escape on a heart covered Ferris wheel of all things which gives them an incredibly sweet moment together that always makes me cry. Just seeing them these adorable young queer girls being awkward and falling in love for the first time is just so adorable and funny in the best way. And then afterwards, the thing that actually gives Noelle her courage to stand up to Queen is saving the love of her life Susie! AAAAAH I LOVE THEM AND THEY ARE PERFECT FOR EACHOTHER!!!! The only caveat is that Deltarune isn't finished yet and Susie and Noelle technically aren't together yet? But it's very obvious that their relationship is something that is being built towards and I am very excited to see how it develops in future chapters, what we've gotten already has been great though and has given us so many cute moments for Suselle.

Gregg and Angus, Grangus from Night in the Woods- The only MLM ship on this list because there is a distressing lack of MLM relationships in video games compared to there actually being a decent amount of WLW, especially with main characters. But Gregg and Angus are my overall favorite romantic relationship in all of video games. Night in the Woods is another game with some great queer representation, including it's main character Mae who is canonically pansexual which delighted me to find out as someone who is pan and she made it to the top of my Pan characters list from last year. But she doesn't get much of a romance besides meeting a girl that she has feelings for at a party that doesn't lead to much. Her best friend Gregg and his boyfriend Angus though, are also both main characters and their relationship actually gets a lot attention and development and it's handled beautifully. Their experiences accurately represent what it's like living as an openly gay couple in a small and not so understanding small town. Especially as they were the only queer people living there while Mae was away at college. A small town that also doesn't really have much going on, and they both want to move away where they can live a happy life together in a town where they will be supported and accepted more, where they can maybe meet other queer friends. It's an incredibly sweet and relatable story, and the 2 boys work their butts off at their jobs to make their dream of living that life together a reality. Which is why Mae's coming back home and bringing out the chaotic side of her best friend Gregg does bring some tension to their relationship, but she eventually realizes her mistakes and learns that she has to let them go. Gregg and Angus's relationship becomes even more sweet when you learn more about how they met, how Angus had a horrible upbringing with violently homophobic parents who didn't accept him, but then Gregg came into his life and saved him. And then also that scene where Mae talks to Gregg and he's worried that he isn't good enough for his boyfriend and Mae has to give him and uplifting talk. They just mean so much to eachother and they really bring the best out of eachother as well, with Gregg helping his shy boyfriend to come out of his shell a bit more, and Angus helping reel in his hyperactive boyfriend from getting a bit too wild. Gregg and Angus are so sweet and supportive of eachother, a beautifully written queer couple and my favorite ship from any video game.

But anyway, I hope all my fellow queers had a safe and happy Pride Month! And also that you enjoyed reading my list, I would recommend all the games that these ships are from to people. Thank you for reading and remember to stay proud of who you are all year round because no matter your sexuality, gender, what pronouns you go by, whether your closeted or not, you deserve all the love and respect and fuck any bigot who thinks they can tell you otherwise.

[ayameric]

Smithereens | L. Williamson

“Are you sure about this?” You asked for what felt the thousandth time today.

Leah just smiled as she let out a small huff.

“Yes, I’ve told you a dozen times.”

The pair of you were sat in your London apartment, sitting on the sofa watching whatever was on the TV when you fell into conversation out of sheer boredom. The topics began with you asking your girlfriend about how her training went, and she told you all about the antics the Arsenal women got up to that day. You chuckled at Leah’s retelling of events, often knowing she wasn’t exaggerating when it came to some of the stuff that actually happened.

But then the conversation flowed to you, the defender asking about your day. Sighing, you told her you were nervous for your upcoming tour. After having just released your third album a while ago, it had already been a hit and of course with that, meant a tour was bound to happen. Now the time was finally here where you would be playing a sold-out O2 in London to an insane number of people. This was easily the biggest night of your life so far, and the most anxiety inducing. Fame for the pair of you just seemed to grow and grow over the past couple of years, which meant the microscope was placed awfully close on your relationship. People don’t realise, but that kind of pressure has a tendency to cause cracks in a relationship.

“Seriously? Because I can totally pull out-“ Continuing your rambling, Leah shifted her body on the furniture to fully face you and slap her hand over your mouth.

“You done?” She quirked a brow and you nodded, signalling for her to remove her hand before you undoubtedly did something gross and licked it. “I mean it, Y/N. You won’t back out because it isn’t a big deal. It’s a bunch of songs you wrote during a bad time and people love them! You can’t disappoint them and not go out there to give them their money’s worth.”

Sinking into the sofa a little more, you shifted your gaze to look out of the window. Of course, Leah had told you she didn’t mind you singing songs you wrote during your breakup, but it was tough to believe it. The last thing you wanted to do was upset her, and you had already done that enough before.

“I know, but sometimes there’s more to this than just what other people think.” You began. “I promised you that I would never prioritise anything over our relationship again, and I don’t want me bringing up the past to ruin things.”

You finally turned to look at the blonde who had obviously been watching you the whole time. Her eyes scanned over your face before finally catching your gaze.

“This isn’t bringing up the past. You got your feelings out, and turned it into something amazing.” Leah told you, her hand reaching out and grabbing your own. Which was a nice change from slapping you over the mouth to shut you up. “I’m not gonna change the way I feel for you because you’re out performing songs you wrote during our breakup. Hell, I’ve heard them a dozen times before!”

“But you cried when you did!” You answered back, a playful lilt to your tone, which caused Leah to crack a smile. She closed her eyes and shook her head slightly.

“Yeah because you wrote a fucking album about me, Y/N. An incredibly beautiful one at that.”

“But it was about our breakup.”

“It’s not like you called me a bitch or slagged me off. Did you forget what you wrote?” Leah quizzed, her tone now a lot more quiet and serious as she asked you that last question.

You fell silent for a brief moment, remembering the months you spent alone, without the love of your life. It was one of the hardest things you’ve ever been through, knowing that she wasn’t here anymore and there was a good chance she never would be. So you did what you do best, and wrote it all down straight from the heart. Initially you had no intentions of ever doing anything with those songs, since there was only a few and it was so personal, but the more you thought about it, and the more you realised the likelihood was that Leah had moved on; that maybe you should release the songs as an album. This is what songwriters were supposed to do, write something real people could relate to, and nothing is more relatable than heartbreak. Sure, it makes up 90% of the songs on the radio, but this was way more personal than that.

There had always been speculation about your relationship with Leah. About how you guys met, whether it was strictly platonic or not, but neither of you ever confirmed it because you never felt like you needed to. You weren’t exactly hiding, but you weren’t broadcasting it either. But with Leah’s win at the Euro’s and your success as a music artist, people were starting to get too involved with your relationship.

You and Leah had been together for two years until the breakup, which happened weeks after England’s European win, and it tore you up inside. Still in contact with a few of your mutual friends, like Katie McCabe, who had informed you completely by accident that Leah had moved on. The news blew your heart to smithereens, but you couldn’t find it in yourself to be angry. You gave up on that relationship because you were afraid it would be too difficult to maintain, since both of your jobs took you to opposite sides of the world. Leah didn’t exactly fight for you either, but it was safe to say you were the one to put the final nail in the coffin of your romance.

Months and months with nothing from you, fans began to speculate on the breakup, but nothing could be confirmed. Truth was you had basically shut yourself off from the outside world and moved to Spain. You spent your time writing, and the outcome was ‘Smithereens’. The rather vague yet on the nose title felt right, and upon reflection and some self-healing, you had presented it to your record label and it was ready to release.

Until one night you got a text from a number you deleted.

I miss you.

Read 11:34PM

The phone practically fell from your hands. All of the feelings you thought you had overcome and healed from came flooding back like a tsunami. It changed everything. But you and Leah talked things out, with the English defender revealing that she had entered a relationship not long after the two of you had broken up, but it never felt right. So, Leah took a stab in the dark, and texted you and she still claims to this day it was the best decision she ever made. You both promised eachother it would be different this time around, that there wouldn’t be anything above your relationship, and you would work harder to maintain it. However, there was one small cog in the works that threatened to rip the rug out from underneath your feet.

The album.

In a frenzy in your Spanish home one night, you revealed what you had written and that the label planned to release it next week. You were on the verge of tears, thinking Leah would hate you. Thinking that you were trying to profit off the misfortune that befell your relationship. But instead, she calmly asked to listen to it, and with some convincing, you let her.  

In your home studio, you let the songs play out. Anxiously sitting in the corner, studying her every movement and facial expression as she listened to the melodies, your leg bounced restlessly, praying to whatever higher power that she wouldn’t storm out.

But she didn’t. In fact, she listened to the whole thing without a single word. As the last beats of the final song played out, you got up and turned the system off as Leah finally looked at you. Her eyes glistened as tears began to pool in her eyes. Your instincts kicked in and you rushed over to hold her, letting her emotions out on your shoulder as you held her tightly. Finally pulling away, she wiped her eyes with the sleeve of her hoodie and spoke:

“I’m so sorry I made you feel this way.” Her voice cracked, and you frowned, shaking your head.

“No, no. You have nothing to apologise for. At all.” You told her sternly, chasing eye contact with her before you got it, finally locking her gaze. “This was my fault. I didn’t fight hard enough for us. This album, these songs…they’re the punishments for my own bad choices. I- I just need you to know that, okay?”

Leah nodded and slipped her cool hands up to your warm cheeks before pulling you into a kiss.

It had been a good few months since that moment, nearly a year. Leah could finally listen to the album now without crying, but still, you were worried that singing these sentimental songs to a live audience would reopen old wounds.

The night was finally here, and you were doing a soundcheck on stage in the O2 before the opening night of your show. The venue was empty, some security getting ready to put up safety rails knowing how crazy some fans could be, some sound techs tampering with lights.

You were instructed to play through the set as a warmup for the actual thing, and that wouldn’t have been a problem if the girl you had written the damn songs about wasn’t right in front of you, sitting at the end of the stage.

“Y’okay?” The blonde asked as you walked over to her, microphone in hand, sitting down beside her as your legs dangled from the edge of the stage.

“Nervous, a little more than usual.” You admitted with a huff, toying with the mic in your hands. You were only dressed in shorts and an oversized hoodie right now, whereas Leah was fully dressed in tight fitting trousers, complimenting black boots, a beige top and leather jacket.

“You’ll be fine.” Leah nudged your arm with her elbow.

“Oh, I know that.” You teased back, cockily, which earned you an eye roll. “It’s just weird singing about a breakup with a girl when she’s watching you from the side of the stage.” Leah let out a laugh at that, but before she could launch into a rant about how it was all in the past, you pressed your lips against her own, savouring the moment of having the love of your life sat on the stage you would sing your heart out on.

“Y/N! Do you wanna do a test run of one of the songs?” One of the event technicians called to you, ruining the sweet kiss you shared with Leah. You both pulled apart, now sporting a rather irritated grin at being interrupted, to which Leah smirked, her eyes wandering elsewhere to avoid bursting out laughing.

“Sure.” You shrugged. Pushing yourself up, you walked over to the tech and picked one of the songs. Before you made your decision, you looked at Leah, who was still gazing out into the empty arena, before selecting one you think would be best.

The speakers made some strange noises, like they were being turned on, and Leah turned around.

“Hang on, dickhead! I need to move.” Leah shouted, but you shook your head.

“Stay right there or you’ll ruin it.” You instructed, and the song began to play.

Leah swore she was about to get up anyway, swivelling around to stand up on the stage, but the song you had chosen left her stuck in her spot. You smirked devilishly, knowing that it was a good choice, her favourite. Clearing your throat, the first verse began.

Swear I couldn't sleep a wink last night No point in turning off the lights Not the same without your head on my shoulders Growing pains, but I don't wanna get older Almost like we left it all on read

As you sang, you took several steps closer to where she was sat, not daring to take your eyes off the girl you were practically serenading in this empty arena.  

Couple feelings never laid to rest Didn't know that the party was over And it's true that I need you, get closer

Leah had heard this song plenty of times, but hearing you sing it in person, in front of her was totally different. This was about her, for her. Your steps had finally taken you close enough to her, where you basically towering over her.

Burning photos, had to learn to let go, whoa I used to weep Somebody in another skin (another skin) I heard that you're happy without me And I hope it's true (I hope, I hope it's true)

You took the small break in the song as opportunity to sit down in front of her. A deep breath was let out before the next lines, knowing they were the most crushing to write.

It kills me a little, that's okay 'Cause I'd die for you You know I'd still die for you

It was a strange feeling, singing a song about watching the love of your life move on with someone else, knowing there was nothing you could do about it.

I hope you're getting everything you needed (needed) Find the puzzle piece and feel completed (completed) Just wanted you to know every reason Hope you really know that I mean that Couldn't see the forest from the trees The only time we speak is in my dreams

You never had any ill-will toward Leah and her at the time partner, since you had no right to be. Despite how much it hurt, you would love her even if she wasn’t yours, and do anything for her to be happy, even if it meant letting you go.

Burning photos, had to learn to let go I used to weep Somebody in another skin (another skin) I heard that you're happy without me And I hope it's true (I hope, I hope it's true)

Your free hand reached out and shifted to tuck a stray piece of Leah’s hair that had fallen out from behind her ear, studying her eyes as the once again welled with tears.

It kills me a little, that's okay

You sang the last few lines to her, like there was no one else in the room but you two. You needed her to know that no matter what had happened, you still loved her. You always would. She had left an irremovable mark on your heart that would follow you forever.

'Cause I'd die for you You know I'd still die for you

The song trailed off, and once again, like the first time she had heard it, tears began to flow.

“You promised you wouldn’t cry!” You complained, falling back dramatically as you switched off the mic and dropped it to the side. Lying on your back, you heard Leah laugh and sniffle, before a familiar warm body collapsed on top of you, wrapping arms around your side.

“I can’t believe you wrote that for me.” She whispered in your ear, allowing you to put your hands on her back and hold her close on the stage.

“I wrote several for you, in case you forgot.” You chimed in, getting a slap on the head for your comment. “I’m kidding.”

You both sat up, but this time with Leah basically sat on your lap. Her arms around your neck, yours placed on her waist.

“I love you. Always have, always will.”

“I love you too. Always have, always will.”

A/N: sorry for being gone, and also not my usual marvel post. they are currently in the works, but i wanted to branch out a little.

[seekers-who-are-lovers]

Kuroshitsuji

and Radetzky March

Every New Year’s Day, it is a tradition that the Viennese Philharmonic Orchestra plays this staple public favourite to end their performance. The concert is televised in more than 90 countries. Last year, they began to stream it on the internet, which one can watch for free in five days.

Seiji Ozawa conducting, 2002

Anyway, since I’ve become interested in Kuroshitsuji/Black Butler it is thrilling to find out that Yana Toboso included it on her story. Will the song be incorporated into the Public School arc in April? I’d love to see and hear Sebastian Michaelis as the maestro conducting it.

Now, it is true that it is a patriotic song. And the history behind it is bloody. The melody is very happy for sure, as if you’ve come out from the battle/war unscathed. Victorious, yes. Who wouldn’t be? No wonder, Sebastian loves it. It also has the same cadence like the heartbeat.

A background: Strauss the Father composed it for the Count Joseph Radetzky von Radetz. It is to commemorate his regiment’s advancing to Northern Italy. One time listening to our tour guide in Venice, she mentioned this part of history to us, she showed us the cannons they retrieved from the Austrian army, which fired and destroyed their buildings indiscriminately during the bloody days of 1848. Those states made up of the Austrian-Hungary Empire that wanted their freedom so much but the emperor sent his troops instead to stop these revolts from happening. One Venetian hotel that survived the bombing incorporated the cannonballs to its building as a reminder of the centuries past.

Some Austrian historians believe it is time to “cancel” the song or rather remove the song from the yearly Neujahrskonzert. The yearly traditional concert has a few problems. But not this song. One of them is the lack of female conductors leading the orchestra. Whereas Ricardo Mutti, an Italian maestro, will reportedly lead the concert again next year for the, get this, seventh time!!!

It was only in 2002 when they let the late Japanese conductor Seiji Ozawa, the first ever Asian, to lead the orchestra and received standing ovation after playing the staple ending song of Radetzky March.

It is very important to remember the past and learn from it. Austria, once an empire, knows it very well, to be stripped of the lands and power it once willed. But in some aspects they learned the lesson. Not all, but most. Thing is, removing this song from the yearly concert feels like something is lacking. Also, I don’t think it would solve the issue of the Austrian philharmonic orchestra where it is dominated by male musicians.

I digress.

Am curious of Yana T’s connection to it. I would really love to know if she watches the televised concert every New Year’s Day. Or did she choose it specifically bc of popularity or the history. Or the melody.

[spiderlandry]

YOUR BLOG>>>>

i had a chad idea that i think you would write so well!! can you please do a singer!reader x chad fic where the reader is a famous singer and chad goes their concerts and already knows all the words to the songs and he’s just super fun and supportive?

thank you so much!

this is such a cute idea <3 i used to dream of being a singer when i was a kid (until i realized i was bad LOL) so this kinda felt nostalgic for some reason. i’ve also never been to a concert so sorry if it’s not accurate!

100 follower event

warnings: mentions of ghostface murders, kissing, established relationship, takes place (kinda) way into the future lol, not proofread i apologize

voice — chad meeks-martin

Chad had never been more proud in his life.

You’re in the dressing room, sitting at the vanity mirror about two hours before the show starts. You’d been talking to Chad who is sitting on the tiny couch while you bounce with nervousness in your seat. It’s your biggest show yet, and though you’ve performed time and time again during the tour, the fact that it’s thousands of people coming to see you still makes you giddy.

“God, I’m fucking nervous.” You look to him with those puppy eyes that endeared you to him when you first met in college.

He stands up and walks over to you, cupping your cheek. “I’m so proud of you, alright?”

You smile, putting your hands around his torso. (You’ll never get used to the feeling of his abs.)

“How did I get so lucky, hm?” You whisper. “I can’t believe you’re here.” And he knows you’re not just referring to how he’s gone overseas, paying out of his own pocket—though you offered to pay, he refused—just to see you perform. (You still gave him a discount.) You’re also referring to everything you’ve gone through together, including the ghostface murders.

“I think that’s my line,” he grins. “You’ll do great out there, by the way. I’ll be down there singing along, as always. And…I gotta go.”

“Do you really have to go?”

“You know I have to, I need to get a good view.”

“You always have a good view of me, though.”

“Oh, yeah?” He snickers, leaning in for a kiss.

“Yeah.” You slot your lips over his, melding together perfectly as it always had been.

You pull back first, and he almost whines.

“You’re the one who said you have to go, remember? Get a good view.” You tap his chest as he pouts.

“Well, Anika’s probably coming soon anyway. I don’t wanna face her wrath.”

For previous concerts, you hired Anika as your head costume designer as she studied fashion design and it worked out well because you were already friends—so you decided to take her on tour as part of the team.

As if on cue, the door opens and Anika is standing at there, beautiful as ever.

“Hey,” Chad drags out the word, like he’d been caught doing something he wasn’t supposed to. “Look who we have here, what a surprise, eh?”

Anika rolls her eyes, unsurprised at Chad’s antics, almost annoyed. But the slight upturn of her lips says otherwise. “Go. They need to get dressed, dingus.”

As she pushes him out of the room, he exclaims, “Dingus is my thing!” while the door closes on him.

“How do you feel now that he’s your brother-in-law?”

She scoffs, laughing. “Don’t remind me.”

-

Chad chants your name along with the crowd, cheering as you appear on stage and began to sing the first song.

Your voice is still as angelic as the first time he heard it in freshman year during karaoke night. He practically swoons when you spot him in the crowd and flash him a smile, people around him screaming as they might have thought it was them you looked at, but he will always know that smile is for him. Only him.

He watches you play the crowd as if it’s your birthright. The audience sing with you, the packed stadium lighting up with the glowing wristbands given at the start of the show.

It’s at the end of the setlist when you begin to talk.

“Before the last song, I would just like to play something extra,” You say, out of breath from the performance. The audience cheers. “This song isn’t even released yet, so I don’t know how it’s gonna go—I didn’t rehearse.” You laugh.

Chad wonders what song it is—you didn’t tell him, typically he’d know if you planned to do something different.

“I wanna dedicate it to somebody in the audience, somebody who…” You scan your eyes to find him in the crowd, and everyone around him gawks. “Somebody who has supported me from the beginning, right there,” You point, and he laughs out of disbelief. “Chad, I love you.”

After a brief moment, you add, “And please don’t make fun of his name, it’s a sensitive topic.”

They laugh as the song begins to play, the boom of the bass overtaking the speakers, and your voice floods the area once again.

Tears line his eyes. You’d played this song for him only once before, but it was so long ago. It was in his dorm room, a few nights after he’d asked you to be his and you gathered the courage to show him songs you’ve worked on. Albeit the original was much less refined, only the bare bones of it, but he’d seen your potential and pushed you to start getting gigs at small places.

The nostalgia takes over like a wave. A tear falls, and unbeknownst to him, a fan films his reaction and posts it even before the concert ends.

-

DELETED SCENE

In your hotel room, you’re awake before Chad. You admire his sleeping features for a moment before you open your phone to see a text message from Anika.

Anika bby <3

saw this on instagram

[Attachment: 1 Video]

You press play, and end up tapping your boyfriend awake.

“Hm?” He murmurs groggily, sleep dripping off his voice. “What?” He rubs his eyes, and stares at you, trying to hold in a laugh.

“What’s so funny?” He asks.

“You cried last night?” You coo, and can’t help but giggle when he props himself up on his elbow a little too quickly and gets lightheaded.

“Who told you?”

You hand him the phone wordlessly.

He squints while the headache goes away, eyes widening when he finally sees clearly.

He grins at you, “So, what? Can I not cry over the love of my life dedicating a song to me?”

“You’re such a sap,” though you tease him, the prospect warms your heart.

And though he laughs, there’s a ring burning through a hole in his suitcase; if you’re calling him a sap now, he wonders what you’ll do when he makes his speech for your hand in marriage.

[olympusgenius]

How’d the high heel challenge go? Or are you guys still preparing for it?

"Guhhh! I wished nobody would remember that challenge! Damn it!..."

"Umm, Heph...I-I wanted to ask you about that challenge, I heard it was livestreamed but I had a study session because I was on exams' week"

After make his little huff and calm himself, Hephaestus decides to tell his experience at that challenge

"F-Fine...Talos, bring some drinks and snacks please, this will be a long tale to tell..."

"Coming right up, Creator!"

Talos brings a jug of iced tea and glasses and a plate full of snacks while Hephaestus fix his lab to make it comfortable

"Ok...After Grandfather got upset about my answer about who would be better walk in heels and Arachne's intervention, she made it into a challenge like in a reality show, after some weeks, she told us about the rules of this challenge...

First, our guild would walk a tour from Kamata to Akihabara in heels, she provided us with her new footwear line, whoever wanted to tap out from the challenge, that person would yell "flat out" and take off the heels, the last one who surrenders or stay with the heels on the feet at the final checkpoint would be the winner.

The first checkpoint was an izakaya close to the train station, and we were wearing boots, I believed I could get free from the challenge because of my prosthetics...but no...I was in the challenge too...we were fine, and nobody "flatted out" from there, but Arachne made us model at the izakaya, Kurogane almost falls with his face to the floor, Amatsumara was looking kinda uncomfortable but he resisted to "flat out".

Then, we took the train to the next checkpoint, and Arachne made us strut at the train, Takemaru reclaimed and fall after the train stopped, and we changed the boots for high-heeled sandals, but before that, Musashi "flatted out" because he was feeling ashamed about wear girly shoes.

The second point was a bar, and when we come, we model again while we were playing some pool and take some drinks, then Tvastar got a little tipsy and was dancing on a pool table and suddenly he jumped out to make a split...but he falls and hurt his balls, he "flatted out" but he said it was fun.

Later, the rest of us took the train to the third checkpoint, a minigolf field...and the footwear we would be wearing...Formal pumps, it got complicated because those shoes were prone to sprain ankles at unexperimented feet, Grandfather was having problems with them but he didn't admit defeat yet, we were playing while Arachne and Catoblepas were making us pose in a photoshoot...then someone came yelling to Takemaru, it was Motosumi and he brought his kids to play minigolf but he reclaimed Takemaru why he was setting a bad example to his kids wearing hooker's heels and pulling him from his ears, Takemaru tried to explain but Motosumi was still upset, he was forced to tap out.

After that, we changed the pumps for platform stilettos (sighs)...then we had a hell time wearing them to the next spot, a maid cafe where he had to sing and dance...it was unsettling for me to have to sing a silly song and dance at public while people was cheering on us, at least we rest a little but Kurogane falls over his face when one of his heels got stuck in a stool while he was standing up, he tapped out.

Finally, we were Grandfather, Talos and I still on the challenge, and the final checkpoint was Akihabara Academy's theater stage, and Arachne and her team made us wear platforms and make a performance...we were tired but Amatsumara was still up on his horse until during our bodybuilding posing performance he missteps and made us fall at stage..."

"And then?"

"We declare it a Draw...Arachne gave us a prize after that and tolds us the challenge's livestream was successful, even she wants to make it again but with another guild..."

"Ok...was nice and all, but what was the prize?"

All this time, Talos was hiding his feet until he shows them wearing a certain footwear

"(Ehem, ehem) you want me to click heels three times to see what happens, Mama?"

Talos was wearing a replica of the Ruby Slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" movie while he crossed his legs, Hephaestus was wearing his replica too but shyly, making a little heel click due to his embarrassment

"G-Grandfather has a pair too if you wanted to know..."