#and also we are having some kind of meeting with food etc tomorrow in the office upstairs but also rhe atmosphere is so not it and dudes not

[catchmewjsn]

.

[saydams]

Amtrak expansion comment period ends tomorrow! (march 8 2024)

you can leave your comment here

This will restore service to places that used to have passenger trains, and add trains to exisiting routes to make service daily instead of just alternating days. it would also add new routes (in green, below)

bulletin from railroad workers united:

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is conducting an Amtrak Daily Long-Distance Service Study to evaluate the restoration of daily long-distance intercity rail passenger service and the potential for new Amtrak long-distance routes. This study will ultimately create a long-term vision for long-distance passenger rail service and identify capital projects and funding needed to implement that vision. The initial proposal would add 15 long-distance routes, serving 61 additional metropolitan areas to create a true national network. The FRA is seeking public input by Friday, March 8. After public comment, the FRA will make capital and operating cost estimates, and make recommendations to Congress. This Amtrak expansion plan has been 50 years in the making and of course, should have been executed in the 1970s or 1980s. Amtrak has survived against endless budget cuts, threats to eliminate various trains, micro-managing by Congress on food service options, and attempts to dismantle or privatize parts or even its entire system. So this is a huge step forward. That said, the forces allied against this proposal are huge, led by Class One rail carriers. They fight tooth and nail against any proposed new Amtrak route or additional frequency. RWU feels that the best way forward is to bring the railroads under public control, at least the basic infrastructure (track, signals, yards, terminals, etc) or it is very unlikely that we will see much in the way of passenger train expansion. In the meantime, smart Class One rail carriers will welcome the additional income stream from accommodating passenger service and the access to public money for track improvements that will improve freight service as well. Many sectors are coming together around a publicly run rail network - like the Plumb Plan of old - one that is administered by professional railroaders, representatives of the craft workers, and government appointees to protect the public interest. Check out the listing of endorsing organizations to date HERE. Do you want to make your voice heard on this vital question of an expanded passenger rail network? If so, please read through the presentation materials and make a comment by Friday, March 8.

read about the study here

high speed rail alliance reactions to the study

comment on the study here

Rail Passengers Association news on the FRA Study

THE ROUND THREE LD MAP IS OUT! February 16, 2024

You can click here to download all 163 pages of meeting materials we reviewed last week and this week. Your job as interested citizens and advocates is to review the materials, and offer constructive, fact-based feedback on how the routes are put together, what kinds of continuing planning should be done, and whether and how an independent entity should be created to ensure that as these route projects unfold the served communities continue to have a voice in making sure they really happen. You have until March 8th to review the materials and then draft and submit your feedback to the study team using the email address contactus@fralongdistancerailstudy.org. Remember, constructive, fact-based, specific observations and suggestions are the way to go here. Some 5,000 comments have been reviewed to date, and comments truly did help shape the final routings selected by the FRA team.

15 NEW TRAINS: CLOSER TO OUR LONG-DISTANCE GOALS February 16, 2024

Keep an eye out for the public release of the study materials on the FRA long-distance study website (which you can reach by clicking here), but here’s a brief rundown of the 15 new routes FRA offered up for our consideration in the upcoming Round Four later this spring: 1 – Chicago to Miami, via Indianapolis, Louisville, Nashville, Chattanooga, Atlanta, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa. 2 – Dallas/Fort Worth to Miami, via Marshall, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Pensacola, Tallahassee, and Jacksonville. 3 – Denver to Houston, via Trinidad, Amarillo, and Dallas/Fort Worth. 4 – Los Angeles to Denver, via Barstow, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Cheyenne. 5 – Phoenix to Minneapolis/St. Paul, via Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Newton, Kansas City, Omaha, and Sioux Falls. 6 – Dallas/Fort Worth to New York, via Oklahoma City, Tulsa, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Pittsburgh. 7 – Houston to New York, via New Orleans, Mobile, Montgomery, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Roanoke, Lynchburg, Lorton, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. 8 – Seattle to Denver, via Portland, Boise, Pocatello, Salt Lake City, and Grand Junction. 9 – San Antonio to Minneapolis/St. Paul, via Dallas/Fort Worth, Tulsa, Kansas City, and Des Moines. 10 – San Francisco to Dallas/Fort Worth, via Merced, Bakersfield, Barstow, Phoenix, Tucson, El Paso, and Midland. 11 – Detroit to New Orleans, via Columbus, Cincinnati, Louisville, Nashville, Montgomery, and Mobile. 12 – Denver to Minneapolis/St. Paul, via Cheyenne, Pierre, and Sioux Falls. 13 – Seattle to Chicago, via Yakima, Kennewick, Spokane, Sandpoint, Helena, Billings, Bismarck, and Fargo. 14 – Dallas/Fort Worth to Atlanta, via Marshall, Jackson, Meridian, and Birmingham. 15 – El Paso to Billings, via Albuquerque, Trinidad, Denver, Cheyenne, and Casper.

FRA STUDY DRAFT: MORE TRAINS, MORE PLACES February 9, 2024

If this map is fully realized, 89 percent of the U.S. population would have access to Amtrak trains, including 19 million more Americans in the most-populated metropolitan areas. In this plan some 13 million Americans who lost service to the various Amtrak cuts over the years would get it back. This new map would add 102 stations in rural communities, nearly doubling service in rural areas. Tribal areas would see 112 percent more access, and for people living in what the Dept. of Transportation defines as “health-disadvantaged areas” – that is, areas with poor access to medical facilities and hospitals – there would be 66 percent greater access. Five million people without good medical access could get it via this new map, which would ensure that 86 percent of all U.S. medical centers are served.

source

@amtrak-official, did you know about this?

[twoset-updates]

[100623 hong kong vip meet and greet audio recording + transcription]

link to recording: https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV19h4y1G7zp/

transcription of Q&A section below:

notes:

transcription/translation has been done to the best of ability; some parts were unclear due to noise, slurred speech, etc. 

note that as there is no video, there may be missing context from facial expressions or gestures.

any participants’ names mentioned are not written here as we do not know how their names are spelt.

those asking questions are referred to as Q[number].

approximate time stamps have been provided at intervals.

minimally edited for clarity. (they say “um” way too often.)

00:19

Staff: So we’ll first start off with a Q&A session, and afterwards it’ll be a signing, of course, there’s... so I’ll give the floor to Brett and Eddy. Thanks.

Brett: Thank you, thank you. [away from the mic] Can you guys hear me? [into the mic] Do I need this? This is better?

Eddy: Hi. Oooh.

B: Okay, we can use the mic.

E: I wanna see if there’s autotune. [sings offkey]

B: That’s a A?

E: [sings note] That’s an A. [sings again] Anyone with perfect pitch? No? No? Okay. Oh, in the front, nice. [sings again] That’s an A, right?

B: That’s an A?

E: Just checking, nice, nice.

B: [sings note]

E: Sounded a little bit sharp.

B: [sings the same note in a lower octave]

E: That’s sharp.

B: That’s not an A. [sings again in a higher octave]

E: That’s an A, but it’s sharp.

B: A-sharp.

E: No, it’s not A-sharp.

B: Okay, I’ll stop embarrassing ourselves.

01:14

B: Well, everyone, thanks so much for coming. This, we’ve actually been in Hong Kong for a few days now, right?

E: Yeah.

B: Um, it’s been like, five days? Six days? Can’t remember. It’s been a– This whole week has been a blur, because we’ve been preparing for our very first concert—tomorrow—of the tour. And it’s actually a special one ‘cause it’s with the HKFO orchestra, right? And so there’s a lot of moving parts, and this week, I don’t know, Eddy, what has been your favourite part of food in Hong Kong, so far?

E: I don’t know, I think Hong Kong just has some of the best, you guys have some of the best food in the world.

B: I have to agree, like—

E: And it’s not just like, Hong Kong food, it’s like, all different cuisines. Like yesterday we had a buffet, and it was just like...

B: Everything was there.

E: All the different styles, I’m like...

B: We even had pizza. And it was pretty good.

E: Yeah, and we even had like chicken rice, and like, [quietly] to be honest, I think it was better than Singapore, but... [normal volume] Can I say that? [laughs] Yeah, so I think the food here’s been great. The weather’s nice, actually. I know people think it’s really hot, but, y’know, Australia and Singapore also get pretty hot, as well, so... We’re used to it, I think. Yeah. 

02:33

E: Um, so yeah, it’s been really crazy, and we’re really– we really want to– I can’t wait to show you guys the show, but we– we think we should keep most of it a secret. I am just curious though: okay, raise of hands, who here plays an instrument? [pause] Nice. Okay. Can I– I’m curious, who– Keep your hands up if you have done, like, a music exam before, like ABRSM. [pause] Nice.

Brett: [laughs]

E: I think you guys will enjoy tomorrow’s show, then, ‘cause it’s– we wanted to– it was inspired off, like, we want to make it kind of relatable to what it’s like being a music student growing up, but... Yeah, I don’t know if there’s anything you want to say before we go to Q&A.

B: [mic malfunctioning] Does anyone– [inaudible] Hello? Hello? [mic works again] Hello? I think I can– [quietly] I think I accidentally turned it off. [normal volume] Anyway.

03:33

B: Did anyone go to our last show?

Fans: No.

E: Oh, wow.

B: Well, no one– no one came back. [fans laugh] Well, this might be your first and last one, too! [laughs]

E: Oh, no.

B: No... Okay, no, it’ll be fun. We can’t say too much, but Eddy kind of hinted at what it might be like, so I think I’m super excited. It’s also like, when it’s the first show, it’s– we never really know what’s gonna happen, too. So it’s kinda just, we’re gonna get thrown into the stage, just see just (a) pit of people, and we’re gonna just go from there, see what happens.

E: Yeah. Um, I mean... Yeah, ‘cause it’s like, we try to come up with a script, and a storyline, right? And we put in, like, jokes that we think, or we hope, are gonna be funny. But again, like you guys will be the first ones to hear this. So I’m really hoping there’s not gonna be like, dead silence, just like, no one laughs at your joke—ugh, just die on the inside, right? Nah, I think it’ll be fine.

04:38

E: Should we open up for some Q&A?

B: Yeah.

E: I’d love to chat with anyone that has some questions. Okay, lady there in white first?

Q1: Actually I have two questions. Number one is, your YouTube channel has been established since 2014, and that time you came in that your dream is to bring classical music to more people, and continue to inspire the next generation. Now, I think your dream is come true, right? So, then, what’s your next career path? What will you do, say, after twenty years? Still the YouTuber? Or do a few, some music school to educate the young– [inaudible, fans cheering] Ling Ling School.

B: I don’t know, I think Eddy wants to become a TikToker next. [laughs] Just kidding.

E: I’m too old for that, man. [laughs]

B: That’s a really good question. I don’t know how to answer that. I think...

E: I think if anything, you should show them your, uh, Arigatou dance, that you’ve been practicing.

[fans cheer]

B: [laughs] Let’s not preempt anything for tomorrow.

E: [laughs]

Fan: We can sing it for you!

B: [laughing] Oh, no no no.

Q1: [inaudible] Professor in Hong Kong.

06:06

B: Oh, professor in Hong Kong. Okay, look, I think for– [sighs] it’s tricky, because if you asked us ten years ago, what we would do, and say, ‘Look, we’re gonna make YouTube videos, or do these skits online, or tour over the world,’ we wouldn’t have believed anyone, right? We wouldn’t know. And one thing is for sure, is we never really know what would happen in ten years. We can only kind of guess where we’re going, kind of like, which direction we’re going. 

And we’re r– Actually we’ve– First of all, we’re really fortunate to have people watch our content, and then doubly fortunate to have people also inspired to pick up an instrument. Like we’ve seen that countless of times, wherever we go. I don’t know how it happened; I think, maybe we’re just someone there that... I mean, when we were growing up, we were basically watching violinists like Oistrakh online—like, black and white. That’s all we had on YouTube. And I remember my lap—like my violin’d be on my lap, I was watching, (and I’d) like play (the violin), trying to copy the violinist. But there wasn’t actually any YouTubers, like, in those times.

07:10

But in the future, I think educators is also definitely something we wanna do. Definitely always trying to—what’d that say?—make the pie bigger, or something. Like, so more and more people can come into classical music. And I think, I feel like, it’s not just us, it involves a lot of– more people as well. So, more– I mean, the last three years, there’s been a lot more classical music content creators. Which is a good thing. We’re bringing into more awareness that classical music is something that is just generally good for us, yeah—all the practice we do. And it has– I think it has good value, since practicing, you know, hard work, discipline—these are the things that we learn being a classical musician. Um, yeah, hope that answered your question. Um, [laughs] I just–

07:52

Q1: And the second question is, so, will you have the pressure from like, negative comment? Especially when you have, sometimes, [unclear]. How do you handle the haters and release your tension?

B: Wait, I just heard, what did I– is it back pain? Or–

Fans: [laugh]

B: Oh, Blackpink! I heard back pain!

E: Yeah, my back’s a bit sore, like– [inaudible, fans laughing]

B: I legit heard back pain.

E: [laughs]

Q1: So, how do you handle the haters, and like, let it out?

E: [groans] I mean, do you wanna answer that one?

B: I mean, I get back pain.

Fans: [laugh]

E: Like I think... Let me quickly ask Paganini. Because it wasn’t us, so it’s Paganini that had all the haters. So now, I’ll quickly call Paganini. 

Yo man, Paganini, how’d you handle the haters? [pretending to be Paganini] I just flex on them with my Paganini 24 Caprices! [inaudible, fans cheering]

08:56

Um, I don’t know, I think... I remember very clearly that day that we posted the video. And the first one or two hours were just, like y’know, Twoset subscribers, fans, watching it. They were like, “Oh, this is so clever, this is funny,” right? And then I remember at the time, we posted around our, like, midnight. So I was like, “This is kinda too calm. It’s like the calm before the storm.” I was like, “I’ll try to go to sleep,” but I couldn’t sleep that night, I was just like, “I feel like something’s gonna go off.” But eventually, y’know, after lying in bed for one or two hours, I fell asleep. Then I remember [laughing] when we woke up—

B: [laughs]

E:—it’s like, all my phone notifications (going), “DING DING DING DING DING DING DING!” I was like, “Oh my god.” And then so I remember reading through (the notifications/comments). And, to be honest, it’s like we kind of– I mean, we know how the internet works, and we expected the possibility that this would happen. So when it did happen it was like, “Okay, fair enough.”

10:00

I think, the– I did think one thing that caught me off guard at the time was, I was shocked at how much they went not just at us. ‘Cause I knew they were gonna come for us and say things about [inaudible]. But I was shocked that they came for everyone we knew. So I remember at the time, we met, like, James Ehnes—that soloist—the week before. And they were like, threatening him. They were sending– and he– I remember he, like, messaged us, and he’s like, “Who’s Blackpink?” ‘Cause he had no idea, and we were like, “[groans] Okay.” So we had to explain all that. And I remember the time they were trying to cancel our Mendelssohn with the Singapore Symphony, and so that was a little bit, like, shocking.

10:47

Um, but I think, I don’t know ‘bout you, but for me, it’s like... it was like– Okay, so first of all, when all the hate started coming in, I remember thinking, first of all, a lot of it was, like, kind of not very... intelligent comments, right? It was just like, vomit emojis, and poo emojis. I’m like, “Okay, I haven’t really read anything that’s legitimate,” you know, so I’m like, “Okay, that’s okay.” But then, I remember, like, it was really interesting to see, during that time, my– our close friends really stood up for us. So I think that was really... thankful. I mean, ‘cause you still feel it, right? You know it’s gonna happen, you know it doesn’t make sense, but you still kinda feel like, “Whoa, what is–” There are these people telling us to, like, literally do all these bad things and stuff, right? So I think it was cool, just how, like, our friends supported us, and be like, “Oh, just don’t listen to them.”

11:46

And then, obviously, I remember there was, like, after six hours, then a bunch of positive– you know, a lot of Twosetters came to support and defend us again. And that really helped, seeing people, like, stand up for us. I think it was really funny too, like then– it became like a fan war, as well. Like, BTS ARMY people were standing up for us, and I was like– I don’t know, it became like a battle between them, and I was like, “I have no idea what’s going on, this, like, K-Pop thing,” but um, yeah.

12:17

I think, going back to your question, how do we handle the hate? I guess... yeah, like, it just helped having friends and knowing that– and having, like, fans support us. I think that was the most important thing. I think if everyone was telling us what we did was bad, then I’d probably actually have a existential crisis. But you know, we had friends that was like, “No, I think what you did was fine, don’t worry about fans”—like you guys, you know—“it’s okay.” And then, also just knowing– ‘Cause I think also knowing, deep down, I think what we did was, like, it wasn’t... wrong. Like, I think– I mean, come on, standing up with– The whole theme of the song is like, you have to, at a certain point, stand up for your own values, right? And so, deep down, I– we believed in what we were saying. And when we looked at the comments, no one made us change our mind, because every comment was just like, poo emoji, so I’m like, “Okay, I think we’re still in the right,” y’know, so... yeah. That’s my perspective, I don’t know about you.

13:25

B: Uh, I think I forgot everything, it’s just [inaudible, fans laughing]. No, okay. It’s the same, I– Look, “haters always gonna hate”, we all know that line. And that was definitely, like, the most we’ve ever gotten. And Eddy was right. I remember watching the video, also kind of lying in bed. I was thinking, “I should probably go to sleep, this video... took a while to work it out.” And nothing happened, I was like, “Oh wow! Eddy, I don’t think we went hard enough.” No, I’m just joking. I’m like– And we did have a lot of iterations of the...

E: The lyrics.

B: The lyrics. So the one that we put out was actually quite mellow, [laughs] [unclear] what we had. But we did think that our original one was too far, so we’re like, “Okay, no, let’s just turn it back.” But like, it’s just another... you know.

E: It wasn’t us, it was Paganini, by the way.

B: Yeah, yeah. Oh yeah, it’s, uh, Paganini, yeah, yeah. And then Mozart kinda just pranked Paganini the whole time, too, so.

14:29

[staff speaking inaudibly]

Yes. Oh, okay, okay, okay, sorry. We gotta get on to the next question. So sorry, let’s get on to the next question. [Brett and Eddy talking at the same time, Brett laughs.]

E: Do you want to choose? [Brett speaks inaudibly] Um... I don’t know, you choose. I picked the one before.

B: White mask.

E: White mask? 

[some people speaking, trying to identify which person]

E: Okay, yeah.

Q2: Hello, Brett and Eddy.

B: Hello.

Q2: I’m [name], and I have been a fan since the Ben Lee video, in 2019, and–

E: Since which–?

Q2: The Ben Lee video.

B: Oh, Ben Lee video– [inaudible, fans laughing]

E: Sacrilegious.

Q2: And it’s really a dream come true, to get to meet you in person. And so I would like to ask, out of the many videos that you have made, except for those million (subscriber) drops, do you have any particular videos that you like the most, or you feel (are) very memorable?

E: Mm. Um, sorry, can I just check, uh–

[commotion, sounds like some kind of accident happened]

Someone: You okay?

Q2: Yeah, I’m okay.

15:43

E: Okay. Um, “out of all the videos which ones we feel are memorable”, is that the question, right? [pause] Okay, this is recent, like, just ‘cause it’s fresh off my mind, but actually the video we posted yesterday. I don’t know if you guys saw, it was really fun. But we got invited to a univer– our old university, to be adjudicators. That was really... it felt really special to us, because it was where we studied, and we both did the competition before. And, uh, I didn’t win it, so.

Fans: [laugh]

E: But now I’m the adjudicator, so I was like, y’know. But I think that was really fun. There’s so many that I really like. Have you guys seen the video with, um, where we spoke Chinese, and the two spoke Korean, Hyung and Angie? That was really funny. And like, “ddongssa”, and we thought that was rosin? I really like that one. I don’t know, Brett, do you have any that stick out for you?

16:49

B: Uh, for me– Okay, that adjudication video we did, posted a couple of days ago, was special. One that stuck out straight away was the Among Us video we did for the Mendelssohn octet. I don’t know if you guys seen that one. That was really fun, especially playing with other people, and trying to figure it out, all that stuff. So that was definitely special. And... what else is there...

E: We did a video with HKFO actually, this week. And that was a really fun one, so–

B: Oh, that was it, that was good.

E: I’m pretty excited for that as well. Yeah, so many (videos), I don’t know. It’s like, it’s been ten years of making videos, almost. I think this is our tenth year, right?

B: Yep, [inaudible]

E: Yeah, so um... yeah.

B: The back pain is real now.

E: Yeah, the back pain [inaudible]. Yeah. Any other questions? Uh, yes?

17:47

Q3: Actually, it’s you guys who inspired (me) to study music next year. And I have grant to study abroad, to UK, [inaudible]

E: Oh, nice. Exciting.

B: Oh, congratulations.

Q3: Thank you.

[fans clapping]

Q3: And I want to ask, what’s suggestion would you guys give to someone who’s going to study music?

E: Uh, can I ask what instrument you play?

Q3: Trombone and piano.

E: Trombone and piano... I don’t have– I don’t know trombone advice.

B: I’ve never heard of that combo before, trombone and piano. Do you– Do you have a– Do you have one that you like more?

Q3: I think trombone.

B: Ohhh......

Q3: ‘Cause, like, the ratio of female and male trombonist is, like, one to nine. So I–

E: One to nine?! Wow.

Q3: I’ve only met around, like, five female trombonist in Hong Kong. But, yeah, but imagine it’s like, 100 people who play that.

E: That’s true, I’m trying to think about all the orchestras we played in. How many female trombonists have we seen?

B: None.

[fans laugh]

E: Queensland Symphony was all guys. Sydney Symphony?

B: None. They’re all–

[fans laugh harder]

E: Wow.

B: They’re all, they’re all usually on french horn.

E: Yes, usually.

B: Female players usually play on french horn.

E: Or trumpet, [inaudible]

B: Or trumpet, yeah, trumpet and french horn. Trombone, wow, you’re a first, I guess.

19:17

E: Actually, can I ask? How do trombone players view tuba players?

Q3: Can you repeat that?

E: How do trombone players view tuba players? Is it kinda like violin and viola?

Q3: Yeah, it’s like violin but it’s– there will be a few notes in one position, and you need to memorise them.

E: Okay.

Q3: Yeah.

E: Interesting. Yeah, I don’t know. What advice would you give, going to study in the UK?

B: You gotta book out all the practice rooms in advance. I know a lot about students’ struggle with that overseas, like UK, or the US.

E: Oh, what school? Have you– do you know that?

Q3: Um, that is [name] School. It’s a girls’ college–

E: Oh wow.

Q3: –and I got the scholarship

E: Oh wow. ‘Gratulations.

B: Lowkey flexing. [laughs]

20:02

E: Um, I think... hmm... I don’t know, I don’t know how to give, like, advice very well, ‘cause I feel like advice is always best when it’s like specific to your situation, that’s why–

Q3: So like, what would you suggest to adapt to this new environment?

E: Oh, okay. Adapting to new– you mean, in a different country, or in like a music school?

Q3: Music school, yeah. And I think it works in different countries, as well.

E: Mm... I think, um... My mind’s blanking, [unclear]

B: There’s like, numbers coming out of his head. [high pitched calculation noise] [laughs]

20:50

Okay, I’ll say something. I think when you go– are you going by yourself?

Q3: Yes.

B: Okay, I think, first, definitely meet– you’ll meet a lot of people, right? And always try to get with the community there, the people around you. Because I think when we’re studying, the one thing that’s important is about the people you spent the time with, right? So all the musicians are there, they’ll make you practice, they’ll keep you kind of in check. It’s definitely important to kind of mingle with them, and– I assume you’re, might have to try and get used to the lifestyle there? I mean, I don’t know what the lifestyle is like, but I know that brass players also drink a lot. [laughs]

Q3: Stereotype!

B: [laughs] Sorry. And you’re doing two instruments as well, so definitely... This is like a Sophie question, ‘cause she plays violin and piano, quite well.

E: Yeah.

Q3: I played violin before but the teacher was–

B: Whoa.

Q3: –so weird, that playing the [unclear], like, throw the [unclear] or something, if I play wrong notes, yes.

B: Was your teacher a Blackpink fan? [fans laugh] Just kidding, just kidding.

21:54

Okay, like, look, yeah, I– look, you have to just go with the flow. I know definitely it’s going to be chaotic at the beginning, but just know, after a few months’ time you’ll start settling in. I know when I first moved to Sydney—this wasn’t studying, but when I went to play with the Sydney Symphony—it was very chaotic. Just– I checked my schedule, like, everyday, just trying to make sure I’m on time. But after a while you get used to the flow, and then I think your normal practice routine will be back. So just– if you– it might be stressful at the beginning, so it should be alright, eventually.

E: Yeah, I think it’s just really exciting.

Q3: Yeah.

E: Sounds like a really big step in your life, and just, I think, make the most out of it. I don’t– You seem like you know what you want. You seem... I actually don’t think there’s much advice, other than just to enjoy it as much as you can. You will look back when you’re our age, thirty, like us, going back to uni and be like, “Those were good days.” So yeah, have fun!

Q3: Thank you.

22:57

[inaudible speaking]

E: We’ll go for a few more questions? I think we’ll go for a few more questions, yeah. Thanks. Uhh, Brett, choose.

B: I don’t– uhh, one in blonde.

Q4: I’m so nervous, I typed the question down on my phone, so I will [inaudible]. Since you guys started running your YouTube channel as a hobby, and it turned into a second profession other than being a violinist, I want to know how do you keep the passion alive to work in this situation? Because I’m also turning my hobby as a kid, drawing, to my future career. I’m going to attend art school this year, and I got into my dream school this year! Hooray! Uh, and, so I just wanna know– uh, so I’m already starting to see drawing as a work that has to be done, and I lost the motivation to draw as passionately as before. So, how do you balance– how do you balance it? And how do you [inaudible]. Thank you!

24:01

E: That’s a great question. Brett? [fans laugh] You guys are asking some really difficult questions, actually. That’s a very deep, philosophical... I think we need Wise Yang Sensei, with the life advice.

“How do you keep motivated when your hobby becomes your work,” is your question, right? Um... I think, for... Okay, I think for us, it’s about remembering why, and not losing sight of that. So it’s like, why do you love doing what you do?

24:52

And because it’s... it’s tricky, right? Because we always have to balance things with, kind of, reality, you know? I can’t– Sometimes, once it becomes your work, you have to meet deadlines, you have to work with clients, and sometimes clients might want this or that. And, you know, it’s part of what it’s like to make it your work. But I think if it feels like you’re losing motivation, maybe it’s time to kind of– rather than facing outwards, kind of go back inwards, and reconnect with the reasons why you love doing this—like a “why do you think it’s a good thing”.

25:38

That’s been it for me. I think, like, for example—I said this all the time—like, with YouTube as well, it’s like, it’s easy to fall into that frame of, like, “Oh, as a content creator we’re just chasing views, and then making content.” And there’s definitely been times where we felt the pressure to just make a video to keep making videos, or to make sure we get views, ‘cause if we stop making videos then it’s the internet and people forget about us in two days, you know, things like that, right? 

But then, at the end of the day, it’s like... You know, we did take some time off, and that was scary at the beginning. And then we realised, “Oh, it’s okay, people are still here.” And over time, you kind of decide, “Well, okay, these are the type of videos that we do want to do, because we know we’ll genuinely have fun. And then some video ideas, we know, probably will get a lot of views, but it’s just not something we want to do.” And then so, we’re like, “Okay, y’know, might be a good video but we won’t do it.”

26:46

So, I guess it’s to strike that balance between the job, or what you have to do, and fulfilling what you want inside. And if you don’t feel good, always just to– it means the balance might be a bit too much that way, (so) just kind of (pull) back a little bit. I don’t know if that answers your question.

Q4: Yes, [inaudible].

E: Alright, thank you.

Q4: Thank you!

E: Do you have anything to add?

B: No, I think you answered the question.

[all laugh]

27:12

E: Sweet. Any more questions? Uhh, I saw you raise your hand? Yeah, in black.

Q5: Thank you, Brett and Eddy. What is the most significant critiques you received from your comments, and how do you take that and make improvements? Maybe each one of you?

E: Ooh.

Q5: Thanks.

B: Full of vomit emojis.

Q5: So Brett, you cannot say, “Eddy, you answer the question,” okay?

[all laugh]

E: That was a critique right there.

B: [laughs] Critique. Most significant critic– criticism.

E: I think the most significant critique on comments is, “Eddy, stop doing paper in scissors-paper-rock.” But I never learn from that—I keep doing it anyway. I don’t know, I feel like... I can’t actually think of any off the top of my head. Most comments I can think of have always been so positive. Um... Can you think of any?

B: I honestly can’t. I think– in terms (of) criticism, most significant criticism...

E: Gonna pull out the comments to our latest video.

B: Yeah... I–

E: [laughs]

28:31

B: I mean, when you say criticisms, without the “comment”, I start thinking about me being in my violin lessons—my teacher saying this and that. But in terms of online, it usually feels like... It’s actually just a lot of positive comments usually, honestly. I know a lot of people—you know, we have like, 100 positive comments, one bad comment—people are gonna zone in on that. But we’ve kinda gotten used to that? And we just been treating comments as a feedback, for us to see what people like, what they enjoy. And in fact, I’ve really enjoyed some of the comments people make. Like, they make really clever comments, or– things like that gives me a laugh. And that just keeps us going, doing our own thing. Um, and– I don’t know if there’s a specific one, but I also enjoy reading a lot of– ‘s not really criticism, but when people have a story to tell in their comments. Like what they went through, what they’re doing, how they got here, what things have been happening, you know—these things kind of help us– well, they inspire us to keep, kind of, doing what we do, so. I don’t know if I really answered that question, but yeah.

E: Yeah. Yeah, I can’t think of any negative comments of the top of my head as well, but I was just quickly scrolling through, just then. And there’s so many funny– you guys come up with the funniest comments. Someone was like, “If you can adjudicate slowly, you can adjudicate quickly,” ‘cause we took so long adjudicating that day. But yeah, I think that’s... yeah.

30:04

B: Are there any more questions? Uh, the pink.

Q6: Hello, Brett and Eddy, I specially flew here from Chengdu to see you, so I wanted to hear the both of you speak Chinese (Standard Mandarin)—

B: [groans]

Q6: I wanted to ask if you have any plans to tour Mainland China this year, and do you have anything you'd like to say to fans in Mainland China? Finally, I'd like to welcome you to Chengdu to look at pandas and eat hotpot.

E: Oooh, hotpot.

[B and E discuss inaudibly]

B: I only heard "eat hotpot".

Q6: Are there any cities you want to go to; any tour plans?

Someone: Any plans for tour in China?

Someone else: In Mainland China!

B: Oh, right!

E: Brett, I thought you were practicing your Chinese, why don't you understand?

Someone: And do you have any preference, for the cities?

31:08

B: Ohhh, okay okay. Do I have to answer in Chinese?

E: Yes, she said she wants to hear us speak Chinese.

B: Uhhh, I like to eat hotpot. I would like– I would also like to go to Ch– Chen...

Q6: Chengdu.

B: Chengdu.

E: Also, I want to—what was that city we went to last time—Guangzhou. We want to go to Guangzhou.

B: Oh, right. I forgot.

E: Yeah. We’re not sure, we were thinking we could do it next year, maybe, but the plans haven't been, like...

Someone(?): Confirmed.

E: Confirmed, yeah, we haven't confirmed them. We just have some ideas. Also, maybe Shanghai? I think Shanghai—

[fans cheer]

31:59

E: Oh wow, okay. Yeah. Because the both of us have been to Shanghai; Brett went with the Sydney Symphony.

B: No, it was to Beijing.

E: Oh, you didn't go to Shanghai?

B: We went to Beijing.

E: Oh, so it was Beijing.

B: Right. [fans laugh] Yeah.

E: Oh. Wait, so have you been to Shanghai?

B: Nope. [fans laugh] I want to go though.

E: I've been before, I joined a tour group with a friend. And I remember, was it Pudong, Puxi, or something? You know there's that river—

Fans: Huangpu River. [T/N: Pudong and Puxi are districts to the east and west of the Huangpu River respectively.]

E: Huangpu River. And so many people were taking wedding photos there! Everyone was—I remember there were weddings everyday. Yeah, there were like five people getting married, I'm like, holy moly. Yeah. So maybe Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou; we really want to go, yeah.

Q6: Is there anything you want to say to the fans (in Mainland China)?

E: Thank you for all your support, and we'll continue to practice 40 hours every day. Yeah, cool.

33:15

Like, it’s 5:10, maybe two, three more questions?

B: Okay.

E: Maybe it’ll go to 5:30 [inaudible]. Yeah, uh, few more questions, yeah.

B: Uh... okay.

Q7: Okay, I come from Guangdong, and I will [inaudible].

E: Oh, nice.

Q7: Yeah, and I will ask the third question from my friend, I’m a [inaudible]. She asked, is tomorrow allowed to take any pictures during the performance?

B: If you’re allowed to take pictures?

E: Taking photos during the performance...

B: I think so...?

Staff: Not during the performance.

B: Oh, okay. Yeah, not during the performance, but...

Staff: Afterwards.

B: But afterwards.

Q7: But afterwards. Okay, [inaudible], thank you.

34:06

B: Okay. Do you have another question? Uh... in the white [inaudible]. Yeah, third row, yeah, yeah.

Staff: Sorry, which one?

B: [unclear]

Q8: Uh, hi.

B: Hi.

Q8: I am [name].

E: Hello.

Q8: A casual question: so I am really into MBTI.

B: Oh!

Q8: So, I really want to–

E: Oh, I love MBTI too!

Q8: Yeah, yeah, I love– I really want to ask you guys, what is your latest MBTI test results?

E: Can you guess? What– Do you know what we are, in the past?

Q8: I? Uh, no, I think Eddy is E.

E: I’m E? Think I’m a E? Guess what we are!

B: Oh, if you know, don’t tell her! Just let her guess!

E: We’ve talked about it online before, so if you know, don’t tell her.

B: Don’t tell her, keep your mouth closed, keep quiet!

Q8: Yeah, but like, because MBTI changes, it always changes.

E: Oh, okay.

Q8: Yeah, so some– for some people it always changes, so I would really want to know that– did your MBTI change, of any sort?

35:04

B: Oh, I guarantee Eddy hasn’t changed. [fans laugh] It’s very potent. Okay, guess– do you want to guess Eddy’s first?

Q8: Uh, I?

B: Yep.

Q8: S?

E: Maybe? Just keep going– [unclear] it’s okay!

Q8: IS... F... Is it F? No, it’s T– No, I think it’s T. [laughs] Uh... IST... P?

E: ISTP? That’s not–

B: Pretty close!

E: That’s the yellow dude, right? ‘Cause I [unclear] their colours. Is it yellow, or is it blue?

Someone: Yeah, yellow.

E: Yellow, he’s yellow.

B: Yellow, okay.

E: ISTP... He’s the guy with the toolbox, I think... With the tools, the drill!

B: Yeah, the drill.

E: Yeah! Close, close—I’m actually a INTP.

Q8: Ahh, okay.

E: So I’m the purple scientist, who just like– yeah, just stays in my room and practice all day.

Q8: That’s good, that’s good.

36:12

E: Yeah. How about Brett? Can you guess Brett?

Q8: I... N...

B: [laughs] She’s on the spot.

Q8: Yeah, you put me on the spot!

B: IN...

Q8: FP?

B: Wow, you’re very close on both.

E: Close, close.

B: I’m actually ENFP.

Fans: Whoa......

B: Whoa, why is it like “whoa”?

E: You know what’s a really funny story about this, actually? Even Brett didn’t know he was extroverted, in the beginning. So when he first found out he was ENFP he’s like, “What?! I’m not extroverted!” And then our friend was like, “An introverted wouldn’t yell so loud.”

B: [laughs] I remember that.

E: Yeah, he was like, “What?! I’m not extroverted!”

B: Yeah, [unclear] “The introvert would not do that.”

E: Yeah.

B: And I think I was telling everyone I was...

E: You thought you were INFP, initially thought, too.

B: Yes, yeah. And I was telling everyone, I was like, “No, I’m introverted, I’m introverted!” And [unclear] was like, “...dude.”

E: [laughs]

B: “An introvert would not do that.”

E: Yeah. So you’re very close, actually, yeah.

Q8: That’s good, thank you–

37:20

B: What are– what are yours?

Q8: Oh, mine is–

E: Oh, I wanna guess!

Q8: Yeah, sure, guess!

B: [inaudible] gonna guess?

Q8: Yeah, I’m going to turn you back right on the spot!

E: Um... I think you are...

B: [quietly] How are you gonna guess?!

E: INFP.

Q8: No.

E: Aw, damn.

B: My turn, my turn. So I have one-in-fifteen chance.

E: Yeah.

Q8: Sixteen.

B: Sixteen?

Q8: Oh, no, sorry, fifteen, yeah, sorry.

B: No, one-in-fifteen, right? [to Eddy] You said INFP, right? No no–

E: Actually–

B: –no no no no no no no no let me– shhhh.

E: What colour do you think she is?

B: Uhh... ESFP.

Q8: Right. You’re–

[everyone cheering in shock]

38:08

E: Damn.

B: You know what gave it away?

E: What?

B: I think the way she dressed, it’s very outgoing. “Look at me, woo!”

E: ESFP... ESFP is the yellow one with brown [inaudible]

Q8: Yeah, it’s the Entertainer.

B: Wow...

E: Makes sense, makes sense. Nice.

B: Wow.

E: There’s uh, charades telepathy.

B: Do I get bubble tea?

E: [laughs]

Q8: Sure, sure! [laughs]

B: [laughs]

E: Nice.

Q8: Thank you!

E: Cool, thank you. That was a fun question.

B: [inaudible] we do one more question? Do we have time?

Staff: Maybe two more?

B: Two more, okay, cool. You can pick.

E: Um, alright. In the back, there?

38:51

Q9: Just a normal question: What’s your favourite movie, and why do you recommend it? Or which one do you think is the best use of classical music or violin?

E: Ooh, a movie.

B: That use–

E: Best use of classical music or violin.

B: Dude, that’s not a normal question, that’s a hard question. Whoa, that’s... Favourite movie...

E: That’s tricky. I’ll be honest, I don’t watch that many movies, so already that’s a bit hard for me.

B: Does anime count?

E: Yeah, I was gonna say, I watch anime. 

[fans say it counts]

E: Anime... but then there’s not that much anime with classical music. Obviously there’s Your Lie In April, there’s Nodame... They’re not really movies, they’re like series, right? What movie would you recommend, Brett?

39:59 

B: I’m still thinking, just– I’m not sure yet, I just– It’s– Okay. I have favourite movies. But the classical music part, it’s... I’m not sure I have one that sticks out.

E: Yeah.

B: But, uh... Grease– There’s always all time favourites, like the ones from... You guys know Inception? It’s been a while now, right?

E: Mhm. I like Inception.

B: The dream in a dream—that was pretty cool. In fact, actually, there was an anime that had that, called Paprika. Right, Paprika?

E: Mhm.

B: They had the same concept, with the dream in a dream. But in terms of classical music, I can’t really access that right away.

40:37

E: Yeah, nothing sticks out in mind, I just remember the bad ones, and like, not good ones. But, I mean—I actually haven’t watched this movie—I’ve heard The Pianist is really good. I’ve been meaning to watch it, but I haven’t gotten around to it. Apparently it’s really good, The Pianist.

B: Oh, The Pianist.

E: Yeah. But apparently, it, like, makes you cry. I hate watching movies that make me cry, ‘cause then I’m just like, a mess. The most recent movie that I watched that made me cry—have you guys seen Coco? (The) Disney movie? I know it’s not classical music, but it’s a very musical movie as well, and dude, that movie wrecked me. It was like, so sad, so.

B: I didn’t know that.

E: Right, ‘cause you think Disney’s like, just for little kids and stuff, but it was like, full deep. And it’s about music, and stuff, so. Yeah, that was a cool movie. I don’t know if that answers your question.

Q9: Did you guys watch the new Spider-Man movie?

B: Oh, I haven’t seen it yet.

E: Wait, which one is the new one? But is it the one with the three (Spider-Mans)?

Someone: Across the Spider-Verse, it’s the animation one.

E: Oh, no, I haven’t watched it. Is it good?

Q9: It’s really good.

E: Ooh, okay. Cool, we’ll keep that in mind. Thank you, thank you.

41:56

B: Oh, one more question. Uh... Okay, in the front.

Q10: Hi, I’m [name] and this my girlfriend, [name].

B: [laughs] You guys saw that? He just put his hands all like...

Q10: Well, we are both violinists, and we’ve been dating for, like, five months. And I just have one question, that, um... Do you guys, like, get competitive all the time?

B: Wait, wait a second. Is this– are you asking for a friend, or like...?

E:  Is this relationship counselling right now?

Q10: Friendship-wise, but like, do you get competitive all the time, and like, arguing who being the best– who being the better one? And if yes, how do you overcome it and deal with it?

B: So... does she ask?

Q10: I ask this question.

B: Ohhh.

E: Somehow I feel like the question’s not really about us.

[laughter]

 43:03

E: I don’t think we really do go competitive. Even like... okay, even back in uni, where we had some competitions where we’re against each other, we were never, like, competitive, you know? In the sense that we would still play for each other—like before our competition, we’d be like, “Hey, can you listen to my Mozart?” Or I’ll play my thing for you and just, you know, listen to each other, gives each other some feedback. I know there were definitely some students that were a bit more, like, weird about it. I remember, um...

B: Actually, for me it was similar. For the competitions, it was always about just making it through. Like, “Oh, you’re next, ohhhh.” I always thought about “Oh, who’s going first, who’s going second,” you know? And you can start playing these mind games with yourself.

E: Yeah.

B: So we don’t really get competitive. And honestly, I feel like I’ve never had the capacity to be competitive when I walk on stage. I just get really nervous, and I’m just trying to make it through the whole piece.

E: Yeah, same. It was almost like we’re both sharing the pain of going to this competition together, it’s like...

B: Yeah, but it’s not about us, so...

44:17

E: Oh yeah, that’s right, this question’s not about us. That is interesting though, actually. I have heard, you know, about musician couples. I don’t know, though. I don’t know what to say, Brett. Wise sensei, Yang-sensei. [laughs]

B: Okay, look—do you guys get competitive?

Q10: Sometimes.

B: Sometimes! Ohhh!

Q10′s girlfriend: Because we’re very, like, close in, like, level, and we’re gonna go to, like, university soon, and we’re both gonna study music.

B: Wait, so– but are you guys competing in the same university?

Q10g: Probably.

B: Probably? Have you got in the university yet?

Q10g: We have got in, and we both have full scholarships.

B: You both have full scholarships...

Q10g: And the same teacher.

E: Okay–

B: Whoa... Okay, this is– okay–

45:07

E: This is– okay, I have two ways of thinking about this, actually. I have the practical answer, which is interacting in normal day life. And then I have, like, the bigger picture—what I think about relationships.

So, I think, in life, meeting people that are genuinely close, that you form, like, life-long relationships with, is something that is so rare, and so meaningful. And that, to me, is always gonna be more precious than winning some competition. Like someone that you can trust, that you know that you guys will support each other. 

45:48

And so for me, like for people– like, for Brett, for example—like, I think it’s always that you should want the best for the other person, and you should also know that they want the best for you. And so, you know, if you see someone else exceed—even if, let’s say, for example, he won the Bach Prize and I didn’t, for example—even if in the moment I feel a little bit, like, jealous or envious—I’m not saying I did, I don’t remember how I felt, but if I did—I think at the end of the day, you should still commit. And there’s something you can practice, actually. Just practice being like, “No, I’m going to congratulate them, I’m gonna feel happy for them, because I want the best for them.” I think that’s really important, if you want to have a long–term– not even just relationship, like, a friendship, like a close friend, you know.

46:47

B: Yeah, I think you made a good point, like– Envy consumes you, if you’re not careful. Because it’s all inside you, you know. And there’s nothing to gain from envy—there’s literally nothing there, it’s just– you harm yourself inside. And it’s like Eddy said—yeah, envy happens? That’s why it’s one of—what’s that, like—seven deadly sins, or something. Like it happens, but it’s part of us to try and practice a way out of it, you know.

So you might feel it. It’s okay to feel it, you don’t have to be like, “I feel envy. Oh my god, I’m a bad person. Oh my god.” Just kind of be like, “Okay, well, it’s there, but I’m not gonna act on it. And I shouldn’t respond to it. I just look at it.” It’s like, “Oh, hi, envy. How’re you going? I’m going back to practice.” Just ignore it. And then, what Eddy said—it’s like, you practice congratulating the other person.

E: Mm.

B: So– and that’s– You’ll find that’ll help you in the long run, because then both of you, or who you’re congratulating, will help each other. And they say, “If you wanna go fast, you go by yourself; if you wanna go far, you work as a team.” So that’s really important.

47:52

E: Yeah. Even in the– I mean, even... Actually, that’s a really good point, right, like, when you’re young, it might feel like it’s just about who plays the best, who practices the most, who wins competitions. But actually, later, when you’re actually touring—and y’know, we meet a lot of soloists as well—who you know does matter a lot. And even if you’re the best player, if you just piss everyone off ‘cause you’re so competitive, no one will want to work with you. So that’s really important. Um, and–

B: He’s just– [laughs]

E: [laughs] Okay, but– [laughs] on a more day-to-day, practical level, I think—‘cause like, I have heard stories about this—I think the main thing is if someone else is practicing, don’t give advice unless they ask for it.

B: Oh yeah, don’t do that.

E: Don’t just walk into the room, be like, “Yo yo, I think your B-flat’s a bit out of tune, I think you should uh, work–” Like, don’t do that, don’t do that!

B: [laughs] [unclear]

48:53

E: It’s funny, though, ‘cause I’ve– we know, like, musicians that are musician couple—it’s a really common thing—and the insecurity... I have heard from– especially from couples where maybe one of them is more ahead in their career than the other one, it can feel like–

B: Or they’re in a string quartet.

E: String quartet is a big one as well. So, it’s– yeah, it’s not–

B: Oh, you guys in a string quartet?

E: Like it sounds funny, but it’s actually a tough challenge, and I hope– I wish you guys the best. Yeah.

Q10: Thank you.

E: Cool.

B: Alright, I think that’s it, right? Thank you, everyone!

E: Thank you, everyone, thank you!

49:34

Q&A session ends here. remainder of the video contains audio from the photo session, and op’s conversations, which will not be included here.

[cinemastyles-blog]

Iced Vanilla Latte

Summary: A Wattpad request by madxxstyles - “Also maybe rich Harry and y/n who meet somewhere (coffee shop, restaurant, shops, etc.) and hookup after first date??Or something like that Imao”

Warnings: SMUT18+, strong language, first date sex, quick and dirty, unprotected sex, fingering, mentions of alcohol, fluffy beginning, filth ending

Master

HARRY’S HOUSE HARRY

“Hi, can I get a large iced vanilla latte please?” You stood at the counter, patiently waiting for the barista to give you your total.

“Four sixty five.”

You nod and dig into your purse, only to find that you don’t have you wallet, “Shoot. I’m sorry, I must have lef-“

“I got it.”

You look up to see a tall, man in sunglasses with a freshly showered look, “You don’t have to.”

“It’s okay.” He smiles at you and hands the barista his card. You blush, slightly embarrassed, “Thank you. I’m so, so sorry.” You look back at the line and let out a slight sigh.

He turn to you after ordering and pushes his sunglasses up on to the top of his head, revealing his captivating green eyes, “How about you make it up to me with a date?”

You’re kind of caught off guard at first, no man has ever been this forward with you.

You feel a connection with this man, so you smile and nod, “I’d like that.” You hold out your hand, “Y/n.”

He places his hand in yours gently, “Harry.”

“Large iced vanilla latte.” The barista slides the drink on the counter. You smile and grab it, “Thank you again.”

“Where are you off to? Maybe I can walk with you?” He smiles and steps aside so the other person can order.

“I’m just heading to the office, do some paperwork for my boss.” You nod quickly, ��But yeah, it’s two blocks that way if you want to walk with me.”

He smiles, obviously captivated by your stupidity, “Sorry. I seen to be having a terrible day.”

He chuckles and shakes his head, “We all have those.”

He grabs his coffee and leads you out of the shop, “So. Y/n. Do you live around here?”

You sip your coffee and nod, “Yeah, born and raised.”

“Really, that’s nice.” He takes a drink of his coffee and you look over at him, “So I’m obviously going to ask, you’re not from America are you?”

He shakes his head, “You got me.” He laughs, “Yeah, no. Im from England. Born in Redditch, raised in Holmes Chapel.”

“Neat.” You raise your eyebrows and nod, “I’ve always wanted to visit there. England, I mean.” You close your eyes and shake you head.

He probably thinks I’m some crazy person who’s escaped from the looney bin, you think as you try to ga your nerves.

“Maybe you can one day.” He glances over at you and smiles slightly, “If you ever need a tour guide I’m sure we can work something out.”

You smile and nod, “Sounds like a date.”

He stops and points to you, “Speaking of.”

“Oh yeah, I owe you one for this coffee.” You hold up the half nervously drunken cup of coffee and smile.

“When are you free next?” Harry tilts his head, “Right now my schedule is pretty flexible so I can work around yours if need be.”

You look up and tap you cup as you think, “Is tomorrow too soon?”

He shakes his head and smiles, “Tomorrow is perfect. I can meet you somewhere, pick you up, doesn’t matter to me.”

“I can meet you at Hilton’s Brewery? They have a bunch of delicious food and drinks if you’re into that kinda thing.”

He nods, “Sounds good. Does six work?”

“Six works.”

——

You take a deep breathe, smoothing out your dress as you walk up to the doors. You stop when you notice Harry sitting on the bench outside, “Oh, gosh. Am I late!” You look at your phone and he stands up, “No, no. I’m just early. Or I was.”

He laughs and runs a hand through his hair, “You’re perfect. Right on time.”

You smile and blush at his words, “Alright, then. Shall we?” You point to the door and he nods as he opens it, “After you.”

You walk in and Harry follows. The host seats you and leaves you to look over the menu.

“What do you recommend?” Harry asks glancing up at you, “I’ve never been here before.”

“Well, harry. I can assure you that the fries here are to die for.” You smile and tilt your head, “Also, the raspberry mash cocktail is..” you kiss your fingers, “Chefs kiss.”

“What ever you say. I’m trusting you.” He smiles and goes back to looking over the menu.

“My mate Niall, from back home, just did something with Guinness along with his mate Lewis in Ireland I think.” Harry nods, “Documentary or something like that.”

“Really? That’s awesome. I’ve also wanted to go there too.”

“I’m sure Niall can hook us up with a tour, that’s where he’s from.” He smiles and you smile back at him.

A little while later the waiter comes up and takes your guy’s orders, “I’ll be right back with those drinks for you.”

“Thank you.” You smile and look back at Harry, “So I have a question, and you don’t have to answer if it’s too personal or whatever.”

He smiles slightly, “Hit me.”

You look at him and laugh slightly, “The bag you were carrying yesterday.. what do you have in that thing?”

He smiles fully and shakes his head, “Oh gosh, we’ll I just came from the gym at the time, so gym stuff, I guess a book might be in there, too. I don’t know.” He laughs nervously and shakes his head.

“If it makes you feel any better, I carry everything in my purse.”

“Everything but your wallet.” He snickers and glances up at you.

Your mouth drops and you point at him, “Okay, Harry. You got me there, Mr.”

“That’s okay. If you didn’t forget your wallet, you probably would have left before I even had the chance to say hello.” He sips his water and shrugs, “So I’m glad you forgot your wallet if you ask me.”

You smile and nod, “Yeah, me too.”

——

As dinner is coming to an end, and the drinks you and Harry got to try settle in, it’s time to leave and you make your way outside.

You stand there for a good minute, taking in the fresh hair instead of the hot air that filled the place.

“That was nice.” Harry says turning towards you, “I had a great time tonight.”

You smile and nod, “Yeah, Harry. Me too.”

“Do you want me to walk you home?”

You bite your lip, still smiling, “Please.”

You lead him in the direction of your apartment and look around at the night life filled streets, “It can be so nice here sometimes.”

“I caught onto that. I like walking around. Good for clearing the head.” Harry looks over at you, taking in the beauty of you enjoying the walk.

You look over at him, “What?”

He shakes his head and smiles, “Nothing.”

You smile and look down. Your hand brushes against Harry’s as you walk next to him and he doesn’t hesitate to interlock his fingers with yours.

You squeeze his hand, not wanting to let go. You rest your other hand on his arm and head on his shoulder as you walk with him.

You two enjoy the company of each other as you stroll on home.

“This is me.” You smile and step in front of Harry as you point to the apartment building. You look up at him, “Would you.. want to come inside for a little?”

“Only if you’re certain of that.”

“One hundred percent.” You smile and watch as he smiles, “Alright then, lead the way, love.”

You smile and pull him with you up the steps to the front doors. You make your way up to your place and unlock the door.

You push it open and Harry holds it as you walk in, “Thank you.” You smile and hand your keys and purse on the hook next to it.

“It’s not much but, at least it looks clean.” You laugh and take your heel off, walking them to sit them around the corner of your bedroom door.

“This is very nice, y/n.” Harry smiles and takes his jacket off, laying it over the chair.

“Would you like a drink? Something?” You ask as you open the fridge. He nods, “A water is fine.”

You grab a water and walk over to him. His hand brushes against yours and you look up at him. Both of you having the same idea.

The water falls to the floor and he pulls you into him with a slight force. Your body slams against his as his hands go to your neck and your lips move in the absolute most perfect sync.

You moan against his lips, sliding your hands up his chest, gripping the collar of his shirt.

“You’re so beautiful.” He breathes out.

You smile and step back, slipping your dress over your head and tossing it to the floor. You walk him back to the couch and he sits down. You straddle his lap, your lips moving back onto his.

His hands slide up and down your bare body, his fingers drag down your back, “Fuck.” He moans as you grind down on his growing bulge.

He undoes his shirt and slips his arms out, his hands going right back to your waist. You reach down, kissing down his neck as you fumble to get his pants undone.

He helps you and pushes them down. You free his cock and he reaches down, sliding your panties over and rubbing your folds with his fingers.

You grip his shoulders and moan out, “Fuck that feels good.”

He bites his lip, watching your face change as he plunges two fingers into you, curling them.

His lip part as you moan out his name, grinding your hips down onto his hand, “Fuck, fuck.”

“Gonna cum for me?” His fingers dig into your skin, “Fuck.” His head tilts back into your hand as it slides onto the back of his head. Your fingers tangle into his hair and pull, earning a moan from him.

You clench around his fingers, whining as his thumb runs against your clit, “Shit, Harry.”

You push your hips down onto his fingers, squeezing your thighs together as you cum.

He guides you through your high and pulls his hand out, flipping you over so your back is against the couch, “That was so fucking hot.” He groans as his lips smash against your.

His hand slides down and pushes your leg open, gripping his cock so he can align it up with your pussy. He pushes the tip in, gasping slightly as he moves his hand up to your cheek and thrusts in.

You let out a moan and wrap you leg around his waist, “You feel so good.” You lips part as you moan and Harry lays his thumb on your bottom lip.

He watches as you suck his thumb, smiling as you tilt your head back.

He smirks, “You’re too good to be true.”

You pull him in for a kiss, wrapping an arm around his neck. His hand slide does your body, gripping your thigh as he thrusts deeper into you.

You moan against his lips and pull him closer with your leg, “I’m so close again.”

“Yeah, yeah, me too, baby.” He nods and pushes his tongue against yours. You clench around him, arching your back and pressing your chest against his, “Fuck.” You gasp and dig your nails into his shoulder, dragging them down his back as you cum around his cock.

“Shit.” He groans and buries his face into your neck, nipping and sucking at the skin until his thrusts suddenly get sloppy and he pulls out, stroking himself as he cums on your lower belly.

You lay there panting, watching his face scrunch up and relax before he opens his eyes and smiles at you.

You smile up at him and brush hair from his face.

He grabs his shirt and wipes you off, “I think I got it all.” You bat the air, “we can get a shower then.”

“We?” He asks with a smirk.

“Yes.. we.” You sit up and lean over to grab a blanket, “You don’t think you’re getting away that easy do you?” You laugh slightly and look over at him.

A smile rests happily on his lips, “I was hoping you’d say that.”

You lean over and kiss him and he moves down to lay with you on the couch. And to think, It all started with a large iced vanilla latte and now the rest is history.

——

Thank you for the request! I hope you like it!

If you have any others, you can -> send them here

[leighsartworks216]

Oh, if it’s songs you need to listen to, then boy howdy, I got a request for you!

In lieu of the absolute tragedy I’ve asked for in the past, perhaps we could do a Warfstache x Reader based on Livin’ It Up On Top where the reader is still the DA, but it’s more of a happier piece where the DA returns to the egos after each of Mark’s adventures, and Warfstache heads the celebration for it?

~ 🌺

I am SO sorry this took so long. My brain unexpectedly switched from hyperfixating on egos to like 4 different fandoms and it hasn't switched back to egos yet

This isn't really based on the song (I couldn't get into it sorry) but you've been waiting so so long and my brain is kinda mush so here's headcanons on Wilf welcoming you back home after an adventure w Mark instead

Warnings: mentions of food and drink but it's not specified what

Masterlist

AO3

Acting as a main character in one of Mark’s stories is exhausting

Esp when you weren’t trained to be an actor

But you weren’t really an acting DA anymore after “the incident we don’t talk about”, so Mark dragging you along on make believe adventures was the best option

Sometimes you’d be gone for a week, other times you’d be gone for months

(One time you were gone for a whole year)

When you would be back was always relayed to the Egos, but sometimes Wilford knew before anybody else

They would get the message you’re returning tomorrow and Wilford has already been planning for a week off a “hunch”

He always makes sure your favorite food is prepared - everything from snacks to dessert

He sets up banners and streamers and large stereos, usually with help from the Jims

The moment you step into the door, you’re greeted with your favorite music, favorite food and drinks, and the man who planned it all pulling you into his arms in a bone-crushing hug

Wilf always calls you cute little nicknames too like “sugarplum”, “sweetheart”, etc etc

When you’re finally released from the hug, he always asks how the adventure was and gave you absolute free reign to rant about Actor to him

All the while he’s looking you up and down, making sure you’re not hurt or actually too tired to have a party

He doesn’t even know he does it, he’s brimming with too much energy to notice

You’re never hurt, thankfully (God knows what he would do to Actor if you were)

But if he sees you’re too tired for the party he set up, he slings an arm around your shoulders and in a snap you’re both upstairs in your room, already dressed in PJs

The food and drinks (or maybe a copy of them? You still weren’t sure) also managed to find their way spread along your desk

Wilf would act as a little servant, bringing you drinks and food (if you wanted any) and making sure you were totally comfortable

He always beelines right for the dessert, cursed with the world’s worst sweet tooth

And you’ll hang out, mindlessly talking about anything and everything you missed or experienced, sometimes sharing bites of each other’s food

Everybody else (who cared to take part in the celebration) could rock it up downstairs all the while you relaxed upstairs

If you weren’t too tired from your long excursion, Wilf would drag you along into the party

He’d reintroduce everyone like you were meeting them for the first time, but everyone would play along and welcome you back

You’d have to say hi to Dark later; he hates parties of any kind, and Wilford can only drag him into one so many times

Some of the egos would give you hugs, but if Wilford thought they were lingering too long, he’d drag you to the next person and glare at whoever the offender was (He’s jealous shh don’t tell him)

You could eat, drink, dance, whatever until the sun came up

But Wilford would always stick close by, prepared to carry you upstairs and tuck you in when the exhaustion finally hit

Because no matter how much he loves parties, he loves you more

---

Tag List:

@writeawaythepain

@hyperfixat

@cryptidjester

@your-voice-is-mellifluous

[cfs-crohns-colitis-warrior]

Happy Valentines Day everyone! Sending love to all my chronically ill peeps!

I’ve never had a reason to celebrate this day before, but this year I finally have my first boyfriend and I was able to go to his house after he finished work and spend a few hours with him. If only I could’ve stayed overnight but he has to be up super early for work tomorrow so I’ll have to wait for Friday night to share a bed with him again!

Living with a stoma, you’d think I’d always worried about finding someone who would love me, however my bag never worried me in that regard. I did still worry I wouldn’t find anyone, but it was more down to my other health issues that hold me back, whereas my bag helps me go further.

I know for a lot of people having a stoma presents issues in regards to finding someone and intimacy, and I just thought I’d share a couple of things in the hopes it could help.

First off, being single with a stoma can make you worry you’ll never find anyone, but the right person will not care at all, and will embrace it and you. I was on a dating app for like 3 years before I met my boyfriend, and it took so long because I’m a little picky, and conversations with decent guys usually fizzled out after a little while and I was struggling to find the energy and/or courage to meet up with people.

Part of that was that the first guy I was meant to meet up with kept cancelling and messing me about, so I was always kind of chatting to other people but hoping that would work out. Then I actually met up with a guy and it just felt so uncomfortable. Anyway, in the end I figured the best way was to FaceTime a guy before meeting, because at least then it was less energy from me and easier to see if things clicked without having to meet up.

When I first FaceTimed my boyfriend I had a guaranteed out because I had food on the way, but in the end I didn’t want to have to hang up. We met up a week or so later after he got back from a holiday and got together officially that very weekend.

With him, I told him fairly early on that I have a stoma bag, and he was fine with it. With anyone else on the app I also told them early, as long as the conversation allowed for the topic, and I can’t recall anyone rejecting me because of that specifically. The truth is, there will always be things about you that people can reject, whether it’s a stoma bag, another health condition, or just your personality (pretty sure my personality is what put off almost every guy who stopped talking first).

Anyway, the point is, even if you’re worried about being rejected because of your stoma bag, or any other chronic illness/disability, you have to try not to let it hold you back and just get it out there. Like I said before, the right person will not care and may even love you more for it!

As for intimacy, well, a stoma bag can make intimacy a little awkward, but my tips are to empty it beforehand, try and fold it up out the way if you’re able to, and otherwise, just try and focus on everything else and forget about the bag! When I was first intimate with my boyfriend, my bag didn’t even cross my mind! I was too busy thinking about everything else that was happening at the time, and not once had my stoma bag held me back when I’ve been intimate with my boyfriend.

So, all in all, I guess my advice would be to tell people early on, and try and forget about it and not worry too much about it when it comes to intimacy etc. Of course, that’s much easier said than done, especially for some, but I promise you, you deserve love no matter what, and the person will love you regardless of any issues you have!

[teen-adulthoodguide]

Documentation in the workplace is extremely important!

Summarized from this post

Be careful what you put into an email. It never really goes away and can be used against you. But it can also be a powerful tool for workplace fairness.

You should summarize conversations for basically anything, but especially ones with your supervisor that include:

your supervisor asking you to do something illegal or against company policy

your supervisor asking you to stop doing something that is perfectly legal (like discussing wages)

something that could go wrong, and your supervisor will deny that they told you to do it

your supervisor wants to push back a project

your supervisor wants to temporarily change something like your schedule or tasks

Sample email snippets:

"I just want to make sure that I understood correctly that you want me to do [something that is not allowed by law or policy]" Quite often, once they see it in writing, they will change their mind about having you do it. If not, you have documentation.

"I'm happy to help out temporarily, but just want to make sure I understand correctly that I will get my old schedule back after [set time] as you promised."

"I want to clarify the discussion we had earlier - you told me to focus on Project B to the exclusion of Project A for the next two weeks, even if that means Project A will miss its deadline; is that correct?"

What do I do when the boss doesn’t reply to my confirmation email, then says that they never approved the project delay?

(For this to work you have to be militant about sending summary emails and firm with coworkers and supervisors that you will be documenting project plans via email, but once they're used to your habits it's worth the work)

In person or over the phone you say "that doesn't match with my memory of the project but let me check my records and I'll get back to you about what happened on this project."

Write an email to the boss

CC: work group, team lead, project partner, direct supervisor, etc.

(Depending on severity of problem) BCC: your personal email

Sample text: "Hi Boss, I'm trying to resolve some confusion here. After our conversation about priority projects on [date] I reached out to you for confirmation of these details (see attached outlook item) and didn't receive an update to the timeline since that communication. I have been working from the agenda we discussed (summarized in attached outlook item from [date]) in absence of further direction. Do you have a copy of your response updating the changes or correcting mistakes in my summary? It's possible that I didn't see your email and I'd like to identify where a communication was missed so that we can avoid issues like this in future projects."

If you don't have this kind of job but someday you'd might: start practicing.

After a casual conversation with friends, write up a brief synopsis of what you discussed & agreed to. (...Do not email this to friends unless you have their agreement that this would be a fun group project.)

"A, B, and C had a brief meeting about food options after the big game. We decided on pizza, with A and B agreeing to contribute X dollars each, and C agreeing to contribute Y dollars and also bring soda. A will call for pizza on the day of the game and schedule it for delivery at 8:30 pm."

"A, B and C discussed movie options. A wanted something light and fun; B wanted something scifi; C was fine with anything but horror. Nobody wanted superheroes. Decided on Lost Space Wanderers which opened last weekend; C agreed to research theatre options and report tomorrow."

[laura-apexart]

DAY 26th 8.2.23

It’s been a process to get to see a synagogue 

Unlike the other religious institutions, where I could just walk in, I have to coordinate and send my passport for security reasons and then I am given Vivianna’s number to contact and she gives me a time and the address. I notice the building appears to have the same marble stone on the outside as fragmentos —yellow, cream, not recognizable as a Synagogue until you look up and see a kind of Star of David latticework on the windows of the building inset behind the wall.

We meet at 1:45 and she welcomed me warmly and takes me first inside a smaller temple that’s mostly gray with a skylight of stained glass. We sit down in the wooden chairs to chat-she asks if I’m Jewish and I tell her a bit about myself.

She explains the layout of the space. We are currently sitting in the chairs directly around the Bemah which is in the center of the temple because it is an orthodox Sephardic

Synagogue, and because no one is currently praying we can sit in the center.  Everything is always built, directed eastward toward Jerusalem (where the Torah scripture and scrolls are stored). She points out that since men pray three times a day they get to sit around the Bemah whereas women are not required to pray three times a day so they do not have as much seating and they sit at the back in two rows close to the door which are separated by a low wooden fence. 

There are only around 3,500 practicing jews in Bogota and 4 synagogues (with a few smaller ones in schools). The Jews that do practice and observe are largely orthodox. I ask about anti-semitism. She points out that the Star of David is on the inside of the door -it’s not advertised but people are generally accepting and respectful. Later I will go home and notice that the tiles of the floor at my Airbnb have a pattern with a striking resemblance to the swastika –was this intentional?---which is very upsetting and hard to believe, and makes me feel very naive, and I try to focus on the shapes that the negative space makes. 

She gives me a tour of the rest of the complex-a big interior courtyard with the bones of a Sukkah, the bigger synagogue that is having some work done, in this one the chairs are folding like in a movie theater and there are big crystal chandeliers which prompts me to notice the balcony where the women are separated from the men to sit and look down, participate from a far.  There is a small kosher grocery store with essential provisions, a playground, community center, it is a whole world unto itself. Then she takes me to see the mikvah —where women go before their wedding —it’s a whole process, you have to remove all nail polish and jewelry and clean dirt from fingernails etc. and then each month after their period, some women also go. I ask about menopause.  I ask why it must be fresh, running water, bc scripture says so. 

There is a smaller mitzvah for cleaning dish wear too.  

In the evening I walk to Dame Tu Lengua where I am supposed to go to Kitchen Club and learn about cooking Cuban food/ The cooking class is canceled because the teacher has Covid so I walk up the mountain to go to Diosa bakery where I had incredible cookies at the liberate the coca festival. The neighborhood seems fancier and full of good looking restaurants. I get an assortment of baked goods to share and bring on the hike tomorrow.

[kurdistann]

Chapter 4: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

The next day, Tuesday, we were supposed to go meet the Prime Minister of the KRG. Jack and I played hooky from this and instead wanted to explore the bazaar in the “real Erbil”. We wanted to experience breakfast outside the hotel, and really dive into this old part of town. So, Jessica, Dilan, and Natasha (friends of Azad’s) took us first to a local breakfast spot where they ordered up naan, cheese, yogurt, etc. and we set at a little table in an offshoot area of the market. Now this was diving in! Not only did Jessica, Dilan and Natasha order breakfast, but they paid for it, over our protestations. You’re our guest, they said. These 3 ladies were such incredible guides and hostesses, I am forever grateful to them how they revealed the essence of this city. By the end of the week they too would be my Kurdish sisters.

It was so fun to be where the locals were. We walked around the bazaar, bought some manna from heaven, a pistachio, white candy, and had fun with the vendors. I loved it when we would pass a stall, and one of the gals would say “you must taste this” or, “these chickens on the rotisserie are the best”, or “here they have the best pickled vegetables you’ve ever had". (Evidently they pickle all their vegetables and it’s very popular). We loved hearing about their lives here too. There is one 24/7 restaurant called Pacha. The Pacha market serves a serious protein concoction of organ meats, liver, etc., and it’s Azad‘s favorite place. They actually took him for his birthday there at 4 AM, their busiest time! It sounds gross to me but supposedly it’s really good. In our anticipation and excitement, we said, yeah, let’s go there tomorrow! 5 AM! Yeah! At the time we thought we could do everything…

The bazaar, to locals, is an area, not just the covered stalls. Jessica showed it all to us, and we walked around for hours. There’s the beautiful fruit and nut section you see in the photos of Erbil, and I loved all that, but the most fascinating part to me was the parts section. In Erbil, you fix everything, you don’t throw it away. For example, her Vitamix broke, and she brought it to this section of the market and they fixed the motor for four dollars. We walked past stalls with just computer boards, thousands of computer boards. Another stall had old TVs. All those flatscreen TVs that we throw away? – they fix ‘em. Stalls with motors, all kinds of motors, fans, equipment parts and pieces and I didn’t know what they were, but if you had any handyman in you, this was your heaven on earth. I also love that they try and fix everything before throwing it away.

Another street – I’ll call it the housewares street, had the biggest aluminum soup pots you have ever seen. You could literally fit a person in one of these pots! Jessica said she might have to come back and get one of these bigger pots for her refugee camp, an NGO she and her husband run. NOTE: she would want the pot for food, not to put a person in.

There were two great things about walking around the bazaar, which is a huge area. One is we crossed over from apprehension to totally comfortable. We felt safe and secure after this day of mingling with the people of Erbil. While the armed guard at the hotel may have caused us concern, it was the actual people themselves that erased that concern and put us totally at ease. Jack said he felt that if any bad actor, say, tried to kidnap you here, 500 men would stop them.

The other fun aspect was my attempt to communicate in Sorani with the locals. I had been speaking the little Sorani I had learned in the days prior, while in the official meetings. When I would say to them in Sorani “Hello, my name is Ann, it’s so nice to meet you, we are so happy to be here, thank you for your hospitality,” their eyes would light up. They absolutely loved it, and I could tell by their reaction how much they appreciated my efforts. Visitors to Erbil typically don’t try to learn their language, evidently. We just expect them to learn ours. They so appreciated that I had taken the time to learn just a little, and they were so graceful because I know I messed up many, many times, and probably said some crazy things! For example, the phrase “This was so nice“ sounds almost exactly like “We were so nice“, haha. I am so very sure I said “We are so nice” to whomever had just hosted me instead of “This is so nice”! But, I would always follow up that phrase with “Thank you for your hospitality“ in case I screwed up. The bottom line is a little bit of effort on my part went a long way. In fact, there were several times when we were trying to communicate, and the Americans actually asked me to help communicate with someone who spoke zero English. And it worked!

We stopped and had tea with Jessica, and it was wonderful and fascinating to hear about her life in Erbil and the daily intricacies. The power goes out several times a day for maybe a minute or so. Her 5 kids yell, “power’s out!” each and every time. When it happened to us later, we looked at her and said, “power’s out!”. You have to drink bottled water. I think she said that dysentery was quite common. Many of the women get nose jobs. Most of the women have their babies by scheduled C-section for various reasons. (Jessica had all five of hers naturally, in a pool of water). Many of the taxi drivers are retired Peshmerga or retired Asaiid security forces. There are cameras everywhere, so people know bad actors. Peshmerga checkposts are dotted throughout the countryside, trying to keep ISIS from threatening them again, as they did in 2014. In her refugee work, she said, most of the adults devolve into an entitlement mentality, with zero gratitude for their efforts, but she keeps plugging away because she’s doing it for the refugee children, who have no other options. She makes her own essential oils, and is what I would call a true granola girl. She said she does have trouble finding pure Shea butter, which confused me because I thought we were experiencing purity in all of the products… OK maybe my Pollyanna view is skewed a bit.

And at this point, I have to discuss the bathrooms. Skip this paragraph if you don’t want to hear about this. Basically the bathrooms are a squatty potty with a hose to spray yourself off, so the floors are totally wet. Even the nicest restaurants may not have a western toilet. You would flush the squatty potty, but you had to remember to take toilet paper with you in many instances. We were always “relieved“ when we saw one of the stalls was indeed a western toilet. For the life of me, I don’t understand, healthwise, why you wouldn’t choose toilets over a spray. Might cut down on the dysentery problem.

That afternoon we caught up with the rest of the Sister Cities folks at the bazaar. Three of us girls all had custom dresses made with fabric from the one of the stalls. Our “local team“ was there with us at all times to help, because the tailor spoke zero English. I mentioned Jack ordered his shirts, and they came out really nice… But my dress is kind of a mess and not at all what I requested. The women wear their clothes so huge, that the tailor wasn’t even going to put a zipper in! And even though I described how fitted I wanted it, well in the end he added about 6 inches on each side! Guess he’s not used to making form fitting women’s dresses. Oh, well… I’ll have to have it re-made here in Nashville.

Another must-see in Erbil is the Jalil Khayat Mosque. Here you had to wear a head covering. Beautiful structure and there is no way a camera can capture it’s beauty, but we tried. We had to run in and out real quickly because they had just issued the “call to prayer” so their service would start soon.

Dinner that night was at a local’s home in “new” Erbil. It was set up by Kanaan, an elected representative who’d come to Nashville last summer, whom we all remember as the handsome guy who sang a Kurdish song at Becky Sharpe’s reception at her home. He is a rising star politically with the KRG (Kurdish Regional Government). We were in a really nice residential area of gorgeous, huge homes, and the street scene is what I imagine Dubai nightlife to be: upscale cafés, bustling activity, festoon -lit restaurants, a typical cosmopolitan international city. We didn’t go into any of these cafés or bars, but it was indicative of the two Erbils: old and new. We’ve been at the old one all day, now we were at the new.

Our hosts were a young family, Naz and her husband, a doctor. Naz was a small woman, juggling a toddler and a five-year-old. She also worked as a banker, and I gathered quickly that she was from a well to do family. We ended up sitting together at dinner, and she came across as a tiny dynamo. I told her the biggest obstacle, in my humble opinion, to the Sister Cities exchanges and a developing relationship was the media portrayal of Iraq over the past 25 years. Of course, Kurdistan is not Iraq, culturally, but most people don’t know that. So, I told her, to me, the media is our problem. She said “well, maybe it’s time for a PR campaign“. I knew right then and there that this lady is a problem solver and she has or can access the resources to get things done.

I think I made a big faux pas, though. The live music started, they had a famous Kurdish singer, and the music they were playing just beckoned for dancing. The Kurdish dancing is really just a big circle. You join hands and do a simple step advancing the circle. Kurdish line dancing, if you will. I tapped Naz on the shoulder and said, let’s get this dance going, we started a dance for about 15 seconds before she was told to sit down.. Not sure why, but I sat down too. Later, Omid, my personal pesh, started the dance, and we all joined in. (Naz did not, interestingly.)  It went on for 30 to 45 minutes, the longest song I’ve ever heard! The governor and Kanaan and the Kurdish gals and a few of us Americans participated. It was really fun.

Naz gave us books by her father. I have no clue what it says, but anticipate it to be a pretty serious work. I thanked her profusely in Sorani. I had brought hostess gifts from Nashville, hemstitched cocktail napkins (or tea napkins if you’re in Iraq), embroidered with Tennessee flowers. But tonight I’d given my hostess gift to the wrong host – Kanaan‘s wife!  Another faux pas on my part, and another hostess gift I’ll need to send out when I get home.

Jack estimates the homes in this area to be $25 million. But, the bathroom situation? You got it, a squatty potty from what he saw. (of course he didn’t see the whole house.)

[survey--s]

497.

Was there anything that you planned to do today, but didn’t? Nah, I didn’t really have anything planned for today and I’ve pretty much done nothing, lol. I’ve spent most of my day messing about online and watching “Meet, Marry, Murder” on Netflix, lol.

Is there anyone you interact with often on social media but not in person? Sure, mostly family and friends who don’t live nearby.

What colour box does your favourite cereal come in? Orange - I don’t really eat cereal often, but I do love Crunchy Nut lol.

Do you have any plates, dishes, mugs etc. with pretty illustrations on them? No, not really. Most of them are plain or they have hearts/polka dots on them.

Does anywhere on your body currently hurt, or feel sore? For once, nothing is hurting or aching! I suspect that’ll change when I go back to work tomorrow but for now I’ll make the most of it, lol.

What is your favourite snack to eat with a hot beverage? Okay, I had the most AMAZING peanut butter and jam blondie on Friday with a cup of coffee and it was incredible, lol. Generally I don’t have snacks with hot drinks but I do love a bit of cake with my coffee sometimes.

Is there any advice you have been given, that sticks in your mind? "Don’t sweat the small stuff”. I used to think it was really trite bollocks but it’s SO true and makes so much sense.

What’s the nicest advice you have ever been given about love or relationships? I don’t really remember getting much advice about that kind of thing.

Do you own any adult colouring books? What kind(s) do you like? I have like 5-6 of them but I haven’t used them since lockdown. They’re just the ones with random patterns on them - Mandalas and stuff like that.

When was the last time you got some new headphones? About eighteen months ago and I think I’ve used them twice lol.

Is there a lamp in your living room? What colour is its shade? No - we have two regular overhead lights and then there are warm white fairy lights going all the way round the room which I have on whenever I’m home.

Do you know anyone whose name starts with the letter X? Not nowadays, but I went to school with a Xavier, and I also have second-cousin called Xavier, but we’ve never met.

Have you eaten any rice or pasta today? Yeah, I had chicken korma with rice for lunch.

Name a food that you dislike the texture of. Bruised bananas.

Which of your friends do you confide in the most? Probably Emma.

Have you ever fallen out of love with someone?  Sure, these things happen - people change and things happen.

If you have pets, do you talk to them? Duh, lol. I mean, are there really people out there who don’t talk to their pets?

Are there any TV shows that you strongly dislike, but others seem to love? Game of Thrones. I’ve tried to watch it about five times but I get bored after the first season and give up lol.

Is there anything you haven’t done lately, that you’d like to do soon? I need to get some new clothes, but I’m holding out until next weekend as I’ll have been paid properly then.

Have you experienced any kind of food cravings lately? Roast potatoes.

Have you watched or read the news today? No - I just get my news via social media and reddit.

Describe the cover illustration of the book closest to you. There aren’t any books within arms reach of me.

Are there any take-away or fast food places close to your house? Yeah, there’s a chippy about 50 metres up the road, lol. Our town also has another chippy, a Chinese, a pizza/kebab/burger place and an Indian place. Most of the regular restaurants do takeaway too.

Is there anything happening tomorrow, that you’re looking forward to? Nah, I’m back at work tomorrow and I really CBA lol. I’m sure it’ll be fine once I’m back though.

[kinetic-elaboration]

January 11: This Week So Far

I made it through the first two tough days of this week, and to Wednesday, which is just a Normal Day. I am such a creature of habit, I get all worked up about any change to the normal day routine. So the early part of this week was rather stressful, in a low-key, I-shouldn't-be-stressed-about-this-thing-but-I-am way. Tomorrow I have a meeting, and Friday I have several events--all good/fun things like staff breakfast, lunch out, a TS meeting (counts as fun, we never do work during those), etc., and even the search committee meeting is something I'm looking forward to because I'm curious to hear people's opinions on the candidates--so today is really the only day where work was just 8 hours to work on whatever I want and after-work is just...well, admittedly most of my days are like this, but basically, free and open.

Work was pretty successful. I think I have already veered from Deluge to Drought, which makes me pretty annoyed at all the stress I let myself feel last week, despite my best efforts. But I am feeling more under control, which is good. After work, I did NOTHING (no regrets, except for how late I'll sleep). All in all, a very neutral day for the middle of the week.

On Monday, I had my rescheduled dentist appointment, which went very well. It was extremely efficient and my teeth were fine, which I always worry about at this point, just because I've had these teeth for nearly 30 years and you never know what they're up to. Then I stopped by the Food Lion on my way home and also the Starbucks. Somehow got a blister on my toe...extremely sad since I wasn't walking that much, but oh well.

Then Tuesday were the candidate interviews, which went very well, but did eat up a hug chunk of the middle of the day. I liked both applicants a lot, and I think that was the general consensus. We were up in the Faculty Library ("by tradition" lmao--okay, I have never seen a library person interviewed in the Faculty Library and I've been here for years and seen like half the current stuff interviewed but okay, a tradition from the vault), which was sort of disorienting actually. But cozy.

After work I went serious grocery shopping, which also went very well since I didn't have much to buy. I need to keep that energy up--no extraneous grocery purchases in 2023. The Mart is in the midst of some kind of huge rearrangement of its grocery section, which made stuff hard to find, but ultimately I got everything I wanted. I'm curious what it will look like when they're done.

So I have accomplished much this week... a couple more days to go. I should probably actually be productive after work tomorrow because I have some home-things I haven't done but... we'll see. I am very tired and want to sleep.

[livingwithlosingyou]

Living with Losing You - 11/28/2022

I have the Flu. Flu A. 

I know what you (the reader) are thinking, I really can’t catch a break. And the answer to your statement is yes, you’re correct. Since Jake died, I have been through it. As if that in itself wasn't already horrific enough. 

I barely slept last night, and spent most of it either shivering or sweating profusely. I took my temperature a few times, but unfortunately I realized that my thermometer was broken. It wasn’t until I picked up a new one (when I went to go get DayQuil and NyQuil) that I realized I had a 100.5 then a 102 eventually. I knew that Tylenol wasn’t working, and I knew I felt like complete shit. It was recommended that I go and get tested just in case. Well, it was a good thing I did since I do in fact have it. 

Today was also the day that OE was supposed to end for my company, but with everything going on, we decided to extend it luckily. I was working today while trying to get some answers at urgent care. It took me about 4 hours total. Lots of people. They said that this flu is going around right now. Also - you know you are a dedicated worker when you join a meeting from the urgent care room. The amount of times I have done that. And if you (the reader) are curious, yes, I opted for the highest FSA amount possible because I am such a health case. 

I am glad that the DayQuil somewhat worked. I am really hoping that this slowly starts to feel better. I have the NYC trip on Friday, and I can’t miss this trip. The doctor said she thinks I will be fine, but we will see what happens. I am canceling everything to try and rest / get better. Ugh, this sucks. 

James, I get a little frustrated. Amongst the promises that you made me, one of them was that you'd always be here to take care of me when I got sick. It’s really been fucked up how sick I have been since you’ve died. It also sucks that I do not just have you to help tell me what to take, etc. I miss that so much. We would always make jokes that you were my personal doctor and I was your “medical anomaly”. Which, is not incorrect. I get a little scared that I won’t find someone who has the patience that you did with all of my random illnesses and ailments. I’m sure I will, I guess I am just being Sadison. 

It was funny though cause they made me wait in the car instead of the lobby, so I went and got pho since I had a couple of hours. Yes, I sanitized and masked / ate it in my car. It kind of made the time go by faster. Working also helped make the time go by. Pros and cons to it. It was stressing me out though. 

I went home right after urgent care since I was gone for so long so I could take Sadie out / take my next dose of DayQuil. Then, I went to go grab my meds. I guess I was out of the window for the Tamiflu, so they gave me a cough suppressant instead. I think I may start with the NyQuil only, and then see how I feel. Once I got back to the house I ordered Chick-Fil-A DoorDash and ate like half of the fries and half of the sando. I really don’t have much of an apatite. I ordered some bland crackers on Amazon trough Whole Foods, it’s all supposed to be delivered tomorrow. That was my first time ever utilizing the grocery delivery service, so we will see how it goes. 

I spent the rest of the evening watching “Nailed it”, and now I am in bed typing this blog. 

I ordered your parents each a Christmas memorial lantern to honor you, and to remind them that you are with us this holiday season. I have been really struggling with that myself. I hate that you’re not here. I hate it. I miss you a lot James. 

I am going to drink my tea, take my NyQuil, and try to get some sleep. Fingers crossed I can, because I am WIPED from today. 

I could use a little strength. I love you. 

Rest in Peace, James Burton Nichols

10/1/1993 - 7/16/2022

PS - Here is your boy in his Chrimahhh collar, and then me hating my life lol

[apompkwrites]

in your arms || aether, bennett, chongyun

masterlist characters: aether, bennett, chongyun genre: fluff summary: in which their s/o is in desperately need of cuddles. notes: ah i miss cuddles :(( if you can't tell from how i write cuddling, i'm big on physical affection like hugs and stuff. can't do that now tho :( also, hun is a petname i use like... all the time. idk man, i just really like it :D

aether -

i feel like this boy gives some of the best cuddles.

i like to think he's the "older" twin out of the two.

on the coldest nights of their adventures, him and lumine would cuddle up next to each other next to a fire to keep warm (platonically of course).

if you're in teyvat after he's lost his sister, he'd put everything into those cuddles.

he misses her so much and he hates the idea that one day, you'll be gone too.

although he held high statuses in both mondstadt and liyue, aether still preferred to camp outside the city limits.

something about the calm and quiet outdoors brought peace to the otherworldy traveler.

and you never really minded it.

as long as you were able to be next to him, you were content with any living condition.

luckily, it never really affected your nightly cuddles with the blond :)

one day you both split up to handle separate commissions, right?

one brought him all the way to mondstadt while yours required you to head to liyue.

this commission, however, was one you didn't particularly enjoy.

it wasn't because you couldn't handle, because of course you could.

in fact, it was purely because of the neverending stress building on top of you.

so once your commission was complete, you definitely were in need of some good ol' aether cuddles.

you waited for him by your usual spot, the aching feeling in your chest growing more unbearable as time went on.

until eventually--

"(name)! sorry, did you wait long?"

"we brought you some food to make up for it!"

the familiar voices of of your beloved traveler and his emergency food companion called out to you from down the path.

aether was running over to you with paimon in tow.

and you, desperately wanting to wrap your arms around him, ran over to him and met him halfway down the path.

before he could talk again, you had already jumped into him and were squeezing him as you wrapped your arms around his shoulders.

"wh-whoa! (name)?"

instinctively, he'd wrap his arms around you.

he wouldn't need to ask about how your commission was, he could already tell by how tight your grip was around him.

"c'mere."

he'd pat his hands on your legs, signalling for you to jump up into his arms.

and, of course, you do.

he still needs to set up your tent and all, but he doesn't want to let you go either...

next best plan? just build the tent with you in his arms.

it'd take him longer than it normally would since he was busy holding you, but he'd get it done.

paimon definitely wants to tease the two of you, but she'll save that for tomorrow when you're feeling better :)

once paimon disappears to wherever she goes, it's just you and aether in your tent beneath the moonlight.

you're both accustomed to the hard floor beneath your tent, but that never mattered.

all that mattered was that the two of you were together.

if you're still awake, he'll whisper some stories of how his day was and what happened during his commission.

i like to think his go-to position for cuddling would be the honeymoon hug?

i mean, like i said before, cuddling is something that reassures him that you won't be leaving anytime soon.

so something like that type of cuddling where your both holding each other is his absolute favorite.

but if you're in need of comfort, he'd be laying on his back with you on top of him, his arms wrapped around your waist and hugging you close to him.

he likes to talk to you, surprisingly.

i mean, we've seen how quiet this boy is.

but with you, he'll talk to you even after you've fallen asleep.

"i know today's been kind of rough on you, hun... i hope just being here with me, holding you close to me, is enough to help comfort you."

bennett -

bennett... has absolutely no experience in cuddling whatsoever.

you'd have to be the one to help him out.

he's always afraid something will go wrong due to his bad luck that he's tried his best to stay away from intimate things like that.

plus, he's also very energetic and jittery so cuddling isn't something that's crossed his mind to begin with.

you'd be the one to show him all of the different positions you could do, include those where you're just sitting next to each other.

he's definitely touchy since he's never experienced this before.

still kinda hesitant though because of his luck ://

he needs a lot of reassurance from you before he even thinks about fully cuddling in his sleep.

in fact, a lot of the time it'd be you who's cuddling him after a bad day.

i think his favorite position before fully allowing himself to cuddle would be ones with lingering touches.

like a simple arm slung over the shoulder and your legs crossing each others' in your sleep.

those small gestures.

but once he's used to cuddling...

he loves the idea of having you hold onto him while sleeping.

kinda like the sweetheart cradle with you being the one to hold him.

he just needs that reassurance that you're okay with him and his luck won't do anything to change that.

but sometimes you need to be cuddled too.

you're day has been rough, what with the countless things you needed to do that day (be it because of procrastination, schedule mishaps, etc.)

you'll head towards the adventurer's guild in search of bennett.

his dads all know you, of course, so whoever meets up with you takes him to wherever he is.

you wouldn't need to say a lot to bennett for him to know something's up.

probably just a small hum or murmur would be enough to clue him in.

you'd drape yourself over his back, wrapping your arms around his shoulders and digging your nose into his neck.

he'd jump for a moment, thinking someone else knocked into him because of his luck.

but then he realizes you and he relaxes.

he'd bring his hands up to rub your arm, hearing your muffled whines as he does so.

his dads would already notice you're having a bad day, so they don't say anything that'll disturb you two.

honestly? bennett would probably want to cuddle with you right then and there.

he's not one to get embarrassed too quickly, so he wouldn't mind.

but his dads bring up a good point that you both should probably be resting in an appropriate bed instead of the floor or a bench.

so the two of you would head home as soon as you could!

bennett would talk your ear off about his adventures that day.

if you don't wanna talk, he can do enough for the both of you!

anyway, you'd both head home and jump into bed as soon as you can.

he'd instinctively go to your standard position but then he remembers that you're in need of some well deserved cuddles.

so instead, he'll be the one to hold you close.

he'd let you rest your head on his shoulder or chest.

you could trace the scars running up and down his arms.

he'd rub your back lightly while talking about his adventures again.

he'd tell you tales of the mare jivari he's heard.

and when you're off to sleep, the stress leaving your system, he'd continue to rub his hand along your back.

"how about tomorrow we go on an adventure? just me and you. we could do whatever we want to get your mind off of things..."

chongyun -

this poor boy doesn't cuddle a lot!!!

he's gotta stay cold, y'know?

as much as he'd love to just wrap his arms around you all night, he can't...

but he will try!

he'd definitely try to push himself near the beginning of the relationship.

i'm talking forcing himself to cuddle all night, no matter how hot it gets.

but, as the loving s/o you are, you tell him that it's okay he can't do the full body cuddles like other people.

but he still wants that touch, even if it's a little.

his cuddles are the ones where only a certain body part is touching the other.

like his arm is up against yours or your legs are touching.

those types.

he feels bad he can't do more though :((

he for sure owns those cooling blankets, even if it isn't for cuddling.

if you're under one of those, it's more likely for him to try and give you a hug as you both drift off.

he'd eventually separate from the hug if he's feeling too hot.

and as much as you're okay with those small cuddles with fleeting touches, there are times where you just need a good cuddle full of hugs.

he'd come home from another day of trying to exorcise evil spirits, wanting to simply fall into bed where he knows it's nice and cool.

he'd greet you once he walks into your bedroom but he'd notice...

you're wrapped up in your blanket and hugging your pillow tight, acknowledging his entrance with a simple nod.

he doesn't know what's causing you to feel upset or stressed, but that doesn't really matter anyway.

he'd hop into bed right next to you, slowly unwrapping your body from the blanket.

you're still clutching onto your pillow once the blanket is gone.

he'd have to turn you over for him to even be able to look at you.

you're resting your cheek on top of your pillow while looking up at him with tired eyes.

he'll cup your cheek with his hand, smiling softly when you nuzzle into his cold palm.

he would stay on top of the sheets while you're lower body is tucked underneath it.

he'll rub his thumb along your skin, watching as your eyelids flutter every now and then.

"have you been awake long?"

you shake your head.

"i see... come here."

he'd open up his arms, a gesture you hadn't seen for a long time.

this one, however, was different.

he didn't have a forced smile on his face and his arms weren't tense like before.

this time, he had that soft smile you'd always see when you two are enjoying popsicles together and his arms were relaxed.

you'd scooch over the bed, tossing your pillow behind you as you nuzzle into his chest.

he'd let out a quiet chuckle before pressing a quick kiss to your forehead.

"i'm sorry i don't do this often."

"...it's okay. i like our cuddles no matter what."

"but you deserve this every once and a while."

you'd just hum in response, smiling at the feeling of his thumb rubbing your skin.

he won't talk as much as the other two, opting to keep the calm silence in your room.

you could hear his quiet breaths and his heart beating in his chest.

and you fall asleep to it, the feeling of his arms around your body permanently marked on your skin.

"i normally... get too hot when we cuddle like this. but now... it's feels really nice."

[stop-or-ill-tell]

I have so many thoughts on today's episode holy shit

1. Birds of a feather flock together (Minwoo and Attorney Jang). Fr though I was cringing so much. I have really bad second hand embarrassment even for people I don't like and watching Attorney Jang fumble through that case was truly painful

2. I always feel conflicted about Choi Suyeon cuz on the one hand she's got a very frustrating mindset about autism and Youngwoo but on the other hand she can't stand seeing her suffer even when she's not around to hear the things being said etc. It feels like she either pities Youngwoo or thinks Youngwoo can't handle herself or she doesn't and is just a genuinely decent person who rationalizes her actions in an ableist way cuz she doesn't have the language to explain why she actually likes Youngwoo when others don't (and ik she shouldn't have to defend her friendship to assholes but she has now been asked to do so by assholes on multiple occasions). Some of her actions lead me to think it's the latter but I just can't believe that's true because she likes enemy #1 Kwon Minwoo which only can be explained by the former. I'm not sure if they didn't know what they were doing with her or if she's going to have more explanation. Ig we'll find out tomorrow. Because let's be honest, it's way to late to redeem Minwoo and Suyeon won't be the one to educate him (see their conversation about how they can't act like Youngwoo 🙄)

3. I didn't say anything about last Thursday's episode cuz I didn't have time. But I'm not worried at all about Junho and Youngwoo. Everything points to them getting back together. Especially after the chat they had this episode. My guess is Junho is now just taking his time to fully absorb her reason for breaking up with him and considering his options. But I think they'll be fine

(Also, complete side note, but the way everyone is comparing this to 2521 is so funny and so sad to me cuz 2521 is my favorite kdrama and I actually liked the end. Ik I'm in the minority but I really appreciated it, I made a post about that when it came out tho so I won't reiterate it here. And I don't think this is the kind of show where we have to worry about anything like that here. Especially because we knew it was coming in 2521, the seeds have not been planted here. Even if Youngwoo and Junho don't end up together, I think they'll have a satisfying ending)

Junho can tell how much she misses him. From the beginning of the episode he noticed her waiting to see him and he knows she just has to see him and that's it. But also that scene in court after the plaintiff took cyanide he wanted to help her so bad. Also also I think both his and my heart cracked when Youngwoo said she was afraid of making him feel lonely because she likes him so much 😭😭😭😭

4. THAT TRAILER!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHES GONNA MEET HER BROTHER!!!!!

5. Attorney Jang pissed me off but I genuinely laughed when he pushed the rookies to the reporters and then hid sneaking into the car... although driving away without everyone felt very out of character for Junho

6. HARY'S PLACE HAS BECOME THEIR HANGOUT I LOVE THEM THEY ARE SO DRAR TO ME

7. SPEAKING OF DEAR TO ME! ONCE AGAIN THE WAY YOUNGWOOS FRIENDS IMMEDIATELY BONDED WITH JUNG MYEONGSOEK!!!!!!!! I hope they're friends forever. The fact that a) they visited him in the hospital and b) that he made foOD FOR HIS MOTHER - save it. I wanted Hairy and Suyeon endgame before but I take it back. If we don't see a hot and heavy Attorney Jung/Hairy make out scene in the finale I'm staging a protest

[twiceasfrustrating]

I'm sorry if I already requested this of you I honestly have the memory of a walnut. But can I request headcannons of the boys + dia who find out MC has an emotionally abusive husband? Like fluff with some murder maybe?

thank you

Rating: Mature

Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply

Category: Gen

Fandom: Shall We Date?: Obey Me!

Characters: Lucifer (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Mammon (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Leviathan (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Satan (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Asmodeus (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Beelzebub (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Belphegor (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Diavolo (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!), Main Character (Shall We Date?: Obey Me!)

Additional Tags: abusive relationship mentioned, some are a bit murdery, I don't know how to write fluff for such a situation but I tried

A/N: If you are in an abusive situation in the USA and need to speak to someone, please call 1-800-799-7233. If you cannot call, you can also text “START” to 88788. If it is safe for you, you can also go to the website directly. Abuse takes many forms, but it is always about control.

Feel free to add the numbers/contact for other countries if you have them.

Lucifer

He got upset at MC once and they flinched when he yelled and they started apologizing like there was no tomorrow. That was how he found out something was wrong. They wouldn’t say anything, but he could tell that something was deeply wrong. Perhaps he had never noticed before the formation of their pact how MC shuddered around him whenever he got upset, but now he did.

He is very careful not to yell again and when he does he is quick to lower his voice the second MC shows distress, reassuring them that he is not angry at them and would not harm them. It sounds almost hollow after how he acted when they originally met, but he means it.

There was one time MC dropped a dish on the floor while cooking and it broke, spilling hot food everywhere. They started picking up the pieces in a hurry, not even paying attention to how the hot shards burned and cut up their hands.

Lucifer was quick to pick them up off the ground and tend to the fresh injuries, all while they kept apologizing and saying that they would clean it up as soon as they could and saying they would make something else. Lucifer forbade them from doing either and cleaned the mess himself. He did that a lot. Took care of their ‘mistakes’ and cared for them. They would almost believe he wasn't the same terrifying man they had first met.

It takes a long time for MC to get used to their new relationship with Lucifer and once they do they are far more comfortable and less skittish.

He is not pressuring the story out of them. He can wait, as difficult as it is, for them to open up. However, he is no fool. He knows who is to blame, and that man should be very afraid should Lucifer and he ever meet.

Mammon

MC always spoke so well of their husband when they first met the brothers. Mammon was actually jealous and wished MC would talk about him that way. They would always say how kind their husband was and how he loved them and how he wanted the best for them. It sounded like some kind of cheesy romance novel.

Things started to get weird though when he and MC started to get even closer. He would invite them out, only to hear “I don’t think my husband would like that” or “I shouldn’t be alone with you”. It was weird the first time, but it quickly became a pattern. A very worrying pattern. Mammon knew abuse when he saw it. He was the family butt monkey and a witch punching bag, after all.

The difference is that he’s a fallen angel that is used to such treatment and, as a demon, the things done to him do very little in the long run. Humans are far more fragile though; their minds, bodies, and hearts. And then Mammon started to hate MC’s husband with a passion that could not be matched.

He cared less about making that bastard pay and more about taking care of MC. Such treatment can ruin a person, especially good people like MC. He would do anything to show them that they deserved better than that man, whatever that eventually meant.

Leviathan

He and MC have a little too much in common for his taste. It is actually almost disgusting how little self-worth they seem to have, but he can also see how that was trained into them.

They play down their worth a lot: “It’s nothing”, “It could be better”, “I failed again”, etc. They never say anything positive about themself. They are really good at picking out their flaws, but almost incapable of pointing out their merits.

It goes against everything Levi believes in, but he has to start praising them since they won’t praise themself. He likes hanging out with them, the stuff they make is nice, they are a really quick learner. It feels weird to praise someone, but it’s nice to see MC start to feel a little better about all the things they do.

Although, he also has the mild thought of showing MC’s husband that there are more terrifying things in the world than the horrors a human is capable of. After all, Levi has seen the monsters that dwell in the deep; he is one of those monsters and there is a reason humans fear the darkest depths.

Satan

There are some wonderful upsides to being the avatar of wrath. Normally, Satan wouldn't be so crass as to give into them, but sometimes humanity is just so vile that he can't help himself.

One of those upsides is a mind filled to the brim with the instinctual desire to rip and tear anything he can get his hands on to pieces. It's an instinct he fights off constantly with his centuries of training and self-discovery, but just this once he doesn't mind becoming the beast he was born as.

MC's husband squeals like a stuck pig throughout the entire night, only the winds, spiders, and Satan being able to hear and appreciate the sound. And appreciate it he does, until the screaming stops and his hands are drenched with blood.

He really needs to get himself cleaned off before he sees MC again, otherwise they will be terrified. He needs to look his best when they come running to him worried about their missing husband. It’s sad how much they worry about him despite everything.

Asmodeus

MC was always so calm and docile when he wanted to spend time with them. He didn’t really get it at first but it was easier to dress them up and take them out, so he didn’t question it. At least, not until someone (read: Solomon) not so subtly pointed out that it is unusual for someone to be so passive, almost to the point of being doll-like.

Asmo didn’t believe it at first. How could anyone treat someone as sweet as MC so cruelly, especially someone that is supposed to love them? But from that day onward, his eyes were opened up and he started to notice things.

The way they didn’t put forth their own opinions and let him take the lead on everything, how they stuck close to him when they both went out, the subtle way their fingers reached out then drew back when they liked something.

“Do you like it?” He would ask and their response was “do you?”

It was so difficult to get them to start putting their own wants and desires above what they thought he’d like. When they showed interest in something, he would fawn all over it. If they liked something, he liked it too. He would buy them things they even glanced casually at, told them they were worthwhile and lovely, anything that other man would never say to them.

He tore them down so completely, but Asmo would work tirelessly to build them back up.

Beelzebub

He is the softest man in the world, and sometimes MC just lets things slip out. He’s very easy to open up to and they don’t think about what they say. He was the first person that they opened up to about what was happening to them.

Suffice it to say, Beel was shocked when they mentioned how terrified they were for the exchange program to end. Despite everything that they had been through over the past year, they didn’t want to go back.

Beel had only felt so powerless one other time in his life. He couldn’t go with them to protect them and they couldn’t stay in the Devildom forever to stay safe. It was painfully cruel just how much he couldn’t help them.

All he could do was hold them and listen to them get everything off of their chest, dreading the day that the exchange program would end.

MC has to hurry up and learn how to summon him, because he wants to keep them safe from that awful situation. He would never allow another person it the world to hurt them again.

Belphegor

Belphie likes exactly one human in the three realms and every other one is none of his concern. Or, they wouldn’t be his concern if it weren’t for the fact that the one human he cared about was the victim of this particular instance.

He’s not like some of his other brothers. He doesn’t do comfort and he isn’t the best at torture, prefering to get everything over with quickly so he doesn’t have to expend all the extra energy. But, for such a special occasion, he is more than willing to put in the effort.

Humans really do create their own worst fears. Their minds run a mile a minute and they have the strangest way of finding how their own terrors can overpower what little defenses they have.

He may not be able to touch MC’s husband, but he can certainly return every slight against his favorite human. Long, sleepless nights wracked with unending horrors that only that man can truly appreciate.

All the while, he will gladly hold MC when their own nightmares overtake them, trying to put their mind at ease for just this moment. How he wished that his powers could control the waking world as well as their dreams...

Diavolo

“Don’t go back.” It was the first time Diavolo had brought up the idea. It was one he had been considering for a long time, knowing that it was extreme given that MC was a human and had to live in the human realm. However, he couldn’t live with himself knowing the kind of life MC would return to once they left.

The shouting, the insults, discarding everything MC liked because their husband doesn’t care for it… Diavolo would never feel right knowing he sent someone dear to him back there.

He had the means to help them get literally anywhere but back to that man. Diavolo could help set them free from that life, even if they didn’t want to stay in the Devildom. He knew MC would have the support of everyone they had met.

All they had to do was say yes and he would move the Devildom itself to get them out of there.

[icollectyoursins]

Jotaro Relationship Head Canons SFW

Because I’m a self indulgent little shit and just love to ignore all of the work I have to do, have some Jotaro head canons. I am but a humble simp, and love this man. So much.

Update as of writing this. Somehow, it got very angsty, so... yeah. Sad man vibes. Also rambly. I just kinda kept going.

Wanna know what I’m willing to write? Rules here!

Have a character, but no idea? Prompt list here!

Looking for more? Master post here!

WARNINGS: None, just angst, but nothing too serious.

Word Count: 2,985

Jotaro’s type is... I mean, it depends, like most people. I don’t think he’s super picky over appearances or things like that, it’s more whether or not he gets along with you and how long he can put up with you.  He’s polite (well, as polite as he can be) and courteous, but probably a little more apathetic when you’ve first met. Once you’ve been around for a while he’s more relaxed and almost a little more critical. Mostly because you’re his friend now and he expects more from his friends.

While I was writing this I sort of realized that he could be aromantic. Maybe it’s just my own aro tendencies coming through, but I thought it sort of lined up with his personality. Or at least from my experience with romantic attraction.

Eventually, though, he’ll admit he cares about you a little more than he cares about others. It comes through in little almost compliments. “You did good. Keep it up” or “good job, dealing with this” are common phrases that sound nice on the surface, but it almost feels like he’s trying to pressure you to do more, which is far from the truth.  

If it’s not awkward compliments like that, it’s awkward gifts. Always something you had briefly mentioned wanting or stared at a minute longer than you usually do, wrapped in a paper that’s your favourite colour or pattern. Sometimes, though, it’s something you’ve never mentioned that he somehow guessed would be something you wanted.

At the same time, though, he’s oblivious or at least acts like he is. There may be times when he goes home after you said something exceptionally sweet to him or that just means so much and he’ll just take a moment sitting at his desk to mull over what you said.

    With a grunt, Jotaro rolled back into the armchair with a cup of tea in one hand and today’s newspaper in the other, since he didn’t get to read it this morning. It’s late with the sun almost completely set, giving his room an orange hue. He tries reading the first column, something about a cat being saved from a sewer grate, but after about a minute, he catches himself drifting away, sort of staring blankly at the paper.

    He blinks hard, taking a long sip from his coffee. He must be tired. Another attempt is made at reading, this time the comics. They’re not his favourite thing, but short enough that he can focus on them. Or so he thought.

    He zones out again, face suddenly feeling very hot.

    He was thinking about you. Or, rather what you said.

    It was something so simple, so mundane.

    You had been talking about family together, exchanging drama, if you will, and he had brought up how his father had left his mother when he was very young. It didn’t bother him, he had said, after all, it was years ago and if he was being honest, he didn’t really need a father. Then, you gave him this look. It wasn’t pity or something like that. You put your hand on his knee, staring deep into his eyes.

    “Jotaro,” you said, voice soft and sweet. You struggled to say the next words, opening your mouth, sighing, then finally: “I’m not leaving you.”

    “Why would you be leaving?” He said, confused, taking it literally. Or, he pretended to be confused. It had made his heart warm with affection.

    What Jotaro hadn’t noticed at that moment was that his eyes seemed to gloss over with wet tears while talking about his father. He wasn’t over it, you understood that. How could he be? He was so young then, he probably didn’t understand what was happening or why and now that he’s a father himself, there had to be so much guilt about being the same way. It was only now that he was realizing how much you had an effect on him.

    It didn’t make him sad, by any means but... loved. He’ll say thank you tomorrow with a gift or some flowers. He hadn’t planned on meeting you for the rest of the week because he was busy, but work could wait, right? Yeah. Tomorrow.

God, it would take so long for him to get you to move in together. He’s so used to living on his own that I think he’s a little self-conscious about it. He’s not a slob by any means, but certainly a bachelor. I mean, he lived (assumedly) on his own from probably around or earlier than DiU right up until Stone Free, so it’s been a while and he’s certainly comfortable with his mess of clothes lying on the floor in the corner, but you won’t be. He cleans up before people come over, obviously, but how many times did he actually invite someone in?

When you start staying around more, he starts cleaning more, which makes him a little frustrated both coming to terms with liking someone enough that he’s actively cleaning for them once a week and also discovering that he’s a lot more gross than he thought. You would not believe how stained the counter was from coffee or how gross the filter was on the coffee maker. He takes his coffee very seriously. You begin to notice how clean everything is, well, how consistently clean everything is and it even starts to smell nicer, more floral and fresh. He bought a lavender air freshener. “It’s supposed to be calming,” he’ll say with a hint of annoyance. It’s not a bad smell to him, better than vanilla air fresheners, but it does give him a headache when he first sprays his place. You seem to like it though, so he’s willing to put up with it.

I honestly believe this man can cook, but nervous when cooking for other people. His food when he was a bachelor was good enough for him and I’m sure Holly would have shown him a lot too, but it’s not the best food. He definitely steps up his game when you’re over and even more so when you move in. He’s better with dishes that have pasta or noodles because it’s easy, but he’s not too bad behind the grill either.

When you guys finally live together, he tries to keep the cooking even, with you cooking some days and him doing the rest, but I honestly feel like unless you are a hazard in the kitchen, you would do most of it.

Jotaro would be like that with most things around the house partly because he doesn’t want you to do all the work if you don’t want to but he enjoys having a little more time to himself to either do work or... yeah, it’s just work. There are a few things that he’ll never make you do because it’s either too hard or he’s built up a routine of doing that thing a certain way and he’s convinced no one else will do it right. Like his laundry. He won’t let anyone else clean his clothes. He tried once and nothing dried right, he swears that his jacket is still damp to this day. You can fold his stuff or hang it up, but he’s running the washing machine and dryer. Also picky about how his office is cleaned.

If you asked and gave a legitimate reason for not doing a certain chore, he’ll do it, but be prepared with an excuse as to why you can’t wash the dishes or fold the laundry. He’s especially resistant if he’s working whether that be gathering information for the Speedwagon Foundation or editing his latest Marine Biology book.

Actually, can we just talk about how much this man hates folding laundry? It’s so pointless to him. Why fold it and put it into neat little piles when you’re just gonna rummage through the drawer and mess everything up? Sure, it looks nice, I guess, but not for long. He was for sure a floordrobe kind of guy, especially in his early years. He knows which ones are clean, it’s fine, just leave it. Of course, he would get better the longer you’re at his place, but still. It’s not that he’s lazy, he’s just busy and putting clothes away takes way too fucking long. (which, honestly, agreed.)

Date nights with Jotaro are... rare. I mean, you live with him, why would he want to go out and pay for something when he could do the same thing at home? They’re nice, of course, but it’s more common for him to take you out to dinner while you guys are on vacation or in a location other than home, because he doesn’t feel like cooking and it’s more special when you’re supposed to go out. Eventually, it clicks in that you are supposed to make each other feel special and will surprise you with an expensive dinner or a short cruise. If you suggest the aquarium he’ll think you’re just saying that because he’s into aquatic wildlife, but honestly doesn’t put up much of a fight and will answer any questions you or anyone else has about the fish.

He does enjoy a good relaxing movie (or documentary) night at home, though. It’s so nice to finally be finished work, settle into your super comfy couch and just chill until he gets tired. Even better when you’re lying on top of him with your head just under his chin. There’s something so soothing about smelling your perfume, shampoo, conditioner, cologne, etc. To just smell you so close to him and feel your weight. Aaah. So nice.

    The microwave beeps faintly from the kitchen signalling that popcorn was done. You trailed out soon after, tossing the bowl to mix around the butter. You smile sweetly at him, leaning down to plant a gentle kiss on Jotaro’s lips before settling into his lap, nestling your head just under his while stretching out your legs. His arm instinctively moves from the back of the couch to drape over your back, rubbing circles into it with his thumb.

    He sighs; relaxed, finally. He allows himself to kiss your forehead, closing his eyes for a moment, just basking in your comfort. When he opens his eyes, he pulls you closer to him, feeling your heart beat almost in time with his. It was moments like these that eased his panic of losing you. You were here in his arms, safe and sound and vice versa. He was safe in yours.

Yeah, he’s a little angsty. But, can you blame him? He’s getting better, though. With help, of course. With you being around so often (and being very adamant that you’re not going anywhere) he’s able to let go a little. He’s not perfect, by a long shot and progress is slow, but it’s the little things like these that makes you proud of how far he’s come.

PDA is common, but a little restricted. When you’re out together, Jotaro’ll always have his hand on your back or shoulder. Hand-holding isn’t really a thing for him, but he will make sure you know he’s there. He’ll kiss you in public, but it’s not nearly as intimate or special as when you’re at home. Still, it’s a sweet reminder that he loves you, seeing as words of affection aren’t really his thing.

I mean, he can express himself just fine, but he still gets a little nervous saying things like ‘I love you.’ It’s more along the lines of ‘I care about you.’ Or, well. “of course, I care about you. You wouldn’t be here if I didn’t.” Which... thanks. I think.

Kissing him is so nice, so you’re not too mad about him doing that instead of words. When Jotaro kisses you it’s full of a mix of emotions. Mostly caring, but on his rough days, there’s something else there. It could be worry or whatever the emotional equivalent of never letting you go is. You can always tell that he wants it to last a little bit longer. There’s something in the sad look in his eyes when he or you has to pull away. Sometimes he’s overly gentle like he’ll break you somehow, especially if you’re not a stand user or fighting-inclined (whether physical or otherwise). It’s not patronizing, or at least he tries not to be patronizing, he just prefers you safe.

    It started out simple enough. You and Jotaro were just sitting at the table, eating dinner when he got this... sinking sort of feeling. There was something in the silence between you that just sent his mind spiralling. Thoughts of you someday dying too soon for whatever reason or leaving him because he’s not there enough, stand users, car crashes, divorce. They all started to flood into his mind, fabricating that you would somehow be taken away from him.

    “Jotaro? Are you okay?” Your voice rings through; a bright light breaking the storm. He’s been staring at his plate for a while now, his eyes are dry and itchy. He looks at you and tries to say something, but the words don’t come. Is he okay?

    You stand up and walk over to him, cupping his face gently. You rub the dark circles under his eyes while kissing his forehead. Jotaro slowly wraps his arms around you, letting his face fall into your hands. You’re pulled into his lap after a few minutes, running your fingers through his hair next. Finally, he sighs, burying his face in the crook of your neck.

    “Thank you,” he mumbles and though you’re not quite sure why, you still say a quiet you’re welcome, silently soothing him through whatever happened.

If you couldn’t tell, he needs a lot of reassurance. Not so much words, but actions like the snippet above. I mean, he can be as strong as he wants but we all know he’s got some baggage and while he’s able to put it aside, for the most part, I think when you’re at home he’s just a little more vulnerable.

Now, onto happier things! If you like coffee or tea, he will always make you a cup in the morning. Jotaro is a very early riser except on the weekends, so he usually gets that done while reading or watching the news and when you come down, he’ll ask if you want breakfast then make it for you seeing as he’s more awake.

He loves coffee. So much. He might have a caffeine addiction, honestly. At all times of every day, you can see him with a black coffee in hand and a book or phone in the other. He will switch to decaf at some point, but you might have to switch it for him. He’s forgetful when he gets busy.

Sleeping in on the weekends is like heaven for him. The two nights (or more on holidays) that he gets a full nights rest, breakfast in bed and a warm soul to cuddle into. He’s usually big spoon with a hand just resting on your side, but please, for the love of god make him the little spoon once a week. Will never admit it or vocalize wanting it. He just grabs your hand and drapes it over him with a “good night” and then promptly passes out.

He’s a heavy sleeper but doesn’t sleep often. Once he’s out, there is nothing that could wake him up except the fire alarm or something like that. It just takes a while. Not because of trauma, but more just internal clock is delayed.

Not a bath guy, strictly showers ‘cause they’re quicker. Most of the time he’s in and out before you can invite him into yours. When you do he’s “reluctant” but showers with you are a favourite of his. He gets his hair washed for him (if he bends down), he can wash you. It’s great.

I don’t think he would want more kids. He’s getting older, busier and just doesn’t think he has the time to care for a baby, even with help. Plus, if they were anything like Joylne or god forbid him when he was younger, he might start greying sooner than he thought. Joylne is a great kid, but... she’s definitely got some of his defiance in him. One kid is fine.

He doesn’t really like pets either, hates when there’s fur on all the furniture. But, if you came home with a stray cat or two, he’s not gonna put up a fight if you say they’re not going to the pound. “Just as long as you take care of them yourself.”

You got him a betta fish once because Jotaro. Fish. Makes sense. He thought it was a little pointless at first. You can’t pet them or play fetch (not like he does those things anyway). All a fish does is sit there and look pretty. You were a little disappointed, but whatever, you’ll take care of it. Then he comes home one day with a 30-gallon tank, freshwater plants and fancy lighting to help them grow which he quietly sets up in the living room. He spent at least a half-hour deciding on where to put it.

A week later, after he’s pleased with how it looks and the tank has been cycled he puts in an order for more fish then lets your betta acclimate to the tank. “There, he’ll be happier in here. The idea of bettas not enjoying or panicking in larger tanks is a myth. He won’t be alone for long anyway. He also won’t kill everything in the tank.” Well, he hopes he won’t, each fish is different. Thankfully, the small school of tetras get along with your betta just fine. From then on, he’s in there once a week, cleaning everything, trimming the overgrowth. It is officially his tank.