#and john took him to see wrestling matches

[shallowseeker]

Added to this post.

Felt like it was important. Marvelous Marvin was a champion boxer during Dean's childhood (mid- to late 80s)!!!

Marvelous Marvin is also a nod to a Marvelous Marvin Hagler, a middleweight boxing champion and a callback to Dean's psychosexual crush and wrestling interests in Beyond the Mat. As far as angels go, Cas is something of a middleweight champion--not a "heavyweight" archangel, but not a lower-ranking angel either. Ergo, Marvin is also a stand-in for Silvia's unseen love rival.

FYI, this also strengthens my feeling that Dean and Cas may have bought Marvin together for Jack. Cas, because it's his style to buy soft, fluffy things for his loved ones (Claire & Grumpy Cat) and Dean, because he would've kinda wanted it too for the reference to a beloved boxing figure. (Dean was at least along for the ride, and he found it hilarious.)

Cas & Dean also bought Grumpy Cat together, after all. They went to the mall together. Cas is Grumpy Cat, and Claire is also Grumpy Cat. Cas's also Marvin, and Jack is also Marvin (and Dean can be Marvin too, if you like).

I also feel like Marvelous Marvin is a relatively new item in the household, or else we'd have seen it next to the photo of Kelly, combined with Kelly's laptop message, or on Jack's bed. There's a good chance it's also a birthday gift, like Grumpy Cat was.

BONUS: There are red boxing gloves in the Dean-Cave! AU Bobby boxes with Jack in 14x01. Jack dresses like Rocky Bilboa when he's training as a human! (It's the gray sweatsuit of the infamous Gonna Fly Now running scene!)

Dean's the wrestler. Jack's the boxer. I love it.

(Cas gets a cinematic boxing scene too in Purgatory, complete with slow-mo uppercuts. It's right before they get to the rift. Actually, a lot of snippets in season 8 are boxing-like for Cas, such as when he's hard to knock down in the warehouse when they try to save Samandriel. Or even as early as his season 4 fight with Uriel. In several scripts, like Good Intentions, Cas is referred to as "bobbing and weaving," which is a fighting phrase that derives from boxing.)

Anyway, I was delighted to notice these motifs.

ADDENDUM: Realistically, I think Jack may have been present when they bought the bear, and it may have been Dean who originally told the cashier that the bear was, "for his stepson, Ronald," which is an ominous reference to James "Jimmy" Stewart's stepson, Ronald McLean who was famously killed in Vietnam as a Marine.

[thanksbutno98]

The Adventures of Molly (Part 1)

John Price x wife!reader OC

Summary: The Price’s family dog gets into just as much trouble as the rest of them.

Authors Note: To make up for my lack of including Molly in my fics I decided to dedicate one to her. I’ll be doing one or two more of her through the years as the Price children get older.

Warnings: Swearing, injury, pregnancy, not edited

——————

It was a windy spring day as you and your family stood in the small shelter where the new litter of puppies were housed. You and your husband John Price were finally pulling the trigger and getting the dog you always spoke about. It had been a dream to have lambs in your large plot of land but in order to do that you needed a herding dog.

So here you were, picking one out together. You brought your four year old son Jj and two year old daughter Evelyn. Jj was enamored by the mother dog who birthed the litter while Evelyn was giggling over the puppies wrestling.

“The mummy puppy must be so sad.” Jj was on his tip toes trying to get a better look over the wired fence.

The female blue merl border Collie was curled up in the far corner with a single one of her pups laid on her back by her head. The others were running around and playing. Letting out little yelps and high pitched barks as they tackled each other.

“What makes you say that?” John inquired wondering what his son was getting at.

“People are taking her puppies away. Mummy would be so sad if someone took me and Evie away.” Looking up into John’s matching sky blue eyes Jj had a serious expression on his face. His eyebrows were knit together and full lips fixed in a frown.

“He makes my heart swell and ache at the same time.” You whispered to John.

“Intuitive little guy.” He whispered back.

The two of you were immensely proud that teaching your son empathy wasn’t a challenge. The boy came hardwired carrying about others and now you knew that extended to animals.

“That’s why it’s so important we take good care of the pup. So his mama never has to worry.” Squatting down John spoke softly yet seriously to his son.

He didn’t realize that single sentence seared itself into his son’s mind.

“I’ll walk her every day, feed her lots of treats, and she can even snuggle in bed with me.” Shaking his head admittedly you could see your son was taking this seriously. At four years old he seemed to understand the importance of taking good care of a dog that some adults struggled to grasp.

“Which one do you think, John?” You asked your husbands opinion not knowing what attributes made a good herding dog.

“That one!” Jj’s chubby finger pointed at the sleeping puppy laying on her mothers back.

The small pup had a similar blue merl coat as her mother only she was tri-colored. Her little face was an almost lilac grey with pure white running up her snout and disappearing to the back of her head. One eyes was hugged with a crescent shape of tawny fur while the other had a single dot above it. Her ears matched perfectly with black fur at the point and tawny fur on the inside. The pale grey fur that ran along her body matched her mother’s with the black speckled spots and splotches of pure white.

“You sure? He seems a little. . . lazy.” John, now standing back at his full height, was scratching the back of his head watching how the five other liter mates wrestled and totted around clumsily.

“She’s just sleepy and needs a cuddle.” Jj reasoned with John.

“Oh let him have her.” Bumping John with your hip he continued to look at the sleeping puppy not completely sure this was a good choice for the dog’s intended purpose.

“C’mon! She’s my best friend! She loves me already I swear she does!” Jj was bouncing up and down while pulling on John’s belt loops. Hooking his fingers into the loops Jj arched his back and let his head fall back.

“Pleeease daddy.” Bearing his teeth Jj lightly swung back and forth as he dangled himself backward.

“Okay fine.” John caved. Seeing his son ask so cutely was enough for him to give him what he wanted.

“Can we meet that one?” John pointed to the tiniest of the liter who was sound asleep and making little yipping noises as she dreamt.

“Yes, go right into that pen and I’ll bring her right over for you all to meet.” The elderly woman motioned to the empty pen behind you that was used to introduce the puppies to potential families.

You all piled in and John was giving you a funny look. Rubbing his back you tried to silently reassure him this puppy was fine. That he was being a good father by entertaining his son’s opinion.

Soon enough the small tri-colored border collie was placed on the opposite side of the pen as you. She wobbled on her tiny paws and then turned back to look in the direction of her mother. It was the cutest noise she let out lightly yelping and then howling for her mother.

“It’s okay if you miss your mummy. I’m right here.” Jj kneeled a foot behind the tiny pup with his right hand outstretched.

She turned to look at Jj, tilted her head to the side, took a single step forward and sniffed the space right before his hand. Taking another step she gave him a better sniff then a little lick. There was a few second pause as the gears in her little head turned and then it seemed like she made up her mind. Trotting forward she climbed into Jj’s lap, circled a few times, then plopped down and went to sleep.

“Told you she’s my best friend.” Jj spoke in a tiny voice trying not to wake up his new companion.

“Seems like a perfect match.” The elderly woman smiled sweetly seeing this adorable display of two babies finding their forever family in each other.

“I can’t say no to that. She curled up on him in seconds.” With outstretched arms John barely glanced at you. He was snapping picture a second later which you would end up hanging up in your downstairs hallway.

“Got a name picked out?” The elderly woman asked you and John.

“Molly. Her names Molly.” Jj spoke with the sweetest smile plastered across his young face.

——————

“Jj, where’s Molly?” John asked as he entered his son’s room.

Jj’s room was rectangular shaped with his door located in the right corner. These forest green walls held where Jj loved to play with his toys the most. There was a birch desk in the right corner across from the bedroom door. It was new yet still had marker stains and smudges of water color paints. There was a navy blue rug in the center of the room with a recent stain from when Jj threw up all over John.

In the center of the wall that shared the bedroom door was Jj’s twin sized bed. His bed stuck out to bisect the room and had two night stands on either side of it. After that was his closet door. There was a toy chest at the end of the bed and a dresser on the far wall between the two windows.

It had been a week since you brought your new family member home. Jj kept to his word and walked her every day. The only thing was, he kept battling you and John constantly that Molly needed more treats and should be allowed to snuggle in his bed. She wasn’t house trained yet so it was a firm no from you both. You also told Jj she wouldn’t be allowed on any furniture, that she would have her own dog bed. This made your son throw an absolute fit. That didn’t stop you from finding Molly hidden under his covers fast asleep.

“I think mummy has her.” Jjs voice could be heard from the opposite side of his bed. Little did Jj know you were the one who sent John to go find Molly.

John couldn’t see Jj since he was clearly hiding. There was a soft lapping sound of something being licked that gave the four year old away. Walking around the bed John saw his son lying on his belly with Molly lying right next to him. Jj had a jar of peanut butter opened and his hand coated in the sticky substance as Molly licked it clean.

“The good peanut butter, really?” With a straight face John asked.

Jj slowly looked up with a sheepish smile.

“She should have the best treats. Her mummy would want that.” Jj tried to reason.

Sticking his full hand back into the jar he lathered it up again and offered it to Molly. John was partially annoyed for his son’s lack of listening but he couldn’t deny how cute Jj looked being sweet to their new dog. Dressed in his fire truck pajamas with multiple dog toys lying around him.

“Jj that stuffs expensive.” John chuckled.

“I’ll eat the bad peanut butter, I don’t mind. I want Molly to have the tasty kind.” Getting up to kneel Jj gave John a toothy smile that didn’t reach his icy blue eyes.

Jj was unsure if he was in trouble but if he was it was worth getting his new best friend a yummy snack. Jj went to lather his hand again but gasped when John grabbed the jar off the floor and screwed the lid back on.

“Daddy-“

“If she has anymore she’ll get sick. Like the time you wouldn’t stop eating m&m’s.” With a smirk John motioned for Jj to get up.

“Mummy shouldn’t have left them out.” Jj explained to John as if he wasn’t the one to have his son throw up all over him from eating way too much candy.

“Go and wash your hands. Then we can take Molly out back and let her run around off leash.” John started to laugh as Jj gasped in excitement and ran out his room to go wash up.

“Molly you’re gonna love this!” Jj squealed from the bathroom.

To John’s amazement the 9 weeks old puppy trotted after his son. She breezed right by John like he didn’t exist and was fixated on the little boy.

——————

“Jj! The peanut butters missing again.” You called from the kitchen.

It didn’t sound like a warning but it was. And soon enough your son appeared in the kitchen doorway looking guilty. Next to him was your new puppy who had been a part of the family for four months now. She had grown incredibly fast and no longer looked like a puppy. At the rate she was growing she’d be the same size as Jj in a few months.

“Can we get a ‘Molly’ peanut butter?” It came out as a whine.

“We have one.” You reminded your son and motioned for him to hand over the nice glass jar.

“But it’s gross.” Jj complained as he handed you the overly priced jar.

“Dogs shouldn’t be having all this sugar. It’s not good for them. That’s why we got her a sugar and salt free one.” You were surprised to see Jj roll his eyes and you could feel the sass about to come which was unlike the normally agreeable child.

“Don’t worry Molly I’ll make sure meanie mummy isn’t giving you that gross stuff.” Petting her head Jj ran for the back door.

“Slow down.” John chuckled as Jj ducked between his father’s long legs and ran into the yard. Molly barked and ran after your son clumsily.

John was just walking into the house from work. He was dressed in beige cargo pants and a green t-shirt that was tucked in. There was a stack of files in his hand that he tossed on to the kitchen table before coming over to greet you.

“Where’s the little gremlin?” John looked around for his daughter.

“Napping. She’s been a menace today. Laughing like a maniac every time I said no and then doing whatever it was right in front of me.” The thought of you dealing with that all day made John chuckle.

“Sounds like she takes after you.” The cheeky comment had you dodging his hello kiss.

That didn’t seem to deter your husband who pinned your arms to your side from behind and pressed his body against you so you were half leaning over the counter. Your bum was firmly pressed to his crotch while his hands were getting very close to your breasts. John kissed your cheek over and over until he was sick of it and went for the other one. He picked you up slightly, your feet hovering a few inches above the floor as he continued his assault.

“Let go.” You giggled and wiggled in John’s grasp.

“DADDY!!” The sound of your son shrieking had John dropping you and full on sprinting for the door.

You were right behind, your chest tight and an instant panic kicking in. Jj was sweet and a tough little boy. He hardly screamed unless it was from laughter. The only times he screamed your names was when Evelyn was taking his toys or the few times she bit him. This type of scream was very uncommon. Your son sounded scared.

You and John were running like hell to your son who was much farther away from the house than he was normally allowed. The rule was if you weren’t outside with him he was not allowed near the pond or past the soccer net. Right now he was at the edge of the forest stumbling back to his feet.

“Are you okay.” John had his hands on Jj grabbing his shoulders and jostling him around to look at him.

Jj was covered in mud but only on the front of him. It looked like he must have belly flopped into a puddle or something.

“Molly chased a fox into the woods! YOU HAVE TO GET HER!” Throwing his head back Jj began to wail.

Fat tears rolled down his face and he plopped down to the ground on his bum and weeped pathetically into his hands.

“Molly’s mummy would be worried about her!” Jj shrieked and tugged at his hair realizing this all of a sudden.

You had just caught up at this point catching the latter half of the conversation. That’s when you saw Molly dive through the woods seemingly chasing after something. If she was to get lost in there you weren’t sure you and John would be able to find her. Without thinking you took off into the woods after Molly. You followed the sounds of her barking. Ducking under branches and leaping over fallen trees you followed after her as fast as your legs would take you. Eventually you saw her again growling and barking up a tree a good distance into the woods.

“Gotcha!” You scooped the pup up into your arms. You were huffing and puffing trying to catch your breath. Turning back you realized you couldn’t see your house anymore.

“Oh, fuck.” You turned back around trying to see if there were any land markers so you could find your way back.

You couldn’t hear or see it but Jj was now lying on the ground crying hysterically at John. John was doing his best to try and calm the four year old down.

“We lost mummy and Molly!!” Jj could barely see straight with how the tears blurred his eyes.

“They’re not lost.” John glanced back at the house.

This was not a good situation for him. Jj was probably right and you were lost in the woods, that would be so like you. The only thing stopping John from going and finding you was the fact Evelyn would be left by herself in the house while she napped. But John knew the worst thing that could happen was she cried waiting for you to come get her. Picking up the sobbing four year old John began his trek through the woods to find you.

It didn’t take long you were about a quarter mile in the woods sitting on a fallen tree holding Molly.

“MOLLY!” Jj wiggled aggressively until John placed him on his feet.

Sprinting over Jj slammed into your thigh and started hugging the sleeping puppy.

“Molly I’ll never lose you again!” Your little boy started to cry half way through his sentence. Laying his head on her soft fur he began to weep all over again.

“I’m sorry Molly’s mummy! I’ll keep her safe!” Jj cried into her fur, a guilt you didn’t realize he was carrying spilling out.

“Found you quick.” John placed a kiss to your head and then squatted down to hug Jj.

You wrapped John and your little boy up in a hug as he continued to cry until he was too tired to walk back. John carried the now sleeping Jj while you carried Molly.

“I’m surprised I found you so quick.” John spoke softly as you made your trek back to the house.

“I decided to just sit down and wait for you. I thought if I tried to find my way back I’d only get more lost.” You shrugged.

“He’s so much like you Y/N.” John whispered and placed a soft kiss to the top of Jj’s sleeping head.

“You think?” You asked wondering what John meant.

“Crying over Mollys mum maybe being worried about her. I would’ve never thought that way as a kid. But you? That’s all you. The caring so deeply it leaves you guilt ridden.” Johns words made your heart swell. It felt amazing to be seen on such a vulnerable level and how your son had inherited some of your traits.

By the time you were back at the house Jj was waking up and asking for a snack. You sat him at the kitchen table and gave him apple slices and peanut butter. You and John realized quickly that the snacks you gave Jj were shared with Molly. So now you had to make sure every snack was dog friendly.

“Jj I’ve got a question for you.” John asked his puffy eyed little boy.

Jj hummed devouring his snack and getting peanut butter all over his face. Molly was lying just beneath his feet chomping on an apple slice.

“What do you think about Molly’s mummy? You bring her up a lot.” Sitting next to his son John took one of the apple slices and ate it.

“She would want Molly to run and play all the time, eat the best treats, learn stuff like how to sit and shake. She’d want Molly to have the comfiest bed and all the snuggles in the world.” Speaking with his mouth full Jj pretended to drop another apple slice that was quickly eaten by his best friend sitting under his feet that didn’t reach the floor.

“Why do you say that?” John followed up.

Jj paused for a second and looked up at John and then at you. You were standing on the other side of the kitchen getting lunch ready. John’s line of questioning had you curious to hear what your son was thinking.

“If Mollys mummy took me, mummy would want her to do stuff like take me to the trampoline park and get us fancy peanut butter. Or special snuggles, big fat kisses, and let me and Evie sleep in her bed sometimes.” Jj waved around his apple slice dipped in the brown sweetness.

You squeaked lightly hearing your son’s words. It was involuntary how tears welled in your eyes and a rock formed in your throat. Your lip began to quiver knowing that’s how your little boy saw you. That you would want only the best for him and he knew that. Taking a deep breath that came in rather sharp you wiped your eyes quickly.

“I love you more than anything in the world Jonathan.” You were making your way over to your son and soon hugging him tight and placing kiss after kiss to his cheek.

Jj giggled and tried batting you away. Giving up he hugged you back his sweet laugh filling the kitchen.

“Seeeeee mummy gives me snuggles.” Jj stuck his tongue out at John who was chuckling at you two.

“Good lad.” John ruffled the little boys hair and then plucked an apple slice with extra peanut butter and gave it to Molly.

——————

“MUSH!” The Price children shouted in unison.

Jj and Evelyn Price were sat on the bright blue sled at the top of the small hill to the right of their homes driveway. It slopped down and became flat for about twenty yards before the thicket of trees that hid the property from the street. Jj had tied Molly’s leash to the end of the sled so she could pull them down the hill. Molly was officially full grown at 32lbs and spry. Today was her birthday making her a year old.

Jj, who was almost five, was dressed in a red snow suit with the hood up and pulled tight. He had lime green mitten on and matching boots. Evelyn, a few weeks away from being three, was dressed in a pastel purple snow suit with a pink scarf and hat snuggly on. She refused to put her hood up and wore Jj’s old dark blue boots that were a size too big.

“Jj!” Evelyn whined at the fact Molly wasn’t moving.

“Molly, mush!” Jj tried again, kicking his feet.

Molly looked back at Jj and then squatted and peed. It had become obvious over the year together Molly was sweet but not the smartest dog. Jj would become shrill whenever John called her dumb. But even he at times blankly stared at her when she ran into the glass door for the hundredth time.

“Ew.” Evelyn’s nose scrunched.

“Wait here, I have an idea!” Jj got off the sled and ran over to where you and John were shoveling the driveway.

It was a snow day for daycares and schools leaving you and the children home for the day. John called out saying he had family matters to attend to which was truly playing with the kids in the snow. You two just had to get the long drive way cleared first.

“Where are you going?” Sticking his shovel into the snow John watched Jj hop off the small mound of snow forming along the driveway as you two shoveled.

“Mummy I need a tennis ball.” Jj ran straight into you, his feet catching on some ice and unable to stop himself.

“Careful.” You slipped at the force but caught yourself before you took Jj down with you. Reaching into your pocket you gave Jj the tennis ball you grabbed before heading outside.

“Thanks!” Grabbing it with both mittened hands Jj turned and went to run back to Evelyn. She was lying down flat in the sled with her tongue stuck out trying to catch snow flakes.

Jj took two steps away from you then slipped and fell backwards. Before you or John could ask if he was alright he was slipping while he got back to his feet and was off running again.

“Evie look!” Jj waved the tennis ball around.

Still lying on her back Evelyn turned her head to look at her brother. Once again Jj tripped a few feet away from the sled and face planted into the snow. Lifting his head up with a face covered in snow Jj watched the bright green tennis ball begin to roll down the hill. Evelyn sat up quickly to check on Jj.

“You oka-“ Evelyn began to ask but went flying backward hitting her head off the sled.

The tennis ball rolled right past Molly and she took off after it. In her haste the sled slowed her for only a second so she pulled harder to catch up to the bright green ball quickly rolling down the hill.

“MUMMY!” Evelyn shrieked at the top of her lungs.

Her tiny mittened hands gripped the edges of the sled as the sky and tree tops whizzed by. The uneven grooves of snow sent her small body bouncing up in the air and colliding back down against the plastic of the sled.

“EVIE!” Jj was scrambling to his feet and began chasing after the sled as it flew down the hill with Molly still pulling it.

The sound of crunching snow echoed in the little boys ears as he ran after his baby sister. He was running extremely fast in his mind and would catch up to her in no time.

The screams caught you and John’s attention. It was comical to watch the sled lurch forward and then take off down the hill quickly behind Molly. Jj was running so slow you wondered if he was even trying. After a few steps he fell face first into the snow again so hard he slid down the hill a couple feet.

John dropped his shovel and ran after Molly and Evelyn before she was dragged to the street. You made your way over to Jj who was struggling to get up after falling so many times.

“You okay?” Jj heard your voice over his shoulder.

He stayed laying there face first in the snow not willing to get up yet.

“Yes.” His sweet voice was muffled against the snow.

With a small laugh you picked him up and set him back on his feet. Jj’s cheeks were tinted from the cold snow that you were brushing away. He could feel it sticking to his eyelashes but you soon had those cleaned off too. Looking to the bottom of the hill Jj saw his father walking up the hill with Evelyn on his hip and the sled under his other arm. Molly was trotting behind, jumping and trying to take the tennis ball Evelyn was holding.

“Smart idea, Jj.” John praised as he made it to where you and Jj were.

“You okay Evie!?” Jj asked clearly worried.

“That. Was. WICKED!” Throwing her hands into the air you and John laughed at her reaction.

“I’ll stand at the bottom of the hill and your mum will get you two set up.” John placed Evelyn down and then handed you the sled.

“Really!?” Jj was now bouncing up and down at the prospect of you and John joining in on the fun.

“And then when we’re done with sledding we can build a snowman.” You added which had Evelyn cheering.

“I want to build a snow dog so Molly can have a friend!”

——————

“How you feeling little man?” John was just walking into Jj’s room.

Jj who was now six had caught the flu and was held up in bed. He was curled up under his blankets with a pile of tissues sitting on his night stand and a few had fallen to the floor.

As soon as John opened the door Molly busted through with so much force the door slammed into the wall. She dashed across the room and jumped into Jj’s bed not caring if she squished him in the process. Standing over the boy she frantically licked his face which made him squirm and giggle.

“Someone missed you and I thought you could use a buddy.” It made John’s heart flutter seeing how much Molly and Jj meant to each other.

Molly had been whining at the bottom of the stairs all day wanting someone to open the gate and let her upstairs. Evelyn entertained her for a little but they both grew bored of one another. You tried to take Molly for a walk but two steps out of the door Molly became a statue. She pointed herself towards the house and you knew it was because she wanted Jj to walk her, not you.

“You sick of Evie? She can be a pill can’t she.” Jj ruffled the scuff of Mollys fur while he spoke in a mock deep voice.

“Get some sleep.” John gave Jj a kiss to the top of the head and the ruffled Mollys head.

Molly circled a few times and then laid herself on top of Jj’s legs. The two fell asleep quickly and Jj was finally able to get the rest he needed.

——————

It was quiet, much quieter than John was use to. The kids and you must be out shopping or running errands. This was a rare occasion and John was ready to seize his moment of solitude. So he thought this would be a good time to make himself a sandwich.

Piling the lunch meat high and adding an extra slice of cheese John squished the sandwich down enjoying the sound of the crisps crunching between the bread. Next John poured himself a glass of milk to go along with the blueberry danish he grabbed as dessert. Setting off to the living room John placed his plate and cup on the coffee table.

Molly who had gotten a bit rounder over the years was napping on the chaise lounge of the U shaped couch. John use to shoo her off furniture and usher her over to her dog bed but had given up in recent years. The children invited her on the couch or their beds whenever he wasn’t in the room. You had even joined in, having Molly nap with you on the couch or in bed when John was abroad.

“John.” Your voice called from the back door as soon as John turned on the television.

Falling back into the cushions John groaned in disappointment. He almost got away with having a snack, that you considered a full meal, by himself. Looking down at the delicious sight in front of him John sighed and accepted defeat. Now he would be sharing this with his kids once they saw it.

“Coming.” John called back.

Getting up from the couch John made his way to the kitchen. He saw your kids carrying a large brown paper grocery bag each. That’s when John remembered you asked him what he needed from the grocery store before he headed out that morning.

“Thank you, darling.” John gave you a sweet peck to the lips.

He hated shopping and it was especially difficult with the kids. They were either at each other’s throats or asking for everything they knew they couldn’t have and whining about it. It almost always ended in a quiet car ride home because John demanded silence and if there was a single peep there’d be consequences.

“Can you two go clean up the yard toys please?” You asked your children as you began to put away the groceries.

“No.” Evelyn spoke sweetly, smiled and began to walk down the hall toward the living room.

“Oi, don’t be cheeky and go pick up the toys.” John was flabbergasted by her response.

“Why ask if I don’t have a choice.” Turning on her heels the sweet demeanor flipped to a sour one.

“You’d rather I boss you around?” You asked unable to hold back your laugh.

“I’d rather not do it at all.” Evelyn grumbled, slipping her shoes back on and heading out the back door.

“Molly!” Jj called from the back door for her to come join them outside.

“Think she’s napping.” John told his son only to eat his words.

Molly appeared at the end of the hallway and slowly, very slowly, made her way out the back door to join Evelyn and Jj.

“Think she can walk any slower?” You asked John who just walked in with the rest of the groceries bags hugged to his chest.

“Laziest dog I’ve ever met. To think we were going to use her for herding.” John chuckled.

Placing the bags on the counter John dipped out to grab his food and eat in the kitchen. That way he could chat with you and still enjoy his snack. Entering the living room John wasn’t sure what he was expecting now that he thought about.

His plate was licked clean and even his glass of milk was drank.

“No wonder she was moving so slow.”

——————

“MOLLY!” John’s voice echoed in the house as he shouted like a banshee.

“Jesus, John you’re going to burst a blood vessel.” You had waddled into the kitchen from the living room at the sound of your husband losing his mind.

You were eight months pregnant and feeling irritable with your husband today. John hadn’t done anything but for some reason just the sight of him had been ticking you off since this morning. Once you saw what he was shouting about you felt your blood pressure spike.

“MOLLY!” You shrieked.

The shoe rack you kept by the back door was flipped over and every pair of shoes had been torn to shreds. Molly didn’t discriminate. She went for your heels, sneakers, slippers, and crocs. The kids shoes and Evelyn’s ballet slippers were decimated. John’s boots, trainers, and a few hats were also casualties.

“That damn dog!” Picking up the sole to his expensive dress shoe John flung it forcefully at the tattered remains of hundreds of dollars of shoes.

“I’ll go find her.” You stopped John from storming upstairs and shouting even more.

“Why weren’t you watching her?” John hissed in your face.

“Why weren’t you watching her!” You snapped back.

“I was busy!” You knew it was just a fit of rage that John was turning on you but you didn’t appreciate it. As if on cue your little girl kicked in your belly as you prepared to verbally eviscerate your husband.

“Yeah, and I was over in the corner twiddling my thumbs! Oh wait I was cleaning your mess in the living room with swollen fucking ankles.” Your venom had John putting up his hands as if saying he gave up and then he took a deep breath.

“Sorry. Let’s go find her and make sure she didn’t eat any of this. Then it’ll be a vet bill on top of it all.” John gave you an apologetic smile and hugged you to say sorry.

His hands rubbed your large belly and lingered on the little feet kicking away.

You stood there with your arms crossed over your chest and refused to hug him back. With a kiss to your lips that you didn’t return you both made your way up to Jj’s room where Molly most likely was. Once up on the second floor and down the hallway you could see Jj’s door was shut which was unusual.

Everyone in the house kept their bedroom doors open unless they were changing or sleeping. Knocking firmly John didn’t wait for a response and tried to open the door. Only it didn’t budge.

“Jj you can’t hide her in there.” Rattling the door by the knob John then knocked again a little louder.

There was silence behind the door. You and John shared a look and then you nodded for him to go ahead. With the tips of his finger John searched the top of the door frame for the skeleton key you hid up there. The sound of the key turning in the lock finally elicited a response from the eight year old.

“IM NAKED!” Jj blurted out as you and John entered his room.

Jj was standing on the far left corner of his bedroom fully clothed. His bed bisected the room blocking you or John from getting to him quickly. The closet door popped open for a second but Jj casually leaned against it.

“What’s in there?” The gravel in John’s voice rumbled from his chest.

The look John was giving his son had Jj gulping in suspense. The young boy was trying his best to stay straight faced but he realized how much better his sister was in moments like this.

“Nothing.” It surprised you how smoothly Jj spoke.

“You sure about that?” You followed up.

Jj wouldn’t even look at you. It was one thing to fib to his father but it felt impossible for him to do it to you.

“Jonathan, look at me.” You told him sweetly.

John was slowly rounding the bed. Jj had his eyes locked on his father. Slowly he pressed his back fully against the door no longer pretending like he wasn’t hiding anything. With a frown on his face Jj apprehensively looked at you who was nodding your head for him to give up.

“We just want to check if she’s okay. We’ve never punished her before and we aren’t going to start now.” Trying to reassure Jj didn’t seem to work.

“Whatever it is she didn’t do it.” Jj blurted out at John who was now standing directly in front of the boy.

Realizing he had lost Jj decided he wouldn’t go down without a fight. Grabbing the door knob Jj rushed forward opening the door behind him. Throwing himself at John Jj bear hugged his father pinning his arms to his sides.

“RUN MOLLY!” Jj shouted holding on as tight as possible so John couldn’t run after her or free his arms right away.

When Jj realized his father wasn’t struggling he looked up at him. John’s icy eyes looked amused and he had an eyebrow quirked down at the eight year old.

“I commend your tenacity.” John chuckled and then nodded with his chin for Jj to turn around.

Letting go slowly Jj then turned quickly to look at Molly. Molly was lying at the bottom of Jj’s closest chewing on his brand new football cleats.

“MOLLY!”

~~~~~tag list~~~~~

@exhaustedpotat0 @glitterypirateduck @ivymarquis @crazymela @what-0-life @boredfairy4 @hihhasotherfixations @stephanswhxre @shanjisan @k4es @luvleywrites @kita03-0 @midwesternwitchery @aleynaleia @suckerforbassist @misshoneypaper @theaonlax @blackstar9005 @tooterbutt @havoc973 @maladaptivedaydreamingbum @freshlemontea @cosmoscoffeee @sae1kie @ohworm-writes @ghostslittlegf @fanficwriterlover @arminarlertssword @faceache111 @azu21 @thirstyb-ches @nini-11-08 @sgtgarricks @kiki-is-hy perfixating @mayflysdie

[bunny-jpeg]

wrestling au 🤼 - starring task force 141!

simon 'ghost' riley -

oh, big scary ghost. the masked heel of the little association he was apart of. he took in the sounds of people's booing, and he fought without much remorse. he tried not to make it look too real, by that he meant not messing up his opponent too much. the last thing he wanted was to get his ear talked off by upper management. there was a routine to follow, even if it ended in bruising, simon still had to follow it. or else everything could be thrown off. his hulking size made him a wall of an opponent, and the story lines where he won were always a crowd favourite. he loved being the big baddie of the ring, he loved to be the monster they booed at. because no matter how loud they got, simon would always walk away with the title belt.

he fucked like an animal though. you were the daughter of his trainer and boy did he love to take you for a spin after he got nice and sweaty. when your father was in his office cashing the cheque for the monthly payment for his services, simon was servicing something else. your back on the wooden bench of the men's locker room. simon's cock splitting you. he used his size to his advantage, while he couldn't do too much damage in the ring. you sure as hell could take a sexual beating. the numerous amount of times, simon had you twisted up as he fucked you. in the locker room, in the back of his car, even that time over your father's desk when he had left early. you were good stress relief and even when the crowd booed him, you were in the back happily cheering for your big, beefy lover.

john price -

face turned heel, a seasoned veteran with the aches and pains to prove it. his knees cracked if he tried to go to low and it usually takes him an extra few days to recover from it all. when he was clean shaven and younger, he was the pretty boy from liverpool. now in the twilight years of his career, he loved to be big, bad, price. he was the kind to play 'dirty', the sort of wrestler to throw last ditch effort tricks to win the match. he got his fists bloodied. he laughed when the crowd booed him, he basked in the feeling of being the worst of the worst. alongside his right-hand man ghost, they were destined to take the title from the pretty faced good guys. he looked good in the books and the 'shorts'. anyone close enough to the ring could see price's bulge. it was the type of be circulated on social media. he was hairy, a little different than the normally smooth wrestler. he smoked on stage and antagonized the audience. he was a hefty man who loved to get his opponents down on the mat.

but even at his age, he likes to sink his teeth into the competition. and what's better than the fresh face they got in the women's division. oh, you look amazing under him. price got into the ring with you a few times, the he had you bent in certain was that made you blush. you almost moaned when he had you basically in a ball with his barely covered crotch up against your ass. he even barked the words, "guess it's time for me to find a missus! what do you think? could our new starlet be the wife of the big, bad price?" which only earned hollering from the crowd. he liked it rough outside the ring, when he had you pushed into storage closets. when he got to tear your underwear off of you and sink into his prize. that was his cunt, don't you forget. if he sees you talking to another male wrestler, then there would be hell to pay. you better pray that the pill works, or you'll be in the stands a lot sooner than you expected with price's hefty baby in your arms.

john 'soap' mactavish -

face, face, face! but the face you hate to love! his story lines are always so good. he was cocky, loud, his laughter was like a bark when he got the microphone. he was the good boy from glasgow, even had saint andrew's cross across the ass of his shorts. he was the most flexible, often having the heels of the organization bend him in ways that most others couldn't. while he wasn't the broadest (he was still fairly big), he made up for it in endurance. one time he was asked how he could keep up for so long even if he was bloodied and bruised, he simply laughed and said, "well, ya bed enough bonnies. you can keep goin' all day and all night with the likes of these guys. sadly, the girls tap out before i'm finished." he felt like he teetered between being a heel and a face, he only became more cocky when he won the title from price. when he got the older man on the mats. it was only right for a face to have the title, for a heel to have it was wrong. but yet, there was a cockiness to him. even was he stripped price of the belt and gave the shiny metal a heated kiss. the man from the highlands was on top!

but of course the man on top loves to have his woman on top. and who exactly was the lovely woman to be with mister mactavish? well, it was the ceo's daughter of course! and the stamina he had in the ring bled into your experiences with him in the bedroom. johnny was a cervix bruiser, the kind where you'd feel it for days afterwards. when you sat at lunch with your father, you'd wince and pray that no pained expression crossed your face. like price, johnny was a breeder. with a stamina like a rabbit, of course he was shooting loads into you on almost a daily basis. you'd lie to your father about you whereabouts, you said you were at the library studying for your upcoming final. meanwhile johnny was pouring shots of liquor down your throat then messing up your pretty face with his cum as you sucked him off behind the building. insatiable, with the title around his waist only making it worse. he had the title in his hands and the ceo's daughter's lips around his throbbing cock. but don't worry, johnny isn't the type to tap and leave. no, no, finishing in you is a promise. a promise that you'll be mrs. mactavish very soon. after all, his kids weren't going to have your father's last name.

kyle 'gaz' garrick -

a very clearly a face. his gimmick is the sweetheart next door who can handle himself in the ring. a real knight in shining armor, it was hard when the story called for his defeat. but, in the end he always came back to secure his title. there was a bravado to him, and a real charmer. while some had a face that others wanted to hit, no one wanted to mess up that perfection that was kyle garrick. he did play it up a little bit, sauntering as he entered the ring, letting the crowd get excited for what was to come. he had more than a few fans, but he was always respectful. a real gentleman. he even had a trick where he'd give roses to female fans as he walked towards the ring. his smile gleaming under the bright lights.

of course, the sweetheart of the ring has the perfect love story. the woman who had been with him since his early days. while his fellow wrestlers got into all sorts of trouble, he enjoyed the company of his dear wife. but, don't get it wrong, your sex life was not boring. while price was screwing newbies, kyle was on his knees in the bathroom of the pub you all went to after the match. your back up against the sink of the single stall washroom. your pants around your knees and his large hands on your thighs. his tongue lapping at your pussy. your sweet, muffled moans kept kyle wanting more. his cock throbbed in his jeans, the rush of the match was still abuzz in his system. he loved the taste of his wife, how could he not? even after all these years together, tasting you was like biting into a ripe apple at the peak of its season. the kind of fruit that had a price tag that would make the average person shudder. you were the apple of his eye and the love of his life. of course he'd worship you. there was still an electricity between you two, a fire that couldn't be tamed. if he gave a rose to a fan as part of his gimmick, then you got a dozen. if roses made you allergies flare up, then he'd give you fake ones. so they'd never wilt, like his love for you.

[draco-after-dark]

Is there any creature/critter that feral got injured to?

And

Did feral get his wings from when he turned into rock feral? Cause he has rip parts in his wings just like your rock troll wings design.

in your drawing of feral or should I say redesign of rock feral (the one where he has black skin w/ red eyes and his red & white glow pattern) 🤔ᴴᴹᴹ that gives me a hint that feral got his wings due to the fact that the guitar was still missing 1 or 2 strings when he got transformed into rock feral

Is there any creature/critter that feral got injured to?

I mean all of his scars are from run ins with all different types of critters. Except for two major ones. He got better at dealing with critters of all sizes over the years so most of the scars are pretty old by the time he reunites with his brothers.

Although it your asking if I specifically have him get injured by a critter in my fic you will just have to wait and see.

Did feral get his wings from when he turned into rock feral? Cause he has rip parts in his wings just like your rock troll wings design.

I mean the rips themself were just a stylistic choice and the fact he didn't know how to fly when he first got his wings. So he had to figure that out for himself. Resulted in a few accidents.

Rock Feral does get the wings before regular Feral. A byproduct of the corrupted Rock transformation. Mainly based on the idea that Rock trolls were originally supposed to have wings but then that idea got scrapped. Plus it made the most sense story wise for that to be when he receives his wings with what I already have planned event wise.

That and I find the idea of the entire Rock troll society being terrified of Branch's older brother hilarious. Especially when the brothers reconcile and they just see JD as their goofy older brother. He's just a weirdo but they get used to it pretty quickly so their all just like.

"Johnny boy? Naw, he's chill. Just don't challenge him to an arm wrestling match. You won't win. Not even Viva could beat him and she's stronger then me!"

"Yeah, I used to be terrified of John but then one thing lead to another and it turns out he was just as scared of me. Now we're unstoppable when he work together."

"I always knew it was John Dory from the beginning. Took the others awhile to figure it all out but now were closer then I ever dreamed we could have been." "JD's actually taught me a lot of new things. It's nice getting to spend time with him after all these years. I never thought we would be so similar. Don't tell him I said that or he'll never leave me alone."

[queen-of-deans-booty]

Beyond The Mat: Part One

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Female!Reader

Word Count: ~1.8k

Warnings: canon angst and violence

Summary: Dean opts to take a break from your normal mess and attend the funeral of a beloved wrestler. While there, you have some fun watching a wrestling match, getting drunk with the wrestlers, and, oh yeah, slaying demons.

Season Eleven Masterlist

Author’s Note: I do not own anything from Supernatural. All credit goes to their respective owners. I love seeing any and all comments <3

x

It's been weeks without any solution on how to help Castiel, how to defeat Amara, and where to find another Hand of God. Sam and Dean have taken a break from hunting to focus on this while you focus your time on the kids. It's the weekend so it calls for a lazy day before they resume their schooling on Monday. Molly is with the girls in Joanna's room playing tea party while Noah is with you in the kitchen eating the breakfast you made.

Dean walks into the room and greets you with a kiss before ruffling Noah's hair.

"There's bacon. I made sure to make extra."

"I love you," Dean grins and grabs two from the plate.

You shake your head with a smile and go back to cooking the eggs. Dean sits down next to Noah, and that's when you notice the duffel bag in Dean's hand. You're about to question him when Sam walks in after having a shower.

"What's with the bag?" Sam asks as he pours himself a cup of coffee.

"Do you remember Top Notch Wrestling?"

"Yeah, they were those wrestling shows Dad took us to when we were kids, right?"

"Yeah. I came across an obituary last night. Larry 'The Hangman' Lee died."

"Wait, wasn't he Dad's favorite?"

"You bet your ass he was. Anytime that noose would come out, Dad would be on his feet. It was one of the few times I ever saw him actually happy," Dean chuckles at the memory. "Anyway, the funeral is less than a day's drive. I say we go pay our respects."

"Don't you think our plates are kind of full? It's bad out there, Dean.'

"You don't think I know that? We've done nothing but mainline lore for a week. We've got jackshit on another hand of God and Amara, and we've got even less jackshit on how to save Cas."

"If he wants to be saved," Sam scoffs.

"He does even if he doesn't know it yet." Sam sighs and Dean looks at his brother with pleading eyes. "I'm burnt, man. Okay? I need... we need to get out of here. Let's go stretch our legs."

"He has a point, Sam. No point in stressing ourselves for nothing."

"Fine, we'll go."

"Do you want to come?" Dean asks Noah.

"Do you even have to ask? I'll go get my bag."

Noah jumps up and runs to his room eagerly. You laugh and grab the plate he left behind and place it in the sink. You plate the eggs before turning off the stove. The girls will be hungry after all that tea partying they're doing.

"Hey, Molly, the boys and I are going to a funeral for some wrestling guy. Noah is coming with us. We should be back Sunday night."

"Okay, no problem," she smiles.

"Breakfast is on the table."

"Thanks!"

"Have fun, Mommy," Joanna grins.

"Oh, yeah. Top Wrestling. So much fun," you chuckle and leave.

Without stopping, you get to the funeral shortly after it starts. Inside are famous wrestling men that only Sam and Dean know. Whenever John put those matches on, you tuned them all out. Dean can't contain the smile on his face that shows just how excited he is.

"Dude, check it out. It's 'The Scream' Casey Lyons. There's Wrecking Ball Calhoon. Is that The Brooklyn Beast?"

"What happened to them? They look broken."

"Their friend just died," you whisper to Sam.

"Dude!" Dean gasps. He gestures to the man standing by the closed casket. "That's Gunner fucking Lawless!"

"Groupie much?" Sam chuckles.

"Shut up. Should I go say hi? I should go say hi. I'm gonna go say hi. Come on, Noah."

Dean takes his son over to Gunner while you and Sam stay behind.

"He's your brother," you say.

"Yeah, but you married him. That was your choice."

"Hi, sir," Dean stutters. Gunner turns and looks at your husband. "I, uh, saw you... saw you standing over here and told my brother that I... I should come over and say hi... so I came over and, uh... Hi."

Gunner smiles and shakes Dean's hand much to his delight. Noah smiles, amused at his father's behavior.

"Gunner Lawless."

"Oh, I know. I... I got to tell you. I... worshipped you, growing up."

"Thanks." Gunner looks down at his hand which Dean is still holding in a grip. "I plan on keeping that hand."

"Oh, sorry." Dean quickly lets go. "You know when I was... when I was ten, I got my first B&E from borrowing some family's pay-per-view so I could watch the cage match between you and the Tower of Power."

"I'm not sure how I feel about contributing to your juvenile delinquency, but appreciate it all the same."

"Yeah. You were robbed, by the way."

"You bet your ass I was. Nice to meet you, kid," he says to Noah before walking away.

"You, too." Noah looks at his dad. "You handled that well."

"Shut up," Dean says and pouts.

You and Sam are by the snack table when a blonde woman comes up to it. Sam does a double-take and looks like he is about to shit his pants either from excitement or embarrassment.

"You're Rio. You used to manage Superbomb Sanchez, right?"

"Oh, that was a long time ago," she says bashfully.

"Yeah, but you... you... you look great," he stutters. She looks at him, and you cough to cover your laughter. "Sorry. Uh... wrong place. It's just you were my... my first crush."

You smirk and grab a cookie to munch on.

"Ah. You weren't one of those guys that had my poster above his bed, were you?"

Sam smiles embarrassingly. "What? No."

"Yes, last week," you cut in. "It was disturbing. I hated going into his room."

Sam elbows you hard in the gut, and you laugh but back off.

"Are you still managing?" Sam asks.

"Nah. I call some matches sometimes, but I'm mostly behind the curtain, you know, booking the shows and taking care of the guys."

"Yeah. Must be hard to see one go."

"Yeah, well, we spent a lot of time on the road together. We're like family, and lately, I've seen too many of my boys be put in the dirt. I have known Hangman for twenty-five years. He was a good man. Great family. I just can't believe he would do this."

"Do what?"

"Kill himself."

"That wasn't in the obituary."

"The family didn't want that advertised. Speaking of which, if you'll excuse me."

She walks away and Sam turns to you with the biggest bitch face ever.

"Thanks for that."

"Yeah, you're welcome," you grin.

You laugh just as Dean and Noah join you two.

"Hey, you know they're having a memorial show tonight? I know you're itching to get back, but--"

"We should go to it," Sam cuts his brother off.

"Wait, really?"

"Why not? The world's still gonna be screwed tomorrow, right?"

"You're damn right it will."

Dean couldn't stop bouncing in his seat as he waited for the show to start. When it did, Dean made sure to be one of the first ones there. The place is already packed full of fans but there are still seats in the front row that Dean snags. Rio stands in the middle of the ring with a microphone that is attached to the ceiling.

"Soak it in, Noah. This is what true wrestling looks like."

"The Brooklyn Beast returns against Rush in an epic Iron Man matchup! Let me hear you make some noise!" The crowd cheers for the wrestlers. "Are you ready?"

"I remember the Top Notch shows being grander, you know? Top-notch," Sam says.

"Well, if you drink enough, it'll be just like old times."

The microphone lifts back up to the ceiling and Rio leaves the ring. She fixes her hair and smiles at Sam when she passes by your group. Dean smirks and looks at his brother who tries to hide his smile.

"Rio? You dog."

"Oh, shut up. Dude, we met at the wake. She's nice."

"Did you tell her you used to have a poster of her over your bed when you were a kid?"

"I did," you grin, and Sam hits your leg.

"Get this. The guy at the wake told me they're only making twenty-five bucks tonight."

"Really? That hardly seems worth it. Think about that. Town after town, putting your ass on the line for next to nothing? No money. No glory. Wow," Dean scoffs.

"Dean, you realize you just literally described our jobs, right?" you laugh.

A man and his son take two seats behind you and nearly bump into Sam and Dean.

"Woa, excuse me, fellas." He turns to his son with a smile. "This is going to be great." The man then leans closer to the brothers. "Got to love some rasslin', am I right? Beer's cheap, kid's entertained... That's parenting." He turns back to his son. "Remember, don't tell Mom how many I've had."

"Yeah. Now, that brings me back," Sam scoffs.

"You want to not try and ruin one of the nicest things Dad ever did for us, please? Thank you," Dean rolls his eyes.

The lights turn down as the match begins. A spotlight is on the curtain where backstage is, and also on Rio as she sits in a small announcer booth behind you.

"Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together for Hellrazor!" The curtains are pulled back and a big burly man wearing a red tracksuit comes out. The crowd cheers for him as he walks down the aisle. "And now, ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together for Gunnar Lawless!"

The curtains are pulled back and Gunner steps through them wearing a white leather jacket with fringes over a blue jumpsuit. There is a single glove on his right hand, and Dean jumps out of his seat to cheer for the wrestler. Sam does because he's just as excited, but you stay seated. Even Noah is excited. You're amused because you love seeing Dean happy, and this is no exception.

"Yeah!!" Dean cheers. Gunner punches his chest and raises both fists in the air to get the crowd excited for him. Dean looks back at you and nudges your arm. "Hey, get up. Show some respect."

You can't help but laugh but do as you're told. Gunner pumps the air with his gloved hand before taking it off. He lifts the glove and points to the crowd who cheer for him.

"Who's getting it? Who's getting it, huh?"

"Oh, oh, remember this?" Dean asks excitedly. "This is where he takes a glove off and gives it to some kid before the match. Whoo!"

Gunner walks down the aisle slowly and looks at the crowd to pick out the right person for the glove. He points the glove in Dean's direction and smiles.

"Huh?"

"Oh yeah! Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!" Dean cheers and raises his hands.

Gunner steps forward and hands his glove to Noah who takes it with a huge smile. Dean's face falls at not receiving the glove but tries to hide his disappointment.

"Maybe next time," Sam chuckles and pats his brother's back.

"It's alright. I'm not a child. It's fine."

"I've never won anything!" Noah grins.

"Congrats, kid," Dean nods.

"Awe, don't worry, Dean. I can make one at home for you," you offer.

"It's not the same," he grumbles.

x

Want to be tagged? Follow my library blog @aqueenslibrary​​​​​​ where I reblog all my stories, so you can put notifications on there without the extra stuff :)

[marvelfanfn2187a113]

The supernatural episode where John returns broke me when John tells Sam that he is proud of him, like Sam always had that unresolved conflict with his father, Dean's unresolved conflict was having dinner with the whole family together. What would be the Winchester sister's conflict with John? How would that interaction occur in that chapter?

I think the main reason the little sister would have unresolved conflict would be because she doesn’t remember John very much. Like she has memories of him and she remembers how much she loved him, but whenever Sam or Dean mention him he just always seems bad (Dean talking about how he got left at a boys home, or Sam making that crack about cheap beer being the reason John took them to wrestling matches). I think she would be conflicted between her feeling for him and what she knows about him. When he comes back and apologizes and she can see just how much he loves them (even though he wasn’t always able to do right by them), she’d finally be able to understand him, and that would be what she always wanted.

There are so many things that she wishes she could’ve done with him though—things a girl is supposed to do with her dad—but they just don’t have time for them all. However, they do share a moment. Sam says that he doesn’t want the little sister to have to see John go, so John decides to put her to bed one last time. He goes to her room and for a while he just looks at it. She asks him why, and he just smiles and says—

“I always wanted you to have your own room. You didn’t deserve those motels—none of you kids did.”

He wanders around for a minute before he sees a record player by her bed. He puts in the first record he finds and starts it up. She just watches him, not sure what he’s doing, until he reaches out his hand and says,

“May I have this dance?”

And she laughs and grabs his hand, and they dance around for a minute before she asks—

“What’s this for?”

“Every daddy-daughter dance I’ve missed,” John says.

He twirls her around for a few minutes until the song ends, and then he turns the record player off and tucks her into bed.

“I’m gonna miss you,” she says, and now she’s almost crying.

“Hey,” John soothes. “Please don’t cry, sweetheart.” And she smiles, because he said it just like Dean does. “Let’s just be glad we got today, ok?”

[should-know-better]

The Best Is Yet To Come Lyric Theory

As Miles has had dinner this week with both Big Lew and Romeo (Jay Forrester for anyone who doesn't know) I took another look at the The Best is Yet To Come lyrics. Here's my theory about what the song means. Warning - it’s long!

On first listen, this comes across as a song about Miles looking forward to having a night out with friends, having drinks and dancing, 'all these nights having fun, you and I chasing round the sun.' In fact, Miles alludes to this in the John Kennedy interview.

But who is 'you?' Is he talking to himself? A close friend? Lover? Mother? God?

'Only YOU know what I get up to on my own, I'm like a freak show double denim, walking slow'

By describing himself as a 'freak show' he’s suggesting that he’s someone others look at for entertainment (which in his career he is) though the meaning can be deeper than this.

Freak Shows in the 19th century were events that were put on to show off people who had abnormal developments, they showcased the bizarre, the ludicrous and the unbelievable, dehumanising the people who appeared in them. [It might be worth noting that this also ties back to the circus - a theme that Alex often refers to].

The freak shows made a great deal of money for the Showmen that ran them - so, this could be a dig at the record industry.

Interestingly, I discovered there is a 2017 film called 'Freak Show'. I have no idea if Miles has seen this, but look at the synopsis - remind you of anyone?

It also seems too much of a coincidence that there is 'Freakshow Wrestling,' which Miles is likely to have seen. The website says you can, 'witness the most outrageous, high flying, gut punching, body slamming matches.'

These days, Wikipedia tells us, 'freak' can playfully refer to an enthusiast or obsessive person, who has eccentric behaviour different from the societal norms. So, multiple meanings from two little words in Miles' description himself but safe to say, he sees himself as 'different'.

'Double denim' is an outfit that Miles is often seen wearing, but 'walking slow' doesn't sound like him - usually so energetic. It could mean that he's not getting to where he wants to be as quickly as he wants (in life or otherwise).

'Where the secret weekday ghosts' - to me, this suggests that he has a secret throughout the week (or in his public persona) and during this night out, he can forget about / ignore that as he’s with someone he trusts. He can be himself.

'Only the streetlights guide US home' - this refers to the night time, and this is when the 'real' person or truth is revealed, as has been shown in many other song lyrics. Note, how he's referring to 'us.' They are in the 'real' situation too.

'Oh, it's the big show, With me, Big Lew and Romeo.'

Again, a double meaning. The big show can refer to everyone showing up for the night out (backed up by the use of his friends' names) but can also it might be a reference to a big gig or a big night out, or putting on a show (hiding the real him).

'All these nights having fun, You and I chasing round the sun.'

From what has been deduced so far, 'You and I' doesn't seem to fit with him referring to himself throughout this. As it's about a night out, it also doesn't seem that he's referring to his Mother or God. So we are left with it referring to a close friend or a lover (or both).

'Chasing round the sun,' might be a subtle dig at the paps - i.e. they have to be careful not to be seen by The Sun newspaper.

According to the Word Mastery channel on You Tube, 'chasing the sun' means several things: - that you are in a constant pursuit, one that is endless and challenging - it describes a person looking who is looking for new experiences, opportunities or a better life - it symbolises a journey towards something positive and life affirming (like the sun) and the pursuit of happiness

So Miles and this other person who is very close to him (remember; 'only you know what I get up to on my own) are trying to follow their dreams to a better life.

Miles is optimistic about this, 'the best is yet to come,' but also I thought the symbolism of 'coke and rum' was fun. (A coke and rum cocktail is a Cuba Libre - literally meaning 'Free Cuba,' which originated when the country won independence - so Miles wants freedom and independence).

'I'm in the corner, feeling the music like a wave' - literally could refer to Miles being in a club, in the corner with the music reverberating around him.

At a push, ‘wave’ might also refer to a sound wave, as in amplitude modulation or AM - and another little nod to Alex Turner!

However, 'in the corner' also means, 'I am trapped,' so perhaps, his career has him trapped and he can't be himself, even though he loves what he does. A 'wave' is a sudden occurrence or increase in a feeling or emotion. We know that Miles has said that he gets a real buzz from performing.

'I come with a warning, and a best before date.' - He's cautious as he's aware that music careers only last for so long. It could also mean that he'll only wait so long for a certain someone.

'I'll be the good, the bad, the queen, and all of the people in between' - nice reference to Damon Albarn's other band, who Miles is a fan of (he follows them on Insta) - by referring to himself as a queen, he's saying he is gay - also, it says that he will play the different roles and parts that he is required to, during his career.

'So it's the Late Show, and I'll be the host with no routine.' - to a casual listener, Miles could be saying that he's having a late night out on town, but as it is capitalised, it means more. The Late Show is an American news and political satire TV show. It also happens to be the show where Alex debuted his buzzcut, singing 'The Ultracheese.'

'And I'll be the host with no routine' - yet another double meaning. The host of the Late Show, Stephen Colbert, is, according to the New Yorker, not as popular on this show as he was on his previous show. Is Miles wondering if he won't be as successful if he comes out? Alternatively, it could mean, that Miles will be the person who entertains everyone (the host) by being himself and having no ulterior motives.

So, to sum up; this is not a simple song about a night out with friends. It is referring to Miles having only one person who really knows what he is like. He has a secret (a gay relationship) that only a few close friends know about officially and he'd like to be able to tell everyone about this. At present, he feels trapped in the situation as he loves his career but he can't be himself. He’ll play the different roles for so long, but not forever, then he'll shock everyone by taking charge and coming out - which will be a positive thing. The references to Alex in the song, point to him being the 'you' who knows him best.

Phew! Thanks for getting this far. If you have anything more to add I’d love to hear your comments. xx

[sneakingsybilus]

Monday Night Raw "Live" Netflix Reactions

GLASGOW SCOTLAND!!!!

Oh yea the possible triple threat WrestleMania match

OoOoO a Dragon Lee V Chad Gable match

And John Cena appears

Sigh long segment time

PET MCAFEE RETURN

oh Cena's still pissy

"No one's safe. Last week I put a clueless kid on blast. He's poor pathetic face was everywhere. WWE POSTED IT! AND YOU ALL LOVED IT" - John Cena

"Fuck you Cena" chants

"Nice to know they say that over here too" - Pat McAfee

"You are the ones who love to watch and rewatch and meme a poor defenseless little kid getting destroyed." - John Cena

"Shut the fuck up" chants

OoOoO spinner belt mention

HES GONNA RUIN WRESTLING!?!?

NOT FOR EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!

HES GONNA TAKE THE BELT FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!

CODY RHODES!!!! ADRENALINE IN MY SOUL EVERY THOUGHT OUT OF CONTROL

"But you have made a massive mistake, and the mistake was not hitting me upside the head with this at the Elimination Chamber. No, no, no. The mistake was saying what you just said in front of these lovely people while I was in the building" - Cody Rhodes

OOOOO CODY PLACED THE BELT ON THE MAT

HE UNBUTTONED HIS SHIRT TOO HIS TITTIES ARE OUT LIKE A WHORE

CODYS CHALLENGING HIM

THE GIRLS ARE FIGHTING?????

Nvm John Cena's running

NVM he's coming back

welp nvm he's leaving

OH SHIT CODY PROMISED CENA WOULD LEAVE EMPTY HANDED

Recap of last week's Judgement Day beef and the main event

Oh it's a Penta V Bron Breakker for the intercontinental title

MAIN EVENT JEY USO YEET YEET

"Missed you last week" "I was doing it at home brother" - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

JIMMY USO!!!!!

PAT MCAFEE'S IN A KILT

"I hope you got something underneath that kilt" "I'm going old-school. I might bruise my ankles, brother" - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

"It's good to see you in a kilt. I can't wait to tell the story to everyone later on today about how this kilt came about" "ITS THE REAL DEAL BROTHER. THE KINGS OF THE KILT MAKERS" "I gotta get back up to beat with you. I missed you last week" "YEET, YEET, YEET, YEET" - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

"Waller and Theory have not fared well one-to-one action against Jey Uso in recent weeks. Maybe They'll have better luck in Tag Team action" "I don't think these guys fared well in much. As of late or ever" - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

THE USOS V A-TOWN DOWN UNDER

Damn they're killing Jimmy

THE USOS WIN!!!!!

now where Gunther? the sneaky bastard?

GUNTHER TOOK JIMMY OUT

HE JUMPED JEY

THE GIRLS ARE FIGHTING

Jey trips trying to do a spear

GUNTHER TAKES OVER

GUNTHER RUNS AS JIMMY PULLS A STEEL CHAIR

Judgement Day segment

Oh they're gonna put try to get Penta without Fin's approval

EL GRANDE AMERICANO!!!!

WE'RE FINALLY GETING LORE FOR THE MYSTERIOS LUCHADOR

FROM THE GULF OF AMERICA!?!?!

HE WAS BLACKBALLED????

OH NO CHAD GABLES SICK AND HES GOT A LEGIT NOTE

A DRAGON LEE V EL GRANDE AMERICANO?!?!

"Gable should be wearing a mask and I don't mean a luchador mask" "I'm worried about him. Maybe get some medicine" - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

LYRA VALKYRIA V RAQUEL RODRIGUEZ

"Did you see the Liv a Lisa?" "I did see that" "Presented to her in Italy" "There's a lot with all these judgement day members" "The Mona Liva or whatever she called it." "You butchered it" "You do realize that Liva Lisa sounds a lot better than Mona Liva?" "I mean touché brother. Get you in that writer's room" -Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

LYRA VALKYRIA WINS!!!

LIV AND RAQUEL JUMP LYRA

BAYLEY TO THE RESCUE

OH SHIT WE'RE GONNA FIGURE OUT WHATS GONNA HAPPEN WITH THE WOMENS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH AT WRESTLEMANIA

THE USOS SEGMENT

oh no Jimmy's being unsupportive

Nvm he's pushing Jey to do better

OH SHIT JIMMYS GONNA JUMP GUNTHER

A JIMMY USO V GUNTHER THE RING GENERAL MATCH

"You? Well sure, as long as you don't trip and fall like your brother" - GUNTHER

JIMMY BITCH SLAPPED GUNTHER!!!!

ADAM PEARCE OFFICIALLY SAID THE WRESTLEMANIA MATCH IS GOING TO BE IYO SKY V BIANCA BELAIR

IYO SKY!!!!

OH IYO SKY WANTED BOTH OF THEM!!!

BIANCA BELAIR APPEARS!!!!

AND SHE DOESNT WANT THE TRIPLE MATCH

RHEA RIPLEY!!!!! oh that red top~

THEY'RE DISRESPECTING IYO AGAIN

Adam Pearce has a solution

wait so an Iyo sky V Rhea Ripley next week, whose winner will face Bianca Belair at WrestleMania

PENTA!!!

OoOoO Dom proposed the idea of joining Judgement Day to Penta

WAR RAIDS PROMO

EUGH THE NEW DAY ARE ASKING FOR A MATCH AT WRESTLEMANIA

"Take your blood pressure medication" " I WILL! BRING ME A GLASS OF WATER" - Xavier Woods and Adam Pearce

BIANCA'S GOING TO BE THE REFEREE FOR THE IYO SKY V RHEA RIPLEY MATCH

DRAGON LEE V EL GRANDE AMERICANO

"Dragon Lee, a true luchador"  "taking on..." "whatever this is 😒" "this is El Grande Americano. I prefer Venti myself, but you saw the package earlier. Very accomplished" - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee

Oh I love El Grande Americano's outfit

"He's also a fish from a body of water." "I don't even know what to say. I tried to do a lot of research on this gentleman. We saw that piece about him earlier on, he was supposed to be this legendary luchador. I found nothing about himself anywhere." "The thing about it is it certainly could be mistaken for Chad Gable." "Dude, Google has everything. They've never even heard of this guy" "That because he's so underground" - Pat McAfee and Michael Cole

OMG HE DOES THE "THANK YEW" GIMIC IN SPANISH!!!!!  HES DEFINITELY CHAD GABLE CHAD GABLE DEFINITELY TOOK THAT FROM HIM

"El Grande Americano's been wrestling underground. Has to be, that why we can't learn anything about him. Never seen him before" - Pat McAfee

"Going to have to change the name back to the Gulf of Mexico after this" - Michael Cole

EL GRANDE AMERICANO PULLS OFF DRAGON LEES MASK!!!!

DRAGON LEE TAPS OUT

CHAD GABLE EL GRANDE AMERICANO WINS!!!! A DEBUT WIN!!!!

"I'll tell you what, he keeps going like this, he's on the fast track to the Hall Of Fame. Underground God now getting a chance to do it in front of 10,900+" "You're not really buying this, right? That was a Chad Gable moonsault and a Chad Gable ankle lock here tonight. I hope Chad gets better if he's indeed sick" - Pat McAfee and Michael Cole

Recap of the Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and CM Punk Smackdown segment

CM PUNK!!!!!! LOOK IN MY EYESSSS WHAT DO YOU SEE?? THE CULT OF PERSONALITY!!!!

HES HERE TO ANGRY YAP

Oh shit a contract signing for WrestleMania this Friday

"I brought you into this business. I cannot wait to be the man that takes you out of it" - CM Punk

Oh Logan Paul gonna fight AJ Styles next week

SOCCER MOM HAIRCUT?? NAH AJ better beat his ass

Bron Breakker V Penta

BREAKKER DRIVED PENTA INTO THE ANNOUNCE TABLE

Sigh Carlito and Dom appear for reasons

DOM DISTRACTION AND CARLITO INTERFERENCE

welp Carlito tried

DOMS JUST JUMPING BREAKKER

PENTA GETS DISQUALIFIED CUZ OF JUDGEMENT DAY

BRON BREAKKER WIN!!! BY TECHNICALITY

FINN BALOR WITH A STEEL CHAIR TO HELP DOM

DOM OFFERS THE CHAIR TO PENTA IN AN ATTEMPT TO GET HIM TO JOING JUDGEMENT DAY

DOM GETS KICKED BY PENTA

FINN BALOR STUCK CLEANING UP AFTER DOM'S MESS

[hoffstrap-yuri]

Passing Through

ao3 // masterlist

*Summary: “Sir… I’m afraid we’re going to have to ask you to turn around, and drop your pants.” Hoffman didn't think this situation could get any worse. (Saw AU for the Mule 2014)

*Rating: M for Mature Audiences

*Content/Tags: Crack, Crack Treated Seriously, AU, Alternate Universe, Drugs, Drug Trafficking, Crime

*Status: Chapter 1 of 3/COMPLETE. Chapter 2 can be found here. Chapter 3 can be found here.

Author's Note: So uhhh this won't be as graphic as The Mule 2014 but it's still an AU based on the movie. This is still a fucking nasty idea that my friend @cubestrahm wanted to see come to fruition so badly and I'd do anything for her <3

“Sir… I’m afraid we’re going to have to ask you to turn around, and drop your pants.” A security agent cleared his throat. The man sighed as he was stripped of any sense of shame and stripped for the two agents. The agents behind him silently pantomimed ‘rock, paper, scissors’ over who was going to examine the man’s ass and see if in fact he was being used as a mule. The man clearly lost and moved closer to their detainee. He grabbed a glove and started to probe the other man. “Nothing.”

“Right. So can I go?” The man finally said, pulling his pants back up.

“Well… no.” The agent replied, “Wait here with Officer Martinez.”

“Fine.” He sighed in response. The female officer stood across from him in the holding room as he crossed his arms in front of his chest. John was going to kill him if this took any longer. The brand new clock hanging just over the door frame told him it was 3:23. He and Amanda were supposed to meet John’s driver at the airport at 3:09. He ran his hand through his hair as he waited in silence with this worker. The door opened and rather than letting him go free, there were two more serious looking agents. Another woman and man duo. The woman approached him and said sternly,

“Mark Hoffman, you’re under arrest for the transportation of illegal substances into the United States.” She slapped his wrist with handcuffs and pulled him out to a separate interrogation room. This was definitely going to take longer than a few minutes.

---

Mark Hoffman hadn’t wanted to do this. He didn’t just wake up one day and had an urge to fill his stomach up with a crap ton of cocaine filled condoms just for shits and giggles. The real reason he was doing it was simple. He’d gotten involved with one of John Kramer’s little sidekicks, Amanda. The girl had a mouth on her and an attitude to match. When Mark was about to pick her up she spat in his face and tried leaving a size seven boot mark on the beat cop’s face. He was able to restrain her, but the girl screamed, kicked and bit at Mark’s direction like a feral animal afraid to be put down. He kept a foot firm on the back of her neck as he managed to wrestle away a wallet from her pocket that had her real id on her. She wasn’t even thirty. Just a couple of months younger than his own sister, Angelina. He knew that he should book her. Hell some people in his department might add on a resisting arrest and assault of a police officer just to really stick it to the woman. He pulled her back up onto her feet, only for her to charge him blindly. The wind got knocked out of him as his back made contact with a brick wall. He took his hands and placed them firmly on her shoulders.

“Stop. I’m not going to arrest you. If you just fucking calm down…” He told her as she tried to fight free from his hands. She stopped long enough to hear the morally dubious cop out.

“What the hell do you want from me then, huh? You want me to jerk you off?” She snarled at him

“No. Just promise me you’ll go to rehab.”

“It can’t be that easy.” She rolled her eyes and laughed at him

“It’s that easy. I’ll take you right now to a clinic.”

“Fine.” She huffed as Hoffman pulled her into his squad car. He pulled up to a clinic he was familiar with and opened the door for her. She crawled out from the back and waited outside for a second while he got back into his car. With a heavy sigh, she trudged towards the door and that was the last that Hoffman thought he’d ever see of her. Clearly the lesson didn’t stick.

---

“Mark Hoffman. Police…”

“Detective.” Mark piped up

“… Detective.” The man corrected himself. He couldn’t hide the rolling of his eyes as the ‘detective’ insisted upon the distinction between his role and that of a beat cop. “Anyway, I’m Agent Peter Strahm, and this is my partner Lindsey Perez. We’ve got your file here. Graduated from police academy at 20… been at your precinct your whole career. Why the hell would you risk all that just to smuggle some fucking drugs into the country?”

“You’re operating on the assumption that I’m carrying drugs on me.”

“Well we’ve already searched your luggage, and there wasn’t anything there…” The female agent started. While her partner stayed seated across from Hoffman, she paced the room behind him like a shark circling its kill. Hoffman was all too familiar with the tactic as an officer of the law.

“Again. You’re operating under the assumption that I am acting as a drug mule. The only problem with your assumption is… that you’re entirely wrong.” Hoffman shrugged. He saw the blood veins starting to pop out of the male agent’s forehead before he took a deep breath.

“Listen.” He said, with one last appeal at Hoffman’s sense of justice. “Just tell us now, you might get slapped on the wrist. Five to ten years if you rat out the person you’re carrying for.”

“I would, if I had an inkling what you were talking about.” Hoffman replied. Strahm threw his hands up in the air and stepped out into the hallway, probably to call his and Perez’s supervisor. Perez leaned in against the table as her partner stood on the other side of the wall. Not a word was exchanged between the two of them until Strahm stepped back into the room.

“Legal precedence says we’re allowed to detain you for up to 4 days or until you’ve emptied your bowels twice. Or you could just submit to an x-ray scan.”

“And my answer will be the same as it was in security, I don’t want a scan.”

“Fine. Then you’ll be joining us in a nice little hotel room.” Strahm slapped the cuffs back onto Hoffman’s wrists and walked around the table to pull the suspect up onto his feet.

“Kinky.” Mark muttered under his breath. The two detectives looked at him, but neither managed to pick up what he had said. They paraded him out of the airport proper and shoved him into a shitty Chevy caprice, Agent Strahm’s if Mark had to take a wild stab in the dark. He watched out the window as five different lanes of traffic merged down into three then two to get them out of the airport. They drove approximately five miles from the airport and pulled into a second-rate hotel’s parking lot. Lindsey tucked Hoffman’s head under the door frame as she pulled him out and the agents dragged him up to a room somewhere in the middle of the hotel. From a glance, Hoffman saw no one but federal agents in the hallways, they probably bought out this floor to keep him from escaping in the dead of night. Strahm opened the door for Hoffman before shoving the bulkier man into the room. It was bare-bones. A bed, a bathroom, and a TV. Everything a businessman could need between flights out of town. Lindsey manhandled him in a similar fashion when a third agent showed up behind the two of them and sat down in the chair across from Mark’s bed.

“Here’s the rules. Either you stay here for four days straight under constant surveillance by either Perez, Agent Erickson, or myself or you submit to an x-ray exam. Whichever one comes first.” Strahm explained. “Get comfortable. You’re going to lose your mind if you don’t find someway to occupy your time here.”

“Thanks for the tip, counselor.” Hoffman rolled his eyes at the special agent’s fake pleasantries.

“If you need to use the bathroom, you tell Agent Erickson. If you need food, Erickson.” Peter continued. Hoffman opened his mouth to say something sarcastic, but kept it shut when he realized it probably wouldn’t look good in a court case if he had mouthed off to the agent more than he had already had. He honestly thought, ‘and if I need a hand job, Erickson’ was pretty funny in his head. If only Strahm had any sense of humor. He slid back onto the bed and stared up at the ceiling of his room. So this would be his cell for the next half a week. He only hope he could hold in the drugs long enough to get through these next four days.

---

“I’m home.” Hoffman kicked his shoes off by the door, yelling into the house. His calls go unanswered for a moment, but then his sister shouted something. “I can’t hear you, Ang.”

“I said I’m in here!” She yelled back. He followed her voice and found her in the process of cleaning her room. “Hi Mark.”

“Hi Ang.” He leaned against the door frame before asking her, “What are you up to?”

“Just reorganizing my closet.” A sweater flew past his face for emphasis on his sister’s point.

“I see. What do you want for dinner?”

“Anything’s fine.” She hummed to a tune rotating through her mental library. “Oh by the way…”

“Yeah?”

“Some guy stopped by earlier. Said you knew someone named Amanda and that she had work for you?”

“I don’t know an ‘Amanda’.” He played coy, even though he vividly remembered the addict he’d put into rehab. Or so he thought. What kind of ‘work’ did she have for him? “Thanks for taking that.”

“You’re welcome. He left a tape player, it should be on the kitchen table.”

“I’ll check it out.” He turned on his heels back to the kitchen and grabbed the player off the table to listen.

“Hello Detective.” A low voice started. Even in her deepest imitation of a man’s voice, Amanda couldn’t have recorded this. “You don’t know me, but I am the man who Amanda works for. I’m sure you and your co-workers have been eager to put a stop to my empire. You took pity on Amanda and for that I thank you, however ‘thanks’ doesn’t run a business. Meet with her tomorrow at 2 at the bar around the corner from your precinct to discuss the work you’ll be doing for me. You might ask yourself ‘Why would I work for a criminal when I’m a man of the law?’ and I will tell you right now. It’s your love for you sister. The only tether you have to this world. I will break said tether if you decide that you think you’re better than me and try to avoid my job I’ve given to you.” Like that the tape stopped. Mark flipped it over just to make sure there wasn’t anything else recorded on the opposite side of the tape. Something that could pinpoint where this asshole was and take him in before the meeting was supposed to take place but he listened in vain. He slide the player away from him and paced the kitchen. He tried to think of something he could do that would prevent Angie from being a causality in his lapse in judgment, now coming back to bite him in the ass. He ran his fingers through his hair before Angie interrupted his thoughts in person this time,

“It can’t be that hard to figure out what pizza shop you want to order from tonight.” She smiled at him

“Pick whichever one you want.” He sighed

“You okay?”

“Yeah. Rough day at work.” He lied to her. The less she knew about this whole deal the better.

“Okay. I’ll call in the order, but you’re driving to get it.” She laughed

“That’s fine.” He shrugged, trying to bask in the warmth of her presence and calm himself down. The rest of the night was uneventful, but Mark didn’t get a bit of sleep. As he was told, he showed up to the bar. There was no one in the bar except Amanda. She looked oddly calm.

“Detective.” Her expression was blank… he didn’t know if that was an improvement over the feral animal he ‘saved’ that day or if this was just some lobotomized version of the woman.

“Just get to the point. What does your guy need from me?”

“John. His name is John.” She spit at him. The pieces started falling into place in Hoffman’s mind. Her boss was John Fucking Kramer. His body went frigid. His whole department had been searching for the man for at least five years, and now this man had Hoffman in his sights. Worst than that, Angie was in the crossfire because of him and his compassion for someone that reminded him a bit too much of his sister.

“Fucking hell” were the only words that he was able to sputter out.

“Yeah.” Her expression turned into a crooked smile as she saw the wheels spinning in the detective’s head.

“What does John want from me?”

“Simple. You’re coming with me to Thailand and we’re bringing back drugs for John.” She told him like it was a trip to the corner store.

“Are you two fucking insane? I don’t even have a passport…”

“Already taken care of.” She slipped a royal blue document from her pants pocket and shoved it into Mark’s hand

“How did you get my info to forge this?”

“It’s amazing what you can find out with just a badge number, Detective.” She started to walk away from him

“Wait.” He turned towards her. She stopped and faced him once more, crossing her arms in front of her. “When are we going?”

“Next week. Meet me here.”

“Fine.” He grumbled and went back to work like that whole exchange hadn’t happened

---

The trip was uneventful. Many people in his life had told Mark that he should visit Thailand one day. He’d love the beaches, the food, the culture… and he got none of that. Amanda dragged his ass at butt o’clock in the morning to the supplier, making him wait for what felt like hours in five minutes as she grabbed a duffel bag’s worth of cocaine. She took him back to the hotel and explained how he was going to smuggle the cocaine back into the States. She spent nearly 3 hours tying up condoms full of the drugs and placed it before Mark. He only half-listened to the woman before her hand was on his thick throat and the other was forcing down the first balloon through his mouth. He nearly choked on the foreign intrusion before mouthing off to her.

“You could have warned me first.”

“Call it a right of passage. Open back up.” Her grip stayed firm on his neck. He begrudgingly opened his lips up for her and she took a handful this time and pushed it into his mouth. His throat had never hurt so badly. Tears escaped from the corners of his eyes until it was finally over. He ran a hand over his stomach, it didn’t feel like there was anything inside of him. Would they all just burst out of him at once like a chest buster with one wrong breath? “And this….” Amanda shook a nondescript bottle at him before taking out four pills. Rather than fight it again he swallowed them. “That should block you up for long enough… but just in case your fat ass goes through it faster…” Another four pills went down the hatch. He barely had time to recover before the woman shoved his passport into his hand and threw his bags at him. They got onto the plane without a word spoken between them, and Amanda all but abandoned him during security. They had a set timeline that they needed to get to John’s car by. When his bag didn’t show up and he looked at his watch. He didn’t have time to wait, so he booked it through security. Just as he thought he was in the clear was when the illusion all came crashing down. And that was why he was here now.

[rtreyradio]

Cinemablend: John Cena Shockingly Turned Heel, And I Think That’s Bad News For Cody Rhodes’ Future As WWE Champion

By Mack Rawden published March 2, 2025

After decades of calling for John Cena to take his wrestling persona to a darker place, most fans had come to terms with the fact that the legend would never turn heel. He was just too beloved by children, too tied into the Make A Wish foundation and too much of a company mascot to even pretend to be bad. After staying a good guy for more than twenty years, it’s not like he’d suddenly become a villain during his goodwill retirement tour, right?

Apparently wrong. Last night, John Cena shocked everyone in the Rogers Centre and millions of people watching around the world when he kicked Cody Rhodes in his American Nightmares, and in the sober reality of Sunday morning, it’s hard not to feel this whole heel turn is bad news for Cody Rhodes’ longevity as WWE champion.

Before we get into what this means for Rhodes, however, let’s brag about Cena for a minute. The Hollywood A-lister and pop culture figure has built a reputation over the last few decades for being a good guy. As many of his peers in the wrestling industry evolved their characters and waffled back and forth between periods as a good guy and periods as a bad guy, Cena just kept preaching Hustle, Loyalty and Respect. His relentless enthusiasm and positivity were always a huge hit with children and a segment of the larger WWE fanbase, but that lack of evolution also made him a target for another segment of the fans who got sick of the lack of character development.

Because of that split, Cena spent most of the prime of his wrestling career in this odd limbo. Some cheered him like a prime Hulk Hogan and some booed him like an Attitude Era Vince McMahon. He was the baby face’s baby face, so relentlessly a good guy doing the right thing in every situation that it drove some fans crazy. A few times, he flirted with perhaps becoming a bad guy. We now know there were plenty of conversations behind the scenes. Plans were even put in place for him to front a relaunched nWo as a villain, but it never happened.

He eventually went to Hollywood full-time and a funny thing happened. During his lengthy absences, even his biggest haters started to miss him to the point where each time he’s come back, the receptions have just gotten louder and louder. Over the last year or two, he’s been getting huge ovations from almost everyone, the type of unrelenting positivity he desperately wanted during those years where fans were more split. When he announced his retirement tour, fans openly talked about how it’ll be nice to finally all get on the same page and cheer for him as one united group, and yet, here we are.

You know how you can tell John Cena loves the wrestling business? Because he just took a massive risk. Instead of collecting fat paychecks, selling tons of t-shirts and going out with a nostalgic round of applause, he’s decided to tell a new and potentially compelling story by doing something he never really did in his career (at least apart from when he was first trying to make it). It’s really exciting, and I can’t wait to see how the rest of the story plays out.

We know Cena and Cody Rhodes will be facing each other at WrestleMania, but what story beats Triple H and the writers are going to try to hit between now and then is anyone’s guess. A few months ago, I was pretty convinced these two would face each other at 'Mania but Cody would turn heel ahead of the match.

I would imagine The Rock is going to play a major role, as Cena has assumedly become his corporate champion. As a member of TKO’s Board Of Directors, The Rock has tremendous behind the scenes power, and WWE plays into that with its onscreen product and will assumedly do so again, with The Final Boss likely directing Cena to make Cody and everyone else’s life a challenge between now and ‘Mania.

Obviously, we don’t know what is going to happen at WrestleMania, but we need to acknowledge that there is now a very high likelihood Cody is going to lose his Championship. The wrestling game is all about momentum. The goal is to tell hot stories, and most of the time with hot characters, the best way to keep them hot is to have them win.

John Cena just went heel for the first time in over two decades, and the entire wrestling world is on the edge of its seat wondering how this is going to play out. I don’t have the answers, but I think whatever story John Cena is going to tell is going to be a lot more interesting if he’s the WWE Champion while telling it.

So, with all due respect to Cody Rhodes, it's time for you to lose the WWE Championship. One of the biggest stars in the history of this business just took a huge creative risk, and he needs to be rewarded by winning the high profile match that comes after it and in doing so, get the chance to write another chapter as the face of WWE.

[hebuiltfive]

Hellooo!

How about our boy Scotty and #22?

Hellooo! Thank you for the ask! My words were not wording, so I hope this is okay and makes sense (I did read it back, but I don't think my brain is firing properly). Also I wasn't sure how to end it so apologies for the sudden finish! We're travelling back in time for some Wee!Tracys for this one!

(#22: You've Got Something On Your Face from 30 Gentle Prompts)

Pie

Time-keeping was a skill that little Scott was very proud of having. The watch Jeff had bought him for his recently passed ninth birthday had been a cherished present and Scott had worn it with every outfit, even when the bright blue of the watch didn’t exactly match the attire chosen. He didn’t care. It helped him keep track of time which, as he often pointed out to his younger siblings, was a very important thing to do.

Hence why Scott became irate this morning.

Before bed, he had asked his father all the necessary questions regarding how long it would take to drive out to the track and what time would be best for him to set his alarm. Jeff had helped him navigate the itinerary before tucking him in for the night and wrestling with Lucille over Scott not needing to be so organised at the tender age of nine. Scott had heard part of their conversation, but their words had soon drowned out as sleep claimed him.

When he had woken in the morning, he was on time and raring to go. His bag had been packed the night before so all he had to worry about was getting ready to leave, but that was when it all went wrong.

He strolled downstairs, his bag grasped excitedly in his hand, prepared to see his father waiting to drive him over to the club… Only Jeff wasn’t in the living room. He wasn’t on the front porch and, when Scott traipsed through to the kitchen, he noticed he wasn’t there either.

Virgil was sat at the table. In one hand, he held a spoon that was dripping with milk and cereal. In the other, he held an orange coloured crayon, which currently held more of his attention. When Scott entered, Virgil’s head lifted.

“Dad had to go over to Grandpa’s. Something had happened.”

Scott’s heart sunk. “What? What happened?”

“Nothing bad!” Virgil quickly amended at the look of dread on his older brother’s face. “Grandpa said it was urgent though, and Dad said he would have been back by now.”

Scott slammed his bag onto the table before lifting himself into one of the dining chairs with a huff.

Virgil steadied his bowl of breakfast with a tut. “Careful! You’ll ruin my homework!”

“What are you working on?” Scott asked, peering over the box of cereal to try and make out what Virgil had been colouring. Being on the opposite side of the table, it took Scott a minute to decipher the picture. “Is that a pigeon?”

“No! We’re studying regional birds. This is the titmouse.” He held up the orange colour proudly. “He has some orange around his sides!”

“Orange is boring. You should colour it blue.”

“It wouldn’t be accurate.”

“So? It would look cooler.”

Virgil rolled his eyes, throwing over another sheet of paper towards Scott. It landed upside down but, when Scott flipped it over, he noticed an already completed picture.

“That’s a bluejay.” Virgil explained as Scott’s eyes widened.

“I’ve seen these! There were some in one of the parks when me and Dad visited Wichita last month.”

“You can keep it.”

Scott’s eyes tore away from the perfectly coloured in picture — honestly, Virgil had a real talent for his art projects — to glance back at his brother. “What about your homework?”

“I only needed to do one, but I got inspired so I did them all. You can keep that one.”

Before he could utter his thanks aloud, Lucille walked into the kitchen with John trailing behind her. When she caught sight of Scott, he expression saddened. “Scott, honey, I’m so sorry but you might have to join the afternoon class today. Your dad did say he’d be back by now but…”

“It’s alright. Virgil coloured me in a bird.” Scott held up the picture for his mother to see.

“That’s lovely, sweetie.” She smiled fondly and then ruffled his hair. “Now, breakfast?”

Scott frowned. “But what if dad gets home when I’m eating?”

“You shouldn’t really start the day without breakfast, Scot. What about some cereal, like Virgil? Or I could make you some pancakes if you’d prefer.”

A dull thud and then the cries of a toddler came from the next room. Lucille ran out to check on Gordon before she noticed Scott’s grimace at her suggestions.

“Mommy is right, Scotty.” Virgil said, as John clambered up onto one of the chairs to join his older brothers. “Food is good.”

Scott rolled his eyes. He wasn’t particularly hungry and he hadn’t planned on having anything before his first day of training. Though he wouldn’t admit it to any of them, he had been feeling anxious all night. His sports teacher had signed him up for the track club after claiming he saw potential in Scott, and Scott had been excited to start ever since he’d agreed to give the club a go, but now the day had approached, he was nothing but nervous. Eating was the last thing on his mind.

“I’m not hungry.”

“Just have something small.” Virgil offered his bowl. “You can have the rest of mine, if you’d like?”

Scott shook his head. Cereal, especially the kind that was now soggy from being left in the milk too long, was the least appealing option. He jumped off the chair and scoured the kitchen. Both Virgil and John watched him curiously as he opened cupboards and debated between boxes and tins. Eventually, during his perusal of the refrigerator, he caught sight of the remainder of Mom’s freshly made apple pie and his eye brightened.

He took the pie from the shelf and placed it on the counter. Once he retrieved a clean plate from one of the cupboards, Scott carefully sliced himself a piece. He was acutely aware of his two brothers staring at him. Smugly, he returned the rest of the pie to the fridge and then took his seat at the table again.

“That isn’t breakfast!” Virgil claimed as Scott began to tuck into the pie.

“Mom said I had to eat. This is what I want to eat.”

“But it isn’t healthy!”

Scott’s eyes flitted from Virgil’s horrified expression to John’s curious gaze. He shrugged. “It tastes good though.”

“Mommy said pie is for the puds.” John frowned, finally understanding what his older brother had chosen to do and deciding to show he was unhappy about it. “Not morning time!”

Another couple of bites of pie were taken and Scott rolled his eyes. “It’s fine, Johnny. Mom won’t know. I’ll eat it really fast, look!”

But John had already jumped down from the table and had left the kitchen. 

Unfazed, Scott continued to eat at a hurried pace. Whilst he technically didn’t do anything wrong by helping himself to the apple pie, he didn’t fancy having to explain his choices to Lucille and so wanted to be rid of any evidence before she returned.

“Ew, Scott, slow down! You’re getting crumbs everywhere!”

“Stop bein’ such a baby, ‘Gil.” He involuntary spat more crumbs everywhere, causing Virgil to cover his colouring to avoid the sheet getting tainted.

It took Scott no less than a few minutes to finish the plate. He grinned widely. “See? Nothing to worry about!”

Virgil clamped a hand over his mouth as the front door to the ranch clicked open and Jeff’s voice boomed through to them.

“Scotty? Ready to go?”

With furrowed brows of confusion at his younger brother’s obvious amusement, Scott hopped off the dining chair. The pie sat heavy in his stomach as he jumped, the nervousness beginning to set back in again, but he pushed it aside.

Just as Scott was about to run through to greet Jeff, Lucille appeared from the next room. She stopped him with a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Slow down. You’ll cause an accident— Oh, Scotty.”

There was a glint of amusement in her eyes that matched Virgil’s quiet giggles.

Scott frowned. “What?”

“What have I told you about leaving those pies for pudding, not for breakfast?”

His cheeks warmed. “I didn’t…”

“No? So why is your little face covered in the red sauce and crumbs?”

His mother’s fingers carefully wiped at the corners of his mouth as she asked him her question. There was no accusatory tone, only soft delight.

Scott batted her fingers away. How embarrassing! “Mom! Stop! It’s fine! I’m already late!”

Behind him, Virgil was finding it hard to contain his chuckles. 

Scott offered him a glare, finally realising what his younger brother had found so funny. “You didn’t even tell me!”

“You would have found out eventually! That’s what happens when you eat something you’re not supposed to, Scotty.”

“Boys.” Jeff stood behind his wife in the doorway. “No fighting.”

“We wasn’t fighting.” Virgil clarified, his smile still large and beaming despite his inaccurate phrasing.

“We were about to.” Scott mumbled before being ushered out of the kitchen by Lucille.

Jeff took Scott’s shoulders to direct him through to the porch. “Come on, let’s get you going. We can make it for the afternoon class and… Scott, why are your clothes covered in pie crumbs?”

[sebeth]

Royal Rumble Marathon: 1992

The Royal Rumble marathon continues into 1992.

Spoilers for past Rumbles…

The undercard:

The Orient Express vs the New Foundation.

We see footage of the Mountie defeating Bret Hart. The commentators noted Bret wrestled with a high fever and is now out with the flu. I’m assuming Bret was sick as it would be an odd choice to change the title on a house show three days before Bret’s advertised match against the Mountie at the Royal Rumble. Roddy comes to Bret’s defense and will take his place against the now-champion Mountie.

The Mountie vs Roddy Piper. Roddy gets a huge reaction. Roddy wins his only WWF/E title when he defeats the Mountie.

The Bushwhackers (with Jamison) vs the Beverly Brothers (with the Genius). This re-watch marathon is bringing back memories of performers I haven’t thought of in decades. Jamison? That’s a blast from the past. If you’re too young to remember Jamison, think of a nerdy Rick Moreno type combined with a dash of the “Eugene” gimmick.

The Legion of Doom vs the Natural Disasters. Last year at the Rumble, Tugboat was helping Hogan fight Earthquake, now he calls himself Typhoon and has formed a tag team with Earthquake. I recommend the “Dark Side of the Ring” episode on Earthquake, it wasn’t “dark” per se but it was an interesting look at the man behind the gimmick. I never liked the Legion of Doom’s presentation in the WWF. The Road Warriors in the AWA/NWA were scary and intimidating. The team went to the WWF and their mystique/aura decreased by 75%.

Sean Mooney interviews a newly-turned Shawn Michaels with footage from the infamous Barbershop attack on Marty Janetty. The Rockers break-up has to be one of the all-time heel turns.

Hype vignettes before the Rumble: Flair, Savage, Sid Justice, Repo Man, Davey Boy, Jake Roberts, Undertaker, Hogan,

Marty Janetty and Nasty Boy Knobbs have lost their spots in the Royal Rumble due to injuries (though I think Janetty’s was in-storyline only as this took place a week after Shawn sent Marty through the barbershop window). Nikolai Volkoff and Haku will take their spots.

For the first time the Rumble has a point as this year the winner will become the WWF World heavyweight champion. If I remember correctly, the title was vacated/held up due to a Hogan/Undertaker storyline.

The entrants in order of appearance:

Davey Boy Smith

Ted DiBase (accompanied by Sherri Martel)

Ric Flair (accompanied by Mister Perfect)

Nasty Boy Sags

Haku

Shawn Michaels

“El Matador” Tito Santana (Such a lame gimmick for Tito)

The Barbarian

Kerry Von Erich

Repo Man (formerly known as Smash of Demolition) It’s a silly gimmick but I love it

Greg “The Hammer” Valentine

Nikolai Volkoff

Big Boss Man

Hercules

“Rowdy” Roddy Piper

Jake “the Snake” Roberts

“Hacksaw” Jim Duggan

IRS (Mike Rotunda)

“Superfly” Jimmy Snuka

The Undertaker

“Macho Man” Randy Savage

The Berzerker (John Nord)

Virgil

Iron Sheik (referred to as Mustafa, accompanied by Adnan)

Rick “the Model” Martel

Hulk Hogan

Skinner (Steve Keirn)

Sgt Slaughter

Sid Justice

The Warlord (accompanied by Slick)

Flair wins the Rumble to become the new world champion. Hogan is the worst babyface ever – he has a hissy when Sid eliminates him from the Rumble, helps Flair eliminate Sid from the Rumble after his own elimination, and then chases Flair from the ring so he can’t celebrate his victory. Hogan continues to have a hissy at Sid. I never liked Hogan as a child and rewatching his storylines as an adult I can understand why all his “frends” eventually turn on him. He sucks!

Only the first two entrants received entrance music. Managers were allowed to accompany their charges to ringside but could not remain in the area (the WWF flip flops on whether managers could remain at ringside during the early years ).

First time Rumblers: Ric Flair, Nasty Boy Sags, IRS, Berzerker, Virgil, Skinner, Sid Justice

Highlights: Heenan having a panic attack the length of the Rumble over the possibility of Flair’s elimination, Flair’s performance, Savage accidentally eliminates himself but Taker throws him back in to continue in the Rumble. Flair sets a new endurance record for the Rumble

March to Wrestlemania: Hogan and Sid have their confrontation to set up their Wrestlemania match.

Wrestlers and others who have passed on: Gorilla Monsoon, Bobby Heenan, Howard Finkel, Mr. Fuji, Owen Hart, Jim Neidhart (we have six deceased individual within 5 minutes of the event starting), Lord Alfred Hayes, Roddy Piper, “The Genius” Lanny Poffo, Bushwhacker Butch, the Legion of Doom, Earthquake, Mean Gene Okerlund, “Mister Perfect” Curt Henning, Paul Bearer, Jack Tunney, Davey Boy Smith, Sherri Martel, Kerry Von Erich, Nikolai Volkoff, Big Boss Man, Hercules, Jimmy Snuka, Joey Marella, Virgil, Iron Sheik, Adnan.

Total number of deceased performers: 28, passing the previous Rumble by seven.

Rating: 8 out of 10

[blowflyfag]

Inside Wrestling: Volume 26, 2009

hotseat 

BATISTA

“It’s an honor to represent the business, and I take that seriously”

FOUR-TIME WWE World champion Batista is one of the federation’s most bankable superstars. Whether he’s squaring off with heels such as Chris Jericho or taking on a fellow fan favorite such as John Cena, he never loses his trademark intensity in the squared circle. 

Out of the ring, Batista remains one of the WWE’s most quietly effective promo men. His calm, confident demeanor conveys an image of someone who doesn’t need to shout to get a point across. While he’s generally soft-spoken in his delivery, Batista almost never holds back or sugarcoats his view about other wrestlers or the business in general. 

“The Animal” has recently taken a detour in his pursuit of a fifth title reign to renew hostilities with longtime rival Randy Orton. The two have been on opposite sides of the fence every since the breakup of Evolution, and whenever they’ve been on the same WWE brand or interpromotional pay-per-view event, a Batista-Orton clash never seems far away, even when they’re feuding with other wrestlers.

Batista recently took part in a bout that had special meaning to him, defeating Manu in the latter’s Raw debut. Batista, who was trained by Manu’s father, Wild Samoan Afa, has always paid homage to the role Afa played in his development. 

[“I suppose Orton thinks going after me makes a statement that he’s ready to push for another title shot. I’m ready for anything Orton does. We’ll see how ready he is for me.”]

Veteran wrestling reporter Matt Brock recently sat down with Batista to discuss his World championship aspirations, the feud with Orton, and the experience of opposing Manu. As usual, Batista gave straightforward answers to even the most probing of questions.

Q: Dave, it seems like your path and Randy Orton’s will keep crossing whenever you’re in the same place at the same time. Four years ago, there was a red hot debate as to whether you or he would be the bigger long=term star in WWE. In the time since then, I’d say you’ve had the upper hand. 

A: Without trying to sound arrogant about it, I’d agree. I’ve been more consistent, although it took me a while to recover from that torn triceps a few years ago. Orton has been a lot more up and down, while I’ve usually been either the guy on top or right in the title mix.

Q: Clearly he sees you as one of the main obstacles to another title reign. Do you feel the same?

A: I can only speak for myself. My own goal, of course, is to eventually regain the belt, and a healthy Randy Orton is always a threat to win the title. I suppose Orton thinks going after me makes a statement that he's ready to push for another title shot. I'm ready for anything Orton does. We’ll see how ready he is for me. 

Q:  Are you concerned at all that Orton has more to gain from a feud with you right now than you do with him? After all, you were fighting title matches with Chris Jericho when Orton provoked you. He needed to go through you, not the other way around. 

A: I hear you, but that’s not how I look at it. I’d run into Orton sooner or later, and I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge. So it might as well be now. 

[“To have staying power, you’ve got to prepare a little different for every opponent. There are adjustments to make. Flair told Orton that, and told me that.”]

In his most recent feud with Chris Jericho, Batista saw both the highs and lows of the business. One minute he was winning the World championship, and the very next he was losing it right back to Jericho. ]

Q: Even when you feuded with Triple-H and Ric Flair, the mutual respect level was obvious. That’s not necessarily the case with Orton, is it?

A: Let me put it this way. I’m a confident guy, and so is he. But here’s the difference. I was taught very early on, by Afa, Flair, and other guys, that it’s a privilege to wrestle and the best way to learn is by paying respect to the guys who’ve succeeded for years. I admire the true pros. I think anyone who has watched Randy Orton over the years knows that he thinks the world revolves around him, as if he was perfect in his first match, and steadily improved from there. 

Q: I’d like to try something here. I’ll give you my scouting report of Batista vs. Orton, and you can tell me where you agree or disagree with my assessment. 

A: No problem. Go ahead. 

Q: Let’s start with the no-brainers. He’s 28 and just entering his prime, and you’re 39, so he gets the edge in youth. You’ve got the edge in power in terms of technical ability and pure athleticism, I’d give him the edge. 

A: I’d agree with that. Yeah, for sure. He’s one of those guys who looks like he was born to wrestle professionally, even apart from his family background. I wasn't a natural at this, so I learned to compensate by using my size and strength to my advantage. I think I'm ok technically, and that took a whole, but my bread and butter is always going to be my power, and also my heart. No question. 

[Batista is willing to face opponents of any size, and his determination to win never changes. No matter if they are as massive as The Big Show (above) or as quick as Rey Mysterio Jr. (below), Batista has a custom strategy for every wrestler he faces.]

Q: In terms of intangibles in the ring, though, I’d give you the advantage. The biggest reason is that you seem to have more built-in respect for your opponent’s capabilities, whereas Orton is still so wrapped up in himself that he refuses to adjust.

A: Yeah, well, that’s something that goes back to Evolution. Everyone thought Triple-H, Flair, and me were just jealous when Randy became the youngest World champion in WWE history, but we all thought he won the belt a little too soon for his own good. To have staying power, you’ve got to prepare a little different for every opponent. THere are adjustments to make. Flair told Orton that, and told me that. Triple-H told both of us that, too. I took it seriously, Randy thought he knew better than the veterans. It’s only been very recently that I think Orton has reached that next level. To be honest with you, I think he’s better prepared for big matches now than he was then. If he stays healthy, I think he’ll be a more consistent wrestler than he used to be. Give credit where it’s due. He had a hell of a year before the collarbone injury. 

Q: Will you go right after the collarbone? 

A: Hell, yes. I’d be foolish not to do that, Matt. Everyone knows it, including Orton, so I’m not giving anything away to say that my game plan is to make him prove he’s going to hold up physically after the injury. I won’t do anything fancy, just stick with what works. I’ll bodyslam or armbar him every chance I get, lean on his neck and shoulders and force him to use his upper body whenever possible. He’s a big guy, but I’ve got the height and weight advantage on him. 

[If Batista wants to become a five-time world champion, he’s going to have to get through former Evolution partner Randy Orton. RKO has had his eyes on Batista, but he better be careful: This Animal doesn’t take kindly to being in anyone’s crosshairs.]

Q: We talked a little bit about making adjustments. You are more of a straight-up power wrestler than anything else, but what are some of the specific adjustments you have to make to go up against guys like Orton, Chris Jericho, or The Big Show? 

A: With the super-heavyweights like Big Show, you want to get them down on the mat and work their back or their legs. For a guy like me, it’s tempting to try to test my power, but going in, I know I might not be able to use my Batista bomb finisher or a bodyslam. Even if i do execute it, it saps a lot  of energy, so I’d better be sure the guy is totally set up for it. With guys who are smaller than me, it’s the opposite. I don’t want to get worn down, and I need to use my own size advantage. 

Q: Do you see a fifth world championship reign in your future?

A: That’s my plan, yeah. In this business, 39 isn’t old, so long as you stay healthy. I have a lot of good years left if I play my cards right. Right now, I feel really good. 

Q: Did it have any special meaning to you to be tabbed to go up against Afa’s son, Manu, in his first Raw match?

A: Definitely. He’s got a lot of potential, and it’s no secret that I admire the hell out of Afa  and owe him a debt of gratitude for giving me my own start. Afa knows that I wasn’t about to let up on Manu because of who his dad is. He would have been disappointed in me if i wrestled Manu any differently.

[“In this business, 39 isn’t old, so long as you stay healthy. I have a lot of good years left if i play my cards right.”]

Q: Who knows, maybe someday you’ll have a kid in wrestling and Manu can pay his respects to you by beating the hell out of your kid.

A: [Laughs] Yeah, that’s how it goes in this business. Trust me, Manu is going to be a real handful as he continues maturing in the ring.

Q: One final question. You’ve never really  had any pretensions of being a crossover star, yet you’ve appeared on Family Feud, MTV Cribs, and even appeared at the presidential convention to encourage people to vote. Does that sort of recognition ever surprise you?

A: Here’s how I look at it. I make a great living in this business, and I’m proud of what I do. I owe everything I have to wrestling, and that’s the truth. It’s an honor to represent the business, and I take that seriously.

[skylarmoon71]

Castiel (Supernatural/Grimm) - Short Story -Extra 2

Castiel has so many cute sides.

But what is most endearing is probably the way he looks at you sometimes when you’d kiss him suddenly. His eyes would gleam in a way that almost glowed. His lips would form a small smile and his cheeks would become a delicate flush, brows furrowed in curiosity and anticipation.

“Can I have another?”

You often found yourself gushing when he made the request. He was just too sweet. So of course you were obligated to fulfill his request and give him another little kiss to satisfy him.

Days on the job were funny. 

You get to see Castiel somewhat in an element that he’s familiar with. He’d told you he worked a number of cases with Dean back home. It’s a bit funny because Castiel’s serious persona worked great for some of the more tricky cases. His blunt way of questioning suspects made it easy to spot lies. 

Like today.

“Where were you last night Mr. Adona?”

The man shifted in his spot at the glare Castiel had directed right at him.

“I-I was just at home having a beer.”

“You’re lying.”

Adona stiffened in his seat and Castiel’s eyes were still narrowed, as if trying to intimidate the truth right out of him.

“F-Fine! I killed him okay! The bastard basically stole my wife and kid! What was I supposed to do?”

“You’ve been separated from your wife for three years and she wasn’t romantically involved with John Kleff. He was her therapist. She was trying to work through losing her home after you gambled away most of your money. You killed an innocent man because you were a jealous gambling drunk.”

You could tell that your words had struck him. The pain on his face was something he deserved. You never liked cases like these. Wrong place at the wrong time.

You slid the pad across the desk.

“Write it all down.”

He nodded, lowering his head in shame as he grabbed the pen.

It was tough, those situations where there were no real winners. Stepping out of the interrogation, you took the confession as some other officers grabbed him to be processed. Castiel was at your side, matching stride. It took maybe twenty minutes to get it all done. The second you were done with the paperwork, you dropped the stack on your desk. Castiel walked in and when you saw the small pack of marshmallows in his hand you smiled. He handed it to you, and you took it graciously. He sat down.

“I know it can be difficult, but I am always here if you need me.”

You appreciate that more than he realizes. For a while you’ve been without a partner and for longer you’ve been somewhat alone. Relationships were tough. It was hard to know who to trust, more so because of what you could see. Dragging someone into this without fully knowing what you were capable of, it always felt like a sort of deceit.

That’s why love was a bit out of your reach. It was also why Diana had been so adamant on helping you. Diana has always been perceptive, and you knew that under all the jokes and tricks, she must have realized just how lonely you were, how much it hurt to see other people have what you couldn’t. You’re forever grateful, she never lets you forget it either.

“You seem happier.”

You nod, leaning back in your seat.

“I’m very happy, you’re here after all.” You smiled at him and he returned it, shyly looking away.

“Thank you.”

You nod, giggling.

Another thing you absolutely loved is his bashful nature.

You’re very lucky.

The day seems to drag on, by the time your shift ends, you’re ready to just dive into Castiel’s arms. You thought you were the only one eager, but the second you both had made it outside he’d pretty much teleported you to his home. You staggered and he caught you.

You looked at him with a laugh.

“Castiel, we left my car at the precinct.”

He seemed to register that.

“My apologies.”

You just shook your head, giving him a kiss on the cheek.

“Let’s shower and pop in a movie.”

He was ready for that.

A nice soak in the bath together and some wrestling later and you were tucked on your couch under his arm enjoying the film.

“Oh, I almost forgot I have to stop by the spice shop tomorrow.”

Castiel hummed in response, fingers stroking your arm.

“You smell like lavender.” 

He tucked his head into your neck, inhaling softly and this time you were the one blushing. You had indeed changed your body wash but you didn’t think it was enough for him to tell the difference.

“Yeah, I changed it recently. Is it good? If the scent is too strong I can get another one.”

He started planting kisses along your skin and it became very obvious that the scent was indeed something he appreciated. His hand cupped your right breast and you nibbled on your lower lip. You could clearly see where the night was heading.

Some very strenuous activity a few hours later and you were off to the spice shop the following morning. Diana had texted you about grabbing a cup of coffee on the way for her. No doubt she was messing around there asking Rosalee about medicinal cures and such. She loved that stuff. It’s obvious why.

The second you entered she practically grabbed the drink.

“Wow, you’re welcome (Y/N), I really appreciate you going out of your way to get me that drink.”

Castiel’s brows furrow.

“Why are you speaking in the third person?”

His confused expression just made you and Diana laugh. She placed the cup down with a sarcastic bow and you rolled your eyes, glancing at the book she opened.

“What are you reading?”

She flipped the page.

“It’s a potion that protects you from the pheromones of Ziegevolk. Last week one of the triplets apparently got hit with some. Figured it could come in handy since you and Kelly are the only ones that are practically immune.” You smile.

“Someone sounds jealous.”

“You wish.”

She was smiling as she took another sip of your drink as you waited for Rosalee to get in from the back. You usually came by on your days off to help with the stock. When you turned, Castiel was already lifting a few boxes. He already knows the drill. You smile.

“Castiel, have I told you how good your butt looks when you’re lifting heavy items.”

The familiar flush returned to his cheeks.

“I don’t believe you have.”

His responses were also very entertaining. He placed the boxes down in their designated space, shuffling back to grab the next stack, still wearing a slight blush.

“You guys are so lovey dovey it’s almost sickening.” Diana complained.

“Just remember it’s all because of you.”

“Oh trust me, I’ll never forget.”

You were ready for the list of items she would request for setting you up with Castiel, but she straightened in her seat, looking over at the door, then to the side. When she stood it became apparent something was going on. You recognize that look.

“Diana, what’s wrong?”

The subtle amethyst glow ignited around her irises, her eyes looking around as if searching.

“Something is coming..”

You did not like the sound of that. 

Castiel paused, dropping his boxes.

“She is right.”

Castiel's eyes were now shining as well, the blue light very familiar. His angel blade slid right out of his sleeve, gripping the handle as he prepared.

Rosalee walked in that very moment and you drew your gun, just in case.

“Is something wrong?” Rosalee asked, concerned.

“I’m not sure…”

Diana sounds distracted, and you’re waiting for it, whatever it is. What you don’t expect is the sound of wings. Similar to what Castiel’s sounds like when he just vanishes. You all seem to turn at the male now standing in the room and Castiel relaxes.

“Michael.”

He places his blade away, so you take it as a sign that this person isn’t a threat. The light has left Diana's eyes as well.

“I apologize for my sudden appearance. Jack informed me that you had left our world. I was concerned so I came to..”

The way his words lagged at the end was confusing. He looked like he was staring at something. You followed his gaze, and it landed right on Diana who’s wearing a similarly dazed expression. Michael stepped towards her and she had yet to move, her lips were parted as if she couldn’t believe what she was seeing.

“You have wings..”

Her words didn’t make sense.

“Wings, what wings?” You asked. She looked back at you.

“Y-You can’t see them, they’re right there.” She pointed, but you still couldn’t make them out. Michael stopped when he was directly in front of her.

“You are very beautiful..” Michael spoke wistfully.

She giggled in a very un-Diana way, tucking a lock of her hair behind her ear. She was smiling and you could have been wrong, but you could have sworn she was blushing.

“What the..”

You were still trying to figure out what was going on.

Castiel slid over to your side.

“I believe my brother might be interested in courting your sister.” He whispered next to you. Even if he’d shouted it, it was clear that neither of them would hear. Rosalee looked excited at the little love connection.

“Brother, you came to speak with me.”

Michael blinked, as if remembering. He turned to Castiel.

“Yes I..I just wanted to ensure that you were…you were..”

He was having a hard time finding his train of thought, his gaze moving back to Diana who was smiling way too widely.

“Is this how we were when we first met?”

You couldn’t imagine acting so foolishly lovestruck.

“Definitely.” Diana responded without breaking eye contact from Michael.

“Since you’re here, maybe I can show you around our universe. That is if you have time to spare.” She batted her eyes and he nodded eagerly.

“Yes, I would like that very much. “

She smiled, holding out her hand.

“I’m Diana, it’s nice to meet you Michael.”

“You as well.”

He still seemed very much in a daze and Diana sent a wink in your direction.

You were starting to notice a pattern.

It’s clear that your bloodline was attracted to all things angel.

~Nick and Adalind’s House~

“Dad!!! I got a boyfriend!!”

Diana’s call was like a siren and Nick broke the corner with his gun drawn. Michael looked a bit confused.

“What do you mean boyfriend!! Were you hiding him all this time like your sister!?!”

You casually strolled into the room with Castiel and Adalind walked out of the kitchen with an apron around her waist.

“Why is your first response to us having partners so aggressive and why do you have your gun drawn!”

He shrugged.

“Just making sure she was safe.”

“She said boyfriend, not a serial killer Dad!!”

“I don’t see the difference.” He muttered.

Castiel rolled over to Michael’s side.

“You have nothing to worry about, this is a normal greeting in traditional human customs.”

You facepalm.

“Castiel, it really isn’t. My dad is just a psycho and very overprotective.”

Michael tilts his head, taking a step forward.

“I assure you no harm will come to your daughter while she’s in my care. If anyone were to hurt her I would rip their souls right out of their body and scatter the pieces to the edges of the earth.”

Your expression just went blank. Diana was grinning and Adalind looked a bit concerned.

“Another angel huh, guess I can make an exception.”

Nick holds out his hand.

“Welcome to the family.”

“DAD!!”

Your family needs serious help. 

[brightoakgame]

helloooo! so. we know jasper is a thrift store suit gym rat. but how stronk are the other ROs? I'm guessing John is at least a little buff? (is marybeth the strongest of em all???)

Hahaha! 💪 Let's see...

John: He has the body of a healthy hedonist, haha! As much as he enjoys food and drink, he also considers it the better part of his job description to take on handyman work as needed throughout the town: patching up a roof here, repairing a fence there, hauling bricks, fetching down kittens stuck in trees-- he's even up to performing light electrical / carpentry / plumbing work. John's love of people and making himself useful means his body is in pretty constant motion, so there's certainly plenty of muscle under there, even if it doesn't necessarily show at first glance.

Marybeth: (Sparrow interjects from well out of arm's reach: "Though she be but little, she is fierce!") Probably the least physically strong of the group-- but if she's really mad, that won't stop her from picking up Sparrow and throwing him across the room anyway (Sparrow beats a hasty retreat)

Patti: She grew up on a ranch, and took very active part in all the chores that entailed, from managing livestock to chopping wood to keeping the homestead farm running. While her current lifestyle is somewhat less physically demanding, prior to the events of the story she still spent at least a few afternoons each week helping her brother run the ranch. She could quite possibly take John in an arm-wrestling match-- assuming John did not have the foresight to run away or play dead in advance.

Sparrow: Not actually as fragile as he might look-- but that's all I'll say on that subject. 😶

Jasper: For those unaware, this Ask references a previous Ask where I revealed that Kit/the MC at one point describes Jasper-- to his face-- as "a grumpy gym rat in a thrift-store suit" (he's terribly offended by the attack on his suit, by the way-- it is period-appropriate). Because he considers it vital to prepare for any and all possible eventualities he might meet with, he holds himself to a rigid standard of physical conditioning, and engages in a number of physical disciplines to that end (distance running, circuit training, and Judo among them).

[christoplack]

Percy Pringle (Paul Bearer) shares a story of how just days before Christmas in 1990, his car was repossessed, and he was on the verge of bankruptcy until a call to Rick Rude changed his fate: "It was four days before Christmas, in Dallas, Texas. World Class Championship Wrestling had closed down a couple of years before, and The USWA was ready to move back to Tennessee to make room for the new Global Wrestling Federation at The Sportatorium. I found myself without a job, and on the verge of bankruptcy. My car had been repossessed, and we didn’t have the money for a Christmas tree, much less presents to put under one. It became painfully hard to look into the eyes of my ten-year old and three-year old sons. I knew in my heart that my wrestling career was over, and it was time to make a drastic change. I called my friend “Ravishing” Rick Rude, who was working for The WWF at the time. I told Rick exactly what was going on in my life, and that I planned on moving back home to Alabama and go back to work in the funeral industry. He was very sympathetic, and asked me not to make any quick decisions. In fact, Rick told me that he would call me back before the end of the day. When we talked again a couple of hours later, he said “Vince wants you to call him at home.” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. “Now, let me know what he has to say.” Rick concluded. I immediately fell back onto the sofa, dropping Vince McMahon’s telephone number to the floor. After about twenty minutes, I finally realized that it wasn’t a dream, and gathered the strength to dial Mr. McMahon’s private home number.“Where have you been all these years?” I remember Vince asking me, and after some small talk he told me that he would certainly like to meet with me after the holidays. The conversation still didn’t solve my Christmas problems, but I did have a sleepless night thinking that I may finally make it to “The Fed”. Early the next morning, my phone rang, and it was Mr. McMahon’s right hand man, Pat Patterson. Pat wanted to know if I could catch an early afternoon flight to New York, because Vince wanted to see me sooner than expected. Of course, my answer was positive, and he provided the flight information I needed. Things were happening so quickly, I could hardly digest them. Darkness was falling over the New York skyline as my American Airlines jet made it’s way into John F. Kennedy Airport. As I walked down the jet way, I spotted a well-dressed gentleman holding a card with my name written across it. I identified myself; he took my bag and told me to follow him to my limousine. “Limousine! Hell, I don’t even own a car.” I thought to myself. I actually felt like I was one of the Beverly Hillbillies as the limo driver took me through New York City and into Connecticut. Finally, we arrived at a majestic five-star hotel in Stamford, where I was whisked away to my penthouse suite. I wasn’t in the room five-minutes before my phone rang, and it was Pat Patterson. “Percy, Vince want to see you at 10 o’clock in the morning.” Pat told me, “I’ll pick you up at 9:45. In the meantime, you can eat, drink, and do anything you want to do. Just sign your name, it’s all courtesy of Titan Sports." To say that I was nervous is an understatement. I was scared to death, as I entered Vince McMahon’s office the next morning. Which, by the way, was my wedding anniversary, December 22, 1990. We talked about everything under the sun. It didn’t take long for Vince to make me feel right at home. As he looked over my resume, he began to laugh. I didn’t have a clue what was going on. “You have a degree in Mortuary Science?” Mr. McMahon questioned me, “This is just too much.” Little did I know that they were looking for a manger for The Undertaker, and Vince wasn’t aware that I had a background in Funeral Service, as well as being a wrestling manager. It was a match made in heaven, and when I left Titan Towers, I had a WWF contract in hand. We made it through the holidays; the WWF contract was a suitable anniversary gift for Dianna and myself. I went on the road in January 1991, as The WWF character known as Paul Bearer, managing The Undertaker."